Review: Coming Home to Maverick by Sophia Summers

 

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Bailey is back. Maverick thought he was over her. But neither can deny the feelings that will always be there.

Bailey has made mistakes, so many she doesn't think she'll really ever forgive herself. But her daughter deserves the kind of life Bailey had growing up. When she shows up on her parents' doorstep back to her hometown, the one person she isn't ready to see is Maverick. But will she ever be able to face him?

The minute Maverick hears Bailey is back, he knows his heart still belongs to her. But what kind of man trusts a woman who left him at the altar? As he grapples with a new daughter that he can't help but wish was his, all the responsibilities of running his family's ranch, and the hurt he feels about Bailey's betrayal, he finds new love and hope not only with her but with God.

As soon as God is a part of the equation, the sweetness they find is better than they ever had. Just maybe this second chance around is God's gift of happiness to them both.

My Review

This is a feel-good second chance romance set in small-town Texas. There are strong themes of homecoming and forgiveness as Bailey reconnects with the family and friends she left behind with no word or explanation. While it's understandable that she had wanted to chase her dreams of being a singer, I didn't get why she ghosted people she had such good and strong relationships with. She does an awful good job of self-flagellation for her bad choices now that she's back home, and her parents and Maverick are both encouraging of her turning things over to God for healing. The characters seem almost too good to be true, and the slower pace of the story matches the setting, making it a relaxing read.

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

Review: Molly by Sarah Monzon

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I absolutely refuse to tell a lie no matter the consequences. So don’t ask me a direct question unless you’re prepared for a direct answer—that’s something my SoCal sewing girlfriends have learned the hard way.  

But who would have thought my honesty policy would get me fired from my job at the preschool? Or that a desperate—and not to mention devastatingly handsome—single father of one of my (now-former) students would hire me that same day as a nanny for his daughter?  

I’m an education professional. How hard can taking care of a four-year-old and her over-stressed, over-worked father be?

My Review

So. Funny. I loved Molly's voice! Fresh, quirky, self-aware, and self-accepting. The honesty policy sounds like a good life rule... until you quickly learn how convenient it can be to bend the truth in uncomfortable situations- like the one that got Molly fired. Ironically, her candid, scientific answer about body functions also gets her hired by the handsome and desperate doctor to care for his precocious daughter. Of course, attraction ensues while Molly becomes an integral part of the little family, though not without some all-too-realistic mishaps. I liked how the author shows how Molly's childhood experiences have influenced the importance of integrity in her life. The story is told from both Molly and Ben's first person POV, which made it interesting and fun to get in Ben's head as well. Recommend to fans of clean contemporary romance and especially those who loved The Match by Sarah Adams.

 

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

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Don't miss the next book in the Sewing in SoCal series . . .

Coming October 2020

 

Synopsis

WWSOD—What would Scarlett O’Hara do?
 

Anything to survive, that’s what. But instead of a man-eating Southern belle in hoop skirts and big hats, my version of existence looks an awful lot like a financial conglomerate employee staring blankly at budget analysis spreadsheets. Either way, the motto has served me well most my life. Until now, that is. The corporate retreat location has just been announced, and this city girl is headed to a dude ranch in the country. How will Scarlett help me survive that? No, this time I’ll turn to the sage advice of preteen YouTubers and their ponies to keep me from making a fool of myself.
 

But who’s going to help me navigate the kind yet reticent cowboy in the black Stetson—the cattle ranch owner who’s slowly claiming corners of my heart?

Review: A Well-Trained Lady by Jess Heileman

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Arabella Godwin is an Incomparable in London Society—elegant, wealthy, and meticulously trained. Yet, she has nothing to show for her efforts aside from her pretentious reputation and a collection of disappointed suitors. When her plan to secure a promising offer of marriage is temporarily delayed, she must bide her time in the company of an estranged childhood friend—the much-too-endearing, but regrettably untitled, Augustus Brundage.

