Queen of Reckoning ~ Review

Queen of Reckoning

Blood of Kings: Legends #5

Jill Williamson presents Kelly Fernlake

I love that the Blood of Kings series has this engaging spinoff series to delve into. And the fifth book, Queen of Reckoning, does not disappoint. In this book, we return to Jaelport as Mandzee Hamartano tries to maintain her role as queen, but her treaty with King Gidon is viewed unfavorably by her people. 

Worse, her tenure seems doomed to be short. When Lovell Dunn shows up early in her role as a royal envoy, things become even more volatile as her connections with Armonguard are brought once again into focus.

With her worthiness and abilities called into question, Mandzee feels she must compete in an annual tournament to earn her people's trust as ruler. But the tournament could be the very thing that brings down her rule and shortens her life. With threats surrounding her, Mandzee might have to rely on Lovell Dunn to help her discover who is targeting her and why.

Lovell has the unique ability to thoroughly annoy Mandzee, but all he's trying to do is make sure she is following the terms of the treaty she signed, keep her safe, charm her, and leave Jaelport as soon as possible. Though why he has to charm her, he's not sure. It certainly has nothing to do with saving her life previously or thinking about her a lot.  Nope, it is just part of his personality. Umhum, right. Nothing else.

Queen of Reckoning is so good. I love how Mandzee is working through the best way to rule. Does she follow the examples of the queens who came before, including her mother? Delving into the magic that steals a piece of her soul little by little with each spell? Or does she instead turn to her new knowledge of Armon and learn from Lovell? 

This is, at its heart, a book about heart and trust. Will this be a new beginning to something better in Jaelport? Or will they fall deeper into the darkness that is already consuming them?

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

About the Book:

A queen who rules by magic and the one man she can’t disarm.

Mandzee Hamartano didn’t ask to be queen. She didn’t ask for the peace treaty that’s turned half her city against her, the mage tournament that’s about to put her life on the line, or the envoy from Armonguard who’s moved into her palace and refuses to leave.

She certainly didn’t ask to fall for him.

Lovell Dunn is King Gidon’s royal envoy, tasked with one job: shadow the queen, keep the treaty, and report back. He’s not there to be charmed by a mage with copper eyes and a laugh that could melt stone. He’s especially not there to let her heal the condition that’s been stealing his sight for years.

But Mandzee is in more danger than either of them realizes. A deadly mage tournament is being used as a killing ground. A dark force is gathering inside her walls. And her brother—believed dead—has just walked out of the shadows with a powerful spirit at his command and a blade aimed at her throne.

To save her city, Mandzee will have to trust an Armanite who distrusts magic. And Lovell will have to risk the one future he’s been fighting for—to protect the one woman he can’t get out of his head.

A Pint of Peaches and Poison ~ Review

A Pint of Peaches and Poison
Enchanted Confections

By Anabell Raven

Nykita was promised in marriage 100 years ago! No, she is not that old. But what's worse she is promised to a Mer-Fae Prince and fae are not to be trusted, ever. And especially if the said prince smiles too much and is way too nice for the whole pre-arranged marriage thing He must disguising his true purpose.

Warrick wants to have a marriage like his parents and hopes with time he will - he just needs earn her trust and get past the I'm-going-to-kill-you-first stage of their marriage. And deal with a rebellion that could destroy everything-the island, the alliance with his people, his marriage-everything.

This book was a fun twist on The Little Mermaid with peaches fire-breathing lizards, and expectations. Don't come in expecting an update to Anderson's original tale or an adaptation of what Disney presented, no, this is a tale as unique as the cover that graces its pages. And don't be surprised if you develop a hankering for peaches while you are reading.

                                            

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

About the Book:

1 Pinch of Poison.

1 Dash of Daring.

1 Fragile Alliance (and the lies that might set it on fire).

Their marriage was arranged a century ago, but she’ll do everything she can to stop it now.

Nykita spent years fighting her scheduled arranged marriage, and now that the day has finally arrived, she will take whatever measures she must to avoid binding herself to the ocean fae’s prince.

Warrick is determined to build a successful marriage with the human princess, but he did not expect to find her little kingdom on the verge of collapsing on itself.

Warrick and Nykita need to see past each others’ crisp edges and expose their own tender vulnerabilities if they hope to stop a rebellion and save the alliance between their people. It’s a good thing they have a fire chicken to help.

How will Warrick respond to life on land, reluctant rebels, and a princess who doesn’t eat sugar? What will Nykita do when she discovers she has worse enemies than the man she married? Find out in this delightful tale of magic, tension, and no-spice romantasy!

