The Broken Crown ~ Review

The Broken Crown

The Narrow Gate #1

By Amory Cannon

Emilia Aurelius has been forgotten by her father since the day her mother died as a traitor - for believing in a single God, a God that the Empire's rebels worship. But having served in a military outpost for most of the time since has made her strong and capable. As her father's only heir, her upbringing has ill-prepared her when she is summoned to the imperial city to vie for the crown prince's hand. 

Yup, she is in major trouble. Not only does she not know how to act like a proper princess, she secretly follows the same God that her mother did. Fortunately, the crown prince has entrusted her safety to his most trusted personal guard, Felix.

The Broken Crown is the first book in The Narrow Gate series, and it is packed full of drama as Emilia tries to determine just what she is supposed to do. Does she keep her beliefs secret? Is it her destiny to marry the future Emperor and then reveal her allegiances? It is a lot for a seventeen-year-old girl to figure out while surviving the political perils that are closing in around her.

I found this book to be engaging, and it held my interest from the first sentence. This is written for the YA audience, but it should appeal to older readers too. Readers of Jill Williamson (Blood of Kings series), Melanie Dickerson, Melanie Cellier, and Jennifer Nielsen (False King series) should enjoy this book/series.

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

About the Book:

Release Date: May 23, 2016
Genre: Clean YA Fiction

Princess Emilia Aurelius was only seven when she watched her mother die at the hands of her father—martyred for believing in the God of the Atlas Empire’s Insurgo rebels. At seventeen, exiled to a military outpost where no one knows her true identity, she’s vowed to leave her royalty behind and explore the truth of the Insurgo rebels her mother loved.

When the Emperor of Atlas summons the princesses from each of the provinces to the imperial city to choose a wife for the crown prince, Emilia must leave her military life behind to join a royal court rife with cunning and intrigue. Navigating the waters of court politics and budding love are treacherous on their own, but Emilia fears for her life should anyone learn of her Insurgo sympathies.

With an unlikely ally in the captain of the emperor’s guard, Emilia must uncover the truth of the Insurgos, start a revolution, and learn to become the princess she’s vowed never to be, all while protecting her heart from a prince who could sign her death warrant.

The Desolate Reign ~ Review

The Desolate Reign

The Narrow Gate #2

By Amory Cannon

Emilia Aurelius has escaped the capital city with Felix, Hannah, Cecelia, Antony, and a contingent of soldiers with loyalty to Felix. But something about their escape seems too easy. 

And she's more than hurt at Ronan's silence when she was sentenced to death; she's angry. And she is faced with making decisions she never expected to have to make. Does she claim the crown of Borealis following her father's murder? Or does she go in search of the Insurgos?

At 17 years old, Emilia Aurelius has seen more than most young women her age, definitely more than a princess. But Emilia is no ordinary princess, having spent most of her life in exile following her mother's death for treason. She can fight better than most of the soldiers she has trained with. But acting like a princess is something she is not prepared for. And taking the reigns of a nation and leading even less.

But as Emilia finds out, even though she is free from the Empire, she is still being manipulated. But now she is manipulated by more than the royal court. But to bring peace, she will give up what she truly wants. But will her sacrifices bring peace between the Insurgos and Borealis, and by extension, the Empire? 

The Desolate Reign is the second book in The Narrow Way series, and if possible, more intense than The Broken Crown. Emelia and Felix are caught in the circumstances of who they are. Felix is as mysterious as can be - his past is unknown. And both are determined to do their duty, but where will it lead them? Emelia feels a pull and a voice seems to be asking her to do something, but how can she know what the right answer is? 

I found this book to be engaging, and it held my interest from the first sentence. This is written for the YA audience, but it should appeal to older readers too. Readers of Jill Williamson (Blood of Kings series), Melanie Dickerson, Melanie Cellier, and Jennifer Nielsen (False King series) should enjoy this book/series.

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

About the Book:

Release Date: February 20, 2020
Genre: Clean YA Fiction

Emilia Aurelius should be a queen, but she’d settle for not being a fugitive. Taking refuge in the Borealis court seems to be her only chance to find a haven from Emperor Cyrus, who is playing a dangerous game of power with a set of rules all his own. Unfortunately, her own country is on the brink of civil war, attacked from within and without by the very people she’s sworn to save—the Insurgos.

