The Veteran's Vow by Jill Lynn // Review

Lucie's Review: 

After receiving a TBI while serving his country, Behr returns home but can his biggest fear be the answer to his healing? 

An engaging and heartwarming romance with wonderful characters and a plot that does a great job of pulling the characters together despite their own plans. Ellery thinks that she can find a dog to help Behr, and I liked that she was understanding and didn't push him too much. I liked how they bonded over their faith, and helping Ellery's nephew as well. 

I think that one of my favorite things was the give and take of the friendship between Ellery and Behr. His family is welcoming and wonderful, I especially liked his father.

Overall, such a wonderful heartwarming read with great characters, pacing and engaging plot. Probably my favorite by this author so far!

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

Like the Wind by Robin Lee Hatcher // Review

My Review: 

Six years after a terrible divorce that upended her life, Olivia Ward's life is once again upturned when she learns that she will receive custody of her daughter Emma, whom she has not seen for years. Will she be able to reconnect with her daughter despite the years apart?

A heartfelt and faith filled read about a mother and daughter's reunion, as well as the tale of a young mother 100 years before and her struggles through the unknowns trying to hold her family together during the Depression. 

A lovely story with heartfelt characters, struggling to do the right thing and make sense of where they are at. I loved Millie's journal entries, at first they seemed to no have anything to do with the main story but as the story progressed the connection was more clear. Tyler is a great guy, who finds himself caught between duty and his growing friendship with Olivia and Emma. 

Overall, this was an enjoyable smalltown read set in a few places that may be familiar if you are a fan of Robin Lee Hatcher like I am. I liked the honesty of the characters, they were flawed, but easy to cheer for just the same. I especially liked the strong message of faith and trusting God through the storms. 

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

Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer // Review

Review: A delightful fairy tale re-telling with a Texas twist!

Orphaned at a young age, for Penelope Snow her growing beauty has always been something of a misfortune. Texas Ranger Titus Kingsley is more than a little suspicious of the young woman who has taken up residence with 7 rough and tumble old cowpokes, as he investigates a string of thieving. 

A charming read from beginning to end, I loved the characters especially the old cowhands with their various defining qualities and tender heart towards Penelope's plight. Such a fun read that brought a smile to my face, I loved Penelope and Titus together. I really enjoyed seeing Ms. Witemeyer's take on a classic tale, bringing it out west and making it her own, infusing it with a strong core of faith. 

Overall, this was a wonderful read, it brought a smile to my face and I liked Penelope's heart for others. A compelling read with a fairy tale twist, it makes for a cozy escape, entertaining, engaging, filled with romance and not shying away from faith. Highly recommend, and can't wait to read more in this series!

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

Pick up your own copy today: https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/492071 

Beauty Reborn by Elizabeth Lowham // Review

My Review: 

A stunning re-telling that for me was the perfect blend of staying true to the original while turning it on its head. 

Beauty is a young woman who uses her words and wit brazenly, as well as to fill the silence making light of life's trials, disguising a life shattered by an event that haunts her. This is a beautiful re-telling of a classic tale, I loved how it captures the classic tale, while digging deeper and even though I know the original well, it kept me guessing how it would end.

 The lovely prose flows through the book, weaving a captivating tale perfect for lovers of fairy tales. It also deals excellently with the topic of sexual assault in a sensitive but powerful way, that would be appropriate in my mind for teen readers. 

Beauty is a flawed character, who is clever but not always compassionate, thoughtlessly flaunting her wit, but my heart still went out for her because despite all of her bravado it is a cover for her true heart. I liked how the beast challenged her way of thinking with his quiet ways. 

Overall, I devoured this well written re-telling of one of my favorite stories, I haven't read a book so quickly in a long time, and I didn't want it to end. I honestly wouldn't change a thing about this lovely re-telling, and hope to read more similar books from this author in the future!

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

Something Old, Something New by Amy Clipston // Review

My Review: 

Her whole life Christine has been compared to her twin, Brittany, but she has carved out her own  niche with her antique mall. Meanwhile, Brent returns home with his future unclear to help his great-aunt Midge remodel her home so that she can sell. Will Christine and Brent let the past and their current insecurities take away their chance for a future together? 

