The Bride of Ivy Green (Tales from Ivy Hill # 3) by Julie Klassen

Book Description:

Much has happened in idyllic Ivy Hill in recent months, and while several villagers have found new love and purpose, questions remain--and a few dearly held dreams have yet to be fulfilled.

Jane Bell is torn. Gabriel Locke is back and has made his intentions clear. But Jane is reluctant to give up her inn and destine another man to a childless marriage. Then someone she never expected to see again returns to Ivy Hill. . . .

Mercy Grove has lost her school and is resigned to life as a spinster, especially as the man she admires seems out of reach. Should she uproot herself from Ivy Cottage to become a governess for a former pupil? Her decision will change more lives than her own.

A secretive new dressmaker arrives in the village, but the ladies soon suspect she isn't who she claims to be. Will they oust the imposter, or help rescue her from a dangerous predicament?

In the meantime, everyone expects Miss Brockwell to marry a titled gentleman, even though her heart is drawn to another. While the people of Ivy Hill anticipate one wedding, an unexpected bride may surprise them all.

Don't miss this romantic, stirring conclusion to Tales from Ivy Hill. 

My thoughts:

I have missed Ivy Hill so very much and even though I knew this was the last book in the series, I really couldn't wait to revisit this lovely village . I fell in love with the characters in the first book and with each book I found myself loving them more and more.

The  friendships have been enduring no matter the circumstances the characters found themselves in.  Through good times and bad times they have been there for each other which is something that I absolutely loved.  I have been partial to Jane but have been curious as to what would happen to Mercy since she lost her school in the last book.  I really wanted her to have the best life she could, and was counting on the author to give me the best outcome for all of the characters that I came to love.  

I only sat down to read for a few minutes but before I realized the time had flown by and I read half of the book in one afternoon.  I'm sorry to say goodbye to, Ivy Green but I'm sure glad I became acquainted with this lovely place and its lovely characters.

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

The White City (True Colors) by Grace Hitchcock

Book Description

Mysterious Disappearances Taint the Chicago World’s Fair
Step into True Colors -- a new series of Historical Stories of Romance and American Crime,

While attending the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893, Winnifred Wylde believes she witnessed a woman being kidnapped. She tries to convince her father, an inspector with the Chicago police, to look into reports of mysterious disappearances around the White City. Inspector Wylde tries to dismiss her claims as exaggeration of an overactive imagination, but he eventually concedes to letting her go undercover as secretary to the man in question—if she takes her pistol for protection and Jude Thorpe, a policeman, for bodyguard.

Will she be able to expose H. H. Holmes’s illicit activity, or will Winnifred become his next victim? 

My thoughts:

I loved the decision the author made to  place the very real serial killer, H.H. Holmes in this novel along with her fictional characters.  Winnifred Wylde the daughter of Inspector Wylde with the Chicago police department is a truly delightful character.  She's high-spirited, brave and very amusing.   It' s pretty hard not to love a protagonist who is an avid reader, right?  I loved Detective Jude Thorpe who has been assigned as Winnifred's bodyguard by her father.  Jude is the perfect hero, he's cautious, intelligent, witty and quite handsome.

Winnifred really does need a bodyguard when she persuades her father to allow her to work undercover as a secretary which placed her in danger. .  I found the storyline not only interesting but very entertaining as well.  There are several secondary characters who added fun elements especially, Percival a funny, kind and a somewhat of a silly young man and one of my favorites in this story.   It was refreshing to see Winnie have a social life and her interactions with other characters.    I enjoyed the lighthearted moments of each one of them throughout the book.

If anyone is expecting a detailed crime, gory detailed novel, this is not what this is.  What it is, is a well written and impressive debut novel based on a real life killer with sweet and likeable fictional characters woven into the storyline.    I absolutely loved this book which is why I highly recommend it.  I look forward to reading more from Ms. Hitchcock.

I received a copy from the author and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

About the book:

It’s almost Valentine’s Day, the busiest time of the year at Beechy’s Sweets, where the Amish gifts of love and faith are even sweeter than the home-made candy.  
THE SWEETEST COURTSHIP National Bestselling Author Emma Miller
At age thirty-six, Jacob Beechy is a rarity—a master candy maker, and a bachelor. His mother, however, still hopes for grandchildren. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, she convinces Jacob he will need extra help in the shop and interviews a string of applicants—for his
future wife . . .
 
