A Dazzle of Diamonds ~ Review

A Dazzle of Diamonds
Georgia Coast Romance #3 

By Liz Johnson

Penelope Hunter and Tucker Westbrook have been best friends forever. She's seen him through the tough times with his dad and been the stabilizing influence in his life as he adjusted from life in the military to one of a civilian. He's been the shoulder for Penelope to cry on when her wedding day found her jilted at the altar. 

But when Tucker finds himself goaded into running for county sheriff he and Penelope find themselves in a race against time to prove that Tucker's family wasn't traitors. Penelope's job is riding on clearing Tucker and the Westbrooks' name. There is just one little problem - Penelope may have accidentally let her ex-fiancé and his fiancée think she and Tucker are dating - whoops. 

To keep up appearances and prevent further tongue-wagging Tucker and Penelope agree to pretend to date. Pretend dating, investigating the Westbrooks' past, and searching for rumored 150-year-old treasure finds these two best friends spending a whole lot more time together - time that could forever alter their future friendship. But will it lead to something more or destroy what they have always had?

This is the third book in the Georgia Coast Romance series and I think this may be my favorite. Penelope is a fun person to get to know. She is passionate about her work and cares about those around her. Tucker seems to have it all together but he is always seeking to prove his worth to his dad and those around him who are more than a little critical of him. This book is set in the present day with glimpses into 1864 Savannah through the journal of a young woman - a journal that is important to Penelope and Tucker's search for answers. But sometimes the answers we seek aren't the ones we find or truly want in the end. 

This book is easily read as a standalone - there are several characters from the previous books who are in this one but not so prominent as to require knowing what came before to enjoy it. The pacing and overall tone are good and well-balanced. Overall a nice way to take a trip to Georgia from the comfort of your own home. 

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

About the Book:

Penelope Hunter loves her job as the events manager at one of Savannah's premier historic venues--until her ex-fiancé walks into her office with his new bride-to-be. To make matters worse, a scheming social matriarch is intent on seeing Penelope fired, especially if she insists on being seen with Tucker Westbrook.

Since returning from serving two tours in the Middle East, Tucker has built a thriving security company. His work is almost as stabilizing as his friendship with Penelope, who has been by his side since childhood. But when the lone candidate for county sheriff goads him, Tucker loses his cool and ends up on the ballot--and on the receiving end of a smear campaign claiming the Westbrooks were traitors to the South.

To clear his name, Tucker and Penelope must join forces to find the truth behind a 150-year-old lost treasure. But the more time they spend together, the closer she comes to losing her job--and falling helplessly in love.

The Dancing Princess ~ Review

The Dancing Princess
A Twist of Adventure #5
By Kendra E. Ardnek

Katrine wants nothing to do with dancing - it is her nightmares come to life. But when the Young King of Chalik-Alexi asks her to dance she refuses. But refusing to dance cannot save her from the nightmare as the music draws her in. But refusing the music's call is something she is simply unable to do.

But Katine is offered a chance to free herself from the curse she now lives under. A curse that Alexi and the forgotten princes have been trapped in for twenty years. Can this one offer truly free her if she freely accepts it?

Trapped by his folly Alexi has spent years trying to undo the damage he did. But always his attempts have been stymied by the person whom he refused years ago. Can an ageless king and princess whose nights are a prison of a song not her own hope to defeat a powerful being with the power to erase them forever from time and memory. This is a fight that cannot be won without risk and the risk is their very lives.

The Dancing Princess is a twist on a well-known fairy-tale that readers of this genre will enjoy. The story at 45 pages is not overly long and moves at a nice pace. One might actually feel that is longer than it is just because one can get drawn in so quickly. It is nice if you have an hour or two of spare time and want to get the satisfaction of sitting down and finishing a book in one sitting this is perfect for doing so. There is an unexpected character of Russian origin who makes an appearance and is a vital character to the story - want to know the identity well you will just have to read the book.

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

 About the Book:

A Twist of Adventure #5: Plagued by nightmares for the last few years, Katrine only wanted answers. Instead, she finds herself trapped in a tangled web of melody as she tries to free a cursed king and his brothers. No one deserves existence such as theirs, but dare she risk her very life? 

Purchase Link: Amazon 

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Author Bio:

Kendra E. Ardnek is the self-proclaimed Arista of Fairy Tales. She lives in the Piney Woods of East Texas with her dragon babies and a massive herd of mini-giraffes, and she is still waiting for one of her fifty nutcrackers to come to life and marry her. When not writing, you can usually find her sitting in a random box, and she's frequently known to act before she thinks. 

