Thursday, December 12, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY : Kit and Elizabeth by Karen Tuft


ABOUT THE BOOK

Lady Elizabeth Spaulding's world has fallen apart. Despite living her entire life to please her demanding parents, the Duke and Duchess of Marwood, she has little to show for it. After Elizabeth's second failed betrothal, her father's debts and appalling acts of retaliation force him to flee the country, consigning Elizabeth and her bitter mother to a life of poverty and exile. But Elizabeth's fortunes change one day when an elderly acquaintance makes her an offer she can't refuse. Lady Walmsley, widowed and childless, is in need of a lady's companion—and who better than the lovely Lady Elizabeth?

Determined to rescue Elizabeth from her dreary life in the country, Lady Walmsley secures the help of Kit, the dashing Earl of Cantwell, in her quest. But the young woman they find is a ghost of the charming girl they once knew. Taken in by Lady Walmsley, and with Kit's enthusiastic encouragement, Elizabeth finds herself pushed further and further from her empty solitude as she discovers the joy of truly living. Now, for the first time in her life, she must decide for herself who she is and if she deserves to be loved.

REVIEW

I very much enjoyed reading this book, just as I've enjoyed reading Tuft's other Regency's. This follow-up to The Earl's Betrothal focuses on the Earl of Cantwell and Lady Elizabeth Spaulding who were secondary characters in the earlier book.  The beginning of this book does go back and retell some of the events from the first book so the reader has a context for the situation that poor Lady Elizabeth finds herself in.  I found myself sympathizing with Elizabeth or Lizzie as the Earl likes to call her, from the beginning.  A naturally kind person, Elizabeth has spent her entire life being groomed to to marry for her parents' benefit.  When things don't work out the way her parents' demand, they heap an awful lot of emotional abuse on her.  So it's hardly surprising that when Kit (Earl of Cantwell) runs into her again, she's not in a good place.

But thanks to the efforts of Lady Walmsley and Kit, Elizabeth starts to develop into her own person, a person of character and courage.  But it takes everything she has to learn to see herself as more than her parents' pawn.  And when she finds herself back in the place where so many bad memories were created, can she find the courage to create new ones?  Elizabeth is a sweet, sympathetic character, while Kit is the charming rascal that made me smile.  He proves to be a nice foil for Elizabeth as she's first starting to learn who she is.  I enjoyed reading this book and found myself reading quickly in order to find out what would happen next.  Tuft does an excellent job of writing a charming romance that has some depth to it which for me makes for a more satisfying read.

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Thursday, November 7, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: The Heart of the Rebellion by Sian Ann Bessey


ABOUT THE BOOK

September 1400
 
King Richard II of England is dead. And after three years in His Majesty's service, Rhys ap Tudor and his brother Gwilym are finally free to return to their ancestral home in North Wales. Their long-anticipated homecoming is overshadowed, however, by the harsh changes they encounter in their once peaceful land. The new king, Henry IV, rules with an iron fist, and the country is ripe for rebellion. Instantly thrust into the forefront of the conflict, the proud Tudor brothers enter the fight for their freedom.

Lady Catrin Buckley is alert to the unrest swirling around her. As the daughter of an English father and a Welsh mother, she know too well the trouble her lineage poses. Her own battle, however, is one of the heart: she is to be married to a man she neither knows nor loves. Then an unexpected encounter with the enigmatic Rhys ap Tudor changes everything. Soon, Catrin finds herself swept into a rebellion that could not only change history but also rewrite her own future.

REVIEW

I've read a lot of historical romance novels over the years.  Many of them from the Regency era, but from other time periods also.  It's always refreshing to come across one from a time period and location that I'm not as familiar with.  Bessey's love and knowledge of Wales shine through in this tale of love and rebellion.  Rhys ap Tudor and Lady Catrin Buckley make for an interesting pair especially as their growing romance comes at an awkward time for both of them.  Lady Catrin has just become betrothed to a man twice her age who she has never met and knows little about.  Rhys has just returned home and is having to make choices about his future.  Neither planned on becoming involved in a revolt.  Yet they both do get involved and their growing feelings for each other complicate matters mightily.  Bessey does a fine job telling her story of love and loss, courage and conviction, and passion and power. Even more intriguing is the fact that some of the events in the story actually happened, making me wonder about the real people the story is based on.  A well-told story that I very much enjoyed reading.

