Four Weddings and a Kiss by Margaret Brownley, Debra Clopton, Mary Connealy, and Robin Lee Hatcher ~ Litfuse Blog Tour & Review

Lucie's Review:


An engaging and entertaining collection of distinctly different, but well written short stories full of humor and love set against a western plain.

Treb Rayburn from A Cowboy for Katie was probably my favorite hero, he was always kind to Katie, and patient when helping her overcome her fears. Katie was strong remembering what her father taught her about life.

Rylan Carstens rides to Maizy's rescue in Spitfire Sweetheart , but as a result ends up with a broken leg. Now it up to Maizy to return the favor, which leads to plenty of humorous situations that brought a smile to my face.

I absolutely loved the interaction between Molly and Jack in A Love Letter to the Editor. Both Molly and Jack were intelligent and articulate, and worked well together despite Molly initial intentions.

And while all of the girls had their difficulties in courting, none were quite like Grace Davenport's Courting Trouble which actually brought her to court!

I loved how each of the stories was woven together with faith, and had a wise preacher who gave godly wisdom. This was a lovely collection of stories, with an extra "kiss" at the end. A wonderful collection, that is both short and sweet, I would definitely recommend this book to fans of western romance!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising." 


About the book: 

Spitfire Sweetheart by Mary Connealy

Maizy Place is an unruly tomboy. When she causes an accident, injuring neighbor Rylan Carstens, she becomes his unlikely caregiver. Rylan has never noticed how pretty his infuriating neighbor is, and he never expected to fall in love.

Love Letter to the Editor by Robin Lee Hatcher

Molly Everton is the outspoken daughter of the town newspaper's owner. When her father brings in an outsider to be editor, she tries to drive him out of town. But Jack Ludgrove is not intimidated. He's resolved to change Molly's mind about him---as an editor and as a man.

A Cowboy for Katie by Debra Clopton

Katie Pearl is uninterested in men and love. But she needs help on her ranch and hires Treb Rayburn, a wandering cowboy looking to make a buck. Will Treb change Katie's mind?

Courting Trouble by Margaret Brownley

Grace Davenport is either the unluckiest woman alive---or a killer. When her third husband is found dead, Grace is arrested. Attorney Brock Daniels isn't interested in the case---until he meets Grace. Only a miracle will prove her innocence, but the joining of two lonely hearts may be their saving grace.

Purchase a copy:  http://bit.ly/1qTiFK2

About the authors: 

Margaret Brownley is a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling author and has penned more than thirty novels. Her books have won numerous awards and has written for a TV soap opera. @margaretbrownley 

Robin Lee Hatcher is a Christy and RITA award-winning author. She is the author of over seventy novels and her work often appear on bestseller lists. @robinleehatcher 

Mary Connealy is an award-winning author of romantic comedy with cowboys. Mary and her Nebraska rancher husband have four grown daughters and two spectacular grandchildren. @MaryConnealy 

Debra Clopton is an award winning author of sweet, heartfelt, western romance that face life with a smile. With over 2 million books in print, Debra's first book-to-movie aired on ABC Family and starred LeAnn Rimes. @debraclopton

 

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/four-weddings-and-a-kiss 

 

 

Yankee in Atlanta by Jocelyn Green ~ CFBA Tour and Review

Lucie's Review:  

Yankee in Atlanta  is a highly historical read, with a full cast of characters. This book shows in a realistic way how the War Between the States both tore people apart and brought them together.

Caitlin is a young woman who is found wounded in battle, wearing the uniform of the opposite side. Now that her secret is out she is determined to make a life for herself in Atlanta as a teacher an governess for Noah Becker's daughter. Though Noah leaves money to care for his daughter, but that is son gone with the supply shortages causing inflation of prices, and the fat that they will no longer accept Confederate money as a mode of payment.

Will Caitlin be able to survive as a Yankee in Atlanta?

