The Queen and the Knave by Sarah M. Eden // Review

My Review: 

A fitting conclusion as the Dread Penny Society goes against their most dangerous adversary yet!

Moirin Donnelly has been working behind the scenes with the Dread Penny Society, and when member begin to go missing to goes to the police. Fitzgerald Parkington is a recent transfer to the detective department, assigned to cold cases, one of which has a compelling connection that has him crossing paths with Moirin.

Deftly picking up the threads laid down in previous books, this final installment binds them all together for a thrilling and satisfying conclusion. I loved the banter, and solid friendships between the team. Moirin and Fitz make a wonderful team, and I loved how the problem solve together, and come to trust each other over the course of the story. The bonus stories were charming as always, with one about an enchanted queen and her guard, and another about two older ladies who decide to take on a new career solving mysteries. 

A wonderful conclusion, with likable characters, witty banter, and a high stakes conclusion. An excellent conclusion that ties up all the ends, with clean content, sweet romance, and a satisfying ending. 

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

Windsong Manor by Julie Wright // Review

My Review: 

A young widow moves her family to the countryside after the death of her husband, and finds support, friendship and more in an unlikely place. 

Eleanora Coventry is an instantly likable heroine, who makes the best of the less-than-ideal lot she's been handed in life. I admired her deep desire to instill solid values and morals in her young son, combating his spoiled behaviors with grace. She finds a friend and confidant in her stablemaster, an honorable man who harbors secrets of his own. 

I liked how Ridley shares his knowledge with Nora and her children. But Nora was my favorite. She rolled with the punches, and made the best of every situation, not giving up fighting for her son despite the plan put in place by her late husband. 

Overall, this was a quick read, well written with good interaction and well-developed characters. I thought that it was well done, and the interaction between Nora and her son, were definitely realistic. A quick, enjoyable read about fresh starts and fighting for the ones you love. 

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

Until Our Time Comes by Nicole M. Miller // JustRead

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Until Our Time Comes by Nicole M. Miller hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Until Our Time Comes 

Author: Nicole M. Miller 

Publisher: Revell 

Release Date: July 2, 2024 

Genre: WWII Historical Romance 

American horse trainer Adia Kensington is living her dream of working at the famous Janów Podlaski stables in Poland, where they breed the best Arabian horses in the world. But her plans to bring the priceless stallion Lubor to the US are derailed when the German army storms into her adopted country in 1939. Little does she know this is just the beginning of six long years of occupation that will threaten her beloved horses at every turn. 

Bret Conway is at Janów Podlaski under the guise of a news reporter, but his true mission is intelligence gathering for the British. That and keeping Adia safe, which is harder and harder to do as she insists they must evacuate 250 horses to save them from being stolen, sold, or eaten by the invading forces. What follows will test their physical, mental, and emotional strength, as well as their faith in God, humankind, and each other. 

Drawn from true events of World War II, this epic story of escape, capture, resistance, and love from debut novelist Nicole M. Miller will thunder into your heart like a herd of beautiful horses across a raging river.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

Review:

A gripping historical novel that follows horse trainer Adia Kensington as she fights for her life and that of the beautiful horses she cares for in war torn Poland. 

A little slow to start, I was quickly pulled into this richly woven historical with a plotline full of intrigue and danger. Adia is passionate about her work with the Lipizzaners and Arabians, headstrong and determined she is willing to fight for the horses. I liked how she and Bret work together, meeting new friends, and holding onto hope when the war threatens to come between them. 

I especially like Ewan, and his mischievous ways that brought a smile to my face, and added a lighter side to the story, as well as humor. 

Overall, an intriguing World War II read with strong characters, a riveting plot, especially intriguing for fellow horse lovers. Inspiring and uplifting story, filled with hope. 

