Review: In Her Sights by Karen Witemeyer

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

He's sworn off love, but she has his heart in her sights and doesn't intend to miss.

Stained by his wastrel father's legacy, Jackson Spivey lives on the fringes of society. Townsfolk tolerate him since he keeps the local hotel supplied with fresh game, but mothers coach their daughters to avoid him. After tasting consistent rejection, Jackson spurns all attempts at courtship. The only things he can count on are his guns and his God.

Tessa James has been secretly in love with Jackson for ages, but trying to gain his favor only pushes him further away. When she learns Annie Oakley is traveling through Texas, Tessa seeks lessons from the famed markswoman. If Jackson's life revolves around guns, taking up shooting might help her engage his interest. Too bad she can't hit the broad side of a barn.

When Annie loans Tessa a custom pistol, however, things begin to change. The lore behind the mysterious weapon fosters hope that Tessa might finally hit the target of Jackson's heart. But when danger threatens, she might be forced to use the pistol for something other than finding love.

My Review

This story is classic Witemeyer! It contained all the elements I love in her stories- emotional connection, character growth, romance, subtle humor, faith, and action. I felt bad for Tessa that she's been so obvious about her affection for Jackson with no results, and with the whole town watching. Jackson's self-worth has taken so many hits over the years that he doesn't even consider the possibility. I admired Tessa's ingenuity and determination, not just to catch a beau but to reach out to Jackson as a friend. I enjoyed the historical tidbits surrounding Annie Oakley that I didn't know before, and gained a greater appreciation for the real life heroine. The danger that comes to town brings the climax of the novella and the author skillfully showed the true characters of Jackson and Gemma as they worked together and discovered what a perfect match they are. A sweet and entertaining novella that I plan to read again in the future!

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 multi-author Pink Pistol Sisterhood series . . .

Double Review: The Brick House Cafe and The Broken Hearts Bakery by Carla Laureano

 

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

 

The Brick House Cafe e-book can be downloaded at the author's website

(at the time of this post)

Synopsis

**Welcome to Haven Ridge, Colorado—a fading town that might just have a little magic left...**

Travel writer Mallory Adams accepted her latest assignment on the mountain towns of southern Colorado in the hopes it would offer an escape from all the recent failures in her life—quitting her history graduate studies, losing her apartment, being dumped by her boyfriend for another woman. So when a series of mishaps lands her in the dying town of Haven Ridge, it feels more like a punishment than an opportunity.

Thomas Rivas returned home after a personal tragedy to find Haven Ridge much diminished. But when a plucky and beautiful writer blows into his family’s cafe—something that his mystic-minded Granny Pearl claims is no accident—it seems like the chance to put the town back on the map. Soon Thomas makes it his mission to make Mallory fall in love with Haven Ridge and its fascinating, forgotten past—he just doesn’t expect to lose his own heart in the bargain.

With its quirky cast of characters, sweet love-after-loss romance, and small-town mystery, *The Brick House Cafe* reminds us that it’s never too late to believe in the magic of second chances.

My Review

This prequel novella in the Haven Ridge series was a perfect introduction to the small Colorado town, through the eyes of the stranded Mallory. She's at a crossroads in her life, and her optimism combined with a curious mind for history appreciated the story of the women who founded the town. Thomas is standoffish at first, but when we get his perspective we discover why. I enjoyed their time together and the way Mallory helps Thomas open up to a relationship in his future. Mallory is more confused because of the options before her career-wise, but Haven Ridge's magic works it's charm and all Mallory has to do is be open to new possibilities.

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.

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Sometimes the town that broke your heart is the only place that can heal you.

When Gemma left her hometown of Haven Ridge, Colorado, she swore she’d never return. And she’s kept that promise, leaving old shadows behind and building her reputation as one of LA’s preeminent family law attorneys. But when her lifelong best friend begs Gemma to come stay with her teen stepdaughter while she’s on a business trip, she doesn’t have the heart to refuse. She’ll simply keep a low profile, do her honorary aunt duties for Taylor, and be gone before anyone notices.

But Haven Ridge seems to have a mind of its own, and before she knows it, Gemma finds herself caught up with new friends and old rivalries. When Taylor is targeted by teen bullies, Gemma does the only thing she knows how to do: ply her honorary niece with baked goods and words of affirmation. Soon her temporary lodgings are ground zero for teenage girls seeking sugar and consolation for shockingly adult problems—which the girls soon dub the Broken Hearts Bakery.

