Worthy of Legend ~ Review

Worthy of Legend

The Secrets of the Isles #3

By Roseanna M. White

Worthy of Legend is the third and final book in The Secret of the Isles series, which I'll admit is always a little sad when a series concludes. I've loved all the books in this series and was glad to see Bram get his chance to be more than a grumbling morning bear with a huge sweet tooth. Libby's older brother, who just managed to hang around as all the mystery surrounding the long-hidden pirate treasure unfolds, gets his chance to be one of the heroes he's long secretly admired. 

Bram Sinclair, the Earl of Telford, gets his story, and it was well worth the wait. We learn he has always had a secret fascination with King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Or, in Libby's opinion, it's more of an obsession. But Bram's knowledge is about to come in very handy when an old diary hints at an Arthurian artifact hidden on the Isles. 

Lady Emily made her choice, and her family has cut her off until she makes her apologies. But standing for right isn't something to apologize for, and for once, Emily is going to take a stand. She just didn't realize how much it could cost her. Can the friends she's made over the summer be enough to withstand what is coming?

With Emily's family determined to make a find that will bring them further acclaim, it is a race to find and safeguard this long-lost piece of history. But more is at stake with Emily's brother Nigel searching the Isles. His utter cruelty could cost them more than a priceless treasure - it could cost them their lives.

Worthy of Legend is a fitting end to this series. I loved watching the characters change and grow. I never thought Bram would become a favorite, but he does so with this book, as we get glimpses of his strength of character (including a love of lost puppies). Mamm-wynn is one character I would love to get to know when she was younger. Did she have the special insight she shares now when she was young? I loved her character, and her words of wisdom and warning to her grandchildren and those who came to the isles added a special touch. She grounded everyone else as moments of crisis came.

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:

After a summer of successful pirate-treasure hunting, Lady Emily Scofield and her friends must hide the unprecedented discoveries they've made, thanks to the betrayal of her own family. Horrified by her brother, who stops at nothing to prove himself to their greedy father, Emily is forced to take a stand against her family--even when it means being cut off entirely.

Bram Sinclair, Earl of Telford, is fascinated with tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table--an interest he's kept mostly hidden for the last decade. But when a diary is unearthed on the islands that could lead to a secret artifact, Bram is the only one able to piece the legends together.

As Bram and Emily seek out the whereabouts of the hidden artifact, they must dodge her family and a team of archeologists. In a race against time, it is up to them to decide what makes a hero worthy of legend. Is it fighting valiantly to claim the treasure . . . or sacrificing everything in the name of selfless love? 

Cold Dead Night ~ Review with Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for 

Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips, 

hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Cold Dead Night

Brand of Justice #1

By Lisa Phillips

Kenna Banbury never wanted to get caught up in any case in Salt Lake City; when she gets a desperate plea for help, she can't say no. But she is soon caught up in a killer's deadly game, a game that brings back everything she lost two years prior. 

Two years ago, Kenna's life went wrong, and it drove her out of her job with the FBI. But a killer has drawn her back, and she is forced to work with FBI Special Agent Oliver Jaxton. But she can't help wondering just whose side Special Agent Jaxton is on.

Kenna's past has put God on the back burner. After all, He let everything be taken, and now someone wants to do so again. With evidence pointing to Kenna, she has to stay as far off the FBI's radar as possible.

Now Cold Dead Night has some moments of violence that are a touch disturbing. The story overall is good - there is plenty of suspense, and there are secrets that need to be revealed. This is a psychological thriller that you'll want to keep reading with each chapter. If you are a fan of romantic suspense, don't look for it in this book which is the first in a new series. Kenna is hurting from what happened two years ago. and it would be a disservice to her character in this book to pursue a romance. I recommend it with a caution to be aware that there is off-scene violence that one reads the results of.

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: Cold Dead Night 

Series: Brand of Justice #

Author: Lisa Phillips 

Publisher: Two Dogs Publishing

Release Date: August 25, 2022 

Genre: Christian Suspense

The FBI betrayed her. Now they need her.

Private Investigator Kenna Banbury lost everything two years ago at the hands of a serial killer. From the ashes of that encounter, she’s built a life she believes in, searching for the lost and forgotten all over the western US. 

