My New Crush Gave to Me

Charlotte Charlie Donovan knows exactly what she wants for Christmas: Teo Ortiz. He's the school's star athlete, in the National Honor Society, invited to every party, contributes to the school paper (where Charlie is co-editor), and is about to be featured as One to Watch in a teen magazine basically, he's exactly the type of guy Charlie s meant to be with. The only problem he barely knows she exists.

But Charlie is determined to be Teo's date to the Christmas ball. And she has a plan: To rig the paper's Secret Santa so that she can win his heart with five perfect gifts. But to do that she needs help. Enter J.D. Ortiz Teo s cousin, and possibly the most annoying person on the planet. He's easy going, laid back, unorganized, spontaneous, and makes a joke out of everything the exact opposite of Charlie (and Teo). But he's willing to provide insight into what Teo wants, so she s stuck with him.

Yet, the more time Charlie spends with J.D., the more she starts to wonder: Does she really know what, or rather who, she wants for Christmas?

My thoughts: I wasn't so sure about this book and what I thought about it when I first started it, since I found it hard to relate to Charlie in the beginning. But, I liked where the story went and how she grew as a character. I also really liked the romance in the story, since it shows that love is more than butterflies and romance, but needs friendship and variety to help it thrive. I loved the side characters and thoroughly enjoyed this story!
I received this book through Netgalley, in exchange for my honest review.
This post contains affiliate links.

I'll Be Yours

The day Andrew Levin arrives at Washington High, Harper O’Malley knows he’ll make the perfect starter boyfriend. The school’s newest band geek is totally in Harper’s league, yet completely out of this late-bloomer’s reach. Between fitting in with a new family, scoring the first chair in band, and rescuing dogs for the local animal shelter, Harper’s never had the opportunity to hone her dating skills. But even though Harper’s love life is far from perfect, she’s got the perfect plan.

Harper knows she’s insane to agree to tutor Ridley Estes, a notorious heartbreaker and the star of her high school’s football team—but in exchange, he’s offered to school her in the game of love. Just when she sees promise with her crush, a football scandal rocks her family, her town, and Ridley’s entire future. Harper suddenly has everything to lose—her family, friends, and even her heart. When the dust of the scandal settles, nothing will be the same. Including the girl who asked the most popular jock to teach her about love.

My thoughts: It's been too long since I last read one of Jenny's books, since I forgot just how likeable her characters are! I loved getting to know Harper, with her insecurities, big heart, and hilarious humor. Sometimes life deviates from our perfect plans, leaving us to either hang on to our own ideas or reach out and grab the incredible curve ball that God threw. I loved the themes of forgiveness and redemption in this story. I can't recommend it enough! It's a sweet YA story that has a lot of depth to it, with Harper still dealing with the circumstances that led to her adoption into the O'Malley family when those insecurities are brought back up through a family tragedy. If you are looking for a good fall read, I recommend this one.

This post contains affiliated links.

Crisis Shot

Tess O'Rourke dreams of becoming the first female chief of police in Long Beach, California. As commander of the East Division, she is well on her way . . . until the night she responds to an officer-needs-assistance call and fatally shoots an unarmed teenager. Despite being cleared of wrongdoing by a grand jury, Tess is so hounded by the public that she takes a job in Oregon to escape the bad press.

Winning over the residents of Rogue's Hollow might be more difficult than adjusting to her new role as police chief in the small, backwater town. Especially when her closest friend, the pastor's wife, goes missing and the woman's cousin is found shot. Tess finds an ally in sheriff's deputy Steve Logan, but as they track down Rogue's Hollow's first murderer, she worries that she's breaking one of her rules and getting too close to him.

My thoughts: I haven't read any of Janice's previous stories, but my sister has raved about them, so I picked this one up. It was excellent! I love how the story tackles social issues, like the recent problems with attacks on police officers. I was a bit horrified by how much of a mess one blogger made in this story, but I think I was even more horrified that things like this story actually happen.
The mystery and suspense of the story are driving, which makes it hard to put down! I love how we get glimpses into other sides of the story. Two thumbs up! I look forward to reading more of Janice's books!
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

A Name Unknown

Edwardian Romance and History Gains a Twist of Suspense

Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins that helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they concentrate on stealing high-value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. But when Rosemary must determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany, she is in for the challenge of a lifetime. How does one steal a family's history, their very name?

