Wednesday, September 30, 2020

His Love Revealed (Welcome to Ruby, Book 2) by Cynthia Herron

 

Book Synopsis

Will revelations of the past hijack their future?

Since childhood, Ida Mae Hoscutt, the beloved proprietress of the Come and Get It Diner, has loved Charles “Chuck” Farrow from afar. Now on the eve of her thirty-ninth birthday with no marriage proposal in sight, Ida Mae mourns past mistakes and contemplates a makeover. When a radio commercial wrenches Ida Mae’s heart, will a sudden turn of events sabotage her chance for happiness or will a long-held secret be the answer to love ever-after?

As Ida Mae’s right-hand man at the Come and Get It, Chuck yearns to shift gears and start over. He’s ready to shelve bachelorhood and blunders in favor of possibilities and new beginnings. When he prepares to move forward, two things challenge his objective. One is the father who walked away and never looked back. The other? A decades-old question that only Ida Mae can answer.

And Ida Mae isn’t talking.
 


My thoughts:

Everything I have heard about this author have been positive, so I wanted to find out for myself if I would agree with all of the glowing remarks and reviews, and I wholeheartedly agree.   I felt right at home in Ruby, Missouri with Ida Mae and Chuck at The Come and Get It Diner.

Ida Mae and Chuck have been friends since childhood, she has loved him since then and as her 39th birthday approaches, she wants more than that.  I was just as perplexed as the next person why these two hadn’t made progress in their relationship until I read more of their story which by the way is amazing.   The journey the author takes her readers on is filled with secrets, food, heartaches and a community in a town that I wish existed. Ms. Herron brings her characters to life with her gifted storytelling and I will definitely read more of her work. 

I received an e-copy of this book, all opinions expressed are my own.


Sunday, September 27, 2020

The Cowboy's Christmas Blessings by Jill Kemerer

Book Blurb

The most memorable Christmases are the ones you don’t expect…

Will welcoming them for Christmas

have him wishing for more?

Judd Wilson lives a solitary life…until he learns Nicole Taylor and her infant triplets need somewhere to stay. The cabin on his ranch is the perfect solution, but now his quiet Christmas alone feels a lot more crowded. Recently widowed, Nicole questions her swiftly developing feelings for Judd, even if the older man is wonderful with her babies. Is she ready to take that leap again?



My thoughts:

The Cowboy’s Christmas Blessings is the latest novel penned by Ms. Kemerer.  I loved everything about this beautifully written story of widowed, Nicolle Taylor, her infant triplets and the kind, gentle, Judd Wilson.  Judd   is someone who you would want in your corner if you faced any hardships because he definitely would help you out in a difficult situation.   

My heart went out to Nicolle as she set out to find a home for herself and her babies and the author made you feel her joy at finding the perfect place for her family.  I could easily imagine her excitement when she saw the cabin that Judd offered her and I could picture her caring for her babies, while cooking and baking.

Overall, I thought this sweet, clean read was so good that I have already read it twice which is why I recommend it to other readers of inspirational romance novels.   As far as I’m concerned it is never too early to read Christmas stories, especially is they are as wonderful as this one.

 

Saturday, September 26, 2020

A Ranger for the Twins by Tanya Agler: Blog Tour and Giveaway #RFTPrism

 




A Ranger for the Twins

By Tanya Agler

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

October 6, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

 She fell from grace…

 Before falling for him 

When her husband defrauded the town of Hollydale, now-divorced mom Lucie Decker went from being the town darling to total pariah. Now she’s launching a new business and needs ranger Caleb Spindler’s help. And her twins adore Caleb. After all, he’s a genuine hero—even if he is hiding a secret. But while Lucie’s heart has forgotten how to trust, it still remembers how to fall in love…

(AFFILIATE LINKS)

Goodreads   Amazon   B&N   Book Depository   Indie Bound

BAM   Harlequin Print   Walmart   Apple Books   Google Play   Kobo


My thoughts:

A Ranger for the Twins really is a Heartwarming story and one that had me rooting for Lucie Decker and her sweet twins. Lucie has an ex-husband who defrauded their hometown of Hollydale, left her with the stigma of being married to scoundrel when all she wants to know is live her life , raise her kids and start a new business. Trust is a not easily given sometimes and harder to regain once it’s been broken.

I felt so bad for her for being the fall person when in reality she had no knowledge of or part of any wrong doing, but as the wife of a conman it was natural, she was perceived as being in on the scheme. I had to give her credit for doing what she could to provide a home and living for her family. Lucie and her twins aren’t the only characters who will steal your heart, nope, there is also a handsome, helpful Ranger named, Caleb Spindler and some quirky pets to steal your heart and put a smile on your face.

There are bumps in the road as Lucie tries to move on with her life, there are some people in town who aren’t as welcoming and forgiving but through determination and hard work she just may be able to have the life she deserves. I loved this sweet novel which is why I recommend it to readers of most ages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions are completely my own.


Other Books in the Series

The Sheriff's Second Chance

By Tanya Agler

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages

January 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Broken things can’t be fixed…

 

Or can they?