Bringing her own brand of justice.

When a series of murders drags her into an FBI investigation, Kenna finds herself back in the place where it all went wrong. Struggling to make sense of the case, Kenna’s past and present collide in a deadly plot that risks another betrayal and threatens to shatter everything she’s built. 

Kenna faces the ultimate test in this first book of a brand-new series from Lisa Phillips. 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

USA Today and Publisher's Weekly Bestselling Author Lisa Phillips is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London. It wasn't until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Since then she's discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.

Connect with Lisa by visiting authorlisaphillips.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 hardcover copy of Cold Dead Night and merch including a custom pen and chapstick. (3) additional winners will receive an ebook copy of Cold Dead Night.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 5, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 12, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only except books available internationally. 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!

Entrusted ~ Review

Entrusted

Knights of Brethren #6

By Jody Hedlund

The race to save their country from their neighbor is coming to a close as time has run out. The enemy has crossed their border and has advanced deeper into Norvegia. Kristoffer Prestegard is the last Knight of Brethren with any hope of capturing the holy lamp from Swaine's troops. But what he doesn't realize is that there are other forces at work, forces that are bent on toppling King Ansgar and putting Kristoffer on the throne in his stead. 

But Kristoffer's loyalty is to Norvegia and King Ansgar. And he is determined to stop the Dark Warriors, who are aiding King Canute's efforts in taking Norvegia. When he and his squires come face to face with these formidable warriors in the dark of night, Kristoffer never imagined he might come away from the battle with something that could aid him in his quest. Princess Birgitta of Swaine was leading the warriors, holding their blood thirst in check. At least, she was before she became a prisoner.

What follows is a battle of wits and intellect as Kristoffer seeks to prevent his prisoner's escape and Brigitta attempts to lull him into complacency. What neither expected was the spark of attraction to grow between them. Falling in love with the enemy can't happen.

Entrusted is the sixth and final book in the Knights of Brethren series, and it is the definite climax as everything comes together. Will Norvegia withstand the threats, or will she fall as forces within and without conspire against her? As the final book, I can only say, "WOW!" This book was excellent and draws the series to a conclusion that can't be missed. Treachery, betrayal, a kingdom teetering on the brink, and a thoroughly impossible attraction. Yes, Jody Hedlund knows how to weave words so that one enters a world and becomes thoroughly engaged so that when the end comes, one is disappointed that the end has come. 

I do recommend reading all the books in the series as they build upon one another. But the immediate predecessor, Enflamed, is an absolute must, as it too deals with the third quest - the search for the holy lamp and focuses on Kristoffer's family, providing needed background for Entrusted. Now I know this series is over, but I would love a companion series that would touch on some of the other characters and what happens to them. That, in my opinion, is the best endorsement of any book or series when you want more from this world.

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:

During a time when legends were born . . .

ENTRUSTED

The feisty enemy princess, 

the cunning knight holding her captive, 

and the ultimate battle that will determine their fate.

Hoping to minimize the death and destruction of the coming war, Princess Birgitta of Swaine leads the Dark Warriors as part of her brother King Canute’s efforts to take the throne of Norvegia. As she engages in a skirmish with a band of elite Knights of Brethren, she’s kidnapped by Kristoffer Prestegard, a cunning warrior.

While searching for the holy lamp that can help defeat the Dark Warriors, Kristoffer realizes that Swaine has already seized the ancient relic. Since King Canute is fiercely protective of his sister, Kristoffer offers to return Princess Birgitta in exchange for the coveted holy lamp.

While trying to keep his feisty prisoner from escaping, Kristoffer learns that his father and uncle have set in motion a scheme that would give him the kingship of Norvegia. Where will Kristoffer’s loyalties lie, and how will he choose sides without losing everything, including the princess he’s grown to love?

The real story of the Holy Lamp continues . . .

An Advent Carols Countdown ~ Review

An Advent Carols Countdown

Stories Behind the Most Beloved Music of Christmas

By Michael D. Young

An Advent Carols Countdown is a new way to enjoy Christmas carols, some that are familiar and others not much. Each day from December 1-24 explores a different carol. The first page is the lyrics of the carol, while the following page or pages explain the history of the carol. Each day is a chance to discover something new.