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

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About the Author

Nicole M. Miller lives in Washington State with her husband and two sons, along with her Arabian horses, chickens, ducks, dogs, cats, and guinea pigs. As a longtime horse owner, she's been involved in many horse organizations, including serving on the Clark County Fair Court and as Miss Teen Rodeo Washington. She's received national and regional awards for her nonfiction from American Horse Publications and the Society of Professional Journalists. See her stories in The Horse of My Heart, The Horse of My Dreams, The Dog Who Came to Christmas, and Second-Chance Horses.

Connect with Nicole by visiting NicoleMillerWriter.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Until Our Time Comes and a $25 gift card to Bookshop.org!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight July 17, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 24, 2024. 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

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

Love, Unscripted by Denise Hunter // Review

My Review: 

Chloe's dreams are coming true with her debut novel being turned into a feature film, the only problem is the actor they have cast to play the leading man--Hollywood bad boy with a reputation of being a womanizing player. In order to win favor with the press for the movie and remedy Liam's reputation they agree to fake a relationship, but will a scripted romance go off the books? 

A fun romantic comedy, full of heart, and captivating characters. Engaging and easy to get into with one of my favorite tropes of a fake relationship. I liked the full cast of characters, in the quaint small town. Chloe is a fantastic sister, daughter, and friend to those around her. Liam has a good heart beneath his curated image, and I liked how he was willing to protect Chloe the best he knew how. 

Overall, a quick read, fun and sweet, full of heart and good interactions. A solid standalone novel from Denise Hunter!

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

Kill Her Twice by Stacey Lee // Review

My Review: 

When a beloved rising star is murdered, Gemma and May Chow know there must be more afoot than the police are letting on. 

I loved the alternating viewpoints of sisters Gemma and May, as they work to keep their family afloat, and bring their friend's killer to justice. May is the beautiful and responsible older sister, with a looming arranged marriage, and dreams left unrealized. Gemma is the plucky younger sister, with a knack for talking her way in and out of almost any situation. 

An entertaining historical coming of age tale that brings to life the not so glamorous underside to the bright lights of the silver screen. This story has it all, murder, mystery, sisters, humor, and the flutterings of love. Another solid novel from one of my favorite authors. A highly entertaining read, with great interaction, two different but equally intriguing sisters. Highly recommend!

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

Into the Starlight by Amanda Cabot // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Joanna returns to Sweetwater Crossing after losing her husband and dreams of being a concert pianist, and finds herself swept into a long unsolved missing persons mystery. 

A intriguing drama with well developed characters within a riveting plot that kept the pages turning. I loved revisiting Sweetwater Crossing and the three sisters, as they reunite and work to figure out what really happened to Mr. Finley. 

Great character interaction, and a well developed plot moved the story. I liked Burke, and how he is willing to share his knowledge, as well as how he is open and up front about how he feels. 

Overall, a well rounded read that does an excellent job of tying the series together, though each could also be read as a stand alone. Engaging drama, with great characters and sweet romance. 

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

Montana Abduction Rescue by Jodie Bailey // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Ian is released from Witness Protection when the crime boss that he put away is reported dead, but the danger is far from over. 

When his cousin is taken, he knows that is must have something to do with the previous case, so he contacts his former handler, Meadow Ames, and together they must fight to bring Ian's cousin home. 

An action packed read, with a complex plot, strong characters and a lot going on. I liked the great plot, and strong themes of faith woven throughout. Definitely a fun read, with some will they or won't they tension. 

Overall, a great quick read with plenty going on, and heart pounding suspense. 

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

The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron // Review

My Review: 

Friends who dreamt of building a bookshop together, separated by class and war, find themselves years later facing a second world war as they fight for their hometown. 

A riveting dual timeline read set during both World Wars, following both Lady Charlotte and Amos Denby, their close friendship and the events that brought them to where they are. The nonlinear timeline really served this novel well, as we uncover the secrets of their past. 

I really liked Jacob and Eden in the 1940's timeline, as well as getting to know the Land Girls. Amos was one of my favorite characters, and I really enjoyed seeing the man he was while in the midst of the first world war. 

