Silver Bells and Secrets ~ Review

Silver Bells and Secrets: a Regency Christmas romance

Twelfth Night #1

By Laura Rollins

Grace Stewart's season in London left her feeling alone, when it ended early, so she reaches out via letter to one of the young women she met there. But when his younger sister refuses to respond to this missive searching out friendship, Lord Ezra writes to Grace instead. Grace delights in this friendship while Ezra is struck by how perfectly he and Grace get along with there likes and enjoyments.

But when Grace writes about her hopes for the upcoming Christmas season and the possibility that she may make a marriage match, Ezra realizes the perfect muddle he has made of everything. He's fallen in love with Grace and she has no idea who he is. Determined to keep Grace from making a decision that will result in her marriage to someone else, Ezra does the only thing he can - he asks that he be added to the Christmas festivities.

When a stranger arrives at the Christmas House party, Grace is more than a little surprised when he can't take his eyes off of her. Has she created some some error, made a social gaffe?  Surprised at Lord Ezra Weston's attentions, Grace is left with a quandary - does she encourage the attentions of Mr. Brown or Lord Weston? Her simple background and untitled parentage finds her beneath Ezra socially so why should he pursue her?

What follows is a delightful story of holiday romance. Could a letter written seeking out friendship end in something more? And when Grace discovers the true identity of her "friend" will she be mortified, outraged, or delighted? Ezra's time to win Grace's heart is short and factors are not in his favor.

Silver Bells and Secrets is an enjoyable story that you will want to enjoy when the hustle and bustle of holiday expectations start to get to you. Take a step back to a simpler, though not less stressful, time and allow yourself to be drawn into this quest to win the heart of his perfect match. This is a delightful way to start a series and I for one can't wait to discover the future pleasures and delights awaiting me next year in Sugar Plums and Scandal.

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:

Grace plans to marry the host of their Christmas house party.

Ezra has only until it ends to convince her otherwise.

Lord Ezra Weston has done something incredibly stupid. Through a series of events he prefers not to consider too closely, he has begun a written correspondence with Miss Grace Stewart under the guise of being his own sister. She’s witty, considerate, and as much in need of a friend as he is. So, why not continue? That is, until Grace writes and says she’s set her cap at someone. In only a few words, Ezra realizes he hasn’t only made a friend these past many months, he’s fallen in love.

As an earl, Ezra can get himself invited to the Christmas house party hosted by Grace's would-be husband. But once there, how does he plead his case? Either he loses Grace’s trust and friendship, or he loses his one chance at happiness. But that seems only fitting, seeing as he’s already lost his heart.

The beginning of a new series by sweet historical romance author Laura Rollins, Silver Bells and Secrets will have you cuddling up by the fireplace and humming carols. This short and sweet Christmas story is packed with charming characters, hilarious capers, and a clean and wholesome romance, sure to light the Christmas spirit inside you all year round.

Twelfth Night Novellas *books can be read in any order*
~Silver Bells and Secrets
~Sugar Plums and Scandal (coming Christmas 2022)
~Mistletoe and Mischief (coming Christmas 2023)

The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone ~ Takeover Tour with Giveaway

Welcome to the Takeover Tour for 

The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone by David James Warren, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOKS

Titles: Cast the First Stone, 

No Unturned Stone, 

Sticks and Stone, 

Set in Stone, 

Blood from a Stone, 

Heart of Stone 

Series: The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #1-6 

Author: David James Warren 

Publisher: TriStone Media 

Release Date: 2021 

Genre: Time Travel Detective Series

 

  

Strap in for the mild-bending, time travel thrill ride of the True Lies of Rembrandt Stone, by author David James Warren (the pseudonym of authors Susan May Warren, James L. Rubart, and David C. Warren). 

It started with the chance to go back and fix the past--solve the one case that always haunted him. It ended in former Detective Rembrandt Stone finding himself tangled in time, chasing a serial killer across multiple timelines, searching for an answer that will save the people he loves. He'll discover himself in a way he never thought possible...and if he plays the game right, find an ending that is beyond his wildest dreams. 

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

James L. Rubart is 28 years old, but lives trapped inside an older man’s body. He’s the best-selling, Christy Hall of Fame author of ten novels and loves to send readers on mind-bending journeys they’ll remember months after they finish one of his stories. He’s dad to the two most outstanding sons on the planet and lives with his amazing wife on a small lake in eastern Washington. More at http://jameslrubart.com/

CONNECT WITH JAMES: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award-winning author of more than eighty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 30 years, she loves traveling and telling stories about life, adventure, and faith. For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at www.susanmaywarren.com. 

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

David Curtis Warren is making his literary debut in these novels, and he’s never been more excited. He looks forward to creating more riveting stories with Susie and Jim, as well as on his own. He’s grateful for his co-writers, family, and faith, buoying him during the pandemic of 2020, and this writing and publishing process.

