Review: A Lady's Wager by Arlem Hawks, Josi S. Kilpack, Sarah M. Eden

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Can a lady wager on love?

The Diamond of Bristol by Arlem Hawks
Lieutenant Derrick Owens has always been on his own and wants to keep it that way, but when he saves a shipmate’s sister from a horrible dance partner, Corah Bradford’s sweet temperament and friendly nature make her hard to resist. Unable to find a suitable husband in Bristol who she can also love, Corah is entangled in a wager to secure Derrick’s company for an evening. Despite their reluctance to let go of their convictions, their easy friendship turns to something more. But with war on the horizon and Corah bound for the marriage mart in London, they both must discover what’s truly important—love or their previous expectations.

Women of a Certain Age by Josi S. Kilpack
Over the years, Colletta Markshire has been the driving force in helping young women make their match during the Season in London. Rachel is her lucky thirteen and Etta has every expectation that she will be a triumph ... except that things are not going to plan. Rachel has not taken to London and is determined to grow an acquaintance with a young man not at all the thing. The young man's father, Wynn Firth, is nearly as distracting as Etta's worries, and in every way she felt sure she would never feel distracted again. When Rachel disappears, Etta has little doubt what’s happened and she and Wynn set out together to find the young couple before word gets out. Hours in a carriage with a handsome man can be even more distracting, however, and Etta finds herself entertaining ideas she never thought to have. Etta gave up on love years ago ... and yet, as Women of a Certain age can attest, it is never too late to change one’s mind and change one’s future.

A Most Unsuitable Suitor by Sarah M. Eden
Drowning in debt, Julian, Lord Wesley spends an evening of shared misery with his closest friend at their club and makes a startling discovery: someone has placed a wager that Lady Charlotte Duchamps will not marry before her 21st birthday, with Julian himself receiving £1000 if she does not. Lady Charlotte suddenly finds herself the subject of a great deal of attention from Lord Wesley, a vague acquaintance with a questionable reputation. With Julian and Charlotte both attempting to solve mysteries and wreak chaos, betting on the possibility of love might just prove the most risky wager of all.

My Review

A captivating addition to the Timeless Romance series! This collection is set in the Georgian era, and each story included some historical details that showed the differences of this time period. They also have a wager built into the plot somehow, but the authors and characters made the stories unique. I was able to connect emotionally to the characters as they navigate society, expectations, and love. I appreciate that the length of each story is longer than a novella, so we get to delve in a bit deeper, but I can also get to the happy ending more quickly than a full length novel, which is a perfect way to relax at the end of a long day! These collections are some of my favorites to re-read for that exact reason.

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.

A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors: Guest Post by Laura Frantz

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors including Lynn Austin, Susie Finkbeiner, Jocelyn Green, Laura Frantz, Kate Breslin, Amanda Barratt, and Joanna Davidson Politano, sponsored by JustRead Publicity Tours!

You are Invited

A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors
September 2, 2023 at 7 p.m. 
Palmer House Hilton Hotel, Chicago

Join us at 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 2, at Chicago’s historic Palmer House Hilton Hotel for a tasteful evening with tea and talk of books, writing, history, and the power of story. Emceed by Chris Jager of Baker Book House, seven novelists will share what inspires them, tales from the research files, what they’ve learned on the journey, and their hope for readers.

Learn More about A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors

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 Guest Post by Author Laura Frantz

 

 

Since I write romance it’s fun to think of an Author-Reader Match via a “dating-style” profile to introduce readers to authors and their books. So here is my ideal reader match…

Writes:
Laura Frantz writes award-winning historical romances with emotional intensity and unexpected twists like her 14th novel, The Rose and the Thistle. Amid the Jacobite uprising of 1715, an English heiress flees to the Scottish lowlands to stay with allies of her powerful family. But while castle walls may protect her from the enemy outside, a whirlwind of intrigue, shifting allegiances, and temptations of the heart lie within.

