Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christmas. Show all posts

12.07.2021

Reclaiming Hope ~ Review

Reclaiming Hope
Hooper Island #6
By Carolyn Miller

Callie Steele's life is steady and reliable just like her - so what if it mostly revolves around work? She loves what she does. But when she is tasked with coming up with assisting presenting a potential client an estimate for landscaping work she never anticipated it would be a life-changing event.

Kai Brody is near his wit's end with his surfer career on hold while he recovers from an injury. His parents are determined that he should give up all his fun and games and join the family business. Kai isn't so sure he is ready to give it all up. With weeks of time to fill on Hooper Island, he is more than pleased when Callie Steele shows up and delighted when she holds her own with his mother.

Callie doesn't have time for fun and she's never been the object of any guy's attention so when Kai focuses on her she is more than a little shocked. And when he gets her to step out of her structured and organized world and have fun and even enjoy it no one is more surprised than she is. 

But can two people so different in personality and background ever have a future together? Callie is about to find out. And then there is a little secret that Kai is keeping that could destroy everything.

Reclaiming Hope is the sixth book in the Hooper Island series and the nineteenth book in the Independence Island series. This is a fun and thoughtful book that will have you cheering on Callie and Kai as they work through life and navigate what could be the most momentous friendship of both their lives. These characters come to life with all the charm and realism that fans of Carolyn Miller have come to expect from her. A delightful island escape is waiting for you between this cover - perfect for a staycation in your favorite reading corner.

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


About the Book:
Opposites attract—and repel. But which is more powerful?

Callie Steele might be a bit… focused on work, but despite what her employers say, she enjoys her well-ordered, productive life.

When she’s sent to meet the owners of an estate requiring post-hurricane landscaping, Callie meets their son, Kai Brody, a super-chilled pro surfer, who is as opposite from her as they come. Though initially smitten, Callie knows a relationship with Kai is a bad idea—a very bad idea.

Kai, however, can’t help but be intrigued by someone who challenges him to make something of his life again. He’s determined to pursue her if she’ll give him half a chance.

The more time they spend together, negotiating the challenges of work, illness, and family, the more their opposing outlooks clash and connect. What do these unlikely friends really want from life? Is it best to focus on work or recreation?

As Kai and Callie seek answers from the Lord, they also must consider if such complete opposites have enough in common to make a relationship last.

Reclaiming Hope concludes the Hooper Island stories of the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

12.03.2021

A Small-Town Christmas Challenge ~ Review

A Small-Town Christmas Challenge
Widow's Peak Creek #3
By Susanne Dietze

A holiday inheritance...
   with strings attached.

When Leah Dean is gifted half a house, she can't believe it isn't a mistake. But Rowena Hughes knows what she wants and she wants to give her house to Leah and Pastor Benton Hunt. There is just one little catch - they have to revive the Gingerbread Gala that used to be held in the old home. 

With full lives already busy with so many commitments pulling together a major Christmas event may be a bigger challenge than they were can handle. But Leah and Benton want to give Rowena one last Gala before she gives them her home. Rowena's gift could give her the means she needs for her grandmother's care. 

Working together the two form a friendship but something more isn't going to happen. Nope. Now they just have to make their hearts follow their heads.

This is a sweet read and perfect for getting you in a Christmas mood. Neither Leah nor Benton is looking for romance, much less marriage with their pasts and their current burdens, but sometimes life others you a path you hadn't planned on taking. I love the small-town setting and having lived in such a setting I can attest to the power of the small-town rumor mill and the care one needs to take in all your actions. But this was a delightful book and one can easily read it without having read the previous books set in Widow's Peak Creek. Looking for a sweet escape into a clean read you need to read A Small-Town Christmas Challenge. Happy endings, friendship, and romance what more could you hope for from a Love Inspired Romance.

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



Publisher Love Inspired

Available to purchase athttps://amzn.to/3ozVDgv

Book Blurb

Will reviving an old tradition be the start of something new?