Peter Holstein, given his family's German blood, writes his popular series of adventure novels under a pen name. With European politics boiling and his own neighbors suspicious of him, Peter debates whether it might be best to change his name for good. When Rosemary shows up at his door pretending to be a historian and offering to help him trace his family history, his question might be answered.

But as the two work together and Rosemary sees his gracious reaction to his neighbors' scornful attacks, she wonders if her assignment is going down the wrong path. Is it too late to help him prove that he's more than his name?

My thoughts: I have enjoyed each of Roseanne's books immensely, so I was thrilled to get a hold of a copy of this book! This series is off to a wonderful start, I enjoyed the characters and the intrigue surrounding the time of their story, which is set in 1914 when England was on the cusp of World War I. This book revealed some interesting history about the king of the time and how anyone with a German surname was under suspicion. This is an excellent story to pick up! I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series, as Roseanne's characters are very realistic and go through a lot of growth through the course of the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.

Egyp'ts Sister

Five decades before the birth of Christ, Chava, daughter of the royal tutor, grows up with Urbi, a princess in Alexandria's royal palace. When Urbi becomes Queen Cleopatra, Chava vows to be a faithful friend no matter what--but after she and Cleopatra have an argument, she finds herself imprisoned and sold into slavery.

Torn from her family, her community, and her elevated place in Alexandrian society, Chava finds herself cast off and alone in Rome. Forced to learn difficult lessons, she struggles to trust a promise HaShem has given her. After experiencing the best and worst of Roman society, Chava must choose between love and honor, between her own desires and God's will for her life.

My thoughts: While I have enjoyed a wide variety of Angela's novels, I have to say that her historical fiction is where her talent as an author shines. I'm not sure why I even picked up this book, since Cleopatra is one of my least favorite women in history. I'm so glad that I decided to read this story regardless though! It was a wonderful blend of history and fiction. I enjoyed getting to know the main character and liked that there was so much to her story. I highly recommend this one and look forward to reading the other books in the series, as it gives a unique look into what was going on in the world before the birth of Jesus Christ.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

The Girl Who Could See

Click here to purchase.

About the Book

Book title: The Girl Who could See

 

Author: Kara Swanson

 

Release date: June 1, 2017

 

Genre: Science Fiction/Urban Fantasy/Young Adult

 

All her life Fern has been told she is blind to reality—but, what if she is the only one who can truly see?

Fern Johnson is crazy. At least, that’s what the doctors have claimed since her childhood. Now nineteen, and one step away from a psych ward, Fern struggles to survive in bustling Los Angeles. Desperate to appear normal, she represses the young man flickering at the edge of her awareness—a blond warrior only she can see.

Tristan was Fern’s childhood imaginary hero, saving her from monsters under her bed and outside her walls. As she grew up and his secret world continued to bleed into hers, however, it only caused catastrophe. But, when the city is rocked by the unexplainable, Fern is forced to consider the possibility that this young man is not a hallucination after al—and that the creature who decimated his world may be coming for hers.

My thoughts: First off, the cover is just gorgeous! That alone had me wanting to pick up the book as soon as possible, since the silhouette framing the city is just beautiful. Thankfully, the story lives up to the gorgeous art! It's a wonderful story of impossible love, other worlds, and suspense. This is one for the beach bag! I look forward to reading more by this talented young author.
I received this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

As the daughter of missionaries, KARA SWANSON spent sixteen years of her young life in the jungles of Papua New Guinea. Able to relate with characters dropped suddenly into a unique new world, she quickly fell in love with the speculative genre and was soon penning stories herself. At seventeen, she independently published her debut fantasy novel, Pearl of Merlydia. Her short story is included in Kathy Ide’s 21 Days of Joy: Stories that Celebrate Mom. She has published many articles, including one in the Encounter magazine, and she received the Mount Hermon Most Promising Teen Writer award in 2015.

Guest Post from Kara Swanson

Did you have an imaginary friend growing up? I did. And I think most of us probably understood what it was like to use our childhood imaginations to create friends and take us places.

