Sanctuary and Sabotage ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for 

Sanctuary and Sabotage by Lori DeJong, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Sanctuary and Sabotage 
Guarded Hearts #2 
By Lori DeJong 

Guilt over a failed mission finds Trevor Paxton returning to his hometown of Bandry, Texas, but when an emergency finds him reconnecting with a childhood friend after sixteen years, he's more than shocked at the changes in her life. Kinsley Talbot has taken over her late father's veterinary practice, turning it into a world-class operation. She's no longer the pigtailed tomboy who tagged along with her big brother Eli, and Trevor's best friend.

When a series of suspicious incidents start occurring at Kinsley's clinic, Trevor suspects someone has nefarious intentions and is targeting Kinsey or her clinic. The question is who and why. Soon Trevor has a list of possible suspects who have motives, but can he convince Kinsey to let him help her with what he does best?

Sanctuary and Sabotage is the second book in the Guarded Hearts series and is as good as the first book, but it can be enjoyed without reading the first book. This is one book I kept reading wanting to get the end just to find out who was trying to hurt or destroy Kinsey. And then waiting for Kinsey and Trevor admit to each other what was weighing so heavily on their hearts and minds, I was like, "Just say something, it's obvious that they know you are not admitting what is really bothering you." But overall, this was a good read that I'm pleased to recommend if you are looking a new Romantic Suspense option to add to your TBR pile.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Sanctuary and Sabotage 
Series: Guarded Hearts #2 
Author: Lori DeJong 
Publisher: Scrivenings Press 
Release Date: September 15, 2026 
Genre: Romantic Suspense

The greatest threat isn’t the enemy outside—it’s the secrets between them. 

Protection Specialist Trevor Paxton returns to his Texas hometown carrying the weight of a mission gone wrong. Seeking sanctuary at his family’s ranch, he never expects danger to follow him into the life of Dr. Kinsley Talbot, the once-freckled tomboy now fighting to save her family’s land and the veterinary clinic that is her future. 

When Kinsley’s clinic is sabotaged and her barn goes up in flames, Trevor’s instincts tell him she's in danger. But Kinsley refuses his help, determined to protect her family’s legacy without revealing the secret that could bring it all down. 

As threats close in and old feelings rekindle, Trevor makes a quiet choice that could cost him her trust. To save Kinsley, he’ll have to expose his own subterfuge—and convince her that love sometimes means standing guard, even from the shadows. 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More in This Series

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About the Author

Lori DeJong (pronounced DeeYung) is an award-winning contemporary Christian romance author who enjoys penning stories full of grace and the redemptive power of God’s love that inspire others to hope regardless of circumstance, find joy in the moment, and grow in their faith.

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Lori arrived in Texas in 2005 and dug those roots right in. She currently resides in beautiful Georgetown, north of Austin, with her husband of thirty years. Other than their two fur-babies, their nest is empty, as their daughter and son-in-law are settled in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. 

Lori loves to write about love and romance with a touch of suspense, with a firm foundation of faith. Clean but sassy, sparkly, and even goose-bumpy romance, with God in the middle and characters seeking and learning and changing, couldn’t be more heartwarming or spine-tingly. 

Lori is an ACFW Genesis Award winner, four-time Selah Award finalist, two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, has been awarded an Angel Award, and placed second in the FHL Reader's Choice Awards. She's also a member of several organizations, including ACFW, Faith, Hope, and Love Christian Writers, Novel Academy, CenTex Christian Writers, among others. You can visit Lori at https://loridejongwrites.com and sign up for her newsletter for writing updates, book recommendations, a monthly giveaway, and more.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card plus a signed copy of both Mistletoe and Malice and Sanctuary and Sabotage!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 5, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 12, 2026. Winners 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

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

Cascade ~ Review

Cascade

The Waterfall Mysteries #3

By Linda K. Rodante

The book opens with Sid Martin and his friend Richard climbing a Waterfall early one morning while Christa Henson feels an internal prodding to head to the same area. What follows is a double shooting and unanswered questions about who and why that Sid and Christa decide to investigate. 

Now this book has two main characters with a whole lot of baggage in their pasts and of course it plays into the current day. Sid and Christa develop feelings during the course of their investigation, an investigation that brings them into even more danger. There are bears, killers, and a bunch of angry people who may or may not be involved in the initial shooting.

This was a shorter read that would appeal to readers who don't wants lots of graphic descriptions. I found the romance to be a bit rushed and had a bit more kissing than I prefer, but nothing overly descriptive, just my personal comfort reading level preferrence.

I will say that it was not surprising that the victim (not Sid's friend Richard) was shot, not that I think that is the answer to handling anything, but I could see how it happened. The guy was a jerk, and that is being kind. 

There are references to past relationships that were not chaste, nothing is shown just referenced. Additional issues that are referenced include spouse loss and drinking which the MCs are dealing with and are major points in their pasts that find them in the here and now of this book.

