Thursday, January 5, 2023

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Into the Spotlight by Leslea Wahl

Into the Spotlight JustRead Blog Tour 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Into the Spotlight by Leslea Wahl, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK


Into the Spotlight Title: Into the Spotlight 
Series: Finding Faith 
Author: Leslea Wahl 
Publisher: Vinspire Publishing 
Release Date: October 25, 2022 
Genre: Christian YA, adventure, mystery, romance

The devastation of a ruined summer.

The gift of a second chance. 

Can Josie learn the lessons she needs ito discover her true self? 

After a humiliating event and overwhelming peer pressure, 16-year-old Josie flees her home to spend the summer with her aunt on a South Carolina Island. Her fresh start turns into the summer of her dreams as friendships grow, romance blossoms, and a series of thefts surround her with excitement. 

However, when tragedy strikes someone close to her, Josie realizes there are more important things than her reputation. As she sets out to solve the mystery she has become entangled in, she not only realizes the importance of relying on her faith but along the way also discovers who God wants her to be.

PURCHASE LINKS: Amazon | Goodreads | Barnes & Noble


EXCERPT


“You were wonderful, Jozay.” His brown eyes peer into mine. “I wonder, would you be free tomorrow?”

“Yes.” OMG, he just asked me out!

“You can snorkel?”

“Snorkel? Sure.”

He doesn’t need to know everything. Like, the first time I tried, instead of breathing in clean air through my tube, I sucked in a bug and spit out my mouthpiece in total disgust…which resulted in me gulping in a mouthful of saltwater and choking. Luckily, he hasn’t read any of my mom’s books to know of this little incident.

I could get used to this anonymity.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leslea Wahl

Leslea Wahl is an award-winning author of adventurous teen mysteries. She not only writes for teens but is also an avid reviewer of Christian fiction. Her journey to become an author came through a search for value-based fiction for her own children. Leslea now strives to be an advocate for other families battling against society’s secular messages through her faith-based writing and reviews.

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


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Into the Spotlight, bookmark, bible verse magnet, and designer soap!

Into the Spotlight JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 4, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 11, 2023. 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours


 


Saturday, December 31, 2022

Reading Challenges for 2023!

Happy New Year!
 
I'm excited to be participating in two reading challenges this year! I haven't successfully completed a year-long challenge in the past, despite my good intentions, but these two look like I'll be able to accomplish them. The graphics link to the original blog posts if you'd like to join in! I'll be sharing my progress on social media throughout the year, and will do a halfway check-in post on the blog in the summer.



 


Monday, December 19, 2022

Book Tour & Review: The Sisters of Sea View by Julie Klassen





My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing


Synopsis

Some guests have come for a holiday, others for hidden reasons of their own . . .

When their father's death leaves them impoverished, Sarah Summers and her genteel sisters fear they will be forced to sell the house and separate to earn livelihoods as governesses or companions. Determined to stay together, Sarah convinces them to open their seaside home to guests to make ends meet and provide for their ailing mother. Instead of the elderly invalids they expect to receive, however, they find themselves hosting eligible gentlemen. Sarah is soon torn between a growing attraction to a mysterious Scottish widower and duty to her family.

Viola Summers wears a veil to cover her scar. When forced to choose between helping in her family's new guest house and earning money to hire a maid to do her share, she chooses the latter. She reluctantly agrees to read to some of Sidmouth's many invalids, preferring the company of a few elders with failing eyesight to the fashionable guests staying in their home. But when her first client turns out to be a wounded officer in his thirties, Viola soon wishes she had chosen differently. Her new situation exposes her scars--both visible and those hidden deep within--and her cloistered heart will never be the same.

Join the Summers sisters on the Devonshire coast, where they discover the power of friendship, loyalty, love, and new beginnings.

My Review

Julie Klassen is an auto-read author for me, and I'm so excited for a new series to devour! The Sisters of Sea View very much has the vibe of her Ivy Hill series, with a slower pace and rich details intricately weaving together the lives of her characters and immersing the reader in the setting. The story is told from multiple perspectives, and doesn't focus on one couple only, but creates an ensemble cast that I anticipate will continue throughout the rest of the books. Each sister has her own unique and vibrant personality, and I loved seeing them come into their own and develop their strengths in their new circumstances. Such a cozy read that held my interest through each page and plot development. I can't wait for the next installment!

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.