A Pint of Peaches and Poison, a wildly reimagined, reverse-gender Little Mermaid retelling, is a standalone novella, full of magic, betrayals, redemption, and delicious fruits. It is part of the Enchanting Confections series, a collection of cozy stories with no-spice romance guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth.

Order this Little Mermaid retelling at https://books2read.com/pintpp

Read, Write, Rendezvous ~ Spies, Lies, & Alibis Book Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour that brings 

Rendezvous 2026 to you, hosted, sponsored, and organized by 

JustRead Publicity Tours!

Spies, Lies, and Alibis

By Natalie Walters

Narrated by Andrew Eiden
   and Dominique Salvacion

Cybil Langford and Ben Bradley haven't seen each other in years, but now they keep running into each other in the middle of their assignments. Assignments that involve ruthless crime bosses, Russian oligarchs, brutal killers, and secrets that keep them both wondering what the other is doing. Both suspect the other of having changed for the worst or being deceived by the people they are working for.

Cybil has worked to be more than her upbringing, to get above the debts attached to her name. She isn't a spy, not in the traditional sense, but her current situation finds her in deeper than she's ever been before. Ben's presence is an unexpected complication she doesn't expect or need. But she can't deny that she is still attracted to him.

Ben is in it deep, determined to bring down the man the FBI has been after. But when Cybil is drawn into the investigation, he feels he has to protect her from a life she doesn't know she's fallen into. But Cybil is different than he remembered but still able to distract him.

There are moments that are humorous - Cybil seems to be accident prone. But not everything is snappy repartee and laughable moments, there are moments that are serious and intensely serious. It is the perfect balance for an enjoyable read and I enjoyed it also as an audiobook - which adds an additional touch to the story, added depth. 

BTW Ben's grandmother is a hoot and thankfully, absolutely nothing like my own was. 

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

Thank you to Libro.fm for the audiobook review (ALC) copy of Spies, Lies, & Alibi's 

 

About the Book:

They were each other's first love. Now they might be each other's last hope. Perfect for fans of Ally Carter, Spies, Lies, and Alibis is an unputdownable binge-fest, full of laughs, heart, and mischief.

Cybil Langford has spent years hiding behind her polished, professional facade as the executive assistant to a powerful real estate mogul, where she's perfectly positioned to collect intel on her boss's criminal network. But when her mission leads her into the path of Lorenzo Ramirez--a ruthless crime boss with deadly plans--she'll need every ounce of cunning and charm to stay one step ahead.

Then he walks back into her life.

Ben Bradley is deep undercover for the FBI, living under an alias, as a financial advisor with a reputation for helping the wealthy and corrupt launder their money. His target? Lorenzo Ramirez, a dangerous crime boss with his hands in everything from smuggling to murder. But when a familiar face from his past suddenly reappears, things get . . . complicated.

The last time Cybil saw Ben, he was an annoying prankster--and her first crush. The last time Ben saw Cybil, she stole a piece of his heart. Neither expected to run into each other at a high-stakes fundraising gala where crime, corruption, and undercover agendas collide.

Forced to work dangerously close, neither knows the other's true agenda. Cybil sees the boy who once broke her heart, now a man whose motives are deeply suspect. Ben sees the woman he never got over but can't determine if she's an innocent caught in the crossfire or a willing accomplice. As they navigate a world of spies, lies, and fragile alibis, they must dismantle the walls around their hearts.

The intel is classified. The trust is fragile. And their covers are one lie away from blowing wide open.

Available for purchase at Amazon, Barnes Noble, and Christian Books

About the Author:

Natalie Walters is a bestselling and award-winning author who loves thrilling adventure, quick-witted characters, fun banter, and romantic tension with all the sizzling chemistry. Fighting the bad guys with her words, her stories blend humor, suspense, heart, and hope—served with a side of danger. She writes Sweet and Stabby suspense for readers who crave plot twists, emotional stakes, and just enough mischief to make you wonder if that shovel in the trunk is for gardening… or something else.

Bringing Rendezvous '26 to You!

Rendezvous: reader and writer gathering November 7, 2026 
Holiday Inn Nashville Airport

Readers and Writers will gather at the fourth annual Read Write Rendezvous, organized and sponsored by JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC, on November 7, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. CT at the Holiday Inn Nashville Airport. Rendezvous celebrates Christian fiction and sweet reads, featuring corporate worship, speaker sessions, author panels, small-group discussions, games, giveaways, a pop-up bookshop, and book signings. This event aims to sweeten reading and storytelling experiences with fellowship and encouragement. Over forty featured authors are participating, including The Christy Award Hall of Fame and bestselling author Tamera Alexander who will deliver the keynote address. USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author Lisa Phillips will lead worship. We will announce several more authors in the coming weeks! We prayerfully honor the legacy of the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat through each Rendezvous event, and this year we are especially celebrating the very first CFRR which was held 10 years ago in Nashville. Rendezvous is open only to registered attendees. Want to extend your reader getaway? The Christy Award Gala and Art of Writing conference will be held at a nearby venue on November 6.

