Title: Secrets of the Sonnets Author: Samantha Hastings Publisher: Covenant Communications Release Date: January 2nd, 2023 Genre: Historical Romance
Miranda Hatch is a scholar, and at the advanced age of twenty-six, she is undoubtedly a spinster. Her single-minded ambition leads her not to seek a husband but to find the lost manuscripts of William Shakespeare. So when she discovers a connection between the Bard and the local dashing marquess, she pens a letter requesting access to papers that might secure her academic triumph.
Lord Robert Hamilton is drowning in debt and must turn things around or risk losing his ancestral home. With the weight of the world on his shoulders, he has little time to bother with a letter from an M. Hatch requesting access to ancestral papers―until he realizes there may be some financial merit in granting the request. To his great surprise, M. Hatch turns out to be none other than the lovely Miss Miranda. The pair soon embarks on the trail of a centuries-old mystery, drawn together not only by their shared goal but by their growing attraction. However, someone else is seeking the priceless papers, and they will not hesitate to remove anyone in the way of glory.
Book Review:
An exciting historical romance with witty dialogue and charming characters, Secrets of the Sonnets is such a fun read! This is my first of Ms. Hastings books and it was such an enjoyable read. Miranda Hatch is a scholar, and unfortunately for her mother, at the age of twenty-six, a spinster. Her single-minded ambition to find the lost manuscripts of William Shakespeare has left her with little time to seek a husband. The connection between the Bard and a local marquess leads her to request access for papers that could secure her academic triumph. Lord Robert Hamilton has found himself drowning in debt and at risk of losing his ancestral home. The letter from an M. Hatch requesting papers from his ancestors seems small in comparison, until he realizes the financial merit it could bring. When M. Hatch turns out to be the lovely Miss Hatch, he soon finds himself following her as they seek out the trail of a century-old mystery. Their shared goal and growing attraction draws them together, but someone else is also seeking the papers and they will not hesitate to remove anyone else in their search.
This was such an engaging and interesting story! I really enjoyed the banter especially. Miranda was so fun! I loved her intelligence and confidence. She had some difficulty in her past experience with romance, so she was settling into her “spinster” status. Robert was a surprise to her. I enjoyed reading about them getting to know each other and how they connected. I also really loved her relationship with her parents. Miranda and her father were hilarious! I loved their bonding over Shakespeare and their game! I also really appreciated how even though Miranda and her mother were very different, they still got along and enjoyed one another’s company. Miranda was able to establish herself in a new way throughout the story. She learned about her place and how a new relationship could fit into her life.
Robert was struggling with all that had been dropped on him with the inheritance of his estate. I felt so much for him. From the financial aspect, to his new responsibilities to his family, his POV made me really feel like I understood him and could empathize with him. Watching him fall in love with Miranda was also so cute, I loved the way his friends and sisters teased him too! Their journey was really interesting to follow and I was really engaged in the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to those who enjoy their historical romance with some adventure and history mixed in! This is a clean historical romance with some more exciting scenes of danger, but nothing graphic.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Call of the Sea by Sian Ann Bessey, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
About the Book:
Title: The Call of the Sea Author: Sian Ann Bessey Publisher: Covenant Communications Release Date: November 1st, 2022 Genre: Inspirational Historical/Viking Romance
A Viking Historical Romance
On the eve of her betrothal to a nobleman she’s never met, Rhiannon seeks comfort on the shores of the sea she loves so well. But instead of offering peace to her uneasy heart, the ocean heralds doom with the arrival of dreaded Viking ships. A vicious raid leads to the death of her beloved father and leaves Rhiannon’s life in tatters. Heartbroken, she travels to Ynys Môn, where she takes up residence at the royal court of Owain Gwynedd.
Leif loves voyaging on the open water. As the son of a Viking chief, he’s accustomed to his people’s practice of plundering and looting. But when one of his companions ruthlessly kills an old man in front of the man’s beautiful daughter, Leif is haunted by the memory. Desperate to find forgiveness for the atrocity he allowed to occur, he’s offered a chance at redemption through the kindly teachings of an Irish priest and the unexpected arrival of a royal fugitive. Suddenly thrust into the midst of the Cymry’s political turmoil, Leif is reunited with the dead man’s daughter—Rhiannon. Forced to work side by side to uncover the truth behind the turmoil, they come to discover that love can grow from even the most tragic of beginnings. But with such incompatible backgrounds, surely a future together can never be theirs.
