Showing posts with label Books for 2023. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Books for 2023. Show all posts

11.20.2023

From An Unknown Sender ~ Review

From an Unknown Sender JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for From an Unknown Sender 
by Traci Hunter Abramson and Sian Ann Bessey, 

From an Unknown Sender
From an Unknown Sender
Falcon Point Suspense #2
By Traci Hunter Abramson 
    and Sian Ann Bessey

CIA operative Cole Bridger is tracking down smugglers when fellow operative Isabelle Roberts, who also happens to be his girlfriend, diverts a package from its original destination. The only problem is that doing so puts Cole's cousin Tess in danger. 

Soon Tess's brother Lars and his girlfriend Merit are once again pulled into the clandestine and dangerous world that is Cole's life. As they try to determine exactly who or what is behind everything they find themselves getting even deeper into an international mess that could see them dead.

From an Unknown Sender brings the reader once again into the lives of the heirs of Falcon Point. But if you are unfamiliar with the previous books in this multi-author series no worries as this book can be read on its own. 

I love the interactions between Cole and Lars as they navigate their newly discovered familial link while having to deal with Cole's CIA ties and the obvious limits it puts on everything. This is a clean read that offers suspense and danger as both men deal with romance and the risks involved not only to their hearts but to the ones who hold them. I highly recommend this book and the series. I love the family aspects of this series which I believe is its greatest strength.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

 


About the Book

Title: From an Unknown Sender
Series:
Falcon Point Suspense #2
Author:
Traci Hunter Abramson & Sian Ann Bessey
Publisher:
Covenant Communications
Release Date:
November 21, 2023
Genre:
Clean Suspense

After spending a busy holiday season putting drug smugglers behind bars, CIA operative Cole Bridger is looking forward to spending a quiet Christmas in Vienna with his girlfriend and fellow operative, Isabelle Roberts. But when Isabelle is tasked with investigating a string of suspect financial transactions and redirects a suspicious package to a museum in Amsterdam, she inadvertently places Cole’s cousins in the crosshairs of a drug smuggling ring. 

Lars and Marit have no desire to be drawn into the deadly dealings of the criminal underworld, but when Lars’s sister, Tess’s, life is placed in danger, they willingly join Cole and Isabelle in their efforts to uncover the mastermind behind the drug smuggling ring. Unfortunately, the two couples’ involvement does not go unnoticed. And though each step brings them closer to the truth, they also reveal a startling picture of greed and corruption at the center of a dangerous organization that will stop at nothing to retrieve what it has lost.

PURCHASE LINKSGoodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

More Books in This Series

  The Danger with Diamonds


About the Authors

Traci Hunter Abramson  Sian Ann Bessy

Traci Hunter Abramson was born in Arizona, where she lived until moving to Venezuela for a study abroad program. After graduating from Brigham Young University, she worked for the Central Intelligence Agency, eventually resigning in order to raise her family. She credits the CIA with giving her a wealth of ideas as well as the skills needed to survive her children’s teenage years. She loves to travel and recently retired after twenty-six years coaching her local high school swim team. She has written forty-five best-selling novels and is an eight-time Whitney Award winner, including 2017 and 2019 Best Novel of the Year.

Connect with Traci by visiting traciabramson.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Sian Ann Bessey was born in Cambridge, England, and grew up on the island of Anglesey off the coast of North Wales. She left her homeland to attend university in the US, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communications, with a minor in English. She began her writing career as a student, publishing several articles in magazines while still in college. Since then, she has published historical romance and romantic suspense novels, along with a variety of children’s books. She is a USA Today best-selling author, a Foreword Reviews Book of the Year finalist, and a Whitney Award finalist.

Sian and her husband, Kent, are the parents of five children and the grandparents of three beautiful girls and two handsome boys. They currently live in southeast Idaho, and although Sian doesn’t have the opportunity to speak Welsh very often anymore, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch still rolls off her tongue. Traveling, reading, cooking, and being with her grandchildren are some of Sian’s favorite activities. She also loves hearing from her readers. 

Connect with Sian by visiting sianannbessey.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each win a $20 Amazon gift card!

From an Unknown Sender JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 20, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 27, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

11.19.2023

Of Sea and Smoke ~ Review

Of Sea and Smoke
The Fireborn Epic #2
By Gillian Bronte Adams

This is a fantastic read it follows within hours of the conclusion of book one Of Fire and Ash. And trust me when I say you have to read the series in order! There are so many stories and characters that have come together in this book that if you haven't read the first one, you will be utterly lost, much like Ceridwen finds herself in this book.

