Review: A Haunting at Havenwood by Sally Britton

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Nothing will keep Louisa from her great-aunt's fortune. Except perhaps a phantom who turns out to be a most eligible bachelor.

Although Louisa Banner insists she is not the least bit superstitious, she cannot help her misgivings when her family announces she must spend October with her great aunt in a rundown Welsh castle riddled with tales of ghosts. The family hopes Louisa will endear herself to her aunt enough to win a grand inheritance. Louisa’s only wish is to avoid a run-in with any of the phantoms spoken of by the local villagers. When Louisa stumbles upon a forgotten graveyard, and a man whose name comes directly from a tombstone, she isn’t certain whether to run away in terror or stay and get to know the handsome spirit.

Erasmus Grey is cursed, and not only because he sometimes hears the voices of his dead grandparents. While most men would count it a blessing to be a wealthy, eligible bachelor, Ras is absolutely panic-stricken at the idea of finding a bride. Rather than succumb to the matchmaking mothers of London, he retreats to an old family cottage with no plans to return to Society. Though he manages to keep his presence in the country a secret, coming upon a lovely young woman during one of his rambles nearly undoes all his careful work. But when he realizes Miss Banner thinks him a ghost, Ras wonders if he might have found a way to cure his own fears.

My Review

I loved this slow and sweet romance set in an isolated village by the Scottish border. Louisa is a bit adrift, but eager to please her aunt and quickly becomes accustomed to her newfound independence. I enjoyed her lovely personality that is steady with a good sense of humor. Ras has been considered an odd duck with his stammer and preference for solitude, and it was wonderful to see his personality unfold as he befriends Louisa and they entertain each other while hunting clues for the legendary hidden treasure. The haunting by the grandparents was whimsical rather than scary, and their vibrant personalities shone through as they subtly encouraged Ras in his endeavors. Ras and Louisa have charming chemistry and their gentle romance was a pleasure to read!

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 Seasons of Change series . . .

Review: Set Free to Live Free: Breaking Through the 7 Lies Women Tell Themselves by Saundra Dalton-Smith

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Imagine life with unlimited possibility, where fear, misconceptions, and insecurities don't have the power to rob us of our potential or our dreams. In Set Free to Live Free, Saundra Dalton-Smith shows women how to break free from seven mental ties that hold them back, including striving for perfection, comparing themselves to others, all-or-nothing attitudes, and more. Through case studies and inspirational writing, she encourages women to embrace spontaneity, be transparent, nurture their bodies, and cultivate a balanced life.

My Review

This book is just what I needed at a time in my life where I feel frustrated with how certain things are going. Halfway through the third chapter I was already feeling emotional burdens lift and the ability to feel hope and empowerment. I love the author's compassionate and encouraging voice and her wisdom and advice that I know to be true, but needed someone else to tell me again. I appreciate the gospel foundation and scripture references that enhance the lessons and themes. The seven areas she focuses on are are ones that everyone can reassess and seek alignment with truth rather that the lies and half-truths that are all-too-easy to believe. My print copy is covered with highlighter, and this book will be one I refer back to in the future as I continue to grow and embrace freedom. This would make an amazing book club pick with the potential for discussion. Highly recommend!

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.

Book Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Texas SEAL's Surprise by Cari Lynn Webb

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

The Texas SEAL's Surprise

(Three Springs, Texas #1)

By Cari Lynn Webb

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 216 Pages

August 24, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

New town…

New set of problems

Suddenly single—and pregnant—Abby James hopes Three Springs, Texas, will give her the fresh start she craves. But five minutes in and she’s already clashed with a former Navy SEAL on horseback. Wes Tanner might be devastatingly handsome, but Abby has no time for romance. Especially with a man intent on leaving town. Abby wants to plant some roots…and falling for the tempting Texan could upend all her plans!

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Excerpt

“This is your first flat tire ever.” Surprise filtered through his voice.

Abby nodded.

And her first time ever in Texas.

And her first time ever being face to horse with a real cowboy.

And her first time experiencing such an overwhelmingly instant awareness of a man. That was merely a by-product of the full sun beating down on her, burning her nose and scrambling her common sense.

Besides, she’d left her broken heart back in California. Another relationship was the last thing she’d come to Texas for. 