With the truth of the Insurgos’ God and agenda murkier than ever, Emilia embarks on a treacherous quest for truth and her rightful place as queen. Neither will come without a price. Political pressure may force her to choose between her crown and her heart, while the search for ancient secrets unearths more questions than answers.

A mysterious prisoner may hold the information she seeks if she’s willing to bargain. What is the Narrow Gate? Can she finish what she started and save the Insurgos from extinction… even if they don’t want to be saved?

The Best Intentions ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for

  The Best Intentions by Sarah M. Eden, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

The Best Intentions 

The Huntresses #1 

By Sarah M. Eden 

Gillian Phelps is the poor relation. She knows it. The ton knows it. But the worse thing about her is the secret she's been keeping. A secret that, if known, could destroy her and all those who call her friend. There are few people she trusts, and no one except her benefactor knows her darkest secret.

Two years ago, Scott Sarvol inherited his late uncle's title and, along with it, his mounting debts and declining estates. On the verge of debtor's prison, Scott hopes that an unknown portion of his inheritance can save him from certain doom. His worth is tied to his ability to save an estate that was on the verge of collapse before he took over. He has no time to pursue a London season or a wealthy wife. But when he is unexpectedly pulled into a house party, he never expected to further complicate his life, but that is exactly what happens when he meets Gillian.

Gillian is wary of the stranger in their midst. But when Scott provides the means to aid her, she begins to warm to him. And when his presence offers her a chance to provide comfort to her benefactor Gillian isn't above asking for Scott's "help." Soon Gillian finds herself in need of something more. Could Scott be the answer she seeks, or will his tottering social standing be another hindrance that could destroy them both?

The Best Intension is the first full-length book in The Huntresses series. A series that promises to reveal more secrets on the path to love. There are moments when one would love to shake both Gillian and Scott and say just stop it. Share your troubles and accept the offered help or words of wisdom those around them have to offer.

This is a delightful book that will introduce readers to previous characters from the author's earlier works (yes, I number myself among this number). You will like I did add some backstories to your TBR Pile. But this book can be read as a stand-alone, at least until the next book in the series releases. I found this to be an easy read and read it over the Thanksgiving holiday with plenty of time to spend with family.

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: The Best Intentions 

Series: The Huntresses #1 

Author: Sarah M. Eden 

Publisher: Covenant Communications 

Release Date: November 21, 2022 

Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance/Historical/Regency

In the eyes of London Society, Gillian Phelps is suitable enough. Though the ton whispers about her change of residence, any speculation remains just that: ballroom gossip. No one—not even the other Huntresses, the group of ladies she calls her dearest friends—knows that she is harboring a devastating family secret. Gillian has become adept at hiding the reality of her circumstances, but the close quarters of a house party will test her ability to conceal the crushing truth. And with so many people to deceive, the late arrival of another guest is a most unwelcome surprise.

Despite his standing as a gentleman of the ton, in truth, Scott Sarvol possesses little more than two debt-riddled estates. When an opportunity arises to survey one of his properties, he travels north, only to find himself an unwitting guest at Artemis Jonquil’s house party. He is warmly welcomed by all—except the aloof Miss Gillian Phelps. But when Scott proves himself unexpectedly helpful in a crisis, his acquaintance with Gillian shifts from wariness to something warmer. As both her charade and her feelings for Scott deepen, Gillian realizes that the truth could spell not only a devastating fall from Society but also a shattered heart.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah M. Eden is a USA Today bestselling author of multiple historical romances, including AML's "2013 Novel of the Year" and Foreword Review’s 2013 “IndieFab Book of the Year” gold medal winner for Best Romance, Longing for Home, and the Whitney Award's "2014 Novel of the Year," Longing for Home: Hope Springs. Combining her obsession with history and affinity for tender love stories, Sarah loves crafting witty characters and heartfelt romances set against rich historical backdrops. She holds a Bachelor's degree in research and happily spends hours perusing the reference shelves of her local library. Sarah lives with her husband, kids, and mischievous dog in the shadow of a snow-capped mountain she has never attempted to ski.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of the book, 
a $25 Amazon gift card, a bookmark, stickers, and a button.

The full tour schedule is linked below. 
The giveaway begins at midnight on November 28, 2022, 

and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 5, 2022. 

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. 

US only. 

Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

 

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A Nanny for the Rancher's Twins ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for 

A Nanny for the Rancher's Twins by Heidi Main,

 hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

A Nanny for the Rancher's Twins 

By Heidi Main

Laney Taylor has plans for her late aunt and uncle's ranch, and they don't involve allowing the neighbor's cattle to roam everywhere freely. But Ethan McCaw isn't about to give up on the land that he has been leasing. If he hopes to keep his family's ranch going, he needs to convince Laney to change her mind. Which is easier said than done. 

Laney and Ethan are both focused on pursuing their dream - Ethan of keeping his ranch as a family business and Laney turning her ranch into a wedding venue. But Ethan needs to access to Laney's land that he has been leasing the rights to for years. And Laney needs the land for her wedding venues but she also needs the funds the lease provides. Can they reach a compromise? Or will both their dreams and goals be lost to them forever?

When Ethan offers his assistance in exchange for six weeks of help with his three-year-old twin daughters, neither he nor Laney expected anything but a mutually beneficial short-term deal. Neither expected to have their hearts get involved. And that just won't do as both have a history of relationship failures that have made them vow never again. But twin girls didn't figure into their equations. 

A Nanny for the Rancher's Twins finds two people who are more than a little surprised to find that achieving their dream just may cost the other their dream. Is it possible for dreams to change? Can a compromise be worked out so that both can come true? 

Throughout, Laney and Ethan are struggling with betrayals in their pasts that are keeping them from accepting what they truly want in life. Can the betrayals have caused too much distrust and raised too many walls to ever be breached? And what if there are two adorable three-year-old heart-stealing twins involved?

This is a sweet contemporary book that deals with a whole lot of past hurts that have kept both Ethan and Laney from seeking out love. But sometimes, what our head tells us is safe disagrees with what the heart wants. And overcoming past hurts and betrayals can be a major hindrance in living life to its fullest. But how does one change? How can trying to be safe actually cause more hurt than good? These are the issues that the two are left to try to figure out, and we, as readers, are brought along on their journey. I think it is interesting how they are trying to allow two vastly different businesses to work together in the same area - a wedding venue and a cattle ranch. Living next door to cattle, I can just imagine the cleaning that would need doing before anyone in a wedding dress would want to wear their dress in that field, no matter how beautiful the view from the hilltop. Just saying cows can be a tad messy! Overall this was a nice read with not a lot of anything other than normal day-to-day living and the unexpected problems that it can bring, which admittedly can, at times, be overwhelming.

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: A Nanny for the Rancher's Twins 

Author: Heidi Main 

Publisher: Love Inspired 

Release Date: October 25, 2022 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Returning to small-town Texas was her fresh start.

She never expected a ready-made family. 

What could be better than running a rustic wedding venue? Event planner Laney Taylor has it all laid out…except for the serious renovations her inherited property needs. Rancher Ethan McCaw will help—but only if she’ll nanny his toddler twins. Laney’s all about planning weddings for others and shielding her own heart, but Ethan, Zoe and Tori might be just the ones to change her mind…

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heidi Main writes sweet inspirational romance novels set in small towns. Though she lives in central North Carolina’s suburbs, she dreams of acreage and horseback riding, which is why her novels include wide-open ranches and horses. Before starting her writing career, Heidi worked with computers and taught Jazzercise. A perfect Saturday is lounging on the deck with her husband and watching the many birds in their backyard.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and a print copy of A Nanny for the Rancher's Twins.

(1) additional winner will receive a $10 gift card and a print copy of the book.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 9, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 16, 2022. 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 HERE

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

 

Abduction Cold Case ~ Review

Abduction Cold Case

By Connie Queen

When a file about a more than twenty-year-old kidnapping lands on her desk, Kennedy Wells does her job, contacting the mother of the long-missing little girl. Suddenly she is thrust into a situation she's unprepared for - someone wants to silence her and the mother who lost her oldest child years ago. But when Texas Ranger Silas Boone comes to their rescue, he presents Kennedy with a reason why her life is in danger. But can Kennedy even consider his theory when it will destroy everything she thought she knew about herself?

Abduction Cold Case is a standalone title from the Love Inspired Suspense collection that throws the reader immediately into the action. A murder attempt, kidnappings, fraud, elder care, and an overwhelming desire for the truth - what more could you ask for? A clean read, of course, which makes this a perfectly enjoyable weekend excursion at your favorite reading corner. I, for one, have no qualms about recommending this book. I found it to be entertaining and well worth the few hours of reading it entailed.  This book has a little bit of everything one expects from Connie Queen, with no disappointments for fans of her previous books.