How did you choose the title of the book? The hero and the heroine both have a special connection to the sea. “The Call of the Sea” came to me as a way of expressing the emotions they were each feeling.
What made you want to write in this era? I love including lesser-known historical events in my books. I grew up in Wales and so setting a book based on an actual event that involved the Vikings in my homeland was exciting.
What kind of research did you have to do to write this book? It involved so much research. I did historical research on the Vikings, the Cymry, and the Irish, and specifically on the events that led to the rift between Owain Gwynedd and his brother.
How did you come up with the names of your characters? Many of the names are the actual names of the people who lived through this time in history. The other names are names that would have been used in that era by those of the different nationalities.
What was the hardest part of writing this book? The research, and meshing the real events with fictional characters.
Did you have a character that you related more to? There were aspects of both Rhiannon’s and Lief’s characters that I could relate to. I particularly related to their love of their homelands and their desires to be true to their hearts.
How do you deal with historical accuracy? The 1100s was a messy time in history. Historians do not all agree on the details of certain events and much remains unknown. Whenever possible, I read multiple sources to learn about specific events and everyday life. It was fascinating to learn more about this era.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sian Ann Bessey was born in Cambridge, England, but grew up on the island of Anglesey off the coast of North Wales. She left her homeland to attend university in the U.S. and earned a bachelor’s degree in communications with a minor in English.
She began her writing career as a student, publishing several magazine articles while still in college. Since then she has published historical romance and romantic suspense novels, along with a variety of children’s books. She is a USA Today best selling author, a Foreward Reviews Book of the Year finalist, and a Whitney Award finalist.
Although Sian doesn’t have the opportunity to speak Welsh very often anymore, she can still wrap her tongue around, “Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.” She loves to travel and experience other cultures, but when she’s home, her favorite activities are spending time with her family, cooking, and reading.
Connect with Sian by visiting sianannbessey.comto follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a signed copy of The Call of the Sea, $25 Amazon Gift Card, swag bundle (including stickers, bookmark, button, cross necklace), virtual book club kit, and ebook of The Heart of the Rebellion.
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 31, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 7, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Welcome to the Blog Tour for The Christmas Switch by Zoey Marie Jackson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: The Christmas Switch Author: Zoey Marie Jackson Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired Release Date: October 25th, 2022 Genre: Contemporary Inspirational Romance
Keeping this secret gets complicated
with the family she wished for right next door.
Swapping places with her identical twin over the holidays sounds easy enough to Chanel Houston. But playing the role is trickier than expected when it comes to maintaining frosty relations with her sister’s neighbor and nemesis—especially since he has an adorable little girl and a rowdy puppy. Ryder Frost’s supposed to be grumpy and rude…so why does Chanel find the single dad so irresistible?
Book ideas for myself and probably for many others come as a result of a ‘what if-then situation that we think about and could be a result of blending things that we love or have experienced. In this case, it was a blend of concepts and things that I like to craft the idea for The Christmas Switch.
Being a twin myself, I absolutely love reading about twins, and I have always tried to incorporate twins in my stories. For my first book for Love Inspired, I wrote about a set of five-year-old matchmaking twins. I knew I wanted to do the same again but I wanted to add a little intrigue, put a twist on it. That’s when the idea came to have these twins switch places. This is understandable in the younger years so I had to think on the concept of what would cause adult twins to switch places.
Fortunately, I was working with a great editor for the line who helped me formulate the reason for the switch. Adult twins might switch places if one was in danger. Next, a book trope that is almost always a guaranteed read for me is the neighbor-next-door. So, I put the hero next door. To further add to the fun, one of the most enjoyable tropes for readers is the enemies-to-lovers.
That’s when the light bulb went off and the concept materialized. What if I had twins who switched places and that twin falls in love with the neighbor next door whom her sister dislikes. The editor loved that idea so I began working on the characters and crafting their story. Because of the timeline of when the book would be written and delivered, I was asked if I could make it a Christmas story. If you blend all these, you have The Christmas Switch.