About:
Young-at-heart Kentucky native seeking readers who love historical romance novels with emotional intensity and authentic detail & who are capable of soulful character connections. Happy endings guaranteed though it may be a rocky road to get there. Must have a passion for Scotland if not Scottish ancestry & the capacity to be charmed by an assortment of endearing characters & picturesque castles, including the ability to scream PLOT TWIST at least 20 times during the novel’s 400-plus pages.

What I’m looking for in my ideal reader match:

*Admires clever, titled heroines who spar with titled, military heroes

*Adores angst

*Dreams of living in a castle

*Loves to travel

*Open to haggis

*Thinks French is sexy

*Loves children, animals, & gardens

*Fascinated by 18th-century fashion, lost languages, & traditions

What to expect if we're compatible:

*Armchair travel to France, England, & Scotland

*Closed door romance with plenty of sizzle

*Depth of historical detail

*Torn between staying up all night reading or slowing down and savoring every word

*Finished the book but still thinking about it

 

"A deeply atmospheric story of faith, love, and sacrifice that is as captivating as it is enthralling."--Sarah E. Ladd, bestselling author of The Cornwall Novels

In 1715, Lady Blythe Hedley's father is declared an enemy of the British crown because of his Jacobite sympathies, forcing her to flee her home in northern England. Secreted to the tower of Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, Blythe quietly awaits the crowning of a new king. But in a house with seven sons and numerous servants, her presence soon becomes known.

No sooner has Everard Hume lost his father, Lord Wedderburn, than Lady Hedley arrives with her maid in tow. He has his own problems--a volatile brother with dangerous political leanings, an estate to manage, and a very young brother in need of comfort and direction. It would be best for everyone if he could send this misfit heiress on her way as soon as possible.

In this whirlwind of intrigue, ambitions, and shifting alliances, Blythe yearns for someone she can trust. But the same forces that draw her and Everard together also threaten to tear them apart.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository |Bookshop.org | Christianbook | BookBub

 

Laura Frantz is a Christy Award winner and the ECPA bestselling author of more than a dozen novels, including The Frontiersman's Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, The Lacemaker, and A Heart Adrift. She is a proud mom of an American soldier and a career firefighter. A direct descendent of George Hume of Wedderburn Castle, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion, Laura lives with her husband in Washington State.

Connect with Laura by visiting laurafrantz.net to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Meet the other Novel-Tea Authors . . .

LYNN AUSTIN, whose titles include Long Way Home, Chasing Shadows, and If I Were You. Connect with her at LynnAustin.org.

AMANDA BARRATT, whose titles include Within These Walls of Sorrow, The White Rose Resists, and My Dearest Dietrich. Connect with her at AmandaBarratt.net.

KATE BRESLIN, whose titles include In Love’s Time, As Dawn Breaks, and Far Side of the Sea. Connect with her at KateBreslin.com.

SUSIE FINKBEINER, whose titles include The All-American, The Nature of Small Birds, and All Manner of Things. Connect with her at SusieFinkbeiner.com.

JOCELYN GREEN, whose titles include The Metropolitan Affair, The Windy City Saga series, and The Mark of the King. Connect with her at JocelynGreen.com.

JOANNA DAVIDSON POLITANO, whose titles include The Lost Melody, A Midnight Dance, and The Love Note. Connect with her at JDPStories.com.

Purchase Tickets to Attend A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a tote bag, one bag of Pride and Peppermint Novel Tea, plus a $20 egift card to BakerBookHouse.com!

 

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 12, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 19, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

 

Review: Love Me Tender, Love Me True by Lucinda Whitney

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Can an Elvis-obsessed puppy-sitter and an uptight museum owner tackle a summer bucket list without falling in love?

