A Foreign Crown ~ Review with Giveaway

A Foreign Crown

Royal Regency Romance #1
By Jen Geigle Johnson

The Oldenburg nation has tried to remain neutral in the conflict between George III's Britain and Napoleon's France. But French privateers are using Oldenburg's policies against her - robbing and plundering her ships while presenting different colors while in port. As the youngest of the King's eight sons, Prince Layton Wilhelm has seen first-hand the French's subterfuge and he has had enough. Seeking to promote an alliance with the British, Layton never expected to be tasked with the duty of brokering such feat. To his surprise and discomfort, Layton finds himself setting sail for Britain and King George's court.

Lady Aribella Bardsley knows her duty to the Crown, to the Queen, and to her family. When she receives Queen Charlotte's summons to join her entourage of ladies-in-waiting, Aribella's only hesitation is leaving her father behind. But she has been preparing for this role for most of her life and she is about to step into her late mother's position of most-trusted confidant.  But little can prepare one for the political machinations within the royal residence. Aribella's loyalties are about to be tested as she accepts the honor bestowed on her and her family. 

Layton finds himself having to navigate the complexities of Britain's Royal family - not an easy task when you don't know all the rules and customs of the land.

When Layton and Aribella's paths cross while en route to St. James they form a connection - one that seems doomed due to their duties and loyalties. But Aribella's very duties to the Queen make her the perfect go-between to help Layton gain an understanding of the political dangers. Layton finds himself somewhat adrift navigating the complexities of Britain's Royal family - not an easy task when you don't know all the rules and customs of the land.

In Layton, the Queen sees a potential match for one of her daughters. Is Layton willing to commit to a royal alliance to obtain the naval assistance that Oldenburg seeks? And what of his growing feelings for the lovely lady-in-waiting Aribella? Layton, like Aribella, is torn between duty and feelings of the heart.

A Foreign Crown is set in 1810, and here we are introduced to the English court of King George III. The King is unwell, having suffered from his malady for some time. His eldest son Prince George is considered inadequate in regard to ruling the country given his wastrel ways. Queen Charlotte, who possesses the intellectual faculties to rule is stymied by the laws of the land. It is into this world that Layton and Aribella find themselves. Each interaction brings them closer not only to one another but also to leaving duty behind. Forgetting their duties could cost them everything. 

I really enjoyed getting a glimpse into the court of King George III. I found it interesting how Queen Charlotte seemed to be so aware of the political workings and yet none of her children (at least those we get to know) seem to show any inclination to familiarize themselves with it. Overall I would recommend this book to fans of historical fiction, Regency fiction, gentle reads, and clean romance. If you like all four this is perfect for you as it offers them in a well-balanced blend that will delight and entertain. Those new to Jen Geigle Johnson's work will appreciate starting with this book as it is the first in the Royal Regency Romance series. If you have previously read the author's work you will not be disappointed. At more than 200 pages you won't feel as if you are left wanting or that the book resolved itself too quickly. This is a perfect length for an enjoyable weekend read.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations other than I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

Following a devastating series of misfortunes, Lady Aribella Bardsley has bravely shouldered

the responsibilities of her household. But just as the bleakness of her situation threatens to

overwhelm her, a summons arrives from the Queen with a providential offer: Aribella’s presence

is requested as a lady-in-waiting at the palace.

Prince Layton Wilhelm’s family has clung to their neutrality in the war for far too long. As the
youngest of the King of Oldenburg’s eight sons, Layton is determined to prove his worth and

is unwilling to turn a blind eye to Napoleon’s encroaching privateers. When Layton embarks

on a journey to England, it is for one purpose: to petition the British navy for aid. But when he

becomes acquainted with the lovely Lady Aribella, he cannot deny their powerful connection.

Amid the intrigues and schemes within the walls of the palace, Layton and Aribella know a future

together is impossible—but torn between loyalty and love, will they risk everything to follow their

hearts?

About the Author:

JEN GEIGLE JOHNSON has written 

The Nobleman's DaughterScarlet, A Lady's Maid, Tabitha's Folly, Charmed by His Lordship,  Dating the Duke, Back to His Lordship, Christmas Courting, Yuletide Regency, His Lady in Hiding, A Foreign Crown, and Widows of Somerset.

 Meet her online at https://jengeiglejohnson.com/

Twitter https://twitter.com/@athorjen

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJenGeigleJohnson/

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Accidental Target ~ Review with Giveaway

Accidental Target
By Theresa Hall

It was just supposed to be a weekend get-together with her sister's family - a chance to meet her newest niece. Now she'll be lucky to live to see another day. Allison Moore has a life she is satisfied with - a good job and a place to call her own. But when she is involved with an icy road accident rendering assistance could cost her her life.