THE SWEETEST TRUTH  National Bestselling Author Laura Bradford
Sadie Fischer has accepted that she will never marry. Her scars from a barn fire are a daily reminder of why. So when she receives mysterious gifts leading up to Valentine’s Day, including chocolate from Beechy’s, she’s bewildered—yet curious. Sadie may not think she’s pretty, but there’s a young man who sees only sweetness when he looks at her . . .
 
NOTHING TASTES SO SWEET Award Winning Author Mary Ellis
Pregnant and suddenly widowed, Hannah must give up the dreams she once had. But when she learns that her longtime English employer plans to sell his hardware store, she’s determined to buy it. She doesn’t realize that will mean following a clue from Beechy’s to clear a man’s name—and finding a partnership in work, faith, and love . . .

My thoughts:

The Amish Sweet Shop is a collection of three short stories that are sweet and clean reads.  Once I started reading this book it was a fast and easy read.

The message of faith, family and hard work is woven throughout.  The characters face loss of loved ones and new beginnings as they move on with their lives.  They make new friends as some settle into new towns.  Theere are some lighthearted moments that made me smile and added to my enjoyment of the novellas.

If readers are looking for a nice relaxing read than I recommend this one and it's suitable for all ages.

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinion are my own.

A Faithful Gathering (The Sisters of Lancaster County #3) by Leslie Gould

About the book:

Leisel Bachmann left her Amish roots and beloved sisters to pursue a career in medicine without a second thought. She has an Englisch boyfriend, Nick Jordan, and dreams of a new life--but those dreams come crashing down when her sister Marie is diagnosed with cancer.

Soon nothing is going as she planned--not her state boards, not her first nursing job, and certainly not her relationship with Nick. As she becomes increasingly discouraged, her aunt shares the story of Leisel's grandfather during World War II and the struggle he faced between returning to Lancaster or being with the woman he loved.

Peace and a vision for the future are difficult to find, and when Nick leaves Pennsylvania for a completely new life, Leisel is faced with impossible choices. Will she stay in Lancaster, close to her family and the traditions of her past? Or learn from her grandfather's story and embrace a life of love and service in an uncertain future? 

My thoughts:

I have been waiting for the third book in, The Sisters of Lancaster series and let me just tell you, it is well worth the wait.  Reading this is like visiting old friends because even though it's been awhile since you've caught up with them it's seems like you are just picking up where you left off the last time you were together.  That is one of the many things I love about this author is how she draws you in from the beginning with her well crafted characters and well researched plots.  If you are familiar with the authors work then you know she writes dual time lines that leave you wanting to know more about her characters ancestors.

Ms. Gould reunites the Bachmann family on their farm so there are characters who I have come to love along with some new characters that I grew fond of.  My all time favorite of everyone throughout this series has been Aenti Suz!  Goodness, that dear lady can tell a story since she knows so much family history.    There are different reasons families come together and in this book, Leisel

who has left her Amish roots to become a nurse goes home to be with her sister Marie who is having serious health issues.  Leisel has a lot to think while she's helping her family, she is concerned about passing her state boards, her Englisch boyfriend Nick, a Mennonite Doctor who has taken a personal interest in her and why her Mamm is behaving the way she did.  I found Mamm to be cold and dispassionate for the most part. 

There is so much to love about this book but my favorite part was when Aenti Suz shares the story of her father (Liesel's grandfather) a story that Liesel needs to hear so she can come to terms with what is happening in her life.  I loved how the author wove the two storylines together showing how past decisions are relevant to present decisions that Liesel must make. 

As a fan of both Amish and Historical fiction this book this hit mark on my favorite genres.  I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy one or both of these genres.  

I received a copy from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

Between Two Shores by Jocelyn Green

Book Description:

The daughter of a Mohawk mother and French father in 1759 Montreal, Catherine Duval finds it is easier to remain neutral in a world that is tearing itself apart. Content to trade with both the French and the British, Catherine is pulled into the fray against her wishes when her British ex-fiance, Samuel Crane, is taken prisoner by her father. Samuel asks her to help him escape, claiming he has information that could help end the war.

