Sunday, December 31, 2023
TRIXI OBEREMBT'S FAVORITE READS OF 2023
REBECCA MANEY'S TOP READS OF 2023
Double the Lies - Patricia Raybon
The Rose and The Thistle - Laura Frantz
On Moonberry Lake - Holly Varni
Saturday, December 30, 2023
CHRISTMAS BELLS AND WEDDING VOWS Collection, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney
from Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, and Misty M. Beller
"She had to get remarried. And the sooner, the better." - Claiming the Cowgirl, Jody Hedlund
Serena Taylor has a list of prospective husbands, and one by one (unknown to them) they were being interviewed. When a new potential bridegroom comes across her path, she manages to snag his attention, after all what western gentleman would pass up a chance to aid a young widow with a darling son? Yes, Mr. Weston Oakley would do just fine . . . whether he knew it yet or not.
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"'I was supposed to meet the new nurse in my employ. Miss Plum . . . And I gather that you are not her.'"- Doctor's Snowflake Bride, Lacy Williams
No, she was not the new nurse, Minnie Bannister was someone altogether different, a mail-order bride without a groom on a snowy evening in Bear Creek, Wyoming. It was obvious there would not be a wedding on this winter night, and while it seemed that the handsome Doctor Dawson didn't know exactly what to do with her . . . a terrible accident made the decision for them . . . Jed needed Minnie. For just how long? (still to be determined) . . .
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"Marry . . . my . . . daughter . . . please. Make her . . . your wife. Take her . . . to live . . . in safety." - Marrying the Mountain Man's Best Friend, Misty Beller
A dying friend's last wish; protection for his beloved daughter. Two Stones, a man betwixt and between two worlds wasn't at all sure that marrying Heidi was the only option, but he had made a promise and it was a promise that he would keep. Virginia City was certainly not a safe place for a lovely young woman, but what could he offer her in its place?
Three entirely different but equally enjoyable stories! I purchased this book but was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars
BackCover Blurb:
From bestselling and award winning authors, experience Christmas on the rugged western frontier with three novellas filled with unforgettable adventures, enduring romance, and the timeless message of hope found in the Savior’s birth.
Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund
Serena Taylor is hiding in Colorado’s high country to keep her son safe, and she knows the best way to protect him is by marrying again and giving him a father. Weston Oakley needs a wife by Christmas to placate his meddling family, but after being spurned one too many times in love, he’s reluctant to give his heart away again. When they agree on a marriage of convenience, both of them get much more than they bargained for.
Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams
Minnie steps off the train ready to become a mail-order bride, but she finds the well-dressed man waiting for her isn't her intended husband. The protective oath Jed took when he became a doctor doesn't cover stranded women, but he can't leave the beautiful stranger alone in a building blizzard two days before Christmas. When circumstances force them into close proximity, Jed and Minnie find that their growing feelings aren't convenient at all.
Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller
Two Stones, a Salish warrior accustomed to navigating between tribes and miners, unexpectedly finds himself summoned to the side of a dying friend in Virginia City. Sworn to honor the miner’s last wish, Two Stones agrees to marry his daughter, Heidi, but plans to take her to live with his parents. He’ll provide all her needs, make sure she’s safe, and visit her on occasion when his path leads him that direction. As they set out on the journey, their path is fraught with challenges that defy Two Stones' plans and reveal a surprising depth to Heidi's character. As they near the end of their trail and join the Christmas festivities at the Coulter Ranch, Two Stones begins to realize this inconvenient marriage might really be a Christmas gift he’ll always treasure.
BIDDING ON A SECOND CHANCE by Emily Conrad, Reviewed by Kim
A Small Town Christian Romance
I was happy to see that Emily Conrad was one of the authors participating in the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series because I have been wanting to read one of her books for a while now. While this is the 6th and final (for this year anyway!) book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. This is a sweet second chance romance, one of my favorite tropes.
I immediately liked Graham and couldn’t understand why Piper turned down his marriage proposal two years past. The answer is that Piper lets fear drive her life. This story is about them reconnecting and Piper working through her fears. I really liked the faith thread, as I tend to be a what-if person myself. It is a great reminder that God is in control, He is good, and He will see you through whatever He allows in your life.
This story is a sweet romance and while it does take place around Christmas, I feel it could be read anytime of the year as Christmas is not the prominent theme.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is prominent throughout. 4 stars.
