Review: The Engagement Bargain by Sherri Shackelford

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Make-believe betrothal

Rock-solid and reliable, confirmed bachelor Caleb McCoy thought nothing could rattle him--until he discovers he needs to pose as Anna Bishop's intended groom. After saving her life, his honorable code bid Caleb watch over the innocent beauty. And a pretend engagement is the only way to protect her from further harm.

Raised by a single mother and suffragist, Anna doesn't think much of marriage--and she certainly doesn't plan to try it herself. But playing Caleb's blushing bride-to-be makes her rethink her independent ways, because their make-believe romance is becoming far too real...

My Review

The suffragist message and theme was strong in this book, and it was interesting to see how Anna, raised by a borderline militant suffragist mother, could choose her own path while still staying true to the good principles of the movement. It was a journey for her to be removed from her mother's influence and develop her own opinions about friendship, relationships, and romance. I loved her hidden talent with embroidery and the small ways she defied her mother while still seeking her approval in other ways. Caleb's emotions are a bit of a mess, and it was surprising that he had allowed a rather insignificant rejection from his past to have such a long-lasting effect on his trust. I liked seeing him loosen up and give Anna and himself a chance. A great cast of community members- family and friends- rounded out this story in a delightful 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.

Blog + Review Tour & Giveaway: The Epic Story of RJ and York series by Susan May Warren

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Epic Story of RJ and York by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

 

ABOUT THE SERIES

 

It’s an epic adventure across Europe, from France to Italy, to Germany and even Russia in this riveting, fun, romantic, enthralling trilogy about true love, honor, and the cost of, well, saving the world.

Title: Out of the Night 
Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #1 
Author: Susan May Warren 
Publisher: SDG Publishing 
Release Date: August 9, 2022 
Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The romantic trilogy ignites in book one of the Epic Story of RJ and York! 

He’s not looking for trouble… 

All former spy and current national security agent York Newgate wants is to propose to the woman he loves, RJ Marshall. Then they can move to Shelly, Washington, and start the calm, safe life he’s been dreaming of for over a year. 

Too bad trouble doesn’t agree… 

Or maybe RJ simply attracts trouble because she’s just going out for coffee when she spots a wanted, known terrorist standing in the middle of a street in Paris. At least she thinks it’s international criminal Alan Martin, the mastermind behind a plot to kill the president. But he's in jail, right? Wrong. Martin has escaped, and it’s up to RJ—and York—to keep him in their sights until he can be apprehended. But chasing down Martin means following him into the darkness of whatever plot he's cooked up now. 

Will he ever outrun trouble to find his happy ending? 

So much for York’s epic proposal. Now, he just wants to escape Europe with their lives. 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

My Review

I was so happy that we get to read more adventures with Ruby Jane and York! He was definitely one of my favorites from the Montana Marshalls series. He's kind of like a burned out James Bond, and just wants to retire from the spy game with peace. RJ, on the other hand, still has plenty of energy to give and enthusiastically throws herself into whatever it takes to save the world. I loved their romantic moments, even though they still have things in their relationship to work on. The fast pace is full of nail-biting danger and close calls, with the book ending on a cliffhanger- so be prepared to read this series back to back! I'm so glad the author is releasing them close together so readers don't have to wait or risk losing interest over time.

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.

Title: I Will Find You 
Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #2 
Author: Susan May Warren 
Publisher: SDG Publishing 
Release Date: August 16, 2022 
Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The gripping romantic adventure continues across Europe in this second installment of the Epic Story of RJ and York! 

The woman he loves has vanished… 

When RJ Marshall said she’d be right back, York should have objected. No, he wasn’t going to let her run off to Berlin, even if it was to save a little girl. Only problem—she’d told him this while he was unconscious. So really, it doesn’t count, and it’s not his fault that she’s gone missing. And, he didn’t know why he expected RJ not to chase danger into trouble. But now he has to find her before criminal mastermind Alan Martin tracks her down. 

She’s in over her head… 

RJ didn’t mean to leave York behind, but she’s on a mission to save a little girl caught in the crossfire of Martin’s terrorist plot. Now, she’ll have to find the girl and keep her safe while leaving clues for York to follow her. 

But who will catch up to her first—York, or the man with a vendetta?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

My Review

While the action picks up right where it left off in the previous book, I especially loved the strong faith message that I found woven throughout. Secondary characters Ziggy and Roy add depth and influence RJ's perspective in good ways, and a dual timeline story brought another dimension to the story. It's inspiring to see how these characters are still developing and growing, showing that it is a lifelong process that we are continually seeking to change and grow closer to God. The epic adventure with danger and suspense doesn't slow down, and I can't wait to read the next book and see how it all wraps up!

