In Search of a Prince by Toni Shiloh

Brielle Adebayo is fully content teaching at a New York City public school and taking annual summer vacations with her mother to Martha's Vineyard. But everything changes when her mom drops the mother of all bombshells--Brielle is a princess in the kingdom of Ọlọrọ Ilé, Africa, and she must immediately assume her royal position, since the health of her grandfather, King Tiwa Jimoh Adebayo, is failing.

Distraught by her mother's betrayal, Brielle is further left spinning when the Ọlọrọ Ilé Royal Council brings up an old edict that states she must marry before assuming the throne or the crown will be passed to another. Uncertain who to choose from the council's list of bachelors, she struggles with the decision along with the weight of her new role in a new country. With her world totally shaken, she must take a chance on love and brave the perils a wrong decision may bring.
 

My thoughts:

The beautiful cover caught my eye, then once I opened the book, the story caught and held my attention from beginning to end. It was easy to immerse myself in the story of Brielle, a young woman living and working in New York, but, once her mother told her she is a Princess, time just flew by as I followed her on a journey that one can only dream about.

I loved how level-headed Brielle is and she isn't willing to make fast decisions that will alter her future, the love between her and her grandfather is beautiful and one of my favorite aspects in the novel. The secondary cast of characters are well- developed and add different layers to this beautifully crafted novel. Beautiful settings and palace intrigue added to my overall enjoyment of the book.

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

A Glitter of Gold (Georgia Goast Romance #2) by Liz Johnson

Book Description

When pirate wreck tour guide Anne Norris finds evidence of an undiscovered shipwreck, she seeks the help of museum director Carter Hale to uncover the truth and treasure that could save her business. 

But can she trust him with her secrets and her heart?

Hardcover, 368 pages
Published August 6th 2019 by Fleming H. Revell Company (first published August 2019)

My thoughts:

A Glitter of Gold is a delightful and intriguing read with a storyline that moves at a great pace.  I was super excited when the author revealed the existence of an old diary and how deftly the two stories were interwoven.  I have to admit to sometimes favoring one time period to another when reading novels that go between different times in history but not this time!  I'm not normally a fan of pirates or sunken treasure or at least I wasn't until I read this book.

The characters were genuinely likable, the romance was gradual and sweet.  The hunt for the shipwreck was interesting and enjoyable to read which is why I think this would be the perfect choice for a beach read.  I have only read a few books by Liz Johnson but after reading her latest release, I think it's time I read more of her writing.

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

As the Light Fades by Catherine West

Book Description

Sometimes we’re placed in the strangest of circumstances for the most important reasons.

After her carefully constructed life crumbles, Liz Carlisle finds herself back on Nantucket, picking up the pieces. With the family estate under renovations, the solitude she craves seems out of reach.

Matthew Stone intends to steer clear of his new tenant. She’s carrying a load of baggage, but as long as she pays the rent, he’ll let her be. He’s got enough to deal with caring for his wayward niece, Mia.

Liz doesn’t have time for teenagers and her track record with men is abysmal, but an unlikely friendship forms between the three. 

When her former boyfriend is charged with assault, Liz is called to testify against him. But he knows the darkest secrets of her life—secrets she’d hoped to keep buried forever, and he’s ready to reveal them. Telling the truth is the right thing to do, but it may cost her everything she’s worked so hard for, and all she’s come to love.

***NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR***
As the Light Fades is published as a standalone novel, but features some characters from one of Catherine's earlier novels, The Things We Knew, published in 2016 by Thomas Nelson.

Paperback

Expected publication: September 10th 2019 by KDP

Buy a copy on Amazon 

My thoughts:

I expect to be fully engrossed in any novel penned by Ms. West so I will just let you know, this one exceeded my expectations.  Yes, it really is that good and the author is a masterful storyteller!  Set in Nantucket, we reconnect with the Carlisle family, but let me perfectly clear, this is a standalone novel  so if you haven't had the opportunity to read the novel, The Things We Knew, I honestly don't think it will take away from your enjoyment of this book.

Ms. West tackles some pretty heavy topics in this heartrending story, important topics that may have touched our families or friends but they are so realistically written I felt like I was  involved in their lives and I wanted the best for them.  From Drake, the artistic patriarch who suffers from Alzheimer's  to the young troubled teen, Mia who has a lot to overcome in her life, there are just so many well defined and wonderful characters to love. Give me a story with strong family dynamics such as this one and I will be a very happy reader.
There some humorous parts that put a smile on my face making me love this book so very much.

Overall, As the Light Fades is a must read in my opinion which is why I highly recommend it.  The characters are ones that you won't soon forget and if you are like me, you'll hope there will another book with some of the same characters.

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

Claiming the Drakos Heir by Jennifer Faye review + Giveaway

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Claiming the Drakos Heir
(Greek Island Brides #2)
By Jennifer Faye
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 256 Pages
June 1st 2019 by Harlequin Romance

The rebel bachelor is back…

To claim her baby!