CONNECT WITH DAVID: Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone 
(6 books, print US only, ebook available internationally) 

(1) winner will receive The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone audiobook set 

(6 audiobooks)

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. The full tour schedule is linked below. The giveaway began at midnight December 13, 2021, and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on December 20, 2021. 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. Print US only, international ebook. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Texas Killer Connection ~ Cover Reveal

Book #5 of author Virginia Vaughan's Cowboy Lawmen Series, Texas Killer Connection, releases April 26, 2022, and it has a cover!

Preorder at https://amzn.to/3Gyg7xu

To catch a killer

they’ll need to find the evidence.

When the investigation into her look-alike cousin’s death stalls, former army intelligence officer Brooke Moore arrives in Texas searching for justice—and is thrust into the middle of a deadly conspiracy. Now she must turn to her cousin’s ex, FBI agent Colby Avery, for help. But with every clue leading them deeper into danger, they must uncover the truth…before they are buried with it.

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Cowboy Lawmen
Book 1: Texas Twin Abduction
Book 2: Texas Holiday Hideout
Book 3: Texas Target Standoff
Book 4: Texas Baby Cover-Up
Book 5: Texas Killer Connection

Deep Haven Takeover Tour with Giveaway

Welcome to the Takeover Tour for Deep Haven Collection presented by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOKS

Titles: Still the One by Rachel D. Russell, Can't Buy Me Love by Andrea Christenson, Crazy for You by Michelle Sass Aleckson, Then Came You by Rachel D. Russell, Hangin' by a Moment by Andrea Christenson, Right Here Waiting by Michelle Sass Aleckson 

Series: Deep Haven Collection #1-6 

Lead Author: Susan May Warren 

Publisher: Sunrise Publishing 

Release Date: 2021 

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Deep Haven…a town in beautiful Minnesota where everyone escapes for a second chance and a fresh start - everyone from local artists, off-the-grid homesteaders, resort owners, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts who love to canoe, hike and camp in the north woods. Of course, every town has its café owners, police and fire-fighting force, the hospital staff, the school, the local football team and, well, people from every walk of life. 

They also have trouble. Crime. Disasters. Tragedy. Family drama… heartbreak. 

But in Deep Haven, there is no problem so deep that God’s love isn’t deeper. 

It’s time to return to Deep Haven. 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Christianbook

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

 

Susan May Warren is the USA Today best-selling novelist of 80 books. With more than 1.5 million books in print, she is beloved by reviewers and readers around the world. Visit Susan at www.susanmaywarren.com.

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Rachel D. Russell is a member of Oregon Christian Writers and My Book Therapy’s Novel Academy, and is a regular contributor to the Learn How to Write a Novel blog. The mother of two teenagers, she often interrogates her husband on his own military and law enforcement experience to craft believable heroes in uniform. The rest of her time is spent cantering her horse down the Oregon trails. Visit Rachel at www.racheldrussell.com.

CONNECT WITH RACHEL: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Andrea Christenson lives in a Minneapolis, MN suburb with her husband and two daughters. When she is not busy homeschooling her girls, she loves to read anything she can get her hands on. She believes that a great loaf of artistic bread can turn a meal into a masterpiece. Andrea’s prayer is to write stories revealing God’s love.

CONNECT WITH ANDREA: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

After growing upon both the east and west coasts, Michelle Sass Aleckson now lives the country life in central Minnesota with her own hero and their four kids. She loves rocking out to 80’s music on a Saturday night, playing Balderdash with the fam, and getting lost in good stories. Especially stories that shine grace. And if you’re wondering, yes, Sass is her maiden name. Visit her at www.michellealeckson.com. 

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

Merging the creative energies of best-selling authors Susan May Warren and Lindsay Harrel, Sunrise Publishing is the matchmaker for established authors who want to build on their current success for future growth and aspiring authors looking to break out, build an audience, and hone their writing skills. 

CONNECT WITH SUNRISE: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | admin@sunrisepublishing.com

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive the Deep Haven Collection (6 books, print US only, ebook available internationally) (1) winner will receive the Deep Haven Collection audiobook set (6 audiobooks)

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight December 9, 2021 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on December 16, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. print US only, international ebook. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Crosshairs ~ Review

Crosshairs
Natchez Trace Park Rangers #3
By Patricia Bradley

When Ainsley Beaumontis was sent by the Investigative Services Branch to investigate the murder of a teen girl she is less than thrilled to be returning home to the memories of the past. And having to work with the man who betrayed her heart and her trust is the last thing she ever expected to do. 

Linc Steele gave up his career with the FBI after an assignment went wrong and his best friend paid the price. The guilt has driven him home to take a position with the National Park Service as an interpretive ranger and to leave his gun behind. And he lives with the regret of losing Ainsley all those years ago.

When someone puts Ainsley in their sights their murder investigation becomes a lot more complicated. Is the investigation responsible for the attempts on her life? A past case? Or something closer to home? If they can discover the reason why they'll be able to discover who. 

Crosshairs is the third book in the Natchez Trace Park Rangers series and it is just as exciting as the first two books. There are unexpected twists to keep you guessing up to the end as to just who is the guilty party.  And there are some interesting family dynamics at play throughout that add an interesting element to the plotline. I love Ainsley's Gran and her no-nonsense approach to things. This was an intriguing book to try to get a handle on as it unfolded.   I recommend this as a great book-getaway - mystery, political intrigue, family secrets, and romance.