BackCover Blurb:
His bid for a second chance this Christmas might lead to her most disastrous fall yet.
Police officer Graham Lockhart’s life is dangerous enough without accident-prone Piper Wells tripping around in it—at least that’s what she claimed when she declined his marriage proposal two years ago. But he can’t help but wonder if there is more to her refusal.
Piper always cared for Graham, but she is incapable of giving him the one thing he wants more than anything—family. All her orphaned self knows about that is how much it hurts to lose. She’s better off focusing on caring for her nephew and running her business. Secondhand furniture doesn’t break hearts.
When an injury sidelines Piper leading into the holidays, Graham steps up to help her keep her commitment to a Christmastime auction benefiting a local family. Can they overcome the hurdles between them, or will the past and their warring hopes and fears trip them up for good?
Visit Redemption Ridge, Colorado and enjoy the faith, friendships, and forever-afters of the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series of Christian romance.
This series is a spin-off continuation of the best-selling Heroes of Freedom Ridge Series with all new characters and traditions, but the same magic of community and romance readers love.
Friday, December 29, 2023
CHRISTMAS WITH CAMERON STINKING MILLER by Martha Fouts, Reviewed by Kim
I loved both Cameron and Hannah and their romance! They have known each other all of their lives and have recently reconnected. I love this trope. I really enjoyed how this story was written and that past issues didn’t get in the way of Hannah and Cameron’s current relationship.
*I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. 5 stars!
BackCover Blurb:
Hannah Orwell has returned to her hometown to take a new job as the host of a local morning show. Her childhood nemesis, Cameron Miller, has remained in Cool Springs all these years and is now the town’s head middle school football coach. Hannah and Cameron’s longtime pastor’s wife, Maureen (who is well known for her matchmaking), has asked Hannah and Cameron to both help her with this year’s children’s Christmas play. Can Hannah and Cameron forgive and forget the past, or are they doomed to repeat the patterns of their past? Christmas with Cameron Stinking Miller reminds readers that we do not earn or deserve God’s forgiveness in our lives, but that it is a free gift for us to simply receive, and that forgiving others is often the key to being able to forgive ourselves.
Catch up with Maureen and more of your Cool Springs friends who've appeared in other inspirational romances by Martha Fouts!
August, 2021 Available in paperback or digital ebook at Amazon
Thursday, December 28, 2023
TRUST THE STARS by Tricia Goyer, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise
Princess Allesandra: “It is often in the darkest skies that we see the brightest star.”
A truly remarkable story which is all the more remarkable when I realized that this is the fictional account of a real Italian princess who was sent to Buchenwald during WWII.
There are many recent books about the appalling treatment of people by the Germans in WWII. But each is unique and this author excells in using this story to bring hope.
I adore dual timelines and this was no exception. The way Ms. Goyer meshed the eras together was impressive. Each time period had me eager to see what happened next. The characters jumped off the page. The theme of being light in the darkness came through in multiple ways. Present day Olivia and Louis were shown to have a solid faith. Louis, although he was a prince, was portrayed as a realistic human being with hopes, dreams and a caring heart. Likewise, in 1939, Princess Alessandra was pictured as a godly, selfless person who wanted to bring hope to the hopeless. The lesson I took away : We each have a place in God’s plan, no matter our station in life.
BackCover Blurb:
Olivia Garza, a woman committed to making a difference in the world, thrives in her unconventional, service-oriented life. By day, she helps troubled teens in inner-city Little Rock. By night, she creates a viral docu-series in an attempt to better understand her mother’s desperate decisions by retracing her steps with a camera. So far, Olivia has always been the anonymous narrator, but she’s promised to reveal herself in the last stop on her documentary: Kenya.
Prince Louis, heir to the throne of the small European kingdom of Alloria, is in Kenya to run away from a broken heart—and the media circus that comes with it. When he meets Olivia, he recognizes her voice right away from the docu-series that has stirred his heart. Though they share a magical day on safari, any dreams of happily ever after come crashing down with the flash of the paparazzi cameras when Olivia realizes that he represents everything she most despises in the world.
In World War II Rome, another royal, however, has her own life-changing choices to make. Princess Alessandra Appiani could have chosen quiet safety within the walls of the Vatican, but instead she risks her life—and her family—to save the Jewish children so in need of someone to show them the love of God.