A sweet and engaging tale with endearing characters. I especially liked how Aunt Midge was so supportive of Brent and Christine throughout. I liked how Christine encouraged Brent to follow his dreams, as well as her appreciation for treasures from the past. My heart went out to her for how tough her younger years were to be compared to her sister, and I admired how she gave Brent a chance to tell his side of the story. 

Overall, this was a charming read filled with compelling characters and plenty of heart. A wonderful standalone read!

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

The Long March Home by Marcus Brotherton and Tosca Lee // Review

My Review: 

A gripping novel of brotherhood and coming of age on the Bataan Death March. 

Jimmy Propfield is a young man stationed in the Philippines with his two best friends, Billy and Hank, when the US enters WWII. Together they fight for survival on the deadly march. 

A story of friendship and war, the book is told through the eyes of Jimmy as he endures unspeakable ordeals alongside his friends, while memories from back home give him a reason to make it home. The style of storytelling worked well for this particular story, infusing context into the complex characters relationships, and the memories were a welcome reprieve from the harder to read parts, and together it was amazing. I couldn't help but love the juxtaposed character that was Hank Wright, with his bravado, impulsive bravery, and loyalty to his friends in the most unimaginable situations where no one would have blames him if he'd acted selfishly. 

Overall, this was a powerful read with complex characters and masterful storytelling that captures the tension, and weight of their youth, as well as bright glimmers of hope in the darkest times. A tremendous story that you won't soon forget. 

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

The Pursuit of Miss Parish by Grace Hitchcock // Review

My Review: A charming and adventure filled romance, filled with faith and friendship. 

Belle Parish is ready to make a fresh start, answering the letter of a cowboy in search of a mail-order bride. But when she arrives things that Colt wrote to her about don't seem to match the man that he appears to be, so she calls the wedding off and signs on as a Harvey Girl. 

Belle is a likable and capable young woman, I liked that she holds herself to high standards and quickly proves herself a hard worker. I was glad that she found true friends in Angelique and Harriet who supported her throughout. Even though Colt isn't who he appears to be, I did like that he wants to do better and prove himself to Belle, fighting for her not knowing who she would choose. 

Engaging and well-paced, with a courageous heroine in this action filled western romance. Enjoyable from beginning to end, this book has a full cast of characters, with strong themes of second chances, faith and friendship. I loved the slight connection to the previous book in the series and returning characters, though this book could definitely be read as a standalone. I'm excited to read the next book in the series!

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

Get your copy HERE

Millstone of Doubt by Erica Vetsch // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Daniel and Juliette team up again to solve a mystery, with her best friend, Agatha's livelihood hanging in the balance after the murder of her father. 

A great addition to the series bringing Juliette and Daniel together again, this is an engaging read that works well especially if you have read the first book in the series. I liked that Juliette was a faithful friend to Agatha, supporting her through all of it. It was also great that this book progresses Juliette and Daniel's friendship, and gives hints of a possible outcome. 

Engaging and well paced, this was a great sequel that held its own full of intrigue with great tension as they race against the clock. I'm definitely excited to see what's next for Daniel and Juliette in their work and relationship!

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

The Bark of Zorro by Kathleen Y'Barbo // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

 

Book: The Bark of Zorro

Author: Kathleen Y’Barbo

Genre: Christian/Cozy Mystery/Romance Fiction

Release date: April, 2023

Who Is Spray Painting the Dogs in Brenham, Texas?

Strange happenings are afoot in Brenham, Texas, as dogs start showing up at the Lone Star Veterinary Clinic with a Z spray painted on them. The cops blame pranksters, while pet owners are blaming each other. Receptionist Cassidy Carter uses her social media expertise to try to get the culprit caught on camera, but Texas game warden, Jason, thinks online media attention is the last thing this case needs. When Cassidy’s post goes viral, more dogs are found painted and the clinic gets marked with a big Z too. How could her good intentions have backfired so badly?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review: When dogs start showing up with a strange marking painted on them, Cassidy is determined to get to the bottom of it. 

A fast paced cozy mystery, with an engaging plot and wonderful characters. I loved seeing the familiar faces from previous books, as well as meeting Jason a game warden who helps Cassidy with the case. It was fun seeing Jason and Cassidy's chemistry in front of the camera, as well as how well they work together despite their differing opinions. 