Complicating matters is an unexpected reunion with Gemma’s high school sweetheart, Stephen, who is determined to change her mind about him, the town, and the nature of love itself. Because as it turns out, her niece isn’t the only one nursing a broken heart.

My Review

The story of Gemma's past trauma is alluded to in the prequel, and the town matriarch implies that the negative reactions of the townspeople began the decline of Haven Ridge. This is very much a second chance story- for both the town and the romantic relationship of Gemma and Stephen, with betrayal at the center of the heartbreak. Stephen has a lot of growing up to do- even as an adult, and comes to some important realizations about himself. Gemma is a pretty strong character, but has hidden vulnerabilities that are forced to the surface as she is immersed in the town and Stephen's life. There's plenty of angst to go around, but the themes of redemption and forgiveness brought a sense of hope. Some of the recollections from their teenage years had content that made me uncomfortable- underage behavior that is not healthy/moral but was not portrayed in a negative light. I had anticipated that the location of the bakery would play an important role in the book, but Gemma's home baking for friends and the school were the focus, and even that  seemed to be secondary to the main plot of her hot/cold relationship with Stephen. With the next novel's title having a bookshop, I hope that the town revitalization is more central to the 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.

 

Check out the new cover of the next book in the Haven Ridge series . . . 

Review: The Earl’s Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed by Esther Hatch

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

If there is one woman Samson Rutherford, Earl of Riverton, can’t abide, it is his meddling sister. He has spent his whole life being a pawn in her plans and tricks, but when one of her schemes leaves him dressed in women’s clothing, he has finally had enough. He cannot beat her at her games, or even say no to her, his only option to save his sanity and pride is to run away--and fortunately, his solicitor knows just the place…

Catherine Wallace wasn’t born to be a governess, but with her family’s fall from grace, she has become one. A good one. However, when the chance arises to stay at her uncle’s home so she can care for his horticulture project while he is absent, she jumps at the chance. Leaving her position, she plans to gather her sisters together so they can be a family again--even if it is only for a little while.

But the last thing Catherine expected to find upon her arrival was her childhood friend. Samson has sequestered himself at the cottage and claims to have been invited to watch over her uncle’s business while he is away. But Catherine insists that’s what she’s been asked to do. The quiet retreat is what they both need, but who will get to stay?

Not Samson, because he has never gotten the better of a woman, not since… well, not since Catherine let him kiss her years ago…

Come to think of it, perhaps it is time for Samson to win after all.

My Review

I love rom-coms with depth, but I usually find them in the contemporary genre. Esther Hatch has skillfully applied it to the Regency era with delightful results! I adored the first book and novella, and this second full length novel ranked right up with them. Samson's sisters are driving him crazy, and their latest prank sends him desperately retreating into seclusion. The forced proximity at Catherine's uncle's home gives Samson and her plenty of opportunities to get reacquainted, and learn how their past has affected their present circumstances, influencing the potential for the future. Plenty of banter and amazing chemistry made this a highly entertaining story, but the undercurrent of angst tempered the comedy perfectly, and I enjoyed every minute of reading! It's going on my list of favorite books to re-read, and I hope there will be more added to this 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 the other books in the series A Romance of Rank . . .

Review: A Seat by the Hearth by Amy Clipston

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Priscilla Allgyer, a young single mother, knows she cannot leave the past behind. But can love lead her toward the promise of healing? 

Priscilla Allgyer left her community to escape the expectations of Amish life. Now, years later, she is forced to return—along with her six-year-old son—to the place she thought she’d left behind forever. Though once estranged from her family, Priscilla is welcomed by her mother, but her father is cold and strict. He allows Priscilla to stay with them provided she dresses plainly, confesses her sins, and agrees to marry within the community. Once again, she feels suffocated, trapped, and alone. 

As Priscilla reluctantly completes her shunning, she catches the eye of Mark Riehl, a farmer with a playboy reputation. Wary of Mark, Priscilla barely gives him the time of day—while Mark, unused to being ignored by the women of Bird-in-Hand, won’t give up the pursuit of her friendship. Priscilla desperately needs a friend in Mark, even if she doesn’t realize it—and after Priscilla’s father and the bishop catch her and Mark in a compromising situation, their relationship becomes more complicated than ever. 