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:

An unsolved case. A family secret.

Getting to the truth could be deadly…

Finding a mysterious file on her desk sends psychologist Kennedy Wells chasing down clues to solve a twenty-six-year-old kidnapping—and straight into a violent assault. When Texas Ranger Silas Boone comes to Kennedy’s rescue, he can’t help but wonder at her resemblance to the long-missing girl. With someone willing to kill to end the investigation, can they uncover the truth…and live to see Christmas?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

The Danger with Diamonds ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

The Danger with Diamonds 

by Traci Hunter Abramson and Sian Ann Bessey, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

The Danger with Diamonds 

Falcon Point Suspense #1 

By Traci Hunter Abramson 

       and Sian Ann Bessey

The Danger with Diamonds is the first book in the Falcon Point Suspense series, but it is not the first book dealing with these characters. No, we were introduced to Lars Hendriks, Cole Bridger, Marit Jansen, and Isabelle Roberts in The Heirs of Falcon Point. And building on that story we are given a wonderful addition to that world with this new series debut.

Lars has been photographing the family heirlooms that were recovered in The Heirs of Falcon Point, and everyone is quite literally in the wrong place at the wrong time. Someone has decided to rob the bank where the Falcon Point jewels are being housed. But the target happens to be diamonds that Cole had to secure overnight in the same bank and the Falcon Points jewels are an added bonus.

Yes, the treasures that had been lost for years have been stolen, and the two cousins, along with Marit and Isabelle, will have to put all their skills and assets to work if they hope to clear their names, recover the jewels, the diamonds, and find out who is the mole within the CIA. And Lars and Marit have to be kept in the dark as to Cole and Isabelle's CIA affiliation. No problem!

The Danger with Diamonds is the perfect companion to The Heirs of Falcon Point, which is a prequel. There is plenty of suspense and a generous helping of clean romance blended well to craft a wonderful story. The talents of Traci Hunter Abramson and Sian Ann Bessey create a seamless story so that one doesn't get a jarring transition between their literary efforts. You can't tell where one ends, and the other begins. Now you don't have to read Heirs of Falcon Point to enjoy Danger with Diamonds but having the backstory is nice so that you'll know who Anna and Tess are when they are referred to. This book is perfect if you are looking for clean-reading Contemporary Romantic Suspense. I highly recommend this book, and it is one worthy of a reread!

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

Some secrets are worth keeping. 

Others are not.

When Lars Hendriks arranges to meet Marit Jansen in Vienna, he is hoping their friendship will blossom into romance. What he doesn’t expect is a surprise visit from his cousin Cole or the loose diamonds he brings with him.

As a CIA operative, Cole Bridger is used to uncertainty, but when his work takes him back to Vienna, he looks forward to reconnecting with Isabelle Roberts, the fellow agent he dated briefly before duty took him away from Austria. Unfortunately, his silence over the last few months has created a chasm that he can’t cross without help. He barely takes a step toward repairing the damaged relationship when a brazen jewel heist seemingly links Cole, Lars, Marit, and Isabelle to the crime. The group is drawn into a deadly mystery, and once again, the treasures of Falcon Point are threatened. It doesn’t take long for them to realize they have stumbled upon something far bigger and more dangerous than a simple robbery. And someone on the inside knows it.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Title: The Danger with Diamonds 
Series: Falcon Point Suspense #1 
Authors: Traci Hunter Abramson and Sian Ann Bessey 
Publisher: Covenant Communications 
Release Date: October 10, 2022 

Genre: Clean and Wholesome Romantic Suspense

 

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Traci Hunter Abramson was born in Arizona, where she lived until moving to Venezuela for a study-abroad program. After graduating from Brigham Young University, she worked for the Central Intelligence Agency for several years, eventually resigning in order to raise her family. She credits the CIA with giving her a wealth of ideas for suspense novels as well as the skills needed to survive her children's teenage years. She has gone on to write a number of bestselling suspense novels that have consistently been nominated as Whitney Award finalists. She considers shoes an optional accessory which became evident when she won her first three Whitney Awards in 2013 (Code Word), 2014 (Deep Cover), and 2016 (Failsafe.) Safe House won Whitney Awards for both the mystery/suspense category as well as 2017 Adult Novel of the Year. She added two additional awards in 2019 (Mistaken Reality - best mystery/suspense and Sanctuary - Adult Novel of the Year.) She currently lives in Virginia with her family where she enjoys sports, travel, writing, and recently retired from coaching high school swimming.

