Review: In Honor's Defense by Karen Witemeyer

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

He's faced countless perils on the battlefield, but nothing so dangerous as falling in love.

Luke Davenport has been fighting all his life—for respect, for country, and for those unable to fight for themselves. But now that his Horsemen brothers are domesticated, he's left alone to battle the wildness within. When an opportunity arises to take a job on his own, tracking down a group of rustlers, he jumps at the chance.

Damaris Baxter has mastered the art of invisibility. Plain and quiet, she hides in books and needlework, content to be overlooked. Until her brother dies suddenly, leaving her custody of her nephew. She moves to Texas to care for Nathaniel, determined to create the family for herself that she never thought she'd have and to give him the family he desperately needs.

When Nate finds himself knee-deep in trouble, Luke's attempt to protect him leaves Damaris feeling indebted to the Horseman. But suspicions grow regarding the mysterious death of Damaris's brother. And the more questions they ask, the more danger appears, threatening the family Luke may be unable to live without.

My Review

Although this is the third book in the series, it reads well on its own. I felt like I got to know Luke and Damaris quickly as the author showed through their actions the strengths and vulnerabilities they have. Damaris was so patient with Nate, even when he pushed her away time and again. I admired her devotion to care for her nephew as he struggled through his grief and anger. Luke rolls into town and almost immediately bonds with the little family as he investigates, protects, and becomes a male role model for Nate. There didn't seem to be as much humor in this story, but that made the little moments of subtlety more noticeable. Even with all the difficulties they are enduring, I loved the positive attitude of Damaris and Luke, and the way they lifted each other. They seem to be total opposites, but they have the important things in common, making them complement each other in the relationship. I enjoyed their sweet slow burn romance!

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 Hanger's Horsemen series . . .

Review: Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Can truth and love prevail when no one is as they appear?
 
The Gentleman Smuggler’s Lady
Cornish Coast, 1815
When a prim and proper governess returns to England from abroad, she expects to comfort her dying father—not fall in love with a smuggler. Will Helen Fletcher keep Isaac Seaton’s unusual secret?

(originally in The Regency Brides Collection: 7 Romances Set in England during the Early Nineteenth Century)
 
The Doctor’s Woman (A Carol Award Winner!)
Dakota Territory, 1862
Emmy Nelson, daughter of a missionary doctor, and Dr. James Clark, city doctor aspiring to teach, find themselves working side by side at Fort Snelling during the Dakota Uprising. That is when the real clash of ideals begins.
(originally in The Courageous Brides Collection)

 
A House of Secrets
St. Paul, Minnesota, 1890
Ladies Aide Chairman, Amanda Carston resolves to clean up St. Paul’s ramshackle housing, starting with the worst of the worst: a “haunted” house that’s secretly owned by her beau—a home that’s his only means of helping brothel girls escape from the hands of the city’s most infamous madam.

(originally in Of Rags and Riches Romance Collection)

My Review

This collection of novellas is a bit like a mash-up of unrelated stories, I wasn't sensing a common theme among the three. The first one is what I would expect from the title of the collection, with secrets and smuggling, although Helen was a witness of Isaac's plot, not a participant. Her natural inclination is to dissuade him from what she perceives as thievery and crime- but thing are not always what they seem. The second story didn't have a whiff of intrigue- it took us to the western US with a doctor and volunteer nurse serving the local Native Americans being held at the fort. The last story I admittedly didn't finish. The language and thoughts of the main characters were too sickly sweet which I found unrealistic, and difficult to engage with the plot.

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: A Place at Our Table by Amy Clipston

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Kayla Dienner has suffered her fair share of heartache, which is why she vows to protect her heart at all costs . . . until she meets Jamie Riehl.

Along with his volunteer work at the local fire department, running his Amish farm keeps Jamie Riehl busy. He barely has time to eat at the family table, never mind find someone to date. But when he meets Kayla Dienner, he is smitten.

Kayla tries hard to deny her attraction to Jamie. After all, she’s spent the last year discouraging her younger brother, Nathan, from becoming a firefighter. The death of their older brother in a fire a year ago is fresh in her mind—she can’t bear the idea of putting her heart on the line every time the sirens blare.

Then tragedy strikes, and Jamie wants to extinguish any flame between him and Kayla. Can Kayla set aside her own fears to save the love she was determined to deny?

My Review

I unfortunately read this series out of order, and this first book is the one I read last! I already knew from the later books one of the major plot points in this story, but I still wasn't prepared for the emotion of the scene. I loved the way Kayla kept reaching out to Jamie and his family during their difficult times. The book description isn't correct- Kayla doesn't have an issue with Jamie being a firefighter, she has difficulty trusting men who keep letting her down and not following through with promises. Jamie never wanted to "extinguish their flame" as described, he was begging for another chance when he let Kayla down. The angst between the two of them was a bit immature and premature- I think their relationship needed to develop more for the type of expectations Kayla had for Jamie. I love Jamie's family and it was great to see the earlier days of those characters that have their own stories in the other books 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 Amish Homestead series . . .