As the friends’ tattered relationship returns to familiarity, Arabella must prevent herself from fully regressing into the carefree, impressionable young lady who once foolishly trusted Augustus with her heart. To make the same mistake again would ruin everything she has worked for—and certainly more.

But, can a heart be so easily trained?

My Review

Arabella drove me a just little crazy! Once she slowly sheds the insincere society persona she had embraced due to her mother's influence, she becomes actually likeable, and I could see why Augustus had fallen in love with her and was willing to give her another chance. She reminds me a bit of Jane Austen's Emma as she gives lessons to Ruth, trying to help improve her manners, when really Ruth has the important characteristics Arabella would do well to emulate. Augustus and Arabella have such fun banter, which were my favorite parts. Family secrets come to light and complicate Arabella's future, right when she was so close to grasping happiness. I was all tied in a knot as Arabella is caught between her parents and their own private agendas. This book had plenty of ups, downs, and twists leading to a perfectly satisfying happily-ever-after.

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

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Don't miss the other books in the Seasons of Change series . . .

Review: Love's Mountain Quest by Misty M. Beller

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Young widow Joanna Watson is struggling to make a new home for her five-year-old son, Samuel, in the little mountain town of Settler's Fort. When she returns home from work to find Samuel and the woman watching him missing, with no lawman in town, she enlists a man she prays has enough experience in this rugged country to help.

Isaac Bowen wants nothing more than a quiet, invisible life in these mountains, far away from the bad decisions of his past. But he has a strong suspicion of who's behind the kidnapping, and if he's right, he knows all too well the evil they're chasing.

As they press on against the elements, Joanna fights to hold on to hope, while Isaac knows a reckoning is coming. They find encouragement in the tentative trust that grows between them, but whether it can withstand the danger and coming confrontation is far from certain in this wild, unpredictable land.

My Review

Boy, this one jumped right into the action! I felt like I quickly got to know Joanna and Isaac quickly through their actions and thoughts as they desperately search for her kidnapped son and friend. We experience the author's trademark perilous journey through the wilderness with various dangers and trying conditions. I was surprised that tracking the outlaws took up so much of the book, but it turned out that this was a long game situation since Isaac had a secret past that gave them an advantage in the pursuit. It's a mixed blessing since it brings more issues for Joanna to deal with after she's fallen for the rugged mountain man- overcoming mistrust and relying on the good man he is now. The scenes with the outlaws and Laura, the young woman they are holding captive, are a bit disturbing, which heightens the tension and suspense. I appreciated the spiritual message of turning to God in faith during our darkest hours, and also the theme of redemption and forgiveness. I'm glad that the next book in the series is about Laura so we can see her healing process from all she went through.

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

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Don't miss the other books in the Hearts of Montana series . . .

Review: The Light Within by A.L. Weston

My rating: 2 stars / It was okay

Synopsis

At the end of the sixteenth century in Ireland, a Scottish clan took over Dunluce Castle, claiming it for their own in hopes of unifying the Irish and the Scottish. Secrets and lies are held within its walls, but love shook through the cracks, gasping to unleash.

Catriona O’Brien is a daughter and a storyteller. Through the tales told by the light of the fire each night, Cat basks in the idea of unseen worlds. When Catriona and her friends share a mystical experience as children, Cat’s life is changed. As she grows older, she frequently ponders the mystery she still doesn’t understand, letting its influence guide her.

When a mysterious stranger from the castle comes to hide in her shed, Catriona is forced on a journey that leads her to an understanding of what her heart desires. But her stranger’s secrets run deep. Will their love be enough to break through the deceit? Or will duty and responsibility destroy their love?

An enchanting tale of love through an unlikely turn of events that could alter the history of their clan...

My Review

I was really intrigued by the premise of this book and was excited to try out a new-to-me author. Unfortunately, it turned out to be not my cup of tea. I enjoyed the characters in the beginning, especially Catriona's devotion to her family. But it was difficult for me to get into the story since so much of it was ambiguous and mysterious, with no real answers forthcoming. Instead of making me curious, I ended up losing interest. The writing style was mostly telling, in a first person POV alternating between Cat and Brogan. I found it odd that major aspects of the characters stayed a secret when it was told from their inner thoughts. This one ended up being a pass for me.