This story is from the viewpoints of several characters, all of whom seem destined to play a vital role in the war that has crossed the sea and engulfed more than one nation in the violent quest for power. Ceridwen is The Fireborn and the obvious heir to the throne but for the shame and debt she owes for her brother's death. Then there is Rafi who has been running for so long he doesn't have a place he truly can call home. At least not since the murder of his brother. And then there are his secrets and the lies he lives to hide them. But the one character who seems most shrouded is Jakim. Jakim who is far from his home. Born free, enslaved, freed, and enslaved yet again. He desires nothing more than to return home, yet he feels he has been called to this foreign land at this time for a reason.

From where Of Fire and Ash concluded one felt one had an idea where the story would go to next. Well, it did but then everything went all topsy-turvey and everything got shuffled around. If this hadn't happened so early in the book one would be in despair as to how the book would conclude. Well, it did happen early on, and greater depths were found in our main characters as they struggled to get back what was lost.

This book doesn't lack for anything. All of the characters have depth even those who may only be in it for one or two scenes. The settings are as vast as those seen between hemispheres and continents. There can be richness or starkness and each fits perfectly into place - a tribute to the author's years of work and research that had to go into this book.

I highly recommend this book either as a book in hand or an audio edition (I have both on preorder).

I was provided a complimentary advanced digital copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.




About the Book:
He rides a seablood, 
a steed of salt and spray, 
born to challenge the tides.

Six years ago, the wrong brother survived, and nothing will ever convince Rafi Tetrani otherwise. But he is done running from his past, and from the truth. As civil war threatens Ceridwen’s tenuous rule in Soldonia, Rafi vows to fight the usurper sitting on the imperial throne of Nadaar, even if it means shouldering his brother’s responsibilities as the empire’s lost heir.

The stolen shipload of magical warhorses offers just the edge he needs. But the steeds have been demanded in ransom by the emperor’s ruthless assassin, and if Rafi hopes to raise a band of riders, he must first outwit his brother’s murderer.

Yet when his best efforts end in disaster, and an audacious raid sparks an empire-wide manhunt, even forging an unexpected alliance might not be enough to help Rafi turn the tides, let alone outrace the wave of destruction intent on sweeping them all away.

Seas boil and jungles burn in this tempestuous second installment of The Fireborn Epic as the outcast queen, captive missionary, and royal rebel strive to unearth the mysterious power that hungers for their world.

11.17.2023

To Spark a Match ~ Review

To Spark a Match
The Matchmakers 
By Jen Turano

Miss Adelaide Duvee is a social disaster waiting to happen at almost every engagement she takes part in. And after five seasons of such incidents, she's doomed to not only spinsterhood but banishment from society. It's not her fault she had wardrobe malfunction, who knew bustles could be so dangerous. And swans, let's just not go there. And her unmentionables, well let's just say they set societies' tongues a wagging.

After Adelaide literally stumbles into Gideon Abbott's investigation, he feels a need to help her out. After all her distraction helped him to be unnoticed while putting her on the edge Society was threatening to shove her over. It's an obligation, it has nothing whatso ever to do with that little spark he felt while she figured out basically everything he was doing in mere minutes, nor that she had noticed him. Nope not at all.

This was a fun read. And it had lines that quite literally made me laugh out loud. I love the undercurrent of mystery and danger that grows as the story progresses. I love how Adelaide is walking mess and not some perfect Society piece with men falling at her feet. Well, they are falling but not from admiration exactly, more like from fear and self-preservation, at least before Gideon gets involved.

This is a Historical Rom-Com that will leave you with a feel-good mindset. This is the second book of The Matchmakers series but it easily can be read as a standalone title. Make room on your TBR List for this clean read. Or add it to your Wish List as it would a perfect gift to give or receive. So stake out your favorite reading corner and make plans for you and the book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations, but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.                                                          


 QUICK FACTS

 Title: To Spark a Match
 Series: The Matchmakers (Book 2)
 Author: Jen Turano
 Genre: Historical Romance, Gilded Age Fiction, Inspirational Fiction
 Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (November 14, 2023)
 Length: (368) pages
 Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, and Audiobook
 ISBN: 978-0764240218‎
 Tour Dates: November 13 – 21, 2023


BOOK DESCRIPTION

After five unsuccessful Seasons on the marriage mart, Miss Adelaide Duveen has
resigned herself to the notion that she's destined to remain a spinster forever--a rather
dismal prospect, but one that will allow her to concentrate on her darling cats and
books. However, when she inadvertently stumbles upon Mr. Gideon Abbott engaged in
a clandestine activity during a dinner party, Adelaide finds herself thrust into a world of
intrigue that resembles the plots in the spy novels she devours.