When she inherits a beautiful historic house, nurse Leah Dean knows selling it could solve all her problems. But there’s just one catch—she and co-owner Pastor Benton Hunt must cohost the Gingerbread Gala in the home first. As Christmas approaches, Leah and Benton grow closer, and parting with the house—and each other—is not as easy as they thought…

A Widow's Peak Creek Story

Giveaway – (1) winner will receive a print copy of the book and a $20 Starbucks gift card(US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Instagram is not affiliated with nor responsible for this giveaway. Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on December 9, 2021.)


To Enter,  go to my Instagram post and follow @susannedietze @justreadtours & Tag 2 friends in the same comment on that post or any other Instagram-hosted post of this tour. Enter up to 3x per post. 


11.29.2021

Their Yuletide Healing ~ Review

Their Yuletide Healing

Their Yuletide Healing 
Bliss, Texas#4

by Mindy Obenhaus

They deserve a perfect Christmas...
and Max and Maggie's foster mom Rae Girard is prepared to do everything in her power to ensure that they get it. But how to reach two children traumatized by the abuse they saw will take some work and maybe some help. And Rae doesn't do help easily.  

When Bliss's Mistletoe Ball lands in the middle of her life Rae is less than thrilled, especially when Cole Heinsohn is asked to "help" her pull it all together. Cole is everything Rae isn't aloof, grim, unsocial, and not a fan of Christmas. How such a person is expected to help is beyond Rae's imagination, but Cole proves to be a surprise especially when he takes an active interest in both Max and Maggie.

Romance is something neither Rae nor Cole is interested in due to their painful pasts so of course one expects that to go out the window. And what follows is a sweet story of care, concern, and a chance at family. Their Yuletide Healing is one of those leave-you-happy books though there are a few times you may want to have a tissue or two nearby. A perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit. And there is even a special visit with Santa that is more than a little touching.

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


ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Their Yuletide Healing 
Series: Bliss, Texas 
Author: Mindy Obenhaus 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: November 30, 2021 
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance 

As her plans unravel, can she give her children what they truly need? 

Foster mom Rae Girard’s determined to make her children’s first Christmas with her the best they’ve ever had—and she’s shocked when the town scrooge, attorney Cole Heinsohn, offers to pitch in. Rae’s young charges have melted Cole’s heart, and he wants them to experience the special day he never had. But when disaster strikes, an imperfect holiday might bring them something better: a family…

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | ChristianBook | BookBub

MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES


Mindy Obenhaus 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author Mindy Obenhaus lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups and countless cattle. She’s passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her in the kitchen, spending time with her grandchildren or roaming the ranch in search of inspiration. She’d love to connect with you via her website, mindyobenhaus.com, or on Facebook.

CONNECT WITH MINDY: Website | Facebook | Instagram

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a copy of all four Bliss, Texas series books and a $20 Amazon gift card.

Their Yuletide Healing JustRead Giveaway 
(1) winner will receive a copy of four Bliss, Texas series books and a $20 Amazon gift card. (US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Instagram is not affiliated with nor responsible for this giveaway. Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on December 6, 2021.) 
To Enter, go to my Instagram post and follow @mindy.obenhaus, @justreadtours, & Tag 2 friends in the same comment on this Instagram post or any other hosted post of this tour. Enter up to 3x per post.

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

11.23.2021

Have Yourself a Christiansen Christmas ~ Review

 
Have Yourself A Christiansen Christmas
By Susan May Warren

The Christiansen brood has all grown up with most of the kids married with their own growing families. Everything looks perfect from the outside but secretly everyone is dealing with things that could forever alter the course their lives are now following.

When it appears that tragedy has decided to make an appearance the family makes its way home for what could be their last Christmas together in Deep Haven, Minnesota. Could this be the end of their happily-ever-after?  

As each of the Christiansen kids/couples deal with what life has given them they need a good dose of expertise and wisdom that only their parents can offer them. So come home to Deep Haven and Evergreen Resort for some good old-fashioned advice that can only come from the heart.

Fans of the Christiansen family or of Deep Haven will love this newest addition. It was fun catching up with the Christiansen clan as they experienced life. Not everything is perfect but this is life as anyone would experience it which makes it a better read.

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

About the Book:
Owen picked back up on the first ring. “Hey. Sorry. I’m in the middle of something here, so I couldn’t wait. I’m not sure I’m going to be able to make it, Ames. I have a small kerfuffle I’m into here, but, I’ll do my best.”