In this Greek Island Brides story, pregnant surrogate Popi Costas is faced with raising her late sister’s child alone, until the baby’s wealthy uncle arrives to take charge! Apollo Drakos is distractingly handsome, but Popi won’t let that stop her from fighting to keep the baby. Yet as she gets to know the man behind the wild card reputation, Popi’s reconsidering welcoming Apollo into her new little family…

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My thoughts:

Claiming the Drakos Heir is the second book in the Greek Island Brides series by Jennifer Faye but it could easily be read as a standalone.  I didn't read the first book but that certainly did not pose a problem for me as there is enough of the backstory to know who Popi Costas and Apollo Drakos are and why they both want to raise their deceased siblings baby.

I loved the setting of the Greek Island and the excitement of the upcoming wedding that was about to take place.  The author describes it so well I felt like I was there enjoying the beauty with the wedding party.  I think it's safe to say that I enjoyed it much more than Popi  who is close to having a baby and no it's isn't her wedding but yes she is a surrogate for her sister,  It isn't as complicated as it sounds. it's actually a loving gesture she made.  Popi was instantly likable although I viewed Apollo negatively at first.  After a couple of chapters I started to like Apollo as much as I liked Popi and really wanted them to live their best possible lives.

The arrival of a new baby is always exciting even if there are some challenges to be met such as who will raise baby, Seb and where he will live.  I absolutely loved this sweet story and look forward to reading the next book in the series to find out who will be the next bride on the Greek Island. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to write a positive review.

                                                                       FREEBIE

           

                                    Go to Jennifer's Page and order your bookmark

The Greek Island Brides Series

Finding love that lasts to infinity!

All marriages that take place on renowned wedding destination Infinity Island are guaranteed to last forever!

And the picturesque Greek island is about to weave its magic for friends Lea, Popi and Stasia. They dream of finding their own happy-ever-afters... And they’re about to meet three billionaires who will sweep them off their feet—and down the aisle!

Follow Lea’s journey from surprise pregnancy to dream proposal in...

Book #1 - Carrying the Greek Tycoon’s Baby

From one night…

To nine months!

In this Greek Island Brides story, for jaded tycoon Xander Marinakos, renowned wedding destination Infinity Island is just another opportunity to expand his empire. Until he’s captivated by its beautiful owner, Lea Romes… When their one night together has unexpected consequences, Xander must negotiate the deal of a lifetime, and put his guarded heart on the table to convince independent Lea they can be a family…for infinity!

Order Now 

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And coming September 2019…

Book #3 - Wearing the Greek Millionaire's Ring

A convenient engagement…

An inconvenient attraction!

In this Greek Island Brides story, widow Stasia Marinakos is learning to enjoy life again aboard a Mediterranean cruise. Her chemistry with gorgeous Greek tycoon Roberto Carrass is a pleasant surprise—until she’s mistaken for his fiancée! Nevertheless, the guarded bachelor asks Stasia to continue the charade to stop his family from matchmaking. As their attraction grows, their fake romance feels ever more real…but what will happen when the vacation ends?

                                                                               

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                                         About the Author

                                                         

Award-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances with rugged cowboys, sexy billionaires and enchanting royalty. Internationally published with books translated into nine languages. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards.

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                                Tour Giveaway

1 winner will receive a copy of Carrying the Greek Tycoon's Baby (print if US, ebook if INT) and a $25 Amazon eGift Card 

Open internationally

Ends June 12, 2019

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Sing a New Song by Candee Fick

Book Description:

The pampered diva is about to meet her match.

Songbird Gloria Houghton has always needed to be the center of attention, but the spotlight has shifted. Seeking fame and a fresh start, she finds a new stage in Branson, Missouri…only to risk being replaced by a manipulative rival. If Gloria can’t be the star, who is she?

Jack-of-all-trades Nick Sherwood is just one leaf on a vast family tree that includes a restaurant chef, hotel owners, and even the headline act at a family-owned theater. He’s seen how fame can blind a person with jealousy and is more than content to stay in the background thank you very much. If only he wasn’t so fascinated--and irritated--by the newest addition to the staff.

After a disaster of a first impression and financial difficulties land Gloria in the humblest of jobs—with Nick as her boss—it might be time for her to learn to sing a new song.

If you like strong families, country music, and redeemed villains, then you’ll love this next chapter in The Wardrobe series by Candee Fick.

My thoughts:

I had been waiting for Gloria's story for so long.  She's been the one character throughout the Wardrobe series who annoyed me so much.  Is it terrible that I wanted her to get her comeuppance?  Well of course it is, but I'm only human and she's fictional so maybe it's not so bad after all.

Something happened to me while reading this book and I owe it all to the writing of Ms. Fick.  You see, I actually started to like Gloria and I thought her move to Branson, Missouri was just the reality check she needed to become the humble young woman who she became.  She had to perform menial tasks before rehearsing and performing in the family-owned theater where she worked.  I have to admit to respecting her for doing what she needed to do in order to survive and realize her dreams.

This series has focused on family and friends from the very beginning but in this one I liked the family dynamic more than I thought I would.  The Sherwood family are hardworking and down to earth. I loved them all but have to say Nick is my favorite.  He's kind, caring, funny and the true friend Gloria needs as she makes a fresh start in Branson.

Although this is the third book in the series I think it can easily be read as a standalone and if you like sweet clean reads I recommend this one.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to write 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.