This was a book that was slow to start, yet compelling in its realistic perspective of the Civil War through the eyes of a woman. While this is the third in a series there is very little to connect it to the previous books in the series, making it wonderful as a stand alone. And if you didn't recognize the connection, there isn't any loss of understanding of the plotline.

Overall, this was a very well written historical novel about what many people experienced during the war. There were may intertwining storylines the intersected and came apart, making the perfect conclusion even better! And while there wasn't much interaction between the lead characters it was understandable because of the war. Definitely a book well worth the read for fans of Civil War history!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Yankee in Atlanta River North(June 1, 2014) by Jocelyn Green

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jocelyn Green is a child of God, wife and mom living in Cedar Falls, Iowa. She is also an award-winning journalist, author, editor and blogger. Though she has written nonfiction on a variety of topics, her name is most widely recognized for her ministry to military wives: Faith Deployed. Her passion for the military family was fueled by her own experience as a military wife, and by the dozens of interviews she has conducted with members of the military for her articles and books, Faith Deployed: Daily Encouragement for Military Wives and its sequel, Faith Deployed...Again: More Daily Encouragement for Military Wives. She is also co-author of both Stories of Faith and Courage from the War in Iraq & Afghanistan and Stories of Faith and Courage from the Home Front (forthcoming, May 2012). Her Faith Deployed Web site and Facebook page continue to provide ongoing support, encouragement and resources for military wives worldwide.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When soldier Caitlin McKae woke up in Atlanta after being wounded in battle, the Georgian doctor who treated her believed Caitlin's only secret was that she had been fighting for the Confederacy disguised as a man. In order to avoid arrest or worse, Caitlin hides her true identity and makes a new life for herself in Atlanta. Trained as a teacher, she accepts a job as a governess to the daughter of Noah Becker, a German immigrant lawyer, who is about to enlist with the Rebel army. Then in the spring of 1864, Sherman's troops edge closer to Atlanta. Caitlin tries to escape north with the girl, but is arrested on charges of being a spy. Will honor dictate that Caitlin follow the rules, or love demand that she break them?

Id you would like to read the first chapter of Yankee in Atlanta, go HERE.

A Moment in Time by Tracie Peterson ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

I was so happy to find that this was Alice's story, as she was my absolute favorite character in the previous book in the series.

This book picks up right where the last on left off, with both Alice's troubles, as well in the difficulties that Marty and Jake are facing in Denver. So reading hte first book in the series would probably be a good idea.

It is a bit slow to start, but picks up as soon as they get to Texas.

Robert is a kind-hearted, honest rancher, who knows that ranching is the path he wants to walk for the rest of his life. Another thing he knows is that he doesn't want to marry their neighbor's daughter Jessica, despite everyone's expectations.

Alice meanwhile struggles to forgive after the events of the first book, as well as with her feelings for Robert who everyone says is marrying Jessica.

I really liked how this book really built on Marty and Jake's relationship, because the previous book didn't really give them much interaction.

I think my favorite thing about his book was Robert's relationship with his father, who was a wise man constantly pointing Robert towards God.

Overall, this has a lot to offer with likable character, several intertwining story lines, lots of drama, and good dialogue. I will admit that I was hesitant to pick this on up after being a disappointed with the first book in the series, but I ended up really enjoying it and how it continued to follow the same characters, as well as introducing new ones. A must-read for those who enjoyed the first book in the series.




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

A Place in His Heart by Rebecca DeMarino ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

A sweeping saga beginning in England, 1630 that follows a family on their journey to making The New World their home.
Mary never wanted to leave their small village, but when he father wants her to marry a business associate of his, she chooses the widowed baker, Barnabas, who is the father of two young boys.
While Barnabas finds Mary helpful in running his household and raising his boys, he is determined to remain faithful to the memory of his late wife, Ann. Barnabas decides to takes his family to America for a new start, yet their troubles follow them over the waters.

This is a book that tells of the hardships faced by women following their husbands to The New World. Mary tries to reach out the other women, but what is missing is her family.

Barnabas is hard to like, and even though his intentions were good, and he treats Mary well, there are miles of emotional distance between them. For many reasons this made this book a hard one to read, as it covered the span of ten years, and at times things felt overlong or choppy.