Sergeant Jackson Archer is first on the scene of a car going off the road into a fence. The victim claims that she is the victim of attempted murder. When evidence seems to maybe collaborate her story Jackson needs to dig deeper into her story. Soon everywhere Allison goes someone seems intent on killing her. 

If Jackson can't keep her safe her good samaritan story won't have a happy ending. Worse spending time with Allison is bringing up memories of his own loss - the vehicular death of his family five years ago. 

As the killer continually tracks them down - suspicion takes root that there maybe someone on the inside betraying them. With no one to trust Jackson may have to turn to the one person he blames for his loss - God. There is one thing he knows with certainty he can't do it alone much longer.

Theresa Hall's Accidental Target will keep you engaged as Allison's weekend away turns into a fight to survive. Allison and Jackson both have a lot that they are carrying around and this brush with losing their lives makes both reconsider just how they have been living. Allison is living with a crushed dream and a betrayal of the heart. Jackson is living with a reminder of his lost future and what could have been. Both have a time of growth and a meeting of hearts - which occurs quickly over a few days, this is, after all, a standalone book. Now as to whether they have a happy ending you will have to read the book. This was an enjoyable read that satisfied a weekend reading need. I would recommend this for those who what clean-reading suspense that is not filled with graphic descriptions. I also look forward to future offerings from the author. At just over 200 pages I found this to be a good weekend length to enjoy - I will admit I stayed up late as I wanted to know how it all turned out. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own honest opinions.

About the Book:

On an icy road 

in the dead of night

what she sees might get her killed.

Allison Moore can’t deny what she sees—a lifeless hand sticking out of a tarp in the back of a crashed pickup truck. Seconds later, she’s on the run with a murderer on her heels. Nowhere is safe and no one can be trusted…except for police sergeant Jackson Archer. But with someone set on silencing her, can Jackson keep his promise of protection?

About the Author:

Theresa Hall is an award-winning author of Christian fiction whose stories include military, law enforcement, and first responder heroes. As a native Texan, she loves to write suspenseful stories that happen in small Texas towns with old fashioned Southern values. She’s also a first-grade teacher who loves to cook, read good suspense, and binge-watch episodes of Dateline and Discovery ID. She is a member of RWA (Romance Writers of America) and ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). She actively promotes fellow Christian Fiction authors on her blog and can be found online at http://https//www.theresalynnhall.com/

Be sure to check out All the tour stops by clicking here.

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At Loves Command ~ Review

At Love's Command
Hanger's Horsemen #1
By Karen Witemeyer

Matthew Hanger and his men are ex-cavalry and they have survived the horrors of war. Together they are known as Hanger's Horsemen and they hire themselves out to help the innocent when Texas's lawless run rampant. They have been hired to stop rustlers who are causing no end of grief in Purgatory Springs. But when one of his men takes a bullet Matthew knows help must be swiftly procured.

Fortunately for Hanger's Horsemen, Purgatory has Dr. Joe practicing. What Matthew didn't expect was Dr. Joe to be a beautiful, stubborn woman. But Dr. Josephine Burkett is more than competent in her work at saving Wallace's life. And he never expected anyone to touch his heart the way Josephine Burkett has done.

The rustlers that the Horsemen have been hired to stop, aren't about stop anytime soon. Worse they seem intent on taking down the Burkett family. Josephine's brother Charlie is taken by the rustlers and a ransom is demanded of their father. Josephine turns to Matt and his men to help her bring her brother home. When their rescue goes wrong, Matthew is left with a decision that he never thought he'd be in - one that finds his head and heart at odds with one another.

At Love's Command is the first book in a new series by Karen Witemeyer. This book is a historical romance and is set in 1890s Texas. The writing is excellent as the characters have several facets that make them more than mere words upon the page. The pacing is good, no lagging so interest never wavers. There is a little violence but overall I would say that this is a gentle, clean read. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and wouldn't mind making a return trip to visit with them again in the future.

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's fought through ruthless outlaws and injury.

But with her, he's tempted to surrender.

Haunted by the horrors of war, ex-cavalry officer Matthew Hanger leads a band of mercenaries known as Hanger's Horsemen who have become legends in 1890s Texas. They defend the innocent and obtain justice for the oppressed. But when a rustler's bullet leaves one of them at death's door, they're the ones in need of saving.

