9.28.2020

Beholden by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review:

A brand new trilogy set in the same universe as Ms. Hedlund's previous The Lost Princesses Trilogy.

A fresh re-telling of Cinderella, with a courageous and kind-hearted heroine. Lady Gabriella has been sentenced to Queen Margery's jewel mines, but all it not as it appears, can Gabriella end the barbaric alchemy that keeps them enslaved?

An engaging new fairy-tale, with a brave heroine and worthy prince. I loved how this book sets the stage for the future books in the series, while also being a satisfying read all on its own. Gabriella is compassionate with a warrior's heart for truth. Vilmar is honorable, and I admired how he does the right thing, even after counting the cost. Both he and Gabriella are natural leaders who care about others, and are willing to sacrifice themselves for something greater.

This book has a little more magic or alchemy (regarded as evil) than previous books, as well as a more parallel fairy tale correlation, which I thought was fun as I love a good fairy tale retelling. Romantic, exciting, with characters with strong faith. I also liked how the author took into account the setting and used fitting vocabulary to make this story some alive.

An entertaining fresh Cinderella retelling, fast-paced, with strong themes of friendship, truth, honor, and sacrifice. I'm excited to continue this series, and find out what happens next!

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

Something Worth Doing by Jane Kirkpatrick ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

This books reads like a novelized biography, and tells the story of real-life women's suffrage supporter Abigail "Jenny" Scott Duniway, a writer, wife, mother, and suffragette.

This as a difficult book for me to read, as I never really connected with the main character or completely understood her motivations as she didn't seem to have many close relationships with other women. Often I felt that this book told more than showed, and I felt like I only saw one dimension of the story. I think it would have really added to the story to include samplings of her writings that corresponded with the story.

Ms. Kirkpatrick is a master of writing real-life flawed characters that aren't always likable, in a way that rings true. I admired Abigail's passion for her work, and I liked that this book doesn't shy away from showing the cost of her choices.

Overall, this book was a struggle for me to read and I felt like Abigail's faith could be summed up into a theology of God helps those who help themselves. While I appreciate the history and research that went into this book, and I liked that it didn't paint a glossy picture of how having it all is easy, this just didn't connect with me personally.

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

The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus by Jaime Jo Wright ~ Review

My Review:

A dual timeline story of two young women separated by almost a century, searching for the truth in world of secrets and illusion.

An intriguing story of family, faith, romance, and suspense spanning the better part of a 100 years. Engaging from the beginning, I loved how this book follows two very different young women, as they walk the grounds years apart. Pippa is drawn to the circus, as it holds the answers to the secret of her origins. While in the present day, Chandler is a single mother working to restore the circus grounds into a commercial property, but tales of murder and mystery haunt the historical buildings.

I loved the colorful cast of characters that populate the small town, welcoming Chandler and Peter. Hank is perfectly brooding, masculine, and mysterious. I admired Chandler's work ethic, she is a fantastic mother, who tries to do it all.

Pippa is looking for answers, she has always felt more at home with the circus performers, than living the privileged life of the daughter of a wealthy man. She is sensitive and intuitive, with a natural gift for nurturing, yet she is haunted by a mysterious man watching her from the shadows. Jake is dangerous, and incredibly loyal . I admired Pippa's courage as she finds her voice.

A riveting read, with well crafted and intriguing characters. I loved the duality and depth to many of the characters, including many of the supporting characters, those layers brought the story together in a way that shows the complex relationships and adds an element of unexpectedness. Captivating, filled with mystery, romance, with faith woven throughout the story. Highly recommend!

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

9.27.2020

Until I Met You by Tari Faris ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

A small town face-lift, brings conflict, restoration, and love for two estranged brothers.

I loved returning to Heritage, and seeing many familiar faces as the community comes together to inject new life into the town square. This story follows two brothers, Austin and Nate, who both have had their struggles in the past, some of which have put them at odds with each other. Nate is now a preacher, while Austin is the architect in charge of the town revamp. I loved how there is a lot going in this book, with multiple relationship dynamics at play as we follow the two brothers, as well as Olivia, a journalist, and Libby who is the new librarian.