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.

 

Title: No Matter the Cost 
Series: The Epic Story of York & RJ #3 
Author: Susan May Warren 
Publisher: SDG Publishing 
Release Date: August 23, 2022 
Genre: Romantic Suspense (Clean)

The riveting conclusion to the Epic Story of RJ and York! 

Her worst nightmare has happened…. 

RJ refuses to believe it, and until she has proof, she’s going to keep searching for answers. And most of all, for the man she loves, even if it means diving into the past he always wanted to keep secret. The kind of secrets that could have set York free. It’ll take a trip back to Russia, to the sketchy and dark history of York’s life to find the clues to the sinister plans of a global terrorist. And the answers that might lead her to a happy ending. 

Or has it? What if her happy ending is more than a dream? 

If RJ hopes to save her country—and find out the truth about York—she’ll have to become the high-action, Sydney Bristow spy that she always dreamed of being. But really, does RJ really have what it takes—with, or without the man she loves—to save the world? 

And if she does…what will be the cost? 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

 

My Review

What an absolutely satisfying conclusion to this trilogy! Learning more about York's past and how that has influenced him peeled back more layers to this dynamic character, and his relationship with RJ deepens as they become more in sync with their desires for the future. The plot is suspenseful, with more twists, turns and surprises that had me gripping my Kindle as I read! Epic is the perfect word for this series and I loved every moment of the wild and crazy ride. I'm amazed at the author's skill in immersing me completely into the setting and emotions of the characters, feeling what they are feeling as I read- my favorite kind of reading experience! I love these characters and was so happy and relieved with their happily-ever-after.

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.

 

ALSO AVAILABLE

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

With over 1.5 million books sold, critically acclaimed USA Today best-selling novelist Susan May Warren is the Christy, RITA and Carol award-winning author of over ninety novels with Revell, Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press. Known for her compelling plots and unforgettable characters, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic-suspense, thrillers, rom-com and Christmas novellas.

Connect with Susan by visiting susanmaywarren.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

 

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a paperback set of The Epic Story of RJ and York trilogy.

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight August 2, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on August 9, 2022. US only. Items may vary from image. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. 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.

Book Tour, Review & Instagram Giveaway: Inventions of the Heart by Mary Connealy

 

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Her heart seeks safety. But will trouble find her even here?

After her sister's marriage, Michelle Stiles is left hiding at Two Harts Ranch with the handsome but stubborn Zane Hart. She's managed to stay one step ahead of her stepfather and his devious plans, but if he finds her, she will no longer be safe.

Zane has problems of his own. Having discovered a gold mine on his property, he must figure out how to harvest it without kicking off a gold rush. Michelle, educated and trained to run her father's business, wants to manage all aspects of the mine, but Zane thinks for a person so smart she can have some misguided ideas. Running the mining operation will be a dangerous job, and he can't risk putting her in harm's way.

But danger finds Michelle anyway when she's suddenly attacked. If they go to the sheriff, they'll reveal her location, but if they do nothing . . . their troubles have only just begun.

My Review

I enjoyed this continuation of the Lumber Baron's Daughters series with Michelle and Zane's story. It was so fun to see the way her inventor's mind works and all the ideas for improvement she has. She and Zane have good chemistry despite their bickering, and he feels protective of these heiress sisters who have landed on his ranch through interesting circumstances. Naturally there is danger around every corner and plenty of adventure as the sisters fight the hold their wicked stepfather has on the family along with the honorable men who are devoted to them. Even though Zane is tied to his ranch and the struggles there, Michelle's future becomes his own and I loved the way she became just as invested in the ranch as the lumber business. We also see the perspective of their mother on the mountain as Laura and Caleb return and the overturning of power begins. This series has the author's trademark humor, action, and faith woven together with vibrant characters and interesting plots.

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.

 

Instagram Giveaway

ENTER HERE

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Hope Beyond the Waves by Heidi Chiavaroli

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Hope Beyond the Waves by Heidi Chiavaroli, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Hope Beyond the Waves 
Author: Heidi Chiavaroli
Publisher: Hope Creek Publishers, LLC
Release Date: June 28, 2022
Genre: Christian, Dual Timeline Fiction

From award-winning author Heidi Chiavaroli comes a sweeping dual timeline story that explores hope and enduring love in the midst of the impossible. 

