The Song of Sourwood Mountain by Ann H. Gabhart

 

While the century began with such promise, it is 1910 when Mira Dean's hopes of being a wife and mother are dashed to pieces. Her fiancé dead from tuberculosis, Mira resigns herself to being a spinster schoolteacher--until Gordon Covington shows up. No longer the boy she knew from school, Gordon is now a preacher who is full of surprises. First, he asks Mira to come to Sourwood in eastern Kentucky to teach at his mission school.

 Second, he asks her to marry him. Just like that. And all at once the doors that had seemed firmly shut begin to open, just a crack. With much trepidation, Mira steps out in faith into a life she never imagined, in a place filled with its own special challenges, to serve a people who will end up becoming the family she always dreamed of. From the pen of bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart comes a heartwarming story of the unexpected blessings that can come when we dare to follow the Lord's leading.

My thoughts:

When I want to read any historical novel, I look for one penned by this author. I know I will be caught up in the storyline, meet wonderful characters and most importantly, be thoroughly entertained without leaving my house.

I love the setting, the history and the sad reality faced by the people of Sourwood Mountain.  The message of faith and integrity are woven together perfectly, making this an incredible read.  Fans of both historical and Christian fiction will find this book well worth the read.

My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy.  Opinions are my own.

An Amish Healing (A Romance): Includes Amish Recipes and Reading Group Guide

INSPIRED BY A TRUE
From an author who has sold 3 million books.

Ada Glick enjoys her role as resident veterinarian in her small Amish community. Even though true love hasn’t found her yet, Ada occupies her time by caring for her neighbors’ fur-babies after receiving informal training from a veterinarian in town.

When an injured dog shows up unexpectedly on her front porch, Ada tends to him with the care she’s always given to animals in need. During the time she cares for the dog, Ada becomes attached to her furry new friend. Ollie—as she names him—doesn’t have a collar and isn’t well enough to travel, however she knows she must take him to be checked for an identification chip. Is there an owner who is missing him?

Jeremiah Huyard has suffered a terrible loss. His family is grieving the deaths of two loved ones, a tragedy that has Jeremiah roiling in grief. When he sets eyes on the beautiful Ada at his relatives’ funerals, he is unexpectedly distracted, but he is also sure he will never see her again.

Can a misplaced dog and a miracle lead Ada and Jeremiah onto the path that God has laid out for them?
 

My thoughts:

I absolutely adored this novel.  It has all the elements a well written novel should have, characters from past books, new ones who I loved, family dynamics and a familiar setting.

As an animal lover, I fell in love with the injured dog that shows up on the doorstep of Ada Glick, the local veterinarian in her small Amish community.  Ada is caring, kind and one of my favorites in this book.  I also grew fond of Jeremiah Huyard, a young man who is in town for a sad occasion but oddly enough the injured dog helps form a bond between the two of them.

The sweet story of Ada, Jeremiah, a miracle dog will warm your heart and put a huge smile on your face. If you like Amish or Christian fiction, you will want to read this one.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions are my own.

Chasing the Horizon (A Western Light #1) by Mary Connealy

 

Upon uncovering her tyrannical father's plot to commit her to an asylum, Beth Rutledge fabricates a plan of her own--she will rescue her mother, who had already been sent to the asylum by her father, and escape together on a wagon train heading west. Posing as sisters, Beth and her mother join forces with other travelers and hope they can make it to Idaho before the others start asking too many questions.

Wagon train scout Jake Holt senses that the mysterious women in his caravan are running from something. When rumors begin to spread of Pinkerton agents searching relentlessly for wanted criminals who match the description of those on his wagon train, including Beth, she begins to open up to him and he learns something much more sinister is at hand. Can they risk trusting each other with their lives--and their hearts--with danger threatening their every step?

From bestselling author Mary Connealy comes a gripping and adventurous historical novel of survival, sacrifice, and romance on the Oregon Trail

My thoughts:

This is the start of the new series by Ms. Connealy and oh what a great start.  We are introduced to Beth Rutledge and her mother as Beth devises a plan to rescue her mother from an insane asylum. Keep in mind this was in the the1800’s when a husband had more rights than his wife and could easily have her committed if he chose to.