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Tuesday, October 15, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Mistaken Reality by Traci Hunter Abramson


ABOUT THE BOOK

Hadley Baker can't believe her boyfriend finally invited her on a fancy hotel dinner date only to break up with her in public. Even more unbelievable is the moment FBI Agent JD Byers finds her crying in the women's restroom and demands she evacuate. Seconds after JD ushers Hadley outside, an explosion shatters the building. Could her life be any more disastrous?

JD didn't anticipate seeing Hadley, the beautiful schoolteacher, again after he saved her from the hotel attack. But soon after he ex-boyfriend became a lead suspect in the hotel bombing case, the man turned up dead—and now it seems that Hadley herself is a target. Determined to keep her safe, JD shelters Hadley as they join forces to put together the pieces of the perplexing case. When they discover the horrifying truth behind her ex-boyfriend's nefarious work, Hadley realizes her life is far from the only one being threatened. Countless others are in danger, and she and JD might hold the key to saving them.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND HER BOOKS SEE HERE.

REVIEW

Like many of her previous books, Abramson starts this one with a bang.  Literally.  Hadley Baker flees to the restroom after her boyfriend abruptly breaks up with her.  FBI Agent JD Byers finds her there moments before a bomb goes off.  Afterwards, Agent Byers is forced to inform Hadley that the man she thought she knew may have been involved with the bombing.  When men associated with the bombing ransack Hadley's house looking for something, she goes into hiding with Agent Byers.  What neither of them expects is to develop feelings for the other.  Meanwhile, they continue to work on the case along with Byers's partner and others (including the guardians and Saint Squad from Abramson's other books) work to bring down the man and organization behind the bombing.  As with her previous works, Abramson writes a compelling narrative with an interesting story line and sympathetic characters.  And it's always fun to hear more about characters met in previous books.  If you enjoy clean romantic suspense I can easily recommend this new book by a favorite author.

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Thursday, September 19, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Deborah, Prophetess of God by H.B. Moore


ABOUT THE BOOK

After years of mistreatment, the Israelites prepare to defend themselves against the oppressive Canaanites. Readying for war not only takes secret military training but also an Israelite leader who is willing to both stand against generations of oppressions and follow God.

Deborah, a young Israelite woman, lives a quiet and isolated life with her father and brothers. As a shepherdess in the hills near her home, she knows well the perils of her work. But when faced with incredible danger, she witnesses a series of remarkable events that preserve her life. The hand of the Lord is apparent, and it is clear that hers will be no ordinary life.

REVIEW

One of the things that I enjoy about Moore's biblical-based novels is how the characters come to life.  Deborah really feels like a real person in this novel.  Her family and friends, neighbors and enemies all play an important role in Deborah's life.  But most of all it's her faith in God that changes everything.  Faith in God leads to some pretty incredible answered prayers not only for her, but for her people as well.  This novel conveys a pretty incredible story from the bible with the author filling in some of the missing pieces from her research and imagination.  It makes for a very enjoyable read.

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Thursday, September 12, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: All Hearts Come Home for Christmas by Sarah M. Eden, Anita Stansfield, Esther Hatch, & Joanna Barker


ABOUT THE BOOK

Christmas at Falstone Castle by Sarah M. Eden - The Dowager Duchess of Kielder eagerly anticipates spending Christmas with her son and his family. Though their relationship has been strained, the duchess is determined to heal the chasm. Even with the help of the widowed local vicar, her plan will take a Christmas miracle. But during this magical season, anything is possible . . . even two second chances for love.

The Heart of Christmas by Anita Stansfield - When a chance meeting brings together a gentle seamstress and a widowed banker, each lonely soul finds a first hint of hope. As their lives become entwined, it will take Christmas spirit to guide a broken family to love and healing.

'Tis the Season to Be Daring by Esther Hatch - Elizabeth Davenport has had quite enough of the London season. Determined to evade a parade of unsuitable suitors, she seeks help from the one gentleman who has no regard for Society's rules. All of Society knows Lord Hawthorne is not interested in marriage, yet he cannot deny Miss Davenport's unique charm. And as the Christmas season works its magic, their charade begins to feel less like playacting and more like love.

The Christmas Dress by Joanna Barker - Seamstress Nell Addington is thrilled when her childhood friend Jacob Hammond commissions a dress for his sister. But when Nell realizes her feelings for Jacob run far deeper than friendship, an unexpected snowstorm—and some holiday cheer—may convince them both that love is worth fighting for.