Peace appeals to Catherine, but helping the man who broke her heart does not. She delays . . . until attempts on Samuel's life convince her he's in mortal danger. Against her better judgment she helps him flee by river, using knowledge of the landscape to creep ever closer to freedom. Their time together rekindles feelings she thought long buried, and danger seems to hound their every mile. She's risked becoming a traitor by choosing a side, but will the decision cost her even more than she anticipated? 

My thoughts:

This book has a haunting quality to it that hit me hard making me feel such sadness at times and please don't get me wrong, I liked that.  When a book can evoke so many emotions it's a well written and wonderful one as far as I'm concerned.

Between Two Shores is a book that is meant to be read slowly and quietly because you will not want to skim over one artfully written word.  The incredible characters are finely crafted and I know that they will stay in my heart for quite some time.  I adored Catherine and felt like I was right here with her every step of the way as she took her journey.  And what a journey she took!

I am definitely not cut from the same cloth that Catherine is because I'm positive I wouldn't have taken the same chances she did. I have to admit to strongly disliking her father for his actions and yes I understand it was caused by his alcoholism so once again, I give kudos to Ms. Green for creating this man.  The secondary characters are just as wonderful so that added to my enjoyment of this novel.

Overall, there is so much to love in this book the superb writing, the well crafted characters and the rich historical storytelling.  The only thing I have left to say is this is a book that you should read. 

I received a complimentary copy of, Between Two Shores from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

Her Last Chance Cowboy by Tina Radcligge

Book Description:

She came seeking family…
Will she find love at Big Heart Ranch?

When pregnant single mother Hannah Vincent shows up professing to be the half sister of the Maxwells of Big Heart Ranch, horse trainer Tripp Walker is wary. Wounded before, he doesn’t trust easily. If only Hannah and her feisty five-year-old daughter weren’t so impossible to resist. Now, despite his doubts, joining this little family is quickly becoming the cautious cowboy’s greatest wish. 

My thoughts:

What a fantastic ending to a fantastic series!  Yes,I'm sorry to see this one end because I have grown fond of the characters at Big Heart Ranch.   I have liked Tripp since the beginning of the series so I  was excited to see what the author had in store for him and boy did she give him the storyline I think was well deserved.

Tripp is easy to love for many reasons but what drew me to him is his kindness, humor and I love that he's a vegetarian who happens to be known for his prize winning (meatless) chili. I can totally identify with that.  It took me a bit longer to warm up to Hannah although I adored her precious daughter, Clementine immediately.  As the story progressed I started to understand Hannah and I recognized her strengths.

I loved reconnecting with the characters from the first three books and finding out what had been happening in their lives.  As sad as I am to say goodbye to this series I am glad that I got to know them. I think that readers of clean, sweet western romance novels will feel the same so I which is why I have no hesitation when recommending this one to other readers.

I received a copy from the author and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

Atoning for Ashes by Kaitlin Covel

About the book:

Josie Chadwick dreams of marrying for love in Cornwall, England, but with her father's debt threatening to destroy all she holds dear, her romantic options are dwindling. When her elder sister Delia is disowned, Josie finds herself heiress of Chadwick Park, torn between dreams and duty. After sacrificing her heart to atone for Delia's sin, Josie clings to the hope she will learn to love a distant husband, whom she fears is incapable of requiting her affection.

Charles Radcliffe's heart has been scarred and hardened by rejection. He fears hurting his new bride, but his fears of betrayal and rejection are stronger, making it impossible for him to trust her love--let alone the love of her God.

As Josie and Charles face their new life together, ominous events warn of dark family secrets that could shatter them both. More than a loveless marriage is at stake if they cannot stand as one. Will they learn to trust God and each other before it's too late?

My thoughts:

Atoning for Ashes is the debut novel by Kaitlin Covel so naturally I was excited read her work.  I found her writing comparable to some popular, published authors.  And that cover is absolutely beautiful, isn't it?