Finally, while writing this, I was and still am going through a tough personal experience. God ministered to me while writing and I then shared that through my story. I hope it entertains and blesses at the same time!
Book Review:
I am a sucker for Christmas romances! And right now the weather’s getting a little colder, so I can start to dream of Christmas. And this was just an adorable book with all the Christmas magic.
Chanel’s life just got a lot more complicated. When her twin sister begs her to switch places, she agrees even though her hometown is filled with too many painful memories. But what happens when her sister’s annoying neighbor turns out to be a single dad with an adorable little girl? Chanel’s heart is getting attached with Ryder and his daughter Gabby even though their whole foundation is a lie.
Okay, I realized that this synopsis sounds super dramatic, but this book was actually pretty low stress. And Chanel is switching with her sister, Cara, because Cara is involved in an FBI investigation. Can I just say that explanation made me sigh in relief! I feel like lying in a relationship is a very bad move, so I loved that Chanel actually had a reasonable explanation. It made me love this story a little bit more!
Chanel was going through a lot, and she had a ton of past trauma she needed to work through. It was sweet to watch her with Ryder and Gabby, and they both helped her work through her painful past. I loved how she was with Gabby. And it was refreshing to have a more gentle female protagonist. I think a lot of female protagonists now are sassy, quick witted warrior queens, and I love those characters. But it’s refreshing to have a different kind of heroine.
Ryder was a sweetheart. Honestly, it was so cute to watch him with Gabby, and he was trying so hard to be a good dad. He also had a lot of past pain to work through, and it was cool to see him and Chanel help each other. They were both a little broken, and they helped bind each other up.
This was low stress, sweet read. I sometimes had a hard time really getting into it, but it was still really cute! The ending was a bit fast paced which was surprising because the romance was definitely a slow burn. However, I think the slow burn romance really worked for these characters because they were both more cautious in nature.
I would totally recommend this clean, Christian read to anyone who loves a Christmas romance!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Zoey Marie Jackson loves writing sweet romances. She is almost never without a book and reads across genres. Originally from Jamaica, West Indies, she has earned degrees from New York University, SUNY at Stony Brook, Teachers College Columbia University and Argosy University and has been an educator for over 20 years. Zoey loves interacting with her readers.
Connect with Zoey by visiting zoeymariejackson.comto follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card.
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 25, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 1, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Elite Guardians Collection by Lynette Eason, Kate Angelo, Sami A. Abrams, and Kelly Underwood, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOKS:
Dive into the exciting ignition to the Elite Guardians Collection.
Title: Driving Force Series: Elite Guardians Collection #1 Author: Lynette Eason and Kate Angelo Publisher: Sunrise Publishing Release Date: March 22, 2022 Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
He’s the last client she wants to protect…
Elite Guardians bodyguard/former sniper CHRISTINA SHERMAN has protected uncooperative clients before—but this time, well her client is bossy, headstrong and occasionally eats off the floor. Yes, he’s a highly trained military working dog, but certainly her skills could be put to better use, right?
Not according to former Special Forces Air Commando GREY PARKER. He needs her help to protect his dog while he undergoes an experimental surgery that could restore his ability to walk. He just needs someone to keep his canine partner safe. Most of all, Grey wants back on his feet so he can track down a deranged scientist known as The Scavenger who unleashed a nerve agent that left Grey sidelined in a wheelchair.
When an attempt is made on Grey’s life, and dead bodies begin piling up—with evidence the same toxin is responsible—suddenly Christina is tasked with keeping both dog and soldier alive…and with them, the secrets that could stop a terrorist attack.
But this time, even Christina might be in over her head.
Another edge-of-your-seat Elite Guardians thriller!
Title: Impending Strike Series: Elite Guardians Collection #2 Author: Lynette Eason and Sami A. Abrams Publisher: Sunrise Publishing Release Date: June 28th, 2022 Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
Protecting him just might cost her everything…
Elite Guardian Charlie Lee knows that there is no future with the woman he loves—fellow Guardian Lizzie Tremaine. And, he gets it—as a single mom, Lizzie has to protect her daughter. But more than anything, he wants the chance to prove himself.
