No Match for Love ~ Release Day Review

Today is the day that No Match for Love will be released, 

and I have the pleasure of sharing my thoughts about this book with you.

No Match For Love
By Karen Thornell

Lucas Berkeley has vowed to never marry for love. It's the only way to protect himself from the pain of losing someone dear to him. He knows that pain and since that has walled up his heart. Unfortunately, Lydia Faraway has unexpectedly and without effort gotten through his first layer of defense.

Lydia just wants the chance to live her life. After her parents' death when she was 5 she's been hidden away at isolated estate. But now at 23 her guardian has decreed that she will wed. Thrust into London society, Lydia finds herself at a loss, longing to leave the boredom of society behind. Though a cup of spilled punch proves unexpectedly advantageous when she meets Lord Berkeley.

This is lovely book as two people shaped by loss and pain navigate the expectations of both society and family. Mixed into the blend is an attempt to better the lives of those who are overworked and struggling to support their families on miserly pay. This book focuses mainly on the internal thoughts of Lydia and Lucas as they navigate their feelings for each other, their situations, and their day-to-day interactions with those around them. There are hints of potential romance, mystery, and danger that keep the book interesting and attention holding. Perfect reading for those who prefer their romance clean and sweet.

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:

Lucas Berkeley has a secret—one he cannot risk anyone discovering. After all, a future marquess belongs in drawing rooms, not underground boxing circles. Yet, with a painful past and a need to control every aspect of his life, it is his only outlet. And when his brother begins to court the one woman who could ruin everything, Lucas needs the secret diversion more than ever.

Lydia Faraday is exhausted from living a life in which she has no say. When her taciturn guardian drags her to London, intent on marrying her off, she determines to thwart his plans. If she is to have freedom in any aspect of her existence, it ought to be with whom she marries. And when a solicitor turns up with new information, she thinks that just might be possible. Or it may complicate her future further.

When Lucas and Lydia become entangled in a dangerous scheme, they cannot help but become closer, even as the obstacles between them grow. The last thing either is looking for is love. But their hearts have different plans.

About the Author:

Karen Thornell grew up reading when she should have been sleeping, but it wasn't until 2019 that she started writing. Tired of ending books and saying 'goodbye' to beloved characters, she wondered what it would be like to have her own characters that lived in her head always. It was probably a mark of sleep deprivation that she wanted people living in her head, but the idea was planted regardless.

Karen lives in Utah with her husband and kids. When not writing contemporary or regency romance, she spends her free time doing endless loads of laundry, playing board games, and, yes, talking to those characters in her head.

The Lady Glass ~ Review

The Lady Glass
An Enchanted Regency Romance #3
By Anneka R. Walker

Theresia Dvor lost everything on the day her father died. Everything except the priceless crystal vase her father left her in his will. But her step-mother has kept the vase from her while hiding her away in a boarding school for nearly a decade. With a bid for a life of her own Theresia determines to take back what is hers only to discover it has been sold. Not to be thwarted from her prized possession Theresia follows the vase to Ashbury Court and into a danger she never expected. 

When Theresia's plan to discover the whereabouts of her vase find her take an unexpected turn she finds herself reluctantly accepting help from Captain Rolland Reese. Rolland is a man who must stop a murderer from killing his father and Theresia's unexpected appearance and anonymity provide a chance to uncover the truth before it is too late. 

The Glass Lady is a Regency-era retelling of Cinderella and it is most delightfully spun into a unique tale that is identifiable as Cinderella but on a subtle barely there whisper. I loved all the layers that came together in this thoroughly satisfying read. Theresia is wholly new and refreshing wronged heroine who refuses to sit idly by while her life is stolen from her. Her isolation from society has left her with an innocence that leads her into situations she hasn't fully thought out beforehand. Fortunately Rolland, though scarred by all he experienced by his service, has a kindhearted nature and aids her how he can. 

This book is part of the author's Enchanted Regency Romance series but it can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone title. The book is well written, the characters engaging and the villain reveal is definitely well executed keeping it well hidden throughout the book. A definite addition to your TBR list, especially if you are a fan of Historical Romance or Regency Fiction.

