Thursday, February 1, 2024

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Pages of Promise by Jessica Ashley

Pages of Promise JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Pages of Promise by Jessica Ashley, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Pages of Promise

Title: Pages of Promise
Series:
Coastal Hope #1
Author:
Jessica Ashley
Publisher: B.A.D. Publishing, LLC
Release Date:
February 5, 2024
Genre:
Christian/Clean Romantic Suspense

When Eliza's life is threatened, she turns to a handsome veteran for help. 

I left everything I'd ever known behind. And that decision may cost me my life. 

The moving truck hadn't even been unpacked when my fresh start went up in flames. 

A frightening letter left in my mailbox and signed Always Yours sends me running to the only man in town who can help me. 

Driven by his protective nature and a mission he believes comes from God, ex-Army Ranger Lance Knight agrees, despite the fact that I've made it no secret I want nothing to do with him--or anyone for that matter. 

The longer we're together, the more I begin to realize that Lance is more than I gave him credit for. Something that troubles me nearly as much as the fact that an unknown man seems to have already claimed me as his. 

Trouble is, my admirer has a jealous side, and it's not long before Lance is pulled into the crosshairs right alongside me…  

Get your copy now and be ready to stay up all night!  

Pages of Promise is a swoon-worthy, faith-based, suspenseful romance between a jaded woman and the hero determined to protect not just her body…but her heart.  

PURCHASE LINKSGoodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

 

Excerpt


“There any of that left?”

I jolt at the sound of Lance’s voice then turn just in time to see Lance stroll into the kitchen. His arm is out of the sling, and I narrow my gaze at him. “If you put your arm back in the sling.”

His crooked grin twists my insides. “I’m supposed to stretch it.”

“Not yet, you’re not. There are still stitches in there. You were shot yesterday.”

Without another word, he turns and retrieves the sling from his office then slips it over his neck and slides his arm into it. “Coffee now? Please take mercy on me, Ms. Pierce.”

“Since you asked so nicely and it is your kitchen, after all.” Smiling is coming easier to me than it has in a long time, even with the threat against my life. Why? I’m not entirely sure, though I suspect it has a lot to do with the man standing before me. And I haven’t figured out what to make of that either.


About the Author

Jessica Ashley

After spending seven years in the Army, Jessica Ashley set out to write novels that would transport readers to new worlds and help them escape reality with messages of underdogs and swoon-worthy romance. After eight years of a successful writing career underneath two pen names, she felt her faith pulling her in a new direction.

Now, she writes sweet romance with messages of faith, hope, and the importance of trusting our hearts and the word of God. Her debut novel, Pages of Promise, is set to release in February 2024. 

She resides in Texas with her husband of twelve years, their three kids, a flock of chickens, an orange cat who thinks he runs the house, and three dogs who don't realize just how big they are. 

Connect with Jessica by visiting authorjessicaashley.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card!

Pages of Promise JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 29, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 5, 2024. Winners 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.

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Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Deadly Mountain Escape by Mary Alford

Deadly Mountain Escape JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Deadly Mountain Escape by Mary Alford, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Deadly Mountain Escape

Title: Deadly Mountain Escape
Author:
Mary Alford
Publisher:
Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date:
January 23, 2024
Genre:
Christian Romantic Suspense

Can this officer stop a trafficking ring? 

Or will deadly criminals stop her first? 

A search for a missing young woman becomes a nightmare for K-9 deputy Charlotte Walker when she stumbles on a trafficking ring and is captured. Death seems certain until she’s rescued by rancher Jonas Knowles. Together, they take shelter in the Amish community he left behind. But they can’t hide forever—not when the criminals are still after them and countless girls are at risk…  

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

 

 


Excerpt


An out of place noise had her stopping. “Did you hear something?” Charlotte’s eyes darted through the darkness looking for danger.

Jonas glanced around uneasily. “It’s coming from behind us.”

A second later, another sound came from their left, and then their right. With a sinking sensation, Charlotte realized they were surrounded. The enemy had found them and were closing in.



About the Author

Mary Alford

Mary Alford is a USA Today bestselling author who loves giving her readers the unexpected, combining unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots that result in stories the reader can't put down. Her titles have been finalists for several awards, including the Daphne Du Maurier, the Beverly, the Maggie, and the Selah. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog.

Connect with Mary by visiting maryalford.net to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a copy of Deadly Mountain Escape & a $50 Amazon gift card!