The storyline is filled with adventure, mystery and fairly well crafted characters.  As with most novels I have read there are some characters that I liked more than others so that didn't interfere with my feelings and enjoyment of this book.  I will say that  this book required my full and undivided attention so make sure to be in your favorite comfortable reading spot before starting this one because there is a lot going on which made for a nice long read..  I loved Josie's story, she is a wonderful character who has a good heart and who tries to make her marriage a happy and successful one.  It took me longer to warm up to Charles but once I did, I started to understand him much more.

As much as I liked, Atoning for Ashes, I will have to say that there are some situations written in the book that will not be appropriate for the very young reader but they are unfortunate situations that can happen to anyone.   There is a message of forgiveness and faith which I really liked.

I received an advanced reader copy of Atoning for Ashes and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

Mending Fences (The Deacon's Family #1) by Suzanne Woods Fisher

About the book:

Every saint has a past. Every sinner has a future.
Luke Schrock is a new and improved man after a stint in rehab, though everyone in Stoney Ridge only remembers the old Luke. They might have forgiven him, but nobody trusts him.

Amos and Fern Lapp allow Luke to live at Windmill Farm under two conditions. First, Luke must make a sincere apology to each person he's hurt--a four-page, single-spaced list. Second, he must ask each victim of mischief to describe the damage he caused.

Simple, Luke thinks. Offering apologies is easy. But discovering the lasting effects his careless actions have caused . . . that isn't so simple. It's gut-wrenching.

And his list keeps growing. Izzy Miller, beautiful and frustratingly aloof, also boards at Windmill Farm. Luke's clumsy efforts to befriend Izzy only insult and annoy her. Eager to impress, Luke sets out to prove himself to her by locating her mother. When he does, her identity sends shock waves through Stoney Ridge.

Bestselling and award-winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher returns to her beloved Stoney Ridge for this brand-new series featuring some of her readers' favorite characters.

My thoughts:

Mending Fences is the first book in the Deacon's Family by Suzanne Woods Fisher.  It has been quite sometime since I read any of the Stoney Ridge books so it took me awhile to get interested in the storyline and the characters, but once I did I started to enjoy the book.

What stood out to me were the flawed characters seeking redemption, admittedly that really isn't a unique storyline at all but the fact that there were several flawed characters was interesting to me.  It took me a few chapters before I started to care for Luke but the thanks to the authors writing and character development  he became one of my favorites.  Luke Schrock has made really bad decisions in his life but back at Stoney Ridge he is desperately trying to make amends but his attempts don't always go as planned and some of them ended up being rather comical.

I liked Izzy Miller from the beginning and even more after Luke came to live at Windmill Farm.  They have a few humorous encounters that had me smiling especially as he's awakened night after night by Bo the horse he shares a barn with. Oh, I forgot to mention that Amos makes Luke sleep in the barn!  It's really not as bad as it seems because it adds some laughs throughout the book.
Speaking of Amos, I really liked him and his wife Fern because they are both good and kind people.

There is more to like about Mending Fences than I originally thought when I started reading it.  Luke is genuinely sorry for his past behavior and the kind gestures he makes to Amos, Fern and anyone else he wronged made for a delightful read.  I'm looking forward to the next book to find out what is going on in Stoney Ridge.

I received a copy of this book through Revell Reads.  I was under no obligation to post a review.  All opinions are my own.

All In (Bridgeport Socail Club #2) by Shelley Shepard Gray

About the book:

Meredith Hunt is content with her solo life. She owns and runs a successful Pilates studio, volunteers at the high school every week, and recently bought a house. She can take care of herself, which is good because she has a hard time relying on other people. When she's mugged and a handsome man comes to her rescue, she doesn't know how to accept his help-or how to stop staring into his chocolate-brown eyes.

Ace Vance moved to Bridgeport to offer his fifteen-year-old son, Finn, a better life. Here, Finn has a chance to play football for a good team and maybe even earn a college scholarship. And Ace scored a job at a top-notch garage, where he gets to fix up classic cars. Plus, they could both use some distance from Finn's toxic mom. The last thing on his mind is falling in love, but he can't help offering assistance to a gorgeous redhead in need.

Thrown together by a careless criminal, Meredith and Ace can't deny their attraction. But can they open their hearts-and their lives-to make room for love?