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:
Investigative Services Branch ranger Ainsley Beaumont returns to her hometown of Natchez, Mississippi, to investigate the murder of a teenage girl, she never imagined that she would become the killer's next target--nor that she'd have to work alongside an old flame.

After he almost killed a child, former FBI sniper Lincoln Steele couldn't bring himself to fire a gun, which had deadly and unforeseen consequences for his best friend. Crushed beneath a load of guilt, Linc is working at Melrose Estate as an interpretive ranger. But as danger closes in on Ainsley during her murder investigation, Linc will have to find the courage to protect her. The only question is, will it be too little, too late?

Award-winning author Patricia Bradley continues her Natchez Trace Park Rangers series with a story about how good must prevail when evil just won't quit.

Reclaiming Hope ~ Review

Reclaiming Hope

Hooper Island #6

By Carolyn Miller

Callie Steele's life is steady and reliable just like her - so what if it mostly revolves around work? She loves what she does. But when she is tasked with coming up with assisting presenting a potential client an estimate for landscaping work she never anticipated it would be a life-changing event.

Kai Brody is near his wit's end with his surfer career on hold while he recovers from an injury. His parents are determined that he should give up all his fun and games and join the family business. Kai isn't so sure he is ready to give it all up. With weeks of time to fill on Hooper Island, he is more than pleased when Callie Steele shows up and delighted when she holds her own with his mother.

Callie doesn't have time for fun and she's never been the object of any guy's attention so when Kai focuses on her she is more than a little shocked. And when he gets her to step out of her structured and organized world and have fun and even enjoy it no one is more surprised than she is. 

But can two people so different in personality and background ever have a future together? Callie is about to find out. And then there is a little secret that Kai is keeping that could destroy everything.

Reclaiming Hope is the sixth book in the Hooper Island series and the nineteenth book in the Independence Island series. This is a fun and thoughtful book that will have you cheering on Callie and Kai as they work through life and navigate what could be the most momentous friendship of both their lives. These characters come to life with all the charm and realism that fans of Carolyn Miller have come to expect from her. A delightful island escape is waiting for you between this cover - perfect for a staycation in your favorite reading corner.

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:

Opposites attract—and repel. But which is more powerful?

Callie Steele might be a bit… focused on work, but despite what her employers say, she enjoys her well-ordered, productive life.

When she’s sent to meet the owners of an estate requiring post-hurricane landscaping, Callie meets their son, Kai Brody, a super-chilled pro surfer, who is as opposite from her as they come. Though initially smitten, Callie knows a relationship with Kai is a bad idea—a very bad idea.

Kai, however, can’t help but be intrigued by someone who challenges him to make something of his life again. He’s determined to pursue her if she’ll give him half a chance.

The more time they spend together, negotiating the challenges of work, illness, and family, the more their opposing outlooks clash and connect. What do these unlikely friends really want from life? Is it best to focus on work or recreation?

As Kai and Callie seek answers from the Lord, they also must consider if such complete opposites have enough in common to make a relationship last.

Reclaiming Hope concludes the Hooper Island stories of the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

Entwined ~ Review

Entwined'

Knights of Brethren #2

By Jody Hedlund

Lis's true identity was revealed to her by Maxim just before he and Princess Elinor went into hiding. Not seeking to lay claim to her heritage Lis seeks to thwart the threat to King Ulrik and Norvegia. Sir Ansgar made an impression when they meet on the battlefield and is the Knight of Brethren she seeks out.

But the treachery that is seeking to destroy the kingdom from within has set its sights on the Brethren. And its first target is Sir Ansgar.

Entwined is the sequel to Enamored and continues the adventures of the Knights of Brethren as they fight to protect their kingdom and their king and maybe love along the way. This is a medieval romance that is written for the teen reader who wants something different from the standard YA fare available while written so that older readers are still able to enjoy and delve deep into the book. I really recommend reading the first book in the series as you will need the backstory to fully grasp and understand how we got to where we are. Treachery is afoot and only those most worthy can stand in its way.

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

About the Book:

During a time when legends were born . . .

A princess cursed from birth, a loyal knight worthy of being king,
 and a sword that can determine their destiny.

After growing up on a remote farm, Lis learns she is the rightful heir to the throne of Norvegia. Even as she does her part to thwart a dangerous plot against the king, she resists pursuing her new identity and resigns herself to a simple life helping her elderly father with their farm.

With the king losing his mind, Sir Ansgar, the highest knight in the land, is desperate to save the sovereign he's sworn to protect. But before Ansgar can uncover what is causing the king's demise, he finds himself falsely accused of treason and dismissed from court.

In danger of losing his life, Ansgar takes refuge on Lis's farm. Love soon blossoms between Ansgar and Lis, even as they realize a future together is impossible. Yet they must unite to save the kingdom from ever-growing forces of evil. Are their destinies entwined? Or will they be ripped apart forever?

The real story of Excalibur continues . . .