I loved the grit and determination Beth shows to get her mother, herself and a couple of others who tag along to safety.  Traveling with them on the Oregon Trail was equal parts exciting and dangerous. Knowing that there was the rich, powerful Mr. Rutledge looking for them, being careful to hide their identities made me worry for their safety.

The wagon train scout is one of my favorite characters and I loved the care he provided to all, but especially Beth.  I have a keen interest in all the characters and cannot wait to reconnect with them in the next book in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.

Charlie Chaloosy is Often Quite Choosy Brad Mason Review and GIVEAWAY

 

Book Details: Book Title:  Charlie Chaloosy is Often Quite Choosy by Brad Mason, Ed. D. Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 32 pages Genre:  Children's Picture Book Publisher:  Yorkshire Publishing Release date:   January 2024 Formats Available for Review: print-softback (USA), e-book (PDF) Tour dates: Jan 15 to Feb 2 Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone. Book Description: The Charlie Chaloosy book series kicks off with its inaugural offering, Charlie Chaloosy is Often Quite Choosy. ​The first book focuses on Charlie's experiences as he learns lessons, gains new experiences, and grows up in a world that happens to rhyme. The story is told through the use of a playful rhyme scheme and enhanced with beautifully colored illustrations of Charlie tackling new adventures in whimsical detail. The book ends with Charlie providing two pages for the reader to become an author by writing their own story. My thoughts: I don’t normally read books in this genre, but as soon as I saw this one, I knew I wanted to read and share it with a toddler in our family. The illustrations are fantastic, bright, colorful it is sure to catch the eye of children.  The story is delightful and reminded me of myself as a child.  I enjoyed the rhymes myself and am certain it will hold the attention of both the children being read to and the person reding to them. I love the fact that it is a hard back, excellent quality and will last for a long time. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy and have given my honest opinion.  Meet the Author My passion for children's literature stems from 30+ years in education and my re-entry into bedtime stories with the addition of my beautiful grandchildren. I created Charlie as a means for children to learn with Charlie by having a growth mindset when it comes to facing new experiences and learning new things. Children live in a world that is traveling ever faster and my desire is to help them slow down and enjoy childhood through the adventures of Charlie Chaloosy. I hope children have fun with Charlie while engaging their minds through stories that encourage them to read, write, illustrate, and dream a little. Buy the Book: Amazon ~ B&N add to Goodreads ENTER THE GIVEWAY HERE

 

Double Take (Lake City Heros #1) by Lynette Eason

Detective James Cross has been honorably discharged from the Army Criminal Investigation Division due to wounds sustained when an IED blew up near him. Now with the Lake City Police Department, he's rooming with this good buddy and partner, Cole, while he figures out his family dynamics.

Physician Assistant Lainie Jackson is eighteen months out from an attempted murder perpetrated by her ex, which ended when she managed to grab the weapon and shoot him. When he appears to have survived and is back to finish the job he started, Lainie insists it's not possible. But someone keeps trying to kill her, and she keeps seeing his face.

Together, Lainie and James must work together to find out who, exactly, is after her and why he wants her dead. And failure is not an option.

USA Today bestselling author Lynette Eason will leave you breathless with this fast-paced first book in a brand-new series.

My thoughts:

Double Take by Lynette Eason is an engaging, well written, fast paced novel. Filled with suspense, intrigue, mystery and of course some romance, it is a perfect for readers who enjoy those genres.

I liked both main characters, Lainie and James, they were likable throughout the book.  I loved the premise, the twists and turns and trying to figure out who was behind the plot to kill Laine.  I admit to being surprised by the culprit which is another thing that I liked so much about Double Take.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions are my own.

 

Behind Her Smile: The Adventures of a Tall Girl From WVA and Her Life as a Stewardess Beverly Golden Cuevas

 Book Description:

Being raised in Parkersburg, WVA, Janie didn't have big aspirations for her life. Tired of her dead-end job at the phone company her best friend suggested she interview to become a Stewardess. Fearful she would be rejected because of her height; she was shocked when she was accepted. A whole new world opened up to her. Seeing places she had only read about, spending time with politicians, movie stars and professional athletes. One special athlete, a professional basketball player named Wendell Ladner stole her heart with his southern charm. An extraordinary 'connection' with Elvis Presley allowed her the unique experience to spend 'one on one' time with him and remain in touch until his passing. You'll share with her the challenges of marrying someone so different from her upbringing and coping with attempts to try and fit in. Behind Her Smile reveals a devastating event that deeply affected Beverly and made her reexamine her life and what she truly wanted out of it.