Learn more about the 2026 Rendezvous

If you're unable to attend Rendezvous this year, we don't want you to miss out on getting to know our authors and their books. Our bloggers are bringing Rendezvous to you by spotlighting several of the participating authors this week. Follow along to grow your TBR list to astronomical proportions!  

Check out recent releases by these participating authors in the JustRead Amazon Storefront.

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Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $30 gift card 

(winner’s choice of Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook, or Baker Book House)!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight June 15, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on June 22, 2026. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. 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!

A Taste of Tea and Tenderness ~ Review

 

A Taste of Tea and Tenderness 

The Enchanting Confections
By Gabrielle Landi

Narrated by Jess Moran

This is a fun and delightful Thumbelina retelling and no magic was involved. Linnea has been left in charge of the Cozy Cat Cafe when her employer is away. Handling everything on her own–no problem. Well, maybe a tad overwhelming, especially since she volunteered to bake muffins and tarts for the local school fundraiser. But how could she say no when Conrad the new schoolteacher asked.

Conrad and Linnea spend much of the time wondering if the other may have feelings for the other, though it is obvious to almost everyone that they do. It's those who aren't in the almost category who complicate things for them.

Thing was a cute and enjoyable story that I enjoyed in audio format. It was a quick and enjoyable listen that was well presented by the narrator, Jess Moran. The total run time is less than three hours and was a great way to pass an afternoon.

To order this title go to the following link: Taste of Tea and Tenderness store link

About the Book:

A pinch of fake dating, a dash of fundraiser mayhem, and a love that rises when their future is on the line.

Running the Cozy Cat Café while its owner is away would have been enough work, but apprentice Linnea added another complication: catering the local school’s fundraiser. Surviving the week seems debatable…until the quiet schoolteacher she might be falling for offers to help her. Faking a relationship to avoid one of his students is only the icing on the cinnamon roll.

Conrad hasn’t been able to take his eyes off Linnea since he first saw her, and the fact that she’s on her own with the cafe for a week seems like the perfect opportunity to show her how much he cares. But with more suitors vying for her hand, an encounter with a hive of bees gone wrong, and clingy students that he can’t shake, proving that he’s the man for her is turning out to be more work than he expected.

Between batches of pastries and mugs of tea, can Conrad and Linnea's fake relationship rise to the occasion, or will they both end up burned?

A Taste of Tea and Tenderness, a no spice fairy tale retelling of Thumbelina, is a standalone novella, complete with tropes such as fake dating, he falls first, and wound tending. It is part of The Enchanting Confections series, a collection of clean and cozy stories guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth. Perfect for fans of whimsical fairytale romance, cozy Hallmark vibes, and sweet & swoony heroes.

A Touch of Tiaras and Treachery ~ Review

A Touch of Tiaras and Teachery

Enchanting Confections

By Ashley Evercott

Oh, I absolutely LOVED this story! I loved Nin and how caring for her younger brother was the driving force behind all her actions — pickpocket, double for the princess, assassination bait.

 

Was it easy to impersonate a princess? Absolutely not — there are rules, multilayered clothes, etiquette, more rules, dancing lessons, and no tasty sweet treats. Did I mention rules? And absolute secrecy — only Captain Cedric Duval, the real princess, and Lucille know what's going on. To breathe even a hint at what they are doing could cost them their lives, their freedom, and well, really, everything. 

Yeah, not a fan of death because the big secret plan to save the princess does not go as planned. But a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do to save her brother. 

I have never had a macaron before, but after reading this, I need to find someplace that makes them and try one. You'll understand once you've read the story.

Would I recommend this book? Yes. 

Is it all Lollipops and Roses? No. 

Does it have a Happily-Ever-After? Yes.

And the ending totally loved it!

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

About the Book:

For Nin, the dream was never a tiara—only survival. But when a desperate bargain promises her brother’s safety in exchange for taking a princess’s place, she can’t refuse. Thrust into a world of luxury and suspicion, Nin must master courtly etiquette to keep the true princess hidden. One mistake could cost more than her secret, it could cost lives.