Author Julie Klassen sends her greetings from Sidmouth, the location of her newest book, The Sisters of Sea View



Read an exclusive interview with author Julie Klassen at Austenprose


ADVANCE PRAISE

“Jane Austen fans will delight in this nimble series launch…Klassen excels at weaving her various story lines, each emphasizing the colorful qualities of her characters and allowing them the space to shine. Readers will be eager for the next installment.” —Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)


PRAISE FOR THE NOVELS OF JULIE KLASSEN

“Julie Klassen delights with a winsome love story…” —Publisher’s Weekly, on A Castaway in Cornwall

“I couldn’t put it down! It you are a historical fiction fan you need this one on your radar! It was a spooky delight full of heart. ”—Anne Mendez, The Lit B****, on Shadows of Swanford Abbey

“…a wonderfully engaging novel full of intriguing characters and storylines. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for more in the series.” —Laura Gerold, Laura’s Reviews, on The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill


About the Author


Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold over a million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.

Friday, December 16, 2022

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows by S.L. Dooley

Portal Slayer JustRead Blog Tour 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows by S.L. Dooley, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows Title: Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows 
Series Realms of the Periferie #3 
Author: S.L. Dooley 
Publisher: Torn Parchment 
Release Date: December 2, 2022 
Genre: Fantasy (clean)

Darkness comes in many forms.

Raelyn is about to encounter them all. 
 
Hidden away in the Schade Catacombs, a single portal remains in Alnok. And, pushed to near defeat, Cosyn has unleashed all his forces, taking Earth to the brink of a world war. Raelyn, in the midst of her own debilitating doubt, finds a new ally. But when no one will follow, she strikes out on her own, determined to reach the catacombs and close the portal. Only then can she finally return home. 

In the far north, her mentor and guide Kade, wounded and desperate, leads a band of soldiers, also on a path to the catacombs. 

As an impenetrable darkness falls on the realm of Alnok and Earth’s annihilation seems inevitable, Raelyn finds nothing is what it seems. Her calling, her newfound skills, even her reason for being in Alnok are shrouded in uncertainty. 

But she must uncover the light in the darkness of Alnok, and her own heart, to locate and destroy Cosyn’s last link to Earth. If she fails, she will have no home to return to.

PURCHASE LINKS: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub

EXCERPT

 
Kade let out a long, slow breath. It was time to surrender what he could not control. To rest in this moment. He let go of his anxious thoughts, one by one, as though setting them adrift on the river.

Their fate in the catacombs . . .

Raelyn’s location and condition . . .

Ditimer’s betrayal . . .

The current carried each away, the water dispersing them until they were diluted and powerless.

A heat kindled in Kade’s chest. A stirring beneath the wound, deep in his heart, something in his bones. The heat flowed down his arms and to his hands. A light flickered in his palms. Pale, unnoticeable to anyone but him.
 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

S.L. Dooley

S.L. Dooley is a fantasy author looking for a neverending story to go boldly through the wardrobe into another adventure. She's a wife and mother of two grown kids. She lives in Texas where she collects old books and new journals.

Connect with S.L. by visiting sldooley.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a copy of the Realms of the Periferie trilogy, tea, and a mug!

Portal Slayer: Beneath the Shadows JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 12, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 19, 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours

 


Thursday, December 15, 2022

Blog Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane by Melissa McClone

The Last Cottage On Pinewood Lane JustRead Blog + Review Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane by Melissa McClone, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane Title: The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane 
Series: Hope Crossing #2 
Author: Melissa McClone 
Publisher: Independently Published 
Release Date: December 14, 2022
Genre: Sweet/Clean Contemporary Romance (Christmas/Holiday)

She’s his Christmas miracle. Now all he has to do is convince her of that…

Figure skater Tasha Ramson used to love the holidays. But with her career on the skids, she needs a break from the festive season—and Berry Lake is the perfect place to take it. Organizing a Christmas fundraiser was not on her agenda. Neither was falling for the small town’s handsome lawyer. But…she did… 

Elias Carpenter needs a break, too. Between the demands of his family firm and managing the ice show fundraiser, he’s at the end of his rope. Tasha showing up is the best thing that could’ve happened for him professionally and personally. Now, if only he could convince her to move him out of the friendzone… 

When a pesky ghost from Tasha’s past arrives to wreck her present, will she hang onto Elias when it matters most? Or will she let her happily ever after skate away forever?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

EXCERPT

“I haven’t skated since I was a teenager.”

“What’s stopping you now?” she asked.

“No idea. Especially with the money going to a good cause.”