I have not read the previous books in this series but was able to easily read Cascade as a standalone title.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations all thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

A fresh start in the Tennessee mountains was supposed to bring peace. 

Instead, it brought a killer.

Crista Henson fled to a quiet Tennessee town to rebuild her shattered life, trading her past for a fresh start as a vacation planner and a deeper reliance on God. She wants peace. Instead, she finds herself tangled in a deadly web of secrets with enough suspects to challenge Hercule Poirot himself. She never planned on playing amateur sleuth—and she certainly didn't plan on Sid Martin.

Sid is running from his own devastating past, swearing off the wilderness forever.
But when a friend lures him back, a desperate cry for help and a brutal attempted murder force him to confront his guilt and his fears.

As their investigation expands and danger closes in, can Crista and Sid narrow the suspects in time to prevent their own demise?

Clean Romance
Brainy Mystery
Multiple suspects
Twists and turns
Suspense
Small town
Tennessee mountains
Rock climbing
Beautiful waterfalls
Swoony hero
Strong, relatable heroine
Faith and forgiveness

Lorelei and the Traveler ~ Review

Lorelei and the Traveler

Once by Shore #2

By Sienna Peak

Author Sienna Peak has done it again, creating a delightfully engaging story that will enchant you. Well, I hope it does.

Lorelei Baird and her father are gathering a collection of stories, oral histories in rural Prussia, when Trig Hillam and Mr. Davies happen upon them. Trig is on his grand tour of Europe before he should take on the responsibilities of life. But Lorelei and the Prussian countryside have him, for once, not eager for his next adventure. Instead, he decides to help the Bairds with their project. 

I loved when the group went to Herr Muller to hear his tales. It was an unusual experience for them; a trade, if you will, for the stories he kept. I refuse to say more because it must be enjoyed as written without giving away any hints.  

This book can be enjoyed over a long afternoon and be read as a standalone without having read the previous one in the series. This series is a retelling of lesser-known fairy tales and legends tied to water. I love how there is a Regency aspect to them that further ties the stories together by era rather than a set locale.

This story offers a clean, wholesome, no-spice story that is suitable, in my opinion, for younger teens and up.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Where fairy tale charm meets Regency romance

Trig Hillam has been (almost) happily avoiding his impending responsibilities, spending time exploring and scaling mountains during his Grand Tour. Everything changes when he stumbles upon a beautiful young woman seated atop a rocky cliff. For the first time in months, Trig finds a reason to stay put, finding joy in a new project and especially in his growing connection to the mysterious young woman.

Lorelei Baird has spent her life helping her father collect and preserve folktales and oral histories throughout rural Prussia. Though she enjoys her work, she longs to find her place, yet she struggles to trust again after suffering an unexpected betrayal by her father's handsome assistant.

When a dangerous threat resurfaces, will Trig and Lorelei find their true place is with one another?

Lorelei and the Traveler is part of the Once by a Shore series of Regency fairy tale retellings inspired by water-based fairy tales and legends. The stories in the series are clean and wholesome and can be enjoyed in a single afternoon. Each story is a stand-alone work and may be read in any order.

Available to purchase from Amazon.

Sabotage Games ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

Sabotage Games by Danielle Grandinetti, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Sabotage Games 
Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency #3 
By Danielle Grandinetti 

First off can I just say, I love the cover of this book. Oh wait, I just did. But it is super cute and works so well with the main character's love of sports. Emma Hancock loves sports, especially baseball, and she is super excited that she will be reporting from the third Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. As a female sports journalist, she's thrilled with the opportunity.

But soon she is putting her investigative skills to a much bigger task when various athletes are forced out of their competitions. Conveniently timed illnesses seem too suspicious in Emma's journalistic mind.  

So, what's girl to do?

Investigate, of course.

If you loved girl sleuths of the past, think Nancy Drew, Donna Parker, Trixie Belden, and Brenda Starr (used bookstore junky here), you will love Emma Hancock, the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency, and their journalists. 

But there is more to this book than Emma Hancock and the investigative nature it delved into. We are introduced to the Callahan family, Ryan who is competing as a speed skater and Meg who is demonstrating the same sport in the hopes it will become an official Olympic sport in the next Olympic Games.  The Callahan family opened their home to Emma and her fellow journalist, Lena Carney, so that they would have a safe place to stay during their time away from Chicago.

As Ryan and Emma begin working together they discover an unexpected connection that could lead to something more. But both have plans for their future and live in different areas of the country. But as a friend points out to Ryan, he's an athlete hoping to compete in the Summer Games in Los Angeles later that year and Emma is a sports journalist. I have say it was strange thinking of Olympic taking place in the same year, I mean I know it used to be that way, but not for awhile.