“Please try. Not to be dramatic, but it might be the last Christmas we all spend together.”



Please…come home for Christmas…

It's Christmas in the winter wonderland town of Deep Haven, and the Christiansen kids are all heading home for the holidays. But no one feels very merry.
  • Grace is worried about her husband's life-changing illness…
  • Eden is facing devastating news…
  • Casper is in over his head (of course!)…
  • Amelia is dodging a walk down the aisle…
  • Owen…well, Owen just nearly died, again…
  • But it's Darek who has news that just might destroy the family legacy.
The trip home for all is filled with secrets, memories, and old dreams. But when they discover the real reason they've been asked home for the holidays, it will shake their world. It'll take a disaster for them to discover that home is the place for answers, hope, and most of all…miracles.

This year, spend Christmas with your favorite small-town family.

11.08.2021

Slothy Claus ~ Review

Slothy Claus
By Jodie Shepherd
Illustrated by MacKenzie Haley

Slothy Claus is based on Clement Clarke Moore's Night Before Christmas but Slothy Claus is nothing like Santa Claus. Slothy Claus has to take numerous breaks while loading gifts on his sleigh. Meanwhile cute little creatures all over the world are preparing for Slothy's Christmas Eve visit. But when Christmas morning comes disappointment covers the world - Slothy never made it. No presents were under the tree and the stockings were limp. 

But when faced with what they hadn't received, they instead focused on what they have - love, hope, kindness, and many other things, including one another. They discovered Christmas was something that could be celebrated all year long not just in December and with gifts.

The illustrations are colorful and cute - a sure attention holder for young listeners and a perfect match to the story. So gather your little ones close and snuggle into your favorite reading corner and enjoy.      

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

What will children do when a sluggish Slothy Claus doesn’t make it to their home in time for Christmas morning? This charming story helps kids learn that Christmas is about more than just presents under the tree.

Slothy Claus has lots of presents for good boys and girls this year, but how is this notoriously lethargic animal supposed to travel all around the world in just one night? You guessed it! Slothy takes his sweet time, and when kids wake up to empty stockings and bare trees, it feels like Christmas is ruined! How will they ever find happiness without their chocolates and toys?

Slothy Claus is equal parts humorous and heartwarming. Children ages 4 to 8 will

  • learn that the joy of Christmas doesn’t come from material things but from the love between family and friends
  • enjoy the delightfully funny one-of-a-kind artwork
  • love the classic rhyme that will fill your own family’s Christmas with love, laughter, and a spirit of giving

Slothy Claus concludes with a summer scene complete with flip flops and a barbecue when Slothy Claus finally flies down in his sleigh to deliver gift after gift–for a special celebration of Christmas in July. With a bright, glittery cover, this fun picture book is the perfect gift for advent or Christmas.


Review tour for SLOTHY CLAUS and NIGHT NIGHT, ANGEL:

Monday, October 25th: @bookshelfmomma

Tuesday, October 26th: @literannie

Wednesday, October 27th: Stranded in Chaos and @sarastrand9438

Thursday, October 28th: @shobizreads

Friday, October 29th: Write Read Life

Monday, November 1st: @irishgirliereads

Wednesday, November 3rd: She Just Loves Books and @shejustlovesbooks

Friday, November 5th: View from the Birdhouse

Friday, November 5th: Books, Tea, Healthy Me

Monday, November 8th: Blooming with Books

Wednesday, November 10th: A Holland Reads

Friday, November 12th: @celiamcmahonreads

Monday, November 15th: Diary of a Stay at Home Mom

Tuesday, November 16th: @bookscallmyheart

Wednesday, November 17th: Run Wright and @karen_runwrightreads

Thursday, November 18th: @parksidereads

Monday, November 22nd: Christian Chick’s Thoughts and @cctblog

Wednesday, November 24th: From the TBR Pile

Monday, November 29th: Bookworm for Kids


Night Night, Angel ~ Review

Night Night, Angel
By Amy Parker
Illustrated by Virginia Allyn

It's time to gather your little one's near and enjoy this delightful board book that celebrates the simple joys of the Christmas season. As the fox family comes together and prepares for Christmas delightful illustrations bring the story to life. Gifts and treats are made to give and share in preparation for the greatest gift of all - the gift of God's Son come that first Christmas night.

