Review: Adjacent But Only Just by Nichole Van

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Viola Brodure, gentlewoman and celebrated authoress, faces a personal dilemma suited for a novel—everyone wishes for her to make a love match with Ethan Penn-Leith, the famous Highland Poet. And by everyone, she means everyone—her father, her adoring readers, the gossip columnists, and her patron, the overbearing Duke of Kendall. Why, even Queen Victoria herself has given a nod of approval to the match. After all, the popular novelist and the famous poet are the perfect heroine and hero for their own love story. A literary dynasty waiting to be born.

The problem, of course, is that Viola has never met Ethan, not in the flesh, at least. She has read about him and devoured his poetic writings, but does the man himself live up to his dashing reputation?

Malcolm Penn-Leith exists in twilight. He manages his farm, Thistle Muir, in the shadow of the Scottish Highlands. As the older brother of the renowned Ethan Penn-Leith, Malcolm tends to his prized cows while Ethan basks in the limelight. Harder still, Malcolm lives under a cloud of grief after the death of his wife five years ago.

But then Miss Viola Brodure arrives in Malcolm’s wee village, intent on meeting Ethan and beginning a courtship. Viola—petite, blond, shy, and English—is nothing like Malcolm’s late wife. And yet, Viola awakens a piece of his heart that he thought lost in the abyss of his grief.

For her part, Viola is surprised to find herself more attracted to the stoic Malcolm than the charming Ethan. So now what? She isn’t meant to fall in love with the man adjacent to Ethan Penn-Leith. That’s not the plot she had outlined. After all, Malcolm and Viola are not the match made in heaven that everyone wishes to see. As social pressures mount, can Malcolm and Viola overcome the weight of his past and the expectations of her future to forge a new path together?

Please note that the basic elements of this story first appeared in a novella entitled A Ring of Gold. This current novel is a greatly-expanded adaptation of that novella.

My Review

Oh my heart! I loved this story when I read it as a novella, and the author has enriched it so much in this full length novel. I'm so happy that she has expanded it to an entire series to include the stories of all the Penn-Leith siblings. In the first book of the series we see Malcolm's personality before it is altered by his intense grief. I loved that glimpse into his past, and in this book he is emerging from the darkness, changed, yet with the same foundation. It's no wonder Viola is drawn to his thoughtful and gentle maturity that contrasts with his brother Ethan's flighty gregariousness. She and Malcolm have a sweetly intense chemistry and I loved their special moments together as they acknowledge the bond and connection they feel. Viola faces pressure to conform to the expectations and standards of others, but the landscape of the highlands and Malcolm's quiet encouragement gives her the courage to grasp the freedom that she so desperately desires. I love the poetry woven into the story and the influence it has on the characters. I'm earnestly awaiting the next book in this enthralling series!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the first book in the Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir series . . .

Review: Hearts of Briarwall by Krista Jensen

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

A TURN OF THE CENTURY ROMANCE

Lydia Wooding is fascinated by the latest inventions the new century brings, including motorcars. She longs for the independence they represent and believes that women should have a say in the future of the industry—just as they should have a say in suffrage, adventure, and, of course, love.

Spencer Hayes is a man of practicality and innovation, but he lacks the financial backing to make his dream a reality. When he contacts his childhood friend, Andrew Wooding, about a promising business venture, he is invited to Briarwall Manor to discuss the terms. Once there, he is surprised to find that Andrew's once shy, younger sister, Lydia, has grown into a young woman of beauty, wit, and a bit of fire. Even better, the two share a passion for motorcars.

Andrew, however, is wary of cars, having lost his parents in a tragic auto accident when he and Lydia were young. And he's not sure a relationship between his sister and Spencer is the best idea—not when Sir Lawrence is available and could match both Lydia's social status and her fortune.

Torn between risking their hearts and being loyal to their dreams in an era of whirlwind change, Spencer and Lydia anchor themselves with the determination they both share: to live life to its fullest.

