Tag Archives: Contemporary romance

#BookReview: Courting Mr. Emerson by Melody Carlson

25 Mar

With a penchant for quirky characters, Melody Carlson once again treats readers to an entertaining story with an eclectic cast. The uniqueness of Courting Mr. Emerson is not only found in its characters, but also in their stories. While I would have appreciated a bit more depth in some aspects of the storyline, I did find it to be an enjoyable read overall.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

When the fun-loving and spontaneous artist Willow West meets buttoned-up, retired English teacher George Emerson, it’s not exactly love at first sight. Though she does find the obsessive-compulsive man intriguing. Making it her mission to get him to loosen up and embrace life, she embarks on what seems like a lost cause–and finds herself falling for him in the process.

A confirmed bachelor, George vacillates between irritation and attraction whenever Willow is around–which to him seems like all too often. He’s not interested in expanding his horizons or making new friends; it just hurts too much when you lose them.

But as the summer progresses, George feels his defenses crumbling. The question is, will his change of heart be too late for Willow?

Learn more about the book and the author.

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Love Inspired #BlogTour, #BookReview, and #Sweepstakes!

15 May

I have long enjoyed the Love Inspired line of books and am excited to be sharing a few of their recent releases as well as their blog tour sweepstakes!  For those who aren’t familiar with Love Inspired, they release twelve new books each month; six books for those who love contemporary romance and six books for those who enjoy some danger with their romance.  “Feel comforted and at peace when you read these uplifting romances of faith, forgiveness, and hope.”  

 

The Wedding Quilt Bride
by Marta Perry

Widowed single mom Rebecca Mast returns to her Amish community hoping to open a quilt shop. She accepts carpenter Daniel King’s offer of assistance—but she isn’t prepared for the bond he forms with her son. Will getting closer expose her secret—or reveal the love she has in her heart for her long-ago friend?

 

The Rancher’s Secret Child
by Brenda Minton

Marcus Palermo’s simple life gets complicated when he meets the son he never knew he had—and his beautiful guardian. Lissa Hart thought she’d only stick around long enough to aid Marcus in becoming a dad—but could her happily-ever-after lie with the little boy and the rugged rancher?

 

Bound by Duty
by Valerie Hansen

When Sgt. Linc Colson is assigned to monitor Zoe Sullivan and determine if she’s secretly aiding her fugitive serial killer brother, his instincts tell him she’s not in league with the criminal—she’s in danger. It’s up to him and his K-9 partner, Star, to keep the pretty single mom alive.

 

Primary Suspect
by Laura Scott

Framed for the murder of his ex-girlfriend—and then attacked at the crime scene—fire investigator Mitch Callahan turns to ER nurse Dana Petrie for help. As they fight for their lives, can she be convinced of his innocence—and in his promise of love?

 

My thoughts:

Primary Suspect is an exciting tale of suspense and romance! Rife with drama and danger, the tension builds as Mitch and Dana’s story unfolds. Although Primary Suspect is the fifth book in Laura Scott’s Callahan Confidential series, it is the first one I have enjoyed, and I look forward to reading more.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

One winner will WIN a $100 VISA card!  

Click the graphic below to enter the sweepstakes!

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#BookReview: Pelican Point by Irene Hannon

30 Apr

Pelican Point is a heartwarming tale! I enjoyed Marci’s and Ben’s story and the hope and healing that resonate through their journey. Irene Hannon brings to life an idyllic seaside setting and an endearing cast of characters. It is always a pleasure to visit Hope Harbor and its residents, and I especially delight in Charley. The wisdom he dishes up with his tacos adds to the charm of each Hope Harbor story. Pelican Point left me smiling and looking forward to my next visit to this special coastal community!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

A crumbling lighthouse is not part of the inheritance Army doctor Ben Garrison expects to claim when he journeys to Hope Harbor. Fresh out of the service, he wants only to unload the tower of bricks, decompress from years of treating battlefield trauma, and prepare to launch his civilian career.

Hope Harbor Herald editor Marci Weber has other ideas. She may not be a Hope Harbor native, but the small Oregon seaside town has become home–and she’s determined to save the Pelican Point landmark.

Sparks fly as the two go head to head over the fate of the lighthouse. But when they start to cooperate, a different kind of fire ignites. And as they work together, might Hope Harbor heal the hearts of these two romance-wary souls?

Learn more about the book and the author. 

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#BookReview + Movie Premiere: Runaway Romance by Miralee Ferrell

6 Jan

I really enjoyed this unique and charming romance! When a reality television actress finds herself in a Kentucky Amish inn, an unexpected journey of self-discovery begins for both Annie and Hunter. Runaway Romance is a cleverly crafted story and sure to be a delightful TV movie!

Read the book–> http://amzn.to/2F39kNe
Watch the trailer–> http://bit.ly/2lXLZEd

Runaway Romance premieres on UP TV on Sunday, January 7 at 7 pm ET and will air again at the same time on Sunday, January 14.  UP TV is available through the following providers.