AUTHOR INFORMATION

Esther Hatch : https://estherhatch.com/

REVIEW

I have a special fondness for Christmas stories.  I eagerly gather new ones every year.  Combining Christmas with the Regency Era and I was truly excited to read this book.  And I was truly delighted by each of the four stories.  I smiled throughout Christmas at Falstone Castle as I read about familiar and well-loved characters.  I yearned for the characters in The Heart of Christmas to find happiness amidst their loneliness and sadness.  I laughed at the antics of Elizabeth and Lord Hawthorne in 'Tis the Season to Be Daring.  And I enjoyed the exchanges between Jacob and Nell in The Christmas Dress.  If you enjoy characters old and new, laughter and tenderness, and some great banter all wrapped up with a bow in the Christmas season, I can highly recommend this collection of stories.

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Monday, September 2, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Entangled by Stephanie Black, Clair M. Poulson, Gregg Luke & Traci Hunter Abramson


ABOUT THE BOOK

Mystery and desperation collide in Entangled, a compilation of novellas that twist, turn, and terrify, penned by four popular suspense authors: Traci Hunter Abramson, Clair M. Poulson, Gregg Luke, and Stephanie Black.
  • A woman on the run from a man who is always one step ahead
  • A mother who will stop at nothing to find her missing daughter
  • A wife determined to discover the source of the illness attacking her husband
  • A newlywed caught in a web of murder, unsure of whom to trust
Featuring a chilling cast of villains, these stories tell the tale of strong heroines forced to make perilous snap decisions in their quest to outwit evil. With an abundance of intrigue and danger, each masterful mystery is sure to leave you breathless.

REVIEW

One of the things I love about novellas is how quickly they can be read.  They get to the heart of the plot quickly and they move rapidly all the way through.  The problem that can happen with a collection like this though is that you may not like all the stories equally.  I am pleased to say though that that didn't happen here, at least not for me.  I enjoyed all four stories and they were all intriguing and very different.  One story revolves around a woman who is trying to get her oldest son back from her drug dealing ex-husband, who also seems to want her dead.  But with the help of a kind FBI agent, she hopes to see Henry again.  The second story revolves around a woman whose daughter is kidnapped and her detective boyfriend must help her find the girl.  The problem is that corrupt cops seem to be involved.  The third story is a medical mystery with Taryn working with the doctors to try to figure out what is wrong with her husband.  And the fourth story revolves around a woman, her shop, antagonistic neighbors, and a murder.  Each story is well-written and pulled me in completely despite how short each story was.  I will admit that one story broke my heart a bit, but life, even in stories doesn't always have a happy ending.  I would recommend that you read these when you have some time because the book is hard to put down.  A well-done collection of stories perfect for those who enjoy a good suspense.

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Thursday, August 8, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: A Lady's Maid by Jen Geigle Johnson


ABOUT THE BOOK

Molly O’Malley, lady’s maid to the progressive Lady Amanda Halloway, is determined to continue the life’s work of her lost love, killed in the Peterloo Massacre. But when her efforts and a trip to Lady Halloway’s charitable orphanage culminate in her own abduction, Molly’s eyes are opened to the horrifying crimes transpiring in the city’s slums. Despite the risks, she broadens her mission and is drawn ever closer to the peril all around them.

Thomas Flaherty, a footman in the Halloway household, has been with Molly from the beginning, but he fears she will never trust him with her heart. Even though her cause and happiness are of foremost importance to him, his loyal patience is tested by the fears that keep her at a distance. But with their safety on the line, Thomas is resolved to sacrifice everything for the woman he loves.

Risking their lives and their love, Molly and Thomas and a team of nobles on their side will stop at nothing to empower the powerless, no matter the personal cost.

REVIEW

A Lady's Maid isn't just a regency romance.  It's a historical tale revolving around the fight for suffrage, the right to vote, a fight for those whose voices were so often ignored or deliberately set aside.  A problem that remains with us today.  I found it fascinating though to get a glimpse at the time and place.  I like to think that though Lady Amanda, Molly, Thomas, and the others are fictional, that there were those like them, who worked hard in support of their causes.  I loved reading about their efforts to help the orphans.  Not only does Johnson do an excellent job in creating her setting, but she has also created a compelling plot with several subplots, as well as some fabulous characters.

In her previous book, A Nobleman's Daughter, Lady Amanda and Lord Halloway's story and romance is told.  That story revolves around the fight for working people's rights but resulted in a massacre.  This new book tells the story of Molly, Lady Amanda's maid, and takes place ten years after the previous book ended.  Despite the time having passed, Molly still grieves the loss of her love, Charlie.  Still, she is attracted to Thomas, a footman in the Halloway's household, and a partner and friend also involved in the Halloway's work for the poor and for suffrage.  In addition to Molly and Thomas's story, which gives the reader a glimpse at the work of the working class, Johnson tells the tale of Lady Chloe and Lord Annesley. 