Overall, a captivating story of forbidden love in a time of war, with a well paced plot, and well developed characters. Highly recommend for fans of Downton Abbey era reads, with realistic historical settings and engrossing plots. 

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

Until Our Time Comes by Nicole M. Miller // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A gripping historical novel that follows horse trainer Adia Kensington as she fights for her life and that of the beautiful horses she cares for in war torn Poland. 

A little slow to start, I was quickly pulled into this richly woven historical with a plotline full of intrigue and danger. Adia is passionate about her work with the Lipizzaners and Arabians, headstrong and determined she is willing to fight for the horses. I liked how she and Bret work together, meeting new friends, and holding onto hope when the war threatens to come between them. 

I especially like Ewan, and his mischievous ways that brought a smile to my face, and added a lighter side to the story, as well as humor. 

Overall, a intriguing World War II read with strong characters, a riveting plot, especially intriguing for fellow horse lovers. Inspiring and uplifting story, filled with hope. 

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

Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts by Donna Wyland, illustrated by Courtney Smith // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

 

Book: Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts

Author: Donna Wyland

Genre: : Picture Book

Release date: 2023

The sky is like a large blue tent

stretched high above the sun,

that floats and falls from end to end

and warms till day is done.

~ Psalm 19:5-6

Young hearts will cherish the sweet rhyme contained in Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts as they are gently guided to a closer relationship with God. From beginning to end, the colorful childlike illustrations bring the psalms to life and inspire children to hide God’s Word in their hearts.

Uniquely created for children ages 4 – 8, this book of scriptural poetry will inspire children to sing praises to God and help them understand and remember God’s constant presence and powerful promises. And, for parents who want to lead their growing children to the original Bible psalms, they are included at the end.

Whether for morning devotions or nighttime prayers,

Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts will bless children seeking to know the Lord

and provide a foundation for intimate spiritual time

with parents, grandparents, and others.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review:

A darling collection of poems inspired by a selection of Psalms, set in rhyming verse and especially written for young children to point to the original Psalms that are included with a glossary in back of the book. 

Illustrated with darling pictures that bring the words to life in a way that bring the words to life in a cheerily colored and encouraging way. A great book to read before bedtime and share with the little ones in your life. Each rhyme concludes with a prayer that ties in with the poem. 

Overall, a wonderful treasury of Psalm inspired poems to read with your young one, a great gift to share!

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

About the Author

DONNA WYLAND is an award-winning author, busy mother, grandmother and friend. She is the author of ‘Twas the Night Before Jesus, a best-selling children’s picture book and is a contributor to many inspirational essay collections. Donna lives and writes at her home in Southwest Florida and her condo overlooking the ski slopes in Steamboat, Colorado.

 

 

 

 

More from Donna

“More than 30 years ago I discovered the meaning of the Book of Psalms. Whether I was struggling or celebrating, God led me to individual psalms that encouraged and comforted me and gave me the strength to persevere. It is my heart’s desire to see children learn the power and peace of the psalms early in life so they, too, will turn to God’s Word when they need hope and comfort, or they are searching for the right words to praise Him for His blessings and favor. This book of rhyming psalms protects the biblical meaning of each psalm while putting the message in a child’s vocabulary with rhyme to help them remember.”

Blog Stops

Divine Perspective, July 1

Blossoms and Blessings, July 2 (Author Interview)

Lots of Helpers, July 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 3

Life on Chickadee Lane, July 4

Labor Not in Vain, July 5

Texas Book-aholic, July 6

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, July 7

Vicky Sluiter, July 8 (Author Interview)

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, July 9

Locks, Hooks and Books, July 10

For Him and My Family, July 11

Cover Lover Book Review, July 12

Guild Master, July 13 (Author Interview)

A Reader’s Brain, July 14 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, July 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Donna is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Magnolia Market 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/2c80a/psalms-in-rhyme-for-little-hearts-celebration-tour-giveaway

Toward the Dawn by Mary Connealy // Just Read

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Toward the Dawn by Mary Connealy hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Toward the Dawn 

Series: A Western Light #2 

Author: Mary Connealy 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: June 18, 2024 

Genre: Christian Historical Western Romance

Despite trials that threaten their path forward, hope dawns for a future filled with love.

