Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Review: Cross-Country Christmas by Laurie Lewis


My rating: 3 stars / I liked it



Synopsis

When CC Cippolini is offered a temp job driving a custom car across the country, she leaps at the chance to leave Chicago, put her past in the rearview mirror, and make a fresh start. But one car crash and broken cattle fence later, CC ends up at the home of ruggedly handsome rancher Reese Brockbank.

Reese doesn’t hesitate to rescue the reckless woman who has crashed into his life, but when circumstances require him to put CC up in his house for a few days, he vows to remain aloof—a woman already derailed his life once. As CC’s warmth and childlike love of Christmas turn his beautiful but sterile house into a home, however, she wears down his defenses. Still, something in her story doesn’t quite add up, and Reese’s questions soon cause CC to retreat.

The pain of their pasts has brought them to this moment, but will they seize it or put the possibility of love in jeopardy?


My Review

This was a heartwarming story of a woman with no family and a man with no hope discovering love together. I loved the premise of Reese rescuing CC from a car wreck in a snowstorm, and the forced proximity while she stayed with him and the delightful couple who help work the ranch. I definitely got Hallmark-movie vibes as I read- both the pros and the cons. The dialogue was stilted, even when they were supposed to be bantering, which killed the chemistry for me. The setting was idealistic, but there was too much description of the specifics and I lost interest in CC's reaction to the relative opulence instead of feeling the homey vibe. I loved Emmie and Carlos as they encouraged Reese and CC, while also opening up about their own struggles. Reese and CC each got tied up in their own thoughts quite a bit which resulted in too much angst for me without realistic progress in their relationship. There is a bit of suspense built into the plot with CC's ex-fiance and mystery mother as the local sheriff investigates her background. I think this story could be enjoyed by others but it was a bit of a miss for me.

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.


Sunday, March 19, 2023

Review: Of Mist and Mirrors by Rebecca Connolly



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

To thine own side be true...

Minerva Dalton is an experienced operative among the Agents of the Convent and not easily ruffled by the nature of her work. But when the first social event of her assignment is interrupted by another operative using the same alias surname as her own, she has to make a sudden adjustment that changes the course of both missions. And that of her life.

Griffin Russell did not expect the surprise that was Minerva when he'd taken this assignment, but he was not about to argue with a woman who was stunning as well as dangerous. He takes up an unlikely partnership with her to protect them both from discovery and failure, and discovers just how skilled and accomplished an agent she truly is.

Working together, can they accomplish both missions and not kill each other in the process? Or will something far more complicated and far less expected arise from their predicament?


My Review

What a dynamic couple! Minerva and Griffin are both skilled and experienced spies for England, but this is their first time working together. I loved what they both brought to the table, and their banter was always entertaining. Griffin is a charming antagonizer, and Minerva is alternately stoic, annoyed, and sassy. Their first meeting was memorable for them both, and their attraction grows as they develop trust and respect for the true person beneath each of their facades. The layered plot kept the pace moving as Minerva and Griffin establish their position as a power couple in society, seek out traitors, and search for clues of a missing person of interest. I'm always intrigued and enthralled by this author's Regency books with suspense woven in with the 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.

Don't miss the previous books in the Agents of the Convent series . . .


Review: Scotland's Melody by Katie Stewart Stone



My rating: 2 stars / It was okay



Synopsis

Melody Foster has been granted every luxury available save one: the ability to love whom she chooses. When her father reveals that she is to marry a wild Scot she’s never met, Melody defies him and declares she will never marry without affection. Her choice to marry Richard, a footman in her father’s household, prompts her family to disown her, and she goes to London to risk everything for love. But she is blindsided. Without a penny to her name, her love is worthless to Richard, and he decides to change tactics. Perhaps she could still serve a purpose—after all, her family can’t sit idly by while she is held for ransom . . .

Desperate to escape the man she thought she loved, Melody finds allies to aid her: first, her old governess and then Cameron Findlay, a handsome stranger who is startled by the distraught young woman who catapulted into his life. Cam finds himself sympathetic to the young woman’s plight, so he and his sister agree to take her on as a servant in their household. Cam and Melody are powerfully drawn to one another, but can Melody ever trust her heart when it was so terribly wrong before?