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

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Theresia Dvorak has nothing left of her parents—nothing save her dowry, a priceless crystal vase stolen and sold by her own stepmother. Theresia will do anything to secure what is rightfully hers—even assume a false identity and steal her future back. When she gains entrance to a house party and has a memorable run-in with the handsome naval captain Rolland Reese, her mission is compromised. She swore never to trust an Englishman again, but when he makes a daring proposal she cannot refuse, she must work side by side with him if either of them is to achieve their aim.

Rolland is stunned when his homecoming from the war takes a decidedly deadly turn. The quickest solution is to throw a house party and invite all the suspects. With the stakes incredibly high, Rolland must root out the killer before they turn their sights to the next potential victim: his own father. The mysterious Theresia is undoubtedly the most suspicious of his guests, but against all odds, he finds himself risking everything to protect her. As Rolland unravels a tangle of clues, he faces the greatest threats of all: a heart of fire and a future as fragile as glass.

AUTHOR BIO

Anneka R. Walker is a best-selling author of historical and contemporary romance. With humor and an abundance of heart, she crafts uplifting stories you won't soon forget. She is the winner of the Swoony Award, the LDSPMA Praiseworthy Award, and various chapter contests. Her books have received praise from Publishers Weekly, Historical Novel Society, Midwest Book Review, and Readers Favorite. She graduated from Brigham Young University-Idaho with a bachelor’s degree in English and history and hopes to never stop learning. She is a blessed wife, proud mother of five, lover of Jesus, connoisseur of chocolate, and believer in happy endings.

Finding Jane Fairfax ~ Review

Finding Jane Fairfax
By Robbin J. Peterson

You know Jane Fairfax from Jane Austen's Emma. You know that Emma wasn't her biggest fan or even her bestie. But what was her story before she left the Campbells, before Miss Campbell became Mrs. Dixon. And how did she and Frank Churchill meet and form a secret attachment? Well, Finding Jane Fairfax will give a glimpse into the lives of two young people who were an important part of Highbury Society even when they didn't call it home.

This was an interesting read. Jane never felt she deserved the life she was living with the Campbells. The Campbells were a loving family who treated Jane as if she were part of their family. The problem was that Society didn't accept her or her situation. She knew that her only hope for the future lay in taking a position as a governess.

Frank felt unwanted and cast off by his father, as his Aunt and Uncle Churchill raised him. And by raising, he was under his aunt's disapproval almost constantly. His friends were too lowly; standing up for the defenseless was beneath him. In short, his aunt was raising him to be a kowtowed snob. And as for his future wife, his aunt would choose her and mold her into a replica of herself.  I didn't like Frank's Aunt Churchill in Emma but in Finding Jane Fairfax she is so much worse, making Lady Catherine de Bourgh seem positively docile. 

The characters were well-developed, as was the setting. I appreciated how aspects of Jane's letters to Highbury were worked into the story. Overall, this was a well-written and engaging book. And as anyone who is familiar with Emma knows how Frank and Jane's story ends, but this book ends before either of them returns to Highbury.

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

BOOK DESCRIPTION

 

Jane Fairfax knows she is truly fortunate. Most orphans face lives of hardship, whereas she was adopted by doting surrogate parents who elevated her place in Society and loved her as their own. Yet even they cannot shield her from the grim realities of life without a suitable marriage. In moments of despair, Jane comforts herself with a well-worn memory: that of a young man whose kind words when they were children once soothed her heartbreak. But now that boy has grown into a dashing gentleman―and their lives could not be more distant.

 

Frank Churchill is a prisoner of his station. His inheritance is held in the balance by his demanding aunt, and the weight of her expectations is suffocating him. But when a chance encounter brings the lovely Miss Fairfax back into his life, he discovers what it is to truly live. As the pair secretly become acquainted amid the confines of Society’s strict rules, their friendship blossoms into love. But in a world ruled by unyielding traditions, endeavoring to build a life together would mean inviting a scandal that would shake the very foundation of the ton.

 

AUTHOR BIO

Robbin J. Peterson is the author of Going Home, Conviction, and 13 Days of Girls Camp. She earned her degree in English literature from Utah State University and her associate of arts degree from Snow College. She has six kids, plays the viola, and works as an elementary school librarian.

 

Meriden Park ~ Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

Meriden Park by Julie Daines, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Meriden Park 

A Regency Romance

By Julie Daines 

Mary Grace has spent most of her life living with the Wellings. But other than the Wellings, she has never been wanted by anyone. Newly arrived in England from India, Mary Grace feels the full impact of her mixed heritage in the looks and attitudes of the people who surround her.