An enjoyable book from beginning to end, filled with action, mystery, and adventure. Such a fun read, with great characters, and a riveting plot that kept me guessing throughout. Definitely worth picking up!

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

About the Author

Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee and bestselling author of more than one hundred books with over two million copies of her books in print in the US and abroad. A tenth-generation Texan and certified paralegal, she is a member of the Texas Bar Association Paralegal Division, Texas A&M Association of Former Students and the Texas A&M Women Former Students (Aggie Women), Texas Historical Society, Novelists Inc., and American Christian Fiction Writers. She would also be a member of the Daughters of the American Republic, Daughters of the Republic of Texas and a few others if she would just remember to fill out the paperwork that Great Aunt Mary Beth has sent her more than once.

When she’s not spinning modern day tales about her wacky Southern relatives, Kathleen inserts an ancestor or two into her historical and mystery novels as well. Recent book releases include bestselling The Pirate Bride set in 1700s New Orleans and Galveston, its sequel The Alamo Bride set in 1836 Texas, which feature a few well-placed folks from history and a family tale of adventure on the high seas and on the coast of Texas. She also writes (mostly) relative-free cozy mystery novels for Guideposts Books.

Kathleen and her hero in combat boots husband have their own surprise love story that unfolded on social media a few years back. They make their home just north of Houston, Texas and are the parents and in-laws of a blended family of Texans, Okies, and one very adorable Londoner.

 

More from Kathleen

MEET BAXTER: LIFE THROUGH THE EYES OF A SCHNAUZER

Recently I’ve been working on a series of cozy mystery novels set in a veterinary clinic in Brenham, Texas. I love Brenham. It’s one of my favorite cities and I’m thankful that it’s very near to me. Without Brenham, there would be no Blue Bell ice cream.

But I digress.

While preparing for the release of the fourth book in the series, The Bark of Zorro, I thought about what drew me to writing this series, other than ice cream, of course. It didn’t take me long to realize it was the dogs. During the course of the series there are fancy pets and sassy strays, but they all have one thing in common: they steal our hearts.

Let me tell you about a pup that stole my heart.

Meet Baxter.

Baxter has very little stress beyond whether his water bowl stays full, his food bowl is consistently replenished, and his trips outside are not withheld. In short–which he is–Baxter is a low maintenance guy, er dog.

He makes our house a home and gives us ears to scratch and a built-in vacuum cleaner to handle any kitchen messes that reach the floor.

Unfortunately, this fellow has one rather annoying habit. He likes to walk a half-step ahead of me while looking back to be sure I am following. Not the best way to make progress of any kind. In fact, life would be much less complicated if Baxter would just let me do the leading while he does the following.

I said this recently. Aloud. Yes, to a Miniature Schnauzer. And as the words left my mouth, I was struck with the thought that maybe I am guilty of the same thing.

How many times have I gotten ahead of God only to realize He wasn’t having any of it? How many more times did I think I knew exactly where God was going–or what He was going to do–only to realize I was nowhere near close in my guess? Just as Baxter –who has appointed himself guardian of our home– sometimes barks when there’s nothing there, I too, let nothing (in the form of fear, worry, angst, or just plain imagination) grab my attention and hold it.

Here’s something else about Baxter: he’s small. Eleven pounds soaking wet small, to be precise. So small, my husband has to be careful where he steps lest he accidentally squash the poor pup with his size 13 shoes.

Though we’re physical much larger than my Baxter, I cam certainly relate to that feeling of being easily overlooked. Have you ever felt small? Really, really small? The kind of small where someone could walk right past and not even notice you?

Maybe it’s the people in your world who just don’t seem to know you’re there. Or it’s a goal you’ve long since given up accomplishing because it seems there are so many others doing it already.

Life can be that way. It’s all enough to make a person want to fade into the wallpaper or hide behind a potted plant. To make us feel as though we’re not at home, even when we are home.

I know that feeling. As a writer of Christian fiction for twenty years, I have been blessed to have sold more than two million copies of my more than one hundred novels, novellas, and nonfiction books. That’s anything but small. And yet when I look at all the amazing things that others have done, compare myself to others, well…small is exactly how I sometimes feel.