 

Officer and single dad Mike Harrison doesn’t believe in second chances. Ever. That is, until he learns that his former best friend—gorgeous green-eyed car mechanic Georgie Bennett—is back in town. Unfortunately, she’s also a suspect in a recent break-in! But it’ll take an old classic car to show Mike and Georgie that almost anything can be restored with a little patience…and a whole lot of love.


 (Affiliate Links)

Goodreads   Amazon   B&N   BAM   Walmart   Harlequin Print   Apple Books   Google Play   Kobo


About the Author



  


An award-winning author, Tanya Agler moved often during her childhood and settled in Georgia where she writes sweet contemporary romance novels, which feature small towns, family and pets, and themes of second chances and hope. Her debut, The Sheriff’s Second Chance, is a January of 2020 Harlequin Heartwarming release. The sequel, A Ranger for the Twins, will be released in Oct. 2020. A graduate of the University of Georgia with degrees in journalism and law, she lives with her wonderful husband, their four children, and a lovable Basset, who really rules the roost. Represented by Dawn Dowdle and the Blue Ridge Literary Agency, she’s currently at work on the sequels to her debut. When she’s not writing, Tanya loves classic movies, walking, and a good cup of tea.

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a tote bag, $10 Amazon gift card, signed print copy of The Sheriff's Second Chance and a pen (US only)
Ends October 7, 2020

ENTER HERE






Tour Schedule

September 21st:

Launch

Reading Excursions

Hearts & Scribbles

Among the Reads

September 22nd:

Rockin' Book Reviews

Beauty in the Binding

Becky on Books

September 23rd:

Christian Chick's Thoughts

Christy's Cozy Corners

Jorie Loves A Story

September 24th:

Older & Smarter?

E-Romance News

Splashes of Joy

September 25th:

Pause for Tales

reviewingbooksplusmore

quirkybookreads

September 28th:

Peaceful Pastime

Kimber Li

Kathryn Cooper Writes

September 29th:

A Baker’s Perspective

Two Points of Interest

Adventures of a Travelers Wife

Andi's Book Reviews

September 30th:

Bookworm Journey

underneath the covers

My Life Loves and Passion

Read Review Rejoice

October 1st:

Hallie Reads

Heidi Reads...

Red Headed Book Lady

Harlie's Books

October 2nd:

Bizwings Blog

Teatime and Books

Bookish Jottings

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting

October 3rd:

Grand Finale


Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Cave of Secrets by Shannon Redmon

 

About the book

What she uncovers

may get her killed…

When Carli Moore finds the body of Zain Wescott’s missing sister on her family’s ranch, Zain is convinced Carli’s brother is the murderer. But Carli’s sure Zain is wrong, and she’ll prove it—if the killer doesn’t take out both her and Zain first. Now they just have to live long enough to uncover the truth…and bring a murderer to justice.


My thoughts:

Cave of Secrets is simply amazing and certainly does not seem like a debut novel, at all.  Ms. Redmon had my undivided attention from the very beginning when Carli Moore found the body of Zain Wescott’s missing sister on her family’s ranch.  The storyline is filled with suspense and had me turning pages as fast as I could, I didn’t want to put this book down until I knew what had happened and what was going to happen.

There was never a time when I got distracted while reading this novel, the characters are fantastic and the pace is perfect. Kudos to the author for keeping me guessing and totally surprising me with the ending.  Shannon Redmon is a gifted storyteller and I eagerly look forward to reading the next story she chooses to tell. I definitely recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.  All opinions are completely my own.


Monday, September 14, 2020

Something Worth Doing by Jane Kirkpatrick

 

About the book

In 1853, Abigail Scott was a 19-year-old school teacher in Oregon Territory when she married Ben Duniway. Marriage meant giving up on teaching, but Abigail always believed she was meant to be more than a good wife and mother. When financial mistakes and an injury force Ben to stop working, Abigail becomes the primary breadwinner for her growing family. What she sees as a working woman appalls her, and she devotes her life to fighting for the rights of women, including their right to vote.

Following Abigail as she bears six children, runs a millinery and a private school, helps on the farm, writes novels, gives speeches, and eventually runs a newspaper supporting women's suffrage, Something Worth Doing explores issues that will resonate strongly with modern women: the pull between career and family, finding one's place in the public sphere, and dealing with frustrations and prejudices women encounter when they compete in male-dominated spaces. Based on a true story of a pioneer for women's rights from award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick will inspire you to believe that some things are worth doing--even when the cost is great.
 





My thoughts:

I have been reading a lot of historical fiction lately which makes sense because it’s one of my favorite genres. This one was different due to the fact that it is based on a woman who worked for women’s suffrage which I really appreciated as another elections draws near.  It’s been some time since I have read a novel like this one and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Abigail and her husband, Ben.  Their lives weren’t always easy given the losses they suffered but Abigail showed such strength as she worked tirelessly for her own family but for women in general.

I admired her for her strength and perseverance as she tackled everything head on, no matter how hard it was, she faces it and fought for what she believed in. I also liked Ben who was supportive of his wife, he stayed home to take care of their family and home when needed.  Something Worth Doing is definitely a novel worth reading which is why I highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are completely my own.