DISH: Channel 188
DIRECTV: Channel 338
AT&T: Channels 369/1369
TWC: Channel 124

 

About the book:

Ann Stanway had it all—a starring role in a reality show, an adoring boyfriend, and a sparkling future with limitless possibilities. Until the rules changed and the life she’d thought was real no longer existed. Leaving L.A. seems like her only option, and she lands in Kentucky at a quiet Amish inn—as far removed from her past as possible. Now she knows what was missing in her life–peace, true friendship and, dare she hope, a man who accepts her for who she is–or at least who he thinks she is.

Hunter Lewis is intrigued by the new woman staying at his friend’s Amish inn. Annie appears to be what she claims, but she’s secretive and won’t open up. He’s been burned by a woman before and can’t tolerate deception. But his interest in Annie is growing, and the attraction seems to be mutual—until something happens that makes Hunter question everything he’d thought was real. Dare he risk his heart, when he’s certain Annie is keeping secrets?

Can their new romance withstand the pressure, or will Ann choose to run again?

I received a complimentary copy of this e-book.  No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.  

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#BookReview: All This Time by Melissa Tagg

29 Sep

All This Time is a story I’ve anticipated since the moment Raegan and Bear appeared on the page. Beautifully rendered, their emotional journey is tender and touching and not soon to be forgotten! Tagg’s characterization is exceptional, as she has crafted a fictional family that very much comes to life in the mind of the reader. I love the charm of Maple Valley and revel in the Walker’s camaraderie! While I lament the end of this wonderful series, it is certain to remain one of my very favorites.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Bear McKinley’s past refuses to let go.

Ten years ago, Bear gave up everything-his freedom and his reputation-for his mess of a family. But after years of distance and too many attempts at starting over, he finally has a new life doing noble work in Brazil . . . until his past catches up to him once again. Suddenly he finds himself back in Maple Valley, charged with the care of his missing brother’s children, convinced he’s out of second chances to make his life count. And yet, with every day that passes, these kids, this quirky town and the woman he never stopped missing help patch the holes in his heart. Maybe this is the fresh start he’s been longing for all along. But as his newfound hope grows, so does the mystery surrounding his brother’s activities-and when the threat reaches into the lives of those he loves, it’s clear he can’t run away this time.

Fear holds Raegan’s future captive.

Raegan Walker is fine. She’s happy working a slew of part-time jobs, still living in her childhood bedroom and rarely venturing from her hometown. At least, that’s what she tells everyone . . . and herself. But she can’t help wondering what might’ve happened if she hadn’t abandoned her art so many years ago-and if Bear McKinley had never left. When Bear returns and she’s commissioned for a painting that just might revive her artistic ambition all in one week, it’s time to finally reach for more than fine. But doing so means facing the fears that have held her back all this time, including admitting the secret she’s kept from Bear and her family. With her dream and her heart on the line, how much will Raegan have to risk to finally chase her happy ending?

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: The Two of Us by Victoria Bylin

18 Sep

The Two of Us is a tender and touching tale! From family dynamics to Alzheimer’s care, Victoria Bylin deftly portrays her characters and their emotions. I delighted in Mia’s and Jake’s journey, as well as the secondary story between Sam and Lucy. Hope-filled and heartfelt, I thoroughly enjoyed The Two of Us!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

After two broken engagements, nurse practitioner Mia Robinson is done with dating. From now on, she only trusts herself and God, and she’s focused on her eighteen-year-old sister, Lucy, and caring for patients. Just as she applies to work for an international aid organization, a phone call from Lucy, who’s pregnant and running off to marry her twenty-one-year-old boyfriend, throws a wrench into all of Mia’s plans.

Jake Tanner may have recovered from the physical injuries he sustained on the job as a police officer, but his heart has yet to heal from losing his former partner in the tragedy. He’s poured himself into starting a camp for the sons of fallen officers and mentoring Sam, the adult son of his deceased partner, who’s asked him to be his best man at his wedding.

Mia is expecting a mess when she arrives to sort out the situation with Lucy, but she wasn’t expecting Jake. And Jake, who can’t help envying Sam and Lucy, doubts he’ll ever experience their happiness for himself. But maybe Jake’s courage and Mia’s caring spirit are just what they need to bring them a lifetime of healing and a forever kind of love. . . .

Learn more about the book and the author.

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Spotlight + #Giveaway: Season of Hope by Alexa Verde

10 Aug

Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/2uKf5cy

Kelly Young wants to heal after losing her husband and to raise her little girl the best she can in her hometown. But her new neighbor, former wide receiver Brandon Carmichael, seems to intend to demolish his fixer-upper and her hopes for peace and quiet. When he helps her to repair her home, keeps her flower shop business afloat, and makes her hope and love again, could it be that Brandon is exactly what she needs?

After a forced retirement, Brandon Carmichael is angry and lost, one step away from the familiar path of self-destruction. Moving to a small town at his friend’s suggestion, Brandon surprises himself by getting involved in its community and starting to fall for his pretty neighbor, single mom Kelly Young. But when his past collides with his present, can he forgive, love, and live fully again?

