Tag Archives: Romance

#BookReview: Almost Home by Valerie Fraser Luesse

25 Mar

Almost Home is a tender tale that transports readers to Blackberry Springs, Alabama, amid World War II. The time period and setting are vividly portrayed, as is the community that surrounds Dolly Chandler’s family home. The cast of characters is delightfully engaging, and I was moved by their individual stories and struggles. Their heartache and healing bring emotional depth to this sweet, southern story, and its lyrical writing makes it a pleasure to read. I thoroughly enjoyed Almost Home and look forward to reading more from Valerie Fraser Luesse.

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

 

About the book:

With America’s entrance into the Second World War, the town of Blackberry Springs, Alabama, has exploded virtually overnight. Workers from all over are coming south for jobs in Uncle Sam’s munitions plants–and they’re bringing their pasts with them, right into Dolly Chandler’s grand but fading family home turned boardinghouse.

An estranged young couple from the Midwest, unemployed professors from Chicago, a widower from Mississippi, a shattered young veteran struggling to heal from the war–they’re all hoping Dolly’s house will help them find their way back to the lives they left behind. But the house has a past of its own.

When tragedy strikes, Dolly’s only hope will be the circle of friends under her roof and their ability to discover the truth about what happened to a young bride who lived there a century before.

Learn more about the book and the author.  

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#BookReview: Mending Fences by Suzanne Woods Fisher

20 Feb

Mending Fences is a heartwarming tale! Suzanne Woods Fisher never fails to delight me with her endearing characters and unique storylines, and this latest story is no exception. Luke’s and Izzy’s journeys are complex and emotional, and I reveled in the wisdom they shared and the lessons they learned. I thoroughly enjoyed this first Deacon’s Family novel and look forward to continuing the series!

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

 

About the book:

Luke Schrock is a new and improved man after a stint in rehab, though everyone in Stoney Ridge only remembers the old Luke. They might have forgiven him, but nobody trusts him.

Amos and Fern Lapp allow Luke to live at Windmill Farm under two conditions. First, Luke must make a sincere apology to each person he’s hurt–a four-page, single-spaced list. Second, he must ask each victim of mischief to describe the damage he caused.

Simple, Luke thinks. Offering apologies is easy. But discovering the lasting effects his careless actions have caused . . . that isn’t so simple. It’s gut-wrenching.

And his list keeps growing. Izzy Miller, beautiful and frustratingly aloof, also boards at Windmill Farm. Luke’s clumsy efforts to befriend Izzy only insult and annoy her. Eager to impress, Luke sets out to prove himself to her by locating her mother. When he does, her identity sends shock waves through Stoney Ridge.

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: Light My Fire by Susan May Warren

21 Jun

Light My Fire is a page-turning novella! I loved the Alaskan setting and was delighted by the tie-in to the Montana Fire series. Tucker and Stevie’s adrenaline-fueled adventure boasts elements of suspense and romance, and I was captivated by their story. Light My Fire begins the Summer of the Burning Sky trilogy, and I can’t wait for more!

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

 

 

About the book:

Former bad-boy Tucker Newman has learned his lesson—as the temporary team leader of the Jude County Smokejumpers, he’s all about following the rules to keep his team safe. Especially when he has to partner with a group of local low-security prisoners to knock down the raging fire. But the prisoners are not who they seem, and when they stage a break, kidnapping one of his teammates, he’ll have to break every rule he knows to get her back.

US Marshal Stevie Mills knows that to get the job done, she must work alone. She simply can’t risk another person getting hurt because of her. When she discovers that a wanted fugitive accused of rape and murder has not only been set free to fight the fire—but is now on the lam with a hostage– the last thing she needs is a zealous smokejumper getting in the way of her pursuit.

Whether they like it or not, Tucker and Stevie must join forces if they hope to save lives, and in the meantime, they just might discover a new definition for the word teamwork, in book 1 of the Summer of the Burning Sky.

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: Storm Front by Susan May Warren

28 May

Combining risk and romance, it is always a pleasure to revisit the PEAK Rescue team! Warren brings to life a dynamic cast of characters whose camaraderie is tangible, as is the turmoil they face. In Storm Front, Ty Remington and Brette Arnold share a dramatic and emotional journey where “life and love hang in the balance”.  I enjoyed their action-packed adventure and eagerly await this series’ finale. While each of the Montana Rescue books can be read independently, I recommend reading the progressing storylines in order for a greater understanding of the characters and their stories.

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

 

About the book:

A tornado has destroyed a small Minnesota community and among the missing are not only a group of students but PEAK Rescue team leader Chet King. Ty Remington will stop at nothing to rescue his mentor, not even when the girl he loved–and lost–walks back into his life. But Brette needs his help more than he knows, despite her stubborn determination to push him away. And when he gets a second chance, loving her just might cost him more than he can imagine.

A blogger for Vortex Storm Chasers, Brette Arnold didn’t expect her adventures to land her in the same place as Ty, the guy who she walked–no, ran–from over a year ago. She had her reasons–good ones. The kind that tell her that falling for him again would only lead to heartache. But Ty isn’t the kind of man to give up–not on the missing students, or on her.

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: The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright

16 Apr

The House on Foster Hill is a page-turning read! I love dual time period novels, and this intriguing tale kept me riveted in both the past and the present. From the well-crafted characters to the intricate plot, I delighted in this outstanding debut novel. Jaime Jo Wright is an author to follow, and I can’t wait for her next release!

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

 

About the book:

Kaine Prescott is no stranger to death. When her husband died two years ago, her pleas for further investigation into his suspicious death fell on deaf ears. In desperate need of a fresh start, Kaine purchases an old house sight unseen in her grandfather’s Wisconsin hometown. But one look at the eerie, abandoned house immediately leaves her questioning her rash decision. And when the house’s dark history comes back with a vengeance, Kaine is forced to face the terrifying realization she has nowhere left to hide.

A century earlier, the house on Foster Hill holds nothing but painful memories for Ivy Thorpe. When an unidentified woman is found dead on the property, Ivy is compelled to discover her identity. Ivy’s search leads her into dangerous waters and, even as she works together with a man from her past, can she unravel the mystery before any other lives–
including her own–are lost?

Learn more about the book and the author.

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Guest Post + #Giveaway: Alexa Verde

30 Jan

Please welcome Alexa Verde as she shares a guest post and giveaway!  

 

GUEST POST: Alexa Verde

At the end of January, do you still have Christmas in your heart?

I love writing and reading books about Christmas for many reasons. The knowledge about the Savior born, the reminder about grace, the feeling of joy about the good news of the Lord…

I love seeing Christmas lights, exchanging gifts, celebrating with my friends. But in January, the lights are taken down (except when people leave them on for the entire year) and the stores switch decorations to hearts and roses.

Personally, I think it’s never too late or too early to read or write about Christmas! I released Book 2 in Rios Azules Christmas series in March, and Book 3 in August. If you still feel like reading a Christmas book, be it a heartwarming, sweet romance or a fast-paced, action-packed suspense, here are some eBooks I’m offering for the giveaway.

 

 

The Mystery of Christmas 2 is only $0.99 or free on Kindle Unlimited. Seven new Christian mystery/suspense novellas! In every book of the set, mysteries are unveiled, suspense abounds, and danger is around every corner.

 

Season of Joy will be on sale for $0.99 January 29th – February 2nd!

Single dad Dylan McGregor wants to give his two sons the best life possible in the small town where he’d grown up. When his youngest son writes a letter to God asking for a Mom for Christmas, Dylan reluctantly starts dating again. His lifelong friend, Joy Avila, agrees to help him find the right woman. Then Dylan begins to see Joy in a new light and believes she’s the right woman for him and his family.

Overweight and teased in school, Joy never hoped her first crush, Dylan McGregor, would return her feelings. Confident and successful now, she’s found her passion in writing about international travels. The trip of a lifetime awaits her after the holidays. Instead, will she find her dreams right there in Rios Azules?

 

Love’s Christmas Cheer is only $1.99 or free on Kindle Unlimited.  

For feuding chefs at a new restaurant, a ruined wedding reception and a failed business are not on the menu. But love and family just might be…

Chefs Petr Sergeyev and Lacy-Jane Macalister can’t agree on anything except for that they can’t agree on anything.

Lacy-Jane Macalister returns to her hometown, eager to prove she’s not the culinary failure her ex claimed her to be. After a career in the military, Petr Sergeyev settles down in Sweet Grove to help his brother with his nephew and new business. Grandpa Alexey’s is the only place in town that needs chefs.

He’s for hearty meals. She promotes healthy food. He likes order. She prefers creativity. He left his girlfriend. She was betrayed by her fiancé. Their arguments are more heated than the stove in the restaurant’s kitchen. But when Lacy-Jane’s sister and Petr’s brother decide to have their wedding three days after Christmas, Petr and Lacy-Jane put their differences aside to give their siblings a great reception.

Will Petr and Lacy-Jane surrender their wills to God and receive Christmas gifts of love, faith, and hope?

 

GIVEAWAY:

One randomly chosen commenter to this post will receive a Kindle copy of an eBook mentioned in the post (winner’s choice).  To enter the giveaway, leave a comment with your answer to the following question.  The giveaway ends Sunday, February 4 at midnight CST. The winner will be chosen and announced on Monday, February 5.

When do you prefer to read about Christmas?

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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: Troubled Waters by Susan May Warren

3 Jan

Troubled Waters is an action-packed tale of adventure and romance! I have been anticipating Ian and Sierra’s story since this series began, and it did not disappoint. Fraught with drama and danger, their journey culminates with some very powerful life lessons. In addition to their emotional story, I also enjoyed the glimpses into Pete and Jess’s relationship and am eager for more as this exciting series continues. While each of the Montana Rescue stories can be read independently, the progressing storylines make reading them in order even more enjoyable. Susan May Warren brings her characters to life, and I love reading their stories!

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

 

About the book:

Billionaire Ian Shaw can have everything he wants–except a happy ending. Or at least that’s what it feels like with his fortune recently liquidated, his niece, Esme, still missing, and the woman he loves refusing to speak to him. In fact, he doubts she would date him even if they were stranded on a deserted island.

Despite her love for Ian, Sierra Rose knows he has no room in his life for her as long as the mystery of his missing niece goes unsolved. The only problem is, Sierra has solved it, but a promise to Esme to keep her whereabouts secret has made it impossible to be around Ian.

When the PEAK chopper is damaged and Sierra lacks the funds to repair it, Ian offers a fundraising junket for large donors on his yacht in the Caribbean. But the three-day excursion turns into a nightmare when a rogue wave cripples the yacht and sends the passengers overboard. Shaken up and soaked to the bone, Ian finally has a chance to test his theory when he and Sierra do indeed find themselves washed up on a strange, empty shore.

It will take guts and gumption for the PEAK team to rescue the duo. But it will take a miracle to rescue Ian and Sierra’s relationship.

Learn more about the book and the author.

 

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#BookReview: The Gift by Shelley Shepard Gray | 5 Book #Giveaway

13 Nov

I love returning to the Amish community of Hart County and especially enjoyed doing so at Christmas! It is a pleasure to revisit past characters, as well as meet new ones, as Gray brings another compelling story to life. When accidents occur and danger threatens, Susanna Schwartz and Neil Vance are drawn together in unexpected ways. A great blend of suspense and romance, I thoroughly enjoyed The Gift and look forward to continuing this intriguing series!

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

 

Enter to win a copy of The Gift. Five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced November 22nd on the Litfuse blog!

 

About the book:

The Schwartz family is happy to be spending Christmas on their new farm in Hart County. But when Susanna Schwartz hears gunshots that causes her buggy to overturn, and then her little sister falls through a wooden bridge into the icy creek, it becomes clear from these dangerous “accidents” that someone wants them gone.

Neil Vance has been heartbroken ever since his parents lost their family farm. He knows it’s not the Schwartz family’s fault, but he can’t help but be resentful. Until he meets Susanna. She is kind-hearted and bold, and Neil can’t stop thinking about her pretty green eyes.

Neil thinks the accidents are just that, but Susanna’s father is convinced the Vance family is responsible. Susanna refuses to believe Neil would do anything to harm her. She’s fallen in love with him and knows he is a good man. But her family is ready to pack up and move, and time is running out to uncover the truth before someone gets hurt . . . or worse.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

Read what other bloggers are saying about The Gift.

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