My Review

This is one of my favorite books of the year! I usually prefer Regency to Victorian, but the author was so skilled at bringing the country estate hominess of Briarwall Manor to life, with Andrew and Lydia hosting a variety of characters, including Spencer. Lydia and her friends are embracing the ideas of innovation and change, and I love that Spencer doesn't try to stifle Lydia but appreciates her mind and vibrant personality. Their friendship and romance develops quite naturally, but Andrew's interference in Lydia's prospects provide some of the conflict in the story. Spencer also feels caught between Andrew and Lydia with his business proposal and investment opportunity, and Lydia is hurt from feeling like she's not trusted by the men in her life. The genuine natures of Lydia and Spencer appealed to me, and they are such a perfect match for each other. I loved their sweet chemistry and it really made the story come to life!

 
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Review: The Bachelor's Twins by Kathryn Springer

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Two Little Matchmakers

Anna Leighton's eight-year-old twin daughters think they've given their hardworking single mom the perfect birthday gift. But the family canoe trip with outdoorsman Liam Kane is far from relaxing. Their rocky shared past--and the secret Anna's been keeping--means she's given Liam a wide berth for ten years...until now. Liam may be bowled over by his former high school crush's beauty, but these days he's a die-hard bachelor who's building a cabin for one. But the rugged Liam underestimates the power of an unstoppable force: two little girls who want a daddy.

My Review

Liam comes from a rough childhood, but after he and his two brothers were taken in by a Castle Falls couple, they had a home and family that could be relied on. There are others in the community that don't let the stain of his past go, and old prejudices interfere with Anna and Liam's blossoming friendship. I liked how one small experience shifted the tides for them, and they began to interact at a deeper level than before when they always had their guard up. they have a sweet chemistry that is not founded on looks or physical attraction, but a much more meaningful connection of long-held feelings of yearning. Old secrets come to light with Anna's past, but also with the three Kane brothers. I'm excited to read more in the series!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the other books in the Castle Falls series . . .

Review: Her Guardian Rancher by Brenda Minton

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

A Soldier's Promise

Three years ago Daron McKay made a vow to his dying army buddy: watch over his wife, protect his child. But he never imagined he'd fall in love with mom and baby. Now as Emma Shaw barely hangs on to her ranch and her daughter faces lifesaving surgery, the cowboy bodyguard is determined to see his promise through. But Emma doesn't want a hero. Especially one riddled with guilt. She'll make it on her own, just like she always has. With Emma, Daron faces his most difficult assignment: showing the battle-scarred widow that letting go makes you stronger—and that loving is worth the risk…

My Review

I always enjoy the healing that takes place in stories where the main character has experienced trauma. Daron has watched over the family of a fallen comrade for years which aided in his slow recovery journey. He's reliable in the way that Emma's husband wasn't, but she just can't let go of the thought that he's only there out of guilt. It actually gets repetitive how much she hounds on that, and I wished for her to have more development throughout the book instead of closer to the end. The themes of loyalty and community are strong, and I liked the others that Daron worked with in his security company- Boone and Lucy. There is some conflict with Emma's former brother-in-law which brought an element of suspense to the book.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Check out the other books in the Martin's Crossing series . . .

Book Tour & Excerpt: Death on a Winter Stroll by Francine Mathews

Synopsis

No-nonsense Nantucket detective Merry Folger grapples with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and two murders as the island is overtaken by Hollywood stars and DC suits.

Nantucket Police Chief Meredith Folger is acutely conscious of the stress COVID-19 has placed on the community she loves. Although the island has proved a refuge for many during the pandemic, the cost to Nantucket has been high. Merry hopes that the Christmas Stroll, one of Nantucket’s favorite traditions, in which Main Street is transformed into a winter wonderland, will lift the island’s spirits. But the arrival of a large-scale TV production, and the Secretary of State and her family, complicates matters significantly.