Lady Chloe gets involved in Lady Amanda's work but struggles with shyness as well as her feelings for Lord Annesley.  Lord Annesley is a childhood friend of Lady Chloe and the Halloways, who is also part of their cause.  Unfortunately, because of his father's poor financial decisions, he soon finds himself caught between a rock and a hard place, when he is blackmailed into spying on the suffrage movement by the prime minister.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the way all the different characters interacted through the various plotlines.  If you enjoy regency romances or well-told historical fiction, I highly recommend this one.

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Thursday, July 25, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Secrets Never Die by Laurie Lewis


ABOUT THE BOOK

Tallie Brown's life has never made any sense. Raised in isolation by her mother, Julia, Tallie was dragged suddenly and without explanation from one third-world outpost to another until life normalized seven years ago when Julia took a position on a mountaintop in the Pacific northwest. But when Julia unexpectedly dies, Tallie uncovers clues suggesting that Julia had a secret life.

Journalistic phenom Jackson James is still recovering from the devastating mistake that flatlined his promising career. Now he's paying the price, working as the editor of a syrupy community rag in a posh D.C. suburb. But when the very man who destroyed him drops a tantalizing lead about a potential D.C. scandal, the reporter sees his chance for redemption and sets off to chase the story.

Jackson's investigation leads him to Cutler's Ridge, a dying Virginia coal town, and directly into the path of the mysterious and beautiful Tallie. As these two mistrustful loners follow their leads, their stories begin to intertwine until they reach an alarming conclusion - something terrible happened in Cutler's Ridge. As they doggedly pursue the story, the town's cold reception spirals into threats and danger, proving that there are those who will stop at nothing to keep the past hidden forever - because secrets never die. 

REVIEW

Coming soon!  Haven't finished it yet. 

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Thursday, July 18, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: The Emerald Heart of Courtenay by Anita Stansfield


ABOUT THE BOOK

The moment her father takes his final breath, Sarah Courtenay becomes the sole heir of her family's sprawling castle—and something far more unexpected. For on his deathbed, Lord Courtenay left his daughter a cryptic message: a dark curse will fall upon the house should Sarah fail to obtain and protect a priceless treasure. Sarah's astonishment upon discovering the carefully hidden sword sparkling with jewels is nothing compared to the shock she feels when she learns the true nature of her father's death: he was poisoned. And now Sarah herself might possess something worth killing for. Desperate to avoid her father's fate, Sarah flees the only home she's ever known, taking with her a loyal maid and a hired bodyguard who will stop at nothing to protect the beautiful woman in his care. From the safety of a remote farm, Sarah finds a renewed measure of peace and hope for the future. But the sinister weapon that glitters amid her belongings in that small farmhouse beckons a shadowy enemy, one who will not be deterred from taking everything from Sarah—including her life.

REVIEW

When Sarah's father dies from a sudden illness, she has no idea that he's been murdered.  When she learns that he was poisoned and that it might be related to a family heirloom that her father just barely revealed to her, she's not sure what to do.  When some of those closest to her insist on hiring a bodyguard for her, in case she to is a target, she's not happy about it.  But another tragedy makes it clear that she is indeed at risk.  She doesn't expect to fall in love with her new bodyguard or feel so at home in her hiding spot.  As she faces the unknown she must decide what she really wants and what's she's willing to give up to get it.  I quite enjoyed this new book by Anita Stansfield.  The build-up and suspense is superbly done with the tension building from the very first page.  I especially enjoyed Sarah as a character, she's rather an unusual lady in that she's not proud or greedy, her best friend is her personal maid.  And she has no trouble accepting her growing feelings for her bodyguard, even though he's from a different class.  The author also does an excellent job disguising the culprit.  The guilty party isn't really obvious, which leads Sarah and Darius back to Castle Courtenay in search of answers when hiding doesn't get them any closer to answers.  The love story between the two is sweet and gentle, but Darius has his past to deal with and Sarah of course must deal with the challenges of her present.  If you enjoy historical suspense with great details and a sweet romance, I can easily recommend this one.

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Wednesday, July 10, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: The Redgrave Murders by A.L. Sowards


ABOUT THE BOOK

Loss is inevitable, as Evie Hampton knows all too well. But despite losing her mother to can er and her older brother to a war, she knows she's one of the lucky ones. After all, she still has her father, a distinguished professor of medieval history. And she has Gary Redhawk, the man she loves despite the emotional scars he carries from the Second World War—and despite her father's opposition to their relationship.