She peered around him. “The line for skates isn’t long.”

Elias glanced over his shoulder. “That’s the shortest it’s been compared to earlier.”

“Nothing to stop you.”

“Except I might fall flat on my face.”

She couldn’t tell if he was making an excuse or not. “Everyone falls. I did this morning. No big deal.”

“You fell because of Higgins. You wouldn’t have otherwise.”

Ninety-nine percent true—because slips happened to everyone—but she wouldn’t admit that aloud. “Skate.”

He opened his mouth and then closed it. “If you’ll skate with me.”

Yes. Desire hit hard and fast. The joy coming from the rink was palpable. But self-preservation warned against it. “I…can’t.”

“Come on,” Elias urged in a playful tone. “I can tell you want to.”

Tasha did, but his recognizing that surprised her. The only problem? She hadn’t skated in public—outside of choreographing—in three years. Berry Lake might be a small town—with fewer people than Wishing Bay—but she no longer wanted to be in the limelight. Not that anyone would recognize her after quitting the sport after Worlds.

She struggled with what to say. “I do, but…”

“No buts. I don’t know what to do out there. It’s been that long.” The words rushed out. He didn’t even stop for a breath, but she discerned each one. “Follow me.”

 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Melissa McClone

USA TODAY bestselling, award winning author Melissa McClone writes heartwarming women’s fiction and sweet contemporary romance novels for Tule Publishing Group, Harlequin Books, and Cardinal Press. She has also optioned two screenplays. When she’s not writing relatable characters and sigh-worthy happy endings, she spends her time in the rainy Pacific Northwest reading from her Kindle’s ever-growing TBR, napping with her Norwegian Elkhound and two mini panthers, and decorating her Happy Planner. Melissa graduated from Stanford University with a mechanical engineering degree, but discovered she prefers writing happily ever afters to jet engine testing and analysis.

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


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a Christmas Mystery Prize Pack including a $10 Amazon card, a $10 Starbucks card, and Christmas items!

The Last Cottage on Pinewood Lane JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 14, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 21, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No shipping restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


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

JustRead Publicity Tours





Tuesday, December 13, 2022

Book Tour, Review & Giveaway: My Testimeny Tree by Sierra Wilson, illustrated by Nicole Koa


 
My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



About the Book

My testimony is special.

It's the spiritual things I know.

And just like a tree,

Every day I'll help it grow.


From tiny seed to strong, fruitful tree, a testimony is something that must be nurtured and cared for your whole life through. With beautiful illustrations and poetry, this story of faith helps children understand what a testimony is and how to help it thrive, bringing them closer to Heavenly Father and the Savior.

My Review

I loved this sweet book! It takes the metaphor of growing our testimony like a tree, and focuses on simple actions children (and adults!) can do to nourish spirituality. I appreciated that it defined a testimony first, as "the spiritual things I know." The illustrations are adorable, and help visualize the connection between the two parts of the metaphor. The message that a testimony is something to be developed during a process of faithful choices is vital for our children to learn. and This is a wonderful book that is perfect for young to older Primary aged children. I'll be bringing our copy to church for my daughter to read during sacrament meeting on Fast Sundays especially. My Testimony Tree would make a great gift!

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.

About the Author


Sierra Wilson is the author of several faith-filled picture books including I Can Be Like Jesus, The Atonement of Jesus Christ is for Me, and Standout Saints: Church History Heroes from Around the World. She currently lives in Alberta, Canada where she adores hiking, skiing, and adventuring with her husband and five children. 
 
 
 Giveaway
 
ENTER HERE
 

Friday, December 9, 2022

Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: Meriden Park by Julie Daines

Meriden Park JustRead Blog + Review Tour 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Meriden Park by Julie Daines, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Meriden Park Title: Meriden Park 
Author: Julie Daines 
Publisher: Covenant Communications 
Release Date: December 5, 2022 
Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance/Historical/Regency/Suspense

Following her childhood rescue from the gutters of Calcutta, Mary Grace’s life has been an astonishing rags-to-riches tale. The Wellings raised the half-Indian orphan with all the love and care the childless couple possessed, allowing her to grow into a beautiful and refined woman. But upon Mr. Welling’s death, it is time for Mrs. Welling to take Mary home to England―home to Meriden Park.