Captain Cedric Duval lives by a strict code of order, discipline, and restraint. Training a street-smart pauper to impersonate a princess, however, proves far more difficult than any security drill. As he teaches Nin curtsies and royal customs, he begins to question the wisdom of his plan… and his growing feelings for the girl beneath the disguise.

With a royal wedding drawing near, Nin and Cedric must survive a court where danger lurks in the shadows and every dance could reveal hidden truths. Each step closer to uncovering the plot puts their deception—and their hearts—at risk. If they fail, it won’t be a princess the assassin strikes, it will be the girl wearing her tiara.

A Touch of Tiaras and Treachery, a gender-swapped retelling of The Prince and the Pauper, is a standalone novella, complete with tropes such as "swapped identities", "slow-burn", "princess training", and "bodyguard romance". It is a part of The Enchanting Confections series, a collection of clean and cozy stories guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth.

From the author Content Warning: This book contains an assassination plot, attempted assassination, non-explicit death, use of a coercive drug, mention of deceased parents, and poverty

The Duke's Bargain ~ Review

The Duke's Bargain

A Proper Romance

By Megan Walker

Miss Georgiana Wood has lived as a recluse after a major social misstep—one that has ruined her reputation. But when the Duke of Marlow comes to recover a ring that his cousin lost in a game of chance, Georgiana has a chance to reclaim the position that she lost. She requests three outings in exchange for returning the ring.

But when her brother is called away for an emergency, everything is upended, and Georgiana and Marlow find themselves together more than they expected. For Marlow what had been an unwanted way to reclaim what was his always him to rediscover who he is beneath the title. But he has a duty and Georgiana is a complication to the plans he has made. And happiness, his happiness was never part of it.                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

This was a lovely read. I loved how Marlow's family helped him and exasperate him and how Georgiana allowed him to see them for who they were and that life was not just a set of rules and expectations. Does their bargain go as planned? Not at all. But a planned life is not necessarily the best life. If I had to describe this book in just a couple of words, I would say sweet and complicated. 

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

About the Book:

One Season.

One Bargain.

One last chance at love.

Eight months after a stolen kiss ruined her reputation, Miss Georgiana Wood is a recluse, cast out of Society without any hope of ever finding a suitable match. Longing for redemption, she never expects her salvation to arrive in the form of a handsome, temperamental duke.

After a failed bargain left the Duke of Marlow without a promised wife and heir, he must face courtship a final time. He plans to entice his future bride with a priceless family heirloom—one now in the possession of Miss Wood, who agrees to return it if he takes her on three outings in London during the Season to restore her reputation.

As the pair navigate Society’s expectations and whispered gossip, Marlow soon sees a new side to Georgiana—an ally and friend. Her wit and courage, grace and allure far exceed that of the eligible ladies he intended to court, and soon, he’d do almost anything to secure her happiness.

As Marlow wrestles with duty and desire, Georgiana begins to hope that she could be loved not despite her past, but because of who she truly is. When hearts are tested, truth and secrets revealed, will love be enough to risk it all?

Now Until Forever ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

Now Until Forever by Lisa Phillips, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Now Until Forever 
Brand of Justice #16 
By Lisa Phillips 

 First off this is the sixteenth book in the series but it can totally be read without reading the previous books first. Eliana Jaxton has moved to Chicago seeking information about her family and their past. She decided that if no one would answer her questions, she'd find the answers herself. But her quest for answers leads to her discovering a body. A murder in a place that is supposed to be secure. And from there everything starts going really strange.

Carlos Ryson is in Chicago looking for his missing sister when he gets called to The Shrine for a murder. He's just a police officer and not involved with the actual investigation. But he knows Eliana from before and he needs her help discovering what happened to Luci. Of course, he needs to get past the fact that he broke Eliana heart and that she wants nothing to do with him.

All of this starts Eliana and Carlos looking into a cultish group that has a shadowy leader only known as The Mother. And then there are the protesters who don't like The Shrine. It's a whole big ball of coincidence and mess. But no one really believes in coincidences, do they? 

This was an intense read that definitely left one wondering who would survive to the end of the book. There was a brutal murder scene and few other Eww moments dealing with dead bodies, but overall, this was a fairly good read. The romance was definitely in the clean category. I liked that the "villain" wasn't an early reveal. Only near the end did I wonder, could it be? But I did this with a couple of people so, yeah, the suspense continued to build. 

And the ending, I know this is supposed to be the series finale, but it could definitely lead into another story or spin-off series.