When Evie's car suddenly careens off the road, she chalks it up to poor maintenance or sheer bad luck making another appearance in her life. Little does she know a host of hardships is just beginning—the car was her father's, and the brake lines were deliberately cut. Someone wants them dead—but why? All fingers point to Gary, a man with a troubled past and no solid alibi, but Evie is unwilling to believe he's involved. Determined to uncover the truth, she begins to piece together a startling picture of deception and vice. But as she closes in on the truth, it is clear that someone is determined to silence her—and the next attempt on her life may be a deadly success.

REVIEW

A.L. Sowards knows how to write a suspense novel full of historical detail.  In this one, Evie Hampton's life takes an awful turn when someone murders her father and frames her boyfriend for it.  Her efforts to clear her boyfriend, Gary Redhawk, lead her in directions she could never have imagined.  Unfortunately for her, the murderer doesn't seem to be finished and she's clearly his next target.  I enjoyed reading this both for the mystery aspects, but also for the historical setting.  In addition to the murders, her relationship with Gary is uncertain as he struggles with serious PTSD and trauma from his childhood.  As a Seneca Indian, he was forced to attend an Indian Boarding School as a child, where abuse was rampant.  But Evie loves him and wants to help, she just doesn't know how.  So unlike many of Sowards previous books, this one doesn't take place in the middle of war, but it deals with the aftereffects of war and the emotional damage it causes.  The inclusion of Gary's Indian school experiences adds additional historical context.  Although reading about it and Gary's PTSD was difficult, it certainly made him an empathetic character.  One of the things I especially enjoy about Sowards books is the depth of her characters.  They feel like real people dealing with real problems in a flawed but determined way. A great book for readers who enjoy romantic suspense, but also those who enjoy a book with a solid historical setting.

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Thursday, June 20, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Wrong Place Wrong Time by E. James Harrison


ABOUT THE BOOK

The first idyllic hours of Greg and Marena Walker’s Caribbean vacation are filled with turquoise water, sand as soft and white as powdered sugar, and gentle ocean breezes. But all too soon the Walkers find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Now they are running for their lives . . .

Scott Vaughn has made a lucrative career of secretly transporting illegal materials. Pay him enough, and he’ll move whatever you want from anywhere to anywhere. And though he has never met the Walkers, he needs them dead. His future depends on making certain they don’t have one..

Wayne Hovey desperately wants Scott Vaughn—alive is best; dead is acceptable. And luck has handed him the perfect bait: Greg and Marena Walker..

In a heart-pounding game of cat and mouse, each player is driven to succeed, never realizing they are all pawns in something much larger—and more dangerous—than any of them knows.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I grew up on the west side of Salt Lake City in a pretty typical family.  My dad worked most of his life in a factory, my mom was a homemaker and my three sisters were...sisters!  The two older ones were always bossing me around and I always had to give in to my younger sister.  (They may not remember it exactly like that, but it's true--really!)  A mom and three sisters means a lot of estrogen in a house, so during my preteen years my dad and I would escape whenever we could to the quiet of the mountains and deserts of Utah pursuing my dad's favorite hobby--rockhounding. Saturday's meant trapsing over desolate ground and blasting old cans full of holes with a .22 rifle.     

My early teen years were filled with pimples and the clumsy awkwardness of getting to know girls and for the most part, those are years to be forgotten.  It was during my high school years that two great things happened in my life.  First, I discovered airplanes and boats--two things I thoroughly enjoy to this day.  But second, and by far the most important and best thing that's every happened to me, was I met my wife, Debbie. (That's a picture of her over on the right.)  I met her in a geometry class. The teacher sat us alphabetically and I ended up in the desk behind her.  Had there still been ink wells in the desks, I'm sure I would have dipped the tips of her long dark hair in the ink in an effort to attract her attention.  With no ink I had to satisfy myself with untying the bows made from ribbons that she used to tie back her hair.  I succeeded in getting her attention, and ultimately convincing her to marry me, but not for several more years.


After high school there was a year of college (University of Utah) and then two years as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Returning from my missionary responsibilities I shocked everyone--including myself--by being accepted to Brigham Young University.  And that's when I first discovered writing.  I had no idea what I wanted to be when I "grew up," but the fiancée of one of Debbie's roommates was majoring in public relations.  I had no idea what that was, but it sounded fun so from then on I told everyone I was a public relations major.  I thought it would be a bunch of back slapping and socializing. Little did I know that English and writing are at the heart of public relations.  And the rest, as they say, is history.  I ultimately got an Associate degree in public relations and a Bachelor degree in creative writing.