Former intelligence agent Gideon Abbott feels responsible for Adelaide after society
threatens to banish her because of the distraction she caused to save his investigation.
Hoping to return the favor, he turns to a good friend--and one of high society's leaders--
to take Adelaide in hand and turn her fashionable. When danger surrounds them and
Adelaide finds herself a target of the criminals in Gideon's case, the spark of love
between them threatens to be quenched for good--along with their lives.


PRAISE FOR TO SPARK A MATCH

 “Turano charms with her offbeat characters, and she has a knack for funny, flirty
dialogue…fans will find this irresistible.”— Publisher’s Weekly

 “Turano delivers a rousing second installment in her the Matchmakers historical
inspirational romance series set in New York's Gilded Age. This is a delightful
novel about individuality and unexpected love that balances humorous hijinks
and the intrigue of criminal activity within the rare book world. It shimmers with
spunk and stars a most admirable leading lady whose unapologetic acceptance
of herself is what refreshingly captivates her hero's heart."— Booklist

 “This book is full of ups and downs, twists and turns, hilarious encounters, slow
burn romance, bookish characters, cats and a dash of mystery! I highly
recommend it, friends!”— Tasha, Clean Read Book Club


PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES and NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB |

GOODREADS


AUTHOR BIO:

Named one of the funniest voices in inspirational romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today bestselling author known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publishers Weekly and Booklist starred reviews,
top picks from RT Book Reviews, and praise from Library Journal. She's been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers' Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. She and her family live outside of
Denver, Colorado.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X (FORMERLY TWITTER) | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

11.15.2023

It's Your Love ~ Review

It's Your Love JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for 
It's Your Love by Rachel D. Russell, 

It's Your Love

It's Your Love
Fox Family #2
By Rachel D. Russell

Sometimes things just seem to go wrong, and for Greyson Fox that seems to be the pattern his life is currently stuck in. So getting a call to help out at the camp that changed his life seems like an answer to something. Returning to Deep Haven was never on his to-do list, but it is a step towards fulfilling his dream.  What he never expected was seeing seeing Beth Strauss again.

She was the girl in high school who he left behind (though at the time he didn't know it- teenager and all that). Well lets just say their first meeting had a bookish tone to it. And then to top off everything she is about to be his boss for summer! Let's just say starting his youth ranch in Oregon is about to lose some of it's appeal.

Second chances at getting it right in Deep Haven are never easy. Nor is the path to finding love. And believe me there is more than one obstacle in the path of love and starting over.

This is a fun return to Deep Haven and the Fox family. But this time brother Greyson gets his chance. I love how the grandkids are slowly being drawn back home in this series. Maybe the saying you can't return home doesn't apply to Deep Haven, MN, because they seem more than willing to welcome back those who have left it behind. This is a sweet contemporary romance that will leave you in a happy place. So crack open the cover and settle down for another (or a first time visit) to a place you wouldn't mind calling home.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book

Title: It's Your Love
Series:
Fox Family #2
Author:
Rachel D. Russell
Publisher:
Sunrise Publishing
Release Date:
November 7, 2023
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

When Grayson Fox is asked to return home to Deep Haven and run the wrangler activities for the local camp, the last thing he expects is to run into the one woman he never wanted to see again. Worse…she’s his boss. But Grayson has big hopes for a life back in Oregon, and he must keep the promise to the camp in order to keep his dreams alive.

Just because Beth Strauss has stuck around Deep Haven doesn’t mean she doesn’t want a bigger life. And becoming the camp assistant director is the first step to that bigger life. Of course, standing in her way happens to be the one man who has always managed to derail her dreams, way too arrogant Grayson Fox. 

But if they want to keep the camp afloat and their dreams alive, these two must learn to work together. But will these enemies become sweethearts, and if they do, will they find something better than the dreams they’re striving for?  

The next delightful installment of the Fox Family series!