The Girl Who Could See follows Fern Johnson, a young woman who’s imaginary friend, Tristan, first appeared in her life when she was eight years old—and has never left. Now nineteen, Fern still sees Tristan, only he is no longer her friend. Now he is her curse. The source of her insanity. The reason Fern cannot keep a job and has been passed from one psychologist to another. The reason she is one step away from a psych ward. However, Tristan disagrees. He says that he’s not a figment of Fern’s imagination and is determined to prove it. But, if his existence is real, it has dangerous implications not only for Fern, but for her world. Because the creature that decimated Tristan’s planet is coming for Earth—and only the girl everyone says is crazy can stop it.

I wrote the novella as a way to explore the idea of what would happen if someone had an imaginary friend who never left. What would the psychological and daily implications be? And what if that imaginary friend wasn’t imaginary? The story that grew from those sparks of ideas became an adventure that I hope you’ll enjoy as much as I did. 🙂



To celebrate her tour, Kara is giving away a $25 Amazon Gift Card!! Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

The Lost Girl of Astor Street

When her best friend vanishes without so much as a good-bye, eighteen-year-old Piper Sail takes on the role of amateur sleuth in an attempt to solve the mystery of Lydia’s disappearance. Given that Piper’s tendency has always been to butt heads with high-society’s expectations of her, it’s no surprise that she doesn’t give a second thought to searching for answers to Lydia’s abduction from their privileged neighborhood.

As Piper discovers that those answers might stem from the corruption strangling 1924 Chicago—and quite possibly lead back to the doors of her affluent neighborhood—she must decide how deep she’s willing to dig, how much she should reveal, and if she’s willing to risk her life of privilege for the sake of the truth.

Perfect for fans of Libba Bray and Anna Godbersen, Stephanie Morrill’s atmospheric, jazz-age mystery will take readers from the glitzy homes of the elite to the dark underbelly of 1920s Chicago.

“Downton Abbey in downtown Chicago—a must read!” —Allison Rushby, author of The Heiresses

My thoughts: In a lot of ways, this book was not at all what I expected! The story drew me in right away, and I love that there is so much going on with the mystery! I love how Piper develops as a character, as she is thrown out of her comfort zone and left without her best friend. She's a delightful heroine who is strong and feminine at the same time.
I'm hopeful that this one will turn into a series.;)
I received this title through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

Just the Way You Are review and giveaway!

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Book

 

Book: Just the Way You Are



Author: Pepper Basham

 



Genre: Contemporary Romance

Single mom, Eisley Barrett, prefers to keep romance safely housed within a centuries-old mystery, but when she travels to England to unearth the secret, an actor with a sordid past offers her reluctant heart a very different type of discovery.

Wes Harrison has a past he’s ashamed to confess. Suspicious and cynical, he’s managed to avoid romantic entanglements since a tragedy upended his career and life, that is until American Eisley Barrett comes along. Her authenticity and kindness upend his bitter assumptions and send his heart into unscripted territory.

When his past threatens to ruin a second chance at love, can some Appalachian matchmaking and letters from the grace salvage their unexpected romance?

My thoughts: This book is just wonderful! While I have enjoyed the other books that I have read by Pepper, this one was just so much more fun.;) The characters are fun to get to know, and I really liked the combination of Appalachian culture and British. I highly recommend this one! I know I, for one, look forward to more books in this series.;)
I received this book from Celebrate Lit in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes novels inspired by her love for history and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Her Penned in Time series has garnered recognition in the Inspys, Grace Awards, and the ACFW Carol Awards. Her contemporary romance novel, A Twist of Faith, received 4-stars from Romantic Times, and most recently, her newest release, The Thorn Healer, received a Top Pick from RT with 4 ½ stars. Her newest contemporary romance, Just the Way You Are, releases in April 2016. You can get to know Pepper on Facebook, or over at her group blog, The Writer’s Alley, or Instagram. 

 

Guest post from Pepper Basham

Thank you so much for featuring my newest novel, Just the Way You Are, on CelebrateLit. I am THRILLED to be a part of this and to share a story that is very dear to my heart.

 



Just the Way You Are is my first ‘true’ Britallachian romantic comedy. Even though I’ve written comedy in some of my other novels and included elements of both Appalachia and Britain, this one embodies the tag #britallachian to the core. For those of you who’ve read some of my previous books, you know I’m a big fan of my native Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian culture. You may also know that I’m a proud Anglophile.



