To Love a Prince by Rachel Hauck ~ Celebrate Lit Blog Tour, Review, and Giveaway

 

About the Book

 

Book:  To Love a Prince

Author: Rachel Hauck

Genre:  Royal Romance

Release Date: August 11, 2020

An enchanting new royal romance from NYT bestselling author Rachel Hauck

Daffodil Caron is not a princess, even though she once dreamed of being one. After all, she grew up as a playmate to royal princes, running through the halls of Perrigwynn Palace and dining with the queen. But the day she stumbled upon a royal secret, everything changed.

Flash forward eighteen years, and Daffy’s living a sweet, non-royal life. A skilled art curator for the Royal Trust, she has friends, a flat in the heart of the city, and a handsome, successful fiancée. The last person on her mind is Gus, a prince she once called her best mate.

HRH Prince Augustus is no longer “Prince Pudgy,” as caricaturized by the press, he’s charming and gorgeous, possessing a world-famous smile. But when he’s jilted at the altar by an American heiress as millions of people around the world watched, the spare heir to Lauchtenland’s ancient House of Blue escapes, finding solace on a Florida beach.

A year as a regular bloke allows him to rethink his purpose. He’s half decided his calling is to pour pints at a tiki bar, rather than serving his country and the Family.

Until an accident on the beach with a Frisbee changes his course.

Despite his long hair and beard, Daffy recognizes her prince, and their childhood friendship is renewed. She assures Gus Lauchtenland needs him, giving him the courage to return home.

When Daffy and Gus find themselves on assignment to Hadsby Castle in preparation for his brother’s wedding, their friendship blooms into affection.

But Gus cannot, will not, trust his heart again. Daffy’s engaged. And she also remains a royal family outcast because she knows the Queen’s secret.

When affection grows into love and secrets are exposed, trust is destroyed. Gus must choose which is stronger: the lies of his past or the hope of his future. And Daffy must face every fear to prove she will forever love a prince.

“Another compelling royal story by the master of princely tales!”  Susan May Warren, USA Today bestselling, RITA award-winning novelist

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Author Rachel Hauck is back with a brand new modern fairy tale set in the same universe as her previous creations. 

My heart went out to Daffy who has struggled in love and friendship, she has always played it safe in life, and doesn't like to take risks. I related to her, and admired her courage. Though it was hard to read when bad things just kept happening to her, and I just wanted everything to work out. 

This book operates in the same universe as Once Upon a Prince so there are many familiar name drops and cameos. It is a sweet read, with a lot going on throughout. Gus has had his share of heartaches too, and I could understand why he chose to do the things that he did. I liked the natural friendship between him and Daffy, as they reconnect and get to know each other again. 

Charming and familiar, yet a brand new story great for fans of modern fairy tales. I found it interesting how the author used "angels among us" to bring the story together, though I felt like the faith was less directly addressed than previous books. I like how this book imagines realistically the difficulties of life in the public eye. A sweet read with a courageous heroine, and plenty of royal intrigue!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Rachel Hauck is an award winning, New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author.

Her book The Wedding Dress was named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times Book Reviews. She is a double RITA finalist, and a Christy and Carol Award Winner.

Her book, Once Upon A Prince, first in the Royal Wedding Series, was filmed for an Original Hallmark movie.

Rachel has been awarded the prestigious Career Achievement Award for her body of original work by Romantic Times Book Reviews.

A member of the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers, she teaches workshops and leads worship at the annual conference. She is a past Mentor of The Year.

At home, she’s a wife, writer, worship leader and works out at the gym semi-enthusiastically.

A graduate of Ohio State University (Go Bucks!) with a degree in Journalism, she’s a former sorority girl and a devoted Ohio State football fan. Her bucket list is to stand on the sidelines with Ryan Day.

She lives in sunny central Florida with her husband and ornery cat.

 

More from Rachel

Hello Royal Rockstar Readers!

I’m thrilled to share To Love A Prince with you. So many of you who loved the Royal Wedding Series have asked for more royals so as I noodled over new story ideas, my thoughts drifted toward princes and princesses. What’s more romantic than a royal wedding?

This royal story, the first book in a new series, True Blue Royal, is set in a new fictional country, Lauchtenland, in the North Sea. I’m really squeezing all those oil wells currently occupying that body of water.