Dr. Josephine Burkett is used to men taking one look at her skirts and discounting her medical skills. What she's not used to is having a man change his mind in a heartbeat and offer to assist her in surgery. Matthew Hanger's dedication to his friend during recovery earns Josephine's respect, and when she hears of her brother's abduction, he becomes her only hope for rescue.

Matt has stared down ruthless outlaws, betrayal, and injury, but when a bossy lady doctor crawls under his skin, his heart is tempted to surrender. And when she is caught in the crossfire, he may have to sacrifice everything--even his team--to save her.

Pinto ~ Review with Spotlight and Giveaway

 Pinto!

 By M.J. Evans

 Pinto wants to do something with his life - something important. When George Beck purchases him in 1912 he is about to get just such a chance. A 20 thousand mile trip across the United States of America with a visit to all 48 state capitals what better way to make history?

 But declaring their intentions was the easy part of this journey. With mountains to cross, and rivers to forge it will take determination and a whole lot of heart to go from start to finish. Pinto is the story of this true event. An event that took just over 3 years to complete.

 Pinto is told from the perspective of Pinto, a young Morab (Morgan/Arabian cross), who was the only horse to complete the entire journey.  The "Overland Westerners" set a date of June 1, 1915, in which to arrive in San Francisco and bring their epic trek to its conclusion.

 Pinto is an interesting look back at the US when the world was vastly different from what we know today. Social media was non-existent at this time - spreading the news of this once-in-a-lifetime undertaking was all word of mouth and getting newspaper coverage at their various stops. It wasn't easy and the Overland Westerners had to work to obtain the funds they needed to provide their day-to-day needs. Sometimes the kindness of a stranger helped them along their way. 

 Though it is written for a younger audience others will enjoy this book as well. Readers of American History and fans of a good horse story will enjoy this newly revealed historical gem. I have to admit the description intrigued me but the cover sold me on this book and I was not disappointed. We have an old book that has been in the family for years titled The Mountain Pony and The Pinto Colt and Pinto, though very different, reminded me of this book published in 1947. There are moments where defeat seems the likely victor but these Overland Westerners are not about to give up while they can still draw breath. Will their dream become reality? Only time will tell...

 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.

Book Details:

Book Title:  PINTO! Based Upon the True Story of the Longest Horseback Ride in History 

Author:  M.J. Evans

Category:  Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12),  243 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

Publisher:  Dancing Horse Press

Release date:   October, 2019

Content Rating:  G. This book is taken from the actual journals that were kept by the men on the journey. There is no bad language or explicit scenes.

Book Description:

In 1912, four men, calling themselves the “Overland Westerners,” decided fame and fortune awaited if they embarked on the longest horseback ride in history. Their goal was to visit all forty-eight state capitals over the course of three years and complete their journey at the San Francisco World’s Fair on June 1, 1915. Facing rugged roads, raging rivers, thieves and near starvation, the men went through seventeen horses. Only one horse completed the entire journey…Pinto, a little horse with a heart as big as the whole country! This is Pinto’s account of his arduous adventure.

Buy the Book:
Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Books-A-Million
Book Depository ~ IndieBound

Also from the Author:

About the Book:

Book Title:  In the Heart of a Mustang 
Author: M.J. Evans
Category: YA Fiction (Ages 13-17), 359 pages
Genre: Contemporary Coming of Age
Publisher: Dancing Horse Press
Release date: October, 2017
Content Rating: PG. Some suggested violence but not explicit

Book Description:

A boy is told that his father was a brave and virtuous man, a soldier who traded his life to save the lives of countless others. He was the man that Hunter needed to emulate. The only problem is the whole story is a lie, all of it. The truth, which Hunter discovers as he begins his sophomore year of high school, is that his father has actually spent the boy’s entire life in jail, paying his debt to society, but not mending his ways. A wild mustang mare, is rounded up by the BLM. The spring rains had been sparse, the forage on the plains even more so. The mare and her herd are rescued from certain starvation and placed for adoption. In a sandy corral at Promise Ranch, a home for troubled teenage boys, the boy and the mare meet. A weathered, old cowboy brings them together – a mentor for one, a trainer for the other. The bond that forms between boy and horse becomes one that saves the lives of both.

Buy the Book:
Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Books-A-Million
Book Depository ~ IndieBound
Add to Goodreads

Meet the Author:

Award-winning author M.J. Evans grew up in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Upon graduation from Oregon State University, she spent five years teaching high school and middle school students. She retired from teaching to raise her five children. Mrs. Evans is a life-long equestrian and enjoys competing in Dressage and riding in the beautiful Colorado mountains. She has published fourteen books, most of which are fiction.