Deadly Mountain Escape JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 30, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 6, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for a print copy, ebook if outside US. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt

Their Inseparable Bond JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Their Inseparable Bond by Jill Weatherholt, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Their Inseparable Bond

Title: Their Inseparable Bond
Series:
K-9 Companions
Author: Jill Weatherholt
Publisher:
Love Inspired
Release Date:
January 23, 2024
Genre:
Contemporary Christian Romance

They’re a mismatched family… 

But their hearts line up just right 

Training service dogs is single dad Jake Beckett’s calling. He’s determined to train rambunctious puppy Callie to help his ailing friend Myrna live independently with her growing blindness. Myrna’s granddaughter, Olivia Hart, isn’t easily convinced, but Jake, his twins and Callie are an incredibly persuasive team. If Olivia agrees to give Callie a chance, will working with Jake risk her lifelong dreams?  

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

 

Excerpt

 

“I’m sorry I took Callie off the leash.” Olivia gazed at the animal. “If anything had happened to her, I would have never forgiven myself. Please, I hope you’ll accept my apology.”

Jake nodded. “There’s no need to apologize. I should have crated her, so let’s forget about it. The important thing is that we work together to get Callie trained, so that she can assist Myrna.” Jake looked down at Callie. “Are you ready to go home?”

Callie jumped to her feet and barked.

Jake turned to Olivia. “I think she’s hungry. Let’s head home.”

Olivia took quick, shallow breaths as they headed toward the SUV. Why did the thought of being alone in the car with Jake suddenly make her nervous?

Once inside, they both secured their seat belts. A spicy, masculine scent filled the air. Whatever their disagreements were about moving her grandmother, she couldn’t deny the man was easy on the eyes. Way too easy.



About the Author

Jill Weatherholt

Jill Weatherholt is an author of sweet, emotional, small-town romance novels that guarantee a happy ending.

She's sold over half a dozen sweet romance short stories to Woman's World Magazine
 
Raised in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., she now resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, but her heart belongs to Virginia. She holds a degree in Psychology from George Mason University and Paralegal Studies Certification from Duke University. 
 
She shares her life with her real-life hero and number one supporter. Their relationship grew on the golf course, and now they have one in their backyard. 
 
Jill believes in enjoying every moment of this journey because God has everything under control.

Connect with Jill by visiting jillweatherholt.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will win a print copy of Their Inseparable Bond and a $25 gift card.

Their Inseparable Bond JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 22, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 29, 2024. 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.

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Saturday, January 20, 2024

Review: The Ladies Rewrite the Rules Suzanne Allain



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

From the author of Mr. Malcolm's List comes a delightful romantic comedy set in Regency England about a widow who takes high society by storm.

Diana Boyle, a wealthy young widow, has no desire to ever marry again. Particularly not to someone who merely wants her for her fortune. 

So when she discovers that she’s listed in a directory of rich, single women she is furious, and rightly so. She confronts Maxwell Dean, the man who published the Bachelor’s Directory, and is horrified to find he is far more attractive than his actions have led her to expect. However, Diana is unmoved by Max’s explanation that he authored the list to assist younger sons like himself who cannot afford to marry unless it’s to a woman of means. 

She gathers the ladies in the directory together to inform them of its existence, so they may circumvent fortune hunters’ efforts to trick them into marriage. Though outraged, the women decide to embrace their unique position of power and reverse the usual gender roles by making the men dance to their tune. And together… the ladies rewrite the rules.


My Review

The title of this book filled me with anticipation, and the story did not disappoint! It was delightfully humorous, with vibrant characters and depth of emotion. I enjoyed the journey of Diana, Maxwell, and their friends as they navigate the rules of Society and how they redefined their roles and themselves.
 
According to society at the time, younger sons had few options for their future without lowering their societal class. One of those options was to marry a woman with a large dowry or independently wealthy, such as the widow of a rich man. Those who pursued this course were labelled "fortune hunters" and looked upon with suspicion. How was a woman to know that she was valued for more than her financial assets? That she would be treated as well after the marriage as during the courtship? Maxwell proved sincere in his desire to assist both the men and women in these circumstances, although some misused his directory, bringing the criticism, wrath, and retaliation of many of the women listed. I loved that these women met and bonded, even though there was an array of perspectives and opinions on courtship, marriage, and men. The women's actions to take control and turn the tables were fodder for the gossips, and they had a fine line to walk without falling over into disfavor or ruin. 
 
