Monday, January 31, 2022

MRS. WITHERSPOON GOES TO WAR by Mary Davis, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

What an interesting and exciting adventure. Mrs. Peg Witherspoon is a war widow who has been a pilot for a very long time. She uses her expertise to become a WASP during WWII. This story showcases the jobs WASPs did, from ferrying planes to being a mechanic and beyond.

I liked the way the female characters bolstered each other and showed their patriotism. The book also shed light on the way the WASPs were treated by their male counterparts, sometimes not so well. The romance with Major Howie Berg was slow and steady since neither wanted to jeopardize their jobs. And through it all, Peg returns to her faith since it faltered since the death of her husband.

Some highlights were when the ladies scavenged a plane from the graveyard of abandoned airplanes. And danger had me on the edge of my seat more than once.

This is a great addition to the Heroines of WWII series. I recommend this enjoyable book.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*5 stars and a solid faith thread 
 

BackCover Blurb:
A WASP Goes Above the Call of Duty to Free Captive American Soldiers

Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes; the heroines of WWII. Peggy Witherspoon, a widow, mother, and pilot flying for the Women’s Airforce Service in 1944 clashes with her new reporting officer. Army Air Corp Major Howie Berg was injured in combat and is now stationed at Bolling Field in Washington D.C. Most of Peggy’s jobs are safe, predictable, and she can be home each night with her three daughters; until a cargo run to Cuba alerts her to American soldiers being held captive there, despite Cuba being an ally

Will Peggy go against orders to help the men? Even risk her own life? Don’t miss this and other stories about Heroines of WWII.
The Cryptographer’s Dilemma by Johnnie Alexander
Picture of Hope by Liz Tolsma
Saving Mrs. Roosevelt by Candice Sue Patterson

Barbour Publishing, Jan 31, 2022
Available in digital ebook and paperback, and audioCD:
Buy MRS. WITHERSPOON GOES TO WAR at Amazon, Christianbook.com, and Baker Book House

TO TREASURE AN HEIRESS by Roseanna M. White, Reviewed by Winnie, Rebecca, and Paula

To Treasure an Heiress (The Secrets of the Isles Book #2)

WINNIE'S REVIEW
What a delight it was to return to the Isles of Scilly in To Treasure an Heiress, the second book in Roseanna M. White’s newest series, The Secrets of the Isles. White never fails to draw me quickly into her stories and keep me engaged and turning pages. I now have a new favorite hero—Lord Theodore Sheridan, who kept me laughing with his sense of humor, easy-going good nature, and charming ways. He’s the perfect foil for Beth Tremayne, the adventurous, courageous, family-loving heroine. I loved the way he kept trying to break through her defenses, and the way their relationship changed and grew. White is master at creating colorful, realistic, engaging characters and building fascinating stories around them.
 
“Sheridan had never had a rival. It would keep life interesting. Perhaps he should invest in one sometime, just for the experience.”
 
“If God meant me to live in the desert, He wouldn’t have made me an Englishman.”
 
With a perfect blend of history, intrigue, suspense, romance, and inspiration, this book was highly entertaining and left me with an intense desire to visit the Isles of Scilly. I’m looking forward to the next tale in the series. 
 *4.5 stars I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishing. All opinions are my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
I love the stories that Roseanna White pens. Her cast of characters takes center stage in the story of the other Elizabeth who was introduced in book one. Beth is in search of pirate treasure on one of the small islands of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall. She has found clues to a legend of an ancestor and hopes that it more than a tall tale. Lord Theodore Sheridan, a hobby archeologist, is in the Islands with some friends. Theo is a favorite character who is totally taken with Beth. His internal thoughts are hilarious and break through to be spoken at an inopportune time. Another favorite is his valet Ainsley who tries to keep his master on the straight and narrow, dispensing advice and Godly wisdom. The banter is priceless.
 
I like the way Theo and his friends interact. They include everyone to puzzle out the mystery, females and servants alike. It was as if I were in the Library with them.
 
This is a story with a search for pirate treasure but also a realization that treasure takes many forms. The care that Beth takes in searching out the handed-down tales shows that there is treasure in remembering family and preserving the old stories.
 
There are so many things in this book: adventure, danger, villany, and lessons in humility, redemption, forgiveness and Godly living. Another sure winner and a top pick of the year.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* Beyond 5 stars and a clear faith thread

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
. . .. "you're an heiress of the only thing that matters - an amazing family".
"And clearly the blow had knocked something loose in his head for him to have spouted that nonsense yesterday. What had he meant he wasn't going to propose? Why would he have? They barely knew each other." Fumbly, bumbly Lord Theodore Sheridan rarely made any sense, and in all honesty Beth Tremayne didn't expect him to, for she barely tolerated the man. But after rising to Beth's defense against a nefarious member of the Scofield family who was obviously trying to steal her treasure, she began sneaking peeks at the nerdy, geeky, titled explorer in a slightly different light. Just a little, mind you, just a little.
 