My Review

Such an impetuous main character! My head was spinning as she jumps from one fire into the next. She has learned to mistrust due to her betrayal from the footman, but her immaturity continues to lead her into situations she can't control. I admired her work ethic when staying with her former governess in London, but marveled at her idiocy in not being able to keep herself safe. Cam and his sister Elise were much more likeable, but I struggled to understand what he sees in Melody. The element of danger and hidden identity kept the pace moving forward, but I felt that Cam and Melody's relationship made jumps that didn't feel natural to the characters, especially Cam. I decided to put the book down about halfway through when I felt the discord was overshadowing my reading experience. Other reader friends with similar taste as me really enjoyed the book, so I wouldn't discourage anyone from reading it; it just happened to not be my cup of tea.

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.


Wednesday, March 15, 2023

Book Tour & Excerpt: To Win Her Hand by Jen Geigle Johnson





Synopsis

An expert at winning a woman's hand. A woman who cannot be won.

Lord Featherstone has the world on his shoulders. Or at least his world. With two brothers and a failing estate he must make funds somehow. But what happens when he falls for a woman? Will his tactics work when the situation is so close and personal?

Everyone thinks Lady Loveluck is a wealthy widow. What they don't know is that she is on the brink of hiring herself out as a Governess in order to pay for her next meal. The only thing keeping her from employment is a growing reputation as a matchmaker. As long as she never falls for another man, as long as she doesn't allow herself to be fooled into marrying, she will be just fine.

But she never counted on being caught up in the beguiling tactics of London's renowned and not so secret matchmaker for men.

Excerpt


She pursed her lips. “What are they doing?”

Lady Loveluck sighed. “I imagine they are primping like peacocks in the hope we will notice and stand at their sides.”

“Oh? Then let’s make our way over.”

She shook her head. “We cannot. That is a most ridiculous display, and I, for one, am not a woman to chase after a man simply because he waved hello in an overly friendly way and then looked away.” She shook her head again. “No, we will instead turn to the side, right here, and speak to this group.”

Three young men stood not too far from them. One had glanced toward Miss Anna more than once. He was tall, pleasing, and would do nicely, if not for a beau, at least for a distraction. And luckily for them all, Lady Loveluck knew the man to his right.

She approached with a smile. “Is that Lord Templeton I see?”

A large smile responded, along with an offer of his elbow. “It is indeed. I am most pleased to see you, Lady Loveluck. And who is this vision at your side?”

“This, I’m so pleased to present, is Miss Anna. And might I add that you are among the first to boast an acquaintance with my particular friend.”

“Then I am most fortunate.” He reached for her hand and placed his lips on it. “Lord Templeton at your service.”

Miss Anna’s smile was genuine as she looked up into his face. “I’m pleased to meet you. How are you enjoying this lovely weather?”

“Oh, it is grand indeed and has made it possible for us to meet so many who will be participating this Season.”

“Yes, most fortunate to be blessed with good weather.”

She looked as though she might panic for a moment with nothing to say, but Lord Templeton smiled. “Have you just recently arrived, then?”

She nodded in obvious relief at an easy topic. “I have, yes. I’ve been living on our country estate in Hereford until now.”

“Your first time in London, then?” His smile grew. “I’d be pleased to offer my assistance. Shall we promenade? Perhaps meet some more people you will see at the dinners and balls?”

“Oh yes, I would like that, thank you.”

Lady Loveluck dashed a grateful expression toward Lord Templeton, but he didn’t see it. His focus had shifted to Miss Anna. Good news indeed. Perhaps the ever-agreeable Lord Templeton would be distracted by someone at last. If Miss Anna had caught his eye, she was fortunate, and Lady Loveluck’s work would be complete. Time to collect on her wager. Her smile grew. She checked the surrounding groups for any sign of Lord Featherstone or Mr. Hartsworth. They had disappeared from view.

Unfortunate.

This new possible victory for Miss Anna would be some‐ thing lovely to show off to her new rival.