Those two loves met in Just the Way You Are – and I tossed lots of other things I love best into the mix. What are those ingredients, you might ask?



Well, let me just tell ya! Just the Way You Are is a blend of Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian culture, big (hilarious) family dynamics, matchmaking, Britain, a swoony English hero, a quirky, magnanimous heroine, a bunch of adorable kids, Scooby Doo and Indiana Jones references, lots of humor, a historical mystery, a devious villainess, stately manor houses, secret rooms, love letters, and matchmaking all rolled into one…oh, and did I mention brain-numbing romance?



(Did anyone else feel the need to add “fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, miracles, true love….” From the Princess Bride?) I don’t think I included torture, giants, or monsters in Just the Way You Are…but I may have the other elements in this novel.



Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating about the brain-numbing, but I do have a tendency to err on the side of overly dramatic.



Within the pages of Just the Way You Are, you’ll meet people from my own family, people from my imagination, and some people who stepped into the story without one ounce of my planning to ever meet them. This story came out of my desire to write something I love reading – spicy romance, clean humor, culture clashes, the big love of family, and redemption.



How did my heroine Eisley Barrett evolve? Out of thin air. I was washing dishes one afternoon and staring out the window into our small backyard with the Blue Ridge Mountains painting a purplish-blue frame on the horizon when I closed my eyes. Into my imagination came this ginger-headed woman walking through Heathrow International Airport pulling a hot pink bag behind her…and then, she tripped and fell. That was it. That’s how I was introduced to my insecure, hilarious, romance-loving, single-mom heroine.



And the dashing hero? Okay, this may sound ridiculous, but I was watching an interview about Richard Armitage (Thoron Oakenshield, Guy of Gisborne, etc) regarding his lovely costume drama North and South where he plays a very dashing British hero. Anyway, he was SUCH a gentleman to watch during the interview. So polite. Kind. Funny, in a sweet way, and then, out of the blue, he said the word ‘gosh’. I know, that may not be a big deal to anyone but me, but after watching celebrity interviews where every other word needed a censor, the very fact that this elegant man used the word ‘gosh’, sent my writing brain into motion. My first internal question? What if a movie star with a tender heart had been burned by the pretension and expectation of celebrity status? What kind of woman could touch a heart who’d lost his faith in love’s authenticity?



Enter my red-head single-mom toting her pink bag through Heathrow and you have the very beginning of Just the Way You Are – a story of forgiveness, second chances…and a little bit of movie magic.

Blog Stops

April 6: Reading Is My SuperPower

April 6: cherylbbookblog

April 6: Fiction Aficionado

April 7: Book Reviews From an Avid Reader

April 7: Smiling Book Reviews

April 7: Singing Librarian Books

April 8: Bookworm Mama

April 8: my site/autism mom

April 9: Quiet Quilter

April 9: Inklings and notions

April 10: Faithfully Bookish

April 10: Back Porch Reads

April 11: Robin’s Nest

April 11: Christian Chick’s Thoughts

April 12: Blogging With Carol

April 12: Just the Write Escape

April 13: Cordially Barbara

April 13: Moments Dipped in Ink

April 14: His Grace is Sufficient

April 14: A Greater Yes

April 15: Just Commonly

April 15: 100 Pages per Hour

April 16: Book by Book

April 16: A Baker’s Perspective

April 17: Splashes of Joy

April 17: Christian Bookaholic

April 17: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

April 18: Karen Sue Hadley

April 18: History Mystery & Faith

April 18: Through the Open Window

April 19: Henry Happens

April 19: Baker Kella

April 19: Daysong Reflections

Giveaway

[Insert Giveaway Picture Here]

To celebrate her tour, Pepper is giving away a Grand Prize consisting of:
A ‘chest’ – in JTWYA historical letters are discovered in a chest that relates to the historical storyline, so all of these lovely goodies are going to be safely inside this chest.

Chocolate – several references take place in JTWYA that compare the hero to chocolate ;-)

A plaque about family – because that’s a main point of importance in JTWYA

A Spider-man zipper pull – Pete, the heroine’s son, is a major Spider-man fan.