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

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Sian Ann Bessey was born in Cambridge, England, but grew up on the island of Anglesey off the coast of North Wales. She left her homeland to attend university in the U.S. and earned a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in English. She began her writing career as a student, publishing several magazine articles while still in college. Since then she has published historical romance and romantic suspense novels, along with a variety of children's books. She is a USA Today best selling author, a Foreward Reviews Book of the Year finalist, and a Whitney Award finalist. Although Sian doesn't have the opportunity to speak Welsh very often anymore, she can still wrap her tongue around, "Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch." She loves to travel and experience other cultures, but when she's home, her favorite activities are spending time with her family, cooking, and reading.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card,

 a signed copy of The Danger of Diamonds, 

and book-themed swag (including stickers, a bookmark, and a postcard).

The full tour schedule is linked below. 

The giveaway begins at midnight on October 17, 2022, 

and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 24, 2022. 

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. 

US only. 

Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

Green as Grass ~ Review

Green as Grass

Clean Regency Romances #2

By Mary-Celeste Ricks

Miss Louisa Grenfeld is the standard by which any well-informed lady strives to achieve. As a contemporary of Beau Brummell, she is well thought of and turns heads but is of no mind to marry anyone anytime soon. But when her father gives her an ultimatum, she has no choice but to make up her mind to find a match this season, for he refuses to fund another one.

She has caught the attention of Mr. Andrew Brougham, who is as green as can be and is more attuned to rare birds than fashion. Determined to turn his attention in another direction, Louisa begins tutoring Mr. Brougham in the social graces and soon succeeds in making him the gentleman to catch this season. 

But Louisa's success soon finds her longing for the almost daily visits she and Andrew once shared. But Louisa was more than firm in her lack of interest in Andrew as anything other than a friend, and he managed to ruin it. And then his mother - she has greater aspirations for him than an untitled lady. What's a gentleman to do when his heart is pulling him one way, and everyone else has other plans for him.

This is a fun read in which no one knows what they truly want, and, in the process, they all make a perfect muddle of everything - and by everything, I mean everything. Understandings and attachments are formed, but are they ones that will result in happiness for all involved, or will a life of misery be the unfortunate outcome of rash and ill-advised actions. This is a big mess that will take some interesting maneuvers to set to rights.

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:

Miss Louisa Grenfeld is a budding arbiter of London fashion, a protégé of the great Beau Brummell himself. But when her father informs her that the only way she can continue her lavish lifestyle is through marriage, she reluctantly begins her search for a husband.

She soon captures the interest of Mr. Andrew Brougham. But the awkward, bird-loving man is a social novice with an overbearing mother, and Louisa quickly determines to rid herself of both of them by tutoring Mr. Brougham into fashionable comportment, hoping he will turn his attentions toward other young ladies in the process.

Andrew Brougham may not understand fashion, but he certainly knows his own mind, and he has determined that Miss Louisa Grenfeld and he would suit perfectly together. But between his mother forcing him toward an unwanted match and Miss Grenfeld's uncertainty, he has a difficult path ahead. If he molds himself to conform to society's desires will that be enough to please both Miss Grenfeld and his exacting mother?

Healing Hazel ~ Review with Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Healing Hazel by Jennifer Moore, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Healing Hazel 

The Blue Orchid Society #3 

By Jennifer Moore 

Hazel Thornton has always wanted to be a nurse. Her mother's too short life has been her inspiration. But Hazel has a closely guarded secret that has prevented her from completing her training. As a child, she experienced the all too real horrors of war, and at the most inopportune moments, she is caught in the debilitating grips of a panic attack. 

After spending several years separated from her father, Hazel is finally going to be spending Christmas with him, but after traveling to see him, her hopes for a family Christmas are dashed as the war has pulled him away, and she is to return to England immediately. But all doesn't go according to plan when the train she is traveling on derails and severely injures her traveling companions, effectively trapping them at a Red Cross-run Spanish hospital. With more patients always expected, Hazel is begrudgingly given an opportunity to put her nursing skills to good use.