PURCHASE LINKSGoodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books in This Series

  The Way You Love Me


Rachel D. Russell

About the Author

Rachel D. Russell is a member of Oregon Christian Writers, My Book Therapy’s Novel Academy, and is a regular contributor to the Learn How to Write a Novel blog. When Rachel’s not cheering on one of her two teens at sporting events, she’s often interrogating her husband on his own military and law enforcement experience to craft believable heroes in uniform. The rest of her time is spent cantering her horse down the Oregon trails and redirecting her three keyboard-hogging cats.

Connect with Rachel by visiting racheldrussell.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a print copy of It's Your Love and $10 gift card to the Sunrise Shop!

It's Your Love JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 13, 2023, and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 20, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

11.14.2023

The Tiny Cyborg ~ Release Day

 Happy release day to The Tiny Cyborg!

  Today Jill Williamson_author and her son Luke celebrate the release of the third and final book in the RoboTales series! This is a science fiction chapter book series for readers 9 - 12, though the series has some older fans, as well. These are fairytale retellings combined with a helpful robot dog. Can you guess from the title which story The Tiny Cyborg is inspired by?



Here is the back cover description: 

▪  ▪  ▪  ▪ 

Darius is the youngest son of President Cassian. When his father goes missing on a planet with super-strong gravity, Darius is determined to rescue him. He makes a dangerous deal with scientist Dr. Fleed to become a cyborg in order to protect his body on the planet's surface. With the help of a robot dog, Darius sets out on his quest. Will he find his father in time? Or will Dr. Fleed take over the solar system and make cyborgs of them all?

▪  ▪  ▪  ▪  

The Tiny Cyborg is available on Jill's Bookstore, Barnes and Noble, and Amazon.com. Learn more at https://jillwilliamson.com/series/robotales.

To Heal a Broken Heart ~ Review

To Heal a Broken Heart
A Beauty and the Beast Retelling
The Shattered Tales
By Aveline Brooke

Anelise never expected to have her heart shattered by the man she had known for years. Nor did she expect to be forced into a marriage she didn't want. But she is looking at a future without love unless she can find someone who will make her a love potion.

But can she trick herself into a false happily-ever-after? But it looks like her only hope lies with the man who broke her heart. 

Lucien has been cursed since he broke the heart of the only woman he ever loved by a single act of betrayal. When he is given a chance to aid her, he does all he can at the cost of his own heart.       

This is truly a unique twist on Beauty and the Beast. There is a beast and what beast he is! But the question is what makes a man a beast? 

This is an interesting addition to the retellings of Beauty and the Beast and intriguing part of the Shattered Tales Collection. This is a book that can and should be judged by it's cover, you won't be disappointed. The characters and setting are engaging. This was an up-all-night kind of book in my opinion, and I was up all night reading it. I just had to know would Anelise find her heart's desire or would she settle for the lie?

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.



Book Description:
Love is not a fairytale.

Anelise is a romantic young lady who wants nothing more than a loving, faithful marriage, and she knows she has found her prince. Or, rather, her wizard. Her childhood friend Lucien is young, handsome, and shows promise as he trains to become the next Royal Enchanter. But when he breaks her heart in a shocking betrayal, Anelise’s entire perception of love — and the trustworthiness of men — is utterly shattered.

Months later, when Anelise is blackmailed into an engagement to a man who cares for monogamy as little as the dust on his boot, at first, she falls into despair. But then she realizes the one thing that can save her heart: a love potion.

To her surprise, all the nearby wizards refuse to make it, and Anelise is reduced to seeking help from the very man who hurt her the most.

But when she knocks on Lucien’s tower door, the masked wizard who answers it seems quite different from the boy she knew before.

Lucien is shocked to see Anelise at his door. Although it is the last thing he wants to do, Lucien knows that creating this love potion for her is the only chance he has at proving that he has changed… Until he realizes the disastrous reality that awaits her if she drinks it.

To Heal a Broken Heart is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. It is one of twelve novellas in The Shattered Tales, a collection of twelve fractured retellings of your favorite fairy tales. They can be enjoyed in any order, so fall in love with the swoony sweet romance, magical adventures, and tale-shattering twists one happily-ever-after at a time!

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C42JYR1Z

Related Series Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C46HX3PG

About the Author
Aveline Brooke discovered a great love for reading and writing fantasy from a young age, and it has been a constant source of joy since. Although she graduated with an Associate’s degree in digital design, she realized that her heart was in storytelling. She is always working and learning to become a more skilled writer.