The beauty of royal stories is they remind us of who we really are: princes and princesses. There is always a point in the story where the royal character, as well as the commoner, must come to grips with his and her true identity! Who God says we are!

Stories are a powerful reflection of life and it’s fun to insert ourselves into the tale. While fiction employs a lot of hyperbole we can find ourselves on the page somewhere, somehow.

Thanks for going on this little tour with me and To Love A Prince. You are so vital to my story as an author. Thank you!

Yours,

Rachel

Blog Stops

Worthy2Read, September 10

Captive Dreams Windows, September 10

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 10

Genesis 5020, September 10

Novels Corner, September 10

Connect in Fiction, September 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 11

deb’s Book Review, September 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 11

Remembrancy, September 12

Breny and books, September 12

Texas Book-aholic, September 12

Inklings and notions, September 12

For Him and My Family, September 13

Artistic Nobody, September 13 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, September 13

The Book Chic Blog, September 13

Among the Reads, September 14

Soulfully Romantic, September 14

Ashley’s Bookshelf, September 14

Sara Jane Jacobs, September 14

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, September 15

lakesidelivingsite, September 15

All-of-a-kind Mom, September 15

Reflections From My Bookshelves, September 15

Betti Mace, September 16

Where Faith and Books Meet, September 16

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, September 16

Blossoms and Blesssings, September 16

She Lives To Read, September 17

Wishful Endings, September 17

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, September 17

Life of Literature, September 17

Life, Love, Writing, September 17

Book Love, September 18 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Maureen Timerman, September 18

Batya’s Bits, September 18

Labor Not in Vain, September 18

Bigreadersite, September 19

Hallie Reads, September 19

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 19

Splashes of Joy, September 19

Christian Bookaholic, September 20

Musings of A Sassy Bookish Mama, September 20

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, September 20

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 20

Inside the Wong Mind, September 21

By The Book, September 21

Mary Hake, September 21

Godly Book Reviews, September 21

Hebrews 12 Endurance, September 22

Melissa Wardwell’s Back Porch Reads, September 22

Livin’ Lit, September 22

Writing from the Heart Land, September 22

Simple Harvest Reads, September 23 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Mamma Loves Books, September 23

Daysong Reflections, September 23

Black ‘n’ Gold Girl’s Book Spot, September 23

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away a royal gift box of Pampering Princess items that includes bath balms, tea, tiara and other surprises!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10098/to-love-a-prince-celebration-tour-giveaway

Minutes to Die by Susan Sleeman ~ Review

My Review:

An act of terror scheduled to happen on 9/11 sends FBI Agent Kiley Dawson and her team scrambling for clues to bring down the terrorists, while the case brings her face to face with a man that she still hasn't forgiven. 

A suspense that reads more like a mystery, as the RED Team uncover clues pieces by piece to save countless lives before time runs out. I loved the close knit team, their friendship and how they push each other to be their best. There is great tension between the characters, and I like how Mack encourages her to give Evan a chance. 

Evan is a strong Christian man, he wants to do everything he can to be valuable to the mission. I like how he is patient and is willing to step into a potentially awkward situation in order to do his job. 

High stakes read, plot driven, with well crafted characters. I loved how this book shows a different side to things than just dodging bullets, but the analytical leg work behind bringing down threats. Hard to put down, laced with suspense. One of my favorite things was the camaraderie between the team members, and I can't wait to revisit them again soon.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Amish Newcomer by Patrice Lewis ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

After the witness of a murder, Leah Porte, a TV journalist takes refuge among a community of conservative Amish people. 

Leah finds her whole life upturned in but a few moments, she cannot go back to her old life because of the public nature of her job. She is challenged by the simpler ways of the Amish, and intrigued by furniture maker, Isaac Sommers. I admired her ready to help attitude and how she is open to learning and trying new things. 

An enjoyable read, with a wonderful community of people who make Leah feel welcome. Though at times it felt like parts of this book were written for someone who has never read an Amish book before. Isaac is a caring and thoughtful hero. This is a pleasant and heartwarming read for fans of Amish fiction. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Ignite the Sun by Hanna C. Howard ~ Review

My Review: 

In a land of darkness, the truth of one girl's heritage brings hope...and light.

Filled with magical creatures oppressed by a literally dark world, including nymphs, naiads, elves, banshees, this book is a tale of hope and good versus evil, or quite literally dark versus light. 