As affection quietly grows between them, Priscilla struggles to open her heart and reveal the painful secrets of her past. As Mark works to earn her good faith, can they both learn the hard lessons of love and trust? And can two friends discover a happiness that only God himself could have designed? The third book in the Amish Homestead series, A Seat by the Hearth invites us back to the Lancaster community where friendships are forged and love overcomes all.

My Review

I was drawn into the lives of Priscilla and Mark, two very different people who find themselves in circumstances that spiral out of control. Priscilla was both desperate and courageous to return to her Amish home, even with a verbally abusive father. She has trust issues with men because of that dysfunctional relationship, and also the physically abusive relationship she left behind- causing her to mistrust charming men like Mark. Mark is from a wonderful family who have had their share of hardship, and I enjoyed his close relationship with his twin sister Laura. He is the ultimate bachelor, charming the girls but never committing because he considers them just friends. Plenty of drama and angst ensues as he is drawn to Priscilla who rebuffs his every attempt at friendship, while she adjusts to returning home and what that means for her future. Their story is compelling, but I wished for more time when they were actually getting along and not denying their growing affection- which they held onto stubbornly until the bitter end. The interactions with Mark's family and siblings were my favorite parts.

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 Amish Homestead series . . .

Review: A Lady's Wager by Arlem Hawks, Josi S. Kilpack, Sarah M. Eden

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Can a lady wager on love?

The Diamond of Bristol by Arlem Hawks
Lieutenant Derrick Owens has always been on his own and wants to keep it that way, but when he saves a shipmate’s sister from a horrible dance partner, Corah Bradford’s sweet temperament and friendly nature make her hard to resist. Unable to find a suitable husband in Bristol who she can also love, Corah is entangled in a wager to secure Derrick’s company for an evening. Despite their reluctance to let go of their convictions, their easy friendship turns to something more. But with war on the horizon and Corah bound for the marriage mart in London, they both must discover what’s truly important—love or their previous expectations.

Women of a Certain Age by Josi S. Kilpack
Over the years, Colletta Markshire has been the driving force in helping young women make their match during the Season in London. Rachel is her lucky thirteen and Etta has every expectation that she will be a triumph ... except that things are not going to plan. Rachel has not taken to London and is determined to grow an acquaintance with a young man not at all the thing. The young man's father, Wynn Firth, is nearly as distracting as Etta's worries, and in every way she felt sure she would never feel distracted again. When Rachel disappears, Etta has little doubt what’s happened and she and Wynn set out together to find the young couple before word gets out. Hours in a carriage with a handsome man can be even more distracting, however, and Etta finds herself entertaining ideas she never thought to have. Etta gave up on love years ago ... and yet, as Women of a Certain age can attest, it is never too late to change one’s mind and change one’s future.

A Most Unsuitable Suitor by Sarah M. Eden
Drowning in debt, Julian, Lord Wesley spends an evening of shared misery with his closest friend at their club and makes a startling discovery: someone has placed a wager that Lady Charlotte Duchamps will not marry before her 21st birthday, with Julian himself receiving £1000 if she does not. Lady Charlotte suddenly finds herself the subject of a great deal of attention from Lord Wesley, a vague acquaintance with a questionable reputation. With Julian and Charlotte both attempting to solve mysteries and wreak chaos, betting on the possibility of love might just prove the most risky wager of all.

My Review

A captivating addition to the Timeless Romance series! This collection is set in the Georgian era, and each story included some historical details that showed the differences of this time period. They also have a wager built into the plot somehow, but the authors and characters made the stories unique. I was able to connect emotionally to the characters as they navigate society, expectations, and love. I appreciate that the length of each story is longer than a novella, so we get to delve in a bit deeper, but I can also get to the happy ending more quickly than a full length novel, which is a perfect way to relax at the end of a long day! These collections are some of my favorites to re-read for that exact reason.

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.

A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors: Guest Post by Laura Frantz

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors including Lynn Austin, Susie Finkbeiner, Jocelyn Green, Laura Frantz, Kate Breslin, Amanda Barratt, and Joanna Davidson Politano, sponsored by JustRead Publicity Tours!

You are Invited

A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors
September 2, 2023 at 7 p.m. 
Palmer House Hilton Hotel, Chicago

Join us at 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 2, at Chicago’s historic Palmer House Hilton Hotel for a tasteful evening with tea and talk of books, writing, history, and the power of story. Emceed by Chris Jager of Baker Book House, seven novelists will share what inspires them, tales from the research files, what they’ve learned on the journey, and their hope for readers.