When Juliana Romano agrees to dogsit a puppy in Hudson Springs, New York, she hopes it will help her forget the painful memories she left behind in Portugal. Then she finds a stranger skinny-dipping in the pool and she calls the cops on him, only to discover he owns the house and she’s the intruder. He agrees to let her stay and continue her puppy-sitting job—as long as she keeps to herself. At the suggestion of family friends, Juliana makes a summer bucket-list, knowing it’s the distraction she needs before she goes home.

Matt Garrison is home for the summer after failing to secure funding for the museum he owns. Forced to close for the foreseeable future, he only wants to be left alone to research plans for reopening. But sharing his house with a Portuguese woman and a puppy is the farthest from peace and quiet he can get—between her early morning obsession with Elvis Presley music, the puppy’s chewing of his belongings, and the meddling of old ladies, Matt finds himself smothered in company.

As Matt reluctantly joins Juliana in carrying out the items on her list, he realizes his first impression of her is all wrong. The more time Juliana spends with Matt, the less interested she is to return home. Is the attraction they feel only temporary or are they willing to work for a happy-ever-after?

Love Me Tender, Love Me True is a small-town, opposites-attract, forced proximity sweet romance with an HEA ending.

 

If you like sweet romance stories set in a small town, with a reluctant hero, a spunky heroine, and an adorable rescue puppy, you'll love this fresh take on a romantic classic!
 

Welcome to Hudson Springs, New York, where the neighbors always meddle and love is just around the corner! Unforgettable stories of new beginnings, second chances, and found family. Perfect for fans of Virgin River, Sweet Magnolias, and Chesapeake Shores!

My Review

This is a fun novella in the My Funny Valentine Romantic Comedy Collection with a hilariously awkward meet-cute! I loved the way Matt and Juliana slowly get to know each other, even though the dialogue is a bit stilted. Juliana is a pleasant person and totally devoted to her puppy-sitting charge. I was surprised at the amount of time she spends playing with and entertaining the dog, but since it's her job to train him it was impressive. Juliana is related to characters from the author's Romano family series, and I love that Juliana could turn to her cousins in her time of need. 

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.

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Dawn’s Untrodden Green by Carolyn Miller

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Dawn’s Untrodden Green by Carolyn Miller, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Dawn's Untrodden Green
Series: Regency Wallflowers #3
Author: Carolyn Miller
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Release Date: April 11, 2023
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

"Highly entertaining, refreshing, and witty. . . . [A] beautifully written, delightful, and faith-filled romance of two endearing hearts."

--Grace Hitchcock, award-winning author of My Dear Miss Dupré

Not much happens in Theodosia Stapleton's tiny Northumberland village. Certainly not to her. She has resigned herself to spinsterhood, caring for her ailing mother in the home of her grandfather, known to the locals as "General Contrary." When her dear friend dies and leaves behind a daughter, it's simple enough to take the child into her own quiet world. That is, until her ward's famous uncle unexpectedly arrives and throws Theo's tidy orbit completely off-kilter. 

Fame was the last thing Daniel Balfour sought when he fought in the Peninsular War. But his brave exploits caught the attention of the King, and now the honors he was given hound him everywhere . . . even on his rushed trip to rescue his orphaned niece. Theo's quick wit and warm smile reassure him that Rebecca is in good hands, and he finds himself free to swiftly return to London and his responsibilities. But those caring hands are beginning to look like they could also safely hold his heart, and he's tempted to linger. Unfortunately, marriage is simply not in the cards; the army is spouse enough for him. 

Then an accident and a scandal lead both Theo and Daniel to discover that their best-laid plans may not have been what God designed for them after all.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Book Depository | Bookshop | BookBub

 

MExcerpt

“You still wish to leave?”

“I would have preferred to depart by the middle of next week, but it seems the house will delay me a few days more.” He led the horse behind him as they strolled.

“Leaving you to skulk through the bushes, praying not to be seen?”

“You have the right of it, ma’am.”

A chuckle escaped.

“What is it now? I should not have thought this was a laughing matter.”

“Forgive me. But I continue to be amused that a hero should find himself in such a predicament.”

“You would not be so amused if you were the one facing all manners of invitations.”

