Review: Loving the Texas Negotiator by Mary Connealy

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Not all the Garrisons are guys.

Beth Garrison is the top hostage negotiator in Rocky Ridge, Texas. She's called to serve on a task force to investigate a killing that is a copycat of her first bust as a rookie.

Tate McCade has a reputation for steamrolling anyone who gets in his way and he's had a run-in with Beth and her oversized ego before. He's got a bruise on his face to prove it.

They have to work together and sparks are flying that aren’t all about the job.

My Review

I've been binge reading the Garrison's Law series and it's so much fun! Fast paced with plenty of action and suspense, balanced with banter, wry humor, and plenty of character growth. I was so impressed with the influence Tate and Beth had on each other- they are both tough as nails, but have a way of getting past each other's defenses and provide support during humbling circumstances. They have great chemistry with strong feelings that alternate between frustration and passion. The author hits a sweet spot between character and plot-driven narrative, and I felt fully invested in both. Highly recommended for fans of romantic suspense! Books in this series can easily be read in any order.

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.

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Don't miss the other books in the Garrison's Law series . . .

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Harvest Moon by Jenny Knipfer

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Harvest Moon by Jenny Knipfer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Harvest Moon
Series: By the Light of the Moon #4
Author: Jenny Knipfer
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: November 23, 2020
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

A tale of finding grace and blessing amongst life's hardships

In the wilds of 19th century Ontario, Maang-ikwe, a young Ojibwe woman, falls into a forbidden love, breaks her father’s honor, and surrenders her trust to someone who betrays it. The abuse she suffers divides her from her tribe and causes her to give up what she holds most dear. 

Niin-mawin must come to grips with his culture being ripped away from him. Brought up in a “white man’s” school, he suffers through an enforced “civilized” education and separation from his family. When a man he respects reveals a secret about Niin-mawin’s past, he embarks on a search for the person he hopes can mend the part of his heart that’s always been missing. 

Both Maang-ikwe and Niin-mawin wonder how a harvest of pain and sorrow will impact their lives. Will they find the blessings amongst the hardships, or will they allow the results of division and abuse to taint their hearts forever? 

Fans of historical fiction, Native American fiction, Christian historical fiction, clean romance, and literary fiction will be moved by this deep, heartfelt novel. 

WARNING: This book contains a brief depiction of sexual assault. Throughout the book, the story contains themes of surviving abuse, healing from trauma, and forgiveness, in the context of one woman’s experience.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

 

EXCERPT

My mother always said that one day I’d get ripped open by my stubbornness, and she was right. It’s my fool, stubborn heart which led to Ignacio’s banishment and will most likely lead to mine.

A harvest moon of orange glows in the evening sky like a pumpkin guiding my steps. My feet squash down the mounded soil as I walk through the corn in the field. I hope I have not been followed. I turn my head to watch, but I see no one in the shadows. Some spidery strands of corn silk cling to my hide dress. Tufts of silk spring from the corn ears, brown and brittle like an old woman’s hair.

I walk deeper into the maze of stalks. Wide, curved leaves as big as my arm cling to me as I pass. Most are dry and they crunch as I wade into them. They are reluctant to see me go. Perhaps the corn wonders when I will ripen.

Soon. Soon.

 

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jenny Knipfer lives in Wisconsin with her husband, Ken, and their pet Yorkie, Ruby. She is also a mom and loves being a grandma. She enjoys many creative pursuits but finds writing the most fulfilling. Spending many years as a librarian in a local public library, Jenny recently switched to using her skills as a floral designer in a retail flower shop. She is now retired from work due to disability. Her education background stems from psychology, music, and cultural missions.

She holds membership in the: Midwest Independent Booksellers Association, Wisconsin Writers Association, Christian Indie Publishing Association, and Independent Book Publishers Association. Jenny’s favorite place to relax is by the western shore of Lake Superior, where her novel series, By The Light of the Moon, is set. 

 She is currently writing a new historical fiction series entitled,  Sheltering Trees. The first title in that series, In a Grove of Maples,—inspired by the lives of her grandparents in the late 1890’s—is slated for summer of 2021.