Then, the unthinkable happens—while working undercover, Charlie is seriously injured…and his memory of the past four years is lost. Could it be the fresh start that he didn’t realize he longed for?
Despite a friendship that’s turned flirtatious at times, Lizzie Tremaine has held Charlie at arms’ length. She’s lost all the men she’s ever loved, and is unwilling to risk her heart again. Still, she’s glad to keep an eye on him—as his bodyguard—and while she’s at it, help him put the pieces of his past together, including discovering who attacked him, and why.
But Charlie seems to have forgotten their agreed-upon professional distance—and suddenly, all the rules are off the table. She’s seeing a side of Charlie she could possibly let into her heart. Problem is, the closer he gets to uncovering his memories, the closer he gets to trouble.
It’s her heart…or his life. What will protecting Charlie cost her?
Book three of the riveting, high-octane world of the Elite Guardians reboot!
Title: Defending Honor Series: Elite Guardians Collection #3 Author: Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood Publisher: Sunrise Publishers Release Date: October 4th, 2022 Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
She’ll have to pretend to be his wife to save his life…but what will it cost her heart?
Laila Rabbinowitz is all business. Tough and stoic, she was the perfect Mossad agent…until a terrible betrayal led to her worst nightmare. Being a bodyguard with the Elite Guardians allows her to keep her heart safe—she’ll never let anyone close enough to betray her again. And she’s certainly not going to trust anyone who doesn’t earn it.
Billionaire and former playboy Preston Whittaker walked away from his famous family after a terrible event, but then his father and brother are killed in a suspicious boating accident. Since he’s next in line to helm the family business, now someone wants him dead. Preston needs someone by his side 24/7, and the only solution is a fake marriage.
In order to keep him safe, Laila will have to convince everyone that she and Preston are in love. She’s used to putting her life on the line for a client. But what will this case cost her heart?
We are excited to share a guest post from Kate Angelo the author of Driving Force. 🙂
As a genre, romantic suspense lends itself to a complex story with exciting plot twists and deep character development I find captivating. It’s one of my favorite genres to read and write because I’m fascinated how deeply wounded characters set aside their differences and work together under extreme pressure to bring down a villain. When writing romantic suspense, I explore ways my character’s past affects how they approach the external plot. Will she run into danger, or bury her head and hide? Will he take the lead, or will he step back and allow the heroine to guide them? Motivation mingled with the life experiences and personality of the character will dictate their response and it’s a challenge to write. But by the end, two imperfect people become enlightened and discover the internal obstacles holding them back from their greatest desires which leads us to their happily ever after—and that perfect kiss!
Besides digging into the characters, romantic suspense adds a level of tension you may not find in other thriller and suspense novels. Two imperfect people juggling life and their own hindrances is one thing but throw in the need to survive or save lives and now we’re really cranking up the pressure. Personally, I love reading books with smart villains whose motivation is something greater than evil for the sake of evil. Add some bleeding edge technology or scientific research and I’m all in!
Recently, I wrote a romantic suspense novel with a phytologist heroine. If you’re unsure what a phytologist is, you’re not alone. After all, how many times have you found yourself discussing algae with others? Oddly enough, I have! While drafting the novel, I went to lunch with a group of friends and met a scientist who is a botanist, psychologist, and phytologist. I’ll admit, for the first time in my life I was excited to discuss algae! I was able to share some new research in an area he was passionate about and chat for hours about the live saving properties of this new type of algae.
Bringing the reader along for an investigation is another element of romantic suspense I love. Even if I know who the villain is, I’m intrigued by the motivation behind the evil and learning the secrets they keep. I want a villain with a wound so deep it drives them to hurt others. It sounds terrible, but I suppose it’s because I like a hint of psychological thriller in my suspense novels.
In the end, I believe I chose to write romantic suspense because I like layering in complexity and digging deep to deliver a story that keeps you on your toes, not only because lives are at risk, but because the reader is in suspense over whether two flawed characters can overcome their issues and find their happily ever after. Oh…and because I’m a huge nerd and I get to delve deep into researching psychology, phytology, biochemical engineering, and all the other sciences!
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of Life Flight and the Danger Never Sleeps, Blue Justice, Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, and Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, among others. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and has a master’s degree in education from Converse College. Eason lives in South Carolina with her husband and two children.