BUY THE BOOK:
Amazon ~ B&N ~ BAM
Bookshop.org ~ Bookbub
add to goodreads

Meet the Author:

Beverly Golden Cuevas was born Beverly Jane Golden in Ironton, Ohio in 1945. She spent the first 10 years of her life in Parkersburg, West Virginia with her family. Her father had a job opportunity in Columbus, Ohio in 1955 so away they went. Beverly started working at the age of 14 to contribute to her family finances. She graduated Columbus North High School in 1963. She moved on to work at the Ohio Bell Telephone Company after graduation. In 1965, on the dare of her best friend she went to an interview to be a Stewardess for American Airlines. American hired her and she started her flying career in New York, then commuting from Tulsa, Oklahoma to her Dallas base. She flew both domestic and international. During her career, she never received a bad passenger letter. In 1977, she was 1 of 12 Flight Attendants selected out of 16,000 to participate in a highly coveted special assignment to work at the prestigious American Airlines Golf Classic. Her flying career ended on December 1, 2001 after 35 years. Beverly now lives in Dallas, Texas. She has been married to her wonderful husband Randy for 43 years. She has two sons, Joshua and Kaleb. She is a loving wife and mother, never missing a baseball game or school talent show, in spite of her flying schedule! Mimi is blessed to pass on her knowledge and love of life to her grandchildren Eden, Elijah, Ellie, Logan and Holly.

connect with the author: goodreads 

My thoughts:

This is the first memoir that I have read in quite some time, and I found this one rather enjoyable.  The author certainly doesn't hold anything back when it comes to her career. personal life which is the purpose of this genre.  I admit that this book started off slow, but as it went on for a few chapters, it became more interesting to me.

The author has relationships, establishes friendships with some famous people and some not so famous.  Overall, this is an enjoyable read.

An Amish Christmas Gift by Beth Wiseman

 

From a bestselling and award-winning author who has sold over 2.5 million books comes a love story that poses the question--Is it better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all?

Hannah King and her two children, Mae and Lillian, are facing their first Christmas without their beloved husband and father, who passed only six months ago. Hannah is determined to display strength for her girls, stifling her emotions until she is alone at night crying herself to sleep. But as she tries to hide her grief, she is unaware that her children need her to be emotionally present.Mae is Hannah's oldest daughter. At eighteen, she is deeply in love with a young man in her Amish community. She is working through the grief she feels over the absence of her father, but something about her mother has changed, and the transformation has Mae fearful to make a commitment to John Byler. 

Her mother robotically goes through the motions of daily living, but she is a shell of the woman she used to be. Mae walks away from her relationship with John, knowing her mother's grief must be far worse than her own. She isn't going to let that happen to her.John Byler is in love with Mae, but his admission to her about his feelings causes her to stop seeing him without any explanation. He can only assume that she doesn't love him the way he loves her. Can Hannah see past her own grief and convince her daughter that it is better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all? And is Mae willing to take a chance on love?"

Wiseman is known for her character-driven stories . . . tender tales of love, loss, and redemption. Her fans will devour this short story." ~ Kelly Long, bestselling author for Kensington PublishersFor fans of Beverly Lewis, Amy Clipston, Wanda Brunstetter, and Cindy Woodsmall.

My thoughts:

There is so much packed into this story, as a loving wife and her children are grieving the loss of a husband and father.  It’s always difficult to learn to live your life without your loved ones, however, it must be done but in your own time. In this beautifully written novella by Ms. Wiseman, Hannah needs more time to grieve but it impacts her children bringing more sadness to them.

As the family opens to each other the author put such emotions in her writing, I could imagine their conversations. This is an emotional book where healing and honesty are both needed.  I loved the epilogue and the recipes.  This is a short but beautiful read.  I highly recommend it for the holiday season.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.

This Passing Hour (Amish Memories #2) by Leslie Gould

After the death of her parents, Mennonite Brenna Zimmerman relocates to the Lancaster County farm of her Old Order Amish relatives. There, she befriends Rylan Sanders, a disabled veteran, and commits to rising above her own grief to help him as much as she can. But when things take a turn for the worse, Brenna finds herself at a loss for what to do.