The story follows multiple characters who eventually pair off, but not before we see the layers peeled back and learn the motivations, nuances, and desires of those making up the ensemble cast. While there are a good number of ladies and gentlemen, a few are brought to the forefront as the focus, and the romance between each couple is sweet and genuine, filled with banter, misunderstandings, and reconciliations. Highly entertaining!

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.
 
 
About the Author

Suzanne Allain is a screenwriter who lived in New York and Beijing before returning to her hometown of Tallahassee, Florida, where she lives with her husband. Suzanne adapted her novel Mr. Malcolm’s List into a screenplay and it was made into a movie starring Freida Pinto, Theo James, Ṣọpẹ Dìrísù, and Zawe Ashton.

Website | X | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

 
PRAISE FOR THE LADIES REWRITE THE RULES

“Innovative…The novel’s true strength lies in the friendship between the bold heroines”— Publisher’s Weekly

“A fun, light-hearted Regency romp about changing society from the inside.”— Kirkus Reviews 
 
“Joyful, warm and witty, this is a delight of a book.”— All About Romance
 
 
 

Thursday, January 18, 2024

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: An Opportune Proposal by Ann Elizabeth Fryer

An Opportune Proposal JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for An Opportune Proposal by Ann Elizabeth Fryer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

An Opportune Proposal

Title: An Opportune Proposal
Series: The Butterton Brides #3
Author:
Ann Elizabeth Fryer
Publisher:
Independently Published
Release Date:
January 18, 2024
Genre:
Christian Historical/Regency Romance

Vicar's daughter Jane Hartford is invited to stay at Butterton Hall, the home of a distant cousin who promises to introduce her to polite society. When strange things begin to happen, Jane suspects that she isn't wanted at Butterton Hall after all. 

Questions abound as deaths increase. How is her life connected to those of the Banbury scandal? Who can she trust? And why is she now in danger? 

She finds an unlikely ally in Lord Camden's handsome solicitor as he makes a gallant effort to protect her. Will an opportune proposal keep her safe?  

Book series best enjoyed in order.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

 

 

Excerpt

 

He shook his head. “You would not be safe.” He continued, “At Lord Sherborne’s urging, I’ve purchased a common license.”

My breath caught. I repeated his words, “A common license?” He spoke of a union. Of marriage.

“It is only fair.” He pushed a hand through his hair again. “I’m the one who brought you here into this dark lair. I take full responsibility for your safety.”

My face burned. “I would not force you to suffer the consequence of an unwanted marriage.”

“Suffer?” Amusement bent around his lips. He bent to my ear. “I assure you, being married to you would be no trial.”

“We haven’t known each other but a few weeks, and yet—” I stumbled through the tangled vines of my thoughts and feelings.

He finished my sentence. “And yet I feel as though we’ve known each other forever. I’ve never met a better woman.” His voice grew serious and quiet. “Nor do I wish to meet another. You’re all I have ever hoped for.”

 

More Books In This Series

 


About the Author

Ann Elizabeth Fryer

Ann Elizabeth Fryer loves nothing more than using story and romance to relay the depths and graciousness of a Father who holds us securely in the palms of His hands. Daydreaming her surroundings from a young age, she's lived in historic homes most of her life and regularly participates in backyard archaeology. When she's not writing historical projects, her contemporary novels show a flavor of her forever-passion for all things old. Ann, her husband, and three children make their home in small-town Illinois where they can hear church bells keep time and tradition.

Connect with Ann by visiting annfryerwrites.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win paperback copies of all three books in the Butterton Brides series!

An Opportune Proposal JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 16, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 23, 2024. 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.

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Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton by Susan L. Tuttle

The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton by Susan L. Tuttle, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton

Title: The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton
Series:
The Treasures of Halstead Manor
Author:
Susan L. Tuttle
Publisher:
Kregel
Release Date: January 16, 2024
Genre:
Women's Fiction / Romance

In her search for a rare gem, will Everleigh end up uncovering the true treasure of her heart? 

Personal care nurse Everleigh Wheaton knows it only takes a few well-placed lies to ruin a reputation. She's experienced it time and time again. But there's a silver lining to repeatedly proving herself: she's confident and self-reliant. 