Aveline is a proud Catholic who lives with her husband, son, and two cats in the American South. She values family, cultivating beauty in our daily lives, and good food. She is excited to share the journey as she gets closer to the official debut of her first novel, The Crown Prince Wretched.

Find her online at: Website || Goodreads || Instagram || Amazon


Add the Book to Goodreads

11.10.2023

Release Day for Riddle of Hearts

 It's Release Day for Riddle of Hearts! Enjoy Rosie Grymm's retelling of Alice in Wonderland is the 9th and final book in the A Classic Retold series.


Blurb: 

Bad bargains have bad consequences. 

As royal scribe for the Queen of Hearts, Alice Bishop has two duties: record the proceedings of the court and don’t ask questions. But if chronic tardiness and a constantly wandering mind didn’t make things hard enough, now a Madness has seized the court, turning normal gatherings into heated debates and gossip into whispered threats. Unsettling dreams plague Alice’s sleep and follow her into the waking world; white roses and a familiar clearing she’s sure she’s never seen before. 

 Finding answers becomes a matter of life and death after Alice uncovers the Queen’s terrible secret. Along with a mysterious and strangely familiar man, a heartless little boy, and her own relentless curiosity, Alice embarks on a quest through the Madness corrupted forests in search of the truth. But as each step reveals more of her hidden past, her search for answers becomes the discovery of a long forgotten question. One only she can answer…or Wonderland will be lost forever. 

In this imaginative retelling of Alice in Wonderland, Rosie Grymm tackles denial, regret, and responsibility with a (big) helping of classic Wonderland madness.


Available to purchase at Amazon.com: Riddle of Hearts: A retelling of Alice in Wonderland eBook : Grymm, Rosie : Kindle Store

Find the author on social media

Facebook @Rosie Grymm

Instagram @rosies_bookshelf


GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/168290630-riddle-of-hearts

AUTHOR WEBSITEhttps://www.aclassicretold.com/

AUTHOR BIO: Rosie Grymm is a young Christian writer who grew up traveling the world as a military kid. She developed her love of fairytales and mythology while taking family field trips to German castles and exploring Korean folk villages. Storytelling has always been prominent of her life. And when not writing she can be found reading her ever-growing pile of books or planning her next travel adventure. She currently lives in northern Illinois with her family and dog Cinder(ella).

11.08.2023

The Lord and the Lady Astronomer ~ Review

The Lord and the Lady Astronomer JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 
The Lord and the Lady Astronomer by Alissa Baxter, 


The Lord and the Lady Astronomer The Lord and the Lady Astronomer
 The Grantham Girls #3
 By Alissa Baxter

 Abigail Grantham is beyond pleased when her uncle, Lord Longmore, invites her to aid him in his newest astronomical endeavor. Abigail will  be helping her uncle and his neighbor, Viscount William Rochvale chart the night sky. While Abigail is more than happy to lend a hand, she hopes to observe a comet.

 William never expected to be intrigued by Lord Longmore's niece, but   Abigail is not only intelligent but beautiful and she shares several of the same interests that he does.  A potential romance seems likely, until Wiliam's less than suitable, flirtatious cousin Gerald Burnby decides to pay her particular attention. But Abigail, though drawn to Gerald"s looks and lively personality has been warned away about a potential suit from the rakish man by both her Aunt Longmore and cousin Henrietta.

What follows is a series of unfortunate misunderstandings that may stand in the way of everyone's future happiness. And add to it a bit of intrigue - mystery always makes everything better, except when there are misunderstandings about it.

This was a fun read as the youngest Grantham sister gets her chance to shine in her chosen passion - astronomy. If you love clean reading regency romance - here is a new addition to your Fall TBR list. Bump it to the top and curl up in a favorite corner - it's that good.

--------------------------------
                           

Title: The Lord and the Lady Astronomer
Series:
The Grantham Girls #3
Author:
Alissa Baxter
Publisher:
Dragonblade Publishing
Release Date:
November 1, 2023
Genre:
Regency/Historical Romance (Sweet, wholesome)

Can wishing upon a star ever come true? 