As Brenna struggles, her Mennonite friend Johann Mazur, a soldier in the Ukranian Army, encourages her to distance herself from Rylan. But when she discovers that Rylan's army buddies are withholding secrets that could help with his psychological healing, Brenna is torn between her feelings for Johann and her commitment to help Rylan.

Inspired by the story of her great-great-aunt who served with the Red Cross and supervised German POWs during World War II, Brenna considers her own future and must decide if she has the courage to give up the comforts she craves for the life she truly wants.

Bestselling author Leslie Gould continues her evocative Amish Memories series with a compelling dual-time tale set during World War II and present-day Lancaster County.

My thoughts:

I was thrilled to reconnect with the characters from the first book in this series.  I have been a fan of Ms. Gould for several years, her novels blend Amish, Mennonite dual time lines, everyone and everything in between perfectly.

For some reason. I always tend to get caught up in the past, that’s how well, she manages to bring the storyline altogether. The amount of research, detention to detail, not to mention her storytelling keeps me drawn to her work.

I have loved Brenna Zimmerman from the beginning, have mourned the loss of her parent with her, but have applauded and admired every step she took when an opportunity came her way.  The friendships she has made are incredible and I eagerly look forward to learn what the future holds for her. 

Great storyline, incredible characters are what you will find within the pages of this book.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own. 

To Spark a Match (The Matchmaker (#2) by Jen Turano

 After five unsuccessful Seasons on the marriage mart, Miss Adelaide Duveen has resigned herself to the notion that she's destined to remain a spinster forever--a rather dismal prospect, but one that will allow her to concentrate on her darling cats and books. However, when she inadvertently stumbles upon Mr. Gideon Abbott engaged in a clandestine activity during a dinner party, Adelaide finds herself thrust into a world of intrigue that resembles the plots in the spy novels she devours.

Former intelligence agent Gideon Abbott feels responsible for Adelaide after society threatens to banish her because of the distraction she caused to save his case. Hoping to return the favor, he turns to a good friend--and one of high society's leaders--to take Adelaide in hand and turn her fashionable.

When danger surrounds them and Adelaide finds herself a target of the criminals in Gideon's case, the spark of love between them threatens to be quenched for good--along with their lives.

My thoughts:I laughed throughout this book, which is not at all unusual when I read anything written by Ms. Turano.  From the very beginning we see Adelaide, perhaps a bit more than one might expect to see of a lady of her place in society. That scene had me laughing so hard, getting your bustle caught to where your undergarments are on display was mortifying to say the least.    Adelaide has been through the balls and seasons for quite some time; however, she really needs to find a match or be forever known as a spinster.

What I love about her is the fact that she doesn’t seem to be bothered by any of this.  All she wants are cats and books, and this is why I felt a connection to her.   However, she still needs to make a match, where we are treated to more funny events and even little more than anyone, even Adelaide could imagine.   

In typical Jen Turano style, she takes her readers on a funny ride through 1888 where we meet some loveable and some unsavory characters.  I loved everything about this delightful novel and am looking forward to the next one in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.

Christmas Forest Ambush by Kerry Johnson

A young witness targeted—

and danger in the wilderness



When five-year-old Boone Harrington witnesses his father’s murder, he is placed in social worker Lucy Taylor’s care for the holidays. But after someone chases Lucy’s car off the road in Sumter National Forest, she and Boone turn to ranger Noah Holt for protection from a gang of ruthless gun traffickers. Can Noah keep them alive…especially after discovering Boone unknowingly has something these criminals will kill for? 

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

My thoughts:

The story begins with Lucy’s car getting chased off the road with Boone in the car with her.  The action doesn’t stop there though, it just keeps going until the end.  I was super close to biting my nails, something I never do, but the impulse was there.

I felt so bad for Boone who unknowingly has something the killers desperately want and will silence anyone to get it.  Lucy and Noah are in a race against the clock as they try outmaneuvering and outsmarting anyone who is trying to harm Boone. Anytime a five-year-old is involved in pretty much anything there is going to be some drama and innocent behavior.