English Breakfast Tea – The hero is English…swoony English

A dishcloth – again, something that relates to a scene in the book regarding the hero and dishes (twice)

Stirring spoon and measuring cups – food and cooking are a big part of Appalachian culture and fellowship, something celebrated in JTWYA

A notebook – Eisley (the heroine) is taking notes about a historical family mystery

A lovely container full of cloth flowers (for fun, and beauty) – the container says – Love and you will be loved. Loving others has an amazing way to find its way back to us (as is what happens in JTWYA)

A little plaque that reads “You are Loved” – a theme of this story

A beautiful lace doily from England (the English part of the story)

Some “Pixie Dust” a fun visualization of the ‘magic’ of romance in this story

and A copy of Just the Way You Are!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!

It Started With Goodbye

Sixteen-year-old Tatum Elsea is bracing for the worst summer of her life. After being falsely accused of a crime, she’s stuck under stepmother-imposed house arrest and her BFF’s gone ghost. Tatum fills her newfound free time with community service by day and working at her covert graphic design business at night (which includes trading emails with a cute cello-playing client). When Tatum discovers she’s not the only one in the house keeping secrets, she finds she has the chance to make amends with her family and friends. Equipped with a new perspective, and assisted by her feisty step-abuela-slash-fairy-godmother, Tatum is ready to start fresh and maybe even get her happy ending along the way.

A modern play on the Cinderella story arc, Christina June’s IT STARTED WITH GOODBYE shows us that sometimes going after what you want means breaking the rules.

My thoughts: I loved this story! I've mentioned before that I really enjoy fairy tales and reading retold fairy tales. It Started With Goodbye is my very favorite kind of retelling, since it was a Cinderella story while being totally original too. I loved the characters and that Tatum isn't the only one we connect with. I highly recommend this one, since it was delightful and surprisingly deep. It also is clean, which can be hard to find in a YA title.
I look forward to reading more by Christina!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Trust My Heart review and giveaway

Grant McAllister is a big-city lawyer and has no interest in his late, estranged grandparents or the dilapidated mansion he just acquired. After his high-profile divorce, he should be avoiding perky reporters, too. But Jami Carlisle is honest, funny, and undeniably appealing. After breaking up with her safe-but-smothering boyfriend, Jami is determined to ace her first big assignment. A story about the McAllister estate is too intriguing to ignore—much like its handsome, commitment-phobic heir. Thanks to her digging, the pieces of Grant’s fraught family history are gradually fitting into place, but also upending all his old beliefs. The two draw closer as they share their dreams, until misread signals and misunderstandings begin to test their trust. But in the unspoiled beauty of the Smoky Mountains, there’s healing and forgiveness to be found. And for Grant, this unplanned detour may be just what’s needed to finally guide him home…

My thoughts: I wasn't sure how I would like this story, but I was quickly swept away by the fun characters and all that goes on in the story. Carol captures the small community feel with Jami and Grant's story. I love that she developes her side characters too! This is a delightful read.
I received this book from litfuse in exchange for my honest review.
Be sure to check out the giveaway!

The Sound of Diamonds

In Reformation-era England, a converted rogue wants to restore his honor at whatever cost. Running from a tortured past, Dirk Godfrey knows he has only one chance at redemption.
An independent Catholic maiden seeking refuge in the Low Countries finds herself at the center of the Iconoclastic Fury. Jaded by tragedy, Gwyneth's only hope of getting home is to trust the man she hates, and she soon discovers her poor vision is not the only thing that has been blinding her.
But the home Gwyneth knew is not what she once thought. When a dark secret and a twisted plot for power collide in a castle masquerading as a haven, will the saint and the sinner hold to hope...or be overcome?

My thoughts: This book is excellent! It starts off at a fast pace from the get go, with Gwyneth in the middle of the Iconoclastic Fury and in need of rescue. I didn't know a whole lot about this particular turbulent time in the history of Europe (during Queen Elizabeth I reign), but I feel like Rachelle does a fabulous job of helping the reader not get lost. This story is a perfect blend of historic events and personal growth. I love how Gwyneth has been raised Catholic but suddenly has questions about why there is such a struggle between Catholicism and the Protestants. While these questions and soul searching will be explored more in the following stories (I am sure), I like that some things are concluded in this story. I'm not a fan of series that leave you hanging after every book, so I appreciated this.
If you are looking for a well written, adventure filled historical read, then I highly recommend this one!
I received this book from the author as part of a blog tour. All thoughts are my own.