CONNECT WITH JENNY: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

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

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 29, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 5, 2021. 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 the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Review: Over Maya Dead Body by Sandra Orchard

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

FBI Special Agent Serena Jones arrives on Martha's Vineyard with her family, ready for a little bit of R&R and a whole lot of reminiscing as they celebrate the engagement of an old family friend. But crime doesn't take a vacation, and she's soon entangled in an investigation of a suspicious death tied to an antiquities smuggling ring.

When her investigation propels her into danger, Serena must stay the course and solve this case before anyone else dies. But just how is she supposed to do that when the two men in her life arrive on the scene, bringing with them plenty of romantic complications--and even a secret or two?

My Review

This third book fit in perfectly with the first two, offering the trademark sleuthing and love triangle romance that I enjoyed so much. I've been on pins and needles waiting to see who Serena would end up with, since both love interests are equally fun and desirable, but in different ways. I appreciate how the author keeps me guessing as the mystery unfolds with several twists, turns, and surprises. The suspense and action is well balanced with Serena's working the clues and inner musings about life and love. I especially liked the parts that revealed secrets of the characters who have been in all three books, and the ways some little things and mannerisms began to make sense. Highly entertaining and a wonderful conclusion to the series! I'd love it if the author wrote more Serena Jones mysteries!

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.

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Don't miss the previous books in the Serena Jones Mystery series . . .

Review: The Memory Jar by Tricia Goyer

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Every year, 30-40 young Amish men descend on the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana, arriving in the spring to live there for six months and receive 'resident' status for the hunting season in the fall. They arrive as bachelors, but go home with brides!

Sarah Shelter has lived in West Kootenai for the last ten years and wonders if she will ever fall in love and be married. Since the tragic death of her best friend, she carries her memories in a jar along with the small items connected to them. For just as long, she's also been carrying around her emotions instead of allowing them to penetrate deep into her heart. Now she's met a kind and gentle man who may be able to break down the wall. But can Sarah risk her heart to finally achieve her dreams?

My Review

This book had much more depth than I expected! Sarah had a wonderful childhood with best friend Patty, but they were separated as young adults when Patty was killed in an accident. Sarah has been grieving the loss deeply, and it has affected all aspects of her life. The book begins two years later, when Sarah has started to make an effort socially, and find friendship and romance where she doesn't expect it. Flashbacks to scenes from growing up with Patty show how much influence her friend had on her and the provenance of the objects in her memory jar (which she has been collecting for several years, not just since Patty's death as stated in the synopsis). I really felt for Jathan, who has dreams of his own but feels conflicted by the commandment to honor his parents who want to run his life in a direction he doesn't want to go. Sarah gives him the courage to pursue his career in business and expand his mother's bakery, and it's a new adventure for her as well. It was easy to connect with the emotions of the characters as they experienced ups and downs, obstacles and triumphs. Definitely recommend for fans of Amish fiction!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: A Wish for Home by Jo Ann Brown

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Wish for Home by Jo Ann Brown, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: A Wish for Home
Series: Secrets of Bliss Valley #1
Author: Jo Ann Brown 
Publisher: Love Inspired Trade
Release Date: March 30, 2021
Genre: Christian contemporary romance/Amish

Caught between who she is…and who she was. 

Lauren Nolt hasn’t forgiven the Amish community of Lancaster County for shunning her parents. But returning as a successful Englischer working for large developers is just what she needs to get a promotion and give her parents the life they deserve. Coming face-to-face with her childhood bully, Amish widower Adam Hershberger, is the last thing she wants. Yet when her world’s shaken by a shocking discovery, Adam’s the only one she can confide in… 

Adam’s never forgiven himself for the part he played in Lauren’s past, nor what drove him to do it. But as developers threaten his great-grossdawdi’s farm, she’s the only one who can help. And with his little girl determined to bring him and Lauren together at every turn, keeping his distance is impossible. Now they must learn to trust each other—even as their secret feelings grow stronger. But is love enough to bridge the gap between their very different worlds?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | Walmart | BookBub

The trade paperback version of A Wish for Home is available exclusively at your local Walmart or Walmart.com

 EXCERPT

 She pulled off his gloves and tossed them next to his hat on the counter. She sneezed, and her hood flew back to reveal her face. All color washed from it as his gaze crashed into hers as he was about to say, Gesundheit.