My favorite part of the book though, was the friendship that developed between Mary and Winnie. Winnie is a wise woman, a Corchang Indian who has a deep understanding of spiritual matters, though her faith is new.

In closing, this was not the easiest book for me to get through, but Mary was a heroine well worth cheering for, she is compassionate, patient, resilient in the face of the many trials that tested her faith. And while this book wasn't quite right for me, I found many things worth admiring, and would recommend it to fans of books with a strong heroine.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart by Allie Pleiter ~ CFBA Tour & Review

Lucie's Review: 

Clint is the youngest of the Thornton brothers who joined the Oklahoma land rush. Now Clint is the sheriff of the little town of Brave Rock. A constant menace to the town is a gang known as the Black Four. Clint decides that the best way to catch them is to join them.

Katrine Brinkerhoff and her brother Lars came to America from Denmark to make a better life for themselves. But when Lars finds himself unintentionally tangled up with the Black Four, their homestead is burned down, and to keep Lars safe they must let the Black Four believe him to be dead.

Can their new friend Clint offer the protection that Katrine and her brother need?

This is a great western read, that opens with a dramatic flourish of action. This adventure packed romance also boasts many colorful characters, including Clint's brothers and their wives.

Clint is an admirable hero, who stands up for what is right. Katrine also has a strong faith, and struggles with lying about Lars.

Overall this was a great read, full of interesting characters, and great dialogue. There is intrigue, action, drama, and romance. I would definitely recommend this fantastic read!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart Love Inspired (June 3, 2014) by Allie Pleiter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction. An avid knitter, harp player and non-reformed chocoholic, she spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools and finding new ways to avoid housework. Allie grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in speech from Northwestern University and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The "dare from a friend" to begin writing eight years ago has blossomed into a career that includes numerous public speaking engagements, two books on parenting; Becoming a Chief Home Officer and Facing Every Mom's Fears and now novels for Steeple Hill Books. She is the mother of two children and, most recently, a Havanese dog named Bella.


ABOUT THE BOOK

When Katrine Brinkerhoff's cabin is attacked, only sheriff Clint Thornton's heroism saves her. She owes Clint her life—and her help catching the men responsible. All she has to do is trust in Clint's plan to protect her family. But she can't let herself care too deeply, not when her past carries secrets that would drive him away. 

Infiltrating the murderous gang is a dirty job, yet Clint is determined to see it through. The brigands will face justice—and they will never harm Katrine again. Clint would give his life to keep the beautiful settler safe…but will he be willing to risk his heart? 

Bridegroom Brothers: True love awaits three siblings in the Oklahoma Land Rush

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Lawman's Oklahoma Sweetheart, go HERE.

Seagrass Pier by Colleen Coble ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


An intense suspense story, that quickly drew me into the story, revealing a little at a time, layer by layer of mystery and intermingled story lines.

Marc is an FBI agent investigating the mysterious death of a woman. Elin was the recipient of the woman's heart and can't seem to shake the nightmares she has about the woman's death. Strange things are happening to Elin, yet nobody believes her. Marc used to know Elin many years ago, but when he shows up unexpectedly on her doorstep, he discovers something that he never bargained for...

This book is a great addition to the Hope Beach Series, including many familiar faces from the previous books yet standing securely on its own. There are many diverse characters each adding to the depth  of the story.

This book is very fast paced, with plenty of action and mystery. It is a bit graphic in violence with some mature themes, so I would give a small warning. But this book also has strong heroes, who refuse to cower in fear.

Overall, this was a fantastic book that had me glued to the page. the plot was riveting and thrilling. taunt with suspense and great character interaction and dialogue. A heart pounding book that you won't want to miss!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

About the book: 

In a secluded corner of Hope Beach, one woman must decipher a stranger's memories . . . before they cost her everything.

Elin Summerall was one of the lucky ones. Not only did she get a heart transplant, but the donor was a perfect fit. A miraculously perfect fit.