Shelley Shepard Gray's Bridgeport Social Club series explores how communities can come together to support each other, whether it's around a poker table, in a Pilates studio, or anywhere in between. Get ready to fall in love with a group of men and women who, even when they feel lost, refuse to lose hope.

My thoughts:

All In is the endearing story of Meredith Hunt, the owner/operator of a Pilates studio  and Ace Vance, a classic car mechanic.

Ace and his son Finn just happened to be in the right place at the right time when Meredith is mugged and that was the moment I loved father and son.  The genuine concern they had for Meredith spoke to my heart making me want to know more about them. As I turned page after page in this book, I soon realized the thread throughout the series has been the kind hearted and decent characters that are so easy to love.

They have careers that most of us can identify with, they live in modest homes and they have deep friendships.  I find it refreshing to meet characters who are unpretentious and genuinely care for each other and their community.  From the adults to the teens each character has held my interest and I have liked each storyline. The female characters are supportive of each other and the men n their lives.  

Now keep in mind the author has crafted characters that have real life experiences and aren't the least bit shy about speaking their minds so expect some colorful language from some of the hardworking folks in the series. Readers can also expect polite and truly likeable characters who are meeting new people, making new friends and entering into romantic relationships. This is the second book in the, Bridgeport Social Club series so I suggest reading the first book, Take a Chance. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley and was under no obligation to write  review.  All opinions are my own.

A Return of Devotion (Haven Manor # 2) by Kristi Ann Hunter

About the book:

Daphne Blakemoor was perfectly happy living in her own secluded world for twelve years. She had everything she needed—loved ones, a true home, and time to indulge her imagination. But when ownership of the estate where she works as a housekeeper passes on, and the new marquis has an undeniable connection to her past, everything she's come to rely upon is threatened.

William, Marquis of Chemsford's main goal in life is to be the exact opposite of his father. Starting a new life in the peace and quiet of the country sounds perfect until his housekeeper turns his life upside down.

They've spent their lives hiding from the past. Can they find the courage to face their deepest wounds and, perhaps, find a new path for the future together?

My thoughts:

A Return of Devotion is the second book in the series and I suggest reading the first one before beginning this one to familiarize yourself with the characters and their history.  Although if you want to jump right in with this one than I know you'll fall in love with this wonderful novel.

Just when I think that Ms. Hunter cannot top the last book she's written, she proves me wrong.  Every single time!  I'm okay with that and it makes me appreciate her work more with each book she writes. 

This novel is one that is meant to be read slowly and thoroughly so you won't miss one incredible detail.  From beginning to end I found myself caught up in the lives of Daphne, William, Benedict and the other characters so lovingly crafted by the author.

I absolutely adored Daphne.  She takes her responsibility seriously,  she's fiercely protective of the those she loves, a little shy and is a bit fanciful at times.  William is perplexed from the time he meets Daphne and his small household staff.  The humorous thoughts he has coupled with the clever exchanges with Daphne are highly entertaining.  There is so much more to this story than witty banter, there are life changing decisions both Daphne and William have to make.  Their
journey is emotional and beautifully written.  This is a book that I can say without a doubt is a must read.

I cannot wait to read the next book in the series to find out what Ms. Hunter has in store for her readers.
I received a copy from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

The Forgiving Jar (The Prayer Jars Book Two) by Wanda E. Brunstetter

About the book:

What would happen if you found out someone has been impersonating you?   Sara Murray had never met her mother’s parents and was surprised to learn after her death that they were Amish living in Pennsylvania. When she is finally able to make the trip to meet them, she is shocked to learn someone else has been living with them and pretending to be Sara. Sara can’t understand how quickly her grandparents are willing to forgive the imposter.
 
Secrets and deceit seem to follow Sara, and she is so tired of it. Though soon she meets Brad Fuller who is visiting her grandparents for during Christmas. She likes him a lot, but even he seems to pull away from her, not being totally honest.
 
Struggling, Sara finds an old canning jar hidden in the barn that is full of encouraging prayers. Can Sara find a way to forgive the past and move on to building new relationships?

