Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay


http://www.wishfulendings.com/2017/03/i-cant-wait-for-life-after-by-katie.html



http://amzn.to/2nAuUCd


Ever since her debut novel Dear Mr. Knightley, I've been a huge fan of Katherine Reay's writing. It's thoughtful, deep, and introspective like women's fiction, but with elements of romance and hope that I can't do without ;) I feel transported while reading her books and when I'm done I feel like I've been on a remarkable journey with the characters. Her last book A Portrait of Emily Price was especially amazing! I'm so excited to read her next book The Austen Escape which will release this November.

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Synopsis

After years of following her best friend’s lead, Mary Davies finds a whimsical trip back to Austen’s Regency England paves the way towards a new future.

Mary Davies lives and works in Austin, Texas, as an industrial engineer. She has an orderly and productive life, a job and colleagues that she enjoys—particularly a certain adorable, intelligent, and hilarious consultant. But something is missing for Mary. When her estranged and emotionally fragile childhood friend Isabel Dwyer offers Mary a two-week stay in a gorgeous manor house in Bath, Mary reluctantly agrees to come along, in hopes that the holiday will shake up her quiet life in just the right ways. But Mary gets more than she bargained for when Isabel loses her memory and fully believes that she lives in Regency England. Mary becomes dependent on a household of strangers to take care of Isabel until she wakes up.

With Mary in charge and surrounded by new friends, Isabel rests and enjoys the leisure of a Regency lady. But life gets even more complicated when Mary makes the discovery that her life and Isabel’s have intersected in more ways that she knew, and she finds herself caught between who Isabel was, who she seems to be, and the man who stands between them. Outings are undertaken, misunderstandings play out, and dancing ensues as this triangle works out their lives and hearts among a company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation.





Monday, March 27, 2017

Review & Giveaway: Sweet is the Work by Breanna Olaveson


Heidi Reads... Sweet is the Work by Breanna Olaveson

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

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Synopsis

Young women serving as missionaries today are carrying on a noble legacy of faith and dedication that extends back to the early days of the Church. But who were the brave women who paved the way for modern-day sister missionaries? In Sweet Is the Work, author Breanna Olaveson delves into a previously unexplored history that demonstrates the unique ability of women to carry out the errand of angels. Discover the powerful experiences of twelve of the earliest sister missionaries, from the first single proselytizing women in 1898 to some of the well-known sisters in Church history who were themselves pioneering missionaries. The women highlighted in this volume demonstrate the valiant and noble history of sister missionaries in an account that is sure to inspire readers to boldly go forth to share the truths of the gospel.

My Review

This is a slim volume containing brief histories of the first female missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and women who shared the gospel in the capacity of their service. It was interesting to see how differently the church operated in the early days and the evolution of its organization. The trials and journeys of these sisters are inspiring and they are wonderful examples worthy of admiration and emulation. I especially enjoyed learning about Mildred E. Randall who served in the Hawaiian islands since I recently took my first trip there and was able to visit the temple on Oahu and learned some history of the first converts in the visitor's center there. I think the volume would have been more well-rounded if it had included words of testimony from the individuals but instead it focused on historical facts and accomplishments. I missed the spirit that declarations of faith bring. Overall is was fascinating and would be a thoughtful gift to any young woman or sister preparing to serve a mission, as well as a nice addition to your personal gospel library.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)


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March 27th
Heidi Reads...
March 31st
Singing Librarian Books

Thursday, March 23, 2017

Review: Courting Carrie in Wonderland by Carla Kelly


Heidi Reads... Courting Carrie in Wonderland by Carla Kelly

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

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Synopsis

Struggling through college and balancing her summer job in Yellowstone Park with the Wylie Camping Company, Carrie McKay simply doesn't have time to consider romance. Spanish American War Veteran Sergeant Major Ramsay Stiles also isn't looking for love, busy with his own complicated affairs. But as the magic of Yellowstone starts making its way into their hearts, both begin to see love move up their priority list