She turned away from the group and shifted attention to the area around them. In many ways, it would be lovely to leave London, to relax, do what she wished, when she wished. But there would be no opportunity for any of that anytime soon, not while she needed food to eat. Almost all potential clients would be here in London or perhaps Bath or Brighton. Where clients were, she needed to also be. She’d been selling off properties, hoping no one would be any wiser to her situation. With everyone around her assuming her to be one of the more wealthy women in the Ton, the likes of Miss Anna herself, she had to keep up appearances, if only to continue her business. The solicitor had told her how long it would take to pay off her late husband’s debts. She daren’t think of the amount of years. Every new client carved off a few more of those years.

A lovely smell made her smile and melt a little bit. “Looking concerned. Things not going well for you with Miss Anna?”

She relaxed her face and calmed her expression, turning to Lord Featherstone. “Just the man I wished to gloat to.”

“Gloat?” He lifted his chin, searching the area. “Ah, Templeton? You can’t be serious—or rather, he certainly is not.”

“Isn’t he? He barely glanced in my direction once he laid eyes on Miss Anna. You should not be so quick to judge.”

“I would be surprised indeed, but I’ve been known to be wrong . . . once.” He laughed but then studied her again. His eyes dashed with hints of concern. “Then why the troubled expression? I felt as if the world weighed for a moment on your shoulders. Are you Atlas? Bearing the burdens for us all?”

His tone was jovial, but his expression caring. For the briefest moment, she would have shared a portion of her burden, testing his empathy, but someone laughed nearby and reminded her that no one wanted to hear her burdens, not really. They didn’t care, or they were pleased to hear her suffering. And so, she lifted a shoulder. “Lord Featherstone, don’t we all have our concerns now and again? This shall pass.”

“But will it? Perhaps it need not pass alone?” He stepped closer. “Lady Loveluck.” His eyes were wide, sincere, his face tenderly turned toward her, his hand lifted as though to place on the side of her face, but it lowered.

For a moment she was at his command, drawn into the depths of his eyes, cradled in the embrace of his words. What a relief to share her burdens, to trust another . . . She blinked and remembered that she was standing in front of the expert of wooing women in all of London. “Oh, you are too good.” She stepped away. “I don’t need your methods on me. I see they are effective.” She mock fanned herself. “But unnecessary. Practice on someone else.”

A bit of something sad crossed his expression and then it was gone. He bowed with a flourish. “I see I have met my match indeed. Do not underestimate your own power, my lady. You are quite captivating, even for me.”

She did not believe him, but smiled and played his game. “It’s a wonder you aren’t married yourself.”

“Perhaps if I find the woman who accepts my offerings as what they are, a woman who believes my sincerity, who laughs at my jokes and cries at my sorrows. Perhaps if there is such a woman, and she and I connect in the right manner with the exact right timing, perhaps I would find myself married.” He shrugged.

“It’s a wonder anyone finds a match when you think of it that way.”

“A wonder indeed.” The longing in his expression was curious to Lady Loveluck. Did Lord Featherstone wish for a wife? She could hardly believe it.

Chapter two, page 31-37 From To Win Her Hand © 2022, Jen Geigle Johnson, published by King’s Row Press



PRAISE FOR TO WIN HER HAND

"I loved the character growth, watching them learn more about the other’s heart and hardships, and the realization that perhaps they had more choices than they first thought. Such a sweet regency. I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this one."— Makayla Branson, Reading Past Bedtime

“The house party, the quiet moments, the collection of other characters, and much more all combined together made this is delightful read.”— Julie Carpenter, Goodreads

“Two matchmakers with a wager. What fun for all! [A] heart touching story.”— Shauna Jones, Goodreads


About the Author
 
Jen Geigle Johnson is an award-winning author, including the GOLD in Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards and LDSPMA Praiseworthy's top award for Romance.

Jen has more stories circulating in her brain than can possibly be told. She discovered her passion for England while kayaking on the Thames near London as a young teenager. History is her main jam. Her literary heroes include the greats: Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. But she has modern sensibilities as well.

Six children and an inspiring husband keep her going and make certain she doesn't stay glued to a keyboard or lost in obscure fascinating details of old castles.

Now, she loves to share bits of history that might otherwise be forgotten. Whether in Regency England, the French Revolution, or Colonial America, her romance novels are much like life is supposed to be: full of adventure.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Thursday, March 9, 2023

Review: His Alaskan Redemption by Heidi McCahan



My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it



Synopsis

Earning her trust...
Is the start of his second chance.