An engaging read, that hooked me from the start, I found it even easier and more enjoyable to return for a visit after already being familiar with the town and some of the faces. I admired Libby's innovative thinking and her passion for making the library more accessible for the townspeople. There is strong character development and interaction, as well as solid faith. I admired who both of the men had become.

A thoroughly enjoyable read, it felt like it was over far too soon, I loved every minute of it.

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

9.26.2020

Pretending to Wed by Melissa Jagears ~ Celebrate Lit Blog Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Pretending to Wed

Author: Melissa Jagears

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: May 28, 2020

It’s a match made in heaven…as long as they don’t fall in love!

The ranch Nolan Key has spent decades working for, even lost a leg for, is now his—or at least it should be. But an absurd clause in his father’s will means he’s in danger of losing the place to his lazy, undeserving cousin. Nolan finds himself scrambling to save his home—by proposing marriage to the town laundress.

Corinne Stillwater’s hands have betrayed her. Numb from hours of doing the same work over and over, her hands will only heal, according to the town doctor, if she gives up the laundry and marries. But she’s been stung repeatedly by love before, so that is one remedy she can’t swallow.

When Nolan offers Corinne a marriage in name only, how can she refuse? Such a partnership could give them the security they seek, but what if the ranch isn’t as secure as they believe, and their lives—and dreams—aren’t quite as compatible as they thought?

Pretending to Wed is the second book in the Frontier Vows Series by award-winning Christian romance author Melissa Jagears. If you like marriage-of-convenience stories that deal with the nitty-gritty of making a relationship work, you’ll love this authentic romance set in a time gone by that tackles issues still relevant for today.

Click here to get your copy!

Review:

Two stubborn hearts determined never to marry find themselves making the business deal of a lifetime when they agree to a marriage of convenience.

Engaging, with strong protagonists that you can't help but cheer for throughout. I loved Corinne's innovative spirit, and her passion for creating things to improve the lives of herself and others. I admired her strong work ethic, and related to how hard it is to be the one asking for help. I loved how her situation gave her the opportunity to befriend other women, as there are so many terrific supporting characters many of whom are familiar faces from the previous book in the series.

Nolan is one of my favorite heroes, he is noble, and he can match Corinne in stubbornness. They have terrific chemistry, I loved how he stood up for her, and was determined to always stand by her and support her in her interests.

Overall, this was a fantastic story, the characters blew me away, there was terrific romantic tension and relationship building. I loved the fantastic friends that they both had, as well as how Corinne and Nolan's relationship grew throughout the book, as they came to respect each other. Engaging and well written, I had a hard time putting it down. I went into this book having not already read the first book in the series, and I had no problem just jumping in, but I did notice that if you haven't read the first book yet, then there are some spoilers, but it didn't detract from me wanting to read Annie and Jacob's story--like right now. Highly enjoyable read, that handles delicate topics well with faith centered answers, and a satisfying ending. Definitely recommend!

*This book does talk tactfully and honestly about the more physical side of marriage, so maybe wouldn't recommend for younger readers.

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

About the Author

Award winning author, Melissa Jagears, is a homeschooling mom who writes Christian Historical Romance into the wee hours of the night. She lives in Kansas with her husband and three children. Her ebook novella, Love by the Letter, is her ACFW Carol Award winning novella and free to try. You can learn more about her, her books, and where she hangs out online at www.melissajagears.com

More from Melissa

The Elusive Electrical Spark to Awaken Frankenstein’s Monster

The plot of Pretending to Wed just wasn’t coming together for me. I had the romantic dilemma, but I didn’t love the characters. They were boring. And if I’m going to write a book, a.k.a. read it a bazillion times, I have to really want to read the book myself. I decided to take a break from the weeks of struggle and read. I was recommended a book because of the author’s great voice (I can’t recommend it because it’s not a clean novel), but I loved the fact that the heroine was a scientific illustrator. I wondered if I could give my heroine a scientific hobby and came up with inventing. That single character tidbit was the jolt that awakened Frankenstein’s Monster. She came alive! The research into what she could have patented at the time led my imagination to the egg hatching romance scene in the middle of the story and I was hooked! I couldn’t wait to read my book that didn’t yet exist.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 17