The word shriveled on his tongue, and he couldn’t look away from her oval face. She was pretty with delicate features. Her light brown hair streaked with blond fell forward over eyes that were an amazing light purple.

Purple eyes, blond hair, headstrong, correct in everything she did and said.

His own eyes widened. Was it possible? Could the Englischer standing in front of him be a former classmate at Bliss Valley School?

Knowing he’d feel like a dummkopf if she said no, he asked, “Are you Laurene Nolt?”

She flinched, but replied, “Yes, but I go by Lauren now.”

She didn’t add more. She didn’t need to. He could hear her accusing thoughts as if she screamed them. This beautiful woman standing in his friend’s shop was the adult version of the young girl who’d been given the task of trying to tutor him when they were in their final year of school. She’d been cute as a fourteen-year-old, but time had enhanced the golden sheen of her hair and deepened her eyes’ rich shade.

Scene after scene exploded out of his memory as he recalled the hours he’d spent with her. Each one buffeted him like a fist, more painful and humiliating than the previous one. Back then, the humiliation had been heaped on her. He’d made sure of that, but now regret threatened to drown even the sim­plest thought as he recalled what he’d put her through when she’d been trying to help him. She’d done her best, and he’d ridiculed her for it.

He’d thought that part of his past was dead and buried, but now it stood in front of him. Not it. Her. With her chin raised and cold disdain in her eyes, she was a living tribute to the foolish things he’d done in his life.

He guessed she wouldn’t be leaving soon. Not when it would have been dangerous for her to try to drive her car with compromised struts. The storm would have the roads closed soon, if they weren’t already. She was stuck in Bliss Valley at least for tonight, and he couldn’t leave her stranded in the shop.

He owed her at least that much.

The urge to laugh clawed at his throat. He owed her so much more, but the best thing he could do for them—and for his family—was to get her somewhere safe tonight. Some­where he could avoid her and the past she’d brought to life.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Publishers Weekly bestselling author Jo Ann Brown has created characters and stories for as long as she can remember. After college, serving as a US Army quartermaster officer, getting married and increasing her blessings with three children, she sold her first book in 1987. Since then, she has sold over one hundred titles.  RT Book Reviews called her “a truly talented author.” She loves teaching and established the romance writing course at Brown University. She divides her time between Florida and Massachusetts with her husband of over forty years. Find out more about Jo Ann and her books at www.joannbrownbooks.com.

CONNECT WITH JO ANN: Website 

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Wish for Home!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 30, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 6, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Review: Rough Stock by Heather B. Moore, Rebecca Connolly, Sophia Summers

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Life on the road is good . . . Until he meets her and realizes what he’s missing.

Westin Farr has been focused on one thing. To match his dad’s perfect 100-point record in professional bull riding. It’s getting closer; he can feel it. Although he misses his dad, life is good. Westin spends his days on the road, his nights bull riding, and his free time with his former college rodeo buddies—the Original Six. But when he meets the feisty Silvia Diaz, Westin finds that his lofty goals might not be so important after all.

The last thing Silvia wants to do is ‘work on herself’ at Broken Hearts Ranch in the tiny town of Lost Creek, Texas. And the last thing she needs is a cowboy sweet-talking her into staying. She agrees to give the place one week, one week only, and then she’s returning to normal life. Not even a bull rider who seems to look straight into her heart can change her mind . . . until he does.

My Review

I wasn't sure I was going to be able to like Silvia when I started the book, but I shouldn't have doubted one of my favorite authors- I quickly grew to empathize with her and her struggles of developing as an individual outside of her brother's influence. I enjoyed seeing her relish her independence and take a chance on new endeavors. Westin and Silvia have great chemistry and their friendship and romance develops naturally as they get to know each other and feelings deepen. Westin has his own issues of working through various injuries while trying to match his father's perfect bull riding score, all the while feeling drawn to Silvia at Broken Hearts Ranch. I quickly became invested in the characters and felt connected to their emotions as they learned new life lessons. A great addition to the series and I'm looking forward to 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.

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Welcome to Lost Creek Rodeo!

Best friends at a small college in Texas, six cowboys rise to become pro-rodeo stars. Follow Ryan, Reid, Westin, Ford, Eric and Lars in these six swoony sports romances.

Visit us on Facebook: Swoony Sports Romances

Releases April 2021

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Releases June 2021