A Heart Most Certain

A Fresh Voice in Historical Romance!
Lydia King knows what it's like to be in need, so when she joins the Teaville Moral Society, she genuinely hopes to help the town's poor. But with her father's debts increasing by the day and her mother growing sicker by the week, she wonders how long it will be until she ends up in the poor house herself. Her best chance at a financially secure future is to impress the politician courting her, and it certainly doesn't hurt that the moral society's president is her suitor's mother. Her first task as a moral society member—to obtain a donation from Nicholas Lowe, the wealthiest man in town—should be easy . . . except he flat-out refuses.
Despite appearances, Nicholas wants to help others but prefers to do it his own way, keeping his charity private. When Lydia proves persistent, they agree to a bargain, though Nicholas has a few surprises up his sleeve. Neither foresee the harrowing complications that will arise from working together. When town secrets are brought to light, this unlikely pair must decide where their beliefs—and hearts—truly align.

My thoughts: I was blown away by this story! I picked it up on a whim, since I don't know that I have really read Melissa's books. I am so glad that I did! The story was amazing, having some surprising depth and a lot going on. I loved the main characters, especially Lydia, since she reminds me of Emma from Jane Austen's story. While not what I would call spoiled, she learns to be a better person when she makes a bargain with Nicholas Lowe, a man who seems like a miser from the outside.
I love the issues that this story deals with and how the characters develop over the course of the story. This book is a new favorite!
I received this book from Bethany in exchange for my honest review.

In the Field of Grace

Without wealth or family, the widow Ruth left her people and followed Naomi, her beloved Hebrew mother-in-law, to rebuild Naomi's home in Israel. Provisions gone and starvation at the door, Ruth used all that she had left--a strong back and a willing heart--to gather grain in a field, abandoned after the harvest.

Tormented by others, Ruth is shocked to find the owner of the field watching her. Talking to her. Bringing food to her and Naomi. Boaz tells himself his kindness toward Ruth is repayment for the love she has shown to his cousin Naomi. But his heart knows better.

My thoughts: I have had this on my TBR list ever since it came out. I am embarrassed that it took me this long to get around to reading it! Once I started it, I could not put it down, since Tessa nails bringing the story of Ruth to life. I can imagine that it is a delicate balance between staying true to what we know about the story and times and bringing it to life by adding more characters to the story. I think she does a wonderful job of filling in the story of Ruth and Boaz. I loved that both of the main characters challenge the reader to be a better person. While I have enjoyed all of her stories, I think that this one is my favorite yet, since it's a wonderful story of loss and hope, pain and joy. I know I have a tendency to just focus on the blessings that people in the Bible received and not think too much about what they went through to get to that point. This book is a great reminder to trust God through the trials, since He always has our best interest at heart, and often there is a blessing on the other side of the trial.
I received this book from Moody in exchange for my honest review.

Take ten: Most anticipated books of the latter half of 2016

1. An Elegant Facade, July 2015

I loved the first book (it was refreshing), so I am hoping this one will be every bit as delightful!

2. Missing, July 2015

This is another one where the first book blew me away! I look forward to reading this one, in hopes that some things will start to be resolved.;)

3. Without Warning, August 2016


4. The Lady and the Lionheart, August 2016

Doesn't this one look gorgeous?

5. A Lesson in Love and Murder, September 2016

The first one was quirky and adorable!

6. My sister's Prayer, September 2016


7. The Cautious Maiden, October 2016

I've only read the first one, but it was excellent! (this is the fourth one)

8. Tangled Webs, October 2016


9. Lost in Scotland, November 2016

I've adored her other books, so I look forward to seeing how this one is!

8. A Portrait of Emily Price, November 2016

Hurray! One of my favorite authors.

10. The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill

I wasn't thrilled with the last book I read by her, but I am hopeful this one will be more my speed.

What books are you excited about? Are there some I should add to my list?

Dawn at Emberwilde

Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.

For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.

The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.

At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.

At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.

My thoughts: What a fun, Regency style story! I love the element of gothic with this story and the mystery surrounding the forest. I also really enjoyed the main characters and getting to know them! There is a lot going on with the story and I like that there are secondary characters as well that play a good part in the story without taking over. I hope that Isabel's friend, Mary, will have her own story at some point.;)
Sarah has written another winner with this book! It was the perfect book to curl up with on a rainy day.
I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review.