Abigail Grantham has always taken a keen interest in astronomy since her brother Sir John Grantham enlisted her aid as a young girl to keep records of his astronomical discoveries. Abigail is delighted when her uncle, Lord Longmore, invites her to stay at Longmore Hall in Buckinghamshire as he needs her assistance to compile a star chart. 

When Abigail arrives at the Hall, her Aunt Longmore introduces her to local society. However, Abigail also spends a great deal of time in her uncle’s observatory, viewing the night skies alongside her uncle’s neighbor, fellow astronomer William, Viscount Rochvale. 

Lord Rochvale is intrigued by Abigail, and when he discovers that they share an interest in ancient buildings and Roman history, he contrives to become better acquainted with her away from her uncle’s observatory, taking her to places of archaeological interest with a view to winning her heart. But the astronomical project they are working on makes courtship difficult, and William’s plans are further frustrated by his rakish cousin Gerald Burnby, who becomes a frequent visitor to Longmore Hall, seeking out Abigail too.  

After a valuable Roman urn disappears from Longmore Hall, a series of mysterious occurrences unravel, presenting a puzzle Abigail has no idea how to solve. However, when events escalate into peril, Abigail discovers that it is the night sky that holds the secret to the missing urn—as well as to her stolen heart.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

More Books In This Series

 


About the Author

Alissa Baxter

Alissa Baxter wrote her first Regency romance during her long university holidays. After travelling the world, she settled down to write her second Regency novel, which was inspired by her time living on a country estate in England. Alissa then published two chick lit novels before returning to her favourite era with her Linfield Ladies Series, a trio of Regency romances that feature women in trend-setting roles who fall in love with men who embrace their trailblazing ways... at least eventually. Her new Dragonblade trilogy, The Grantham Girls, continues this inspiring theme.

Alissa currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband and two sons.

Connect with Alissa by visiting alissabaxter.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card!

The Lord and the Lady Astronomer JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 6, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 13, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

11.07.2023

To Deceive a Kingdom ~ Review

To Deceive a Kingdom

A Princess & the Pea Retelling
(The Shattered Tales)
By Kathryn Radaker

Ceris never wanted to be a princess, much less pretend to be one. But an act of betrayal finds her in just such a position. Now her very good friend and member of the royal family, Evla, has Ceris caught in something she may not be able to get out of. How can she pretend to be a foreign princess who is come to work out the details of a royal alliance, so to speak, between the two countries? What's worse, she has to prove the power of her magic to even be considered worthy of this potential alliance. Ceris knows she doesn't have magic anywhere close to what a pure-blood, or near pure-blood, would possess. 

Aieldir is a disappointment to his family. As heir to the Lianthiran throne he is expected to be better than he is and expected to marry the expected Searon princess. When Evla manages to find the nearly drowned Searon princess, Aieldir is bothered by something. Something he can't quite place. But when he does, he'll be faced with a decision - reveal what he knows, bide his time, or help the "princess" in her efforts.

To Deceive a Kingdom is part of the Shattered Tales series and is based on the Princess and a Pea. This is a unique retelling in that the revelation of personal magic is the test. And what a series of tests for someone who believed she could not perform such tasks. I found this to be a good read as the story unfolded, I was drawn deeper into it. This was definitely a late-night type of book, which isn't so good when you have an early morning (as in before 5:00 a.m. with less than 2 hours of sleep), but it was so worth the late afternoon lag!  This was the first book I've read by Kathryn Radaker, and look forward to more stories from her in the future. Fae, magic, and secrets what could be better - a touch of romance, of course, all while facing insurmountable difficulties!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:
Magic is dying. Everyone is lying.

Ceris is quite content in her role as a horse trainer’s assistant by day and medicinal smuggler by night. But when one of her closest friends betrays her and draws her into a plot of her own, Ceris has to pretend to be a foreign princess to save her smuggling ring…and herself. She may have to go so far as to marry the prince if she can’t find a way out of her friend’s scheme.

Aieldir was born a reluctant secret-keeper and raised to be King of the Lianthiran Fae. But his kingdom’s magic is weakening, and rumors of revolt are circulating. As the heir to the throne, the burden to marry a powerful princess from Searon and secure his kingdom’s future weighs heavily on his shoulders. But when his mysterious “princess” shows up half-drowned, he soon suspects she’s not who she claims to be.

Will Ceris let down her wall of deception long enough to see the man beneath the crown? Can Aieldir possibly put his future—and his heart—in the hands of a fraud? Or will their schemes and secrets shatter their fragile trust, dooming their kingdom as well as their own happily-ever-after?