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

About the Book

Title: Now Until Forever 
Series: Brand of Justice #16 
Author: Lisa Phillips 
Publisher: Two Dogs Publishing, LLC 
Release Date: May 6, 2026 
Genre: Christian Thriller with Romance

**The Epic Stand-alone Finale** 

Born into a legacy, Eliana must find her own brand of justice. 

After moving to Chicago to work at the mysterious Shrine museum, Eliana is determined to uncover the family secrets she’s never been told. When she stumbles upon her first ever dead body, everyone around her believes she should try and solve the murder. But taking cases isn’t what she came here for. Despite her plans, things are about to turn far more sinister, and the path she’s on seems determined to drag her back into a nightmare. 

Chicago PD Officer Carlos Ryson was born into a legacy of his own. He’s here to look for his missing sister, Luci, and wants to enlist Eliana’s help. This is a family problem, and only family working together can solve it. But Eliana has never forgotten the way Carlos shredded her heart. If he wants them to team up, he’ll have to confront the damage he did and find a way to repair it. 

While the city around them descends into a chaos that resembles the end times, someone has seized the opportunity to get what they want from the Shrine. Only Eliana stands in their way, but if she’s going to figure this out she’ll need to trust that the people around her have her back.  

Before it’s too late.  

Now Until Forever is the stand-alone finale to the Brand of Justice series, and is set in the near-future. It features a happily ever after romance mixed with high-stakes suspense in this gripping crime fiction story.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Buy from the Author | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More in This Series

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About the Author

Lisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.

Connect with Lisa by visiting authorlisaphillips.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will each receive a paperback copy of Now Until Forever and various book merch goodies!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 18, 2026 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 25, 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 for print. If winner is outside the US, he/she will receive an ebook instead of paperback, along with some book swag. 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!

Shipwrecked Faith ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for 
Shipwrecked Faith by Danielle Grandinetti, 
hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Shipwrecked Faith 

Dawning Sisters #1 

By Danielle Grandinetti 

Sadie Dawning left home to escape, though she justified as a means to help save the family farm. But when she receives word that her father is unwell, she drops everything to return to her Wisconsin home, leaving Chicago behind. But things don't go quite right, starting with having to escape Chicago by being rescued by a perfect stranger and then being smuggled out of the city!

Kellan O'Roark is desperate to escape Chicago and his older cousin's nefarious deeds. He has one chance to make good his escape and help bring Tiernan to justice, but when he sees Sadie in danger, he does what no one else will; he steps in to help.

This book is the first in a new series by the author, and I totally loved it and can't wait for book two to be released. I loved how the author brought the characters to life and made them relatable, people I was rooting for to succeed. I loved how Sadie's faith meant so much to her being, though incidents from the past had shaken her. And Kellan, my heart ached for him and the childhood he had after losing his parents. His feelings of worthlessness and the guilt he felt over what he had done for and now to his cousin so defined him.

My favorite part of this book was how it brought actual historical events to life in a way that history books and class never did. And living in Wisconsin, this added an extra touch in my opinion. Highly recommend to teens and up.

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

About the Book

Title: Shipwrecked Faith 

Series: Dawning Sisters #1 

Author: Danielle Grandinetti 

Publisher: Ashberry Lane 

Release Date: May 15, 2026 

Genre: Historical Romance 

Chicago, October 1929—Kellan O’Roark is running on borrowed time. After handing over his cousin’s incriminating bootlegging ledger to the police, he intends to vanish before the mobster exacts revenge. His destination: the SS Wisconsin, a steamer headed for Milwaukee, upon which he’s secured work despite his fear of the water. 

But despite his pressing need for escape, Kellan faces obstacles while leaving Chicago—including one who may break open his heart. Sadie Dawning, desperate to return to her family’s Wisconsin farm and ailing father, escapes a kidnapping attempt at Chicago Union Station when Kellan steps in and offers to smuggle her aboard the Wisconsin. His decision turns nearly fatal when an autumn storm capsizes the ship. 

Washed ashore, the pair arrive at Sadie’s family farm to find new storms brewing on land. While Kellan hides his past to continue evading his cousin, Sadie fights for her place among her sisters while the farm battles the beginnings of the Great Depression. Caught between duty, a dangerous past, and a budding love, Kellan and Sadie must rely on their newfound faith in each other and renewed faith in God to weather the growing storm. 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | WhiteFire Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Also Available:

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About the Author

Danielle Grandinetti writes award-winning 1930s historical romance filled with mystery, suspense, and hope. She is a second-generation Italian-American rooted in Midwest traditions. Fueled by tea, books, and the creative beauty of nature, her stories explore love and belonging in hard times.