She was a dream come true, this island girl of his heart. Beth Tremayne loved adventure and digging in the dirt as much as he did; she just didn't like him... always muttering something about "stealing her box". He had paid for that box, thank you very much. But the more time they spent together trying to find hidden treasure, the more convinced Sheridan becomes that he has already found it.
 
Readers will absolutely adore returning to the Isles of Scilly, where they will happily reunite with beloved characters from the first installment in the series, while enjoying the opportunity to explore brand new relationships. The banter between Beth and Theo is totally worth the read, but don't be surprised at how much affection develops for some of the other members of this little island family.
"She actually liked him. She laughed in all the right places . . .  He caught her looking at him at odd moments. . . He'd convince her." Our dear Theo. Always the optimist!!!
*I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own. I also purchased a copy.

BackCover Blurb:
1906
Beth Tremayne has always been drawn to adventure. During her childhood, she fed that desire by exploring every inch of the Isles of Scilly. Now, after stumbling across an old collection of letters and a map buried on her family's property, she's found more adventure than she ever anticipated in the hunt for pirate treasure. But in order to discover where the clues lead, she must search alongside Lord Sheridan, a man she finds insufferable.

Sheridan has spent years pursuing whatever archaeological interests pique his imagination. And when he discovers that Beth's search connects with one of his far-removed pirate ancestors, he can't help getting involved. Plus, he finds her irresistible, even though she insists he stole a prized possession of hers.

As they work together following different clues and drawing closer to danger, they start to piece together a story of tragic love and piratical adventure. But which treasure will bring the greatest surprise--the one they find in each other or the one just out of their reach?
 
Bethany House Publishing, January, 2022
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy To Treasure an Heiress at Amazon, Christianbook .com, and Baker Book House
 
 

Sunday, January 30, 2022

THE LONDON HOUSE by Katherine Reay, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

"No one in my family was ever going to forgive or forget what Caro had done - what they thought she had done. So to mitigate the damage, they absorbed it."

Family secrets. Such powerful intangibles. When Caroline Payne receives a call from a former college friend, Mat Hammond, about one of theirs, her life and the lives of her living family members become completely upended. So many questions. So few answers . . . or were they just cleverly, and perhaps even lovingly hidden for a different generation to discover, tucked inconspicuously between the lines. It was going to take some painstaking research into the life of her grandmother's twin sister, and the London House was a good place, the only place, for Caroline to begin. Would the truth present itself or be forever buried deep within the annuls of time.

" And someday . . . the truth would come out, and that would be . . .  more than enough."

Because this book was so beautifully written, I wanted to love it, instead I grew to appreciate it. After initially capturing my attention, much like the characters themselves, I became frustrated with the endless crumbs of information that led seemingly towards the same conclusions. The process however, was a different thing altogether, it was utterly and completely transforming, much like the truth itself.

A rather remarkable piece of general fiction.

*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars

SEE KIM'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb
Uncovering a dark family secret sends one woman through the history of Britain’s World War II spy network and glamorous 1930s Paris to save her family’s reputation.

Caroline Payne thinks it’s just another day of work until she receives a call from Mat Hammond, an old college friend and historian. But pleasantries are cut short. Mat has uncovered a scandalous secret kept buried for decades: In World War II, Caroline’s British great-aunt betrayed family and country to marry her German lover.

Determined to find answers and save her family’s reputation, Caroline flies to her family’s ancestral home in London. She and Mat discover diaries and letters that reveal her grandmother and great-aunt were known as the “Waite sisters.” Popular and witty, they came of age during the interwar years, a time of peace and luxury filled with dances, jazz clubs, and romance. The buoyant tone of the correspondence soon yields to sadder revelations as the sisters grow apart, and one leaves home for the glittering fashion scene of Paris, despite rumblings of a coming world war.

Each letter brings more questions. Was Caroline’s great-aunt actually a traitor and Nazi collaborator, or is there a more complex truth buried in the past? Together, Caroline and Mat uncover stories of spies and secrets, love and heartbreak, and the events of one fateful evening in 1941 that changed everything.

In this rich historical novel from award-winning author Katherine Reay, a young woman is tasked with writing the next chapter of her family’s story. But Caroline must choose whether to embrace a love of her own and proceed with caution if her family’s decades-old wounds are to heal without tearing them even further apart.