I found the mystery aspect of this story interesting and was a tad shocked when a climactic moment occurred - let's just say I never saw it coming. Overall, I give this book a resounding Must Read to Reread vote. A want to reread is the ultimate like of a book in my opinion.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Sabotage Games 
Series: Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency #3 
Author: Danielle Grandinetti 
Publisher: Hearth Spot Press 
Release Date: September 22, 2026 
Genre: Historical Romantic Mystery

Who will pay the ultimate price for Olympic Gold? 

LAKE PLACID, N.Y., 1932—Sports journalist Emma Hancock is determined to claim her place in the press box, despite the male colleagues who slam the door in her face. But when a mysterious illness begins systematically sidelining athletes, Emma’s gift for spotting patterns reveals a plot far more sinister than mere competition. 

With the Games in his own backyard, Olympic sprinter Ryan Callahan laces up his speed skates to compete in his first winter games. He has no time for distractions—especially not the inconvenience of the beautiful female journalist staying as a guest in his family’s crowded home. 

But when the pattern of sabotage deepens, Emma and Ryan must work together to follow the threads before they become the next targets to fall. 

La Verità con Integrità. 

Truth with Integrity. 

The Legacy of a (Girl) Stunt Reporter.  

A 1930s Historical Romantic Mystery This page-turning novel offers a sweet, slow-burn romance mixed with cozy suspense. Set during the historic III Olympic Winter Games—the first year women’s speed skating was featured—it unfolds against the snow-covered, high-stakes press boxes of Lake Placid, New York, in 1932. Perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen and J’nell Ciesielski looking for an inspirational read.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Danielle Grandinetti's Shop | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More in This Series

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About the Author

Danielle Grandinetti writes award-winning 1930s historical romantic mystery and suspense. She is the 2026 Holt Medallion winner and a second-generation Italian-American. Fueled by tea and nature, she crafts hope-filled historical romance novels exploring immigrant heritage, found family, and cozy Midwest traditions. Find her at daniellegrandinetti.com.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a paperback copy of Undercover Wish & Eyewitness Sketch!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 22, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 29, 2026. 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

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

Watched ~ Review

Watched

The Windy City Westons #3

By Jerusha Agen

"Some things are worth risking everything for." I loved this quote when I came across it while reading Watched.  In this book, we focus on big brother Robert Weston, who finds himself facing a malpractice lawsuit after a tragic incident involving one of his patients. While dealing with this situation, Robert begins experiencing some troubling memory issues, issues that he fears may be signs of something life-altering and debilitating.

Monty Montgomery is ready to dislike Robert Weston; after all, it was his testimony that destroyed her client's life and practice. She is more than a little surprised that he seems like a genuinely nice guy. But when he 

But something more is happening, something that could get Robert, his attorney, and his siblings killed. Can Robert, Monty, and the rest of the Westons discover who is behind these attacks and stop whoever it is before it is too late? 

I love that this time the main non-Weston character has such a great family behind her. That being said, I hope the Montgomery family of lawyers is back in the spotlight. I loved the dynamics between them as they worked together, lived really close together, and, unlike the Westons, shared an extra bond because of their beliefs as Christians. 

I have to say the Weston family gets themselves into some real doozies of a mess, and Wasted is no exception. I'm looking forward to the next Windy City Westons release as we are down to Hank and Tereese.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

His mind is a steel trap. He didn’t know it could trap him.

Robert Weston became a psychiatrist to heal people’s minds. He can’t lose his. But if the strange occurrences of forgetfulness and confusion continue, he may not be able to hide the truth much longer. When his psychological issues put his life in danger, he must face the reality that the genetic nightmare he fears inheriting has seized him.

Attorney Monty Montgomery doesn’t trust Robert Weston. His expert testimony once ruined her client’s case. She didn’t realize the psychiatrist isn’t only wrong but also completely unreliable. How can she defend him against a malpractice suit for the insurance company that hired her when he’s clearly incompetent?

Robert and Monty have bigger problems than they know. Someone has a mission. A mission that won’t be stopped until somebody ends up dead.

Is everyone a pawn in the lethal game, or is Robert’s failing mind playing tricks on him? Even with the help of the Weston siblings, Robert and Monty may need a mind smarter than theirs—the mind of God—to escape this twisted game alive.

Watched is Book Three in the thrilling Windy City Westons Christian romantic suspense series that features five siblings who encounter danger, love, and God in the city of Chicago. (Each book can stand alone or be read as series installments.)

If you enjoy psychological twists, enemies-to-lovers romance, and faith-infused reads that bring you closer to God, then you’ll love Jerusha Agen’s spine-tingling suspense novel.

The Christmas Book Flood ~ Audiobook Review

The Christmas Book Flood 
By Roseanna M. White

Narrated by Talon David

This was such a fun read/listen as a surprising number of books ordered for Christmas nearly overwhelms a small publishing company. With a coming together, the staff manages to fulfill every order that comes pouring in. While at the same time a young woman - Tatiana Eliasdottir, who is secretly a writer, connects with Anders Johannsson - a fellow writer (and her editor - she knows who he is, but he's in the dark) over her young niece and the scurry of making Iceland's readers happy with a book-filled Christmas during the trying days under the threat of war (WW2 - 1944).