The TV shoot is plagued with problems from within, as a shady, power-hungry producer clashes with strong-willed actors. Across Nantucket, the Secretary’s troubled stepson keeps shaking off his security detail to visit a dilapidated house near conservation land, where an intriguing recluse guards secrets of her own. With all parties overly conscious of spending too much time in the public eye and secrets swirling around both camps, it is difficult to parse what behavior is suspicious or not—until the bodies turn up.

Now, it’s up to Merry and Detective Howie Seitz to find a connection between two seemingly unconnected murders and catch the killer. But when everyone has a motive, and half of the suspects are politicians and actors, how can Merry and Howie tell fact from fiction?

This latest installment in critically acclaimed author Francine Mathews’ Merry Folger series is an immersive escape to festive Nantucket, a poignant exploration of grief as a result of parental absence, and a delicious new mystery to keep you guessing. 

 

Excerpt

The first weekend of December had been Meredith Folger’s favorite time of year for as long as she could remember. People often say that about holiday traditions, of course, but Merry was convinced that nowhere on earth was the winter solstice heralded with such enthusiastic conviction as during the three days of Nantucket’s Christmas Stroll.

Anticipation started to rise all over the island in late November. The day after Thanksgiving, crowds gathered at the head of Main Street for the ceremonial lighting of the massive ever- green tree that shed its glow throughout the darkest hours of the year; the following weekend, Santa would arrive at the end of Straight Wharf by Coast Guard cutter. Waving from the back of an antique fire truck, he’d follow the Town Crier and a drum section of grade-school kids who’d been practicing with Ms. Benton the music teacher for weeks, parading up from the harbor and winding through town. Everybody standing on the curb—islanders, tourists, daytrippers—would fall in behind and follow the truck with guttural cheers. Eventually Santa would be enthroned next to the lighted town tree and take requests from a long line of children. This was what gave Christmas Stroll its name. It had been going on for half a century now, and although imitated by towns all over New England, Nantucket’s weekend remained unrivaled. People who loved the island arrived each year by land and sea, from all over the country and the world, to celebrate.

Over time the holiday had morphed into three full days of permission to wander amiably around town with steaming cups of cheer and weird hats, bells jangling from the ankles of elf booties. Over ten thousand tourists crowded the sidewalks of downtown. The shops and restaurants were full. People laughed freely and called jokes to friends across the brick sidewalks and paused in the middle of the morning to sit on available benches. They bought things they didn’t need, simply because they wanted them, then gifted them to others without a thought.

Costumed carolers sang on street corners. Tourists took selfies in front of window boxes and beneath mistletoe balls. A few of them found someone to kiss. They jostled each other good-naturedly, butting armfuls of colorful bags, as they trailed down the streets in their red and green Stroll scarves.

In lucky years, it snowed.

In less fortunate ones, it rained.

This year, the forecast was for Windy and Gorgeous.

Uniformed members of Merry’s police force would be up early and out on Main Street Saturday morning with sawhorses, barricading the heart of town against vehicular traffic. They’d stand in the crosswalks and near the sundial planter that sat right in the middle of the cobblestoned street. The Garden Association decorated the urn each year with fresh greens and red bows and tiny white lights. The police were there to maintain order and most of the Strollers were orderly, except for the occasional drunken jerk who vomited without warning on the uneven brick side- walk. Merry had observed the rhythms of Stroll her entire life, she reflected, and usually it never got old.

But this year, she was clenching her teeth and grinding her way through the holiday. This year, she was struggling to find the Joy of the Season. This year, she barely had time to care.

This year, she wasn’t merely another happy reveler hiding mysterious boxes on the top shelf of the spare bedroom’s closet, the scent of vanilla and cloves in her hair. She wasn’t pausing to rub pine or spruce branches on her early morning walks, so that the resinous oil lingered on her fingertips, or losing track of time while she snapped pictures of festive window boxes. This year, she was the Nantucket Police Department’s chief of police. And Christmas Stroll, to be completely honest, was shaping up to be a royal pain in the ass.