There’s just one remedy for that. Stop comparing! I’m a work in progress on this issue, but Baxter has this skill mastered. There are no comparisons in the Miniature Schnauzer world—something I could definitely learn.

Baxter has another side to him, a loyal and faithful side that I adore. Where I am, Baxter wants to be. My return from a brief trip away sends him into a crazy dance of joy that requires several rooms of the house to adequately perform. My presence is his source of joy and comfort.

So, the thought struck me: what if I looked at my relationship with God like that? What if I found contentment and joy merely in resting in his presence? What if I followed Him rather than leading?  What if my home was filled with the evidence that God was not just welcome here but adored. What if…

I learned something years ago about this journey called the Christian life. The more I learn about the Lord, the more I realize how much I do not know and how very far away from any sort of perfection I am. That knowledge is sobering. Humbling.

And yet it is encouraging.

I wish you could all meet Baxter. But since you can’t check out The Bark of Zorro and the other books in the Gone to the Dogs series to meet our cast of fancy pets and sassy strays. I think you’ll like them and their humans. But then what’s not to like about a handsome game warden, a red-haired office manager with a penchant for her word-of-the-day calendar and the rest of the Lone Star Vet Clinic crew? Check them out and you’ll see!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky’s Book Impressions, April 26

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 27

Cover Lover Book Review, April 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 28

Vicky Sluiter, April 29

Lily’s Book Reviews, April 30

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 1

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, May 1

Texas Book-aholic, May 2

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, May 3

The Book Club Network, May 3

Remembrancy, May 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 5

Blogging With Carol, May 6

Debs book review, May 6

For Him and My Family, May 7

Mary Hake, May 7

Holly’s Book Corner, May 8

Splashes of Joy, May 8

Pause for Tales, May 9

Labor Not in Vain, May 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathleen is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a print copy of the book!!

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/25add/the-bark-of-zorro-celebration-tour-giveaway

In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer // Review

About the Book:
Maggie inherited a gift from her time-crossing parents that allows her to live three separate lives in 1861, 1941, and 2001. Each night she goes to sleep in one time period and wakes up in another. Until, that is, she turns twenty-one, when she will have to forfeit two of those lives--and everyone she knows in them--forever.

In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of an influential senator at the outbreak of the Civil War, navigating a capital full of Southern spies and wounded soldiers. In 1941, she is a Navy nurse, grappling with her knowledge of the future when she's asked to join a hospital ship being sent to Pearl Harbor. And in 2001, she's a brilliant young medical student, fulfilling her dream of becoming a surgeon, yet unable to use her modern skills in her other paths.

While Maggie has sworn off romance until she makes her final choice, an intriguing man tugs at her heart in each era. The mysterious British gentleman. The prickly, demanding doctor. The charming young congressman. She's drawn to each man in different ways, only complicating the impossible decision she must make, which looms ever closer.

With so much on the line, how can Maggie choose just one life to keep and the rest to lose?

Purchase your copy here: https://amzn.to/3p82gKK

My Review:

 Immersive and thought provoking, this riveting tale of a woman living in three separate timelines is a captivatingly compelling read, that had me gripping the pages until the very end. 

A stunning follow up to When the Day Comes, it can easily be read as a standalone. I loved this book so much, that I kind of read it more slowly than usual because I just didn't want it to be over too soon, as it eventually was. Maggie is a hardworking young woman determined to make the most of her time in each era that she has been given, using her gifts to help others. I liked her respect for her gift, as well as her devotion to her family in each era, as well as the friends and family that knowing her secret support her every step of the way. 

I loved how the author brought each of the time periods to life, each compelling in their own way I would be hard pressed to choose a favorite. I also liked how this book explores questions of trusting God with the future, as well as our free will, and using our gifts. The author did an amazing job handling the romances in each timeline, each man was intriguing in a different way, and spoiler--I love how it turned out!

Overall, easily one of my favorite reads this year, I don't think I can do this amazing book justice as I loved it so much cover to cover, I wouldn't change a thing and I can't wait to read the next book in the series, next year cannot come soon enough! Compelling storytelling, weaving together 3 distinctive time periods into a compelling novel of faith, love, and courage, HIGHLY recommend!

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

Link to giveaway: 

Here