In this story, the publisher Tatiana and Anders work for is a small, self-contained community of co-workers who pull together to ensure no reader is disappointed during the Christmas season. Along the way new friendships are forged and the seeds for romance are planted, sprout, and bloom.

About the Book:

In this charming World War II historical romance novella inspired by Iceland’s Christmas Book Flood, an author falls in love with a man who doesn’t know he is her editor.

Iceland. December 1944. Tatiana Eliasdottir is looking forward to welcoming her niece Elea for Christmas. She’s determined to give the little girl a joyful holiday and take her mind off troubles at home. Soon, however, the publishing house where Tatiana works is flooded with orders thanks to the first issue of a seasonal book catalog. With the war causing so many shortages, Icelanders are eager to give their loved ones something that isn’t rationed, and books are the perfect solution to their dilemma.

Anders Johannsson is an editor who shares Tatiana’s love for stories. While he wishes to know her better, he’s never dared pursue more than friendship. They are first and foremost colleagues. But when Tatiana’s attempts to cheer Elea fail, Tatiana recruits him to help, a plea he can’t refuse. He is, after all, not only an editor but a beloved children’s book author and devoted uncle to his adoring nieces and nephews.

As the two creatively bring Icelandic Christmas traditions to life for Elea and frantically work to meet the demands of the publisher’s holiday rush, Tatiana finds herself increasingly drawn to kind, thoughtful Anders. But if a love is to grow between them, she will need to reveal her closely held she is the mysterious author of a popular new novel . . . and Anders is her editor.

High Exposure ~ Review

High Exposure

Jagged Edges #1

By Kelly Borjas

Julia Stevens is running from the past and its pain as a travel blogger. She promised to return home after two years; her assignment in Silverberg, Colorado, will be her last. But when she discovers a body, she finds herself determined to learn more about the man and how he died. She owes it to him and her late sister. But Cade Haskins, Julia's guide for the duration of her stay, seems determined to thwart her attempts, but Julia is not about to let him keep her from doing what she feels she needs to do.

Cade Haskins's life is overwhelming. He feels like he failed everyone on his last mission with the DEA. His dad has cancer, so he's filling in for him at the Silverberg Hotel, and now he is stuck showing a travel blogger all the places to explore and experience in Silverberg. What he didn't expect was her determination to become a journalist, leading her into a potential meth ring, or his feelings for her (something he does not have time for). 

But dangerous situations keep popping up wherever Julia is. Is it just coincidence, or has someone targeted her? Cade is convinced that it is the meth lab operation she unknowingly stumbled upon. And he can't warn her about the potential danger she's in because of his past and current associations with the DEA. But how do you keep someone safe without revealing the truth about what they have stumbled upon? That is the newest worry keeping Cade awake way too late and waking him way too early. 

There are tons of twists, so it is really hard to determine who is the villain in this book. Seriously, there were so many possibilities that the reveal was legitimately good, in a bad sort of way, because you know killer.

This is an intriguing debut novel that has intrigued me enough that I want to see what happens in book two, for which there was a teaser. 

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own. 

About the Book:

This riveting start to an adventure-driven romantic suspense series from a debut author

Determined travel blogger Julia Stevens is on her final assignment in snowy Silverberg, Colorado. She's running from her past—and God—but the charm of small-town life brings little comfort when she's face-to-face with the winter sport that killed her sister: skiing. Upon her arrival in town, she discovers a dead body and is quickly compelled to research the situation, give justice to the man's story, and kick off her new career in journalism.

Cade Haskins is back home after a failed mission and his subsequent retirement from the DEA. His father's declining health has pushed Cade to prioritize family, and he helps at the historic Silverberg Hotel on his dad's behalf. When Julia shows up at the hotel, Cade becomes her local contact. He quickly realizes she has a knack for sniffing around where she shouldn't, and he attaches himself to her side.

With the local death connected to a meth ring, Julia's investigation has unknowingly put a target on her back. As the danger increases and she begins to learn more about Cade and his family, she finds herself trusting the God she was running from. And Cade? He doesn't want to get dragged back into DEA work, but it seems like he may not have a choice if he wants to protect Julia . . . and his growing attraction to her.

Connect with the author at her website.

Son of Embers ~ Review

Son of Embers

Blood of Kings: Legends #6

By Jill Williamson and Niki Florica

Okay, first off, you have to read the previous books in the Blood of Kings: Legends series. Okay, okay, you don't have to, but you should so you understand the various references to past events. And because it is a series that builds on the story that came before. And they are all really good. 

In this book, we have three main characters who couldn't be more different.  There is Mezaedo Chevyah, who has spent much of his life as a slavey to a whole plethora of masters and he isn't that old. Then we have Erro Coble, the named heir of a man who was evil and who may or may not be an enemy of the Kingsguard. And last, but by no means least, is Lady Halona Pitney, who is trying to find out the truth about her grandmother's death. And she wears slippers that come equipped with poison, and she's not afraid to use them. 