Review: In Her Sights by Karen Witemeyer

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

He's sworn off love, but she has his heart in her sights and doesn't intend to miss.

Stained by his wastrel father's legacy, Jackson Spivey lives on the fringes of society. Townsfolk tolerate him since he keeps the local hotel supplied with fresh game, but mothers coach their daughters to avoid him. After tasting consistent rejection, Jackson spurns all attempts at courtship. The only things he can count on are his guns and his God.

Tessa James has been secretly in love with Jackson for ages, but trying to gain his favor only pushes him further away. When she learns Annie Oakley is traveling through Texas, Tessa seeks lessons from the famed markswoman. If Jackson's life revolves around guns, taking up shooting might help her engage his interest. Too bad she can't hit the broad side of a barn.

When Annie loans Tessa a custom pistol, however, things begin to change. The lore behind the mysterious weapon fosters hope that Tessa might finally hit the target of Jackson's heart. But when danger threatens, she might be forced to use the pistol for something other than finding love.

My Review

This story is classic Witemeyer! It contained all the elements I love in her stories- emotional connection, character growth, romance, subtle humor, faith, and action. I felt bad for Tessa that she's been so obvious about her affection for Jackson with no results, and with the whole town watching. Jackson's self-worth has taken so many hits over the years that he doesn't even consider the possibility. I admired Tessa's ingenuity and determination, not just to catch a beau but to reach out to Jackson as a friend. I enjoyed the historical tidbits surrounding Annie Oakley that I didn't know before, and gained a greater appreciation for the real life heroine. The danger that comes to town brings the climax of the novella and the author skillfully showed the true characters of Jackson and Gemma as they worked together and discovered what a perfect match they are. A sweet and entertaining novella that I plan to read again in the future!

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 multi-author Pink Pistol Sisterhood series . . .

Double Review: The Brick House Cafe and The Broken Hearts Bakery by Carla Laureano

 

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

 

The Brick House Cafe e-book can be downloaded at the author's website

(at the time of this post)

Synopsis

**Welcome to Haven Ridge, Colorado—a fading town that might just have a little magic left...**

Travel writer Mallory Adams accepted her latest assignment on the mountain towns of southern Colorado in the hopes it would offer an escape from all the recent failures in her life—quitting her history graduate studies, losing her apartment, being dumped by her boyfriend for another woman. So when a series of mishaps lands her in the dying town of Haven Ridge, it feels more like a punishment than an opportunity.

Thomas Rivas returned home after a personal tragedy to find Haven Ridge much diminished. But when a plucky and beautiful writer blows into his family’s cafe—something that his mystic-minded Granny Pearl claims is no accident—it seems like the chance to put the town back on the map. Soon Thomas makes it his mission to make Mallory fall in love with Haven Ridge and its fascinating, forgotten past—he just doesn’t expect to lose his own heart in the bargain.

With its quirky cast of characters, sweet love-after-loss romance, and small-town mystery, *The Brick House Cafe* reminds us that it’s never too late to believe in the magic of second chances.

My Review

This prequel novella in the Haven Ridge series was a perfect introduction to the small Colorado town, through the eyes of the stranded Mallory. She's at a crossroads in her life, and her optimism combined with a curious mind for history appreciated the story of the women who founded the town. Thomas is standoffish at first, but when we get his perspective we discover why. I enjoyed their time together and the way Mallory helps Thomas open up to a relationship in his future. Mallory is more confused because of the options before her career-wise, but Haven Ridge's magic works it's charm and all Mallory has to do is be open to new possibilities.

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.

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Sometimes the town that broke your heart is the only place that can heal you.

When Gemma left her hometown of Haven Ridge, Colorado, she swore she’d never return. And she’s kept that promise, leaving old shadows behind and building her reputation as one of LA’s preeminent family law attorneys. But when her lifelong best friend begs Gemma to come stay with her teen stepdaughter while she’s on a business trip, she doesn’t have the heart to refuse. She’ll simply keep a low profile, do her honorary aunt duties for Taylor, and be gone before anyone notices.

But Haven Ridge seems to have a mind of its own, and before she knows it, Gemma finds herself caught up with new friends and old rivalries. When Taylor is targeted by teen bullies, Gemma does the only thing she knows how to do: ply her honorary niece with baked goods and words of affirmation. Soon her temporary lodgings are ground zero for teenage girls seeking sugar and consolation for shockingly adult problems—which the girls soon dub the Broken Hearts Bakery.