 

Thanks to the generosity of Alexa Verde, one lucky commenter will win a Kindle copy of Season of Hope and a $5.00 Amazon gift card!  

Prizes will be gifted through Amazon, so commenters must have an Amazon account.

To enter the giveaway:
Leave a comment letting us know where you stand on fixer-upper projects.  The giveaway ends Thursday, August 17 at midnight CDT. The winner will be chosen and announced on Friday, August 18.

To earn additional entries:
Follow this blog and/or share the giveaway. Be sure to let me know what you’ve done to earn additional entries! This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

Contest Rules:
◦No purchase is necessary.
◦Odds of winning are based on the number of entries.

Are you a do-it-yourselfer or do you leave projects to the professionals?  Do you have a fixer-upper story to share?    

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#BookReview: A Matter of Trust by Susan May Warren

5 Jul

A Matter of Trust is an action-packed adventure! Susan May Warren sweeps readers away to Glacier National Park and shares the beauty and brutality that can be found atop its rugged mountain peaks. Gage Watson is a great hero, working hard to forge a new path for himself and his career. I really enjoyed Gage’s courage and determination and the central theme of trust that carries through his and Ella’s journey.

With dramatic stories of risk and romance, it is always a pleasure to revisit the PEAK Rescue team. Warren has brought to life a dynamic cast of characters whose camaraderie is tangible, and I eagerly await their next adventure!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Champion backcountry snowboarder Gage Watson has left the limelight behind after the death of one of his fans. After being sued for negligence and stripped of his sponsorships, he’s remade his life as a ski patrol in Montana’s rugged mountains, as well as serving on the PEAK Rescue team. But he can’t seem to find his footing–or forget the woman he loved, who betrayed him.

Senator and former attorney Ella Blair spends much of her time in the limelight as the second-youngest senator in the country. But she has a secret–one that cost Gage his career. More than anything, she wants to atone for her betrayal of him in the courtroom and find a way to help him put his career back on track.

When Ella’s brother goes missing on one of Glacier National Park’s most dangerous peaks, Gage and his team are called in for the rescue. But Gage isn’t so sure he wants to help the woman who destroyed his life. More, when she insists on joining the search, he’ll have to keep her safe while finding her reckless brother, a recipe for disaster when a snowstorm hits the mountain.

But old sparks relight as they search for the missing snowboarder–and suddenly, they are faced with emotions neither can deny. But when Ella’s secret is revealed, can they learn to trust each other–even when disaster happens again?

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: Peace in the Valley by Ruth Logan Herne

5 Jun

Peace in the Valley is a great conclusion to the Double S Ranch series! I have enjoyed each of the Stafford stories, and Trey’s tale is my favorite of the bunch. I delighted in the pairing of a successful country crooner with an overwhelmed single mother. Their relationship is entertaining and romantic, and one that beautifully illustrates the importance of faith, love, and forgiveness. While Peace in the Valley can stand alone, I believe fans of cowboy romance will enjoy reading all three books in this heartwarming series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

In spite of their differences, Trey Walker Stafford knows he owes his life to cowboy and legendary rancher Sam Stafford—the uncle who rescued him after his parents’ death. Trey had left the Double S Ranch to pursue music against Sam’s wishes, but returns to central Washington when he learns he’s the best match for a procedure that could save Sam’s life. Although Trey’s found country music fame and success, he’s also endured the tragic loss of his wife. He croons about love, but struggles with a yawning emptiness he can’t explain.

Overwhelmed by a growing list of challenges, but mistrustful of Stafford men, single mother Lucy Carlton reluctantly accepts Trey’s help to revive her crumbling farm when Sam instructs him to repay the overdue debt to her family.

As the two grow closer, Trey slowly begins to open his heart to this beautiful woman and strives to let go of the grief he’s held for years. Lucy has a complicated history of her own. Can Trey accept her as she is, learn to forgive the past, and find the elusive peace he’s sought for so long?

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: What Hope Remembers by Johnnie Alexander

18 May

It was such a pleasure to return to the community of Misty Willow! Having read the first two books in this series, I was eager to discover more about Amy Somers and delve deeper into her story. I enjoyed Amy’s rekindled relationship with Gabe Kendall and the navigation of their dramatic journey. I also enjoyed revisiting beloved characters from previous stories. Heartfelt and emotional, What Hope Remembers is a lovely addition to a charming series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

When Amy Somers loses her job as a lobbyist, she moves to Misty Willow, well aware that she’s crossing bridges she’d burned years before. With all the mistakes she’s made and the uncaring things she’s done–even to her own family–she can hardly believe that happiness will find her, especially when Gabe Kendall, her first crush and her first kiss, rides back into her life atop a buckskin mare.

A former Marine, Gabe is at loose ends after serving a prison sentence for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. He sees beyond Amy’s hard exterior to the girl he once knew and loved, and he longs to see her open her heart. Yet with his vision clouded by shame for his past and fears about the future, he finds it difficult to see the path ahead.

But the memory of that long-ago kiss just may have the power to reignite a romance that brings out the best in both of them.

Purchase a copy of What Hope Remembers.

Visit Johnnie Alexander’s website.

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