Chapter 1, pg. 5-7

From Death on a Winter Stroll © 2022, Francine Mathews, published by Soho Crime


Advance Praise

“This fast-moving mystery packs in a lot, but never too much, and will work for fans of coming-of-age stories, police procedurals, and romance.” —First Clue

“Fresh, well-wrought prose brings the setting of Nantucket to life. Mathews consistently entertains.” —Publishers Weekly

“Christmas and death come to Nantucket . . . Plenty of fascinating characters and myriad motives make for an exciting read.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Mathews consistently places relationships at the forefront of her mysteries, and Merry's unique blend of tenacity and humanity makes her a heroine to root for.”—USA Today bestselling author Karen Odden, author of the Inspector Corravan mysteries

 

 

About the Author

Francine Mathews was born in Binghamton, New York, the last of six girls. She attended Princeton and Stanford Universities, where she studied history, before going on to work as an intelligence analyst at the CIA. She wrote her first book in 1992 and left the Agency a year later. Since then, she has written thirty books, including six previous novels in the Merry Folger series (Death in the Off-Season, Death in Rough Water, Death in a Mood Indigo, Death in a Cold Hard Light, Death on Nantucket, and Death on Tuckernuck) as well as the nationally bestselling Being a Jane Austen mystery series, which she writes under the pen name Stephanie Barron. She lives and works in Denver, Colorado.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Bookbub | Goodreads

 

 

Review: Anything But Plain Suzanne Woods Fisher

Synopsis

It's not easy being the bishop's daughter, especially for Lydie Stoltzfus. She's not like other Amish girls, as much as she wishes she were. The only thing she does well is disappoint others. Leaving her family and church seems unbearable, but staying might be worse.

Knowing Lydie is "between" jobs, the local doctor asks her to fill in at the front desk for a few months. To Lydie, this is a boon. It gives her time to figure out how she's going to say goodbye to her neighbor, Nathan Yoder--the main reason she needs to leave Stoney Ridge. Nathan claims he's in love with her, but she knows she's not good enough for him. If in doubt, Nathan's father reminds her frequently.

As Dok spends time with Lydie, she recognizes symptoms of a disorder rare among the Amish. She offers treatment for Lydie. But will it be enough to make her stay? Or has help come too late?

Bestselling and award-winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge, a small town that feels like an old friend.

My Review

Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite authors of Amish fiction, but I really struggled with this one. I don't think I was in the best place emotionally to read it, because I felt the hidden hopelessness and despair of Lydie keenly, and the injustice of Nathan's father's cruelty was too much. Nathan has commendable goals to improve the farm, but Mick and their father are persuaded by the easier way with empty promises, and Nathan is not given enough regard to present his plan or enough time to actually execute it. I will have to finish this book when I'm able to wade though the hardships they are sure to endure.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Review: The Cowboy's Perfect Match by Cathy McDavid

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

He may not be perfect... but he's perfect for her!

Ryan DeMeres is definitely enjoying the perks of being Sweetheart Ranch's new wrangler - the best is working with head chef Bridget O'Malley. He's fallen head over spurs for the talented and determined beauty. There's just one hiccup - Bridget is holding out for Mr Right, and Ryan doesn't quite meet her requirements. But he's determined to win Bridget over, because though he may not be perfect, maybe their love could be.

My Review

I sure do love a ranch setting, and this one featured a cowboy and the cook to boot! They are both charismatic and their chemistry is undeniable, but what to do when they have far different goals in life? Turns out they just need to work through their individual relationship issues in order to see that love is worth making some compromises and realize what the truly important things are. I felt like these characters were both genuine and had great personalities. It was fun to read their journey to a happily ever after.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Check out the other books in The Sweetheart Ranch series . . .