Connect with Lynette by visitinglynetteeason.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Kate Angelo is an author, minister, and public speaker from Southwest Missouri who works alongside her husband strengthening and encouraging marriages and families through their ministry. As the mother of five mostly grown children, she is fluent in both sarcasm and eye rolls-subjects she never intentionally taught while homeschooling. With her chihuahua taking up half of her desk space, she writes suspenseful stories of imperfect people who encounter hope and healing through Jesus. Kate is a tech enthusiast, coffee lover, productivity guru, accomplished knitter, avid boater, prayer warrior, and known klutz.
Connect with Kate by visitingkateangelo.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Sami A. Abrams grew up hating to read. It wasn’t until her 30s that she found authors who captured her attention. Now, most evenings you can find her engrossed in a romantic suspense novel. In her opinion, a crime plus a little romance is the recipe for a great story. Sami lives in Northern California, but she will always be a Kansas girl at heart. She has a love of sports, family, and travel. However, a cabin at Lake Tahoe writing her next story is definitely at the top of her list.
Connect with Sami by visitingsamiaabrams.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
Kelly Underwood‘s favorite things are reading, writing, and drinking coffee. She was born in New Hampshire, but don’t ask her about snow, because she’s been a Florida girl since she was twelve. She writes book reviews for her blog bestinsuspense.com and is an active member of the Central Florida chapter of the American Christian Fiction Writers. She’s a sucker for a good suspense novel, the kind you have to read cover-to-cover until the mystery is solved and the bad guys are in handcuffs. If you’re looking for her, she’s probably on her back patio with a Kindle in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. Visit her at kellyunderwoodauthor.com
Connect with Kelly by visitingkellyunderwoodauthor.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a paperback set of all three Elite Guardians Collection novels, plus an Elite Guardians T-shirt!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 3, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 10, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for The Forever Farmhouseby Lee Tobin McClain, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
About the Book:
Title: The Forever Farmhouse Series: Hometown Brothers #1 Author: Lee Tobin McClain Publisher: HQN Books Release Date: September 6th, 2022 Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance
A Chesapeake island homecoming—and a life-changing discovery
When Ryan Hastings first came to Teaberry Island, he was a troubled teen on his last chance. He’s returning as a renowned scientist, checking in on his widowed foster mother. But one thing hasn’t changed—Ryan’s feelings for the girl next door whom he loved…and left. Mellie Anderson has a son now, and a good life that Ryan believes he’s still too damaged to share. But he knows he can help young Alfie, who’s getting picked on at his new school.
Mellie is grateful her gifted son is getting extra support, and torn about where it’s coming from. Ryan has no idea he’s Alfie’s father. No matter how valid her reasons were, could Ryan ever understand why she didn’t tell him? But in this close-knit community, friendship and forgiveness are always near at hand, and forever love might be waiting just next door.
I’m a huge fan of small town stories. I think they’re adorable, and I love the community aspect of them. And this is a sweet small town second chance story. It was more intense than I was expecting, but it was still really cute!
I loved Ryan! He was such a sweetheart, and I felt so bad for him as you learned more about his past. He was a foster kid who had an abusive stepfather. McClain doesn’t give a lot of details, but he was beaten often and shoved into dark spaces for hours upon end. Even though he has a huge heart, he thinks he’s emotionally damaged. He believes he can’t do relationships, yet Mellie and Alfie make him want to try.
Mellie was struggling, and she didn’t know what to do. She wanted to protect her son, but she also wanted to protect herself. She didn’t want to get hurt again. Mellie was definitely a caretaker and a sweet character. I felt like she was understandable, so I didn’t end up resenting her for not telling Ryan about Alfie.
Alfie was so much fun! I love books with kids in them, but I feel like generally they’re a lot younger. Alfie is ten and incredibly smart, so he added a different flavor to the book. It was sweet to watch him bond with Ryan. He also adored Betty, Ryan’s foster mom. I wasn’t sure how I felt about Betty honestly. I understood her grief, but there were many times when it felt like she was acting like a 20 year old.