REVIEW

E. James Harrison has written a compelling suspense novel.  The focus is on the horrible situation that Greg and Marena find themselves in rather than a romance which made the suspense the most compelling part of the story.  The prologue pulled me into the story immediately and the book didn't let go anywhere along the way.  It was interesting to see the different perspectives as the story went on, including the bad guys and their motivations and actions and how they collided with the 'good guys' including Greg and Marena who came to the Domincan Republic for vacation and ended up in the 'wrong place' at the 'wrong time' and ended up facing death.  I especially enjoyed the details about Greg and Marena's vacation and snorkeling trip before things went wrong.  An enjoyable mystery full of suspense and sympathetic as well as evil characters, Wrong Place Wrong Time is a great choice for those who enjoy a good suspense story without all the romance.

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Thursday, June 13, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Love in Disguise by Anneka R. Walker


ABOUT THE BOOK

Marion Watt is set to embark on her first London Season, and her parents have spared no expense to help her secure a suitable husband. Unlike most of the social-climbing women in her position, Marion has no desire to marry hastily or for anything less than love. But when she learns of her mother's declining health, she knows she must keep an open mind and allow herself to be courted. What she does not anticipate, however, is that the attentions of the insufferable Lord William Everton will be placed squarely on her. He might be the most sought-after bachelor of the Season, but she sees in him nothing but a frivolous cad.

Until William inherits his father's title and seat in parliament, he must rely on his own devices to change the world. Dressing like a ridiculous dandy serves its purposes, but he is certain his newest disguise will help him find a wife to please his parents and further his own agenda. From among the glittering group of debutantes, William finds only one woman who passes his test. Unfortunately, the perfect choice is the only woman in all of London who despises him.

REVIEW

Marion Watt loves to play the pianoforte.  But after a performance in public goes disastrously, she vows never to play in public again.  Since that disaster was caused by none other than Lord William Everton, London's most eligible bachelor, she develops a dislike for him, especially after an insult at a ball.  She's stunned when he seems to develop an interest in her and they start courting.  But initial impressions are hard to get past.  Her feelings do start to shift though as she starts to see the man behind the dandy.  But as things develop between them, things start to go wrong in other ways and it seems their relationship may not survive.  I quite enjoyed reading this story of slow-developing love.  Both Marion and William are likable characters with flaws to be overcome.  And of course, as in real life, things don't run smoothly, especially after their first few unfortunate encounters.  The book has both a sweet romance and some rather amusing misunderstandings along with some serious problems.  Walker has written a very pleasing, delightful tale of growing in love despite all the difficulties that arise.

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Thursday, June 6, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: The Heart of a Vicar by Sarah M. Eden


ABOUT THE BOOK

Young love is all too fleeting, as Harold Jonquil painfully discovered years ago when Sarah Sarvol, the niece of a neighboring landowner, captured his heart. After an idyllic few weeks in the throes of blossoming love, reality intervened. They could have no future. Following their disastrous parting, Harold attempted to push aside thoughts of love and regret, but Sarah has never left his heart. Now, years later, he has achieved his lifelong aspiration of becoming the local vicar. However, the role proves more difficult than he imagined. He feels hollow and uninspired—until the most important person in his past returns, challenging him as no one ever has.

When Sarah’s ailing uncle summons her back to the family estate in England, there is only one person from her past she is reluctant to see again: Harold Jonquil, the only man who has ever claimed her heart. But when she comes face-to-face with her former beau, she hardly recognizes the aloof and dull man before her. She is determined to help Harold rediscover the passion he once felt toward his chosen profession. Soon, despite their exasperation with each other, they cannot deny the stirring of feelings long buried—but is it too late for second chances?

REVIEW

Another fabulous Jonquil book always excites me.  I've thoroughly enjoyed reading about each of the Jonquil brothers as they find romance.  I thoroughly enjoyed this one just as much as all the others.  It was refreshing to get to know Harold as I've gotten to know the other Jonquil brothers.  Harold is rather different than his brothers, and not just because he's a vicar.  He's always been more reserved and serious than his brothers, but he became even more so after Sarah Sarvol, the girl he loved, returned to America.