These three need to get out of Har Sha'ar because they may or may not have bounties on their heads, or, at least Mezaedo does, and it may be tied to something from his past. A past that Erro may know something about. But when betrayal comes calling, Mezaedo and Halona are on their own trying to get out of a land that is filled with people hunting them. Never a pleasant thing. 

This was such a good book, both tragic and triumphant at the same time. This book is hard to describe in a way that does it justice without giving too much away. But whatever you do, do not jump to the end. This is a story that must unfold chapter-by-chapter to experience and appreciate it fully. And the ending - WOW!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

He's the slave a dozen masters threw away.

She's the lady no one in Er'Rets knows what to do with.

Now, they're both wanted by a town full of traitors… and one another's best chance of escape.

Born to serve, slave-turned-squire Mezaedo Chevyah was sent to Har Sha'ar with a simple plan: investigate a noblewoman's disappearance, and prove to the Kingsguard that he's worth keeping. Instead, he finds a bounty on his head, the voice of a dead villain stirring in the back of his mind, and two unlikely allies — one, a traitor, the other a lady as strange as her poison-toed slippers.

Lady Halona Pitney — anomaly, herbalist, and self-proclaimed harbinger of chaos — came back to Har Sha'ar to find her missing grandmother and confront her childhood friend, Erro Coble. But Erro has changed, and the secrets he's keeping are the kind that get people killed. So when he asks her to help him smuggle a wounded squire out of the village — alive — how can she refuse?

Forced into an alliance no one wants, Mezaedo, Halona, and Erro have one chance to escape Har Sha'ar alive before every bounty hunter in the mountains closes in. But the wilderness beyond the walls hides a darkness worse than any of them imagined. Loyalties will fracture. Secrets will surface. And what's growing between the squire and the lady may cost more than they know how to pay.

To survive what waits, Mezaedo and Halona will have to trust each other — and the God who carried them this far — before the dark swallows everyone they came to save.

Two unlikely hearts. 

Enemies on every side. 

A faith that may be the only thing left standing.

From the bestselling fantasy author of the Blood of Kings and Kinsman Chronicles, Son of Embers is a stand-alone, faith-forward romantasy set in Jill Williamson's beloved Er'Rets — perfect for readers who enjoy slow-burn romance wrapped in quirky characters, courageous faith, and prose that crackles like a hearth in a winter storm.

Blood of Kings: Legends

Book 1: Squire of Truth

Book 2: Lord of Winter

Book 3: Lady of Shadows

Book:4: Heir of Light

Book 5: Queen of Reckoning

Book 6: Son of Embers

Book 7: Guardian of Hope (Coming Nov 2026)

Book 8: Shield of Honor (Coming Feb 2027)

About the Authors:

Jill Williamson is a multi-passionate creative who loves the arts. She’s written
over two dozen books for readers of all ages and is best known for her Blood of
Kings fantasy series, two of which won Christy Awards and made VOYA
magazine’s Best Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror list. She produces films
with her husband and teaches about writing at conferences. Visit her at
jillwilliamson.com.

Niki Florica is a full-time story addict and advocate for all things epic. She
believes Latin is immortal, dreams of being in a musical number (or a K-
drama—whichever comes first), and writes to stir the part of our hearts that God
has stamped with eternity. Catch her between writing sessions or overseas
adventures and she’s probably in the clouds; the glassy stare will give her away.
Find Niki on YouTube at Niki Florica. For more information, visit her at
nikiflorica.com.

The Ballerina's Bargain ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

The Ballerina's Bargain by Lorri Dudley, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

The Ballerina's Bargain 

Danforth Theatre #1 

By Lorri Dudley 

Emmeline Laurent has spent most of her life dancing and hiding. Her parents were victims of a betrayal during the French Revolution, and since then she and her guardian have been hiding her identity, never staying anywhere if danger came near. And Emmeline dances, her skill unmatched, though she stays in the shadows, never a lead dancer. She shares her love of dance with the petite ballerinas as their instructor. But when the future of the Danforth Theatre is in doubt, she begs the new owner not to sell it to a man of pure evil.

Grant Atherton, the Earl of Quincy, did not know that he had inherited a theatre following his father's death. No, he was surprised that this, along with his father's debts, was draining the entire estate, threatening not only the estate's future financial security but also his sister's education and dowries. He sees no way forward but to sell the theatre until a plea of desperation prompts him to look more closely at the situation, to look beneath the facade. 

But how can he choose between his family and the young dancers of the theatre? Could Miss Laurent be telling him the truth when she promises that the Danforth will become profitable? And just how will she do so? 

This book examines the dangers these young women/girls faced who undertook such a life and why they did so. And the disrespect they faced from society's elite. The term gentleman for some of these men was merely a title to allow despotic behavior with little to no consequences.