Harper Muse Publishing, November 2021
Available in digital ebook, paperback, library binding, and audiobook:
Buy The London House at Amazon

 

Saturday, January 29, 2022

THE MERCHANT AND THE ROGUE by Sarah M. Eden, Reviewed by Kim

 

I absolutely love this series by Sarah Eden! All the books center around a group called the Dread Penny Society. This group of authors, who all write Penny Dreadfuls, also fight for the rights of the less fortunate. Each story focuses on a different member of the group, so they can be read as stand-alones, but they are all so good that I would start at the beginning and read all three.

This story was a bit different from the first two in that Brogan sort of went “undercover,” so the members of the society did not play as prominent of a role. While I missed that interaction, I still really enjoyed this story. Brogan and Vera are both great characters and I loved their story. I also really enjoyed the added additions of the Penny Dreadfuls throughout the story.
I actually listened to this and the narrator is fabulous, so I highly recommend the audiobook. I am really hoping Ms. Eden continues this series! I’d love to read Stone’s story next!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. This is a clean read.

BackCover Blurb:
London, 1865
Vera Sorokina loves reading the Penny Dreadfuls and immersing herself in tales of adventure, mystery, and romance. Her own days are filled with the often mundane work of running the book and print shop she owns with her father. The shop offers her the freedom and income to employ and protect the poverty-stricken Londoners she's come to care about, and it gives her father something to do other than long for their hometown of St. Petersburg. She is grateful for the stability in their lives, but she often feels lonely.

Brogan Donnelly was born and raised in Ireland, but has lived in London for several years, where he's built a career as a Penny Dreadful writer. He has dedicated himself to the plight of the poor with the help of his sister. His membership in the secretive Dread Penny Society allows him to feel he isn't entirely wasting his life, yet he feels dissatisfied. With no one to share his life with but his sister, he fears London will never truly feel like home.

Brogan and Vera's paths cross, and the attraction is both immediate and ill-advised. Vera knows from past experience that writers are never to be trusted, and Brogan has reason to suspect not everything at her print shop is aboveboard. When the growing criminal enterprise run by the elusive and violent Mastiff begins targeting their area of London, Brogan and Vera must work together to protect the community they've both grown to love. But that means they'll need to learn to trust each other with dangerous secrets that have followed both of them from their home countries.
 
Shadow Mountain Publishing, August, 2021
Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Thursday, January 27, 2022

TRUTH IS A WHISPER by Mandi Blake, Reviewed by Kim


Truth is a Whisper by Mandi Blake is an awesome start to this new series. I really loved everything about this sweet story! The main characters are wonderful and the feeling of family on the ranch makes me want a story about each and every character!

I loved Ava and Jameson and thought they were perfect for each other. Their romance was really sweet. The secondary characters really added to the story and we’re well developed. There were also a few twists that I didn’t see coming which really added to the story. I loved how faith was woven seamlessly throughout this story with forgiveness and redemption being strong themes.



I am really looking forward to the next story in this series, especially after reading the bonus epilogue!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is medium. 

 

BackCover Blurb:
They both want the truth, but are they willing to pay the price?

Ava Collins is more than ready to say goodbye to the breakneck pace of the city, and an invitation to her grandfather’s ranch is exactly what she needs. Finding out her former flame is running the ranch, on the other hand, was entirely unexpected. How can she put aside her memories of that whirlwind summer when she has to work beside the handsome cowboy every day?

Jameson Ford was grateful to be offered the new foreman job at Wolf Creek Ranch. He's eager to prove himself, but quickly distracted by the reappearance of his first love, who also happens to be his boss's granddaughter. It’s been years since they promised each other forever, and neither of them know how to pick up where they left off or if they should forget it ever happened.

Allied by their love of the ranch, Jameson and Ava have to work together, despite the lingering feelings between them. When Ava uncovers secrets about her family, she doesn’t know if she can trust anyone. Most of all, can she learn to trust her heart on her way to discovering the truth?

Truth is a Whisper is the first book in the Christian romance Wolf Creek Ranch series.

January 2022. Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon

 

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

HER DARLING MR. DAY by Grace Hitchcock, Reviewed by Rebecca and Paula

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"She was the daughter of Florian Wingfield. She shouldn't have to resort to chasing."

Except that chasing was exactly what she was doing, and Flora Wingfield had brought her entire family along to witness her greatest expectation; Lord help her if turned out to be an epic disaster, for her reputation would surely be ruined. After all, Theodore Day had already squandered away plenty of time being best "friends", now she just needed him to take their relationship to the next level. My goodness, she had traveled all the way from New York to New Orleans with her plans to turn Teddy into "her darling Mr. Day" . . . by the end of the summer. There wasn't much time.