But when Mary Grace has a chance meeting with Mr. Robert Markham, her life takes an unexpected change. Someone sees her and doesn't judge her for being half-Indian. 

Robert Markham seeks justice for the poor people who call the area home. The poor workers of the lace mill are being murdered and losing their jobs to machines. With Robin Hood as an example, Robert spends his hours in Sherwood Forest seeking to bring the guilty down. 

But as the danger grows, Robert and Mary Grace find themselves pulled deeper into the mystery that fills the green forest. And there is something between them that could be something more, but secrets stand between them - secrets that could destroy everything if they become known. 

Meriden Park is a delightful mix of Regency with Robin Hood, Mystery, and Suspense. I love how the story unfolds, forcing the truth to be revealed. Robert and Mary Grace have similarities in how they see their worth. Both have been disappointed by people in their lives. Both try to hide what they feel are weaknesses/faults from others; Mary's are more visible than Robert's. There are some interesting twists as the story unfolds; some are more unexpected than others. This is a definite must-read, in my opinion. This book also comes in an audio format that is well presented, so whether you read your book or listen to it, there is no reason not to enjoy it.

I was provided a digital copy of this book with no exception, but that I provide my honest opinion, all thoughts expressed are my own.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Meriden Park 

Author: Julie Daines 

Publisher: Covenant Communications 

Release Date: December 5, 2022 

Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance/Historical/Regency/Suspense

Following her childhood rescue from the gutters of Calcutta, Mary Grace’s life has been an astonishing rags-to-riches tale. The Wellings raised the half-Indian orphan with all the love and care the childless couple possessed, allowing her to grow into a beautiful and refined woman. But upon Mr. Welling’s death, it is time for Mrs. Welling to take Mary home to England―home to Meriden Park.

Despite her genial nature, Mary is received with suspicion by the villagers. For his part, however, Mr. Robert Markham is intrigued by the curious new beauty in town. Determined to make her acquaintance, he offers Mary a bargain she can’t refuse: a hot cross bun for a kiss. That seemingly innocent exchange is the first of many encounters between Robert and Mary, whose friendship blossoms into love during long walks in the privacy of Sherwood Forest. But the shadows of the forest hide a sinister secret, one Mary fears Robert might be a part of. As the mystery of the recent string of murders creeps closer and closer, Robert and Mary are drawn into a dangerous game, and unless she can unearth the truth, the couple risks losing one another forever.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julie Daines is an award-winning and best-selling author. She was born in Concord, Massachusetts, and was raised in Utah. She spent eighteen months living in London, where she studied and fell in love with English literature, sticky toffee pudding, and the mysterious guy who ran the kebab store around the corner.

She loves reading, writing, and watching movies—anything that transports her to another world. She picks Captain Wentworth over Mr. Darcy, firmly believes in second breakfast, and never leaves home without her vervain.

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

---

TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of the book, 

$25 Amazon gift card, 

bookmark, stickers, and a button.

The full tour schedule is linked below. 

The giveaway begins at midnight on December 5, 2022, and 

will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 12, 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

---

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

 

The Danger with Diamonds ~ Book Review

My Thoughts:

Eighty years ago, the Lang family lost everything to the Nazis when Austria came under their control. The three Lang children managed to survive the violence that came to their home, but it forever separated them in a world being torn apart by war.

Fast forward to today, someone is determined to keep the truth hidden and prevent the Lang children from claiming what is theirs by birth. And if necessary, murder is an option that could be employed to silence them forever. And these heirs have no idea of the danger they are in, but when they come together, they are able to thwart their longtime enemy and recover not only their ancestrial home but the treasures it hid. 

But now the treasures of Falcon Point have been stolen - were they the target of the bank robbery? Or were they a bonus stolen along with the diamonds, Cole Bridger secured there after a CIA operation?  Whatever the reason, Lars and Cole aren't about to lose the legacy that they had only recently recovered. But time and an enemy are working against them.

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:

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.

The Questmaster's Trap ~ Review

The Questmaster's Trap

Champion's Quest #2

By Frank L. Cole

The second book in the Champion's Quest takes the reader on a journey fraught with danger. When Lucas, Miles, and Jasmine answer a summons from Hob, they are expecting to enter their next quest. But rather, they find that not everything is as to seems and have unwittingly walked into a trap that could destroy everything.