But when Elin begins having violent flashbacks---and vivid dreams of being strangled---she realizes that she has been the recipient of more than just a new heart . . . Elin is remembering her donor's murder.

Her strange affliction has attracted some unwanted attention: from the press, from the authorities . . . and from the killer himself. Now, living alone with her young daughter and aging mother, Elin is being stalked---by a man she's only met in her nightmares.

The police are dubious of her story, but one off-duty FBI agent is eager to help her: Agent Marc Everton, the father of Elin's daughter.

Of course, he doesn't know about that. Yet.

Now, in a remote cottage on Hope Island, Elin and Marc must probe the secrets buried in her borrowed heart. And there's no time to waste. One man is desperate to silence her---before she remembers too much.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/xAP8O

About the author: 

Colleen Coble has sold over 2 million novels worldwide. Seagrass Pier, the third installment in her acclaimed Hope Beach series, marks a new highpoint for emotion and complexity in Coble's addictive brand of romantic suspense.

Colleen can be found at: website, Twitter, Facebook

Check out all of the other great stops on the tour here: http://litfusegroup.com/author/ccoble

Don’t miss Colleen Coble‘s latest release in the Hope Beach series, Seagrass Pier. The book releases July 1st, and Colleen's publisher is offering the ebook at a special pre-order price of just $4.99 between now and 6/30 everywhere ebooks are sold.

PLUS . . . between 6/9 – 6/30 Colleen will be hosting a Kindle giveaway.

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
• Seagrass Pier and the rest of the Hope Beach series by Colleen Coble

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 30th. Winner will be announced on Colleen's blog on July 1st.

Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning and be sure to stop by Colleen's blog on July 1st to see if you won!

The Hatmaker's Heart by Carla Stewart ~ Litfuse Tour & Review

My Review:


Nell Marchwold dreams of making hats, hats the bring out a woman's true beauty and give her clients confidence. Gifted with an eye for detail and balance, Nell soon begins to shine bright bringing the overbearing attention of her controlling boss. Can Nell find a way to live her dream, when those around her are trying to hold here down?

Nell is a young woman who has a dream. I loved how realistic her character was, because while it may be easy to say that other people should stand up for themselves, it's a lot harder to actually pull together the courage to do it.

Nell is a great main character, with plenty of heart and a strong work ethic. There were many great side characters, one of my favorite being Calvin her dear friend who stayed loyal and supportive no matter what.

This story is different from most in that it is not really a romance or love story, as there is very little interaction between Nell and Quentin, yet it is more of a coming of age or rather, a tale of coming into one's own and finding courage. This story also does a great job of bringing the 1920's to life, showing another side of the glitz and glamour, the hard work that went into making the styles that defined the decade.

Overall this was an utterly wonderful read, that captured my heart. I sympathized with Nell and her plight, wanting her to succeed against the odds. While this was more of a historical character novel, and quite different than I had expected, I found a wonderful tale that I enjoyed from beginning to end.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

About the book: 

For Nell Marchwold, bliss is seeing the transformation when someone gets a glimpse in the mirror while wearing one of her creations and feels beautiful. Nell has always strived to create hats that bring out a woman's best qualities. She knows she's fortunate to have landed a job as an apprentice designer at the prominent Oscar Fields Millinery in New York City. Yet when Nell's fresh designs begin to catch on, her boss holds her back from the limelight, claiming the stammer she's had since childhood reflects poorly on her and his salon.

But it seems Nell's gift won't be hidden by Oscar's efforts. Soon an up-and-coming fashion designer is seeking her out as a partner of his 1922 collection. The publicity leads to an opportunity for Nell to make hats in London for a royal wedding. There, she sees her childhood friend, Quentin, and an unexpected spark kindles between them. But thanks to her success, Oscar is determined to keep her. As her heart tugs in two directions, Nell must decide what she is willing to sacrifice for her dream, and what her dream truly is.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/xlicl

About the author: 

Carla Stewart is the award-winning author of four novels. With a passion for times gone by, it is her desire to take readers back to that warm, familiar place in their hearts called "home." She and her husband live in Tulsa and have four adult sons and six grandchildren (with one on the way!). 