This book is for the youngest readers and listeners but older kids who enjoy animals and illustrated books should enjoy this as well. This is a lovely way to share the true joy of the season with the children in your life. Makes a perfect gift!

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




‘Tis the season for joy! Celebrate the family fun and season’s blessings of Christmas with a young arctic fox as your family remembers that Jesus is the best gift of all. Amy Parker’s delightful rhymes and Virginia Allyn’s sweet illustrations make Night Night, Angel the perfect read-aloud for toddlers and preschoolers enjoying the Christmas season.

Little fox loves all the excitement that Christmas brings to the forest: making creative presents, placing the star on the tree, and making sure she is spotlight-ready for the big Christmas play. But soon she realizes that the perfect gift has already been given through the baby who arrived on the first Christmas night!

As the fourth seasonal title in the hugely successful Night Night bedtime storybook brand, this Christmas board book

  • gives families a fun way to say goodnight during the Advent season
  • celebrates the special moments of family holiday activities
  • gently reminds children that Baby Jesus is the reason for the season

The Christmas theme and sparkling cover make Night Night, Angel perfect for an Advent gift, stocking stuffer, or Christmas morning surprise from parents, grandparents, Sunday school teachers, and friends. Your little angel will be ready to snuggle in for the night as together you celebrate the many blessings of Christmas!

Review tour for SLOTHY CLAUS and NIGHT NIGHT, ANGEL:

Monday, October 25th: @bookshelfmomma

Tuesday, October 26th: @literannie

Wednesday, October 27th: Stranded in Chaos and @sarastrand9438

Thursday, October 28th: @shobizreads

Friday, October 29th: Write Read Life

Monday, November 1st: @irishgirliereads

Wednesday, November 3rd: She Just Loves Books and @shejustlovesbooks

Friday, November 5th: View from the Birdhouse

Friday, November 5th: Books, Tea, Healthy Me

Monday, November 8th: Blooming with Books

Wednesday, November 10th: A Holland Reads

Friday, November 12th: @celiamcmahonreads

Monday, November 15th: Diary of a Stay at Home Mom

Tuesday, November 16th: @bookscallmyheart

Wednesday, November 17th: Run Wright and @karen_runwrightreads

Thursday, November 18th: @parksidereads

Monday, November 22nd: Christian Chick’s Thoughts and @cctblog

Wednesday, November 24th: From the TBR Pile

Monday, November 29th: Bookworm for Kids

10.01.2021

The Single Dad's Holiday Match ~ Review with Bookstagram Giveaway

The Single Dad's Holiday Match

Smoky Mountain First Responders #1
By Tanya Agler

Brooke Novak has just started her job as director of The Whitley Community Center, it's a job she hopes will last well beyond her six-month contract. But everything is put in jeopardy when Officer Jonathan Maxwell walks through the center's door. 

Hollydale, North Carolina, has a problem. Someone is suspected of using the community center to create and distribute fake ids to underage kids. There is just one problem there is no proof, all they have is a fake id and the mutterings of a teen. And now Jonathan'll have to work closely with Brooke.

Brooke and her teenage son Caleb just might be what Jonathan needs to loosen his dedication to his job. But with two daughters of his own at home there just isn't room in his life for a romance. Or is there?

This is a contemporary romance that is perfect for the season. Just look at the cover and you'll want to find a cozy sweater to pull on. And yes, it does take us to the Christmas season but that just allows time for Brooke and Jonathan time to get to know one another and have lots of second thoughts about what they want out of life and with each other.

‘Tis the season… For unexpected love! 

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

 
 
ABOUT THE BOOK

‘Tis the season… For unexpected love! 


Officer Jonathan Maxwell is just as devoted to his job as he is to his two young daughters, leaving zero time for a social life. Until he meets Brooke Novak. The newly hired community center director is a single parent, too, and also part of his latest investigation. Jonathan needs Brooke’s help if he’s going to close his case by Thanksgiving…but she might be the biggest distraction from keeping his mind on his job.
 