I think this is a cute romance about the importance of second chances. It was a bit more drama filled than I was expecting, but it was still really good! There is one moment where Alfie flips off his mom, but otherwise this is a clean read. I would recommend it for fans of romantic dramas 🙂
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lee Tobin McClain is the New York Times bestselling author of more than thirty novels. A professor-turned-writer, she finds inspiration in her beautiful and brilliant daughter, her goofy goldendoodle, and her aptly named cat, Trouble.
Connect with Lee by visiting leetobinmcclain.comto follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a print copy of The Forever Farmhouse, a cute tabletop farmhouse decor piece, and a $25 Amazon gift card!
Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 6, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 13, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Title: Breaming Beauty Author: Anneka R Walker Publisher: Covenant Communications Release Date: July 11th, 2022 Genre: Regency Romance
Once upon a dream, two cursed people fell in love . . .
Tansy White doesn’t want to end up alone like her three aunts who raised her, but when she is betrayed by her would-be betrothed, she fears she might never change her fate. At her aunts’ suggestion, she seizes the chance to visit Rose Cottage, the country home of her late mother. For years, dreams of the cottage have haunted Tansy, and she is convinced it holds the answer to her hidden past. But after getting caught in a terrible storm, she meets a man who is just as determined as she is to learn all her secrets.
Marcus Taylor, brother to the Duke of Westmorland, is also troubled by vivid dreams. On a sleepless night, as a tempest rages outside his brother’s estate, he makes a discovery far more mysterious than any dream: a young woman, cold as ice, lies unconscious in the library, and he is sure she is the key to solving his problems. When she wakes, what begins as a shared quest for information turns into an unexpected friendship. As they piece together the fragments of their pasts, they discover a tangled web of lies, and their feelings for each other become just as entwined. But is their love as strong as their dreams . . . or their fate?
Book Review:
Wow! This book was just stunning and full of twists and turns! I am in awe. I have to admit that it took me a bit to get into the book but once I really got into it, I was hooked. The Dreaming Beauty is a sequel to Anneka R Walker’s book, The Masked Baron. The Dreaming Beauty is a regency book inspired by Sleeping Beauty
Tansy was an interesting character. I am honestly not quite sure how I feel about her. She was stubborn, but she was also looking for love. She was searching for the answers to her dreams and trying to find herself. Tansy grew a lot in this book. She learned to stand up for herself and also that happy endings could happen.
Marcus was lovely. I really liked him in this book and I enjoyed reading about him. He worked hard to be a good man and help his brother. I loved how Marcus cared for the people under him and around him. But Marcus was also still learning how to let people in and how to fight for what he believed in. There were also secrets of his pasts that would come back to haunt him.
Marcus and Tansy were cute together. They were able to help each other be the best. They each had their own issues to deal with, but it was sweet to read about them connecting. However, they had to fight for each other because there were a lot of obstacles and secrets standing in their way.
The plot was really interesting and engaging. It started off slower but as I kept on reading, I was soon drawn in. I was amazed by everything that was going on and on the edge of myseat to find out what was going to happen. I also really enjoyed Marcus’ brother, Simon. He was a fun addition to the story, I hope that he gets his own book.
The Dreaming Beauty was a really fun book! I would definitely recommend it! The Dreaming Beauty is a clean regency romance
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
Title: An Unfamiliar Duke Series: Georgian Gentlemen #4 Author: Sian Ann Bessey Publisher: Covenant Communications Release Date: May 16th, 2022 Genre: Historical Romance
At eleven years of age, Rosalind Ainsworth was convinced that Sebastian Lumley, the future Duke of Kelbrook, was the most odious young man she’d ever met. And ten years later, after having had no contact with the nobleman in the intervening time, her opinion of him has not changed. Unfortunately, neither has the marriage contract their fathers signed soon after her birth.
As Rosalind’s twenty-first birthday and the appointed wedding day approaches, Sebastian makes a rare appearance in London. His first meeting with Rosalind since childhood goes less than perfectly, but Sebastian has a compelling reason for honoring their marriage contract—a reason outlined in a document kept behind his workshop’s locked door.
After a quick wedding, the new couple relocates to Finley Park, where their acquaintanceship slowly blossoms into affection. But when Sebastian’s secretive work threatens their fledgling relationship and Rosalind’s life is placed in jeopardy, Sebastian finds himself forced to choose between the man he has pledged to help and the woman he has come to love.