Learn More about A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors

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 Guest Post by Author Laura Frantz

 

 

Since I write romance it’s fun to think of an Author-Reader Match via a “dating-style” profile to introduce readers to authors and their books. So here is my ideal reader match…

Writes:
Laura Frantz writes award-winning historical romances with emotional intensity and unexpected twists like her 14th novel, The Rose and the Thistle. Amid the Jacobite uprising of 1715, an English heiress flees to the Scottish lowlands to stay with allies of her powerful family. But while castle walls may protect her from the enemy outside, a whirlwind of intrigue, shifting allegiances, and temptations of the heart lie within.

About:
Young-at-heart Kentucky native seeking readers who love historical romance novels with emotional intensity and authentic detail & who are capable of soulful character connections. Happy endings guaranteed though it may be a rocky road to get there. Must have a passion for Scotland if not Scottish ancestry & the capacity to be charmed by an assortment of endearing characters & picturesque castles, including the ability to scream PLOT TWIST at least 20 times during the novel’s 400-plus pages.

What I’m looking for in my ideal reader match:

*Admires clever, titled heroines who spar with titled, military heroes

*Adores angst

*Dreams of living in a castle

*Loves to travel

*Open to haggis

*Thinks French is sexy

*Loves children, animals, & gardens

*Fascinated by 18th-century fashion, lost languages, & traditions

What to expect if we're compatible:

*Armchair travel to France, England, & Scotland

*Closed door romance with plenty of sizzle

*Depth of historical detail

*Torn between staying up all night reading or slowing down and savoring every word

*Finished the book but still thinking about it

 

"A deeply atmospheric story of faith, love, and sacrifice that is as captivating as it is enthralling."--Sarah E. Ladd, bestselling author of The Cornwall Novels

In 1715, Lady Blythe Hedley's father is declared an enemy of the British crown because of his Jacobite sympathies, forcing her to flee her home in northern England. Secreted to the tower of Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, Blythe quietly awaits the crowning of a new king. But in a house with seven sons and numerous servants, her presence soon becomes known.

No sooner has Everard Hume lost his father, Lord Wedderburn, than Lady Hedley arrives with her maid in tow. He has his own problems--a volatile brother with dangerous political leanings, an estate to manage, and a very young brother in need of comfort and direction. It would be best for everyone if he could send this misfit heiress on her way as soon as possible.

In this whirlwind of intrigue, ambitions, and shifting alliances, Blythe yearns for someone she can trust. But the same forces that draw her and Everard together also threaten to tear them apart.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository |Bookshop.org | Christianbook | BookBub

 

Laura Frantz is a Christy Award winner and the ECPA bestselling author of more than a dozen novels, including The Frontiersman's Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, The Lacemaker, and A Heart Adrift. She is a proud mom of an American soldier and a career firefighter. A direct descendent of George Hume of Wedderburn Castle, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion, Laura lives with her husband in Washington State.

Connect with Laura by visiting laurafrantz.net to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Meet the other Novel-Tea Authors . . .

LYNN AUSTIN, whose titles include Long Way Home, Chasing Shadows, and If I Were You. Connect with her at LynnAustin.org.

AMANDA BARRATT, whose titles include Within These Walls of Sorrow, The White Rose Resists, and My Dearest Dietrich. Connect with her at AmandaBarratt.net.

KATE BRESLIN, whose titles include In Love’s Time, As Dawn Breaks, and Far Side of the Sea. Connect with her at KateBreslin.com.

SUSIE FINKBEINER, whose titles include The All-American, The Nature of Small Birds, and All Manner of Things. Connect with her at SusieFinkbeiner.com.

JOCELYN GREEN, whose titles include The Metropolitan Affair, The Windy City Saga series, and The Mark of the King. Connect with her at JocelynGreen.com.

JOANNA DAVIDSON POLITANO, whose titles include The Lost Melody, A Midnight Dance, and The Love Note. Connect with her at JDPStories.com.

Purchase Tickets to Attend A Novel-Tea Evening with Authors

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a tote bag, one bag of Pride and Peppermint Novel Tea, plus a $20 egift card to BakerBookHouse.com!

 

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 12, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 19, 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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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!