This is a non-stop, thrilling suspenseful, well-crafted must read. Ms. Johnson is now one of my must-read authors.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky

 

In 2012, art historian Gwen Monroe travels to England's Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her prestigious grandfather. While at Longdale Manor, she becomes acquainted with David Bradley--the owner's handsome grandson--who is desperate to save the crumbling estate by turning it into a bed-and-breakfast. When Gwen stumbles upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an intricately carved shepherd's staff similar to one in a photo of her parents, she uncovers a connection to the father she never knew.

In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.

Two women a century apart are taken on a journey to healing, faith, and forgiveness in this heartfelt dual-time Edwardian romance from bestselling author Carrie Turansky.

My thoughts:

A beautiful cover with a beautifully written dual time line story for the win.  I loved this book so much, I fell in love with 1912 Charlotte Harper, wanting to read more of her diary.  It was painful but important to the story of 2012 Gwen Morris.

I love the way the author connected the two storylines so seamlessly and effortlessly.  I have read several of this authors work, however this one is my favorite so far.  I became so engaged in this novel in such a short period of time which is why I highly recommend it to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary of this book.  Opinions are my own.

Garden of the Midnights by Hannah Linder

 

The accidents are not a matter of chance. They are deliberate. As English gentleman William Kensley becomes aware of the danger at Rosenleigh Manor, he pleads for the truth of his past from the only man he can trust—until that man is murdered. 
 
As the secrets unfold into scandal, William’s world is tipped into destitution, leaving him penniless and alone. His only comfort is in the constant friendship and love of Isabella Gresham. If he does not have their nonsense at the seashore, their laughter, their reckless adventures, has he anything at all?
 
He should have known that would be ripped from him too. When a hidden foe arises from their acquaintances and imperils Isabella’s life, William may be the only one willing to risk his life to rescue her. But even if he frees Isabella from her captors, will he still have to forsake her heart? 

Some sacrifice everything for love. Others sacrifice love for everything else. In this haunting tale of rigid social prejudices and heart-aching regrets, the greatest decision of their life will be determined in the garden of the midnights. 

My thoughts:

Ms. Linder is a new to me author so I wasn’t sure what to expect.  My expectations were exceeded in this beautifully written novel. My heart was broken for William, his was such a sad story, I desperately wanted him to have a peaceful life filled with love and belonging.

Isabelle is another character I found myself rooting for.  I appreciated how the author pulled me into the characters’ lives making me genuinely concerned for their happiness and well-being. I know that I will read more of her work and urge other readers to do the same.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.

Snowbound Escape (Pacific Northwest K-9 Unit #8) by Dana Mentink

 To rescue a witness… this K-9 team must face a killer and a storm. After months tracking a colleague falsely accused of a double homicide, officer Tanner Ford and his K-9 partner finally locate crime tech Mara Gilmore—but the real murderer is closing in. Now they must run into a frozen wilderness to survive. Evading the killer is the only way for Mara to clear her name. But will the harsh winter conditions cover their tracks…or bury them forever?

My thoughts:

The action never stops in this fast-paced suspense novel.  Ms. Mentink is a masterful storyteller in this genre keeping me on the edge of my seat as Tanner Ford and his K-9 partner locate Mara Gilmore.

They are on the run to save their lives as a murderer is closing in on them.  They are wet, cold, tired, and hungry, but they must keep their wits about them to stay alive. I was exhausted just reading what they went through to avoid becoming the next victims of the killer. There is heart pounding excitement throughout this book.

If you like a well written, fast paced storyline, you will love this one.  Kudos to the author for penning another wonderful book that I couldn’t put down.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions are my own.

Marshaling Her Heart (Wyoming Sunrise #3) by Mary Connealy

 

Becky Pruitt has always prided herself on knowing everything that's happening on her successful ranch, which makes her foreman Nate Paxton's admission to her quite a surprise. With the notorious Deadeye Gang on the loose, Nate--a former U.S. Marshal--believes that Becky's ranch might be the best spot for a group of Marshals to use as a base and hideout.

The timing couldn't be more crucial for the growing town of Pine Valley, and Becky feels a commitment to help. But after escaping the grasp of her harsh father, she's never liked giving up control--of her life or her ranch. Again and again, Nate's proven himself to her and she soon realizes that if there's anyone she can trust with her ranch--and her heart--it might be him. But the outlaws won't go quietly, and as danger draws ever nearer, Becky and Nate are faced with impossible choices that will test their growing bond.

This rousing conclusion to Mary Connealy's Wyoming Sunrise series is an exhilarating blend of humor, romance, and adventure.