Flora's arrival was providential! Theodore Day was dreadfully weary of politely declining the hordes of women constantly chasing him around; batting their eyes, inviting him to parties, stealing away precious moments that he needed to be spending on winning the right to head up his father's riverboat business. What did it matter if he was one of the city's most eligible bachelors, he had been set aside twice already after giving his heart away . . . never again . . . at least for a long, long time. Thankfully he could spend hours with Flora, and her amazing interior designs, without any risk of romantic entanglements . . . couldn't he?

What a delicious euphony of coy, clever conversations; full of mischief and misunderstandings, leaving a trail of true desires buried underneath voluminous swaths of fashionable brocade. As Flora and Teddy battle to gain trust in matters of the heart (reader beware, it's quite an epic journey, and rather entertaining!) they almost miss the fact that they have never been alone, not really, for God has claimed them as His own, with an admonition to; "Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by name; thou art mine." Belonging. "Always and forever".  
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“A dream that is worth anything is worth waiting for to come true.” Flora Wingfield has had a dream to be an independent woman. It is attainable with the wealth her father is willing to bestow on her upon her marriage. But there is another dream she longs to fulfill: to make Theodore Day her groom.

Teddy is one of the bachelors who lost out in the contest to wed Willow Dupre, a close friend of Flora. He is not looking to receive yet another broken heart. He is putting all his efforts into the family business of building luxury river boats.

Eldest of five daughters, Flora has an ultimatum from her father: wed before the summer is done.

Jealousy, competition, danger and shenanigans ensue to make this a hilarious story of Gilded Age society in the hot summer of the South. Through it all Teddy is the perfect gentleman who gets more than he bargained for and learns where to put his priorities. The faith thread was underlying and brought out some worthy lessons.

I thoroughly enjoyed this second book in American Royalty series. The antics of Flora and her sisters were so much fun, as were the flock of damsels chasing after Teddy.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
5 stars and an underlying faith thread.

BackCover Blurb:
New Orleans' most eligible bachelor insists he's not on the market . . . but he couldn't be more wrong.

Jilted in front of all New York, Theodore Day decides to lose himself in his family's luxury riverboat business in New Orleans and compete against his brother to become the next company head. The brother with the most sales by summer's end will win the position. Thanks to Theodore's fame as a suitor in a socialite's outlandish competition to find a husband, he has become very desirable royalty in Southern society and thus has an advantage.

It took Flora Wingfield's best work to convince her family to summer in New Orleans, but with Teddy Day a bachelor once again, she's leaving nothing to chance. Desperate to stand out from all the clamoring belles, Flora attempts a bold move that goes completely awry, only to find it's her interior design skills that finally catch his notice.

But when Flora's father's matchmaking schemes come in the way of her plans, Teddy will have to decide where his happiness truly lies and what he is willing to sacrifice for it.
 
Bethany House Publishing, January 2022
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy HER DARLING MR. DAY at Amazon, Christianbook.com, Baker Book House 

Tuesday, January 25, 2022

THE CEO'S COMPANION by Rose Fresquez, Reviewed by Nicole Cook #ReleaseDay


In The CEO’s Companion, author Rose Fresquez creates another beautiful faith-filled contemporary romance that will draw readers closer to their faith. With an engaging storyline and authentic characters, this heartwarming tale of finding one’s purpose and discovering true love is a delight to read.

After the struggles and heartache CEO Eric Stone has faced in his life, it would be understandable for him to doubt his faith. However, despite difficult times, his trials have eventually helped strengthen his faith and his desire to help others realize God’s grace. The romance between Eric and Joy develops at a realistic pace and allows readers to experience the journey along with them.
The CEO’s Companion is recommended for readers of inspirational contemporary romance.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine. Strong faith content.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Despair held him captive. Can her love break his chains?

After a deadly fire robbed him of his wife and children, billionaire Eric Stone clings to God and buries himself in work to distract himself from his grief. But when a mysterious illness takes away his ability to work, Eric must retreat to his childhood home to rest and recover. Grief-stricken and hopeless, he is irritated by his new care taker’s enthusiasm for life. But against his will, her sunny outlook makes inroads.

Joy got a new lease on life after beating cancer four years ago. Now, she lives every day to serve God and others. In her opinion, the grumpy CEO she is caring for doesn’t need her sympathy—but making him smile is her priority.

When she asks him to attend a wedding with her to avoid the matchmaking efforts of her roommate, Eric surprises himself by agreeing to pose as her fake date to shield her from a pushy suitor. As unexpected sparks fly, Eric’s and Joy’s hearts are trapped between what’s fake and what’s real. Could this weekend be their chance for a new beginning?