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

Book Tour Grand Finale: A Bridge Home by Virginia McCullogh #BHPrism

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

. . . Even more than A FAMILY FOR JASON and THE CHRISTMAS KISS, A BRIDGE HOME is a multigenerational story about the longing for home, family, and love that will last. Maybe at its heart, Amy and Eric’s story is about the power of believing in ourselves and each other. Be sure to enter the drawing!

—Virginia

Christy's Cozy Corners - Excerpt

Amy smiled and exhaled. She’d been holding her breath and didn’t even know it. “I trust you, Eric. My reluctance to open up is about me.” She let out a nervous snicker. “Who wants to talk about their failures?”

He didn’t respond in words, but gave her an understanding look.

Jorie Loves A Story - Review

"Everything was percolating so well in this installment - from how the community was rallying together to discuss their future plans for development and to how Amy needed to find her footing in her choices to return to Bluestone River. Even Eric was at a crossroads in his life wherein he needed to sort through what was motivating him and the choices he needed to be making. . . This is a story about choices and owning them once they are made as everyone needs a boost of confidence at different junctions of their lives. . . . What keeps you rooted in the series is the familiar way in which McCullough makes you feel like you've gone home yourself - Back to Bluestone River!"

My Life Loves and Passion - Excerpt

“So smart to wear sunglasses on this bright, sunny day,” Amy said, taking a final picture of Eric and Cassie looking triumphant standing with the snow lady between them. She sent a couple of her best photos to Eric’s phone. “Her crossed legs and shoes make her very special, Cassie.”

“I love her,” Cassie exclaimed, clapping her hands and jumping up and down. “She’s Miss Sparkle, the best snow lady ever.”

Remembrancy - Review

". . . the romance is engaging. What really makes this series enjoyable is the way the town is coming together to re-energize their home and bring visitors in. From the covered bridge to the charity bike ride to the Fourth of July parade, something is always being cooked up, and you can’t help but feel the excitement and energy."

Books and Zebras - Review

"Virginia McCullough wraps up her Back To Bluestone River series with A Bridge Home: A Clean Romance. This book is part of the Heartwarming collection from Harlequin. If you are a fan of books one and two, you will not be disappointed with book three. . . . I found the story charming, witty, entertaining and compelling enough to have substance without being heavy. It's the right balance of serious and humorous together with likeable characters that make A Bridge Home an excellent read. And, it's a clean story, which are hard to find these days. Romance readers will enjoy this book!"

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"This is a familiar scenario of life in a small town. Many of the youth are anxious to leave, yet often, it is the place they return to. . . . This is a wonderful small town story with typical small town dilemmas. It is a relaxing drama with a few "twists"."

Nicole's Book Musings - Review

"I love this series. Full of make you televised stories. There is plenty of heart and feels. At times this book will hit you in the heart and get a little teary. . . . I loved Eric and Amy. Eric finally gets his chance, but he has to be patient and weather the little storms that come their way."

Book Lover in Florida - Excerpt

“That’s me and Miss Sparkle at the Snowball Fair,” Cassie said. “Remember, we got the Special Mention ribbon and we had burgers and fries.”

“Oh, I do recall that day. As a matter of fact, I have the same picture on my fridge.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really. And I also remember you and your mom feeding an apple to one of the horses.”

Splashes of Joy - Review

"This small town was special in the way they pulled together to save their heritage. A town I would love to live in. . . . . There is so much more going on in this story and author Virginia McCullough does an amazing job of weaving it all together to make A Bridge Home the Heartwarming story it is. If you enjoy a good clean Romance, I am sure you will love this one. And check out the other books in this series by Virginia McCullough. They are the same Heartwarming romance as this one is."

underneath the covers - Excerpt

She took a deep breath. Yikes, she was overreacting. Her past with Scott had triggered this anger and was bleeding into her exchange with Eric. She forced a smile. “Let’s just say my feelings about the bridge are about what, in my opinion, is good for the town.” She pointed toward the wooden mess. “I admit I have a certain emotional attachment to it. But I’m beginning to understand why some people in town don’t feel the same way.”