Find her online at:

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Don't Keep Silent ~ Review

Don't Keep Silent
Uncommon Justice #3
By Elizabeth Goddard

Liam McKade has always tried to leave his troubles behind. But this time his problems have followed him home and he isn't sure what to do about it. Months ago he was injured and the wound wasn't only physical. The woman he loved, the woman he stepped in front of a bullet for had used him for a story. He never wants to see Rae Burke again but she stole part of his heart when she left.

Rae Burke wants to live up to the standard of her late father. She is determined to use her skills as an investigative report to make a difference, to save lives, to expose evil. She never meant to fall in love and she never meant to hurt him. But now she needs his help again. Her sister-in-law is missing and the only clue to Zoey's past is in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, right smack-dab in the middle of McKade country. Now she just has to talk to Liam and breakthrough his hurt and anger.

Five years ago Zoey Dumont disappeared without an explanation for a week. When she reappeared she had been obviously abused but she refused to speak about it. Rae can't help but feel that Zoey's current disappearance is connected to what happened five years ago. Can Rae and Liam connect the pieces before they become the next victims? Time is against them and someone seems intent on stopping them no matter the cost.

Don't Keep Silent is the third and final book in the Uncommon Justice series which features the McKade brothers. This time the focus is on Liam who left home and the pain of his childhood behind. He created a life for himself in the military and then with the DEA. Until it all came crashing down around him when Rae Burke walked into his heart. Can he find it in his heart to forgive her and welcome her back into his life? Or will he let Rae walkway once they find Zoey?

Now this book could be read as a standalone but it is ever so much better when read as a part of the series. The McKade story explains so much about these brothers and it is slowly revealed throughout the series. Each brother is a different person but all are still dealing with the loss of their mother and their father's abusive behavior. Liam is the final brother who needs to make peace with his past and this is that story and it is well worth enjoying in your favorite reading corner. If you like Romantic Suspense be sure to add this book to your tbr(to be read) pile. Fans of Elizabeth Goddard's work will be highly satisfied with this series conclusion.

About the Book:

Justice comes easy

for these two. 

But forgiveness? 

That's another matter altogether.

Investigative reporter Rae Burke will do anything to find her missing sister-in-law, even if it means facing Liam McKade, a man who almost lost his life saving hers. A former DEA agent, Liam thought he could find peace at his Wyoming ranch, but he doesn't feel at home anywhere anymore. When the reporter who blew his cover on an important investigation inserts herself back into his life, he's less than thrilled. But Rae's keen investigative skills have led her down the right path--and directly into the dragon's mouth--leaving Liam no choice but to protect her.

As the danger increases, the past they both tried to flee catches up to them, along with the feelings they once had for each other.

The London Restoration ~ Review with Giveaway

The London Restoration
By Rachel McMillan

Diana Somerville's war didn't end when the British troops returned home. She wants nothing more than to restart the life she had just started with her husband Brent Somerville before the war took him to the continent. Her work during the war has her bound to keep secrets from her husband - he thought she spent her days translating messages but it was so much more than that. She is bound to not speak about her true work due to her signing of the Official Secrets Act. And secrets are now between them.

Brent wanted nothing more than to come home to his wife and his professorship at King's College. But something is off with his marriage - first, when he came home Diana wasn't in London, in fact, she wasn't even in England. And then he knows she is keeping secrets from him - a favor for a friend is all the reason she gives for her absence. And then there are his secrets. He is determined to protect her from his wartime memories, to keep his wounds hidden from sight, to keep her from witnessing his nightmares night after night. 

With a growing list of things to keep them apart only their love seems to be tying them together. But love, that, like London, has had its walls damaged is in a precarious position. Is the foundation upon which it built strong enough to handle the rebuilding needed? As Diana studies the churches of London that she has so come love, she works on plans to help in their rebuilding and restoration. With Brent at her side as she works on a project near to her heart, she can only hope that this will bridge the divide that the war has created.

The London Restoration is more than a world rebuilding after the devastation of war, it is a world on the brink of another war. A war of ideology and manipulation - a cold war. But can a war be one fought only in the shadows and dark corners? When Diana and Brent discover a priceless religious artifact among the rubble they are drawn further into this secret war. But a war of ideology is no safer than the one just fought for those who find themselves on the frontline. This is something for which Diana was never trained and one in which she and Brent could very easily find themselves victim to.