When she loses yet another job and an enigmatic stranger offers her a potential way out, she's game. After all, she loves a good mystery, and an invitation to visit the legendary Halstead Manor is irresistible. But she's not about to let her guard down--especially with the other women who received the same invitation. 

A strange voice on the phone tells them he's gathered the three of them to work together as treasure hunters. The first assignment requires Everleigh to be a traveling nurse for retired FBI agent Gertrude Levine, who has one cold case she just can't let go of: the Florentine diamond that went missing when the Austrian Empire fell. 

With Everleigh's keen ability to solve puzzles, Natalie Daughtry's vast knowledge of history, and Brooke Sumner's connections to the antiques world, they're bound to track down the diamond. Except that Gertie's nephew, Niles Butler, doesn't trust Everleigh's innocent act . . . even if he finds himself falling for her. Worse, Everleigh's walls of self-preservation may doom the entire team. 

Hints of real-life historical events combined with contemporary characters make this first book in the Treasures of Halstead Manor series a masterful blend of romance, mystery, and strong female friendships. Readers of authors like Denise Hunter and Nicole Deese who enjoy unfolding relationships and the organic discovery of God's love will relish this new series.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop

 

Excerpt


Until her debacle with Palmer this afternoon, the manor had been the hot topic. Speculation became that the Forsythes willed the home to their grandchildren in Scotland, which is why it remained vacant. For a brief stint in the nineties and another in the early two thousands, the house held signs of life, although the town never saw whoever inhabited it. Then, earlier this year, the doors opened once more. Renovations began taking place. Lights shone through the windows at night. But again, the new owner remained an unknown. Had someone purchased the home? Did it still remain in the Forsythe family? Though theories ran rampant, no one had learned the name of the person behind Halstead Manor’s reawakening.

She held up the thick white card, zeroing in on the signature. If she had to guess, the person bringing life back to the manor was named Caspar. And she had between now and tomorrow morning to collect any information she could on him. She loved a good puzzle, and this invitation presented her with one she had every intention of solving. 



About the Author

Susan L Tuttle

Susan L. Tuttle is a pastor's wife, mom, and the director of women's ministry at her church near Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her previous work includes the Count on Love series, and the Carol Award finalist Love You, Truly.

Connect with Susan by visiting susanltuttle.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed, print copy of The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton + book-themed goodies!

The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 15, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 22, 2024. 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.

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Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Book Tour & Review: The Lily of Ludgate Hill by Mimi Matthews




My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

Fortune favors the bold—but is a confirmed spinster daring enough to loosen the reins and accept a favor from the wicked gentleman who haunts her dreams?

Lady Anne Deveril doesn’t spook easily. A woman of lofty social standing known for her glacial beauty and starchy opinions, she’s the unofficial leader of her small group of equestriennes. Since her mother’s devastating plunge into mourning six years ago, Anne voluntarily renounced any fanciful notions of love and marriage. And yet, when fate puts Anne back into the entirely too enticing path of Mr. Felix Hartford, she’s tempted to run…right into his arms.

No one understands why Lady Anne withdrew into the shadows of society, Hart least of all. The youthful torch he once held for her has long since cooled. Or so he keeps telling himself. But now Anne needs a favor to help a friend. Hart will play along with her little ruse—on the condition that Anne attend a holiday house party at his grandfather’s country estate. No more mourning clothes. No more barriers. Only the two of them, unrequited feelings at last laid bare.

Finally free to gallop out on her own, Anne makes the tantalizing discovery that beneath the roguish exterior of her not-so-white knight is a man with hidden depths, scorching passions—and a tender heart.

My Review

I loved the dynamic between Anne and Hart! It's like a combo second chance romance/enemies to lovers story. There are a variety of complications that they are each dealing with in their own lives, and it's when they begin to help instead of hinder that their banked feelings flare back to life. Family loyalty is strong in both- Anne with placating her long-grieving eccentric mother, and Hart with secretly supporting his father's mistress and children through the stain of trade. Anne has her friends to turn to, but Hart has been shouldering his burdens on his own, until he impulsively confides in Anne. While their strong feelings for each other have always been there, there are past hurts and misunderstandings that need to be resolved and forgiven before they can move on to begin afresh in their romance. I was glued to the pages through their obstacles and adventures, easily connecting with their emotions. I'm so excited for Stella's story in the next 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.

Don't miss the previous books in the Belles of London series . . .
 