Despite her genial nature, Mary is received with suspicion by the villagers. For his part, however, Mr. Robert Markham is intrigued by the curious new beauty in town. Determined to make her acquaintance, he offers Mary a bargain she can’t refuse: a hot cross bun for a kiss. That seemingly innocent exchange is the first of many encounters between Robert and Mary, whose friendship blossoms into love during long walks in the privacy of Sherwood Forest. But the shadows of the forest hide a sinister secret, one Mary fears Robert might be a part of. As the mystery of the recent string of murders creeps closer and closer, Robert and Mary are drawn into a dangerous game, and unless she can unearth the truth, the couple risks losing one another forever.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

 

My Review

 Robin Hood meets Regency? I'm all there for it! I can always count on Julie Daines to take me away with a wonderful story, and she really delivered with Meriden Park. The characters are unique and vibrant, with admirable strengths, and I loved getting to know them as their layers are revealed. Robert and Mary develop a friendship that provides a good foundation for a deeper relationship as they choose to trust and pursue the intrigue and get caught in the action. They have great banter which is always a pleasure to read! The story is well rounded with a variety of supporting characters that brought depth and provided suspense that moved the story along at a good pace- I didn't want to put the book down! Highly recommend to fans of retellings and sweet Regency 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.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julie Daines

Julie Daines is an award-winning and best-selling author. She was born in Concord, Massachusetts, and was raised in Utah. She spent eighteen months living in London, where she studied and fell in love with English literature, sticky toffee pudding, and the mysterious guy who ran the kebab store around the corner.

She loves reading, writing, and watching movies—anything that transports her to another world. She picks Captain Wentworth over Mr. Darcy, firmly believes in second breakfast, and never leaves home without her vervain.

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


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of book, $25 Amazon gift card, bookmark, stickers, and button.

Meriden Park JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 5, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 12, 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours





Wednesday, December 7, 2022

Blog Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: A Christmas Bargain by Mindy Obenhaus

A Christmas Bargain JustRead Blog + Review Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for A Christmas Bargain by Mindy Obenhaus, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Christmas Bargain Title: A Christmas Bargain 
Series: Hope Crossing #2 
Author: Mindy Obenhaus 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: November 29, 2022 
Genre: Christian, Contemporary Romance, Christmas 
 
Can a property dispute… 

Turn into a holiday blessing? 

When single mom Annalise Grant inherits a fledgling Christmas tree farm in Texas, she vows to do whatever it takes to make it a success. But when neighbor Hawkins Prescott claims some of her trees are on his property, the only option is a partnership. As Christmas draws closer, Annalise and Hawkins find themselves growing closer as well. Could a family by Christmas become part of the deal? 

A HOPE CROSSING ROMANCE 

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

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


EXCERPT


Armed with a shearing knife, he attacked his fourth tree of the morning. Moving it this way and that, he felt a bit like a swashbuckler. When he took a step back to evaluate his latest conquest, notes of Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” carried on the gentle morning breeze.

Turning, he saw Annalise coming toward him wearing a pair of skinny jeans and a Merry Christmas T-shirt, a shearing knife in one hand and an all-too enticing smile on her face.

“I didn’t hear you drive up.”

“That’s because I’m stealthy, like a ninja.” Stepping back, she struck a silly pose, wielding her makeshift sword.

He couldn’t contain his laughter. He hadn’t seen this playful side of her before. And after all the struggles she’d faced since arriving in Hope Crossing, it did his heart good.

“I don’t think ninjas play Christmas music on their phone.”

Straightening, she stepped in front of him, close enough that he caught the aroma of what he was coming to think of as her trademark floral fragrance. “They do if they’re North Pole ninjas.” The mischief that sparkled in her blue eyes had him taking a step back. This fun, playful Annalise was way too captivating.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mindy Obenhaus

Award-winning author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching the Hallmark Channel.

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


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of A Christmas Bargain and a $25 Amazon gift card!

A Christmas Bargain JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 7, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 14, 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours




Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Christmas at Whispering Creek by Barbara M. Britton

Christmas at Whispering Creek JustRead Blog Tour 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Christmas at Whispering Creek by Barbara M. Britton, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Christmas at Whispering Creek Title: Christmas at Whispering Creek 
Author: Barbara M. Britton 
Publisher: Pelican Book Group-White Rose 
Release Date: November 30, 2022 
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance 

All Samantha Williams wants is to use her teaching degree to instruct a classroom of second graders. With a breast cancer diagnosis at the age of twenty-three, and failed reconstruction surgery, Sam finds herself without a job and temporarily living with her parents. This isn’t the life Sam expected. When a family friend dies and leaves Sam a house and land in Whispering Creek, Tennessee, Sam must decide if leaving Wisconsin for Southern living is in her lesson plans. 