The CEO's Companion : A Slow Burn Christian Contemporary workplace Romance (BWWM)

This is the fourth standalone book in the caregiver series. Each book can be read in any order.
Books in the series
1. The Doctor's Nanny
2. The Entrepreneur's Nurse
3.The Physician's Helper
4. The CEO's Companion
5. The Investor's Wife
6. The Soldier's Trainer
7. The Realtor's Attendant

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rose Fresquez is a stay-at-home mom, with a husband and four kids. In her free time, she likes to spend time outdoors with the family, sing gospel music and plotting her next writing project.

Rose’s writing projects include both Christian non-fiction and Christian fiction.

DANCING WITH DANDELION by Tara Grace Ericson, Reviewed by Kim


Dancing with Dandelion: A Christian Enemies-to-Lovers Romance (Bloom Sisters Book 7)
What a wonderful story to end the Bloom Sisters series! I really loved this story! Ross and Andi and how their relationship developed, reconnecting with all of the Bloom family members, and the little taste of Ms. Ericson’s upcoming romantic suspense series were the highlights of this story for me. Dancing with Dandelion is definitely my favorite of this series!

One of my biggest pet peeves is an unlikeable snarky heroine, so I wasn’t sure I was going to like Andi, at first. Thanks to the perfect banter between her and Ross, their amazing chemistry, and Ross with his flirty ways, I ended up really liking her and their relationship! I loved every second they were on the page together!
I loved how faith was woven in to this story. It felt natural and real. I also really loved the epilogue of this story! It was unique in that we got to visit with each sibling and catch up on what was happening in their lives. I am really looking forward to reading Ms. Ericson’s next series!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is medium. 

 

BackCover Blurb:
They can’t agree on anything—except that the job comes first.

Dandelion “Andi” Bloom has sacrificed a lot for her career in the Army. Now that she’s retired, playing security guard at Bloom’s Farm for high-profile events is a welcome change of pace. That is, until hosting a string of political events means working with a Secret Service detail – including a certain special agent she would have rather left behind in Virginia.

Special Agent Ross McClain takes his job seriously. Even if he has to come to Middle of Nowhere, Indiana to work events for the vice presidential candidate. On Bloom’s Farm, Ross runs into a familiar—and unwelcoming—face. Could this assignment get any worse?

Despite their mutual disdain, Andi and Ross must work together to provide security for the farm and the candidate. As the assignment goes on, it becomes impossible not to clash over every decision—and even harder to deny their growing chemistry.

Dancing with Dandelion is Book 6 in the Bloom Sisters Series. This small town, family saga is full of heartwarming themes, swoony-worthy kisses, and sweet happy endings.

Book 0 - Hoping for Hawthorne
Book 1 - A Date for Daisy
Book 2 - Poppy's Proposal
Book 3 - Lavender and Lace
Book 4 - Longing for Lily
Book 5 - Resisting Rose
Book 6 - Dancing with Dandelion
 
Buy DANCING WITH DANDELION at Amazon in digital ebook or paperback.

Monday, January 24, 2022

IN THE WAVES OF TRISTWICK by Deborah M. Hathaway, Reviewed by Winnie Thomas


What fun to travel back to Cornwall in Deborah M. Hathaway’s newest book, In the Waves of Tristwick! Her books just keep getting better and better. The mermaid theme was fresh and creative, and the story gave insight into the prevailing thoughts and customs of 1815 Cornwall. The characters were colorful, layered, and intriguing. Trevik Honeysett is an industrious, considerate, likeable hero who seems to carry the weight of the entire fishing community on his shoulders. The heroine, Morvoren Hollow, is spunky, courageous, and longing for a different life away from her controlling uncle. What she finds is a warm, mostly welcoming, stay with the Honeysett family. The chemistry between Trevik and Morvoren was perfect as they slowly got to know each other and their relationship and perceptions changed and grew.
Filled with adventure, intrigue, romance, and wonderful historical detail, this story is a fantastic journey back in time to a small Cornish fishing village you won’t soon forget. It’s a delightful read for those who enjoy visiting other countries through historical fiction.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
4.5 stars 
 

BackCover Blurb:
What is a fisherman to do when he catches a mermaid in his net? Let her go—or fall in love?

A Regency Romance Cornwall, 1815
As a well-respected fisherman in the Cornish seas, Trevik Honeysett provides a living for many poor families in the southwest of Cornwall. Despite the most powerful fishing companies attempting to cut off his own ability to fish, Trevik refuses to give up. However, when he discovers a mysterious, injured woman entangled in his net, things become much more complicated—especially when suspicions arise that she is, in fact, a mermaid. Knowing he might very well lose his workers to their superstitious beliefs, Trevik decides to uncover just who the woman is. The only problem is…she can’t remember.