Available for purchase at Amazon 

GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a signed print copy of the book, a $20 Kindle gift card, & clip-on reading light. (print US only, ebook international. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Instagram is not affiliated with nor responsible for this giveaway. Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on October 5, 2021.)




To Enter, go to @Bloomingwbooks and on Instagram follow @tanyaaglerauthor @justreadtours & Tag 2 friends in the same comment on this post or any other hosted post of this tour. Enter up to 3x per post.

And be sure to follow me on Instagram to learn about other great reads!



1.03.2021

The Fruitcake Challenge ~ Review

The Fruitcake Challenge
Christy Lumber Camp #1
By Carrie Fancett Pagels
Narrated by Virginia Gray

Jo Christy has no desire to spend the rest of her days in her family's lumber camp, and she certainly has no intention of marrying a lumberjack. So when Tom Jefferies joins up with the camp, she is less than thrilled with his attentions. 

Tom Jefferies has left behind the life he has known for the lumber camps of Michigan. Working as a lumberjack pays better than his previous job as a teacher. It is hard work, but he needs the pay to help support his mother. He never expected to meet someone like Miss Josephine Christy working at the Christy Family Lumber Camp. 

Jo Christy seems determined to ignore all of Tom's flattery and attempts at courting. But when Tom issues his Fruitcake Challenge, she sees this as the perfect opportunity to put him in his place. But as the fruitcake challenge progresses, she has a chance to get to know Tom better - if only he wasn't a lumberjack.

I experienced this book in the audio format, and it was well presented. The narration by Virginia Gray fits well with the story. I did listen to the book at 1.2 speed (or faster), but I always listen to my audiobooks faster than the default speed - I listen at the pace I read. But even at the regular speed, the pacing is good. 

If you want an enjoyable escape to 1890s Michigan's lumber camps, this is the perfect way to do so. This is a clean read. I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of Historical Fiction, are fascinated by America's logging past, or have a thing for fruitcake. 

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

About the Book:
Title: The Fruitcake Challenge
By: Dr. Carrie Fancett Pagels
Narrated by: Virginia Gray
Series: Christy Lumber Camp, Book 1
Length: 3 hrs and 12 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 11-24-20
Language: English
Publisher: Carrie Fancett Pagels

When new lumberjack Tom Jeffries tells the camp cook, Jo Christy, that he’ll marry her if she can make a fruitcake “as good as the one my mother makes,” she rises to the occasion. After all, he’s the handsomest, smartest, and strongest axman her camp-boss father has ever had in his camp - and the cockiest. And she intends to bring this lumberjack down a notch or three by refusing his proposal. The fruitcake wars are on! All the shanty boys and Jo’s cooking helpers chip in with their recipes, but Jo finds she’ll have to enlist more help - and begins corresponding with Tom’s mother. 

Step back in time to 1890, in beautiful Northern Michigan, near the sapphire straits of Mackinac, when the white pines were “white gold,” and lumber camps were a way of life. Jo is ready to find another life outside of the camps and plans that don’t include any shanty boys. But will a lumberjack keep her in the very place she’s sworn to leave?

1.02.2021

Legacy of Love ~ Review

Legacy of Love

Haven Manor #1.5
By Kristi Ann Hunter

Sometimes one just needs to escape into a book and this novella was just what I needed. This sweet Christmas story finds Sarah Gooding in service to the Dowager Countess of Densbury, as her companion. But the Countess is in failing health, something her family doesn't seem to realize but Sarah sees it as the woman, who has become more than an employer, becomes frailer as Christmas approaches.

Randall Everard is more than a little shocked at his grandmother's deterioration since his last visit. And when he hears his family's plans to put her aside he is more than a little surprised at his grandmother's companion speaking out so forcefully against their lack of regard for her comfort. Sarah's championing of his grandmother allows Randall to see her as something other than a mousy, silent shadow. 

As the Countess sets plans in motion for her final Christmas she brings Randall and Sarah together in her own special way allowing them to get to know one another for who they truly are rather than their societal station. And her final gift is a legacy of love.

This novella is part of the Haven Manor series but it can be read as a standalone title. A perfect introduction to the series or Kristi Ann Hunter's work if you have never before read her.