Nashville native, Cole Donoven, left his family’s electrical business to write country music. When Cole’s song writing partner and girlfriend dumps him for a country music star, Cole abandons Nashville to hold up in Whispering Creek and compose one more song. The last thing Cole expects to find in the sleepy small town is a deceased friend, estate squabbles, and a Northern beauty. Will the chaos in Whispering Creek help create a bestselling song for Cole and possibly help him find a life-long collaborator?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub


EXCERPT


Samantha wiped a tear from her eye and set her coffee cup on the side table. “Wow. I’m in shock. I mean…I never expected Ted to leave me his house.” She needed money to pay medical bills, not property requiring upkeep. Although knowing Ted, his house would be pristine. His late wife, Nan, always kept a tidy home. “I’m not ungrateful.” I sure sound like it. “It’s, um, I don’t have a lot of income right now. I work part-time in a floral shop.” Instead of teaching a classroom of second graders. Thank you, cancer. She laced her fingers and tried to keep the shaking to a minimum. Would this inheritance add to her debt?

Chester held up a well-manicured hand and grinned. “I imagine the last thing you expected was to be a homeowner in Tennessee.”

“The idea wasn’t even on her one-in-a-million chance list.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Barbara M. Britton

Barbara M. Britton lives in Southeast, Wisconsin. She writes Christian Fiction from Bible Times to modern day USA. Barbara has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate.

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


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a Christmas at Whispering Creek book box filled with books and goodies!

Christmas at Whispering Creek JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 6, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 13, 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. International prize, ebook only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


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

JustRead Publicity Tours





Friday, December 2, 2022

Review: The Best Intentions by Sarah M. Eden


Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Best Intentions by Sarah M. Eden, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK


My rating: 



Synopsis

In the eyes of London Society, Gillian Phelps is suitable enough. Though the ton whispers about her change of residence, any speculation remains just that: ballroom gossip. No one―not even the other Huntresses, the group of ladies she calls her dearest friends―knows that she is harboring a devastating family secret. Gillian has become adept at hiding the reality of her circumstances, but the close quarters of a house party will test her ability to conceal the crushing truth. And with so many people to deceive, the late arrival of another guest is a most unwelcome surprise.

Despite his standing as a gentleman of the ton, in truth, Scott Sarvol possesses little more than two debt-riddled estates. When an opportunity arises to survey one of his properties, he travels north, only to find himself an unwitting guest at Artemis Jonquil’s house party. He is warmly welcomed by all―except the aloof Miss Gillian Phelps. But when Scott proves himself unexpectedly helpful in a crisis, his acquaintance with Gillian shifts from wariness to something warmer.

As both her charade and her feelings for Scott deepen, Gillian realizes that the truth could spell not only a devastating fall from Society but also a shattered heart.


My Review

I adore this group of young women and the bond they share! They are highly protective of each other in a society that could often be cruel. Gillian is more wary than the others since she has a secret to hide about her family. She has quite a journey as she learns to risk and trust. Scott also has baggage from the abusive uncle he inherited debt-ridden properties from. I loved the affection and comfort Mater gives him as he tries to navigate the difficult and seemingly impossible circumstances of making his estates solvent. Gillian and Scott started on rocky ground because of her wariness, but the sweet relationship they develop naturally grows in romantic chemistry. The other characters brought so much to the story and I’m always happy to revisit the Jonquils and Lancasters. There are strong themes of family, both of dealing with complicated dynamics and making family where you find kindred spirits. Loving this new series!

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 these books connected to The Huntresses series . . .



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah M. Eden is a USA Today bestselling author of multiple historical romances, including AML's "2013 Novel of the Year" and Foreword Review’s 2013 “IndieFab Book of the Year” gold medal winner for Best Romance, Longing for Home, and the Whitney Award's "2014 Novel of the Year," Longing for Home: Hope Springs. Combining her obsession with history and affinity for tender love stories, Sarah loves crafting witty characters and heartfelt romances set against rich historical backdrops. She holds a Bachelor's degree in research and happily spends hours perusing the reference shelves of her local library. Sarah lives with her husband, kids, and mischievous dog in the shadow of a snow-capped mountain she has never attempted to ski.

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


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of book, $25 Amazon gift card, bookmark, stickers, and button.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 28, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 5, 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


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

JustRead Publicity Tours