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

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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.

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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

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

 

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?

Targeted ~ Review

 

Targeted by Lynette Eason, Lynn H. Blackburn,     and Natalie Walters Targeted is the perfect weekend read (or 3 weekend reads). When you put three equally good novellas in one book, you can't go wrong.  In On the Run, Daria Nevsky's past has caught up to her. Or rather her late father's criminal past has caught up to her, and it could cost her her life. But Daria isn't about to ask anyone for help. Unfortunately for her, Dr. Ryker Donahue insists on helping her. But maybe that isn't such a bad thing when things go wrong. ------ Anyone who has read Lynn H. Blackburn's Defend and Protect series will love that Secret Service Agent Gil Dixon's sister Emily gets her turn as the main character. And On the Run finds Emily exactly where she doesn't want to be - smack-dab in the middle of a dangerous situation. And worse, to get through everything alive, she's about to leave her comfy indoor living behind to help her teenage patient and Secret Service Agent Liam Harper, who she is not interested in, no really, she's not.     ------ And the final story of this book, Caught in the Crosshairs, finds CIA officer Claudia Gallegos caught in a big international situation when she walks into a murder situation in which she manages to be the number one initial suspect. And when she is less than helpful to the former Army officer charged with investigating her role in everything, she finds herself in even more trouble. Could Ari Blackman actually be her greatest ally as things go from bad to worse? She's about to find out, but she's not going to make it easy for him. I really enjoyed all three of these novellas, which are up to the standards one would expect from these three authors. The suspense is felt throughout each story. So if you, like me, enjoy well-written romantic suspense that isn't overly graphic anything you will want to read these stories. This is also a great way to introduce one's self to a new author if you are unfamiliar with any or all of these authors.  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: Get ready for triple the excitement, intrigue, and romance with three heart-stopping stories from your favorite romantic suspense authors! In On the Run, Lynette Eason introduces you to IT Specialist Daria Nevsky, a highly skilled FBI agent with the ability to hack any computer. She must go on the run to find out who wants her dead--and Dr. Ryker Donahue refuses to let her do it alone. In Deadly Objective, Lynn H. Blackburn throws physical therapist Emily Dixon and Secret Service Agent Liam Harper into an impossible situation. They don't know why the vice president's son seems to be in the crosshairs of a killer, but they'll sacrifice anything to keep him safe. In Caught in the Crosshairs, Natalie Walters pits former Army PSYOPS officer Ari Blackman against his colleague, CIA officer Claudia Gallegos, when Claudia is implicated in the murder of a Saudi prince. Can he prevent a coup that would put America at risk?

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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Sundown ~ Review

Sundown

Sky King Ranch #3

By Susan May Warren

Colt is hurting. His recovery from the beating is taking much longer than he'd like, but he's a Kingston and former military. But when he gets the chance to be a hero, he's not about to turn down the opportunity.  

Taylor "Tae" Price is either the world's biggest liar or a woman with some serious trouble following her. And with what she claims, Colt would rather she be a liar, but he wants to believe her. 

Tae is running from the people who want her dead, or maybe they just want her in their custody. She's not really sure - all she knows is they have the power to bring the world to an end. 

Yup, Colt and the Kingston clan have just landed themselves into a whole mess of trouble. And the bad guys mean business, and they won't be stopped. But the Kingston brothers being who they are, won't let that get in their way. But this time, they just might not be able to walk away.

This book continues the thread that has run throughout the series (Sunrise and Sunburst), adding to the mysterious goings-on that has plagued the rural Alaskan region that the Kingston's call home. A Russian threat, an attack in Africa, a mysterious plague it all comes together in an action-packed romantic conclusion. 

This is the concluding book in the series, and I think the series was perfectly named as it takes the reader through the day with the individual titles. The Kingston boys have finally all come home, but they are not yet fully healed, and this book takes us further into their journey. But this journey has been a long time coming and, in Colt's case, more than a decade. But how do you heal from a broken heart while you are trying to save the world? Well, you're just going to have to find out for yourself. And this is one series that reading all the books in order is a must!

I was provided a copy of the book with no expectations all thoughts are my own. 

About the Book:

He doesn’t trust her . . . but he can’t let her go it alone

Former Delta Operative Colt Kingston knows when someone is lying. He may not know the truth, but he sure doesn’t trust Tae, the mysterious woman his family rescued from an Alaskan blizzard. Behind those beautiful blue eyes, Colt can tell there is a troubled–and smart–woman.

A few of her stories prove true–they found the crashed plane and the dead body inside. Still, her tale of survival seems too incredible to believe . . . until the thugs she claims to be hunting her across Alaska show up and threaten Sky King Ranch. Now Tae must disappear, along with her secrets.

Colt will have to track her down and earn her trust before it’s too late. It’ll take the entire family to save the world from disaster.

The epic conclusion to Susan May Warren’s Sky King Ranch trilogy.

Happy Holidays Reader’s Bundle

Happy Holidays Reader’s Bundle

Bundle on sale November 26, 2022 – December 3, 2022, ONLY!

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A fantastic mashup of products specifically for people who love reading & books! 

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There’s something for everyone!
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