I love how this "advent" book is just for the days of December leading up to Christmas Day. Often advent books are for the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, which can vary in entries and not work from year to year. While this book uses a date - December 1 as its start date - a date, that will allow this book to become a part of your family traditions to celebrate the Christmas season.

There is an included QR code with each and every song so that you can experience each song yourself. I love this as there were a couple songs I was unfamiliar with. At approximately 120 pages, one is able to get a good understanding of each carol and its song without getting bogged down with too much info. So this would make a great family time activity for those eight years and up, in my opinion. Those younger might get bored or distracted but should, at least, enjoy the chance to, at least, watch and/or listen to the songs.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. 

About the Book:

Get in the Christmas spirit with this unique collection of the most beloved Christmas carols, from the warmly nostalgic to the majestically solemn and uplifting. The book features one carol for each day from December first to Christmas Eve, and presents both the lyrics and the fascinating stories and interesting facts behind the creation of the songs. Each entry deepens our understanding of the music and enhances our appreciation of why these songs are culturally important and dearly treasured.

From popular, familiar carols to lesser-known but cherished hymns, author Michael D. Young combines his musical expertise with information specific to each song.

An Advent Carols Countdown is a beautiful gift book for the whole family to enjoy along with the music of the holidays. Each entry also features a QR code that will link to an audio or video performance of the carol performed by the choir most associated with Christmas, the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir.

Escape Route ~ Review with Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Escape Route by Tanya Stowe, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

Escape Route 

By Tanya Stowe

When TJ Baskins stumbles upon tracks while flying for the border patrol, she didn't expect the agents she was helping to wind up dead. Worse, the killer saw her, and she now has a target on her back. When border patrol assigns an agent to "babysit" her, they couldn't have picked a worse agent, in her opinion - Trace Layton has earned her ire, and she's not about to let him forget it.

Trace made mistakes when he was a teen, and not standing up to his brother and his bully friend was one of the worst. He never meant for Tara Jean to get hurt, but she did, and she may never forgive him. But he is determined to keep her safe even if she's determined to bring the man responsible for everything to justice.

Escape Route is a standalone title that is a Love Inspired Suspense offering, so you are assured of clean-reading suspense. Now the suspense isn't over the top, but you are left with several scenes where you wonder if everyone will make it out alive. TJ is an interesting character - she has an obvious chip on her shoulder and has problems exhibiting forgiveness. The few scenes that include her mother make for an interesting contrast. There are some interesting family and personal dynamics in play when it comes to both TJ and Trace.

The past has decided to pay a visit, and it is seeking what it feels is its due - and the price is too high. Can they stop it before it extracts its price?

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

Title: Escape Route 

Author: Tanya Stowe 

Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense 

Release Date: August 23, 2022 

Genre: Christian, Romantic Suspense

 

Exposing a gang’s leader… 

                   is the only way out of danger

While flying above the Texas border, helicopter pilot Tara Jean “TJ” Baskins witnesses a brutal murder. Now a deadly arms-smuggling gang wants her out of the way. To stay alive, TJ must work with border patrol officer Trace Leyton—her old friend and the man who once betrayed her—to catch the ringleader. But when the search leads to Trace’s family, can TJ trust him to save her? 

  From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tanya Stowe is a Christian Fiction author with an unexpected edge. She is a Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author who fills her books with the unusual…mysteries and exotic travel, even a murder or two. No matter where Tanya takes you…on a train down a mountain or a suspenseful journey packed with danger…be prepared for the extraordinary.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Escape Route and $25 Amazon gift card. (2) additional winners will receive a print copy of Escape Route.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 29, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 5, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. 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!

You'll Be Mine ~ Review

You'll Be Mine

Hearts Bend Collection #2

By Mandy Boerma and Rachel Hauck

She never thought she'd return to Hearts Bend after losing her mother there. But God has other plans for Cami Jackson when the local inn comes on the market. Cami needs to connect with her past and the happy memories she once held. She just didn't expect to reconnect with her first love - Ben Carter.