On her sixteenth birthday, Siria learns a truth that sends her fleeing for her life in search of the truth, along with the only people that she can trust. I liked how this book chose to use magical creatures that aren't featured as much as others are in fantasy, and I wasn't expecting that, so that ending up being intriguing. This book plays a lot with common tropes and themes, like dark versus light (literally), the chosen one, and I can't say that any of these was really done in a wholly unexpected way. I wanted so much to love this book, but I had trouble with the pacing, and thought that there were parts that lagged while they were travelling, but then I felt like the ending was rushed as a result, with pages of undisguised information dumping to explain the world and rules of the magic. 

I loved originality of the sun children and their powers, as well as the use of a plethora of magical beings. This was a quick read, both innovative and in other ways expected. I think that there was a good premise, with a solid theme, but it left me wishing for more layers in some areas.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Love Redeemed by Lisa Jordan ~ Just Read Blog Tour, Review, and Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for A Love Redeemed by Lisa Jordan, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: A Love Redeemed
Author: Lisa Jordan
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: August 25, 2020
Genre: Inspirational Contemporary Romance

Just-for-now could become forever…

They agreed to help each other out. 
No one mentioned falling in love.

Back home after losing her job, Isabella Bradley plans to stay only long enough to save her father’s diner, but she can’t do it alone. Her childhood friend Tucker Holland has the perfect solution—he will renovate the diner if she’ll be a nanny for his twins. But as Isabella and Tucker reconnect, their arrangement begins to feel a lot less temporary…

Review:

Coming home means new beginnings and second chances. 

Bella comes back to her hometown to find her bearings and make a new game plan, when disaster strikes at her family's diner. Her high school best friend and EMT Tucker Holland offers to help her fix up the place if she can help him out with childcare for his twins during his long shifts. Bella slips back into life in her hometown, bt not without a few bumps, I loved how passionate she is about her community and helping others. She is great with Tucker's kids, and I love how she bonds with them quickly, they aren't perfect, which makes them all the more realistic and adorable. 

Tucker is a really responsible guy with a lot of things on his place, he has a great relationship with his family and I loved how he is quick to lend a hand and wants to help others who have gone through what he did. 

Overall, an engaging story of finding home, with amazing characters who are passionate about their hometown and their families. I loved how Tucker and Bella reconnect, and I liked how well developed everything was from the people in the community and backstory to the feel of the town. Compelling, and heartwarming, highly recommend. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heart, home and faith have always been important to Lisa Jordan, so writing stories with those elements come naturally. She is an award-winning author for Love Inspired, writing novels that promise hope & happily ever after. Happily married for nearly thirty years, she and her husband have two grown sons. When she isn't writing, Lisa enjoys family time, good books, crafting with friends and kayaking. Visit her at www.lisajordanbooks.com.

CONNECT WITH LISA: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a S'more Picnic Fun prize package including a canvas picnic tote with a wicker bottom along with s'more fixings and a copy of A Love Redeemed!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway will begin at midnight September 1, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on September 8, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

 

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Almost A Bride by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review: 

Kate Millington has no trouble getting engaged, but can't seem to go through with the wedding. After breaking it off with her latest fiance, she finds herself with no lack  of suitors, but when she comes face to face with a friend from the past, the one man she wants is the one she can't have. 

I was thrilled when I heard that Zeke's story would be coming so shortly after the previous book, and couldn't wait to dive back into the rugged beauty of British Columbia. Zeke is a man working to outrun his skeletons and the shame that he brought his family while working for the mills. He has done well for himself and done well, investing in multiple business ventures. He is passionate about supporting the workers, he isn't perfect, but he does what he can to support his community, and I liked that he was flawed.

Kate is hardworking and compassionate, she doesn't want to hurt anyone. I loved her friend Becca, and how protective she is of Kate. This book has some amazing supporting characters I especially loved Wendell and Mr. Peabody, who are a duo of men not suited for the rough life of gold miners, but are excellent in their own respective fields, and are great friends to Zeke. 

An engaging read, I liked how it explored more about what happened after the gold mines were claimed up and how many people worked hard to make the boom towns a permanent place to reside. Kate and Zeke grow in their faith over the course of the book, learning to trust in God. A highly enjoyable read, with characters who will capture your heart and bring a smile to your face. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Sinner in Mississippi by D. L. Lane ~ Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Book:  The Sinner in Mississippi
Author: D.L. Lane
Genre: Historical Fiction, Inspirational Romance
Release Date: May 1, 2020

Not expecting me to live, the midwife cleaned me up, wrapped me in an old tea towel, and placed me in a knitting basket beside the wood-burning stove. According to Mama, the storm raged until morning, but I never made one sound. So, hours later, when they peeked in at me, they were surprised to see me sucking my thumb, staring up at them with eyes the color of bluebells.