When Olivia is hired to help create a documentary about Alessandra, learning about the sacrifice of a royal who goes from palace to prison forces her to face the hardest questions of all: Should she continue on the path she’s carved for herself or trust God to give her the future she never thought she wanted?
Wednesday, December 27, 2023
THE PARIS HOUSEKEEPER by Renee Ryan, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise
Ms. Ryan has used her research of real events to highlight yet another story of perseverance, daring and resilience under oppression from the Germans. She has brought to life characters who risked much to save Jews from unjust persecution and shown the exceptional fortitude it took to fraternize with the enemy for the sake of helping Jewish people escape to safety.
I recommend this book for fans of WWII and the brave action of ordinary people during daunting circumstances.
BackCover Blurb:
From the author of The Secret Society of Salzburg comes a powerful and moving story of bravery and resilience in World War II Paris and one woman who must face impossible choices to survive…
Paris, 1940
German tanks rumble through the streets of Paris, forcing frightened citizens to flee. But not everyone has the luxury to leave. Camille Lacroix, a chambermaid at the world-famous Hôtel Ritz, must stay to support her family back home in Brittany. Desperate to earn money, Camille also acts as a lady’s maid for longtime guest Vivian Miller, a glamorous American widow—and a Nazi sympathizer.
Despite her distrust of the woman, Camille turns to Vivian when her friend and fellow hotel maid Rachel Berman needs help getting out of Paris. It’s then that Camille discovers that Vivian is not what she seems… The American has been using her wealth and connections to secretly obtain travel papers for Jewish refugees.
While they're hiding Rachel in an underground bunker under a Nazi’s nose, a daring escape plan is hatched. But as the net grows tighter, and the Germans more ruthless, Camille’s courage will be tested to the extreme…
Tuesday, December 26, 2023
BURIED GRAVE SECRETS by Darlene L.Turner, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay
A cemetery that holds extra graves with re-buried bones has forensic anthropologist Dr. Jordyn Miller teaming with former love Colt Peters, a constable sent by her father to protect her.
This case dredges up more than old bones. Whose bones they are will prove to bring up old hurts to the surface.
Danger follows Jordyn and Colt as they seek answers. Never a dull moment in this exciting story of two souls searching for guidance from God. An integral character is Bones, the K-9 partner assigned to Colt. The author portrayed him authentically.
If you want an intriguing mystery with twists and turns and a second chance romance- look no further!
*I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from Love Inspired on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*4 stars and a solid faith thread
BackCover Blurb:
Standing guard…
with threats on all sides.
When bones are found at an unmarked grave site—and then shots are fired—forensic anthropologist Jordyn Miller knows someone wants old secrets to remain buried. She’ll do anything to uncover the truth about these suspicious deaths, including accepting the protection of her ex-boyfriend, Constable Colt Peters, and his K-9. But with targets on their backs, can Jordyn stay alive long enough to bring a serial killer to justice?
Saturday, December 23, 2023
ALL'S FAIR IN LOVE AND CHRISTMAS by Sarah Monzon, Reviewed by Trixi Oberembt
Whether I like it or not, I have no choice but to play Sofiya’s reindeer games.~ Mackenzie
Today is turning out to be one burned-out bulb after another on a strand of tangled Christmas lights. If I could throw the whole thing away and buy a new strand, I would. Instead, I’m stuck figuring out how to change these stupid bulbs, or my Christmas—and my life, apparently—is going to be about as bright as Times Square in a blackout. ~ Mackenzie
Sofiya is known for promoting someone in the office every Christmas and apparently she has both Jeremy and Mackenzie in mind. She pits them against each other to see who can come up with the most clever and unique Christmas activities. Who will win the battle of the tinsel or perhaps garland? Throw in a secret crush Mackenzie has had on Jeremy for two years, and you have a whole muddled mess in your hot chocolate!
This sounded like a whole lot of fun and a lighthearted read for Christmas. I love nothing more than to escape into the pages of a book during the busy holiday season. However, it started out strong but petered to a halt at not quite at the halfway point for me. No slight to the author at all, because I have read other books by Monzon and loved them. For some reason, this just didn’t hit the right spots for me. I think one example is when Jeremy said some pretty hurtful things behind Mackenzie’s back to another coworker and never really apologized or felt remorseful afterward. It turned me off completely from his character. I never really did click with either the hero or heroine so that didn’t help. Again, there is no slight to the author or her writing, but my own personal taste. I skimmed to the end to find out what happened and was pleasantly surprised to learn how things played out. I just wished I could have read ALL of it because there are some really cute spots!