Connect with the author:  

Website ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook  ~ Pinterest  ~  Instagram ~ Goodreads

Tour Schedule:

July 27 – Rockin' Book Reviews – book review of PINTO! / guest post / giveaway
July 27 - Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
July 27 -My Journey Back – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / guest post / giveaway
July 28 – Splashes of Joy – book review of PINTO! / author interview / giveaway
July 28 - She Just Loves Books – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
July 29 –Svetlanas reads and views – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
July 29 - Adventurous Bookworm – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
July 29 - Krisha's Cozy Corner - book review of PINTO! / author interview / giveaway
July 30 –Splashes of Joy – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / guest post / giveaway
July 30 -My Reading Journeys – book review of PINTO! / author interview / giveaway
July 31 – Literary Flits – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
July 31 - T's Stuff - book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 3 - T's Stuff - book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / author interview / giveaway
Aug 3 - My Journey Back – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 4 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 4 - She Just Loves Books – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 5 – A Mama's Corner of the World – book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 5 – Rockin' Book Reviews – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 5 - Adventurous Bookworm – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 5 - My Reading Journeys – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 6 – A Mama's Corner of the World – book review of In the Heart of a Mustang / giveaway
Aug 6 - Blooming with Books - book review of PINTO! / giveaway
Aug 7 - Svetlanas reads and views – book review of PINTO! / giveaway

Enter the Giveaway:

Win 1 of 5 print copies of PINTO! 

or 

1 of 5 copies of

 HEART OF A MUSTANG! 

(USA only) 

(10 winners)

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Vying for the Viscount ~ Review

Vying for the Viscount
Hearts on the Heath #1
By Kristi Ann Hunter

Bianca Snowley loves horses, a most unbecoming past time for the daughter of a gentleman, especially one that is expected to marry well. But Bianca isn't like other young ladies in Newmarket and marriage is going to be on her terms. At least that was her plan until for stepmother set her sights on her. What's worse her stepmother seems determined to marry Bianca off to the worst possible man.

Hawksworth is Hudson's destiny. His whole life has been in preparation of assuming the title Viscount Stildon. Following the death of a grandfather he never met, Hudson finds himself as out of place in England as he was in India. The instructions he thought of as preparing him for life among the aristocracy are sorely lacking. But admitting his lack will just open him up to ridicule and scorn among those who are now his peers. With help scarce, he turns to the only person he can trust - his next-door neighbor - Miss Bianca Snowley.

Desperate to thwart her stepmother's plans Bianca agrees to Lord Stildon's plan in exchange for his help in helping her secure a future of her own choosing. Soon the most unlikely friendship forms -one that could be the undoing of all their plans. But sometimes the plans we make aren't the ones that are best for us. But can Bianca and Hudson discover what it is they truly want before they set themselves on a course of unhappiness?

Vying for the Viscount is the first book in Kristi Ann Hunter's Hearts on the Heath - a series that may have a character or two from the author's previous series (I'm not saying more as that would ruin the surprise). I like Bianca and Hudson but I really enjoyed getting to know Aaron Whitworth who is the stable manager for Hawksworth and is both frank and insightful as the situation requires. I look forward to additions to this series as this was an excellent offering from the author that is not to be missed.

Fans of Regency-era historical fiction will enjoy this clean-read offering. Those who have read Kristi Ann Hunter in the past will not be disappointed and those new to her work will be delighted. This would make an excellent book club selection. 

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:
For Hudson, the newly titled Viscount Stildon, moving to England from India where he was born and raised was already an arduous enough endeavor. When he learns the fate of the racing empire he inherited along with his title depends upon him getting in the good graces of another stable owner, he's even more at a loss.

The stable at the neighboring estate has been Miss Bianca Snowley's refuge for years, and when a strange man appears to be stealing the horses, she jumps to their protection without a second thought. Upon learning Hudson is actually the new owner, she can't help but be intrigued by the area's newest eligible bachelor.

Any thought of romance is quickly set aside, however, when Hudson proposes they work together to secure suitable spouses for each other. As their friendship grows, Hudson and Bianca begin to reconsider what they truly want in life. But will societal expectations and the weight of their responsibilities keep them from pursuing their true desires?

About the Author:

Kristi is the award-winning author of Regency romance novels from a Christian worldview. Her books include the Hawthorne House series, the Haven Manor series, and the recently published first stories of the Hearts on the Heath series. Beyond writing, she is also speaker, teaching classes in writing as well as Biblical and spiritual topics. She has spoken to writers' groups, schools, and young women's groups at churches. 