My thoughts:

I loved this book so much; I have loved this entire series.  Ms. Connealy crafts characters who I absolutely adore.  Especially her female characters.  This book is full of strong women, there’s not a shrinking violet to be found between the pages.

The series concludes perfectly with Becky  when the villain is revealed.  If you have read the first two books in the series, which I highly recommend, you will know that Becky and her friends have been fighting since the first book with some nefarious people.  As sorry as I am to see the series end, it was a great ending.

I loved the uplifting friendship between the three women, the way the town pulled together and yes, the food that Clint continued to prepare in his diner.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.

An Unusual Amish Match (Indiana Amish Market #3) by Vanetta Chapman

 

He’s too serious. She’s too flighty.

But together, they might be perfect…

With his crops failing, Amish bachelor Ethan King already has enough problems. He certainly doesn’t need pretty Ada Yoder—and her sunny exuberance or her penchant for jumping from job to job—adding to his troubles. But when a family emergency requires them to work together, they’ll discover that the biggest problem isn’t their differences…it’s their feelings for each other.

My thoughts:

 

Ada has been my favorite character in this series and I am so glad we get her story. Don’t get me wrong, all of the characters and their storylines have been wonderful, heartwarming and so good, but they are not as endearing to me as Ada has been.

Ada is unlike her sisters, truthfully, she is different than most Amish girls her age.  Cooking, sewing, anything domestic holds no interest for her.  Animals, incessant talking and turning common phrases around to where some people have no clue what she means is much more to her liking.

Ethan is much more settled, responsible, and mature as he must be given his situation.  When he works with Ada the sparks fly and not in a good way, they have a different work ethic, differing views and yet, there is just something that he finds irresistible about her.  Her love of animals, protecting them, adopting them made her special to me, she has always been a good, decent person, she just had to find what makes her happy.

Overall, I thought this was a charming, delightful, written book.  I love how this series is suitable for readers of all ages which is why I highly recommend it. 

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.

Good Taste by Caroline Scott

 

With delectable prose, a sharp heroine ahead of her time, and an adventure across the English countryside in search of great food,  Good Taste  is the perfect historical novel for fans of  Dear Mrs. Bird  and  The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society . You can tell a lot about a person from what they like to eat… England in 1932 is in the grip of the Great Depression. Author of a much-loved but not very successful biography, Stella Douglas is a bit depressed herself. When she’s summoned to see her editor in London, she dreads being told her writing career is over before it’s even started. But much to her surprise, she finds she is being commissioned to write a history of food in England and how the English like to eat. It’s to be quintessentially English and will remind English housewives of the old ways, and English men of the glory of their country. The publishers hope such a book will lift the spirits of the nation. The only problem is—all English food is actually quite terrible (and anything good is from elsewhere).

  So Stella sets about inviting recipes from all corners of England, in the hope of discovering a hidden culinary gem. But what she discovers is oatcakes and gravy and lots and lots of potatoes.  Longing for something more thrilling, she heads off to speak to the nation’s housewives. But when her car breaks down and the dashing and charismatic antiques dealer Freddie springs to her rescue, she is led in a very different direction... Full of wit, life, and—against all odds—delicious food,  Good Taste  is a story of discovery and one woman’s desire to make her own way as a modern woman.

My thoughts:

This is an enjoyable novel, with a wonderful premise and Stella, the main character. It’s interesting how her career path changed as she’s tasked with writing the history of food in England and how the English eat. The story is set in 1932, which I found fascinating because I love Historical novels.  Especially ones like this peppered with witty dialogue, delightful characters, and the time period.

I am a picky eater, so not a foodie, but I liked learning about the different foods with the different recipes.  It isn’t all fun and games for Stella as she researches and tastes local dishes, not at all, she has some personal losses to deal with as well.

Overall, I though this was well written, interesting an well worth the read.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.