My Review

My husband and I love to visit National Parks, so I was especially intrigued that this story was set in Yellowstone's early days as a National Park. The policies regarding animals, the road construction and bridge building, and the presence of the army made it a much different place than it is today. Still other aspects were recognizable- the loveliness of the wilderness, the geysers, the pervading sulfur smell, and the joy of camping. The story moved a bit slowly for me, but the blossoming relationship between Carrie and Ramsay moved things along and since I've always enjoyed the author's historical perspective and unique voice, I decided to sit back and just enjoy the trip ;) Carrie and Ramsay both have experienced trauma and the peace and light they bring each other make their relationship a special one. I liked the circumstances that allowed them to spend more time together, escorting a retired Broadway star who is superior and demanding, yet hides a sensitive past. The way Carrie and Ramsay deal with her show their deeper characteristics- dignity, compassion, and humor. The sweet banter and understanding between the two make their romance just lovely.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

About the Author

Carla Kelly is a veteran of the New York and international publishing world. The author of more than thirty novels and novellas for Donald I. Fine Co., Signet, and Harlequin, Carla is the recipient of two Rita Awards (think Oscars for romance writing) from Romance Writers of America and two Spur Awards (think Oscars for western fiction) from Western Writers of America. She is also a recipient of a Whitney Award for “Borrowed Light,” “My Loving Vigil Keeping,” and “Softly Falling.”

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Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Review: Unexpected Love: A Marriage of Convenience Anthology by Heather Chapman, Paula Kremser, Mandi Ellsworth, Ashtyn Newbold


Heidi Reads... Unexpected Love: A Marriage of Convenience Anthology by Heather Chapman, Paula Kremser, Mandi Ellsworth, Ashtyn Newbold

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

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Synopsis

Around the turn of the century, matches were made for all sorts of reasons--whether to keep a family together or simply to make ends meet. But love has a way of turning up in the most unexpected places! With four historical romance stories in one, this fun anthology will sweep you from the dance floors of aristocracy to the hearths of country living, leading to love through the most unusual circumstances.

Ashbrook Abbey by Heather Chapman
Though decidedly against marriage, when Ambrose Notley discovers it may win him his uncle's good opinion (and his inheritance), he marries the orphaned Kate Mowbray. But will Kate be able to break down the walls that Ambrose has built around himself?

First Comes Marriage by Paula Kremser
When Letty's sister and husband unexpectedly die, a greedy uncle threatens to steal custody of the children and their money. David, Letty's brother-in-law, marries Letty in the hopes of retaining custody of their niece and nephew. But will this love for show become something deeper?

The Price of Her Heart by Mandi Ellsworth
When Faith McKinney witnesses a crime she shouldn't have seen, she's forced into hiding to protect her own life.As part of this, her uncle arranges her marriage to small-town sheriff Geoffrey. But when the men searching for her find Geoffrey as well, will he be able to protect her?

Beauty and the Beholder by Ashtyn Newbold
When a marriage arranged by chance brings Fanny and Percy together, they quickly learn that clashing personalities and battles of wit are not a recipe for a happy match. How could a marriage between quick enemies ever result in something such as love? But fate has a way of bringing even the most unlikely hearts together...

My Review

What a sweet collection of novellas! I love the marriage of convenience theme since it shows how two people can grow together in an often difficult and unusual situation. I enjoyed each story equally- I wasn't able to pick a favorite, but that's a good thing ;) The individuals in the stories were well fleshed out and had depth and a unique voice. I liked seeing the variety of writing styles from the authors and the settings were interesting as well- two were set in England, one was a western, and one was in New York. The romances are clean and heartfelt, with emotion and hope in the midst of the characters' desperation. I love stories like these that offer a sweet journey to happily-ever-after.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)


“Unexpected Love” blog tour schedule:

Monday, March 20, 2017

Review: Love's Shadow by Nichole Van


Heidi Reads... Love's Shadow by Nichole Van

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

*Love's Shadow and the first book in the series, Gladly Beyond, are currently free for Kindle Unlimited subscribers!*