Samara's Peril

Jaye L. Knight’s newest novel, Samara’s Peril, has been released!
Samara’s Peril is the third book in the Christian fantasy series, Ilyon
Chronicles. Read about it below and be sure to check out the other blog stops on
the tour by visiting the official tour page. Don’t forget to enter the giveaway!





About the Book

When news arrives that Emperor Daican has been in contact with his chief war strategist, it
signals potential doom for the country of Samara. Determined to intervene, the resistance in
Landale, headed by Lady Anne, embark on a covert mission in hopes of unearthing further
information. However, a shocking discovery leads to complications no one could have foreseen.


Armed with their newfound knowledge, they set out for Samara to warn the king. War is
inevitable, and they must face two desperate battles—one on the walls of Samara’s great
stronghold, and the other on the battlefield of Jace’s heart, where victory might only be
achievable through great sacrifice.

Available now on Amazon, Barnes
& Noble, and iBooks!

Add to Goodreads

 

About the Author

Jaye L. Knight is an award-winning author,
homeschool graduate, and shameless tea addict with a passion for Christian fantasy. Armed
with an active imagination and love for adventure, Jaye weaves stories of truth, faith, and
courage with the message that even in the deepest darkness, God’s love shines as a light to offer
hope. She has been penning stories since the age of eight and resides in the Northwoods of
Wisconsin.



You can connect with Jaye on her website,
blog, Facebook, Google+, Twitter,
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Share in the excitement of the release and enter to win a themed giveaway pack! Prizes
include an autographed copy of Samara’s Peril, a John 3:16 necklace by FaithWearDesigns, and a green
wire dragon bookmark by Wirelings!
(Giveaway is open to US residents only. Cannot be shipped internationally.)

 

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Excerpt:
“I think she’s in love with you.”
Kaden shot Trev a dark look in answer to his amused tone and grin. Though Jace tried, he
couldn’t hold back his own amusement, even if it was at Kaden’s expense. He was just glad he
wasn’t the one Tina had set her sights on. He wasn’t equipped to handle that awkward situation.
Kaden grumbled under his breath and sat down hard on his bed, where he flopped back
against the pillow.
Aaron leaned casually against the doorframe. “She’s quite a talker.”
Kaden scrubbed his hands over his face and released a low groan. “If I have to hide in this
room the whole time we’re here, I’ll lose my mind.”
“Not as fast as you would out there.” Aaron gestured over his shoulder, earning a chorus of
chuckles.
Grabbing the pillow, Kaden chucked it at him. “A lot of help you are.”
As Aaron bent down for it, Rayad returned to the room from meeting with Anne and Kyrin.
The mood changed immediately, and Jace straightened. He needed to know about Kyrin. He
hadn’t slept well last night, not knowing for sure if she was safe. How could he protect her if he
couldn’t even be on the same floor as her?

My thoughts: I was thrilled to have the chance to review this title, as I have been wanting to read Jaye's stories for a while now and just haven't made the time. It seems like having a deadline, like reviewing the story, is the best way for me to make the time.;)
Once I actually had the title, though, I did worry about it being the third book in the series, with my not having read the two previous stories. While I know it would of made me appreciate this book all the more, Jaye does a wonderful job of telling the readers just enough of the previous books to keep one from getting lost, while still making you want to go back and read the previous books to know more.
I fell in love with this story from the get go! The characters are wonderful and I love the depth of the message of God's love. The story is in the fantasy genre and is set in an interesting world of rebellion and dragons. I look forward to reading the rest of the series!
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.

Born to Treason

Joan Pryce is not only a Catholic during the English Reformation but also Welsh, and comes from a family of proud revolutionaries. But when a small act of defiance entangles her in a deadly conspiracy, a single misstep may lead her straight to the gallows. Now, Joan must navigate a twisting path that could cost her life, her freedom, and her chance of finding love.

My thoughts: I'm so glad that I picked up this book! The story is a wonderful, interesting one that brings to life the persecution that the Catholics faced under Queen Elizabeth I. Joan's story is one of intrigue and secrets as she navigates the new world of her hosts, where nothing is quite as it seems. I loved getting to know Joan, especially since there was a lot to her character. The author does a wonderful job of bringing her to life, since it would of been a hard time in history to live, with making choices between how to hold to your faith/religion and yet walk to fine line of not angering the officials.
I like that this story has a lot of subtleties, making it a rich, historical tale. This one is highly recommend!
I received this book from Cedar Fort in exchange for my honest review.