But to survive, the Wild Crows need to up their skill level fast and replace a missing player. Because if they can't, they may fail, and failure isn't an option, not with the fate of everything and everyone depending on them.

This is a fast-paced, action-filled book that will grab the attention of pre-teen readers. The gaming world setting is a draw that will pull them into the story. But winning isn't the sole focus as the Wild Crows will need to work together and trust one another if they hope to succeed. Going it alone sometimes isn't enough, and sometimes teamwork is what is necessary to see a problem from all sides while coming up with a solution that has the best chance of success.

While our heroes are battling a range of mythological creatures, there is nothing over-the-top in regard to violence. There is no graphic anything or no offending language. This is just good clean reading with a sci-fi/fantasy adventure with a few twists and turns. 

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

About the Book:

Hello, Brave Reader: You’re just in time to roll the Die of Destiny and play a game of Champion’s quest. The wizard Questmaster Hob has summoned the Wild Crows on a new adventure. But not everything is what it seems.

A new, sinister Questmaster creates chaos for Lucas, Miles, and Jasmine. They are ill-prepared to fight stronger, challenging monsters, including an evil centaur who has taken a magical ally hostage. As the Wild Crows journey to rescue her, they encounter shadow elves, troltusses, and giants. They also learn new skills and strategies, and discover their quest is more than just a game this time. The fate of the world of Champion’s Quest—including the lives of the wizards Hob and Bogie—hangs in the balance.

Can the Wild Crows prevail? Will the luck of the dice be in their favor? Can they gather the right magical items and overcome their weaknesses? It will take true champions and a bit of luck to win this gripping, fantastical, high-stakes adventure.

To Capture His Heart ~ Review

To Capture His Heart

Matchmakers #2

By Nancy Campbell Allen

When Nathan Winston finds himself having to attend a house party that his mother is holding, he is determined to avoid her matchmaking schemes. His only hope is pretending to court a young woman whom his mother doesn't know. Unfortunately, Eva Caldwell's reputation as a female photographer has made her known to his mother and secured her an invitation to be an official photographer for the event.

Eva Caldwell has enjoyed her time spent with Detective Nathan Winston, even when it means documenting crime scenes, an occupation that is frowned upon by most of society. And Nathan's request for Eva to play a role at his mother's 10-day-long-house party is a bit of a surprise. But allowing everyone to believe that Nathan is courting her won't hurt anyone except her own heart, right?

But the event is soon threatened when a criminal decides to threaten Nathan and follow him to the family's estate. Soon the fun and games take a dangerous turn, and Eva and Nathan are trying to find a criminal mastermind who is seeking revenge and could be anywhere. As the man, out to destroy Nathan's life and those he holds dearest, draws closer and bolder, Nathan has to up his vigilance to stop what is coming.

To Capture His Heart is a delightful Victorian Mystery. This is the second book in the Matchmakers series and can be read as a standalone if you haven't yet read The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart. But after reading this book, you will want to read book one! I loved the characters and when Eva puts one of the entitled heiresses in her place with skilled verbiage. Oh, yeah, Eva is a force to be reckoned with!

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

About the Book:

Seaside, England, 1886

Eva Caldwell is an accomplished and well-known photographer who often works with the local constabulary to assist in documenting crime scenes, which means she also often works alongside the handsome and charming detective Nathan Winston. She appreciates his intellect and how he treats her like an equal, but Eva’s heart is still healing from a past relationship, so, for now, she decides to keep her feelings for Nathan a secret.

One evening, Nathan arrives on her doorstep asking for a personal favor. Would Eva be available to photograph his mother’s legendary, week-long dinner party and matchmaking event? The catch is that Eva would also have to pretend they are courting in order for Nathan to avoid the many single women seeking his attention.

Though wary of the charade, Eva agrees. Spending a week with the two things she loves most—her detective and her camera—sounds simple enough. And if she wants to imagine that Nathan’s pretend courtship of her is real, well, what’s the harm in that?

But when a criminal from Nathan’s past threatens revenge on the detective, Nathan must be extra vigilant to keep his mother and the rest of the partygoers safe. He confides in Eva, and as the two work together to solve the mystery and apprehend the criminal, they find that they might capture more than they expected—each other’s heart.

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

---

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.

---

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

---

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