I loved this story; there are moments when all the medical skills available can't save a life, and one feels the pain that Hazel experiences. Then there is Doctor Jim Jackson, who seems to be against Hazel from the outset, but when we are given a glimpse into his innermost self, we understand why he is the way he is. Hazel and Jim are a good match, each having strengths that aid and help the other. But can the rapport that they have developed have a future as something more, or will Hazel need to return to England as her father directed her to? And does she really want to stay so near the almost daily fighting of war? 

This is the third book in The Blue Orchid Society series, and if you have not yet read the previous books, that will in no way impede your enjoyment and understanding of this book. I would highly recommend this book which is both lovely and moving.

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: Healing Hazel 

Series: The Blue Orchid Society #3 

Author: Jennifer Moore 

Publisher: Covenant Communications 

Release Date: September 8, 2022 

Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance / Historical / Victorian

Hazel Thornton has one great ambition: to help the sick and wounded as a nurse. But that dream can never become a reality. After a devastating childhood trauma, she has spent her life battling fits of panic that make it impossible to finish her studies. Everything changes, however, when a trip to Spain takes a perilous turn that derails her plans to visit her father for Christmas and immediately plunges her into the dangers of a brutal war.

With single-minded focus, she springs into action to help her fellow travelers. To ensure their continued care, she begins work at a Spanish hospital alongside Dr. Jim Jackson, a man whose only emotion seems to be wariness of his new assistant. Armed with gifts of support from each of her dearest friends, a group that dubs themselves the Blue Orchid Society, Hazel embarks on a journey of hope and healing to battle the demons of her past with the help of the doctor who has captured her heart.

PURCHASE LINKS:

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jennifer Moore lives with one husband and four sons who produce heaps of laundry and laughter. She earned a BA from the University of Utah in Linguistics, which she uses mostly for Jeopardy. A reader of history and romance, she loves traveling, tall ships, scented candles, and watching cake decorating videos. When she’s not driving carpool, writing, or helping with homework, she’ll usually be found playing tennis.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Healing Hazel,

 bookmark, blue orchid pin, themed stickers, 

and a $25 Amazon gift card!

The full tour schedule is linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight on September 20, 2022, and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 27, 2022. 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. 

US only. 

Gift card open internationally. 

Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

As Silent as the Night ~ Review

As Silent as the Night 

Strike to the Heart #1.5

by Danielle Grandinetti

I love this series of books and As Silent as the Night is the final book. Each book is a quick read as it isn't real long but there is just so much story within that one doesn't feel as if something is lacking.

As Silent as the Night focuses on Gio Vella who makes his home in Chicago. To help those who need his help Gio takes no sides in the unrest that grips the city. He makes deals with the devils that try to hold the city in their grasp to provide food for those who have little to nothing. But everything is about to change when the woman he doesn't love (if he keeps telling himself that maybe his heart will believe him) is taken.

Lucia Critelli has no one except her grandfather left and she is determined to make a St. Nicholas Day meal for him that is not much at least will be special. But standing in the food line she has attracted the unwanted attentions of an evil and vile man, and he has plans for her.

Making a daring rescue Gio must do all he can to keep Lucia safe. But why has Lucia attracted such attention? Until he can answer that question Lucia will never be safe and neither will his heart. And once again Gio finds himself in Eagle, Wisconsin, seeking to keep a young woman safe from the unknown threat that hunts her. But can he find love when he feels so unworthy of it? 

The book is definitely one to read if you enjoy historical fiction set in the era of speakeasys and prohibition, this is a clean read that is appropriate for teens and up. I highly recommend this for a weekend read or as a book club selection. 

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:

He can procure anything except his heart’s deepest wish. 
She might hold the key if she’s not discovered first.

Chicago, 1933―Lucia Critelli will do anything for her ailing grandfather, including stand in a breadline to have enough food to make him a St. Nicholas Day meal. When she catches the eye of a goon who threatens her grandfather, she discovers the end of Prohibition doesn’t mean the end of the mafia’s criminal activity.

Retired Marine Scout Giosue “Gio” Vella can find anything, especially if it helps a fellow Italian immigrant, so he has no doubt he can locate his neighbor’s granddaughter, who has gone missing from a local church. Keeping her safe is another matter. Especially when he chooses to hide out with his Marine buddy in Eagle, Wisconsin, the site of a barely-held truce among striking dairy farmers.