“It must be so hard.” She paused at the turn that signaled Mannering’s drive.

“I was right,” he said. “You are a minx.”

She gave another choke of laughter.

“Do you do that often?”

“Do what often?”

“Make that most delightful sound.”

 

More Books in this Series

 

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About the Author

Carolyn Miller lives in New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. A longtime lover of Regency romance, Carolyn's novels have won a number of RWA and ACFW contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers.

Connect with Carolyn by visiting carolynmillerauthor.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of all three books in the Regency Wallflower series by Carolyn Miller.
(books 1 & 2 will be signed, and a book plate from the author will be included for Dawn's Untrodden Green)

 

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 10, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 17, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Review: Jonas by Susan May Warren

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Jonas Marshall is done storm-chasing, plagued with the memory of a terrible accident that paralyzed a fellow chaser, so the last thing he’s going to do is run into more danger. Now, he’s just a simple weatherman deploying dirigibles in an experiment to track weather patterns in Slovenia.

As far from danger as he can get.

But danger comes knocking in the form of hiker in need of rescue, and he can’t deny that her companion—beautiful Sibba Kovac—is a great distraction from the guilt that haunts him…until she paraglides right out of his life.

Probably for the best.

But danger still won’t leave him alone when a storm knocks his dirigibles out of the sky, and he happens upon one that looks tampered with…

It is. And worse, it’s carrying what could be radioactive waste. At least according to EOD expert Sibba…who finds herself face-to-face with the rescuer she can’t forget. But she’s not looking for him—her grandfather is missing, and she’ll stop at nothing to find him.

When her missing grandfather leads to the threat of a dirty bomb, she’s the only one who can stop it. And Jonas is the only man brave enough to run into danger with her. But she doesn’t have room in her heart to love him—not when she lives with death in her periphery. Can the right man, at the right time help her see beyond her fears to a future?

And if they have a chance to save the world, can Jonas let go of the woman he loves?

My Review

This series keeps getting better! I loved the unique occupations of Jonas and Sibba- severe weather chaser and bomb diffuser?! Guaranteed action. I also loved the setting of Slovenia, since it's a new location for me to read about and most especially because my mom and stepdad are currently serving a church mission there! Although now I'm freaked out about the leftover bombs from the wars. Anyhow, we continue with the nonstop adventure, danger, and suspense as Jonas chases down his weather dirigibles and crosses paths with Sibba, joining efforts to prevent more nuclear waste from being deployed in the area. The strong support characters from other books in the author's various series assist with the mission as they follow Jonas and Sibba who lead them to the perpetrators. I loved their chemistry, the way they admire and respect each other, and even though they both have their issues to work through and overcome, their faith emerges to strengthen them in their trials. Some of the story is told from Ned's perspective, providing a lead-in to the next book, which I can't wait to read!

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 Minnesota Marshalls series . . .

Review: The Amish Quiltmaker's Unconventional Niece by Jennifer Beckstrand

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Resourceful Colorado Amish quiltmaker Esther Kiem has her hands full with husband, home, and a baby on the way. But putting her skills to the test for an outspoken niece who’s running for town council is a matchmaking challenge she can’t resist. Infused with her signature humor and saturated with heart, award-winning, USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Beckstrand blends quilting, mischief, and matchmaking for the third Amish Quiltmaker romance – perfect for fans of Charlotte Hubbard, Wanda Brunstetter, and Linda Byler.

Mattie Zook always stands up for what’s right—which is why she’s been exiled from her Pennsylvania Dutch home to her Aunt Esther’s farm. Outraged at local discrimination against the Amish, she’s using her rumschpringe to run for town council. Esther can only hope that sensible local farmer Freeman Sensenig will help Mattie—and keep her from going too far. But Mattie is soon finding her new campaign manager all too appealing . . .