Carla can be found at: website, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest,Goodreads

Check out all of the other great stops on this tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/cstewart

Carla Stewart‘s latest novel, The Hatmaker’s Heart is already a favorite with her readers.  Carla is celebrating the release with a fun Jazzy Hatmaker’s Heart giveaway. Click for details and to enter.

Lone Star Heiress by Winnie Griggs ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

When Ivy Feagan's mule turns up lame on the way to Turnabout, Texas she finds herself alone and forced to trust the gentle giant that comes to her aid.
Mitch offers her a place to stay and collect herself, as well as aid in getting to Turnabout and onto her feet again, but he is convince that they could never have a future together because of his dark past...

Mitch is a wonderful hero, willing to put Ivy first and take care of her in every way, with propriety being a huge priority. I loved how he was respectful of her, and went out of his way to make sure her reputation was spotless.

But Ivy is my favorite. She is ever hopeful and sees God's will and providence in everything that happens even if it seems bad. She is selfless and would do anything to make her Nana's life better.

This book engages quickly and keeps a steady pace. There is a great cast of characters, including all of the previous couples showing how they found love and friendship when they came to Turnabout. A great addition to a fun series!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Sunflower Award from Amber!

Thank you so much for this award Amber @ http://seasonsofhumility.blogspot.com

Apologies in advance for the quality of the video. Thank you!

11 QUESTIONS:

What are planning on reading this summer?
 What book are you dying to read?
 What TV show are you most excited to have return?
 What surprising talent do you possess?
 What was the last book you read?
 What book (besides the Bible) would you recommend to have everyone in the world read?
 Where is your favorite place to read?
 What is your biggest fear when going shopping?
 Do you like ebooks?
 What is your favorite book genre?
 What is your favorite childhood book that you still love today?

I would like to pass on this award to...

 Kara @ A BookLover's Heart - http://karathewriter.blogspot.com/
 Christy @ Southern Sassy Things - http://southernsassythings.blogspot.com/
 Renee @ Black 'n Gold Girl's Book Spot - http://steelergirl83.blogspot.com/
 Dawn Janis @ Dawn's Dreams - http://dawnsdreams.blogspot.com/
 Rosie @ The Writings of Rosie - http://writingsofrosie.blogspot.com/
 Sarah Elizabeth @ oh, restless bird - http://www.ohrestlessbird.com/
 Cathy @ Thoughts on Books - http://thoughtsonbookss.blogspot.com/

And anyone else who would like to do this great tag :)

Somebody Like You by Beth K. Vogt ~ Review

My Review:

Stephen Ames and his twin brother Sam were inseparable through many of their childhood years, until their parents divorced and they felt they had to take sides. It's been twelve years. Sam died overseas in Afghanistan leaving behind his wife, Haley, and unknowingly his unborn child.
Haley doesn't know what to think when Stephen shows up on her doorstep, the spitting image of her late husband Sam, did the government make a mistake? Haley wants nothing to do with Stephen, but Stephen is determined to help Haley get ready for the arrival of her and Sam's child.

Can Stephen and Haley help each other heal ?

I loved this book! Read it a little more than 5 hrs, and found it pretty much impossible to put down. I loved Haley and Stephen from the very beginning, they were fantastic main characters that I found it easy to cheer for all the way through to the end. I liked how the author used Stephen and Haley to introduce Sam to the readers, letting us know him through Haley and Stephen, two people who had seen two different sides of him.

The character development was natural and engaging. I loved watching Stephen and Haley learn to trust each other and become friends. Ms. Vogt did and amazing job drawing them together.

Overall this was just a fantastic read. I loved everything about it! From the stellar plot and characters, to the humor and also the depth of emotion that the characters go through. Throughout this book, even though it deals with some very tough things, there was always just a general spark of hope peeking around the corner. Highly recommend :)


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."