Suspended in the Stars ~ Review

Suspended in the Stars
Xerus Galaxy Saga #1
By E.A. Hendryx

When word reaches the Phenomena, aboard the circus spaceship Midway, that the Queen is dead, Talie must mask her true feelings that the news has awoken in her. Avoiding distractions is vital to her role as the Soaring Staress. One mistake could send her crashing to the ground. And that could be so very bad in more ways than one. 

In the midst of her private thoughts, she is confronted by Renner Cartha, a rogue royal guard seeking refuge aboard the Midway. Not his best-thought-out plan but what he has to work with. Convincing Talie to help him just might be a little more difficult than he expected. Talie is determined to help, but Renner has to agree to her method of hiding him among the rest of the circus. Can you say fake romance?

But nothing is ever easy, and soon Renner and Talie have to stay two steps ahead of someone who seems uniquely talented in tracking Renner. But Renner is on a mission, a mission that is of vital importance. One that could determine the fates of many. (Cue dramatic music)

This book pulled me in from the first page. Each successive chapter added a new layer to the depth and intrigue of the story. There are secrets being kept by both Talie and Renner, which just adds to the intrigue. One has to wonder just what is so important to keep hidden. I have to admit I love space-themed adventure sci-fi fantasy that is well-written. And if there is a hint or two of romance or the potential of one even better. This book hits all of those little things that make for a book that I look forward to rereading. Even better, this is the first book in the Xerus Galaxy Saga, and I, for one, can't wait to get my hands on book two. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:
A girl in hiding. A boy on the run. The fate of the galaxy between them.
When Talie Zarna is forced to hide rogue soldier, Renner Cartha, her life isn't the only thing threatened. Living as the famed Soaring Staress on the circus spaceship Midway masks her true identity, but Renner's very presence threatens to draw unwanted attention.

11.04.2023

To Win Her Kiss

To Win Her Kiss
The Brookshire Brothers #2
By Miranda D. Nelson

Maggie York is about to go to London, the only problem is that her elder brother insists that it be now during the Christmas season. Not that she has a problem with being in London mind you, she just worries about her two younger sisters who will be without any family during this time.

Matthew Reed, Maggie's London neighbor, has no excitement about London or his ordered stay there over Christmas. But there are expectations, and his father is insistent that he do his duty and represent the family at this time. Even more upsetting, his father expects him to seriously apply himself to finding a wife.

Two more different people could not be expected to form an attachment, much less a friendship. But when Maggie finds herself in an entanglement, she needs Matthew's assistance in freeing herself. Slowly the two form a neighborly understanding over their shared hedge. Though, in all honesty, Matthew is a big grouch most of the time, and his manners in society lack big time. But somehow, when Maggie most needs his help, he offers it. 

Matthew makes it clear he will never love. Unfortunately, his declaration just might be the thing that breaks Maggie's spirit and her heart. Can a curmudgeon change his mind and not only find love but win it in return? Matthew is determined to do all he can after getting embroiled in a scandal that has London Society's tongues wagging. 

This is a sweet story set during the Christmas season. Can love be found after a marriage of convenience? This is a story of second chances and new beginnings. I have to say Matthew's former friends are quite the troublemakers. This is the first book by Miranda Nelson that I have read, and look forward to reading the rest of this series. The few glimpses I got of Matthew's brothers, I really look forward to learning more about them. 

Though there are ups and downs, overall, I'd say this is a book that leaves one with a feel-good frame of mind. So if you want a good clean read with a hint of scandal, some family drama, and lots of Christmas fun, you'll want to read To Win Her Kiss

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book:
If he was going to ruin her reputation, he might as well make it clear that was what he was doing.

Matthew Reed would rather be anywhere but London this Christmas, and nothing but his duty to his father could keep him there. Though he anticipates a dreadful holiday of forced socialization, he does not expect his animated neighbor who is as beautiful as she is aggravating. As he attempts to navigate London society while keeping himself protected from his past, he begins to question whether everyone is as self-serving as he supposed.

On the other hand, Maggie York could not be more excited to reenter society, and at Christmas no less! Though confused by her brother’s increased sway over her, she is determined to enjoy herself. She soon finds herself just as determined to know her neighbor better, a gentleman who is as surly as he is intriguing.