 
About the Author


USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.



VICTORIAN READING ROOM

Join Mimi at her Victorian Reading Room Facebook Group for exclusive access as she shares her love of writing, historical romance, Victorian fashion, brooding heroes, independent heroines, and of course, her beloved pets!


ADVANCE PRAISE

“It is truly a wonder how Matthews can consistently craft fresh romances featuring unique, multidimensional characters who face huge obstacles to their relationships. [A] lovely story of secrets and love lost and found.”— Booklist (starred review)

“Sparkling…Historical romance fans are sure to be moved.”— Publishers Weekly

“Matthews delivers another richly detailed and emotionally tender closed-door romance.”— Kirkus Reviews

“An engaging series installment offering a second chance at love to a spunky heroine and a hero with hidden depths.”— Library Journal

“No one writes Victorian romance like Mimi Matthews, and her Belles of London series just keeps getting better! "— Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author

“Mimi is truly a national treasure. All of her books are filled with such delicious chemistry and heart, and her writing is superb. This one is another winner. Highly recommend.”—Isabel Ibañez, #1 New York Times bestselling author of What the River Knows

 

 

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Review: Windsong Manor by Julie Wright



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

A young widow. A gentle stable master. A secret that could change everything. Will Nora dare risk her heart?

The London Countryside, 1820

Eleanora Coventry comes from a life of title and privilege, but even that isn’t enough to prevent her from being wed at sixteen to a controlling and dismissive husband. So when she finds herself a widow at only twenty-seven, the idea of choosing her own path forward both thrills and terrifies her. She knows how to be a daughter and a wife and mother, but she has no idea how to be Eleanora.

She moves her son and daughter to her late husband’s country estate, where she meets Ridley, the young stable master. He is ruggedly handsome, but also kind, and Eleanora finds herself drawn to him. There is only one problem: Eleanora has a title, and Ridley does not.

Ridley Ellis has a way with horses. Even the most spirited stallions trust his soft voice and gentle touch. He has the same effect on people, and when he first lays eyes on Eleanora, he is smitten by her beauty. But he quickly discovers it will take more than soft words to gain her trust—Lord Coventry had been cruel to people and animals alike. But the closer he gets to Eleanora, the more he is willing to share his heart, and more importantly, his secret.

In a world where title and privilege mean everything, will Eleanora and Ridley risk it all to find happiness? Or will the shadows of their pasts destroy everything they hope to build together?


My Review

This is such a lovely story of healing and restitution as Eleanora rehabilitates her defiant and arrogant son along with her husband's recently orphaned illegitimate daughter. Windsong Manor is a refuge from the influences that have poisoned her son's mind, and while her progress is slow, she can sense what is right for him. I admired her fortitude in taking in her husband's daughter, providing her not just with shelter, but eventually with compassion and love. The stablemaster Ridley is such a strong influence for good in each of their lives. He's humble, yet confident, and has a way of putting things in perspective and providing encouragement and support in becoming their best selves. I loved the relationships he developed with Eleanora and her children, and his protective nature as they face trials. All along there is a sense that Ridley is more than what he seems, and I was gratified with how it all worked out in the end.

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.


Once Upon a Dickens Christmas by Michelle Griep



My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

Three Delightful Christmas Tales from Beloved Storyteller Michelle Griep
 
Pour yourself a cuppa, get lost in the merriment of the season, and enjoy a Dickensian Christmas in three stories from fan favorite Michelle Griep:
 
12 Days at Bleakly Manor
Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they’ve been striving for isn’t what ultimately matters. What matters most is what Christmas is all about . . . love.
 
A Tale of Two Hearts
Pleasure seeker William Barlow needs a wife immediately to gain his uncle’s inheritance, and Mina Scott is just the girl to make him look respectable—too bad she turns him down. Ought he give her a second chance?
 
The Old Lace Shop
Recently widowed Bella White is finally freed from the domination of the overbearing men in her life, but when she enters into a business partnership with the handsome Edmund Archer, she begins to wonder if marriage is worth a second chance.

My Review

I enjoyed reading these three stories that have a strong Dickens vibe of Victorian England, focusing on individuals who are struggling, especially of the middle and lower classes. The plots were engaging and the characters interesting. I didn't quite connect with their emotions, but was interested in how each story would turn out. The settings are easy to envision with the author's descriptions and the historical details. A trio of holiday tales that complement each other well.

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.