This is Book 2 in the brand-new series, The Prayer Jars, from New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter.
Book 1 -- The Hope Jar (August 2018)
Book 3 -- The Healing Jar (August 2019)

My thoughts:

I am really enjoying The Prayer Jars series.  In the second book the author focuses on the relationship between Sara and Michelle and how they each see themselves fitting into the lives of Willis and Mary Ruth.  Sara is bound to be suspicious of Michelle's motives since she pretended to be Sara in the first book.  Factor in jealousy and distrust which is understandable while lending a realism to the storyline.

Let's face, it both girls had valid reasons to feel the way they did given their life experiences.  Michelle has had a pretty bad upbringing and Sara found out that her mother was Amish after her mother's death.  I'm pretty sure my emotions would be all over the place, just as Sara's were. Especially when I saw the person who had pretended to be me, living in my grandparents home.

I didn't care too much for Michelle in the first book but she has matured and grown into a person who is worthy of being forgiven for her past actions.  While being accepted in the community she has had time to think about how she wants to live her life and what she needs to do for a brighter future and the people she wants to be part of her future.  It took me awhile to warm up to Sara but once I started to understand her feelings I sympathized with her and understood her character better.  I was rooting for her to find her own happiness and have the life she wanted.

I was happy to catch up with Ezekiel and Brad because they have been two of my favorites since I met them in the first book.  Brad has definite ideas about the qualities he wants in a wife which is as it should be and I like that he isn't the type to settle for less.  Ezekiel has matured and made important life decisions that made me even more fond of him.

Overall this story of love, faith, family and forgiveness is one of my favorites penned by Ms. Brunstetter. I love how she brings her characters to life for her readers and leaves you wanting more which is why I cannot wait to read the third book in the series to find out what she will share with us next. 

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher and was under no obligation to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

With Winter's First Frost (Every Amish Season #4) by Kelly Irvin

About the book:

From bestselling author Kelly Irvin comes the fourth and final book in the compelling Every Amish Season series.

Will the long, cold winter prove to be Laura and Zechariah's season of renewed purpose and love sweetened with age?

Laura Kauffman has been a widow for eight years--since her husband of forty-five years passed away in his sleep on Christmas Eve. She tries to keep herself busy with her nine children, fifty-two grandchildren, and twenty-eight great-grandchildren. But she can't stop wondering: What does God expect her to do with her days now? Has her usefulness been expended? Why leave her to carry on alone? Those are questions she can't answer until a friend suffers complications during childbirth and needs someone to help care for her newborn twins and three older children. The twins' great-grandfather, Zechariah Stutzman, a widower himself, seems to need some upkeep as well. Suddenly, Laura has her hands full, and the long winter days don't seem so long.

Zechariah suffers from Parkinson's disease. When his wife died of breast cancer two years earlier, his children insisted he live with one of his grandsons and their growing family because of his disease's progression. He's not allowed to drive, chop wood, or build fires. He feels he has outlived his usefulness. Then Laura comes along and seems determined to change that.

Both Laura and Zechariah must seek God's will to find the purpose for this season in their lives. They have to be willing to trust and to accept that second chances for romantic love are possible--even probable--when they give control of their lives to God.

My thoughts:

As sad as I am to see this series come to an end, I believe the author ended it on a high and positive note.  I've been a fan of, An Every Amish Season since the beginning and have come to love the characters and their stories. 

I was drawn into the lives of Laura Kaufman and Zechariah Stutzman the two main characters in this book.  An elderly man and woman who have suffered the loss of loved ones through the years. Laura and Zechariah are now experiencing what many in their age group experience such as forgetfulness, chronic illness, and probably the most devastating of all their loss of independence.   There story is poignant and so real as I thought about the older people in my life.

Ms. Irvin has written this entire series quite beautifully and taken her readers into the lives of her characters along the way.   As I have finished each of the four books I have felt like I have made new friends and am certain that I will miss them.   Having been a fan of the author for a few years, I know that she will be creating more great books with more fantastic characters for me to love.

This book could be read as a standalone but in my opinion the series should be read in order and hopefully you will enjoy them as much as I have.

I received this book from the publisher through BookLook Bloggers.  I was not required to write a review.  All opinions are my own.

Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe by Carla Laureano

About the book:

From the RITA Award-winning author of Five Days in Skye comes a sweet, romantic treat that will leave you hungry for more.

Baker and pastry chef Melody Johansson has always believed in finding the positive in every situation, but seven years after she moved to Denver, she can't deny that she's stuck in a rut. One relationship after another has ended in disaster, and her classical French training is being wasted on her night job in a mediocre chain bakery. Then the charming and handsome private pilot Justin Keller lands on the doorstep of her workplace in a snowstorm, and Melody feels like it's a sign that her luck is finally turning around.

Justin is intrigued by the lively bohemian baker, but the last thing he's looking for is a relationship. His own romantic failures have proven that the demands of his job are incompatible with meaningful connections, and he's already pledged his life savings to a new business venture across the country--an island air charter in Florida with his sister and brother-in-law.

Against their better judgment, Melody and Justin find themselves drawn together by their unconventional career choices and shared love of adventure. But when an unexpected windfall provides Melody with the chance to open her dream bakery-caf� in Denver with her best friend, chef Rachel Bishop, she's faced with an impossible choice: stay and put down roots with the people and place she's come to call home . . . or give it all up for the man she loves.

My thoughts:

Food, fun and friendship is what’s on the menu in, Brunch at the Bittersweet Cafe. Add a huge amount of hard work, sprinkle with a little romance and voila, that’s the recipe for this perfectly charming novel.

I loved Melody the pastry chef who takes bookstagram photos pairing her beautiful baked creations with just the right antique book. How genius is that? The descriptions of her desserts and breads are mouth-watering so you may want to have some pastries or something sweet to snack on while reading this one. It was nice catching up with characters from, The Saturday Night Supper Club and meeting a few new ones.

Justin was easily one of my favorites because he is not only charming but willing to make a huge change in his life for his sister which made me love him instantly. The attraction between Melody and Justin is a fun element that I enjoyed but I liked that they each had their own interests especially since she is in the process of opening a restaurant with Rachel who is still doing the Supper Club.

As much as I have liked both books in the series, I have to admit that I liked this one a little bit more. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book to find out what delightful treats the author will share with her readers.

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley with no obligation to post a review. All opinions are my own

A Desperate Hope (Empire State #3) by Elizabeth Camden

About the book:

Eloise Drake's prim demeanor hides the turbulent past she's finally put behind her—or so she thinks. A mathematical genius, she's now a successful accountant for the largest engineering project in 1908 New York. But to her dismay, her new position puts her back in the path of the man responsible for her deepest heartbreak.

Alex Duval is the mayor of a town about to be wiped off the map. The state plans to flood the entire valley where his town sits in order to build a new reservoir, and Alex is stunned to discover the woman he once loved on the team charged with the demolition. With his world crumbling around him, Alex devises a risky plan to save his town—but he needs Eloise's help to succeed.

Alex is determined to win back the woman he thought he'd lost forever, but even their combined ingenuity may not be enough to overcome the odds against them before it's too late.

My thoughts:

This one is a real page turner so be sure to carve out some serious reading time before sitting down to start the book. I loved the first two books in the series so it was a safe assumption that I would love this one, too. I just didn't know how much I would love it! 

I love the story of Eloise Drake a successful accountant in New York and Alex Duval the mayor of Duval Springs, a town that is about to be obliterated.  He once loved her but when he discovers she is on the team charged with the demolition it's safe to say it's not the happiest of reunions.  Ms. Camden  brought the characters to life with her beautiful writing and vivid descriptions of the town , its residents and it's buildings.   I found myself truly caring about what would happen to the characters, their businesses and their homes.  Alex possessed an inner strength and the need to preserve what is near and dear to him and he is not letting anyone take anything from him that he cares about.  I admired his spirit and soon started to see the same spirit in Eloise.

Overall, A Desperate Hope is a fantastic story that flows at a perfect pace with memorable characters who are easy to love.  If you have read the first two books in the series you will recognize the names and their stories.  This could be read as a stand alone but I suggest you read the series in order because it's just that good.  I am sorry to see this series come to an end but I look forward to the authors future work.

I received a copy from the publisher and was under no obligation to write  review.  All opinions are my own.