Massachusetts, 1993 

After making a grievous mistake that will change her life forever, Emily Robertson is sent away to live with her grandmother on Cape Cod. When Emily finds a timeworn photograph buried in a drawer, she realizes her grandmother has concealed a secret even bigger than her own. Will convincing Gram to reveal their family history help Emily make the most important decision of her life or will it prove her parents right—that family scandal is better off buried and forgotten? 

Massachusetts, 1916 

Atta Schaeffer plans to marry the man of her dreams and whisk her little sister away from their abusive father. But when she is diagnosed with a dreaded malady, Atta is forced into a life of exile, leaving her sister in harm’s way. 

On Penikese Island, Atta’s best hope lies with Harry Mayhew, a doctor who seeks a cure for his patients at any cost. But when experiments fail, Atta runs from Harry—and from God. Can she return to her sister before it’s too late? Or will her illness consume both her body and soul? 

A testament to faith and love, Hope Beyond the Waves is the raw account of the journey of two generations of women running from desperate situations toward irresistible hope.

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

EXCERPT

Osterville, Massachusetts
April, 1993

I stand rigid, arms pinned to my sides as my mother wraps me in a loose hug in Gram’s foyer.

“I’m so glad we thought of this arrangement,” she says.

Arrangement. As if shipping me off and hiding me away is a plan we’d come up with together.

My father kisses me on the forehead, but it’s awkward. Probably a show for my grandmother. He’s kissed plenty of babies on the campaign trail, after all—this is likely no different.

“Be good, Sweet Pea.” He turns to my grandmother, who barely comes up to his armpits. “Keep in touch, Mom. Don’t hesitate to call if…” His gaze flicks to me and he doesn’t finish his sentence.

What? Does he think I’ll find a cute boy in Gram’s retirement village? One who will get me in bigger trouble than Bryan already has?

ALSO AVAILABLE

   

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Heidi Chiavaroli is a writer, runner, and grace-clinger who could spend hours exploring places that whisper of historical secrets. Her debut novel, Freedom's Ring, was a Carol Award winner and a Christy Award finalist, a Romantic Times Top Pick, and a Booklist Top Ten Romance Debut. Heidi makes her home in Massachusetts with her husband and two sons.

Connect with Heidi by visiting heidichiavaroli.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a Handmade French Market Seagrass Bag, hardcover copy of Hope Beyond the Waves, and Ocean-Lover Bookmark!

 

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 25, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 1, 2022. 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: Kidnapped in Alaska by Beth Carpenter

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

From hiking and camping…
to hiding from kidnappers!

Alexis Mahoney is prepared for bears and bad weather on a rafting trip, not kidnappers trying to snatch her niece! Or needing to trust a wilderness recluse to keep them safe. Zeke Soto lives alone, haunted by the past. But when Alexis and Keira stumble upon his cabin, he offers protection—a dangerous move, because someone has no intention of letting the pair get off the mountain…

My Review

I was entertained the entire journey that this book took me on! I loved the wilderness adventure and the independence of Alexis with her capability and determination. Her niece may act like a typical teenager, but she is also quick and smart enough to help her aunt as they escape danger. Zeke is a loner, trying to cope with overwhelming emotions by retreating from society. I admired that he overcame his instincts of self-preservation in order to protect Alexis and Keira. They became a great team and I loved the details about homesteading in Alaska. There was a good balance throughout the book of a quick pace with the action and a slower pace as the character development happened. I always appreciate the thread of faith woven into Love Inspired books that provides hope and healing for the characters and I feel a connection to their values. This is a great read for fans of suspense and an exciting wilderness setting!

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: The Element of Love by Mary Connealy

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

With their sharp engineering minds, Laura Stiles and her two sisters have been able to deal with their mother's unfortunate choice in husband, until they discover his plans to marry each of them off to his lecherous friends. Now they must run away--far and fast--to find better matches to legally claim their portion of their father's lumber dynasty and seize control from their stepfather.

When Laura befriends a mission group heading to serve the poor in California during their escape, she quickly volunteers herself and her sisters to join their efforts. Despite the settlement being in miserable condition, the sisters are excited by the opportunity to put their skills to good use. Laura also sees potential in Caleb, the local minister, to help with gaining her inheritance. But when secrets buried in Caleb's past and in the land around them come to light, it'll take all the smarts the sisters have to keep trouble at bay.