Writing from the Heart Land, September 17

Through the Lens of Scripture, September 17

Texas Book-aholic, September 18

Inklings and notions, September 18

For Him and My Family, September 19

Connie's History Classroom, September 19

deb's Book Review, September 19

Batya's Bits, September 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 20

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, September 20

lakesidelivingsite, September 21

Genesis 5020, September 21

The Book Chic Blog, September 21

Christian Chick's Thoughts, September 22

The Collaborative Press, September 22

Betti Mace, September 22

Sara Jane Jacobs, September 23

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, September 23

Melissa Wardwell’s Back Porch Reads, September 24

Remembrancy, September 24

Wishful Endings, September 24

Life of Literature, September 25

Book Love, September 25 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Bizwings Blog, September 25

Ashley’s Bookshelf, September 26

Bigreadersite, September 26

Labor Not in Vain, September 26

CarpeDiem, September 27

Hookmeinabook, September 27

Splashes of Joy , September 27

Jodie Wolfe - Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, September 28

Artistic Nobody, September 28 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 29

Adventures Of A Travelers Wife, September 29

Blessed & Bookish, September 29

Simple Harvest Reads, September 30 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Maureen's Musings, September 30

NovelsCorner, September 30

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Melissa is giving away the grand prize package of a Gift Certificate for the winner’s Choice of Book (up to 16.99 plus S&H) from Melissa’s Local Christian Bookstore, Faith & Life Bookstore, and a signed copy of Pretending to Wed!!

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/100e6/pretending-to-wed-celebration-tour-giveaway

9.25.2020

The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox ~ Review

My Review:

A compelling dual timeline story that follows the life of Ivy Rose as she returns to her hometown, she discovers more about her past as she makes choices about her future.

Captivating from the very beginning this heartfelt tale, is a story of faith, family, and the choices that bring us together. This book kept me guessing all the way to the end, and I didn't want to put it down because I wanted to know what had happened as the two threads got closer to converging.

The characters are well crafted, I loved Harvey for his courage, unorthodox survival tactics, resourcefulness, and nurturing heart. I loved how this book introduces so many wonderful people in one small community who captured my heart, as I longed, laughed and cried along with them.

A stunning debut, with memorable characters, poignant storytelling, with equally engaging storylines. I loved how it explores the complex relationships, and the beauty of love in unexpected places. Well constructed and well worth your time. I highly recommend this masterpiece!

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

9.24.2020

Two Reasons to Run by Colleen Coble ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Picking up where the last book left off, Reid and Jane find themselves fighting for the life of their teenage son, while trying to come to terms with their presence in each other's life.

Can they stop the environmental terrorist and save their son's life?

A dynamic read, filled with action, great relationship building, and faith. A quick read, with great tension, in this race against time. It also does a great job of exploring the complex relationships due to Jane's tangled past. I really liked the man that Reid has become through all of this, he is a great father, and I admired his strong faith.

Jane is a strong protagonist, with a complicated past. I liked that she is coming to terms with her new life and the choices that were made for her when she was young.

Overall this is a great installment to the series, with a high stakes mystery. Suspenseful, and hard to put down! I liked how this book continues to deal with the things that unfolded in the previous book, as well as how we continue to follow Jane and Reid as they work through what they are now. This did not disappoint, and I can't wait to read book three!

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

9.23.2020

Covert Cover-Up by Elizabeth Goddard ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Private Eye Katelyn Bradley steps in to help stop an intruder in her neighbor's home. Widower Beck Goodwin just wants to raise his son in a safe neighborhood, but unknown secrets from the past threaten to unravel everything.

A fast paced read, filled with suspense, mystery, and action that kept me on my toes. This author is quickly becoming one of my favorite Christian suspense writers, and this novel is another article in favor of that. I loved the tension in this story of never knowing what would happen next, or if they were safe for even a moment. Plus, the characters were well crafted, I loved the character arcs, and how they grew in their faith.

Taut with tension, with great character interaction, faith, and a plot that had me on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend this action packed read, I couldn't put it down!