About the Book:

When Sarah Gooding returned a valuable brooch to the elderly Dowager Countess of Densbury, she had no idea it would lead to a job as the lively woman's companion. Nor did she expect to admire the Dowager's youngest grandson so much, even though the difference in their stations means nothing will ever come of her daydreams.

12.19.2020

Covert Amish Christmas ~ Review

Covert Amish Christmas
By Mary Alford

Victoria Kauffman has spent the last year running for her life. Since her partner and unit were killed on an operation gone horribly wrong she's been trying to stay one step ahead of rogue CIA operatives whom she believes are behind everything. She just needs to find the proof-there is just one problem she has no idea what she is looking for. And worse is the guilt over the life she has led as a CIA agent, the things she has done eat at her, stealing any hope for peace. 

Aaron Shelter has been living with his guilt over his wife's death, no matter what anyone thinks he knows it is his fault she didn't seek the help she needed sooner. When he finds a woman in need of his help he isn't about to repeat the mistakes of the past. But this time offering help could get him and those he loves killed.

As Victoria, Aaron, and his family spend Christmas trying to elude ruthless killers, Victoria's only hope lies with contacting her former commander. But when you are in the heart of Amish country communication is not easily accomplished. 

If you are a fan of Amish suspense that is a clean read you will enjoy this offering from the Love Inspired Suspense brand. At times Victoria and Aaron's dwelling on their guilt can be a little much but overall this was a good read. All the action takes place in approximately a day so there is a lot crammed into this time period but that is to be expected with these books. I will admit I had a few suspicions as to who was the guilty party so don't be surprised if you aren't surprised at the reveal of the mastermind.  

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


About the Book:

Fleeing to Amish country
might be the only way to survive Christmas…

Hiding in Amish country, former CIA agent Victoria Kauffman’s determined to find evidence to catch the corrupt agents who killed her partner. But when her Christmas refuge is discovered, the sole person she can trust is Amish widower Aaron Shetler. With ruthless—and dangerously powerful—enemies after them, Victoria must use all her training to make sure they live through the holidays.



11.30.2020

Joy to the World ~ Review

Joy to the World
A Regency Christmas Collection
By Carolyn Miller,
  Amanda Barratt,
     and Erica Vetsch

Heaven and Nature Sing
By Carolyn Miller

Edith Mansfield broke the heart of the only man she ever loved. George Bannerman could not understand why Edith broke off the understanding they had but she had. Unfortunately through the machinations of their godmother, Lady Grantley, they are to spend the holiday together as invited members of her Christmas House Party. Could this Christmas get any worse?

What follows is a series of incidents that allow these two musically included hurting people to put the past behind them. There is just one little problem the Mansfield pride could once again stand in their way. But Christmas miracles can happen and with a little nudge from Lady Grantley this year wishes just might come true.  

Far as the Curse is Found
by Amanda Barratt

Jenny Grey's life has never been an easy one and all too often she has been a cast-off and those who have offered help from her earliest memories have never refrained from reminding her of this. Caring for a child on her own with her pittance of a wage is almost impossible. And when she is in her most desperate moment help finds her in the form of a masked and cloaked stranger.

Dwight Inglewood, the Earl of Amberly, has closed off the world. Scarred by the war, he has assumed the title that his brother was to hold. But his scars aren't the worst of it, he has to live with the guilt of his best friend's death. He lives in the darkness, away from the prying eyes that judge him. This escape allows him to offer a desperate young woman a place on his estate.

Could this act of heroism and kindness offer these two broken people a second chance at life? Or will the wounds of the past hold them too firmly in its grip of helplessness? With Christmas fast approaching could the season be what they need?

Wonders of His Love
by Erica Vetsch

Lady Priscilla Haverly was supposed to be the Duchess, but instead, she finds herself a young widow with a daughter who will never inherit, serving at the whim of her mother-in-law. Cilla longs to live but she's not exactly sure what that would even look like. With her sister-in-law, Charlotte expecting, Cilla finds herself sitting in for Charlotte as a model as her likeness is painted. 