When Sarah returns, she finds Harold stiff and cold, a result of his brother's incessant teasing and his own uncertainties.  She challenges him by telling him she could be a better vicar.  This leaves Harold wondering if he's a complete failure.  But as he starts to warm up in the face of Sarah's warmth and caring, he is faced with deciding where his future lies and if he can make Sarah a part of it. 

Once again, Sarah Eden has written an engaging story full of heart and humor.  She makes her characters feel so real that I wish I could really know the Jonquils.  The period details are spot on, often frustratingly so, especially in this book as Sarah suffers very poor treatment at the hands of her uncle, despite her brother's efforts to protect her.  I always appreciate the care Eden takes in making her characters real.  I especially enjoy reading about characters I met in other books.  It's great to find out what's happened to them.  All in all, another delightful book in what is probably my all time favorite regency series ever.

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Thursday, May 30, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Living the Parables: Applying Christ's Teachings to Our Lives by Hank Smith with Kathryn Jenkins


ABOUT THE BOOK

As the world’s greatest teacher, Jesus Christ used His skills as a storyteller to teach and inspire His followers. The parables of Christ contain a wealth of guidance, but the deeper meaning of His words can sometimes be difficult to decipher. Now, best-selling authors Hank Smith and Kathryn Jenkins—known and loved for their ability to approach gospel topics in a clear, light, and understandable way—take a careful look at the finer points of the Savior’s stories. They uncover the profound spiritual lessons hidden within and illustrate practical and accessible application for our day. In Living the Parables: Applying Christ’s Teachings to Our Lives, readers are presented with commentary from generations of Church leaders and religious scholars, as well as modern-day interpretations of the underlying significance of each account. This volume will inspire followers of Christ to draw on the power of His Atonement by embracing a deeper understanding of His parables.

REVIEW

Coming as soon as school is over!

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Thursday, May 16, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Finding Anne de Bourgh by Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen


ABOUT THE BOOK

As heiress of Rosings Park, Anne de Bourgh's heath is utmost importance to her mother, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Thus, following the shock of a recent fire at Rosings Park, the young woman is spirited away to Brighton to take the cure. While her domineering mother is bent on healing her daughter's sickly constitution to secure her a suitable match, Anne herself is far more concerned with sketching the flora and fauna of the lovely sea town. It is in pursuit of artistic inspiration among the flowers that Anne becomes acquainted with Mr. Owen Talbot, a charming man with whom Anne feels an immediate connection, notwithstanding their differing stations.

But despite their growing esteem for one another, the couple faces an insurmountable problem: Lady Catherine has set her sights on a rich, well-connected man for her daughter, and Mr. Talbot is simply too common. With their love in jeopardy, the couple soon faces far graver problems. There has been a murder in Brighton, and Anne is innocently drawn into an amateur investigation that ultimately traces its roots to her own family. With a frightening foreshadowing regarding the de Bourghs, Anne begins to question whom she can truly trust.

REVIEW

Coming as soon as I've finished with the school year.

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Thursday, May 9, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Charlotte's Promise by Jennifer Moore


ABOUT THE BOOK

One year ago Charlotte Bower’s life was ripped apart when Creek Indians attacked, killed her parents, and separated her from her young brother—now, she will stop at nothing to find him. After a year of captivity, she has finally made her escape. Her search will begin in New Orleans, where captives were taken after the raid. But how to reach a city hundreds of miles away? As she watches men boarding a waiting ship, Charlotte formulates a bold plan: if it’s men they need for the ship’s crew, it’s a man they’ll get. Taking on her childhood nickname, Charlie, it is all too easy to gain passage on the New Orleans-bound vessel. Easy, that is, until Charlie is caught . . .

From the moment he sets eyes on the new deckhand, Captain Alden Thatcher knows one thing for certain: Charlie Bower is no man. But for reasons of his own, he keeps her secret. As their journey progresses, however, the voyage is increasingly ill-fated. With danger ever present, Charlie and the captain find themselves relying on one another in ways they’d never imagined. As they draw closer to her goal, Charlotte is faced with the most perilous adventure of all—an adventure that may risk her heart.

REVIEW

It's always exciting when a new book by a favorite author comes out, so I was thrilled to see this new book by Jennifer Moore.  As with her other books, I enjoyed it immensely.  Her characters are delightful as always and the setting exciting and interesting.  And she does a really nice job with the historical setting.  I was especially impressed with her use of sailing jargon.  I didn't always understand it since I have no sailing experience but I appreciated her use of it.  The romance is as always sweet and amusing as Alden and Charlie unknowingly fall in love.  But their circumstances and past experiences get in the way creating difficulties for the couple.  I enjoyed this very much and if you too like historical fiction I highly recommend it.