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

9.22.2020

His Gift by Joan C. Benson ~ Just Read Tour, Review and Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for His Gift by Joan Benson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: His Gift
Author: Joan C. Benson
Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing
Release Date: July 26, 2020
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

Dreams Can Come True!

Brace yourself for a thrilling race through the twists and turns of a young woman determined to see her dream come true. On the cusp of the stock market crash of 1929, seventeen-year-old Molly has aspirations for a career in music after high school. With the passion of an athlete preparing for the Olympics, she trains relentlessly to become the best she can be. As her world collapses in unimaginable ways, she is left to find peace and purpose in the midst of her crisis. The message of His Gift is universal to anyone who has ever dared to dream in spite of uncontrollable circumstances. The reader will discover with Molly, the hope and peace in a life when yielded to the Giver of all gifts.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

My Review:

Based on a true story, His Gift, is the story of Molly who finds her dreams of being a concert pianist dissolving with the 1929 crash of the stock market.

A heartwarming coming of age story, about dreams and how they change. Molly is a gifted young woman, with a talent for music and the dedication to really go somewhere with her gift. I loved how supportive her friends and family were of her dreams, even though times were changing.

This story is well written, with realistic characters, delving deep into Molly's faith and the difficult questions about her future that she faces. A story of friendship, family, faith, God's providence and provision. Straightforward and heartwarming, a wonderful coming of age tale of growth and faith.

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joan C. Benson is a freelance writer, a former reading specialist and educator, wife, mother of four adult children, and a proud grandmother to eight cherished grandchildren. She has been a contributing author to numerous magazines from children to adult content. With a long career of writing for English language learners, Joan has contributed to both student and teacher programs for various educational publishers creating all genres of texts and curriculum. Most recently, her debut historical fiction novel, His Gift, was released by Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. Joan lives in Chesapeake, VA, with her husband and their two Bichon Frisé dogs. Follow her at www.joancbenson.com.

CONNECT WITH JOAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive 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 will begin at midnight September 22, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on September 29, 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

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

9.21.2020

The Christmas Swap by Melody Carlson ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

A short, sweet Christmas read, filled with humor and misunderstanding.

An delightful Christmastime romantic comedy, great for kicking back and relaxing. Perfect for fans of sweet romantic comedies and holiday movies.

Emma Daley agrees to accompany her friends on a Christmas vacation house swap, she is more than happy to go somewhere snowy and cold for Christmas. I loved her friendship with Gillian, despite the ups and downs, she loves her for who she is and is a great friend.

Singer-Songwriter T. West Prescott, is on his way to a vacation of his own, but after mistakenly leaving behind some important music, he stops back at the house, meeting Emma and the Landers family, and decides to stick around.

This is a sweet, romantic comedy of a read, with fun characters that are all too relatable at times. One of my favorite characters ended up being Grant, who is just all-around a nice guy. I had a great time reading this book, it was fun, heartwarming, and romantic. It put a smile on my face. I really enjoyed it.

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

9.19.2020

A Portrait of Loyalty by Roseanna M. White ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

A compelling and timely read, set against tumultuous First World War.

Lily Blackwell is a skilled photographer who not only knows how to take good pictures, but how to edit them. Her father is well connected in the Navy, while her mother shuns the political use of the arts. She wants to do something that matters, putting her skilled eyes to work. I loved how supportive her family is, though they might not always see things the same way.

Zivon, one of Russia's top cryptographers, fled his home country in hopes of helping to bring the war to a favorable end. Zivon is incredibly observant with great intuition that serves him well.

Once I started this book I couldn't put it down, the author does a great job of blending the tension of the times and situation, with strong character growth and relationships. I love how this book delves into the families of Lily and Zivon, we see the relationships and dynamics that make them who they are and bring this story to life. I loved the friendships and the relationships in this book, as well as how it brings back many familiar faces from the previous books in the series. This was a fantastic read all the way through, with amazing chemistry and strong family ties, mystery and intrigue along the way. Highly engaging, with terrific pacing, a fitting conclusion to what has been a truly memorable series!

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

9.18.2020

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