“Well, that’s good.” His blue eyes softened. “I do have a fondness for some old things,” he said, smiling now. “I care enough to invest my savings into rehabbing a worn-out eyesore of a house.”

 

Reading Is My SuperPower - Review

"A Bridge Home is another great installment in this series. You will be invested in the town’s bridge, in the town itself, and in the characters who take center stage this time around. McCullough seamlessly weaves in witty dialogue, emotional dimension, and swoony romance, making this a book you won’t easily put down until you’ve turned the last page."

Pause for Tales - Review

"This is a gentle love story of second chances of the sort. Amy letting go of past mistakes and Eric finally, maybe getting the chance with Amy he has always wanted. Throw in a little family drama and you have yourself a heartfelt read."

Hallie Reads - Review

"A Bridge Home is another sweet addition to Virginia McCullough’s Back to Bluestone River series! . . . Naturally, living in a small town gives Eric and Amy plenty of opportunities to explore their feelings and the possibilities of their relationship. I so enjoyed getting to know them as they did so, in addition to revisiting the charming town. A Bridge Home proves to be a delightful read for anyone in need of some contemporary romance!"

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting - Review

"What a heartwarming, sweet romance story. This is the third book in the series. I have not read the other two books, but I did not have any issues following along. . . . I love how the author has touched on divorced kid issues. I am a product of a divorced family. My two younger boys are a product of a divorced family. I love how the story builds from this meeting.

This story contains well written characters, a original storyline and flows nicely."

Reading Excursions - Review

"Clean, wholesome, sweet read that tugs at the heartstrings and makes you want to get up and hug everyone! Messages of compromise, adjusting, and learning to trust are apparent; and McCullough creates a beautiful story that is realistic while being uplifting. . . . Those who’ve read the previous two novels and fans of the author will likely want to read this. Anyone who enjoys clean, wholesome, and a story with a beautiful ending will enjoy it as well."

Rincón de Joss - Excerpt

For the few minutes Cassie dabbed at her eyes Amy thought about how she wanted to respond. If the boys were being that mean, and she had a feeling the story was true, she had to choose her words even more carefully. She refused to make her daughter feel bad about reacting to anyone taunting Lottie, but she couldn’t allow her to shove other kids.

“I believe you, honey, about the boys being mean, but you can’t go around pushing people,” Amy said, exasperated. “No matter what.”

“I know.”

Andi's Book Reviews - Review

"This is the third book in this series, and I have been enjoying every single one of them. While it is a part of the series, it is very easily read as a standalone book. . . I really enjoyed this story. It was a perfect escape while sitting on the deck on a lovely summer morning with a latte in hand. I really hope there is more to this series, because you can be sure I will be picking it up as well!"

Bookish Jottings - Review

"Virginia McCullough’s A Bridge Home is a charming contemporary romance written with such warmth and heart that once readers start reading it, they will find themselves completely and utterly hooked. Tender, emotional, intense but uplifting and heart-warming, A Bridge Home is a delightful romantic read with an honorable hero, a kind-hearted and intelligent heroine and a beautifully rendered small town readers would just love to move to. . . a small-town romance that is hard to resist."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

A Bridge Home

(Back to Bluestone River #3)

By Virginia McCullough

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

August 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Will a new beginning…

Lead to forever?