The London Restoration is a multi-faceted story that is both personal and historical. Rachel McMillan does an excellent job capturing the reader's attention, I for one read the book over a weekend and was reluctant to put it down when other matters demanded my attention. The story is set in 1938 - 1946 with the story told in a nonlinear fashion but each time change is clearly marked at the beginning of that chapter. I personally like having the story unfold so that key moments in the backstory are slowly revealed adding greater depth to the story as it progresses. 

I have to admit I fell in love with this cover.  That red hat, London in the golden glow of sunlight - it is a perfect attention grabber all but begging me to pick it up and peek inside. And I am not sorry for a single moment spent between the covers getting to know these characters. 

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

** I have also obtained the audio version of this book through Libro.fm and it is narrated by Hannah Curtis. It is an excellent presentation if you prefer to listen to your book rather than read it. At 11 hours and 47 minutes, it is a length that is perfect for housework, commutes, or just a quiet afternoon to relax with.

About the Book:

Determined to save their marriage 

and the city they love, 

two people 

divided by World War II’s secrets

rebuild 

their lives, 

their love, 

and their world.

London, Fall 1945. Architectural historian Diana Somerville’s experience as a codebreaker at Bletchley Park and her knowledge of London’s churches intersect in MI6’s pursuit of a Russian agent named Eternity. Diana wants nothing more than to begin again with her husband Brent after their separation during the war, but her signing of the Official Secrets Act keeps him at a distance.

Brent Somerville, professor of theology at King’s College, hopes aiding his wife with her church consultations will help him better understand why she disappeared when he needed her most. But he must find a way to reconcile his traumatic experiences as a stretcher-bearer on the European front with her obvious lies about her wartime activities and whereabouts.

Featuring a timeless love story bolstered by flashbacks and the excavation of a priceless Roman artifact, The London Restoration is a richly atmospheric look at post-war London as two people changed by war rebuild amidst the city’s reconstruction.

Purchase Links

Amazon | Books-A-Million | Barnes and Noble

About the Author:

Rachel McMillan is the author of the Herringford and Watts mysteries, the Three Quarter Time series of contemporary romances set in opulent Vienna, and the Van Buren and DeLuca mysteries praised for bringing an authentic 1930’s Boston world to life while normalizing the fictional conversation surrounding mental illness. 

Her first work of non-fiction, described as a romantic’s guide to independent travel, releases in 2020. 

Rachel lives in Toronto, Canada.

Connect with Rachel

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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To Sketch a Sphinx ~ Review

To Sketch a Sphinx
The London League #6
By Rebecca Connolly

The end was just the beginning...

Hal is just an asset never working in the field herself. But now Henrietta Mortimer is about to receive a codename "Sketch" and be given a field mission. And her mission is going to take her to France where she will be connecting with her late mother's family - a family she knows nothing about. Why she is being tasked is beyond her understanding - other than her memory and artistic skills she has nothing to offer in her estimation. But for Weaver, she'll do just about anything. There is just one small matter to take care of before she goes forth - she's expected to get married first. And she has no idea who she expected to wed.

John Pratt aka "Sphinx" has a gift for his code-breaking, he sees patterns in what most would think as an ordinary letter. He has always worked behind the scenes for the League, never in the field, that is until now. His brother "Rook" has been the field operative of the Pratt family, he is the serious brother. the one not seen amongst society. But his skills are needed in France and as part of his cover, he is expected to marry his partner. 

Can they convince the enemy that they are a happily married couple who have become disenchanted with England? Or will they compromise their mission before it even begins with a clash of personalities that have never worked well together in the past?

I really enjoyed this sixth book in the London League series. It was fun getting to know Hal as more than just an artist. And it is interesting to see how these two differing personalities have to learn to work together. But the big question is whether they will be able to discover what the Faction is doing and how they have compromised the League? Fans of Rebecca Connolly will not be disappointed in this latest offering. To be honest, this may be my favorite book in the London League series - I really enjoyed getting to know Sketch and Sphinx as operatives and individuals. I highly recommend this if you want a clean-read Regency era weekend escape from your day-to-day.

About the Book:

From the Hand of Sketch...

Henrietta "Hal" Mortimer has been working with England's operatives and spies for years, her remarkable memory and artistic talents invaluable to many missions. The last thing she expects is to be pulled into a field mission herself and to be partnered with the most insufferable asset she has ever met. Worse, then, that she has to marry the man.

And the mind of Sphinx...

There are very few people who rattle John Pratt, gifted code-breaker for the Crown, but Hal Mortimer was one of them. Marrying her in order to go into the field for their mission in Paris would be torture, but they had no choice. Will their mutual spite doom their mission before it starts or can they set it aside and work together for the safety and security of their country?

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/

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