Crab fisherman Gus Colman is just trying to make a living for his daughter. But when his fishing boat capsizes, he’s injured and stranded in Hearts Bay, Alaska, where he comes face-to-face with Mia Madden—his late best friend’s fiancée. As she helps him recover, he works hard to prove he’s changed. But could Mia ever love another man who risks his life at sea?


My Review

Alaska is one of my favorite book settings for three reasons- everything seems larger than life, the environment is so different from where I live (Southern CA), and visiting there is on my bucket list! Watching shows like Deadliest Catch with my husband give me an idea of the dangers of crab fishing, and the author explores that lifestyle with Mia and Gus. As a nurse Mia is a natural caretaker, and falls into that role with Gus during his recovery despite her inner warnings to avoid another fisherman- even her fiancée's closest friend. There is a definite struggle as they fall for each other- both aware of the difficulties which prevent them from holding on to hope for a future together. Learning to rely on faith is a big theme and I loved that Gus embraced his belief and allowed it to give him strength in his career and as a father. I had a hard time relating to Mia's tense personality, but she grew on me towards the end as she finally allowed herself to accept happiness.

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 previous books in the Home to Hearts Bay series . . .


Monday, March 6, 2023

Review: Safe in His Arms by Colleen Coble



My rating: 2 stars / It was okay



Synopsis

Sometimes it takes a stranger to see you as you really are.

Born and raised on sprawling Texas land, Margaret O’Brien prides herself on her competence as a rancher. But her father believes she’s made for more than just dawn-to-dusk work. He wants her to have the love of a good man, to raise children, to build a life. But Margaret gave up such dreams years ago. She’s convinced no man would have her, that the ranch is her life now.

So when Margaret’s father hires Daniel Cutler as a new foreman, she’s frustrated and suspicious. Then an overheard conversation links him with a gang of bank robbers, and she’s downright worried. Daniel swears he’s not involved, but Margaret’s not convinced. She knows the man still has secrets. But would a criminal be so kind and talk so convincingly of his faith? As a series of tragic “accidents” threatens all she holds dear, Margaret must decide what to trust: her own ears, her best judgment . . . or what her heart keeps telling her.


My Review

Historical westerns are one of my favorite genres, but this one was a miss for me. I didn't connect with the characters or find the plot very engaging. I felt like the motives and personalities shifted in ways that were not part of a character arc but seemed incongruous. Margaret's father especially did not make much sense and he seemed more like a plot device. I missed the layers I usually enjoy discovering in the characters.

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.


Saturday, March 4, 2023

Review: Betting on the Boy Next Door by Melanie Jacobson



My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing



Synopsis

I’m a nurse who wants to be a rock star—a secret I don’t even tell my best friends and roommates. So when one of them—Ruby—gets it into her head to find me a man, I can’t explain why I don’t have time for her matchmaking. Ruby turns it into a bet to make sure I go along with it. I say yes, but won’t matter. My ex taught me the most important thing about men: you can’t count on them.

When Ruby picks the worst possible guy for me, I know I’ve got this in the bag. Sure, our brand-new neighbor, Josh, is hot, but he’s the privileged scion of an Austin family whose money is so old, it’s dusty. Been there, done that, and I’m not going back.

The thing is, Josh isn't easy to shake, especially not after he discovers my secret double-life. With the help of a fake dating scheme, a cursing parrot, and our late-night balcony talks, I’m starting to think he’s a risk worth taking—even when all the evidence says I better run.


My Review

What a fun book! I love Sami's rock star persona and the release she finds there creatively and emotionally. Poor Josh doesn't stand a chance since he has the same privileged upbringing as Sami's ex who inspired her angry-girl-rock lyrics. I loved his humility and determination to pursue her in long-game style, waiting for her to be ready for him, all while showing her how he can bet here for her in the ways that are most meaningful to her. Sami and Josh both have their emotional baggage, and they help each other slowly unpack it and let go during their lovely friendship and rocky romance full of chemistry and frustrating tension. I just gotta say, the scene with the snake Josh is baby-sitting is one of my favorites this year! Fans of rom-coms with depth won't want to miss this 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.