This definitely has all the makings of a Hallmark holiday romance in page form! I think if you love rom-coms centered around the Christmas season similar to the ones on TV, a secret crush troupe and that eventual happily-ever-after then you’ll enjoy this one. Don’t let my review stop you from making your own judgment on this sweet novel!
*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House publishers and was under no obligation to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are mine *
BackCover Blurb:
Two workplace rivals. One festive competition. And a romance that upends it all.
Every
December two things are guaranteed for graphic designer Mackenzie
Graham--Christmas celebrations and the annual promotion at her
workplace. Those two things are by no means mutually exclusive. In fact,
the better an employee is at harnessing the Christmas spirit, the more
likely they'll win the new job. With her social anxiety, Mackenzie never
thought she'd be a contender in her company's holiday competition, so
how exactly has she found herself dueling her workplace crush with
wrapping paper tubes and using tinsel as her weapon of choice for a
much-needed raise?
Jeremy Fletcher's life is meticulously planned
out, including how to win this year's promotion at work. Not only will
the new position fulfill some of his career goals, but as a single
guardian to his twin niece and nephew, he needs the salary increase to
support his family. Jeremy has barely noticed Mackenzie Graham around
the office, but now that she's his rival, he can't stop thinking about
her. Her quirkiness intrigues him, and he's afraid that if he can't get
his head on straight, the promotion isn't the only thing he'll end up
losing to Mackenzie.
Bethany House Publishers, September, 2023
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy ALL'S FAIR IN LOVE AND CHRISTMAS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House
Friday, December 22, 2023
CAPTURING HOPE by Angela K. Couch, Reviewed by Paula and Winnie
PAULA'S REVIEW:
I am enjoying reading WWII stories and especially this series about its heroines. I know there are many tales yet to be told and I am glad for the authors who are brave enough to tell them.
What struck me in this book was the determination of Nadia and her compassion for the refugees trying to flee Poland. She was used to a lavish, privileged lifestyle but she bravely faced what problems came and worked to free the innocent when she could have just escaped herself.
David promised her father to see Nadia safely to England and he tried his best to sacrificially work to fulfill that promise. The author used interesting details to convey the dire situations that they faced. The romance between David and Nadia was helped along by the forced proximity, but that just brought out their faith and true characters.
The author showed the horrors and dangers of the times but also hope and human kindness that is found even under impossible conditions.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Barbour Review Program. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*5 stars and a solid faith thread
WINNIE'S REVIEW:
Set in Poland in 1939 during the beginning of the invasion of the country by the Germans, this riveting and compelling novel tells the story of Nadia Roenne, a privileged young lady whose life is upended by the start of World War II. When her father is murdered and her mother escapes to her native Germany, Nadia is left in the care of American David Reid who is charged with seeing her safely to London.
As Nadia and David prepare to leave, they come across others who are also in need of escape. It was inspiring to see Nadia change from a rather spoiled young lady to a caring, sacrificing person who thinks of others first.
With plenty of suspense, action, intrigue, inspiration, and even some romance, this story has something for everyone and is a great example of the courage and sacrifice of many people during World War II. It is often heart-wrenching and emotional, but is ultimately a tale of hope, courage, and service to others. Talented author Angela K. Couch has obviously done much research about this tragic piece of history. Although it is part of the Heroines of WWII series, it is a stand-alone book. I recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. All opinions are my own. 4.5 stars
BackCover Blurb
One step ahead of the Nazis. . .leaves Nadia little room for hope.
Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.
After her father is murdered by Nazis and her mother flees to her native Germany, hope is something of which Nadia Roenne feels little—even if it is the meaning of her name. It isn’t until an American photographer sacrifices his escape from Poland to save a Jewish family, that she finds a purpose. David Reid is very familiar with failure, but when he is charged with getting Nadia safely out of Poland, he is determined to succeed—even if she works against him at every turn, putting other’s lives ahead of her own. While they race against the daily shower of bombs over Warsaw and the ever-nearing German army, Nadia grows used to risking her life. . .but dare she risk her heart?