What good is a home without a family? School principal Eric Wells finally has the house he’s always wanted, but a painful childhood makes him question his ability to be a father. So when his high school crush Amy Morgan returns to Bluestone River with her troubled daughter, he’s surprised to find he wants to be there for both of them. Will Amy finally give him a chance?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Target | Apple Books | Google Play | Kobo | Harlequin

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

About the Author

Born and raised in Chicago, Virginia McCullough has been lucky enough to develop her writing career in many locations, including the coast of Maine, the mountains of North Carolina, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and currently, Northeast Wisconsin. She started her career in nonfiction, first writing articles and then books as a ghostwriter and coauthor. She’s written more than 100 books for physicians, business owners, professional speakers and many others with information to share or a story to tell.

Virginia’s books feature characters who could be your neighbors and friends. They come in all ages and struggle with everyday life issues in small-town environments that almost always include water—oceans, lakes, or rivers. The mother of two grown children, you’ll find Virginia with her nose a book, walking on trails or her neighborhood street, or she may be packing her bag to take off for her next adventure. And she’s always working on another story about hope, healing, and second chances.

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Bookbub | Amazon | Newsletter

Tour Giveaway

1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card and a $25 Etsy eGift Card
Open internationally for those who are eligible
Ends August 12, 2020

ENTER HERE

Book Tour Grand Finale: Falling for the Innkeeper by Meghann Whistler

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What do you hope readers will take with them after they’ve read it?

I hope this book reminds readers that our pasts don’t have to define us. No matter how badly we’ve been hurt, no matter how long we’ve clung to false beliefs, we can choose to move forward and embrace love and light from this moment forward.

Among the Reads - Review

"While it would have been easy for the author to fall into the trap of giving easy answers and wiping away all the problems perfectly as they rode off into the sunset at the end, she didn’t. The resolution required compromise and while the conclusion was satisfactory, it did not end with everything perfect – making it more realistic and in my opinion, more enjoyable.

This sweet romance was just the right length and moved at just the right pace. . . . If you enjoy sweet romance, be sure to read Falling for the Innkeeper."

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"I love this story. It has situations good and bad that we all have to deal with in this life. I love the Inn and their little town on the cape. . . . I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy a good love story."

Labor Not in Vain - Review

"This is a heartwarming read, Jonathan and Laura are characters to cheer for throughout. I enjoyed the beautiful setting, and how well they worked together as their friendship grew. There's a lot to love about this book, with strong themes of faith and family, great character growth and interaction, as well as an absolutely adorable little girl. You won't want to miss it!"

Christy's Cozy Corners - Review

"Falling for the Innkeeper is an adorable story about finding love when you least expect it. It’s also about learning to compromise and give up what you thought you wanted for something even better. . . . I definitely think readers who enjoy inspirational love stories will be fans of Falling for the Innkeeper!"

I'm All About Books - Excerpt

Jonathan adjusted his tie and cuff links, the expensive ones he wore when he wanted to impress. Not that he expected a single mother to even notice his wardrobe. But it was like his battle armor. Look the part, play the part. Get. It. Done.

There were lights on inside the inn, which was a good sign. He left his suitcase in the car, took a deep breath, walked up the brick-lined path to the front door and knocked.

reviewingbooksplusmore - Review

"This book my first book by the Author. It will not be my last. The Author has such great descriptions, and I could visualize the scenes well. I love reading Love Inspired books. I recommend reading this book."

JoJo’s Corner - Review

"This is such a sweet story! I am a big fan of inspy romance and this book has all the ingredients for a perfectly heartwarming story that will be at the top of your own favorite list."

Britt Reads Fiction - Review

"Falling for the Innkeeper was such a good story! Laura and Jonathan felt like real people making their way through life, carrying burdens from their childhood that colored the way they viewed themselves and others. . . their journey was a joy to read about.

Hearts & Scribbles - Excerpt

Jonathan had always had this idea that if he could just reach that brass ring, if he could just grab it and hold on, that would be the thing that would make everything in his life work the way it was supposed to, the thing that would make everything okay.

But would it? Would it really?

Making partner at the law firm wouldn’t magically fix his father’s illness. Making partner wouldn’t change the fact that he’d been a scared, bullied kid. Making partner wouldn’t mean that his father, who’d gone missing when Jonathan was just seventeen, would ever come home.