Freeman never thought that the standoffish, opinionated Mattie would care so much about others. Even more amazing, their differences are somehow making her campaign successful—and have him hoping for more of a future with her. But unexpected obstacles and a sudden romantic rival will put their growing closeness to the test—and give them only one chance to truly reconcile their hearts . . .

My Review

I love this author's vibrant characters and the unique situations they find themselves in! Mattie can't see injustice and not do something to solve the problem, even if it bucks Amish tradition. Being disliked or rejected because of her actions can be lonely, but she has a small group of friends who support her efforts, including the non-Amish Cathy, an older lady from Esther's quilting group full of plenty of quirks and spice. Freeman is reluctant to help since the Amish leaders are watching him closely, and I loved how he stepped up to help in the background. As always, there is a fun humor woven into the small-town drama, and this book was a pleasure to read. The character growth of both Mattie and Freeman brought depth to the story, and their chemistry grew with a steady burn. Loved their romantic moments!

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 Courtship Plan by Kathleen Fuller

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Finding a husband is serious business. And serious business requires serious planning.

Charity Raber is one of many single women who came to Birch Creek, Ohio, with one goal in mind: secure a husband from among the desperate bachelors a newspaper advertisement claimed inhabited the town. Even though that claim proved to be nothing more than a cruel prank, Charity is still hopeful that her happy ending might be within reach when she’s set up on a date with Jesse Bontrager. That is until Jesse not-so-gently shares that he has no interest in a relationship with anyone—and especially not with her.

One year later, Charity is working as a caretaker for a kind, elderly English woman in the nearby town of Marigold. She’s also working hard on a brand-new courtship plan. A plan that absolutely does not involve Jesse Bontrager. But when he moves next door and is made aware of her scheming, Charity vows to prove that her plan is foolproof. Meanwhile, Jesse is sure she’ll make a fool of herself. And for some reason he’s not willing to let that happen.

This stubborn bachelor and determined bachelorette will soon learn that their plans rarely work out as expected—but God’s plans always will.

My Review

I think it's hilarious that the author paired up Jesse, the troublemaker who placed the newspaper ad bringing all the marriage-minded women to Birch Creek, with Charity, one of those young women with the prickliest of attitudes. They both have grown up and matured a bit, and even though they can't stand each other, their connection provides ample opportunities to "help" each other and go through more refining. I really liked Shirley, the woman Charity cares for, and her oft-escaping dog, who both play an important role in bringing Jesse and Charity together. I appreciated the life lessons they learned during their time in Marigold, especially Jesse coming to terms with the impact of his prank.

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: Enchanting the Heiress by Kristi Ann Hunter

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Miss Harriet Hancock enjoys playing the role of eccentric heiress, using her wealth and influence to cleverly and anonymously better the lives of those in Newmarket. Though she keeps people at a distance to protect a years-old secret, when her friend pleads for help on a personal project, Harriet can't resist.

Stable hand Jonas Fitzroy would do anything for his twin sister, even if it means seeking out the woman whose meddling ways have made him wary and suspicious. The last thing he expects is for Miss Hancock to request his help in writing a book. Intent on revealing her underlying plan, Jonas agrees.

As they work together, an unexpected friendship forms. But when things for once don't go according to Harriet's plan, she's left wondering if good intentions might not be enough. Is there a way to mend the broken pieces of her life? And will Jonas give her another chance at his heart?

My Review

I loved the relationship Jonas shared with his sister Sophia in the previous book with the way he  grounded her and his sense of humor. I was looking forward to more from him in that vein, but this story focused more on his angst and self-doubts. I felt like his personality changed in this book and his thoughts and actions were very much like Aaron, the curmudgeonly stable master Sophia falls in love with. Harriet became a good friend to Sophia, but Jonas is suspicious of her motives since he can sense something a bit off. She has her secrets, but also a good heart and well-meaning intentions. They both learn quite a bit about themselves when they share the judgements they have of each other. There's some great character growth, and of course I loved the interactions with all the couples from the rest of 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 Hearts on the Heath series . . .