What I did like was Grant's determination to not be one of those gentlemen, to be someone who treated people for who they were, not because they had a title or wealth. And Emmeline's story was tragic, and when the full truth was revealed... let's just say this is one that has to be read to fully understand just how great a tragedy it was. And before you start worrying, this book does have a satisfying ending that points to better days and a HEA. 

This is a Historical Regency Romance that delves into a world of contrasts while staying true to one's faith and conscience in the face of resistance, fear, and both societal and familial expectations. I'm interested in where this series goes with book two - those involved in the theatre or Grant's younger siblings?

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: The Ballerina's Bargain 
Series: Danforth Theatre #1 
Author: Lorri Dudley 
Publisher: Wild Heart Books 
Release Date: September 8, 2026 
Genre: Historical Regency Romance

A burdened earl. A determined ballerina. Saving the theatre was part of their bargain. Losing their hearts wasn't.  

London, 1815 

Emmeline Laurent has survived by grace and grit. After her parents' execution in France, she has learned to live unseen as a humble ballerina instructing young pupils in a small London theatre. When whispers spread that the Danforth Theatre may be sold to an unscrupulous buyer, Emmeline fears not only for her livelihood but for the safety of her impressionable students. With no time and no options, she does the only thing she knows to do: leap into a moving carriage and bargain with the new lord who holds their fate. 

Grant Atherton, the Earl of Quincy, has inherited the crushing weight of duty along with a failing theatre, an arranged engagement, two younger sisters to usher into society, and a mountain of his father's secrets. Selling the Danforth is the only way to save his family from ruin. The last thing he needs is a beautiful, infuriatingly determined ballerina turning his careful plans upside down. 

But when Emmeline's hidden past begins surfacing and the danger circling the theatre proves far deadlier than either of them realized, Grant must choose between the life he planned and the one God may have been preparing all along.  

For fans of Roseanna M. White and Jen Turano — a sweeping Regency romance about the grace found in surrender, the courage it takes to trust, and the God who makes a way when every door seems closed.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Wild Heart Books | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available

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About the Author

Lorri Dudley is the bestselling author of The Leeward Island Series and The Agents of Espionage Series. She has a master’s degree in psychology and lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household.

Connect with Lorri by visiting lorridudley.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card and a prize bundle with reading blanket, socks, and candle!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 8, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 15, 2026. 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

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

Recipe for a Princess ~ Review

Recipe for a Princess

Heirs of Peverell #2

By Hannah Currie

Princess Isabella is sure she can help all her friends find love, help Zaria rise above the stigma of being the woman her brother didn't marry, and handle the fund raiser of the century (or whatever they want to call it). She thrilled with how she helped Bailey and Cameron find their love and get engaged. And when it comes to tasty treats she whips up, she's a kitchen wiz. So how hard could it be to take on raising funds for the children's hospital in Peverell? And she knows exactly which of her friends is perfect for who, if only they'll be a bit more receptive to her assistance.

But when things go wrong, they go very wrong. And Isabella makes one wrong decision on top of the other. And too late she realizes that she may have driven away the very man she didn't realize that she loves. Worse everyone in Peverell knows exactly what she did.

Isabella discovers being a princess is more than wearing a crown, ordering people around, and taking credit when things go right. Sometimes it is accepting responsibility for you do wrong, humbling yourself, asking for help, and always seeking God's guidance in all things.

This is a story of forgiveness, of admitting the truth, and accepting God's gift of mercy.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Princess Isabella of Peverell couldn’t be more thrilled for her brother’s new romance. Nothing could make her happier, not even a perfectly baked dark chocolate cheesecake drizzled with fudge sauce and topped with strawberries cut into roses. With a few curls of toasted coconut tossed around for that extra flair. Because baking is all about the presentation. But life? Life is all about the romance.

Not that Izzy’s ever experienced romance herself. She knows enough about love to know one can’t force it. At least for oneself. For others? Absolutely. Why wouldn’t the rest of her friends want to be as blissfully happy as her brother? If she can take a few ingredients and turn them into the most beautiful high tea, surely she can find perfect matches for her friends. She’s the princess, after all, and what better legacy to leave as a royal than one of love and care for her people? If she just happens to find a man to love her along the way, even better. Only life doesn’t follow a recipe, and as decisions and their consequences start piling up around her, Isabella finds herself in over her head. And the one man who’s always been there for her just walked away.

Of Sound and Silence ~ Review

Of Sound and Silence

Crowns of Corrend #1

By Madisyn Carlin

Narrator Gillian Wiggin

Finn Akkand feels as if his life is over when he survives an enemy attack and is left deaf. As an orphan he was always made to feel as if he was less than anything and now, he knows it. So, when a captain pulls him out of the hospital to serve as a personal guard in the royal household, he is more than surprised. Even more surprising is the fact that the king and queen approve of his appointment to protect the princess and to find a siren who is destroying their enemies. That's a good thing, right?