In truth, Morvoren Hollow knows exactly who she is. She merely needs to keep her identity a secret long enough to accomplish what she’d set off to do. Fortunately, pretending to be a mermaid will keep Society away long enough to do just that. Her lie becomes harder to manage, however, as her injury takes longer to heal—and as the nosy but handsome fisherman reels closer to the truth.

The two clash head-to-head as Trevik refuses to believe Morvoren is actually a siren from the sea. But such a thing would be easier to imagine than what he finally discovers about her past. Fearful of what might happen next, Morvoren must decide her next step. She can either learn to trust again—or end up truly alone.

This is the fourth book in the clean Regency Cornish Romance series by Deborah M. Hathaway. Although this romance is a stand-alone novel, the books are best enjoyed when read in order.

DraftHorse Publishing, January 2022. Buy IN THE WAVES OF TRISTWICK at Amazon in digital ebook or paperback.

Sunday, January 23, 2022

THE SIREN OF SUSSEX by Mimi Matthews, @Austenprose Tour with #Giveaway, Review by Debra Marvin



THE SIREN OF SUSSEX, BELLES OF LONDON Book One
Victorian high society’s most daring equestrienne finds love and an unexpected ally in her fight for independence in the strong arms of London’s most sought after and devastatingly handsome half-Indian tailor.

Evelyn Maltravers understands exactly how little she's worth on the marriage mart. As an incurable bluestocking from a family tumbling swiftly toward ruin, she knows she'll never make a match in a ballroom. Her only hope is to distinguish herself by making the biggest splash in the one sphere she excels: on horseback. In haute couture. But to truly capture London's attention she'll need a habit-maker who's not afraid to take risks with his designs—and with his heart.

Half-Indian tailor Ahmad Malik has always had a talent for making women beautiful, inching his way toward recognition by designing riding habits for Rotten Row's infamous Pretty Horsebreakers—but no one compares to Evelyn. Her unbridled spirit enchants him, awakening a depth of feeling he never thought possible.

But pushing boundaries comes at a cost and not everyone is pleased to welcome Evelyn and Ahmad into fashionable society. With obstacles spanning between them, the indomitable pair must decide which hurdles they can jump and what matters most: making their mark or following their hearts?



DEBRA'S REVIEW:
When I begin a Mimi Matthews story, I expect to be highly rewarded. After all, I’ve never been disappointed. Is it trite to say that her stories transport me? (They do, but that’s supposed to be the point of fiction and, for me, the draw of historicals… I want a long trip!)

Not only is the cover of “The Siren of Sussex” an immediate eye-catcher for style and color--and of course, that horse and that riding habit—but the title is a surprise. A siren, you say?

Now, I admit that I listened to the audiobook and I know that gives any story an advantage when narrated well (they aren’t all, sadly), but this truly was an effort in self-control. I did not listen to it at bedtime because I do need to sleep. The narrators were excellent. But from the start Evelyn Maltravers and her goal (how I love a practical heroine) grabbed my heart. And did I mention the horse? The details in the clothing design and creation?

We knew where this was going the first moment Evelyn heard the voice of the man behind the curtain. And what a hero! Ahmad Malik fits in nowhere, so he makes his own place in society. Even so… this can’t end well…

I’ve authored a few stories of my own, and I can say that my greatest compliment to any novel is that twinge of both fascination and jealousy at an astoundingly clever plot. Evelyn’s need of a wardrobe that would catch the attention of a suitor and Ahmad’s need to have his fashion creations displayed around town did indeed make for a good partnership. And what else could they have? Certainly not a romance or at least a happy ending? There were parts of this story where I had to stop listening because I was so emotionally caught up in ‘waiting for the other shoe to drop’…. Again, that ‘this can’t end well’ feeling. How does an author do that so convincingly even when we know it will. Ms. Matthews shows us how.

Marketed as historical fiction, I'll note here that The Siren of Sussex is not from a Christian Fiction publisher. However, Mimi Matthews is a fan favorite among that particular audience for both her skill and that lack of graphic romance… what we call ‘clean fiction’. However, the glances, the light touches, the emotions were about as clean-steamy as one could find!

If you’re a fan of Victorian fiction, the mix of ‘haves and have-nots’, London society, fashion details, horsemanship (a girl and her horse! right?) and being swept away in a story, I strongly recommend “The Siren of Sussex”. I’m in line for book two.
**I'm adding this note from the author: "Why did I include a plot thread about Victorian Spirtualism in Siren? In my novels, I write about real history. It doesn’t mean I endorse the beliefs or practices; it simply means they were a historical fact. In Siren’s case, the spiritualism plot thread served two very particular purposes (both directly related to class crossing)."