Connect with Danielle by visiting daniellegrandinetti.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Shipwrecked Faith,
a paperback journal, and a Danielle Grandinetti tote bag!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 19, 2026 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on May 26, 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 the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Anchoring You ~ Review

Anchoring You

The Wright Heroes of Maine #9

By Robin Patchen

When pirates try to take the yacht she is transporting, Kenzie Wright isn't about to be taken without a fight, not when the lives of her crew depend on her. There is just one little problem: she is woefully unprepared for an attack, with weapons at a minimum, and no safe space to hide. YIKES! But she's a Wright, and Wrights don't give up!

Jasper Aylett has a reputation, and it's not good. Nope, he's bad news. He abandoned his family and is living the life that would have made his late mother shudder if she could see him. But Jasper, aka Jax, made his mistakes and now has to live with the consequences. Consequences that forced him to give up one thing he loves most in the world. But he's fighting back the only way he knows how; unfortunately, saving Kenzie is about to upset his carefully crafted cover. 

This is a contemporary romance with faith elements, but it is not in-your-face, preachy. No, for Kenzie, it is just part of who she is. For Jasper, it was part of his past, but now, with his life spiraling out of his control, it is something knocking on his soul. These aren't perfect characters; they have flaws and failings, just like everyone else, which is what makes this book a more compelling read.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

On the glittering waters of the Caribbean, 

a yacht captain’s fight for survival forces her to 

rely on a man she swore she’d never trust.

A fiercely independent yacht captain, Kenzie Wright has spent her life disregarding her family’s expectations. She thrives on freedom, charting her own course, and never staying in one place—or with one person—for long. But when a routine voyage thrusts her into the crosshairs of a deadly drug cartel, her carefully crafted agenda is blown apart. Her last hope to save herself and her crew is the partying playboy, Jaz.

DEA informant Jasper Aylett has spent years hunting the cartel leader known only as the Ghost. The mission has cost him everything—his family, his reputation, and his chance at redemption. When a beautiful yacht captain gets caught in the Ghost’s web, Jaz risks his life to rescue her. It’s his last chance to secure the information he needs to take his enemy down—and get his life back.

Kenzie is forced into hiding with Jaz, and now two cartels want her dead. With their lives on the line, Kenzie and Jaz must work together to unravel the Ghost’s network before it’s too late. But the closer they get to the truth—and to each other—the more their past wounds and buried fears threaten to tear them apart, leaving them vulnerable to an enemy who won’t stop until they’re both destroyed.

From a USA Today bestselling author… Don’t miss this heart-pounding suspense and swoon-worthy romance as Kenzie and Jasper discover their fight for survival—and for love—can only be won together.

Buy it online  

The Tale of Capri ~ Review

The Tale of Capri

A Story Inspired by MerMay 

The Capri Saga #1 

By Kathleen Solis

When Capri is injured and hunted, she has no choice but to make her way to land if she wants a chance at surviving. But she never expected that she would have to allow a human to help her. 

She doesn't trust humans, and doubts she ever will, she's seen the destruction they've caused, the pain, the suffering. But Eden is different. He seems kind, caring, and respectful. 

The Tale of Capri is a sweet story, but it is also a warning as Eden is given a chance to experience life in the ocean through Capri's eyes. The filth and destruction caused but humanities carelessness. The trash and contamination allowed to destroy the oceans. But it is also a love story and a lesson on the fragility of love when secrets are kept. 

This story is, in my opinion, a small gem of delight that is appropriate for teens and adults who are looking for a clean read and what a mermaid tale that is more than a retelling of The Little Mermaid. I love that it is inspired by Mer-May.

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

P.S. Content warning: Drinking is discussed - it is warning against the consequences and even choosing your friends wisely.

About the Book:

Eden, a kind young lifeguard, rescues an injured mermaid named Capri, who absolutely doesn't trust humans. With no chance at survival at sea, Capri has no choice but to remain under Eden's care in his secluded saltwater pool. 

Over time, Capri's guarded heart begins to melt as she discovers a different side of humanity...and Eden begins to inadvertently fall in love with her while hiding a secret that would shatter the trust he's built with her. 

When Capri offers him a single wish, Eden's choice will change their lives forever, launching them into an adventure filled with wonder, love, and secrets that neither of them could have bargained for.

Scoundrel of Claymore Keep ~ Review

Scoundrel of Claymore Keep

The King's Spies #2

By Jill Williamson

First thing you need to know is you must read Shadow of Ice Island before you read this book. The two books go together, and Scoundrel of Claymore Keep picks up where Shadow left off.