Barbour Publishing, November, 2023
Available in digital ebook, paperback, library binding, and audiobook:
Buy CAPTURING HOPE at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House
Thursday, December 21, 2023
THE JULIET CODE by Pepper Basham, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney
Having their honeymoon interrupted for a second time might frustrate most couples, but Frederick and Grace Percy, commonly known as Lord and Lady Astley among their peers, are not "most couples" by any wild stretch of the imagination. Grace is always up for an adventure and her new husband is realizing that having a beautiful beloved by his side who knows how to swing from ropes, pick locks, fight with a parasol (Grace's version of cane fighting . . . surprisingly effective), and "boo" ghosts away is a fortunate man indeed.
How could they have predicted that their friend, Detective Jack Miracle would show up (Grace has been reading his "how to" book!!!), and cordially invite them to assist him in a case involving a series of art thefts, introducing Frederick and Grace to an outlandish millionaire with a Venice villa full of people pretending to be someone they are not.
"Sitting at the table, she (Grace) took out her notepad and pen. What do we know? 1.____ ______ is not ___ _______. 2. ___ ______ is likely not_______. 3. Almost all _____________4. Who had _______________?"
"All the days ordained for you were written in His book before one came to be." Would that we would all take comfort in that fact.
*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. 3.5 stars
BackCover Blurb:
Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley Finally Reach Their Honeymoon Destination Only to Encounter a New Mystery in Need of Solving
Frederick and Grace Percy finally make it to Italy to enjoy a delayed
honeymoon and explore the beauties of the historic city of Venice. To
their surprise, their friend, Detective Jack Miracle, is also in the
city, investigating a series of art heists starting at the house of
eccentric millionaire, Laraby Covington. Drawn into a world of boat
races, mysterious houses, and parties of the rich and unusual in Venice,
Frederick and Grace learn of the existence of the Juliet paintings,
(Renaissance paintings feature Shakespeare’s tragic heroine) rumored to
hold a secret code to an underground vault of similarly treasured
artwork assumed lost over the centuries. As Freddie and Grace are pulled
deeper into the mystery and their beloved Detective Jack disappears,
can they use their wits and work as a team to find the thieves and Jack
before it’s too late?
The Juliet Code is a Freddie and Grace Mystery, sequel to The Mistletoe Countess and The Cairo Curse.
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
CHRISTMAS NOVELLAS by Best Selling Authors T. I. Lowe and Toni Shiloh! Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise
MOST WONDERFUL TIME by Toni Shiloh
Lewis Family Series #3
This was a fun, faith filled story about Shanee, a new employee who hates Christmas. Gabriel, the bosses son, on the other hand is cheerful, even if his mother loves everything Christmas, naming her kids after all things Christmas.
I like the way Ms. Shiloh writes stories with solid Christian families. The Lewis family is close-knit and loving. Shanee, after an injury, learns to cope and through interaction with positive Gabe, mends her relationship with God.
Lovely, cozy feelings emerged while reading this cute novella. Just the thing for a Christmas lover.
* I won this ebook from Kav at Bestreads in October, 2023. All opinions are my own.*5 stars and a solid faith thread
BackCover Blurb:
Gabe Lewis loves Christmas, just not as much as his eccentric mother who gave him and his siblings Christmas names. When he discovers that his new co-worker Shanée Mitchell wants nothing to do with the season, he makes it his mission to show her the true meaning. But he never expected feelings to develop for the Air Force veteran. Can he take a chance that she feels the same way or miss the best gift of all?
Buy MOST WONDERFUL TIME AT AMAZON in digital ebook or paperback
THE HOLIDAY HUNT by T. I. Lowe
Just the thing to get you in the holiday spirit.
Cute touch: the chapter titles are Christmas songs.
Georgia
has not been home in several years, putting all her effort into
marketing the town of Willa Falls in her job as Executive Director of
the Chamber of Commerce. She has planned lots of fun projects around
Christmas and it has paid off. Hunky Mac has been on her radar since she
moved to town. Now to get him to notice her.
Witty banter, snarky side kick and manipulation mishap makes this a cute Christmas read.
*I purchased this book from Amazon in December, 2022. All opinions are my own.*5 stars and a solid faith thread
BackCover Blurb:
A light-hearted holiday romance by bestselling author, T.I. Lowe.
Georgie Harlow is all about spreading the magic of Christmas, but the magic of love keeps eluding her. Maybe mountain man Machlan Masterson will help her hunt it down once and for all.
BUY THE HOLIDAY HUNT in digital ebook at Amazon