Nvani Lachnen has a secret, one that she refuses to share out of fear. Fear that her family will be injured if the truth is ever discovered. Fear that she will be viewed as a monster. But she cannot refuse to use the gift she was given. A gift that allows her to protect her kingdom. And the new guard hired to keep her safe is more than a problem.

I loved how this story included elements of the Twelve Dancing Princesses but was so much more than a simple retelling. No, this story took everything one would expect and crafted and molded it into something new and unique. 

And there are dragons! Yes, dragons in the castle. Cute baby dragons! The dragons alone should make you want to read/listen to this book. Add in that it is a clean romance and yes, war, but absent excessive and graphic violence. 

The narrator was excellent and presented the story in an engaging manner. Well worth the time and experience. 

I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to the second book.

About the Book:

He's a deaf soldier. She's a princess whose voice could destroy kingdoms.

What good is a soldier who can't hear orders? War left its mark on Finn Akkand...and his hearing. Now thrust into an unanticipated role of bodyguard, Finn thinks all he'll need to do is keep the five princesses out of trouble. But his new job proves to be far from easy when he is assigned to find a mysterious creature rumored to be causing havoc on Lachnen’s shores.

Nvani Lachnen is a princess by day and a guardian by night. Carrying a royal gift that not only allows her to protect her kingdom, but must also remain hidden, Nvani works in the shadows to keep the enemy at bay…until her efforts are branded as dangerous and a price is unknowingly put on her head. As inside forces threaten not only her kingdom, but her family’s safety, Nvani is forced to accept help from unlikely allies while facing increased attacks that threaten her life.

Finn and Nvani soon find themselves navigating mischievous siblings, miscreant dragons, and enemies masquerading as allies. As the storms rise and another war threatens to erupt, two guarded hearts must learn whom to trust before it is too late.

Of Sound and Silence is a Christian fantasy fairy tale retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses. Featured tropes include found family, deaf rep, opposites attract, and royalty x commoner. There are also dragons.

An Irish Hope ~ Review

An Irish Hope

Fairall Romance Legacy #2 

By Carolyn Miller 

Aisling Fairall is hoping for a story like her sister Rory and her brother Colin one that is directly related to the Fairall Legacy. A legacy that allows them to instantly recognize their one true love.  The problem is making sure that their true recognizes them.

But right now Aisling is the sister of the groom in a wedding that shut down the hotel that is their family home. Well, except for two guests. One of whom is there celebrating (or mourning) the honeymoon that did not happen one year ago. Not that he minded getting dumped by the woman he thought he'd spend the rest of his life with. Or that her choice was his former friend and teammate. Nope nothing like that going on, but he is not going to let his heart or romance or anything else lead him down the path of romance anytime soon.

But an expected and untimely run-in with a redhead soon has him having trouble sticking to his promise to himself. But Andrew Scott's been down the path of love before and he is going to resist following it again, but there is something about Aisling.

Aisling was madder than a cat that had gone swimming when she and Andy ran into one another at her brother's wedding. Of course, that was before the family legacy let her on a little secret.  But how do you convince a man who wants to avoid romance that he is destined to be your true love? 

An Irish Hope is a Contemporary Christian Romance that features karaoke, too-helpful friends, a family legacy, clean romance, and trusting God. There are ups and downs and some definite bumps along the way as Aisling tries to determine what life and God have in store for her. This was a cute story that offers some depth and one that I would recommend.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Aisling Fairall has a big personality and a big heart. But lately she's been feeling a little lost and wondering what to do with her life. Until a mysterious uninvited guest at a family wedding helps her see that maybe she's not quite on her own, after all.

Andrew Scott is used to crushed dreams, which is why he's here at a fancy hotel in west Ireland on the anniversary of what should've been his honeymoon. He's trying to pick up the pieces of his life when an unexpected encounter with a sassy redhead makes his heart beat faster again.

Can these two overcome complications galore and find hope and a future again?

Join Ash and Andy as they discover God may just have good plans beyond what they'd imagined, in this sweet romance filled with banter, Irish pop music references, and a lively Irish family and their gorgeous castle by the sea.

Get all the books featuring the Fairall siblings. 

The Lost Daughter's Irishman features Colin Fairall.

The Fairall Romance Legacy

featuring the Fairall sisters

Aurora, Aisling, and Fiona.

Darkwater Descent ~ Review

Darkwater Descent

Roxburgh Scions #2

By Paige Edwards

This is the second book in the Roxburgh Scions but the fourth book in the Roxburgh story world (Roxburgh Heirs). This time we are introduced to the estates heir Roddy Henderson who has been living the last few years as business owner and diver master in the Cayman Islands. So may have labeled him as a shirker and a well-to-do-bored-rich-guy but Roddy had his reasons for living away from the estate that would one day be entrusted to his care. He never expected to connect with anyone from Scotland, much less an auditor who captures his attention. But Everly manage to do just that in the midst of her investigation for MI6. Things do not go well. Nope not a bit and she doesn't even get the opportunity to explain what happened to Roddy before she's on her way back home.