Book Review:
One of my most anticipated reads of 2022 and it did not disappoint! An Unfamiliar Duke is the fourth book in Sian Ann Bessey’s Georgian Gentlemen series. This book was simply amazing! It is actually set before the first three books but it was so fun to read!
Rosalind Ainsworth was such a fun character. I loved her little quirks but also her kindness. Rosalind was an easy character to read about. I felt for her as she tried to navigate her new life. She tried her best to be positive and look for the good. It was definitely interesting to read about Rosalind and fun to get to know her. She was in A Noble Smuggler for a bit but not a whole lot. I adored Rosalind and loved reading her story
Sebastian Lumley, was the future Duke of Kelbrook, and he didn’t know what to do with a wife. Sebastian was also a wonderful character. He was trying his best to be a good husband, but he honestly didn’t know what he was doing. I really liked Sebatian. It was sweet to read about him caring for Rosalind. He didn’t quite like being in large groups of people, but he cared for his staff and for Rosalind.
I really enjoyed the romance between Sebastian and Rosalind. I liked how they both worked through their marriage. The story was easy to read and engaging. The plot was interesting and I wanted to see what would happen next.
I loved An Unfamiliar Duke, it was a lovely addition to the series. I would totally recommend it! An Unfamiliar Duke is a clean historical romance, it can be read standalone but it is part of a series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
Genres: Christian Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction, War Fiction
When rumors reach Vienna that an attack by the Ottoman army is imminent, Wilhelm von Schor, one of the emperor’s courtiers, prepares to evacuate his family—including his sister, Katja. But Katja’s reluctance to leave the city and the people she loves so well grows the farther the family carriage gets from her childhood home. When she learns that another brother, Xavier, is returning to Vienna with his musketeers, she decides to remain behind and face the shadow of war.
Katja soon reunites with Xavier and also with Toby, a dear friend from childhood. As Katja and Toby renew their friendship, an element of attraction builds on the comradery of their youth, and they quickly realize they have found something worth fighting for: love. But all too soon, the Ottomans encircle the city, blanketing its inhabitants in fear. Katja, Toby, and Xavier must each fulfill their new roles if they are to survive. In the overcrowded hospitals, below ground in the countermines, and on the ramparts defending the city walls, the three must fight for love, family, faith, and the survival of their city and everyone inside.
Book Trailer:
Book Review:
Wow! This was a stunning book. This book started off a bit slower for me but I knew that it could happen. My brain takes a while to process things so it took me a little while to read, but it was a great book! Before the Fortress Falls is by A.L. Sowards. The characters were so engaging and the story was beautiful. It was fun to read from different perspectives and I think it really made the story interesting.
Katja was a strong character who was trying to do what she thought was best. Although the Ottoman army was coming, she chose to stay in Vienna. I thought that Katja was an interesting character, she felt so real. Life was hard, they were in the midst of a siege and yet she did not give up. However I liked how there were still times when she was afraid or when she felt overwhelmed, but how she still pressed on and looked to God.
Toby was also a wonderful character, his life had not been easy but he worked hard. I liked his strength and his willingness to help serve his home city. Although he was afraid, he still wanted to protect his home. He was human though and there were times when he got discouraged. However though it all he still worked hard and he even encouraged Katja when she got down.
Toby and Katja had a sweet romance. They had been old friends, and it was sweet to read about them. I liked how their romance was a slow burn, it was definitely cute to read about them interacting and helping each other. They had their troubles and an invasion to fight off, but they worked together.
Xavier and Wilhelm were some of the other perspectives that you got to see. I really liked reading from both of their perspectives. They had a few different views on life, but they both wanted to save their home city. Although they fought and disagreed, they were still family. I really liked the family feel of this book. Katja, Wilhelm, and Xavier all had different views on life and ideas, but they still cared for each other even when things got hard.
The action was very exciting in this book and it was definitely fascinating to read about. I felt as if I learned a lot from the battle scenes and from what the soldiers did to try and prepare for battle. It was really engaging. There are some more gruesome wounds and deaths mentioned but it fits the book and the scene.