​

When she is not writing or interacting with her readers, Kristi spends time with her family and her church. A graduate of Georgia Tech with a computer science degree, she can also be found fiddling with her computer in her free time. A born lover of stories she is also an avid reader. From very young she dreamed of sharing her own stories with others and praises God daily that she gets to live that dream today. 

Learn more about Vying for the Viscount

Tracking a Kidnapper ~ Review

Tracking a Kidnapper
True Blue K-9 Unit: Brooklyn
By Valerie Hansen

Right place, right time puts Officer Vivienne Armstrong in the perfect position to stop a kidnapping. While exercising her K-9 partner Hank, Vivienne all but stumbles onto a kidnapping. She and Hank set off in pursuit and manage to recover the young boy. But someone has decided that Vivienne needs to be eliminated and they are targeting her no matter where she goes.

FBI Agent Caleb Black has been called in to profile a killer for the Brooklyn PD and is asked to assist with Vivienne's case. He takes his job seriously and is determined to keep Vivienne safe. There is just one problem Vivienne reminds him of his late wife and this case is hitting too close to home.

As Caleb and Vivienne work to identify the kidnapper they have to deal with their growing attraction and deal with the other's take-charge attitude. Can they trust God to be in control Tof their lives and this case?

Tracking a Kidnapper is a clean read romantic suspense that delves into a spouse's survivor's guilt, kidnapping, and stalking. There are no graphic scenes so this book won't give you nightmares or unpleasant mental images. Overall this was a good read and several hours away from one's normal life experiences. So if you have a weekend that you want to spend in Brooklyn while enjoying the comforts of your favorite chair look no further. I have to admit the dog on the cover was all the motivation I needed to check out this book. I admit it the cover drew me in before I had even read the description. But I have no regrets for the time spent and it was a pleasant diversion to the news of the day (just saying).

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

About the Book:

Foiling a criminal’s plans makes an officer and her K-9 partner targets.

Thwarting a kidnapping has thrust Officer Vivienne Armstrong and her K-9 partner, Hank, right into the culprit’s crosshairs. Now, even with danger stalking them at every turn, Vivienne refuses to stop working, but FBI agent Caleb Black intends to do his job and safeguard her. Together, can they stop the would-be kidnapper from striking a final, fatal blow?

Explosive Situation ~ Review

Explosive Situation
True Blue K-9 Unit: Brooklyn
By Terri Reed

Detective Henry Roarke has been stuck in the office since he was falsely accused of using excessive force. Now with a new IA officer on the case, Henry is starting to feel the stress. He needs to be out on the street doing his job with his partner Cody. But until he is cleared of all charges he is stuck filing and training with the other K-9 officers.

Adding to Henry's stress is his little sister Riley. For the last 6 years, he and Riley have been it and she is eager to get out from under his protective wings. When a bombing threat is sent to Henry's phone he knows he has to act fast as Riley is in the vicinity of the threat location. IA officer Lieutenant Olivia Vance is more than a little annoyed when Detective Roarke leaves in the middle of her questioning. When Henry on restricted duties she feels compelled to go along with him to ensure that he follows protocol and finds his sister in time.

Olivia is good at her job but the animosity Internal Affairs officers face is not one of its perks. She's determined to get to the truth about the night in question. Henry seems on the up-and-up but there are no witnesses to verify either version of events. She needs to get a feed of how he works and whether he is as good as his fellow officers' claim.

Explosive Situation finds Henry and those close to him being targetted - does it have anything to do with the potential charges against Henry or is it something else? Only time will tell as Henry works to keep those close safe and to keep his heart unentangled, which is becoming harder to do the more he gets to know Olivia Vance.

This is yet another good read from the True Blue K-9 Unit series. This book follows the Brooklyn Unit but some of the officers that were in the original True Blue K-9 Unit series are well represented in this series. And come on everyone loves a good dog story and this one has dogs aplenty. Want to get away from your everyday routine? This is an excellent way to spend a few hours unwinding from your ordinary.

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:

With his K-9 partner at his side,

can he survive false accusations and a bomber?

Detective Henry Roarke’s determined to prove his innocence to internal affairs officer Olivia Vance—but first he must survive the bomber targeting him and his bomb-sniffing K-9, Cody. With a coming baby to protect and an investigation to pursue, Olivia has her hands full…until she becomes a target, as well. Can they catch the bomber before they all lose their lives?