Ben hadn't planned on spending his summer in Hearts Bend, but to move on in his life, he needs to settle his grandmother's estate, and that means unloading the inn that's his family's legacy.

Hearts Bend is about to work its magic on two people carrying scars from the past. But will they listen or continue on the lonely paths that they've mapped out for themselves? This is a delightful story of second chances, forgiveness, and family. Hearts Bend is the perfect place to get away from the hustle of modern life and its stresses. And the Hearts Bend Inn is the perfect place to have a happily ever after-along with a few bumps.

I received a complimentary copy of the book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.

About the Book:

He just wants to leave the past behind him…

International hotel manager Ben Carter is not sticking around Hearts Bend. He’s just home to sell the inn he inherited from his grandparents. The place holds all his best memories—especially the ones that include regular summer guest Cami Jackson. But she’s been out of his life for years, and she’s not coming back.

She is headed for a glorious future…

Real estate developer Cami Jackson is ready to take over as VP of her father’s company, Akron Development. When the Hearts Bend Inn comes on the market, she wants to swoop it up, if only because of the sweet memories of her favorite summers. The last thing she expects to find is her first love back to sign on the dotted line.

But a first love won’t let them go…

The more time Cami and Ben spend together, the more they realize they have unfinished business. Suddenly, an impulsive decision could turn into a lost-but-found dream. But for Cami’s father, the inn holds memories of a terrible tragedy, and he wants to kill the deal.

Will their lost dreams survive another betrayal?

A heart-healing story second chances set in the charming town of Hearts Bend!

Be sure to check-out my Instagram post to enter the giveaway!

When the Day Comes ~ Review

When the Day Comes

Timeless #1

By Gabrielle Meyer

Libby is a woman in two worlds, and she must decide which life she will sacrifice. All her life, Libby spends her days in one world and her nights in another because sleep allows her to cross time. And her two worlds couldn't be more different. In 1774, Williamsburg, she is living on the edge of revolution, while in 1914, New York, she is living on the cusp of change. She knows the decision she plans to make - in one life, her family needs her, and her heart belongs to another. But Libby can't make her decision, leaving one of her lives behind until her 21 birthday. 

In 1774, her family works as a public printer. The work is hard and takes much of her day, but she is living through history - seeing and hearing moments that will change not only her life and those around her but also the world. 

In 1914, Libby lives a life of wealth and privilege, and to her mother's consternation she takes an active interest in the cause of suffrage rather than pursuing a marriage to English aristocracy. What Libby doesn't know is that the rumors of war are about to change the world yet again.

When the Day Comes is an intriguing story. What life would one choose if you could only live one? Which family would you give up? What would decide for you the path that you would take? I have to admit I don't know if I could make such a choice. In one life, she is known as a time-crosser, but in the other, she is just a daughter. I understand why Libby chose the path that she did, but still, it was heartbreaking for her as she said her goodbyes silently, unable to share all that was on her heart. This is the first book in a new series, and though this book is complete, there was most definitely an opening made for what could come next (or before, depending on the time and the time-crosser). 

Who would you leave behind, dying to the life and family you willingly gave up?

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:

How will she choose, knowing all she must sacrifice?

Libby has been given a powerful gift: to live one life in 1774 Colonial Williamsburg and the other in 1914 Gilded Age New York City. When she falls asleep in one life, she wakes up in the other. While she's the same person at her core in both times, she's leading two vastly different lives.

In Colonial Williamsburg, Libby is a public printer for the House of Burgesses and the Royal Governor, trying to provide for her family and support the Patriot cause. The man she loves, Henry Montgomery, has his own secrets. As the revolution draws near, both their lives--and any hope of love--are put in jeopardy.

Libby's life in 1914 New York is filled with wealth, drawing room conversations, and bachelors. But the only work she cares about--women's suffrage--is discouraged, and her mother is intent on marrying her off to an English marquess. The growing talk of war in Europe only complicates matters.

But Libby knows she's not destined to live two lives forever. On her twenty-first birthday, she must choose one path and forfeit the other--but how can she choose when she has so much to lose in each life?