PURCHASE LINKS
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Mimi and Centelleo

USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.
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Don't forget to enter the giveaway Rafflecopter below!
 
ADVANCE PRAISE
“…a tender and swoon worthy interracial, cross-class romance in Victorian London…Readers will delight in this paean to women’s fashion and horseback riding.”— Publishers Weekly, starred review

“Matthews brings the Victorian era to vivid life with meticulously researched details and an impossible romance made believable and memorable.”— Booklist, starred review

“Matthews deftly underscores racial and gender discrimination in Victorian London in this excellent start to ‘The Belles of London’ series; rather than overshadowing, it propels the romance. Romance aficionados who love fashion and animals will delight in this tender romance and will be excited to see Evelyn’s friends in future installments.” — Library Journal, starred review

"Unflinching, tender, and moving, the delicately crafted The Siren of Sussex might just be my favourite work from Mimi Matthews; it certainly is one of my favourite historical romance reads this year."— Evie Dunmore, USA Today bestselling author of Portrait of a Scotsman

GIVEAWAY DETAILS
Mimi has generously offered a fabulous giveaway package: Terms & Conditions: Giveaway hosted by Mimi Matthews. No Purchase Necessary. Entrants must be 18 years or older. Open to US residents only. Void where prohibited.

1 winner (selected at random by Rafflecopter) receives the following:
Signed print copy of The Siren of Sussex, Horse scarf , Pewter sidesaddle brooch (made in Sussex, England!), The Siren of Sussex tote bag, Three candles in scents: Fresh Hay, New Saddle, and Winter Ride, Box of Ahmad Tea (60 count, assorted flavors), The Siren of Sussex bookmark

The giveaway is open from 12:01 am Pacific time 1/4/22 until 11:59pm Pacific time on 2/7/22. The winner will be announced on Mimi's blog - mimimatthews.com – at 8:00 pm Pacific time on 2/8/22.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

 Follow Mimi Matthews and Austenprose PR Tours!

·      Twitter handles: @MimiMatthewsEsq, @BerkleyRomance, @Austenprose

·      Twitter hashtags: #SirenofSussex, #HistoricalRomance, #NewBooks, #BookTwitter, #MimiMatthews, #BookTour, #AustenprosePR 

·      Instagram handles: @mmimatthewsesq, @berkleyromance, @austenprose

·      Instagram hashtags: #SirenofSussex, #HistoricalRomance, #NewBooks, #Bookstagram, #MimiMatthews, #BookTour, #AustenprosePR 

Saturday, January 22, 2022

DEATH TRIANGLE: A Medical Thriller (Agents Of Mercy #4) by Lynne Gentry and Lisa Harris, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney


"At the time, he'd planned to marry her, just like he'd planned to win against the virus. He'd been wrong on both counts."

Torn apart by circumstances beyond their control, two of the world's most capable infectious disease doctors are unknowingly about to become reacquainted, both personally and professionally, as they re-encounter one of the most dangerous illnesses they have ever identified. How was it even possible for a Tibetan virus to show up in a Congolese refugee camp; but apparently it had, because people were dying terrible deaths with bloodwork showing all the identifying markers in their system. Can an unstable vaccine come to the rescue . . . because time is running out and lives around the world are hanging in the balance. Someone has gone to a lot of trouble, and has spent a great deal of money to outrun death.

Fans of these books are going to stand up and cheer for this exciting conclusion to the vastly popular Agents of Mercy series . . . book four has all of the favorite characters, all the drama, all the romance, all the suspense, ALL . . . packaged perfectly into a race-against-the-clock kind of finale. Well done!
And as far as faith elements? " . . . what we see right now is temporary. And when it doesn't make sense, we have to remember that God is looking at life from a totally different perspective that we are."
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 
 
BackCover Blurb:
No one suspects that the deadly pharmaceutical and viral disasters ravaging the African continent have been the fallout from one person’s intent to acquire immortality.

Not until two pregnant teenagers escape their captors and stumble into an African refugee camp.

When one of the escapees suffers a strange and bloody death, Dr. Rachel Allen, an infectious disease specialist aboard a humanitarian medical ship ported on the Central African coast is summoned to the Congo. Despite the danger, Rachel answers the plea of the refugee camp’s only doctor and leaves her post. But by the time she discovers the ancient virus she believed securely held in an American vault has been weaponized, it is too late to call for help. If this new potential bioweapon is launched beyond the borders of Africa, it will destroy more than the world. It will destroy everything she believes to be true about the man she loved.

Buckle in.

The stunning conclusion to the Agents of Mercy series is a heart-pounding ride that brings together the characters you’ve come to love from GHOST HEART, PORT OF ORIGIN, and LETHAL OUTBREAK.