My Review

This series starts with the heart-pounding escape of the three sisters from their gilded cage, and doesn't slow down as they make their way deeper into California, relying on their wits and ingenuity. The voices of these independent young women are familiar as they remind me of previous characters of the author, even though their backgrounds are different. I admired the way they adapted to their rougher circumstances, learning new skills and making new friends along the way. Quick marriage is a frequent theme of the author, and while Laura has an immediate need for a husband, I missed the developing emotion of a relationship. The plot of the complicated dynamics of Caleb's mission to the gold rush families living in poverty, squatting on a local rancher's land, along with the sisters' goal to overthrow their evil stepfather's grasp of their lumber inheritance, definitely took center stage of the book. It was entertaining, but I didn't feel connected to the characters' more tender emotions. The book ended with a good wrap-up of Caleb and Laura's story, but the overall story of the three girls and their mother is only beginning and will continue throughout the series. Definitely should be read in 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.

The Lumber Baron's Daughters series

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: #LoveEverLasting by #MichelleHelenFritz #EAShanniak with #HFVBTBlogTours

Love Ever Lasting by Michelle Helen Fritz & E.A. Shanniak

Publication Date: July 14, 2022

Genre: Historical Romance/Regency

Series: Bramley Hall Regency Romance, Book 3

Miss Grace Buchanan has given up any hope of marrying. She's been too occupied raising her younger siblings while her drunkard father spends all of their funds. When a horrid sickness envelops the cottage, she meets the new Parson of Bramley, whom she's never forgotten. All she desires is an everlasting love, but with her family dynamics, it makes any sort of relationship a touch complex.

When tragedy is set to strike, Matthew Morten is called home suddenly. It's time for him to take his place as the parson of Bramley. With his meddling mother and a sickness that is sweeping through the town, Matthew has to lean on his faith to get him through. But when he sets eyes upon one industrious woman, he can't seem to keep her, nor her hazel eyes, far from his thoughts.

Will these two wounded souls find a Love Ever Lasting, or will responsibilities and family drama keep them forever apart?

Love Ever Lasting is a clean Regency Romance and the third book in a three-story series that will entertain and delight you with its swoon-worthy heroes and the compelling leading ladies that capture their hearts. Each book can be read as a standalone, but are best read in release order.

 

Available on Amazon

Excerpt

He cast his gaze over to Grace and finally allowed himself to drink in her beauty. She was ethereal. She was beautiful to behold and when she met his gaze and smiled, he felt as if he beheld the most precious treasure he would ever meet. Her expressive hazel eyes, set in a heart-shaped face, was a permanent fixture within his mind. He knew that were he to spend every minute of every day locked upon her face, he would never tire of her. Her smiles delighted him and when he was the cause of one, it was as if he had been gifted the riches of heaven. She was glorious and he hoped to tell her that presently. And when she was out of sorts, he felt the pain within his own chest. He was a besotted fool and none the worse for it that he could tell unless he counted his wandering thoughts.

 

About the Authors

 

Michelle Helen Fritz was born and raised in Maryland and Arizona with lots of traveling throughout the States. She began her literary career as a personal assistant to Indie authors and loves to see the process of an idea turn into a finished book. Michelle loves to write about dashing heroes, and the compelling women that tempt them, with a dash of intrigue, an abundant amount of romance, and scenes that hopefully make her readers swoon. She is the mother of four children whom she homeschools and currently resides in Maryland with her own jaunty hero who makes all of her dreams come true.

Author Facebook Page | Twitter | Instagram

E.A. (Ericka Ashlee) Shanniak is the author of the successful fantasy romance series – A Castre World Novel. She is hobbit-sized, barely reaching over five feet tall on a good day. When she wears her Georgia Romeo’s not only does she gain an inch, she is then able to reach the kitchen cabinets. Ericka loves to write at her desk that her daughter’s cat destroyed. Fortunately for everyone, she can see over it.

Ericka resides in the small town of Coldwater, Kansas with her husband, two kids, two dogs and two grumpy cats. The cats were her kids’ idea.

Author Facebook Page | Instagram

Blog Tour Schedule

Thursday, July 14
Review at Books, Cooks, Looks
Excerpt at Aubrey Wynne: Timeless Romance
Saturday, July 16
Feature at Passages to the Past
Monday, July 18
Review at Bookworlder
Tuesday, July 19
Review at Ms. Darcy Reads
Friday, July 22
Excerpt at Heidi Reads...
Monday, July 25
Feature at Lisa Everyday Reads
Review at Gwendalyn's Books
Tuesday, July 26
Review at Pages and Paws
Wednesday, July 27
Review at Cover Lover Book Review

Giveaway

Enter to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on July 27th. You must be 18 or older to enter.

Love Ever Lasting