Mama told me, that’s when she cried.

See, she hadn’t shed a single tear during the harsh pain of giving birth or out of fear of the horrible storm taking the house and her with it, but she sobbed when she saw me. To her, it would have been better for all of us if I’d passed on in the night, carried off on the wings of angels, never to suffer the evils of this world. And sometimes, I wondered if she hadn’t been right.

–Mississippi Singleton

My Review:

I didn't know what to expect going into this book, I've never read this author before, and her books are quite new to me. But this beautiful historical romance blew me away and got me out of a reading slump that had me dreading picking up new books.

Though set in America during the middle of the 1930's, it does not rely heavily on the time period or current events for the plot, and is more specifically a Christian romance, which in some ways reminded me of books by Lori Wick. Mississippi Singleton is a character that sticks with you, spunky and outspoken, she isn't afraid to say things like they are, and has a hunger for learning. Her charm is that she doesn't have a cultivated or calculated charm, she's just Mississippi. She comes from a hardscrabble, abusive background, she doesn't expect kindness, and has a world weariness about her.

Thayer Drayton King is a tycoon of sorts, the wealthiest man around, a genuine knight in shining armor. He is a man of character and integrity, willing to stand up for those who can't stand for themselves, he is also fair and willing to extend grace. He has presence and a natural leadership.

This is an engaging read, there was not a point in this book where I felt that it ever lagged in pace, in fact I didn't want to put it down. My heart went out to Mississippi and I admired her strength, she was someone that I could cheer for all the way through. While some aspects of this story were unrealistic by some standards, I think that it worked in this story and I didn't mind as I knew that this leaned more romance. One of my favorite things about this book was that it would start setting up in a way that in other books I just find infuriating, but this book swerved and proved me wrong, and it made me admire Thayer even more. This was a highly enjoyable read, and I'm so glad that I gave it a chance!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

D.L. Lane is a wife, musician, a graduate of Liberty University, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. In 2010 she walked away from the day job and started a writing career using a pen name. As far as the world was concerned, she was very successful writing romances, however, success aside, she knew she wasn’t on the right path but stubbornly kept on going for nine years. Although a Christian and raised in a religious home, D.L went her own way, leaving God out of her choices until He said, “Enough.”
Weary and seeking guidance, she finally listened and left the course she was on as an established novelist to take a new path—putting God first in her life where He always should have been.

More from D.L.

I love writing, and I love to challenge myself as an author, and so I thought, why not write a fictional historical piece. This was a test for me since there are many things to research when writing during a different era, especially when I wasn’t around at that time. But I prayed about it, grabbed my laptop, and started writing about a poor, uneducated girl who grew up in Louisiana during the Great Depression in a motherless home with a group of reprobate males.
Not unlike the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis, a boy despised by his brothers who plotted against him, later rose from the depths to become one of the most powerful men in Egypt, facing the very men who had been responsible for the atrocities he’d suffered. Joseph had a choice. Let them die or help the ones who never helped him? This story weaves some of that same treachery with truth, teaching not only the heroine but the hero the ultimate meaning of love.

I wanted to give readers a book demonstrating the fact God will never leave us, even if we have left him for a time. That a personal relationship with Christ is our ultimate source of strength, and with His help, we can be pulled out of the depths of great sorrow, rising to heights we never imagined possible.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, August 22

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 23

Inklings and notions, August 24

Genesis 5020, August 24

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 25

For the Love of Literature, August 26

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 27

Maureen’s Musings, August 27

For Him and My Family, August 28

Godly Book Reviews, August 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 30

Labor Not in Vain, August 30

deb’s Book Review, August 31

Pause for Tales, September 1

Betti Mace, September 2

Rebecca Tews, September 2

Daysong Reflections, September 3

Connie’s History Classroom, September 4

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, D.L. is giving away the grand prize package of a $10 Amazon eGift Card and a free Audiobook of The Sinner in Mississippi!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/ffa5/the-sinner-in-mississippi-celebration-tour-giveaway

Lady Airell's Choice by Rachel Skatvold ~Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Book:  Lady Airell’s Choice
Author: Rachel Skatvold
Genre:  Christian Medieval Romance
Release Date: January, 2019

Will one choice save her kingdom from destruction?