@wildflowerbookshelf - Review

"I really enjoyed this book! It honestly was like reading a Hallmark movie! 🥰 I enjoyed the sweetness of it all. I loved the charming town and characters. And the inspiring message throughout."

Hallie Reads - Review

"As the pair does so, it is easy to fall in love with their story—and them as characters. I enjoyed getting to know Laura and Jonathan, their personalities and backstories, through Falling for the Innkeeper and seeing how they could move from enemies to something else. It is a delightful, fun story, and I now look forward to reading more from Meghann Whistler in the future."

Tell Tale Book Reviews - Review

"Falling For The Innkeeper is a sweet Love Inspired romance. It has a charming setting, great characters, especially the adorable Yankee Doodle singing Emma, and a storyline that manages to be both convicting and entertaining. Meghann Whistler skillfully gets her readers thinking introspectively while delivering a sweetly romantic escape. . ."

Book Lover in Florida - Excerpt

Jonathan tried to go back to his own work, but he couldn’t focus. “Your ex. He’s not very involved?”

“More like he’s not involved at all. He hasn’t even met Emma in person, you know.”

“What?” He felt something hot and fierce tear through him, outraged on her behalf. “How is that even possible?”

Splashes of Joy - Review

"As the story unfolds, so do these characters, and Ms. Whistler weaves together a beautiful story with a wonderful ending. I enjoy this.book for what it is, very sweet romance! And if you like a good clean Romance, this is one you need on your to read list! You won’t put it down until you finish the last page!"

Reading Excursions - Excerpt

She was fleet-footed, practically skipping from rock to rock. Jonathan followed, a little less certain of the path but determined not to fall behind. The boulders were damp and sandy, dried barnacles peppering the sides. She stopped and looked at him over her shoulder. “And Carberry Hotels is one of your clients?”

She was beautiful. She was so beautiful. And underneath the teasing, sometimes tough-girl demeanor, she was sweet, too. Everyone they’d run into during their excursion into town last night had loved her. He couldn’t understand why men weren’t lining up around the block to sweep her off her feet. If he had time for a girlfriend, he’d absolutely be the first person in line.

“Connor Carberry is my friend,” he said. “This deal is like a test case. If it goes through, the whole hotel chain could become a client.”

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting - Review

"This book took my heart on so many twists and turns - but it was a wonderful ending. I am super excited to see more from this author. She has written amazing characters, a beautiful setting, and has crafted a flowing storyline."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

Falling for the Innkeeper

By Meghann Whistler

Inspirational Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 224 Pages

July 21, 2020 by Love Inspired

She’s the home he never expected to find.

A battle for a charming Cape Cod inn…
But what happens when romance checks in?

Single mom Laura Lessoway won’t accept her mother’s plan of selling her late grandmother’s inn without a fight. But when big-city attorney Jonathan Masters arrives to arrange an offer from his client, she’s drawn to him. And working together as he helps with repairs only brings them closer. With his career and her home on the line, can they ever find common ground?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Target | Walmart | !ndigo

Christianbook | Apple | Google | Kobo | Harlequin

About the Author

Meghann Whistler writes sweet, clean contemporary Christian romance novels that WON'T make your grandmother blush. A hopeless romantic who met her husband on a blind date, Meghann recently left her marketing career to pursue her lifelong passion of writing sweet, hopeful stories that demonstrate the power of love and grace. Before settling down with her rocket scientist husband and raising three rambunctious boys, she earned a B.A. in English from Amherst College and an M.F.A. in creative writing from Emerson College. She loves to hear from her readers, who can reach her at www.meghannwhistler.com. 

Photo by Sophie Jacobson

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally for those who use one of Amazon's branches)

Ends August 5, 2020

ENTER HERE

Book Tour Grand Finale: Under the Shade of the Banyan Tree by Simi K. Rao

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What inspired you to write Under the Shade of the Banyan Tree?