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Synopsis

Branwell D'Angelo . . .
Six years ago, I fell in love with Lucy--my brother's girlfriend. Stupid of me, I know, but sometimes the heart doesn't listen to reason.
Six years, I've lived on the sidelines. Seeing him love her, be with her, bask in her sunshine . . .
I watched her break his heart and then cleaned up the shattered pieces of him she left behind.
She's the one woman I can't have but still the only one my soul wants.
Now she's back in our lives and needs the unique help only us D'Angelos can give.
He's not emotionally strong enough to face her. So he's sending me instead . . .


For her part, when tragedy strikes Lucy Snow on a visit to Italy, she can't bring herself to call any of the D'Angelo brothers for help. There are consequences for falling in love with your ex-boyfriend's brother. But Lucy desperately needs Branwell's paranormal skills and his gift of Sight. And if seeing him will negate at least three years of therapy? Well, it's a price she is willing to pay.

Thrown together in a desperate bid to save an innocent life, Branwell and Lucy struggle against their shared past, only to realize that something even more dangerous is reaching through the weight of time to stalk their every move . . .

Though the second book in the Brothers Maledetti series, Love's Shadow is a full-length, stand alone novel.


My Review

The first book in the series, Gladly Beyond, was pretty amazing and made my list for favorites of 2016. This second book did not disappoint and I loved it just as much! Full of emotion, heartache, love, and hope, it brings out all the feels and I shed a few tears while reading. I loved the connection between Bran and Lucy, despite both of them thinking they harbored an unrequited love for each other. There are so many fun quirky details that really make their relationship come to life. The paranormal aspect of the plot isn't too over the top and is based in the family's history, so the modern setting wasn't too much of a contrast for the things Lucy and the D'Angelo family are experiencing, perhaps because it's set in Italy. The supernatural gift/curse that the brothers have form a bond between them and the dynamics are complicated and fascinating. I already can't wait to read more!!!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Don't miss the first book in the Brothers Maledetti series, Gladly Beyond:

Heidi Reads... Gladly Beyond by Nichole Van

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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Synopsis

An ancient curse, fractured at the birth of three brothers.
Two strangers helplessly drawn to each other.
A love story two hundred years in the making.


Claire Raythorn arrives in Florence, Italy, shattered, alone, and anxious to rebuild her life--preferably one without men. But she soon finds herself hunted and haunted-- literally--when a mysterious stalker dressed like Mr. Darcy from BBC central casting appears in her photos. And only her photos. Who is this man? And what does his ghostly presence mean?

Dante D'Angelo simply wants to safeguard his brothers, despite the family curse that hounds his vision. But then Claire Raythorn walks into his life, untouched somehow by his curse. Soon, everything Dante thought he knew about himself starts to unravel, dragging Claire down with him.

Set against the lush backdrop of Florence, Italy--both past and present--Claire and Dante fight for a future together. But, first, they must uncover their shared past . . .

Review & Giveaway! Condemn Me Not: Accused of Witchcraft by Heather B. Moore


Heidi Reads... Condemn Me Not: Accused of Witchcraft by Heather B. Moore

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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Synopsis

“This woman was one of the most impudent, scurrilous, wicked creatures of this world; and she did now throughout her whole trial discover herself to be such a one. Yet when she was asked what she had to say for herself, her chief plea was that she had led a most virtuous and holy life.” —Reverend Cotton Mather, 1692

USA Today Bestselling author Heather B. Moore brings the life of her 10th great-grandmother to center stage. Susannah North Martin, accused of witchcraft in 1692, joins five women in the Salem Jail, all sentenced to death for their crimes. Amidst tragedy, Susannah finds hope and compassion as she remembers a well-loved life, and readers discover that love reaches far beyond the grave as Susannah faces the magistrates in Salem.