Thursday, March 2, 2023

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer

Beyond the Gray Mountains JustRead Blog + Review Tour 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Beyond the Gray Mountains by Tricia Goyer, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Beyond the Gray Mountains Title: Beyond the Gray Mountains 
Series: Big Sky Amish #1 
Author: Tricia Goyer 
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing 
Release Date: February 28, 2023 
Genre: Christian Contemporary Amish Romance

Marianna Sommer always dreamed of a simple Amish wedding, but there’s nothing simple about marrying rock star Ben Stone. She loves him—but what about her traditions? Worse, suddenly Ben has questions—the kind that have him putting their wedding on hold.

Ben loves Marianna, but he has regrets—and fears—that are suddenly getting in the way of his happy ending. He doubts he’s going to “hear from God” in the high mountains like Marianna’s father suggests. But sure, he’ll go… 

But he might not return. Because high on the continental divide, trouble finds them. Now, it’ll take a miracle for Ben, Abe, and Abe’s brother, Ike, to make it down alive. Maybe Ben will hear from God after all…but if he does, can he become the man he needs to be to save them…and keep Marianna’s heart? 

When a runaway horse with a bloody saddle shows up, not only is the media alerted, but Marianna fears she’ll lose them all—her uncle, her father, and her beloved Ben. Suddenly she doesn’t care what the wedding looks like…as long as Ben makes it home. 

But is there more to Ben than she knows? And when she discovers his secrets, what sacrifices will she make to save…and marry…the man she loves? 

Fall in love with the first book in the cherished Big Sky Amish Collection.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound

 

Excerpt


Saturday, June 24, Kalispell, Montana

“How hard can it be to plan one wedding?” Marianna Sommer mumbled to herself as she strode down Main Street in Kalispell toward the dress shop—the Englisch dress shop. The warm spring breeze blew softly, ruffling strands of light-brown hair that, for most of her life, had been neatly secured under her kapp.

But no longer.

On one side of Marianna paced her friend Annie Johnson, wearing her typical jeans, flannel shirt, and cowboy boots. In her mid-forties, Annie was the owner of the Kootenai Kraft and Grocery. Along with providing a location where one could buy anything from bulk flour and garden seeds to fencing and fishing supplies, Annie was also known to provide a listening ear and a boost of moral support. And this was why she’d offered to take Marianna and her mother dress shopping today.

Marianna had never attended an Englisch wedding, much less planned one. Yet now that she was marrying Ben Stone—the handsome musician with his dark hair, bright blue eyes, and easy smile—many changes would be taking place.

Starting with choosing a wedding dress.

Mem padded on the other side of Marianna in a typical Amish dress, apron, and kapp. She walked with her head lowered and shoulders slumped. She crossed her arms over her chest and uncrossed them as if she didn’t know what to do with herself. It was partly because Mem didn’t have baby Joy on her hip. Yet Marianna also knew this wasn’t how Mem had planned her life. First, losing her oldest two daughters years ago in a buggy accident, and now, having Marianna marry an Englischer. Every Amish mother dreamed of her daughters growing up and following in her footsteps. For Mem, this wouldn’t be so.

Lord, help me to get through this with peace…marrying the man I love yet also honoring my family and Amish friends. Was that even possible?

Other Books In Series

On the Golden Cliffs Under the Blue Skies


About the Author

Tricia Goyer

Tricia Goyer writes out of her passion for God and her love for family and others. The author of more than 70 books, she writes both historical fiction and nonfiction related to family and parenting.

This USA Today best-selling author has won a two Carol Awards and a Retailer’s Best Award. She was also an ECPA Gold-Medallion Nominee and a Christy Award Nominee and won Writer of the Year from the Mt. Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Tricia’s contemporary and historical novels feature strong women overcoming great challenges. She is a beloved author of Amish fiction, having written the Big Sky and Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series. Whether for fiction or nonfiction, Tricia’s writing style is vivid and heartwarming, allowing readers to take home more than engaging stories, but also messages that inspire faith and hope. Her goal is to write stories that matter. 

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

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Beyond the Gray Mountains and a $10 Amazon gift card!

Beyond the Gray Mountains JustRead Giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 27, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 6, 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 JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


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