Kurtz Chazir, Zanna tan Quelle, Cole Tanniyn, and Mistel Wepp are continuing to search for answers to the questions that they came across in Shadow. And Kurtz is looking for the woman responsible for putting him in Ice Island for thirteen years. He seeks justice for the woman who framed him for King Axel's murder, though some might call it vengeance, or revenge.

But when things start to go wrong Kurtz must face the truth—there's his way or Arman's way. Then there is Zanna whom for some strange reason has become important to him, after viewing her as an irritant and nemesis for so long. And this strange phenomenon seems to have affected Zanna too. 

With danger awaiting them and any misstep they might make, tensions are high and unnecessary (aka unwanted) feelings and attractions will just make matters worse; especially with something interfering with the ability to blood voice. 

I love how this series has added to itself over the years. And this companion/spinoff series is an excellent addition to the Blood of Kings story world. I love the subtle and not so subtle nuisances. Bring on the next installment; I'm a waiting!

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

About the Book:

THE SCOUNDREL

Kurtz Chazir isn't looking for redemption—he's hunting for revenge.

Thirteen years in prison for a crime he didn't commit taught him three things: trust no one, question everything, and never forgive the woman who destroyed his life. Now free and working as one of the king's spies, Kurtz has a chance to track down Careeanne Nariel, the seductress who framed him for King Axel's assassination.

But first, he must lead a team into Barth, a city shrouded in supernatural darkness where magic and conspiracy intertwine. His mission: find a missing land warden and expose a trafficking ring selling innocent women. The catch? He has to do it while pretending to be a singing minstrel.

Kurtz may be many things, but a performer isn't one of them.

THE WARRIOR

Zanna tan Quelle doesn't take orders wellpespecially from arrogant former prisoners.

A half-giant soldier with more combat experience than patience, Zanna is assigned to Kurtz's team to provide protection. What she gets instead is endless bickering, impossible decisions, and a man who thinks he knows everything.

He's stubborn. Reckless. Infuriating.

And somehow, he's the only person who sees past her warrior's exterior to the woman beneath.

When their undercover mission goes sideways and ancient blood magic resurfaces, Zanna finds herself fighting battles on two fronts: against the black knights closing in, and against the unwanted feelings stirring in her heart.

THE CONSPIRACY

Duke Falkson's fortress holds dark secrets—human trafficking, demonic altars, and a thirteen-year-old murder conspiracy.

As Kurtz and Zanna infiltrate the nobility's inner circle, they discover the truth runs deeper than either imagined. The black knights aren't just soldiers—they're part of a network stretching across the kingdom. The missing women aren't lost—they're enslaved. And the darkness covering Barth isn't natural—it's powered by blood sacrifice.

When Zanna is captured inside Claymore Keep and Kurtz must choose between his quest for vengeance and saving the woman who's become everything he never knew he needed, he'll learn that some battles aren't won with swords.

They're won on your knees.

PERFECT FOR FANS OF:

Enemies-to-lovers romance with scorching tension
Action-packed fantasy with sword-wielding heroines
Inspirational fantasy grounded in faith
Found family and loyal friendships
Telepathic bonds and forced proximity
Undercover spy missions
Justice, redemption, and second chances

Continue the beloved Blood of Kings adventures today!

Loving Sarah ~ Review with Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Loving Sarah by Jo Huddleston, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Loving Sarah 
By Jo Huddleston 

Sarah Cunningham loves the life she lives in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. She runs the candy shop she inherited from her mama, and she's engaged to her high school sweetheart.  

But everything gets thrown into chaos when Robert Clanton comes to town following his daddy's accident. Sarah and Robert have an instant connection, almost as if they have known one another forever. 

This naturally causes Sarah all sorts of doubts. How could she have this familiarity with someone she's never met before? And what about William? Sarah is so confused about what the future holds for her.

This is an interesting read. As the reader, one has insider information that allows one to know what is going on. But one feels the frustrations and conflict that the main characters are going through as they have to work through everything. I know a few times I was like, "No, no, no!" and "Choose so-and-so!" 

The ending had a satisfying resolution with the story complete as is but there was a little wiggle room if the author decided to do a sequel. I think teens and adults who read Janette Oke or grew-up with Maddie Books would enjoy this book.

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

About the Book

Title: Loving Sarah 
Author: Jo Huddleston 
Publisher: Forget Me Not Romances, a division of Winged Publications 
Release Date: May 12, 2026 
Genre: 1950s sweet small-town romance  

Sarah wears William’s engagement ring. Then, Robert arrives in town. 