When an unwanted marriage proposal makes Maggie scramble for another solution, Matthew’s unexpected idea may be her best chance. As Christmas draws nearer, Matthew and Maggie must brave society and rely on each other to find their happy ending.

11.03.2023

Release Day for To Kill the Dawn

It's Release Day for Kill the Dawn! Enjoy Emily Hayse's retelling of Hamlet as the 8th book in the A Classic Retold series.


Blurb: 

After a devastating wound and the loss of his beloved father, Hakkr is trying to pick up the pieces of his life. But when his father's last conquest, a mysterious thrall, shares a terrible secret, Hakkr's life only further unravels as incident after incident leads him to the chilling realization that his people's enemies are not the only ones who want him dead. Set in a wild northern world of wolf-hunts and Viking warfare, Kill the Dawn is a breathtaking new retelling of Shakespeare's Hamlet, full of heart, beauty, and bittersweet sacrifice.


Available to purchase at https://www.amazon.com/Kill-Dawn-Emily-Hayse-ebook/dp/B0CF872CMK?

Find the author on social media

Facebook @EmilyHayse

Instagram @theherosinger

Twitter @theherosinger)


BLURB:

After a devastating wound and the loss of his beloved father, Hakkr is trying to pick up the pieces of his life. But when his father's last conquest, a mysterious thrall, shares a terrible secret, Hakkr's life only further unravels as incident after incident leads him to the chilling realization that his people's enemies are not the only ones who want him dead. Set in a wild northern world of wolf-hunts and Viking warfare, Kill the Dawn is a breathtaking new retelling of Shakespeare's Hamlet, full of heart, beauty, and bittersweet sacrifice.




GOODREADS LINKhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/168128759-kill-the-dawn

AUTHOR WEBSITE: https://emilyhayse.com/

11.01.2023

Deadly Yellowstone Secrets ~ Review

Deadly Yellowstone Secrets JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for 
Deadly Yellowstone Secrets by Kari Trumbo, 

Deadly Yellowstone Secrets
Deadly Yellowstone Secrets
By Kari Trumbo

Rumors have a way of getting some of the truth right. And Yellowstone's say someone on the inside is helping poachers. And when a poacher hunting one of the bears Tamala Roth is studying sees her, she suddenly becomes his newest target. 

Yellowstone Ranger Clint Jackson is determined to stop the hunter who has made the national park his hunting grounds. And to do that he'll have to keep Naturalist Tamala Roth safe. But Tamala can't identify her hunter, but there is something about him-something familiar. 

As Clint and Tamala fight to stay alive and ahead of the poachers their efforts are hindered by an incoming blizzard. Can they survive and discover who is desperate enough to brave a blizzard to silence her? And who do they trust?

Deadly Yellowstone Secrets definitely keeps the suspense going full force and I loved how there was this natural distrust between the rangers and the naturalists. This played well into the poachers' hands while adding an additional unknown into the mix. This is part of the Love Inspired Suspense Inspirational Romance series which means this is a clean read so no gory, graphic details to keep you up at night. And the romance is sweet. Overall, this is a highly recommended book in my opinion. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.


About the Book

Title: Deadly Yellowstone Secrets
Author:
Kari Trumbo
Publisher:
Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: October 24, 2023
Genre:
Christian Romantic Suspense

Yellowstone National Park hides a secret 
                                         and uncovering it could be fatal. 

Someone’s hunting bears in Yellowstone National Park—and now Tamala Roth’s the next mark. With a killer at her heels, Tamala must trust Ranger Clint Jackson to safeguard her while searching for the poacher. But when a blizzard traps them in with a criminal who will stop at nothing to silence them, survival becomes a dangerous game.  

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

PURCHASE LINKSGoodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub


About the Author

Kari Trumbo

Kari Trumbo is an international bestselling author of historical and contemporary romance and romantic suspense. She makes her home in Minnesota - where lakes and frigid temps are plentiful - with her family and husband of over twenty years. Reading, listening to contemporary Christian music, singing when no one's listening, and curling up near the wood stove when winter hits are her favorite things. She loves chatting on social media, so be sure to look her up.

Connect with Kari by visiting karitrumbo.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.


Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed print copy of Deadly Yellowstone Secrets and a $25 visa gift card!

(1) winner will win a signed print copy of Deadly Yellowstone Secrets and a signed print copy of Operation: Restoration!

Deadly Yellowstone Secrets JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 1, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 8, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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