Kat Wadsworth and Sebastian Jones never imagined their lives would entwine so closely. Forced to flee on a wagon train from a vengeful uncle and an unknown gunman, they live in a hidden canyon with the family that rescued them. But as the days turn into months, they each have separate reasons for wanting to move back to society, and the best way to the independence they desperately crave might be through a marriage of convenience. 

However, settling into their homestead in Cheyenne, Wyoming, reveals a different reality for Kat. Her new husband becomes consumed by his inventions, leaving her feeling lonely and isolated. And just when they think they've left the danger behind, a mysterious attacker lurks in the shadows, threatening the new life they've built. Together, they must confront the perils from their pasts to forge a future with hope and the prospect of love.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

Review: Kat and Sebastian bind their life together in hopes of finding freedom, now in a marriage of convenience they must face the Wyoming frontier and the ghosts from the past that threaten their future together. 

A fast paced read that builds on the events of the previous book, so it really helps to read the series in order. I loved how Kat and Sebastian come to depend on each other, discovering each other's talents and coming to admire each of their strengths. There is plenty of action and humorous interactions, while it kept me guessing who was after them and why. 

Sebastian is a talented inventor, who can sometimes be too absorbed in his work. I liked how he learned to appreciate Kat's quick thinking, and how they bonded through working together and facing danger head on. 

A highly enjoyable western read with strong characters, and an engaging plot, that had me holding on till the very end! 

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

More Books from this Series

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About the Author

Mary Connealy writes "romantic comedies with cowboys" and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has sold more than 1.5 million books and is the author of the popular series Wyoming Sunrise and The Lumber Baron's Daughters and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero.

Connect with Mary by visiting MaryConnealy.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Toward the Dawn and a $20 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 July 3, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 10, 2024. 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

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

Two to Tango by Kathleen Fuller // Review

My Review: 

A workaholic doctor and a soft-spoken librarian get a second chance at making a connection in this sweet Maple Falls Romance. 

An enjoyable read from beginning to end with a full cast of new and familiar characters, I loved the BB's matchmaking schemes. Olivia is a quiet and more introverted soul, and I loved how her aunt challenged her to get out of her comfort zone. Meanwhile Kingston, is a busy man who needed to learn about over committing himself and taking time to re-charge. They have a wonderful group of friends around them. 

My favorite part of the story was probably Irma and Jasper through, with their banter and unlikely friendship. 

Overall, the perfect book to unwind with, sweet and heartwarming with characters that are easy to love. Highly engaging and entertaining, Kathleen Fuller has again shown why she is my go-to author for a relaxing read full of humor, faith, and heart. 

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

The Sisters of Corinth by Angela Hunt // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

 

Book: The Sisters of Corinth (The Emissaries: Book 2)

Author: Angela Hunt

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release date: May 21, 2024

”Angela Hunt takes her craft to new heights–and depths–as she fully immerses us in the lives and struggles of first-century followers of Yeshua.”–Tamera Alexander, bestselling author on The Woman from Lydia

When the new provincial governor arrives in Corinth, the esteemed Chief Magistrate Narkis Ligus, father to Mariana and Prima, is delighted. He sees a golden opportunity to propel himself to greater power and fortune by uniting his and the governor’s households through the marriage of one of his beautiful unwed daughters to the governor’s firstborn son.

Yet complications quickly arise in Narkis’s own family. Mariana, his stepdaughter, holds steadfast faith in Yeshua, rendering her hesitant to marry a man devoted to the Roman gods, despite Narkis’s urging. On the other hand, Prima, his daughter by birth, yearns for a life of wealth and status and is willing to go to great lengths to secure a marriage that fulfills her desires–even if it means betraying Mariana to do so.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A riveting read that brings to life the ancient Roman world, and the powerful strongholds that came with living in a pagan society in the early days of the church. 