Under the Shade of the Banyan Tree is a compilation of poems and short stories. The poems were written over several years. A friend recommended I publish them. Subsequently, I was advised that a book of poems is not necessarily palatable to a lot of people. Hence the idea of adding the short stories to reach more readers.

Britt Reads Fiction - Excerpt

Under the Shade of the Banyan Tree

Gods recline and meditate
Yogis attain nirvana
Banias conduct business
Councils assemble and confer...

Christy's Cozy Corners - Excerpt

Loneliness

Introducing Loneliness,
your constant companion
You lie if you say you don’t know me...

Beauty in the Binding - Excerpt

The Witching Hour

(Short Story)

I watched the dense thicket of clouds slide over the giant luminous cookie in the sky. A pitch-black darkness descended over the neighborhood, and there was not a single streetlamp to mar it. It appeared that All Saints Eve was going to live up to its reputation after all. I glanced at my companion. I could tell she was thinking the same...

Jorie Loves A Story - Excerpt

A Cup of Tea

A cup of tea
is a fuzzy, warm morning
flicking aside the blanket of night...

 

Book Lover in Florida - Excerpt

A Cup of Chai
(A Short Story)

Roma admired the okra. Long, slender green pods neatly arranged in parallel rows in the opened crate. They were fresh, therefore presumably good, yet she went through the process of selecting them individually. She bent their tips, applying slight pressure with her fingers and chose the ones that broke with a sharp snap...

Splashes of Joy - Excerpt

Mundane

We run around everyday
busying ourselves in a mundane routine
Getting the kids off to school
soccer practice, summer camp...

Remembrancy - Excerpt

Unbelievable

I am
Abnormal
Unconventional
Abominable
Unafraid...

 

Reading Is My SuperPower - Excerpt

The Witching Hour
(A Short Story)

Suddenly, the wind came rushing by our feet. It gathered up the leaves and they danced and twirled in the middle of the street...

Hallie Reads - Excerpt

Jaded

Being me
Happy in my own skin
No hang ups,
or stress of fitting in...

 

Hearts & Scribbles - Excerpt

Windows

Clean, plain, open, closed, bright,
light, shaded, paned, shuttered, blinded, boarded,
rusty, dirty, smoky windows.
broken, shattered, run down windows...

An Indie Adventure - Excerpt

The Ritual
(A Short Story)

It happened at one of the five-star hotels, Marriott I think, the fancy one in Juhu. Thank heavens it wasn’t at his home...

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

Under the Shade of the Banyan Tree:

Poems, Rants, and Short Stories

By Simi K. Rao

Poetry, Short Stories

Paperback & ebook, 144 Pages

November 22, 2019

Life is not about achieving perfection, it's about reconciling with your imperfections.

Poems are fragments of life. In Simi K. Rao’s unique poetry collection for women, there are blissful moments; deep, invisible wounds; cries for help; declarations of defiance and philosophical observations. The poems and prose pieces compiling the collection are fragments of life elucidating the different phases of the human condition. Under the Shade of the Banyan Tree will leave readers wanting for more and have a deep impact on women of all ages. 

(Affiliate links included.)

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About the Author

Simi K. Rao was born and grew up in India before relocating to the U.S., where she has lived for several years. The inspiration for her books, and other projects, comes from her work and experience with cross-cultural traditions, lifestyles, and familial relationships. Rao enjoys exploring the dynamics of contemporary American culture blended with Indian customs and heritage to reflect the challenges and opportunities many Indian American women face in real life. She is a practicing physician, and much of her down time is devoted to creative pursuits, including writing fiction and poetry, and photography. She is also an avid reader and traveler and has visited many locations around the world. She has written four novels. Under the Shade of the Banyan Tree is her first collection of poems and short stories. She is currently working on a new novel. She lives in Denver with her family. To learn more about Simi or her books, visit SimiKRao.com or find her on Facebook.

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Tour Giveaway

Two winners will each receive an ebook of Under the Shade of the Banyan Tree by Simi K. Rao (US only)

Ends August 5, 2020

ENTER HERE