During a time of peace and prosperity, Princess Airell of Daireann is given the rare privilege of choosing her own suitor. As eligible rulers from all over Ardena vie for her hand, a betrothal to Prince Tristan of Órlaith seems to be the clear choice. Yet, in the midst of Lady Airell’s happiness, the winds of change are coming.

When an evil usurper from the north rises to power and his forces attack the southern kingdoms, peace in Ardena is shattered. With Daireann under siege, the princess must find the courage to protect her people. Will Lady Airell choose to sacrifice her own happiness in order to save her kingdom?

Get swept up in an epic adventure while reading this Christian medieval romance filled with themes of faith, redemption and forgiveness.

Get your copy HERE 

My Review: 
Fans of Melanie Dickerson and Jody Hedlund will fall in love with Rachel Skatvold's Christian medieval romances.

A fantastic introduction to the Ladies of Ardena, with heroes and heroines courageous and brave. I loved how this book also sets up well for the following books in the series, introducing many wonderful characters whom I hope to see later on in the series. I really admired Reagan, her love for her husband, natural leadership and regal bearing.

Well paced, with great character development over the course of the story, as well as great interaction between many of the characters. I loved how this book took many turns twisting the traditional tropes to take me by surprise, yet retaining all of the charm.

Overall, this is a wonderfully enjoyable and satisfying read, that also left me wanting more. Strong themes of faith, duty, family, and love throughout this story. I loved Tiernay for his honor, sense of duty, and respect that he showed to others. Airell also grows so much over the course of the story. I loved her relationships with her family and how she is quick to make friends. You won't regret checking out this book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Rachel Skatvold is a Christian author and stay-at-home mom from the Midwest. She enjoys writing inspirational romance and encouraging blogs. Rachel completed her first series, the Riley Family Legacy Novellas in 2014 and is now working on the Hart Ranch Series, set in the Montana wilderness and the Ladies of Ardena Series, set in medieval times. She is also a contributing author in the Whispers in Wyoming, Brides of Pelican Rapids and Independence Island Series. Other than writing, some of her hobbies include singing, reading and camping in the great outdoors with her husband and two young sons. You can find more information about Rachel and her books on her website: www.rachelskatvold.com.

More from Rachel

The Ladies of Ardena Series has been by far my favorite series to write because the stories are adventurous fast-paced tales with themes of faith, hope and redemption. While I am more well-known for my contemporary western and small-town romance series, I have always been interested in history and fascinated with the medieval time period. Although Ardena is a fictional land, it is inspired by Irish and Scottish culture, in honor of my ancestors. Each book is also inspired by one of my six nieces and is dedicated to them. For that reason, these stories have a special place in my heart.
Lady Airell’s Choice follows the eldest daughter in the Daireann royal family who has come of age. Since it is a time of peace in the land, her father allows Airell to choose her own suitor. She is excited to start a new chapter in her life, but her dreams for the future are shattered when a usurper from the north kills her father and wages war against Daireann. Princess Airell is forced to choose between her own happiness and the survival of her kingdom.
Lady Airell’s story is inspired by Psalms 23 1-3 NLT which says: “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.” This verse is relevant during Airell’s time and in our lives today as well. We may not face the same perilous circumstances with evil kings and perilous voyages across the sea. Our battles are a little different these days, but God is still the same. He can help us through any trials and lead us down the correct path if we put our faith in Him.
Thank you for following this Celebration Tour for Lady Airell’s choice. To learn more about this book and the others in the series, please read the summary below and visit the series page on Amazon. Also, don’t’ forget to sign up for the giveaway for a chance to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card! Blessings.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, August 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 21

For the Love of Literature, August 22

Inklings and notions, August 23

Novels Corner, August 24

deb’s Book Review, August 24

For Him and My Family, August 25

Older & Smarter?, August 26

Connect in Fiction, August 27

Labor Not in Vain, August 27

Blossoms and Blessings, August 28

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, August 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 30

Pause for Tales, August 31

Emily Yager, September 1

Artistic Nobody, September 2 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/ffa1/lady-airell-s-choice-celebration-tour-giveaway