GIVEAWAY

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Thursday, May 2, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Undercover Honeymoon by Kari Iroz


ABOUT THE BOOK

Wedding bells are finally ringing for Jacklyn “Jack” Wyatt and her FBI-agent fiancé, Damon Wade. After their adventurous beginning, the happy couple finds the relative calm leading up to their big day a huge relief. Unfortunately, it seems the peace and quiet were too good to last. As they embark on their honeymoon, a weeklong cruise, Jack can’t shake the feeling that something is off with her new husband. When she stumbles upon a secret plot—one in which her husband is a key player—she realizes this getaway will be anything but smooth sailing. When she delves into the shady happenings aboard the ship, Jack realizes Damon’s involvement is just the tip of the iceberg—she has become an unwitting player in a deadly conspiracy, and in such close quarters, there is no escape. Now, Jack has no choice but to work with her new husband to unravel the truth before their happily ever after—and their lives—are ended all too soon.

REVIEW

Jack and Damon are back in this action-packed third book.  Jack and Damon are finally getting married, but as one might expect who has read about these two in the previous two books, things do not go smoothly either before the wedding or after.  Once the wedding is over and the two have left on their honeymoon things will calm down.  But from the first moment of the honeymoon, Jack senses that something isn't right, that their is something that Damon isn't telling her.  And it turns out that she is correct.  Once again she finds herself smack dab in the middle of an FBI investigation, but this time its her husband who put her there, which does not make her happy.  But Jack can't help wanting to help solve the case and it puts her in danger.  As the stakes get higher, Jack and Damon have to get past their marital frustrations or they may find their lives are forfeit.  As in the other books in the series, Jack is quite amusing and her relationship with Damon is sweet and realistic. 

GIVEAWAY

 
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Thursday, April 25, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: When Life Gets You Down, RISE UP! by Kacey McCallister


ABOUT THE BOOK

It was a crisp winter day when six-year-old Kacey McCallister lost both of his legs, forever altering the course of his life. This unthinkable trial could have broken him, but from that day forward he chose to rise above his circumstances and learn to live without limits.

For those struggling to find hope in the depths of physical, spiritual, or emotional trials, this incredible story of one man's unbreakable courage will inspire and motivate readers to not only survive but thrive amidst life's challenges.

A true testament to the power of the human spirit, When Life Gets You Down, Rise Up! demonstrates the refining power that can be found in the midst of overwhelming odds, a power available to all who will take hold of it and rise.

REVIEW

While I haven't finished the book yet, I've really enjoyed the parts I have read.  Kacey's story is an interesting one and his positive attitude makes it a pleasant read.  I even found myself laughing at his stubbornness and determination to succeed. I also appreciated the fact that his parents refused to let him become dependent.  The creative ways he found to do things that most people do without thinking about it was fascinating to read about.

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Thursday, April 18, 2019

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Plague by Gregg Luke


ABOUT THE BOOK

Centuries ago, the Black Death shadowed the world, claiming the lives of tens of millions. Now the world is on the brink of another scourge—and this time, it will be an extinction-level event. . . .

Professor Mitch Pine knows all too well the history of epidemics, so the startling new information he's discovered has him racing to the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta. Mitch has uncovered a startling pattern: dramatic environmental changes always occurred prior to devastating outbreaks, and current climate change may be such a catalyst. But before his plane lands, Mitch's journey takes a terrifying turn. He is intercepted by a woman who represents a dangerous faction whose interest in Mitch's research opposes his mission to save lives. To secure Mitch's cooperation, his research assistant is being held hostage. With so many lives on the line, Mitch embarks on a turbulent trip around the world, uncovering pieces of the puzzle until he ultimately holds the key to prevent—or precipitate—global devastation. Unless he can find a way to stop the lunatics behind his abduction, a plaque the likes of which the world has never known will be unleashed.

REVIEW

Gregg Luke always does a nice job with his medical thrillers.  And this one is no different.  While the premise does require some suspension of disbelief, in an author's note at the end he explains the science on which it's based, making it not quite so unbelievable.  In any case, I find the mixture of real science with fiction to be an intriguing one.  Mitch makes for a very sympathetic characters as he is pulled into a quest through blackmail and extortion in the very first chapter.  His determination to use his research to save people stands in stark contrast to the motives of his extortioner and handler.  Although the twist involving his handler makes for some interesting reading.  If you enjoy medical thrillers I can recommend this one. 

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