Christmas at Corgi Cove by Annie England Noblin

If you’re looking for the perfect feel-good Christmas novel, then look no further than Annie England Noblin’s newest novel. This book will absolutely delight any reader looking for a sweet  and  sassy read—and not to mention enchant the fans of Annie’s signature canine characters. Perfect for fans of Jill Shalvis, Sarah Morgan, Lori Wilde, and Susan Mallery. Rosie Reynolds had come to lakeside Corgi Cove as a lost, lonely girl abandoned by her own mother, but there she discovered a true place to call home. She loves her Corgis, Bonnie and Clyde; loves the lakeside life; and loves her aunt and uncle most of all. But when she discovers their struggling inn is about to be bought out by some big city chain, she hatches a to win a contest naming theirs the best Christmas-themed inn in the USA. It's a long shot, but she knows if the whole town pulls together that they can do it. But she didn’t count on Everett St Claire, who emerged from his gleaming, black BMW, straightening his tie and asking himself how did a big-city guy like him find himself in a speck on the map like Corgi Cove? And how fast could he get back to the city? 

After all, it couldn’t be that difficult to convince one elderly couple to take the money to retire. He didn’t count on getting sucked into life on the lake. Sure, the people might be…eccentric, and Rosie might seem like a pain in the backside, but there is something alluring about the place. And with the holidays nearing, and the deadline looming, Rosie and Everett are about to discover the magic of a Christmas at Corgi Cove.

My thoughts:

I could not resist this cover.  Certainly not when I had the opportunity to read it, so I gladly accepted it. This is a fairly quick read for me as I got caught up in the storyline. Life on a lake sounds good to me and I could easily imagine spending time there, especially with the characters in this book. 

This is a new to me author and I look forward to reading more of her work.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary of this book.  Opinions are my own.
 

Midnight at the Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan

 

Christmas comes early—far too early—to McCredie’s little Old Town bookshop in Edinburgh. It’s summer, but an American production company has decided that McCredie’s is the perfect location to film a very cheesy Christmas movie. After all, who can resist the charmingly narrow historic street with its Victorian grey stone buildings and warmly lit shop windows?

Carmen Hogan, the bookshop’s manager, is amused and a bit horrified by the goings-on, but the money the studio is paying is too good to pass up. She uses the little windfall from filming to create new displays and fend off a buyout offer from an obnoxious millionaire who wants to turn McCredie’s into a souvenir shop selling kilts made in China and plastic Nessies. Still reeling slightly from a breakup, Carmen’s not particularly looking forward to the holidays. But just as snow begins to fall and the lights of Christmas blink on, all sorts of lovely new possibilities present themselves…for McCredie’s bookstore, and for Carmen herself.

My thoughts:

This is the first book that I have had the pleasure of reading by this author, and I absolutely loved it.  I fell in love with the beautiful cover, then I met the characters and loved them as well.

 I have always thought that Christmas seems to come earlier every year, but it really does come far too early to McCredie's little Old Town bookshop in Edinburgh.  What follows is a fun, enjoyable story. This is such a delightful read.  

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.

Against the Wind (Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing) by Amanda Cabot

Doctor-in-training Louisa Vaughn has no intention of remaining in Sweetwater Crossing. She's just there for a few days to help a friend. But she can't abandon the injured man she finds at the side of the road. Until his broken leg heals, she'll serve as the town's doctor and midwife. She may not be fully qualified yet, but surely she's better than nothing.

Josh Porter's plans to win his grandfather's challenge and fulfill his father's final wish to gain full control of the family business hit a roadblock when he breaks his leg. But his enforced stay in Sweetwater Crossing gives him new ideas about the expansion of the company into new territory--ideas Louisa could help turn into reality.

If only the town were more accepting of Louisa's talents! Someone is determined to convince her to abandon her dream of healing others. Can Josh help her uncover the person behind the threats before it's too late? And is there any future for them together when neither of them plans to stay?

My thoughts:

I love this series so far; this second book was well worth the wait.  It was good to revisit Sweetwater Creek, reconnect with some characters and meet new ones. Doctor in training, Louisa Vaughn meets Josh Porter in a rather unique but timely manner, she is visiting town for a short time, he has been injured when she finds him at the side of the road.

They form a bond as she has set his broken leg, offers as much medical advice as she can in helping him recover.  Unfortunately, as time goes by, the towns people have decided they do not want or trust a woman doctor. It was a different time and I am so happy that we live in a time when gender does not play a role in a person’s decision to choose their path in life and is judged on their abilities to perform in their chosen profession.

Both Josh and Louisa are fantastic characters, strong, hardworking, and truly likable. I have been a fan of this authors work and loved this book.  Highly recommend.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.  Opinions are my own.