You won’t believe who orchestrated every deadly move from the first page to the last. . .and all of it was done in the name of scientific
progress.

May, 2021 Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon
 

Friday, January 21, 2022

LIFE FLIGHT by Lynette Eason, Reviewed by Kim

Life Flight is an exciting start to Lynette Eason’s new series, Extreme Measures. It is an edge of your seat thriller that will keep you glued to the pages with its many twists and turns! And, you will be desperately trying to figure out exactly what is happening and who all is involved. I was accusing literally everyone! Lol.

I really liked both Holt and Penny and how they worked together to find a serial killer that is on the loose. I also liked how they had known each other for awhile, but I do wish there would have been a bit more romance in this story.

And can I just talk about this villain? He is probably the most creepy villain I’ve ever read. The things Penny and others had to go through were nightmare inducing, intense, and downright scary. This story kept me turning the pages long into the night

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light.

SEE REVIEWS BY PAULA AND REBECCA~

BackCover Blurb:
EMS helicopter pilot Penny Carlton is used to high stress situations, but being forced to land on a mountain in a raging storm with a critical patient--and a serial killer on the loose--tests her skills and her nerve to the limit. She survives with FBI Special Agent Holt Satterfield's help. But she's not out of the woods yet.

In the ensuing days, Penny finds herself under attack. And when news reaches Holt that he may not have gotten his man after all, it will take all he and Penny have to catch a killer--before he catches one of them.

Bestselling and award-winning author Lynette Eason is back with another high-octane tale of close calls, narrow escapes, and the fight to bring a nefarious criminal to justice. 

Revell Books, January 2021
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy LIFE FLIGHT at Amazon, Christianbook.com, or Baker Book House



A HEART ADRIFT by Laura Frantz, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

“Tis never amiss to hope...dream.”

Esmee Shaw was a heart adrift. It remained to bee seen if she would find her harbor, her home, with Captain Henri Lennox. “...she wasn’t reminded at every turn of Henri Lennox, like she was when at the chocolate shop. On the other hand, she didn’t need reminding, as he’d taken up permanent residence in her head and her heart.”

From the beautiful cover until the last word, this book is a treasure. Full of characters that are worthy of emulating. Esmee is a business woman in her own chocolate shop and a patron and friend to the almshouse. Henri is a Captain in the Royal Navy who has been away for a decade. Once pledged to each other, they had a parting of ways which each now regrets. The story of their reunion is rich in atmosphere, showing how each has matured through the years. The author captures the colonial period with sumptuous words, taking you through the streets of York and Williamsburg realistically.

Ms. Frantz gives her characters a living faith that reaches out to us in the present: “The only certainty about life was its uncertainty. Only God stayed steadfast. Only the Almighty could walk her through life’s many changes. And when she felt overwhelmed, she simply had to look back and see how faithful God had been.... The heartaches and closed doors of the past had made the present more beloved.”

This is a story that brings history alive.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* 5+ stars and a solid faith thread 

SEE WINNIE'S REVIEW!

BackCover Blurb:
A Virginia chocolatier and a privateering sea captain collide once more after a failed love affair a decade before. Will a war and a cache of regrets keep them apart? Or will a new shared vision reunite them? 

It is 1755, and the threat of war with France looms over colonial York, Virginia. Chocolatier Esmée Shaw is fighting her own battle of the heart. Having reached her twenty-eighth birthday, she is reconciled to life alone after a decade-old failed love affair from which she's never quite recovered. But she longs to find something worthwhile to do with her life.

Captain Henri Lennox has returned to port after a lengthy absence, intent on completing the lighthouse in the dangerous Chesapeake Bay, a dream he once shared with Esmée. But when the colonial government asks him to lead a secret naval expedition against the French, his future is plunged into uncertainty.

Will a war and a cache of regrets keep them apart, or can their shared vision and dedication to the colonial cause heal the wounds of the past? Bestselling and award-winning author Laura Frantz whisks you away to a time fraught with peril--on the sea and in the heart--in this redemptive, romantic story.

Revell Books, January, 2022
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy A HEART ADRIFT at Amazon, Christianbook.com, or Baker Book House 

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How Our Giveaways Work: The Official Rules

We, the ladies of Inkwell Inspirations, would love to give free stuff to everybody. Since we can't, we will often have a giveaway in conjunction with a specific post. Unless otherwise stated, one winner will be drawn from comments left on that post between the date it was published and the end of the giveaway as determined in the post. Entries must be accompanied by a valid email address. This address is used only to contact the commenter in the event that he/she is the winner, and will not be sold, distributed, or used in any other fashion. The odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. NO PURCHASE, PLEDGE, OR DONATION NECESSARY TO ENTER OR TO WIN. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

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