But when Roddy's gift for examining eyes puts him in the crosshairs of a crime boss, who has no qualms about killing anyone and everyone around them just to keep his identity a secret, Roddy has no choice but to leave the life he has come to love behind. He just wishes he had a chance to say goodbye to Everly Pattinson before he was forced to return to Scotland. But danger follows him and soon the estate and the people he loves and is responsible for are in danger.

This is an intense and engaging read. I love that we are finally able to get Roddy's story and to see how he and his sisters (and their significant others) all come together to protect their home, family, and friends. While navigating this whole "my life and estate are in danger" thing Roddy gets a surprising chance to reconnect with Everly. Of course there is the whole MI6 thing to deal with and his feeling adrift with the sudden responsibility that is unexpectedly and way too soon dropped on him. So yeah, this was a good read with the right balance of danger, suspense, clean romance, and family drama. I personally hope that their will be future books featuring this family but if not this had a good ending.

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.   

Darkwater Descent is releasing September 15, 2026.

About the Book:

The wrong discovery. 

The right woman. 

Deadly consequences.

While exploring a shipwreck in the Cayman Islands, Scottish dive master Roddy Henderson discovers a hidden underwater listening device and unwittingly places himself in the crosshairs of a ruthless Albanian crime boss–an elusive master of disguise who has evaded capture for decades. Now Roddy may be the only person who can identify him.

MI6 auditor Everly Pattinson’s mother is dying of ALS, and though Everly longs to spend every possible moment with her, the medical expenses require Everly to accept an overseas project assessing suspicious bank activity in the Caymans. Following a hunch, she takes an unauthorized risk and is caught and expelled from the island without a chance to say goodbye to Roddy, the handsome dive instructor she has fallen for. Eager to reestablish her tarnished reputation with MI6, Everly poses as a plus-one for a high-ranking British Intelligence official.

After narrowly surviving an attempt on his life, Roddy retreats to his native Scotland. There, at a glittering social event, he unexpectedly runs into Everly, on the arm of someone else–someone Roddy knows. Before she can explain, the Albanian crime boss walks through the door.

Convinced Everly deceived him from the beginning, Roddy wants nothing more to do with her. When the killer threatens the people he loves, Roddy must team up with Everly and MI6. Hunting a master of deception forces him to confront not only a deadly enemy, but also the painful past that drove him from Scotland–and the possibility that trusting Everly could either heal his deepest wounds or destroy him for good.

Start at the beginning with the Roxbury Heirs

and continue with the Roxburgh Scions

Taken Without a Trace ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for 

Taken Without a Trace by Hope Welborn, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Taken Without a Trace 
By Hope Welborn

When GBI Special Agent Cash Brenner literally runs into the "ex from his past that he's regretted ever since," it isn't a happy reunion. Nope not even close. But Cash's cold case and Maya Reid's missing sister just might be linked. Can you say "Danger!"? Because both Cash and Maya fear what might be next when someone decides they need to be eliminated.

Taken Without a Trace definitely kept me guessing as to who the criminal mastermind was. And can we just say there were times I was like, "Don't do it!" But did the characters listen to me, nope.

But overall, it was a fairly good read with just the right amount of suspense.

Did it keep me reading too late? Um, yeah. But this was a fairly quick read. This was a book of second chances (if they can get past their pasts) and family. It is a Love Inspired Suspense offering so the romance tends more towards sweet, and the violence is kept in the non-graphic category.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book

Title: Taken Without a Trace 
Author: Hope Welborn 
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense 
Release Date: August 25, 2026 
Genre: Romantic Suspense

A missing person case…  

or a deadly cover-up? 

Georgia Special Agent Cash Brenner gets an anonymous tip on a cold case that’s haunted him for years—but following the lead has him walking into a deadly ambush. He’s saved by his ex, private investigator Maya Reid, who is on a mission to find her missing sister. As eerie similarities between their investigations emerge and Cash grapples with memory loss from the attack, they must put their rocky past aside to find answers. With danger lurking at every turn, Cash and Maya need to act quickly to solve the case and locate Maya’s sister—or risk losing everything they hold dear.  

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available

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About the Author

 Award-winning author Hope Welborn writes spine-  tingling suspense, sprinkled with romance, and saturated with faith. By day, she masquerades as a digital content marketing technology specialist, and by night, she stays up too late putting words on the page. Hope is also co-owner and design/technology manager for Spark Flash Fiction and a member of the Suspense Squad. She has two indie published works, and her next novel will release from Love Inspired Suspense in August 2026. She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency.

 Connect with Hope by visiting hopewelborn.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback copy of Taken Without a Trace, a copy of both Hidden and Trail of Danger (also by Hope Welborn), and a $15 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 24, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 31, 2026. Winners 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

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