Other Books in the Series

Trusting the Rancher with Christmas

(Three Springs, Texas #2)

By Cari Lynn Webb

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

October 26, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

A visit for the holidays

Brings love for a lifetime

Cattle rancher Evan Bishop is desperate for Paige Palmer’s help. The veterinarian is in Three Springs for the holidays, but the single dad hopes she has time to save his ailing livestock. Paige is up for the challenge, though not quite up to resisting the cowboy’s rugged charm and his darling devotion to his little girl. Can Paige learn to trust the rancher before the countdown to Christmas ends?

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About the Author

Cari Lynn Webb lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughters and assorted four-legged family members. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers. Visit her at her website.

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Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, book chair, two backlist books (winner’s choice) and summer goodies (AKA candy)

US only
Ends September 8, 2021

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Review: Christmas on the Ranch by Arlene James, Lois Richer

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Cowboys for Christmas

The Rancher’s Christmas Baby by Arlene James
The quiet holiday season Dixon Lyons had planned is abruptly derailed when his long-absent mother appears at his doorstep with a baby and stunning beauty Fawn Ambor. Soon Fawn’s generous heart and endearing belief in the strength of family and forgiveness have him wondering if this might just be the Christmas he needs.

Christmas Eve Cowboy by Lois Richer
Dr. Elizabeth Kendall moved to Snowflake, Montana, wanting nothing more than a fresh start for herself and her daughter, Zoey. But when handsome local rancher Brett Carlisle convinces Elizabeth to lead the kids’ Christmas Eve choir, she discovers the idyllic town has a lot more in store for her—and her heart—than she ever imagined.

My Review

This is a sweet compilation of two contemporary holiday stories set on ranches. I didn't really feel an emotional connection to the characters, but it was pleasant to read about them and the way the Christmas spirit helped them overcome their difficult circumstances and hope for a brighter future. Dixon and Fawn develop feelings for each other rather quickly, but their relationship plays second fiddle to Dixon's reconciliation with his mother, overcoming his feelings of abandonment, and bonding with his new baby sister. 

Over in Montana, it's Elizabeth that struggles with deeply rooted issues left by her emotionally abusive ex-husband. Add a puppy, young daughter, thoughtful cowboy, and gruff rancher, and she has no choice but to embrace her new life and community. She gets the opportunity to encourage Brett as well when he has a tough decision to make. Overall, a heartwarming story.

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

Review: Only Time Will Tell by Amy Matayo

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

For newly published author Eliza Sterling, having her first book launch party at the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a dream come true. Since her book is a modern-day retelling of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens and the Met is hosting a display of rarely seen Dickens’ artifacts at the same time, she chalks it up to a case of good timing.

For publicly disgraced, former best-selling author Lew McDonnell, seeing a debut author having her first book launch party at the Met brings up all sorts of resentments. Especially when the book this lady is promoting just happens to be one of his old manuscripts that she’s clearly plagiarized and claimed for herself.

When heated words are exchanged in front of a display case containing an original copy of Great Expectations, both Lew and Eliza are prepared for a fight. But they aren’t prepared for the room to shake, for the display case to shatter, or for the old book to send them both careening toward a new existence entirely.

When Lew wakes up on the floor of the Charles Dickens museum in London to see Eliza working there as a tour guide, he knows something has gone horribly wrong. It’s the same day and time, but suddenly he’s the best-selling author headlining his own book launch again, and Eliza is serving him drinks and working all hours to make ends meet. And the weirdest thing of all?

Lew is the only one who remembers their former lives.

My Review

Rather than travel back in time like the first book, these characters experience a time shift where they live in a modern day alternate universe. For Lew, he's getting a second chance at the life he threw away, but does he deserve it? He has no memory of the events in the alternate universe leading up to the present day- he only remembers the reality he came from. Eliza in the alternate life is burdened with heartbreaking regrets and grief, and Lew can't let go of his connection to her. How can he remain in this world where Eliza is suffering? The more they grow closer together, the harder it is to imagine a perfect future for both of them. I enjoyed the unexpected journey the author took us on and the lessons of selflessness and courage that Lew and Eliza learn along the way.

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 first book in the Charles & Company Romance series . . .

 

 

 

Review: The Nabob's Daughter by Jess Heileman

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

She’ll do anything to escape an arranged marriage. He’ll do anything to help her.

Honora Crauford relishes her life in India. So when her father informs her of his latest business transaction—marrying her off to a bankrupt nobleman in England—her only hope for returning home is to convince her betrothed, by whatever antics necessary, that a marriage to her comes at a cost that not even the greatest fortune can justify.