Fading Starlight

A Tale of Unexpected Friendship and Old Hollywood Glamour

Lauren Summers is hiding. Her fashion house internship should have launched her career, but a red carpet accident has left her blackballed. The only job she finds is unpaid, but comes with free lodging--a run-down cottage in the shadow of a cliff-side mansion. Unsure of what comes next, she's surprised to be contacted by a reporter researching a reclusive former Hollywood ingEnue who lives in the nearby mansion.

Kendall Joiner wants Lauren's help uncovering the old woman's secrets. In return, she'll prove the red carpet accident was a publicity stunt so Lauren can regain her former job. With all her dreams in front of her, Lauren's tempted by the offer, but as she and the old woman get to know each other, Lauren realizes nothing is quite as it seems.

My thoughts: I have enjoyed the previous books that I have read by Kathryn Cushman, so I was thrilled to have the chance to read and review her newest book! While I wouldn't say I was surprised by a lot of the events in the story, I really enjoyed the depth to the tale and the characters. The deep faith of some of the characters, which requires them to live out their faith even when it is difficult, is truly inspiring. Good fiction should inspire, which is exactly what this story is: a great story. I loved the glimpses of old Hollywood and modern day fashion designer. I also really liked the main character! This one is a winner.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

The Mother Letters

After his wife Amber had given birth to three boys in three years, Seth Haines saw that she needed encouragement in the day-to-day drama and details of motherhood. Secretly collecting nearly six hundred wise, honest, and sometimes hilarious letters from other mothers across the world, Seth compiled these "mother letters" as a gift for her. Amber and Seth have chosen the best of those letters--including letters from some of the most influential writers and bloggers online today--to include in a beautiful book perfect for the mother in your life.
Each mother-to-mother letter offers encouragement, advice, and vulnerable honesty about the struggles and joys of motherhood. These letters show that no matter how many times mothers feel like they've failed, they are still doing their greatest work. So for the mom who thinks she's the only one out there who just can't find time for a shower, "Mother Letters" shows her that she's part of a grand and diverse group of strong women who are saying to her, "Me too. But we can do this."

My thoughts: Mothering. One of the hardest, most rewarding jobs there is! Each child is so different, and just when I think I have something figured out, we hit a new stage or a new issue comes up. It's so easy to focus on the faults in oneself, so I found this book to be incredibly encouraging! It is just so nice to read some of the letters and realize that I am not alone! I think the one that touched me the most was about having grace with myself, though all the letters are amazing and wonderful reminders to slow down and remember that God made me the mother of my children for a reason.
With mother's day around the corner, I highly recommend giving this book as a gift to the mothers (especially mothers who still have children at home)in your life.
I received this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

The Reluctant Duchess

Lady Rowena Kinnaird may be the heiress to a Highland earldom, but she has never felt good enough—not for her father, not for the man she thought she’d marry, not for God. But after a shocking attack, she’s willing to be forever an outcast if it means escaping Loch Morar and the men who have jeopardized her life.

Brice Myerston, the Duke of Nottingham, has suddenly found himself in possession of a rare treasure his enemies are prepared to kill for. While Brice has never been one to shy away from manor-born ladies, the last thing he needs is the distraction of his neighbor, Lady Rowena, who finds herself in a desperate situation. But when the moody Earl of Lochabar tries to trap Brice into marrying Rowena, Brice finds he’s not as opposed to the idea as he expected to be.

Rowena wanted to escape the Highlands, but she’s reluctant to resort to marrying a notorious flirt just to gain his English home. And when she learns that Brice is mixed up in some kind of questionable business with a stolen treasure, she ’fears she’s about to end up directly in the path of everything she was trying to avoid.

My thoughts: This story is excellent! I wasn't so sure how I would like the direction it was heading in from the get go, but I love how the author wrote about beauty springing from tragedy and helping the reader to see some of the characters in a deeper way. I love the theme of religion and how folklore and curses fit in Christianity. Roseanna does a wonderful job of meshing Rowena's highland world to Brice's high society one. I appreciate the depth to this story and look forward to reading the next book in the series!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.