Hamish Sinclair's dreams of being a sought after and commissioned painter are teetering on the edge. The commission at Haverly Manor is his last and unless he gets accepted into the Royal Academy of Arts it could very well be his last. As he paints Cilla he sees glimpses of a woman hidden within the structures that have shaped her life. The glimpses he sees make him wish for something more that he knows he can never have. A struggling artist, the son of a stable-master, who is he to even think of the widow of the nobility? But think he does.

Can love be an option for Cilla if her mother-in-law has determined she is to wed another of her choosing? This will be a Christmas not to be forgotten as Cilla determines if she will do as she ordered or to finally follow her heart.

These three stories are a delightful Regency assortment. And if you are unfamiliar with any of the authors a great way to be introduced to them. Having read Carolyn Miller's previous works I enjoyed a reference to a character in those books (no hints just read). These stories fall into the gentle read category in my opinion and are an excellent choice if you just need to take a break and sit-a-spell. No story is overly long and can easily be enjoyed over a long afternoon.

Grab a hot cup of tea and a favorite Christmas cookie or two and enjoy a season step back in time!

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

About the Book:


Inspirational Regency romance with a Christmas twist from three best-selling authors

In Joy to the World, three popular authors come together to offer a heartwarming collection of holiday Regency romance. Based on lines from a beloved Christmas carol, these three novellas in one book have depth, faith, and satisfying stories all packed into the perfect length for readers to curl up and take a brief break from their holiday busyness.

"Heaven and Nature Sing" by Carolyn Miller
Two music lovers, deeply devoted to each other, were on the brink of engagement when family circumstances drove them apart. How can they ever overcome their obligations and fears to find their way back into each other's arms?

"Far as the Curse is Found" by Amanda Barratt
One winter night, a woman struggling to provide for her illegitimate child encounters a scarred veteran of the Napoleonic Wars on the streets of London. Can love conquer the darkness of two broken pasts?

"Wonders of His Love" by Erica Vetsch
A Scots portrait painter with a hidden identity finds work at a noble manor house over the holidays. He never imagined he'd fall in love with the emotionally frozen widow there. Now he wants nothing more than to thaw her heart.

11.06.2020

Covert Amish Christmas ~ Blog Blitz and Giveaway

Covert Amish Christmas Blog Blitz 

Welcome to the Blog Blitz & Giveaway for 

Covert Amish Christmas by Mary Alford, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Covert Amish Christmas

Title: Covert Amish Christmas 
Author: Mary Alford
Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense
Release Date: November 1, 2020
Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Fleeing to Amish country
might be the only way to survive Christmas…
 

Hiding in Amish country, former CIA agent Victoria Kauffman’s determined to find evidence to catch the corrupt agents who killed her partner. But when her Christmas refuge is discovered, the sole person she can trust is Amish widower Aaron Shetler. With ruthless—and dangerously powerful—enemies after them, Victoria must use all her training to make sure they live through the holidays.

PURCHASE LINKS*: GoodreadsAmazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | Christianbook

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Alford 

USA Today Bestselling Author, Mary Alford, loves giving her readers the unexpected, whether it be in a rugged mountain setting or a simple Amish community. Her titles have appeared on the USA Today Bestselling List, Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling List, and has been a finalist in the Daphne Du Maurier award of excellence in mystery, The Beverly, The Maggie, and The Selah Awards. 

Mary is published through Annie’s Publishing, Love Inspired Suspense, Forget Me Not Romances, and she is an Indie Published Author. As a writer, Mary is an avid reader. She loves to cook, can’t face the day without coffee, and her three granddaughters are the apple of her eye. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog. 

Mary is very active online and would love to connect with readers on Facebook and Twitter or any social platforms listed at www.maryalford.net

CONNECT WITH MARY: Website | Facebook | Twitter


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a Bath and Body Gift Basket for women and men. 
This 9 Piece Vanilla Coconut Home Spa Set includes Fragrant Lotions, 
Extra Large Bath Bombs, Coconut Oil, a Luxurious Bath Towel, 
and More!

Covert Amish Christmas JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. 
The full tour schedule is linked below. 
The giveaway will begin at midnight on November 5, 2020, 
and last through 11:59 PM EST on November 12, 2020. 

The winner will be notified within 2 weeks of the close of the giveaway
and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of the prize. 
Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


 

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

JustRead Publicity Tours 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.