Chief Magistrate Narkis Ligus has a plan to raise his status by marrying one of his two daughters to the new provincial governor, Prima longs for the opportunity, while Mariana is a follower of Yeshua and has no interest in marrying a man who worships the Roman gods. A gripping read that brings the early church in Rome to life vividly, I was so inspired by their strong faith, and willingness to stand against the popular culture, even if it meant their lives. 

Mariana is a faithful Christian, and daughter, I liked how she did her best in each challenge that came her way, holding to her faith. It was harder to read Prima's chapters because of all the awful things that she did to Hester and Mariana. But I also really admired Hester, for her gentle way of living her faith. 

Overall, an engaging read, full of faith, that brings a very real time in the early church to life. A riveting drama with characters that you can cheer for throughout!

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

About the Author

  Angela Hunt is a New York Times bestselling author of more than 160 books, with nearly 6 million copies sold worldwide. Angela’s novels have won or been nominated for the RWA RITA Award, the Christy Award, the ECPA Christian Book Award, and the HOLT Medallion. Four of her novels have received ForeWord Magazine’s Book of the Year Award, and Angela is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from both the Romantic Times Book Club and ACFW. Angela holds doctorates in biblical studies and theology. She and her husband make their home in Florida with mastiffs and chickens.

More from Angela

Hello!

Thank you for helping me kick off the book tour for THE SISTERS OF CORINTH. This book is the second in my Emissaries series, but don’t worry—it reads like a stand alone.

The series features Gentiles who became believers in Christ through the ministry of Paul. The first book was about the woman called Lydia who lived in Philippi, and this book is about two step-sisters who lived in Corinth, the “Vegas” of the Roman Empire. What happened in Corinth stayed in Corinth, if you get my meaning, and there was a LOT going on in that pagan city.

I couldn’t help but think of Cinderella’s story as I wrote the opening of this book. The novel begins when the two sisters hear about the new governor coming to Corinth. He has a handsome and eligible son, and Narkis, the head of their family, is determined that one of his daughters should marry him. Prima is like her father, power-hungry and pretentious, while quiet Mariana is a believer in Yeshua. There’s a great deal of primping and preparing, scheming and scowling as the banquet draws near, and you’ll never guess which daughter the young man chooses—or maybe you will.

I hope you enjoy THE SISTERS OF CORINTH and thank you so much for taking part in this book tour. I am so grateful!

Always,

Angela Hunt

Blog Stops

Inspired by Fiction, June 19

Lots of Helpers, June 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 21

Devoted To Hope, June 21

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 22

Texas Book-aholic, June 23

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, June 23

Batya’s Bits, June 24

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 25

She Lives To Read, June 25

Stories By Gina, June 26 (Author Interview)

Dee S White, June 26

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, June 27

Lily’s Corner, June 27

Bigreadersite, June 28

Cover Lover Book Review, June 29

The Lit Lady, June 30

Holly’s Book Corner, July 1

Pause for Tales, July 1

Labor Not in Vain, July 2

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Angela is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy of The Woman from Lydia and The Sisters of Corinth and a $15 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/2c069/the-sisters-of-corinth-celebration-tour-giveaway

Meet Me at the Starlight by Rachel Hauck

Lucie's Review: 

Supermodel Harlow Hayes comes to the small coastal town of Sea Blue Beach to escape the limelight, and is surprised to find actor Matt Knight in town working to help his grandmother save the town's beloved roller skating rink. 

A sweet small town romance, with big stars. Both Harlow and Matt are looking for a new start in Sea Blue Beach, and have made their share of mistakes, and I enjoyed getting to know Tuesday through the alternating POVs. 

An engaging read, perfect for fans of Hallmark movies, and sweet romances. Strong character development throughout, as well as a picturesque smalltown setting. I loved Tuesday's determination to hold onto the Starlight.

Overall, an heartwarming romance set in a small town, with great characters, with light faith themes. A quick fun read, with little tie-ins to previous books by this author. 

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