Will Christmas bring the miracle they all need or will Gio discover there are some things even he can’t find, particularly when he stumbles upon the most elusive gift of all: love.

Escape Route ~ Review with Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Escape Route by Tanya Stowe, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Escape Route 

By Tanya Stowe

When TJ Baskins stumbles upon tracks while flying for the border patrol, she didn't expect the agents she was helping to wind up dead. Worse, the killer saw her, and she now has a target on her back. When border patrol assigns an agent to "babysit" her, they couldn't have picked a worse agent, in her opinion - Trace Layton has earned her ire, and she's not about to let him forget it.

Trace made mistakes when he was a teen, and not standing up to his brother and his bully friend was one of the worst. He never meant for Tara Jean to get hurt, but she did, and she may never forgive him. But he is determined to keep her safe even if she's determined to bring the man responsible for everything to justice.

Escape Route is a standalone title that is a Love Inspired Suspense offering, so you are assured of clean-reading suspense. Now the suspense isn't over the top, but you are left with several scenes where you wonder if everyone will make it out alive. TJ is an interesting character - she has an obvious chip on her shoulder and has problems exhibiting forgiveness. The few scenes that include her mother make for an interesting contrast. There are some interesting family and personal dynamics in play when it comes to both TJ and Trace.

The past has decided to pay a visit, and it is seeking what it feels is its due - and the price is too high. Can they stop it before it extracts its price?

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Escape Route 

Author: Tanya Stowe 

Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense 

Release Date: August 23, 2022 

Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

 

Exposing a gang’s leader… 

                   is the only way out of danger

While flying above the Texas border, helicopter pilot Tara Jean “TJ” Baskins witnesses a brutal murder. Now a deadly arms-smuggling gang wants her out of the way. To stay alive, TJ must work with border patrol officer Trace Leyton—her old friend and the man who once betrayed her—to catch the ringleader. But when the search leads to Trace’s family, can TJ trust him to save her? 

  From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indie Bound | BookBub

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tanya Stowe is a Christian Fiction author with an unexpected edge. She is a Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author who fills her books with the unusual…mysteries and exotic travel, even a murder or two. No matter where Tanya takes you…on a train down a mountain or a suspenseful journey packed with danger…be prepared for the extraordinary.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Escape Route and $25 Amazon gift card. (2) additional winners will receive a print copy of Escape Route.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 29, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 5, 2022. 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 HERE

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

The Dreaming Beauty ~ Review with Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Dreaming Beauty by Anneka R. Walker, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

The Dreaming Beauty

An Enchanted Regency Romance

By Anneka R. Walker

Tansy White's life is cloaked in mystery - she's been raised by her three aunts since her mother's death nearly fifteen years ago. Any questions she's had about her parents have gone unanswered. She knows nothing about her father, even his name. And then there are her dreams - memories of the past and premonitions of the future. Her aunts claim the family is cursed and when her heart is broken by the man she thought loved her she just might agree with them. 

Marcus Taylor has been pursuing private research focusing on dreams. He has been haunted by nightmares for most of his life. He needs to understand so that he can free himself from the power they hold over him. For the past year, he has been managing the estate of his brother Simon, the Duke of Westmorland, while he's abroad in America. A most fortunate circumstance when he stumbles upon a young woman unconscious in the library. 

A late-night walk starts a friendship between Marcus and the ladies of Rose Cottage. Could there be something more than friendship and troubling dreams between Marcus and Tansy? All his life Marcus has been told Simon must marry first, but Tansy White could tempt him to put himself first. 

The Dreaming Beauty is a Regency retelling of Sleeping Beauty that is a lovely story. First, we have three aunts raising their orphaned niece. Second, we have a delightful cottage sort of hidden away in the woods. And in a nod to the Disney version, there is a nod to the pink dress. Or was it blue? 

There are references to the Masked Baron who had his own book. This book is a standalone title that does not need to have The Masked Baron read to enjoy this book. But The Masked Baron is a book you may want to pick up after reading this one (it's an enjoyable, easy read too). This is a lighthearted, easy read that has moments that will make you laugh and others that will exacerbate you. This is a clean read Regency romance that is an excellent introduction to Anneka R. Walker's work if you have not read her before.