Graham Whitworth can hardly believe his wretched luck. It seems the only way to save his family’s insolvent estate is to comply with his father’s demands and marry the extremely wealthy, but utterly ridiculous, nabob’s daughter. But when Honora missteps, Graham discerns her farce and begins to see who she truly is—a most impressive lady. A lady likely capable of fixing his family’s financial troubles.

Realizing they both desire freedom, Graham and Honora join forces to restore the Whitworth estate and return Honora to her beloved India. But sometimes love has its own agenda, and the revoking of a once undesirable arrangement may just prove to be the greatest sacrifice of all.

My Review

This was such a fun read! I was thoroughly entertained by Honora and Graham, and the charade that led them both to discover what they truly want. Honora's cringe-worthy behavior thankfully didn't last the entire book, and even she had difficulty with her attempts at the outrageous. I think her goodness was able to shine through subconsciously, which made Graham's discernment of her true character come naturally. Their plot to work together to upend the expectations of both their fathers gave them time to grow closer together and their chemistry was great! Some unexpected twists along with a bit of a mystery made this book one that I couldn't put down. Loved the array of personalities and family dynamics woven into this sweet romance.

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

Review: Carving for Miss Coventry by Deborah M. Hathaway

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

With his deceased father’s woodworking business now failing, Edward Steele will do anything to see its return to prosperity, even if that means accepting work from the Coventry family far outside of Bath. His two goals? Finishing this new task swiftly and making as few acquaintances as possible. But such things are easier said than done, especially when the Coventry’s daughter finds it necessary to spy on him at every turn.

Marianne Coventry doesn’t mean to stare, but such a task is difficult when a man as handsome as Mr. Steele works right before her eyes. Besides, at twenty years old and not yet out in Society—due to an unmarried elder sister and a strict, rule-abiding father—she will take any distraction she can get. Perhaps turning to a dashing woodworker for entertainment isn’t a wise decision, but does she really have any other choice?

As Edward becomes aware of Marianne's sheltered life, an unexpected friendship sprouts between them—a friendship her family cannot discover, especially when Marianne begins to realize she’s been living half a life. Still, Edward’s heart remains cautious, for becoming distracted and losing his family’s business would mean forfeiting his livelihood and everything his father worked so hard to achieve. Despite the forces working against them, only the two of them can decide what they want most in life—and if they’re willing to risk everything for love.

My Review

I am so excited for this new series from some of my favorite authors in the Regency genre! It's off to a strong start with the first book. Edward is a hero that is easy to have sympathy for, he has a strong integrity and work ethic, but is dealing with the aftermath of an undeserved reputation. The opportunity to work for Marianne's father is not one he takes lightly, which makes their unlikely friendship all the more risky. I love the way they naturally take to each other, and his protective nature widens to include her along with his family, yet it seems he must choose between them. The story has a steady pace with plenty of scenes between Edward and Marianne as their romance blossoms despite their disparate circumstances, and I enjoyed every page I read!

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

Don't miss the other books in the Sons of Somerset series . . .

 

 

 

Review: The Amish Quiltmaker's Unruly In-Law by Jennifer Beckstrand

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Moving to a new Amish settlement in small-town Colorado was a brave new start for independent-minded quiltmaker Esther Liem. But helping her reckless relative will really put her special matchmaking skills to the test...

Mischievous and rebellious, young Ben Liem is making the wrong kind of name for himself throughout the town of Yoder. And even though his sister-in-law, Esther, somehow coaxes him into keeping company with sensible Linda Eicher, Ben can't see anything they have in common. Or that he could ever be good enough for someone like her. But Linda's down-to-earth nature and unexpected understanding have Ben trying his best to be better, no matter how challenging...

Linda couldn't be more surprised when Ben turns out to be caring and helpful, despite his rowdy pranks and bad-news friends. And falling in love with him suddenly seems just right. But when a heartbreaking misunderstanding comes between them, both she and Ben must risk enough to trust, stitch the pieces back together--and dare a forever precious happiness.

My Review

I always love the vibrant characters this author brings to life in her books. Esther is a favorite with her quirky mannerisms, and I love her compassion and caring for Ben, difficult as he can be. It was a little heartbreaking as the reasons for his behavior are slowly revealed, and even though he was difficult to understand in the beginning, by the end I was really rooting for him to find peace. Linda is such a good match for him and I enjoyed their challenging friendship and the blossoming of deeper feelings. Esther's friend Cathy is a hoot and was a bit of a scene stealer in this book. I loved how she got involved in the lives of the younger characters. There are deeper themes woven in that made this more than a simple Amish romance, which is why this author is one of my must-reads!

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 first book in The Amish Quiltmaker series . . .