Complicating matters is an unexpected reunion with Gemma’s high school sweetheart, Stephen, who is determined to change her mind about him, the town, and the nature of love itself. Because as it turns out, her niece isn’t the only one nursing a broken heart.

My Review

The story of Gemma's past trauma is alluded to in the prequel, and the town matriarch implies that the negative reactions of the townspeople began the decline of Haven Ridge. This is very much a second chance story- for both the town and the romantic relationship of Gemma and Stephen, with betrayal at the center of the heartbreak. Stephen has a lot of growing up to do- even as an adult, and comes to some important realizations about himself. Gemma is a pretty strong character, but has hidden vulnerabilities that are forced to the surface as she is immersed in the town and Stephen's life. There's plenty of angst to go around, but the themes of redemption and forgiveness brought a sense of hope. Some of the recollections from their teenage years had content that made me uncomfortable- underage behavior that is not healthy/moral but was not portrayed in a negative light. I had anticipated that the location of the bakery would play an important role in the book, but Gemma's home baking for friends and the school were the focus, and even that  seemed to be secondary to the main plot of her hot/cold relationship with Stephen. With the next novel's title having a bookshop, I hope that the town revitalization is more central to the story. 

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 new cover of the next book in the Haven Ridge series . . . 

Review: The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed by Esther Hatch

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

If there is one woman Samson Rutherford, Earl of Riverton, can’t abide, it is his meddling sister. He has spent his whole life being a pawn in her plans and tricks, but when one of her schemes leaves him dressed in women’s clothing, he has finally had enough. He cannot beat her at her games, or even say no to her, his only option to save his sanity and pride is to run away--and fortunately, his solicitor knows just the place…

Catherine Wallace wasn’t born to be a governess, but with her family’s fall from grace, she has become one. A good one. However, when the chance arises to stay at her uncle’s home so she can care for his horticulture project while he is absent, she jumps at the chance. Leaving her position, she plans to gather her sisters together so they can be a family again--even if it is only for a little while.

But the last thing Catherine expected to find upon her arrival was her childhood friend. Samson has sequestered himself at the cottage and claims to have been invited to watch over her uncle’s business while he is away. But Catherine insists that’s what she’s been asked to do. The quiet retreat is what they both need, but who will get to stay?

Not Samson, because he has never gotten the better of a woman, not since… well, not since Catherine let him kiss her years ago…

Come to think of it, perhaps it is time for Samson to win after all.

My Review

I love rom-coms with depth, but I usually find them in the contemporary genre. Esther Hatch has skillfully applied it to the Regency era with delightful results! I adored the first book and novella, and this second full length novel ranked right up with them. Samson's sisters are driving him crazy, and their latest prank sends him desperately retreating into seclusion. The forced proximity at Catherine's uncle's home gives Samson and her plenty of opportunities to get reacquainted, and learn how their past has affected their present circumstances, influencing the potential for the future. Plenty of banter and amazing chemistry made this a highly entertaining story, but the undercurrent of angst tempered the comedy perfectly, and I enjoyed every minute of reading! It's going on my list of favorite books to re-read, and I hope there will be more added to this 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 series A Romance of Rank . . .

Review: A Seat by the Hearth by Amy Clipston

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Priscilla Allgyer, a young single mother, knows she cannot leave the past behind. But can love lead her toward the promise of healing? 

Priscilla Allgyer left her community to escape the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return—along with her six-year-old son—to the place she thought she’d left behind forever. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone. 

As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day—while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won’t give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn’t realize it—and after Priscilla’s father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, their relationship becomes more complicated than ever. 

As affection quietly grows between them, Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed? The third book in the Amish Homestead series, A Seat by the Hearth invites us back to the Lancaster community where friendships are forged and love overcomes all.

My Review

I was drawn into the lives of Priscilla and Mark, two very different people who find themselves in circumstances that spiral out of control. Priscilla was both desperate and courageous to return to her Amish home, even with a verbally abusive father. She has trust issues with men because of that dysfunctional relationship, and also the physically abusive relationship she left behind- causing her to mistrust charming men like Mark. Mark is from a wonderful family who have had their share of hardship, and I enjoyed his close relationship with his twin sister Laura. He is the ultimate bachelor, charming the girls but never committing because he considers them just friends. Plenty of drama and angst ensues as he is drawn to Priscilla who rebuffs his every attempt at friendship, while she adjusts to returning home and what that means for her future. Their story is compelling, but I wished for more time when they were actually getting along and not denying their growing affection- which they held onto stubbornly until the bitter end. The interactions with Mark's family and siblings were my favorite parts.

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 Amish Homestead series . . .