The Librarian of Boone's Hollow by Kim Vogel Sawyer

 

                                                                     About the book

A traveling librarian ventures into the mining towns of Kentucky on horseback and rediscovers her passions in this powerful novel from the best-selling author of A Silken Thread.

During the Great Depression, Addie Cowherd dreams of being a novelist and offering readers the escape that books gave her during her tragic childhood. When her adoptive father loses his job, she is forced to leave college and take the only employment she can find--delivering books on horseback to poor coal mining families in the hills of Kentucky.

The small community of Boone's Hollow is suspicious of outsiders and steeped in superstitions that leave Addie feeling rejected and indignant. Although she finds an unexpected friend in an elderly outcast, the other horseback librarians scorn her determination to befriend Nanny Fay.

Emmett Tharp grew up in the tiny mountain hamlet where most men either work in the coal mine or run moonshine. He's the first in the community to earn a college degree, and he has big dreams, but witnesses the Depression robbing many young men of their future.

Then someone sets out to sabotage the library program, going so far as to destroy Addie's novel in progress. Will the saboteur chase Addie and the other librarians away, or will knowledge emerge victorious over prejudice? Is Emmett the local ally that Addie needs--and might their friendship lead to something more?

Inspired by the real WPA program that sent librarians on horseback to deliver books to hill families in Kentucky, Kim Vogel Sawyer immersed herself in Appalachian history to tell this captivating story.
 


My thoughts:

The Librarian of Boone’s County penned by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a terrific historical novel set during the Great Depression.   I thoroughly enjoyed the journey each of the characters took to make it through the trying times they faced, life was hard for most everyone in that time period and the author wrote of those hardships in such a way that it drew me into their lives.  As a reader, that’s exactly what I wanted and that’s exactly what I got.

I found the storyline extremely interesting as I read about the librarians traveling through the rugged countryside by horseback or mule to deliver reading material to the community scattered across the mountains.  It really was fascinating as is the story of the men and boys who worked in the mining industry even if they didn’t relish the idea but they did what they had to feed their families.  Some of the situations the characters were in was heartbreaking but I really did admire and respect their determination and hard work. 

Overall, I thought this novel was beautifully crafted with compelling characters.  I also liked the pace and I got to know the characters which made for a wonderful read.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.  All opinions expressed are completely my own.


Saturday, September 12, 2020

Dogwood Plantation by Carrie Fancett Pagels

 

Book Blurb

When a deadly yellow fever outbreak draws Cornelia Gill back home, her new independent life must be abandoned. Injured veteran, Carter Williams, likewise must return to Dogwood Plantation when he suffers grievous family losses. Both become caretakers to younger family members. As the War of 1812 heats up, two wounded hearts begin to heal. But can they manage all that life has handed them?


My  thoughts:

Dogwood Plantation is the riveting new novel by Carrie Fancett Pagels, set in Virginia during the war of 1812.  I loved this richly detailed, thoroughly researched, historical romance novel. This wasn’t always an easy read given the time period with slavery, yellow fever, family drama, but the author made this a worthwhile read.

The. characters were well developed; the descriptions were vivid and the writing was top-notch which kept me interested from beginning to end.  Fans of historical fiction will want a copy of this this.


Tuesday, September 8, 2020

A Portrait of Loyalty (The Codebreakers 3) by Roseanna M. White

 

About the book

He sees patterns in what she deems chaos.
She sees beauty in a world he thought destroyed.

Zivon Marin was one of Russia’s top cryptographers until the October Revolution tore apart his world. Forced to flee to England after speaking out against Lenin, Zivon is driven by a growing anger and determined to offer his services to the Brits. But never far from his mind is his brother, whom Zivon fears died in the train crash that separated them.

Lily Blackwell sees the world best through the lens of a camera and possesses unsurpassed skill when it comes to retouching and re-creating photographs. With her father’s connections in propaganda, she’s recruited to the intelligence division, even though her mother would disapprove if she ever found out.

After Captain Blackwell invites Zivon to dinner one evening, a friendship blooms between him and Lily that soon takes over their hearts. But both have secrets they’re unwilling to share, and neither is entirely sure they can trust the other. When Zivon’s loyalties are called into question, proving him honest is about more than one couple’s future dreams–it becomes a matter of ending the war.

 

My thoughts:


I have loved this series by Ms. White, each book just gets more interesting and keeps me turning pages long after I should be going to bed.  A Portrait of Loyalty went above and beyond my expectations, maybe it’s because I realized the series was ending or maybe because I loved the storyline and the characters much more than I anticipated.

I loved Lily because I found her photography skills to be amazing, her job fascinating and her family relationships pretty interesting.  I loved Lily even more with Ziovon and found their relationship to be so tender and sweet. It was also nice to see characters from the first books, making this reader feel like I was reconnecting with old friends.  This book has everything I wanted and more from romance, sadness, illness, hope and good solid writing. A Portrait of Loyalty is a novel that will stay in my heart for quite a long time.

I received a copy from the publisher through Netgalley.  All opinions are my own.

Meet the author


Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.



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