In this love-triangle story, Sarah cheerfully manages the candy shop she inherited from her mama. Being engaged to be married to Gatlinburg, Tennessee’s most eligible bachelor, makes her life pretty much perfect. But then she meets Robert and has an unexplainable sense they’ve met before. 

Robert travels from Michigan to operate Gatlinburg’s main-street SkyLift attraction while his dad recovers from a fall. He’s miserable being relocated to this Tennessee mountains hick town. That is, until he meets Sarah and feels an instant attraction to her. He’s unaware that the town’s biggest secret involves him. 

Although she’s engaged to another, Sarah and Robert are mysteriously drawn to each other. This woman and her beloved mountains curb his desire to return to Michigan. Will Sarah give in to her feelings for Robert or be true to the man she’s promised to marry? 

Loving Sarah is steeped in the easygoing culture and traditions of the Smoky Mountains in the 1950s. The story is a sweet, small-town romance with a heart-wrenching battle to make the right choice. This book will keep you turning pages with its mix of loyalty, betrayal, uncertainty, and emotional stakes.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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About the Author

Jo Huddleston writes sweet Southern romances set in the 1950s, where you can escape into wholesome, faith-based love stories of deep commitment, hope, and happily-ever-after endings. Readers describe Jo as a wonderful storyteller whose books are sure to inspire and entertain you. Reviewers say her books should be Hallmark movies.

  She likes to laugh with people, but not at people. The beach is her favorite vacation spot. She’s a spectator fan of several sports, with tennis being her favorite. She doesn’t enjoy being in the dark and is fearful of snakes! 

Jo holds a BA degree with honors from Lincoln Memorial University (TN), where she is a member of their Literary Hall of Fame. She earned the MEd degree from Mississippi State University. 

Please visit Jo's website and get a free book when you sign up for her newsletter.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card + eBook of Loving Sarah!

(2) winners will each receive the eBook of Loving Sarah!

Full tour schedule linked below. 

The giveaway begins at midnight May 12, 2026, 

and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 19, 2026. 

Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and 

given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. 

No delivery restrictions. 

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!

A Batch of Bears and Bewitchment ~ Review

A Batch of Bears and Bewitchment

The Enchanting Confections

By Sarah Carlisle

When Bryony's father does a great service to the crown, he rewarded and Bryony finds herself marrying a stranger. After all, one doesn't refuse an honor from the king. Bryony just wishes the king hadn't felt the need to force such an honor on both her and her new, strange husband. 

And Aberarth, the place she's supposed to call home? Well, we'll just say it needs lots of elbow grease. Fortunately, Bryony isn't afraid of hard work, after all she's only married into the nobility, not born into it. But it isn't just the house that needs work, no the land too is affected by the curse that has fallen over everything. 

Bryony is more than a little confused by her new husband. Arthur always keeps a distance between them. He disappears and she never sees him during the day. And his office/study she is to stay out of it, no matter what, even if he blows things up on occasion. Then there is his talk that all she's doing is worthless if he can't fix something with his magic.

As the story progresses one begins to wonder if Bryony will ever discover what Arthur's secret is. I know I wanted to know what he was doing. This was a fun read based on a retelling of East of the Sun and West of the Moon. I found it to be very engaging and loved how we never are quite sure what to make of Arthur, who at times could be sweet and charming and at other times a grumbly grouch.

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

About the Book:

The proudest day of Bryony’s life is the day her father, the village carpenter, is knighted for saving the king. The worst is when she learns the king has a reward for her, too: marriage to a stranger. Not just any stranger, but an earl with a frightening reputation.

Bryony arrives at Aberarth expecting polished floors, bustling servants, and a grand welcome. She’s met with an empty, neglected house and withered fields.

But Bryony isn’t delicate. She’s a village girl with stubborn optimism and capable hands. No servants? A new husband who's too busy making mysterious magical explosions in his study to help with the laundry? Fine. She’ll rebuild Aberarth herself. First step: leave milk on the hearth for the household brownies. Then she'll roll up her sleeves and get to work.

Because Bryony isn’t alone. Brownies, gremlins, dryads, kobolds—the fae have had reason to stay hidden. As Bryony coaxes the estate back to life, old magic stirs. And so does something dangerous and tender between her and the eccentric young earl. But Aberarth’s decay is a warning. Is Bryony the key to waking its true power—or the bait that triggers what’s buried beneath it?

A Batch of Bears and Bewitchment, a retelling of East of the Sun and West of the Moon, is a standalone novella, complete with tropes such as arranged marriage, friends to lovers, and villager to countess. It is part of The Enchanting Confections series, a collection of clean and cozy stories guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth.