Tag Archives: Romance

#BookReview: Sandpiper Cove by Irene Hannon

22 Apr

Sandpiper Cove is full of charm! Irene Hannon has crafted a community that springs to life on the page, and I always delight in the time I spend in this seaside setting. Lexie Graham and Adam Stone are contrasting characters, yet they share more in common than they realize. I loved their story and the complexities of their relationship; theirs is my favorite Hope Harbor romance to date. As with each visit to this special place, I also enjoyed the endearing cast of secondary characters and the wisdom they dispensed. Hope and healing resonate through this heartwarming series, and I’m already anticipating its next installment!

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

 

About the book:

Hope Harbor police chief Lexie Graham has plenty on her plate raising her son alone and dealing with a sudden rash of petty theft and vandalism in her coastal Oregon hometown. As a result, she has zero time for extracurricular activities–including romance. Ex-con Adam Stone isn’t looking for love either–but how ironic is it that the first woman to catch his eye is a police chief? Yet wishing for things that can never be is foolish.

Nevertheless, when Lexie enlists Adam’s help to keep a young man from falling into a life of crime, sparks begin to fly. And as they work together, it soon becomes apparent that God may have a different–and better–future planned for them than either could imagine.

Purchase a copy.

Visit the author’s website.

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#BookReview: False Security by Elizabeth Goddard

19 Apr

Elizabeth Goddard once again treats readers to a heart-racing, page-turning adventure! I loved the tangible tension and engaging emotion that could be felt as Olivia and Zach struggled to survive in the Oregon wilderness. I also enjoyed the history shared between the two and the feelings that were rekindled as death and danger loomed. False Security is an exciting story and a recommended read for fans of romantic suspense!

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

 

About the book:

Arriving at her secluded cabin to find her brother missing, Olivia Kendricks follows his trail into the woods until two shooters take aim at her. She only escapes when ex-detective Zachary Long, her brother’s friend and Olivia’s first love comes to her rescue. Now as they run for their lives in the snowbound wilderness, they must search for her brother while figuring out why someone wants them dead. And though Zach’s police force training may be what will save them, it’s also what once drove them apart when he gave Olivia up to chase his dream. In a freezing landscape as deadly as it is beautiful, they’ll have to let go of the past and face down powerful men willing to kill to keep secrets buried.

Purchase a copy | Visit the author’s website

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#BookReview: Her Motherhood Wish by Keli Gwyn

29 Mar

Her Motherhood Wish is a wonderful story! Callie embraces life and Chip is a “bit too regimented”, which leads to an engaging and entertaining journey. I loved their interactions with each other and the children at the Double T Orphanage, and I also enjoyed revisiting several beloved characters from Gwyn’s earlier books. Historical tidbits, inspirational messages, and tender romance are woven together to create a most delightful tale!

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

 

About the book:

En route to the Double T Orphanage to work on its expansion, carpenter Chip Evans and Caroline Hunt discover two orphaned children–and become their caregivers. But Chip’s determined not to let himself get too attached to the children who just lost their widowed father…or to the lovely woman helping him care for them. Especially since Callie and the little ones just don’t fit into his detailed plans for the future.

Callie can’t help but fall in love with the orphans, and despite her better judgment, she’s falling for Chip, too. Her dreams of being a wife and mother were not quite like this. But Callie believes a plan bigger than Chip’s brought them all together…and now she just has to help him see it, too.

Purchase a copy.

Visit the author’s website.

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#BookReview: For Love and Honor by Jody Hedlund

16 Mar

For Love and Honor is a beautiful story with a beautiful message! Jody Hedlund never fails to charm me with her medieval tales, and For Love and Honor is no exception. Lady Sabine and Sir Bennet stole my heart, and their story of valor and romance captivated me from beginning to end.

The third book in the An Uncertain Choice series, For Love and Honor can be enjoyed independently of its predecessors. However, I have read and loved each of the books in this collection and highly recommend them to fans of medieval romance.

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

 

About the book:

Lady Sabine is harboring a skin blemish, one, that if revealed, could cause her to be branded as a witch, put her life in danger, and damage her chances of making a good marriage. After all, what nobleman would want to marry a woman so flawed?

Sir Bennet is returning home to protect his family from an imminent attack by neighboring lords who seek repayment of debts. Without fortune or means to pay those debts, Sir Bennet realizes his only option is to make a marriage match with a wealthy noblewoman. As a man of honor, he loathes the idea of courting a woman for her money, but with time running out for his family’s safety, what other choice does he have?

As Lady Sabine and Sir Bennet are thrust together under dangerous circumstances, will they both be able to learn to trust each other enough to share their deepest secrets? Or will those secrets ultimately lead to their demise?

 

 

Jody Hedlund is a best-selling and award-winning author who loves history and happily-ever-afters. She makes her home in Midland, MI with her husband and five children. When she’s not writing another of her page-turning stories, you can usually find her sipping coffee, eating chocolate, and reading.

 

Connect with Jody:
Website | Facebook | Twitter |Pinterest | Instagram

 

Learn more and purchase a copy.

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#BookReview: Her Secret by Shelley Shepard Gray | 5 Book #Giveaway

15 Mar

Her Secret is a tale that will keep you turning the pages! Shelley Shepard Gray is an engaging storyteller, and the atmosphere of this story and the emotions of its characters are palpable. Each member of the Hilty family has been affected by the events that drove them to make a fresh start, and their reactions vary as secrets are revealed and danger threatens. A great blend of compelling suspense and charming romance, I thoroughly enjoyed Her Secret and look forward to revisiting The Amish of Hart County!

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

About the book:

After a stalker went too far, Hannah Hilty and her family had no choice but to leave the bustling Amish community where she grew up. Now she’s getting a fresh start in Hart County, Kentucky…if only she wasn’t too scared to take it. Hannah has become afraid to trust anyone-even Isaac, the friendly Amish man who lives next door. She wonders if she’ll ever return to the trusting, easy-going woman she once was.

For Isaac Troyer, the beautiful girl he teasingly called “The Recluse” confuses him like no other. When he learns of her past, he knows he’s misjudged her. However, he also understands the importance of being grateful for God’s gifts, and wonders if they will ever have anything in common. But as Hannah and Isaac slowly grow closer, they realize that there’s always more to someone than meets the eye.

Just as Hannah is finally settling into her new life, and perhaps finding a new love, more secrets are revealed and tragedy strikes. Now Hannah must decide if she should run again or dare to fight for the future she has found in Hart County.

Read what other bloggers are saying about Her Secret.

 

Enter to win a copy of Her Secret!  Five winners will be chosen and announced April 3rd on the Litfuse blog!   Click the image below to enter to win.

 

About the author:

Shelley Shepard Gray is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

Visit the author’s website.

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#BookReview: The Message in a Bottle Romance Collection

14 Mar


I adored this extraordinary collection! As you open the pages of the book, you read of a precious message sealed in a bronze bottle. Traveling through time and across many waters, the message of hope contained in the vessel touches the lives of all who hold it dear.

From medieval Ireland to the California coast, I reveled in the richness and vibrancy that resonates through each novella. All five stories are beautifully rendered, and I lost myself within their pages. Often in a collection such as this, I find myself favoring one or two stories above the others. However, each of these tender tales shines as brightly as the one before it. I loved the adventure and romance of The Message in a Bottle Romance Collection and was touched by its powerful message!

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

 

About The Message in a Bottle Romance Collection:

Join the journey as one word etched in Latin on an ancient bronze bottle travels through the centuries to reach five young women who are struggling to maintain their faith in God and love. An Irish princess, a Scottish story weaver, a Post-Colonial nurse, a cotton mill worker, and a maid who nearly drowned each receive a message from the bottle just when they need their hope restored. But will the bottle also bring them each to a man whose love will endure?

 

 

The Distant Tide by Heather Day Gilbert
1170: County Kerry, Ireland
When a Viking bent on revenge mistakenly raids the castle of a bookish Irish princess, will she cast her fears aside to befriend the enemy, finally realizing God’s plan for her life?

A Song in the Night by Amanda Dykes
1717: Scotland and England
When a Scottish story-weaver loses her family in a clan war, she finds herself aided by a handsome, secretive bagpiper in a race against time to reunite with someone she never dared hope she’d see again.

The Forgotten Hope by Maureen Lang
1798: New York
As a champion of the sick, a young New Yorker never doubted her worth until a new doctor arrives to work with her father, one who believes her to be nothing more than a social butterfly. Can she gain his respect—and his love?

A River Between Us by Jocelyn Green
1864: Roswell, Georgia
When a Georgian cotton mill worker is arrested and sent North, the Union officer who tries to protect her is the last person she wants to forgive—and the only man who can bring hope and healing to her heart.

The Swelling Sea by Joanne Bischof
1890: Coronado Island, California
After washing ashore on the California coastline, a young woman’s yearning to discover her past leads her to the courageous oarsman who helps her find the key.

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#BookReview: The Elusive Miss Ellison | Kindle and Cuppa #Giveaway

9 Mar

Regency fans are sure to delight in The Elusive Miss Ellison! With a deft hand, Carolyn Miller whisks readers away and immerses them in 19th century England where the St. Hampton Heath village and villagers spring to life. I reveled in the story’s rich imagery and characterization and was entertained by the charms of both the hero and heroine. The frustrations Lavinia and Nicholas have with each other make their journey even more compelling. I thoroughly enjoyed this historical romance and look forward to continuing the Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series!

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

 

Settle in for a cozy night of reading with a cuppa and a Kindle!

One grand prize winner will receive:

Enter today by clicking the icon below!  The giveaway ends on March 22, and the winner will be announced March 23 on the Litfuse blog.

 

About the book:

Handsome appearance counts for naught unless matched by good character and actions.

That’s the firm opinion of not-so-meek minister’s daughter Lavinia Ellison. So even though all the other villagers of St. Hampton Heath are swooning over the newly returned seventh Earl of Hawkesbury, she is not impressed. If a man won’t take his responsibilities seriously and help those who are supposed to be able to depend on him, he deserves no respect from her. In Lavinia’s pretty, gray eyes, Nicholas Stamford is just as arrogant and reckless as his brother-who stole the most important person in Livvie’s world.

Nicholas is weighed down by his own guilt and responsibility, by the pain his careless brother caused, and by the legacy of war he’s just left. This quick visit home to St. Hampton Heath will be just long enough to ease a small part of that burden. Asking him to bother with the lives of the villagers when there’s already a bailiff on the job is simply too much to expect.

That is, until the hoydenish, intelligent, and very opinionated Miss Ellison challenges him to see past his pain and pride. With her angelic voice in his head, he may even be beginning to care. But his isn’t the only heart that needs to change.

These two lonely hearts may each have something the other needs. But with society’s opposition, ancestral obligations, and a shocking family secret, there may be too many obstacles in their way.

Fans of Georgette Heyer, Lori Wick, and Julie Klassen will enjoy the spirited exchanges between the bluestocking minister’s daughter and the bruised war hero as they move past pride and presumption to a humbled appreciation of God’s grace and the true strength of love.

Learn more about The Elusive Miss Ellison.

 

About the author:

Carolyn Miller lives in New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. A longtime lover of Regency romance, Carolyn’s novels have won a number of RWA and ACFW contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers.

Visit the author’s website.

 

Read what other bloggers are saying about The Elusive Miss Ellison.  

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#BookReview: Because You’re Mine by Colleen Coble

28 Feb

because-youre-mine

The vibrant imagery and haunting events of Because You’re Mine gripped me from the beginning, and the twists and turns of the plot kept me turning the pages until the very end. The setting and the gothic atmosphere of the story are absorbing and the unique cast of characters is quite engaging. While Because You’re Mine is a bit of a departure from Coble’s usual fare, I thoroughly enjoyed this atmospheric tale.

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

 

About the book:

Alanna has been plagued by tragedy. So it should come as no surprise that in the beauty that surrounds Charleston, all is not as it seems.

When her husband is killed by a car bomb while their band is on tour in Charleston, Alanna doesn’t know where to turn. Her father-in-law is threatening to take custody of the baby she carries, but the one thing she knows for sure is that she can’t lose the last piece of Liam she has left.

Their manager offers her a marriage of convenience to gain her U.S. citizenship and allow her to escape her father-in-law’s control. It seems like the perfect solution . . . but her doubts begin almost as soon as she arrives at Barry’s family home, a decaying mansion surrounded by swamp.

To make matters worse, Liam’s best friend survived the car bomb. She’s never really liked Jesse and now she can’t seem to get away from him. When he takes Liam’s place in their band, it’s almost more than she can bear.

But then things start happening. Things that could easily cost Alanna her life—or the life of her unborn child. Are they merely coincidences? Or is there something much more sinister at work?

Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/2mA2SU1

Visit the author: http://colleencoble.com/

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Spotlight + #Giveaway: Road to Danger Collection

27 Feb

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Road to Danger: Mystery/Suspense Collection

Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/2mk8llS

Texas Fires by E.E. Kennedy
When schoolteacher Amanda’s engagement dreams are shattered, she tells herself she’s fine, though her summer job involves working for Jason’s father. So it’s a welcome delay when she’s called for jury duty on an arson case. A young woman, Harriet, has set fire to the house of a helpless elderly invalid. The defendant is found guilty, but Amanda can’t help asking “Why?” As she explores the evidence on her own, she continually encounters Jason, who may not be quite ready to let her go. Will Amanda ever learn the motive for this vicious crime? And will she survive a ruthless enemy and a devastating prairie fire in time to realize where real loves lies?

Identity Theft by Alana Terry
After a devastating accident stole her fiancé and robbed her of a normal life, Lacy does what she can to move on. It’s hard enough living in Glennallen, Alaska with its negative-fifty-degree winters and mosquito-ravaged summers. Things get even more complicated when she meets Kurtis, an Alaska state trooper, and his delightful four-year-old daughter who would love nothing more than to make Lacy her new mom.

A traumatized past makes it hard for Lacy to commit to this new relationship, especially since she can’t shake the nagging suspicion that her fiancé isn’t dead like the police reports claim. All she wants is closure, but as she seeks out real answers, she discovers how deadly the truth can actually be.

The Assumption of Guilt by Amanda Tru
Nobody stops to think what it would be like to be arrested. That just doesn’t happen to normal people, right?

When a major theft happens at a party she’s attending, Sophie James finds herself the prime suspect. Has she been framed or was she just in the wrong place at the wrong time? Now Sophie must convince the police, along with her cop boyfriend, that she’s innocent. With no record, no motive, and no evidence, that shouldn’t be difficult. Then why does no one seem to believe her?

Scent of Danger by Alexa Verde
To find her missing sister, small-town cop Maya Hutchinson risks her life by posing as her glamorous twin. Under escalating attacks, Maya accepts protection from dashing senator’s son Connor McNamara. Cop turned PI, Connor McNamara has his own secret mission and is forced to choose between family loyalty and love. When the scent of danger draws near, will Connor and Maya survive long enough to forgive and accept each other?

Maid for Murder: Deadly Business by Susette Williams
Bailey inherits her grandfather’s business, but cleaning up dead body parts wasn’t part of the job description. Bailey hopes to wipe out crime with the help of Nate, her computer hacker assistant, despite protests of their involvement in the case from Detective Max Wellington.

As the threads of deceit unravel, the murders begin to break out like a case of Bubonic Plague. Bailey uncovers deception, corruption and a few secrets that may forever change her life.

Bailey struggles to keep on the path she knows is right, fighting the temptation of the hunky Detective Max Wellington, who would like nothing more than to take her into protective custody, for more than just interfering in police business.

 

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GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
Thanks to the generosity of Alexa Verde, one lucky commenter will win a Kindle copy of Road to Danger.

To enter the giveaway:
Leave a comment below letting us know what you enjoy most about mystery/suspense stories. The giveaway ends Monday, March 6 at midnight CST. The winner will be chosen and announced on Tuesday, March 7.

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 number of entries.

What do you enjoy most about mystery/suspense stories?

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#BookReview: The Wedding Dress by Rachel Hauck

24 Feb

the-wedding-dress

The Wedding Dress is an enchanting tale! Rachel Hauck skillfully weaves together the stories of four brides bound by one wedding dress. I delighted in the tender romance and reveled in the history woven within the threads of a vintage gown. Beautifully told, each woman’s journey adds exquisite depth and richness to this stirring story of timeless love.

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

 

About the book:

Charlotte owns a chic Birmingham bridal boutique. Dressing brides for their big day is her gift . . . and her passion. But with her own wedding day approaching, why can’t she find the perfect dress…or feel certain she should marry Tim?

Then Charlotte discovers a vintage dress in a battered trunk at an estate sale. It looks brand-new-shimmering with pearls and satin, hand-stitched and timeless in its design. But where did it come from? Who wore it? Who welded the lock shut and tucked the dog tags in that little sachet? Who left it in the basement for a ten-year-old girl? And what about the mysterious man in the purple vest who insists the dress had been “redeemed.”

Charlotte’s search for the gown’s history-and its new bride-begins as a distraction from her sputtering love life. But it takes on a life of its own as she comes to know the women who have worn the dress. Emily from 1912. Mary Grace from 1939. Hillary from 1968. Each with her own story of promise, pain, and destiny. And each with something unique to share. For woven within the threads of the beautiful hundred-year-old gown is the truth about Charlotte’s heritage, the power of courage and faith, and the timeless beauty of finding true love.

Visit the author: http://www.rachelhauck.com/

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Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/2kVmXb5

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