Before the Fortress Falls is a wonderful book and I would definitely recommend it! Before the Fortress Falls is a historical romance book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
About the Author:
A. L. Sowards is the author of multiple historical fiction novels, with settings spanning the globe from the fourteenth to twentieth centuries. Her stories have earned a Whitney Award, several Whitney Finalists positions, and a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal. She enjoys hiking and swimming, usually manages to keep up with the laundry, and loves it when someone else cooks dinner. She currently lives in the beautiful state of Alaska with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing library.
Nine months ago, Amaliya Marcell’s world was rocked when she nearly lost her parents in a devastating accident. In that moment, everything changed, and it was with no small amount of determination that the former ballerina rebuilt her life into something wonderful alongside the man she loves, her pairs ice-skating partner, Tyler.
Since he was a child, Tyler Linden has dreamed of Olympic gold. And with Amaliya by his side, he’s confident that his goal is finally within reach. The pair is on track to compete in the Winter Games in Leningrad, but the path to gold turns out to be rougher than they expected. A painful injury on the ice shakes Amaliya’s confidence, and it will take every ounce of willpower to keep working toward the competition of her life. But when the discovery of a family secret connects her to the Soviet Union, the truth of her history forges within Amaliya a renewed determination to make her Olympic dreams a reality.
Book Review:
This was so good! I didn’t want to put it down. Dreams of Gold is the second book in Traci Hunter Abramson’s series, Dream’s Edge. This book was a continuation of the first book and it was really good! At first I wasn’t sure how I would feel about it because I generally read series that contain standalone books but I loved Dreams of Gold!
Amaliya and Tyler were working towards competing in the Olympics and winning gold, but there were a lot of obstacles that stood in their way. The path to gold had a lot of twists and turns. A painful injury and situations in life shake their confidence and it will take all of their willpower to keep on going. However when Amaliya learns of her connection to the Soviet Union, she is given a drive to make their Olympic dreams come true.
I really enjoyed reading more about Amaliya and Tyler. It was fun because I had liked them from the first book and it was cool to read about them connecting and growing. They had a lot to overcome and it was sweet to read about them coming together. It was interesting to read the obstacles they faced and learn to overcome them. They faced injuries but they also had to learn to work through hard relationships. I liked how real Amlaiya and Tyler felt, they were just two people working towards their dreams. It was definitely cute to read about them interacting with each other, reading about them falling more and more in love.
The storyline was so interesting, Abramson keeps you on the edge of your seat. I didn’t know how the story would turn out, but I was definitely interested. Although this book is more of a slice of life book, there were still some twists and turns. I don’t want to say anything else, but this is definitely a must read book. I also loved seeing characters from the first book, and getting to see their Coach more. I enjoyed the family aspects of these characters and how they came together to help each other throughout the trials they were facing.
Dreams of Gold was an amazing book! I could not recommend it more. I loved Dreams of Gold but you do need to read these books in order because it really adds to the story. I can’t wait to read the next book, there are still some questions to be answered. Dreams of Gold is a clean romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.
Welcome to the Blog Blitz for Their Yuletide Healing by Mindy Obenhaus, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Their Yuletide Healing
Series: Bliss, Texas
Author: Mindy Obenhaus
Publisher: Love Inspired
Release Date: November 30, 2021
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
As her plans unravel, can she give her children what they truly need?
Foster mom Rae Girard’s determined to make her children’s first Christmas with her the best they’ve ever had—and she’s shocked when the town scrooge, attorney Cole Heinsohn, offers to pitch in. Rae’s young charges have melted Cole’s heart, and he wants them to experience the special day he never had. But when disaster strikes, an imperfect holiday might bring them something better: a family…
Award-winning author Mindy Obenhaus lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups and countless cattle. She’s passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her in the kitchen, spending time with her grandchildren or roaming the ranch in search of inspiration. She’d love to connect with you via her website, mindyobenhaus.com, or on Facebook.
(1) winner will receive a copy of all four Bliss, Texas series books and a $20 Amazon gift card.
Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight December 2, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 9, 2021. 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. (Winners outside the US will receive trilogy ebooks and $20 Amazon gift card) Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
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Books and Everyday Life 