My Review

This in an incredible telling of two phases of Susannah Martin's life. It alternated between her time as a young adult when she met her husband, their romance, and early days of their marriage, and her incarceration in her 70's when she was accused and convicted of witchcraft. My favorite parts were the happy times of course, Susannah's relationship with George was a bit unexpected since she was looking forward to being a spinster, but his charm and teasing won her over eventually (not to mention his kisses) ;) There is a real sense of what the times were like back then, the Puritan way of life in a small and gossipy community. The more difficult parts were learning significant historical details behind the volatile period where people would accuse others of witchcraft out of ignorance, but more often for revenge, monetary gain, or power in the community. It was both fascinating and upsetting that such madness occurred in our country's early history. I couldn't help but think that there are still echoes of this in today's society, where reputations can be ruined with a word, and lives destroyed through the cruelness of others. I'm glad that I read this book and it gave me more compassion for those who suffered horribly from injustice. The ending was inspiring and despite the heaviness of the experiences of Susannah in the jail, there is an underlying current of faith in spite of the hopelessness that strengthened her and those around her. Highly recommend!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

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Sunday, March 19, 2017

Spotlight, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Wedding March by Tara Randel


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

The Wedding March
(The Business of Weddings #4)
Tara Randel
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
March 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

The help only he can offer…

Cypress Pointe, Florida, is a long way from LA, where pop singer Cassie Branford needs a hit to prove she's not a two album wonder. But her case of writer's block could be over when the struggling songwriter meets Luke Hastings at a family wedding.

The legendary musician walked away from success at the height of his career. Yet Luke is already inspiring Cassie with his dedication to building a permanent community outreach center for troubled teens. Volunteering to help bring music into these kids' lives is also bringing her and Luke closer. Maybe they're not as different as he thinks…

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Excerpt

“We aren’t talking about me.”
“Maybe we should.”
Her steady gaze held his. His heart pounded. This close, he could see the distinctive shade of green mocking his words. She knew, maybe even better than he did.
“Talent like yours doesn’t go away,” she echoed.
“Maybe it should.”
The words hung between them. Time stilled as his blood raced. How had she managed to resurrect this one painful aspect of his life? How had she focused on the fact that while he said he wouldn’t write again, the ability had never turned off? His brain still formed tempos and lyrics, even though he ruthlessly pushed them away every time they surfaced. For two years he’d lived without admitting the truth to himself. And now, by encouraging Cassie to deal with her fears, he was forced to confront his own.
This was why he hadn’t wanted to make a deal with her. Yet at the same time, was secretly glad he did.
With so little space between them, he looked down at her lips. What would she do if he crossed the line? Kissed her as a way of changing the subject.
Find out, his inner voice taunted.
He moved that last fraction closer, his lips hovering over hers. And still she stayed put, as if waiting to see if he would carry out his intentions. So he did.
His lips covered hers, silencing her gasp. He moved slowly, savoring the unexpected delight. The air around them grew heavy as he coaxed a trembling response from her. Adrenaline buzzed through his system, much like the feeling he experienced when a melody came together. Only this wasn’t a song. This was Cassie. Alive and in the flesh. Returning his kiss now with the enthusiasm he’d seen when she performed on stage. A passion he couldn’t deny. Or fight.
One of her hands moved over his, satiny soft as she twined their fingers together. The kiss continued. Slow and unhurried. Until a shout from the gym reminded him that his office door was wide open. Everyone and their brother could get a gander of him kissing the pop artist who’d come to the Klub to volunteer her time to the kids, not him.
He snapped back to his senses, jerking away from her.
Smooth, Hastings.
 Other Books in the Series

  

About the Author


USA Today Bestselling Author Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. Family values, mystery and, of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery.


Tour Schedule

March 12th: Launch

Tour Giveaway


- US PRIZE PACK: Signed copies of the first three books in The Business of Weddings series by Tara Randel, a $25 gift card for Dunkin’ Donuts, a coffee mug with an inspirational message: "Something beautiful is on the horizon," and a Harlequin Heartwarming tote bag. (US only)
- $25 Amazon eCard (open internationally)
- Ends March 28th