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Dreaming Beauty 

Series: Standalone follow-up to The Masked Baron 

Author: Anneka R. Walker 

Publisher: Covenant Communications 

Release Date: July 11, 2022 

Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance / Historical / Regency / Fairy Tale 

Once upon a dream, two cursed people fell in love . . . 

 Tansy White doesn’t want to end up alone like her three aunts who raised her, but when she is betrayed by her would-be betrothed, she fears she might never change her fate. At her aunts’ suggestion, she seizes the chance to visit Rose Cottage, the country home of her late mother. For years, dreams of the cottage have haunted Tansy, and she is convinced it holds the answer to her hidden past. But after getting caught in a terrible storm, she meets a man who is just as determined as she is to learn all her secrets.

Marcus Taylor, brother to the Duke of Westmorland, is also troubled by vivid dreams. On a sleepless night, as a tempest rages outside his brother’s estate, he makes a discovery far more mysterious than any dream: a young woman, cold as ice, lies unconscious in the library, and he is sure she is the key to solving his problems. When she wakes, what begins as a shared quest for information turns into an unexpected friendship. As they piece together the fragments of their pasts, they discover a tangled web of lies, and their feelings for each other become just as entwined. But is their love as strong as their dreams . . . or their fate? 

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

ALSO AVAILABLE

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anneka Walker is an award-winning author raised by a librarian and an English teacher turned judge. After being fed a steady diet of books, she decided to learn about writing. The result was a bachelor's degree in English and history. When she isn't dreaming up a happy ending for a story, she is busy living her own with her husband and adorable children.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card, 

The Dreaming Beauty, signed bookplate, 

matching bookmark, stickers, and button!

The full tour schedule is linked below.

The giveaway begins at midnight on August 15, 2022, and will last 

through 11:59 PM EST on August 22, 2022. 

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. 

US only. 

Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

The giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Enflamed ~ Review

Enflamed

Knights of Brethren #5

By Jodi Hedlund

Sylvi Prestegard has always considered Espen as someone she could depend on to aid her, and if ever there was a time she needed his aid, it was now.  But Espen, like her brother Kristoffer, is on a quest for the king. To stop King Canute's Dark Warriors, the Holy Lamp must be located with all haste to prevent Norvegia from falling to Swaine.

But when Espen's entreaties on Sylvi's behalf are denied and met with scorn, Sylvi knows she must thwart the evil plans being made that will destroy her future and threaten Norvegia's throne. The only way that she can see to save the kingdom and her future is to wed Espen.

But Espen knows he will never be worthy of any noblewoman, much less, Sylvi, who has been groomed all her life, to use her beauty as a tool in her father's quest for greater worth and prestige. But he must save Sylvi, and Espen only hopes he can be strong enough to do what must be done to keep her protected until she is free from her father's threat.

Filled with all the adventure and daring of the previous books in the Knights of Brethren series, Enflamed will keep you reading until the very end. You won't want to put this one down, and it will keep you reading until the early hours of the morning. There are some unexpected twists as Espen and Sylvi's quest reveals a threat no one knew about - one that could spell the end of all of Norvegia's hopes to stop Swaine and the threat she and her king pose.

Enflamed could easily be read without first reading the first four books in the series but reading the books in order will make for a more satisfying reading experience. This is one series I highly recommend reading in order.

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.

Don't you just love this cover?

About the Book:

During a time when legends were born . . .

ENFLAMED

The most beautiful noblewoman in the kingdom, 

the lowly knight who can never have her, 

and the forbidden love they share.

When Sylvi Prestegard discovers that her father has arranged for her to marry a wealthy nobleman known for his thieving ways, she’s desperate to avoid the union. She turns to her childhood friend Espen, a Knight of Brethren, counting on his loyalty and kindness to help her escape.

Espen has been given an urgent mission to locate the holy lamp, an ancient relic necessary to defeat the enemy invading their country. In addition to his royal quest, he’s determined to protect Sylvi, the woman he’s always secretly loved. When she suggests the two of them marry to thwart her father’s plans, Espen cannot deny her request.

As they search for the holy lamp, Lord Prestegard pursues them, intent on reclaiming his daughter. With Espen’s life at stake, Sylvi must conspire to save them both. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles that stand between them, or are the flames of their forbidden love destined to be extinguished?

The real story of the Holy Lamp . . .