Love You, Truly by Susan L. Tuttle

About the Book
Blake Carlton, the camera-shy son of Hollywood’s Darling, dodges the invasive limelight and scripted relationships that so often accompany fame. But when his mother’s popularity declines and she falls into a depression, he offers himself up as the next bachelor on a reality show, hoping to reignite interest in her career while creating a way for them to finally connect.
After her fiancé dumps her for her best friend, aspiring photographer Harlow Tucker is done with romance—until her beloved, disabled sister requests her aid to start a nonprofit. Harlow agrees to do whatever is needed to raise funds, even reluctantly costarring on a dating show with a notorious womanizer who distrusts anyone behind a lens.
As Blake and Harlow navigate the superficiality of a reality show, their preconceived notions of love are challenged. Deciding to trust each other feels like the ultimate risk, but taking that chance could lead to a love truly picture-perfect, worth both of their hearts.

My Thoughts
When you absolutely love an author’s debut novel there’s always a little bit of worry starting their sophomore release. Was the first book just a one-off? A one-hit wonder? But I needn’t have have worried with this one! As much as I loved At First Glance, I think this one was even better!
First of all, Bachelor Nation is my guilty pleasure so I loved the reality dating show plot line! It was such a fun setting for the story!
I loved Blake and Harlow! Neither of them have had an easy go of things and life left them both with trust issues. Blake grew-up in the limelight and felt like a commodity that people used but never truly knew. And Harlow grew up with a sister who had a debilitating disease and as a result her needs and desires always came second leaving her feeling unnoticed. Both we’re looking to people for things that only God could give them and I loved seeing their journey to discovering that.
The banter/arguing between Blake and Harlow was easily one of my favorite things about this book, I laughed out loud so many times at their witty remarks.
As for the romance, it was so authentic and real and I absolutely loved it. Neither of them had any illusions of actually falling in love and that made the way it slowly happened all the sweeter! They were exactly what the other didn’t know they needed. And the kisses (or lack there of), so perfectly done! Never has a kiss on the cheek made me melt into a puddle until this book and I’m still smiling just thinking about it! I was so totally invested in their relationship that I was scared right along with them, they both were fragile, imperfect people, and it seemed like one wrong move could shatter everything irreversibly. But Tuttle skillfully wove their tale, and though there was a lot of hard go through it was a breaking that needed to happen so that things could come together in a more perfect way.
In short I loved everything about this book and I’m already planning a reread!

About the Author
Susan L. Tuttle was born and raised in the Mitten State where she met and married her best friend. A homeschooling mom of three, somewhere along the way she blinked and those three littles aren’t so little anymore. Now she balances their teenage years with directing the women’s ministry at her church and writing new stories. She fully believes that God is the biggest romancer in the world and that He loves each one of us lavishly even in all our imperfections—a belief tried and tested by her own misses at perfection. Never having met a cookie she didn’t like, most days you’ll find her enjoying one for a treat between chauffeuring her kiddos around, attempting housework, contemplating exercise, or coaxing her current characters to talk.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Above the Fold by Rachel Scott McDaniel

About the Book
After losing the love of her life to a big city journalism job, Elissa Tillman pours herself into the suffragette movement and her secretarial work helping keep her father’s Pittsburgh newspaper afloat.
Cole Parker returns to the steel city with the phantom failures of his past nipping his heels. All he asks of the future is a second chance with the woman he once spurned.
The murder of a millionaire offers the perfect chance for Elissa to prove to her father and the world that she’s a serious journalist. But there’s a catch—she has to compete for the story. Against none other than Cole Parker, the very man who shattered her heart.

My Thoughts
There is something equally wonderful and terrifying about reading the debut novel of someone you consider a friend.
Thankfully (and not surprisingly) this book was all wonderful! I was hooked from the very start and even though life kept taking me away from reading the story stayed with me, calling me back to its pages!
Admittedly I was scared that I would hate Elissa. She was desperate to prove herself as a reporter and was a staunch supporter of women’s rights, two things that often make heroines obnoxious and off-putting to me. But this author handled both aspects extremely well and they didn’t annoy me in this character even once! Elissa did have a little maturing to do but I found myself liking her and rooting for her as she experienced the growth. Cole was a hero you couldn’t help cheering for. He overcame a lot of hurdles, some that were of his own making, and was determined to be a man worthy of the opportunities he was given. I absolutely love his unwavering love of Elissa. He didn’t care what personal cost there were to him as long as she was protected.
I loved seeing them find their way back to each other and the love they’d never given up.
The big story they were chasing provided a captivating mystery throughout the book and the author expertly penned it so that even I was shocked by the ending!
And I can’t write this review without talking about one more “character” the city of Pittsburgh. As someone who’s lived outside of the city her whole life I absolutely loved all the mentions of all the familiar places! She definitely did our beautiful city justice!
All in all I could not believe this was a debut and I’m already anxiously awaiting whatever else this author has in store for us!

Meet the Author
Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author of historical romance. Winner of the ACFW Genesis Award and the RWA Touched By Love award, Rachel infuses faith and heart into each story. She currently enjoys life in Ohio with her husband and two kids. Rachel can be found online at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com and on all social media platforms.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

The Dating Charade by Melissa Ferguson

About the Book
Just when you think you’ve met your match . . . the charade begins.
Cassie Everson is an expert at escaping bad first dates. And, after years of meeting, greeting, and running from the men who try to woo her, Cassie is almost ready to retire her hopes for a husband—and children—altogether.
But fate has other plans, and Cassie’s online dating profile catches the eye of firefighter Jett Bentley. In Jett’s memory, Cassie Everson is the unreachable girl-of-legend from their high school days. Nervously, he messages her, setting off a chain of events that forces a reluctant Cassie back into the dating game.
No one is more surprised than Cassie when her first date with Jett is a knockout. But when they both go home and find three children dropped in their laps—each—they independently decide to do the right and mature thing: hide the kids from each other while sorting it all out. What could go wrong?
Melissa Ferguson’s hilarious and warmhearted debut reminds us that love can come in very small packages—and that sometimes our best-laid plans aren’t nearly as rewarding and fun as the surprises that come our way.

My Thoughts
I have been desperately searching for a new contemporary romance author to love and I have just found her! You guys. This book was amazing! Everything I wanted it to be and so so so much more!! From the very beginning I was completely hooked and I read the whole thing in one sitting! Everything was expertly crafted, from the characters, to the plot, to the romance, to the humor! Cannot believe that this is a debut-it was that well done!
I loved Jett and Cassie, both of them work in jobs that require sacrifice and they both care passionately about the people they take care of. They both immediately step up and in when it is needed almost without thought to how it will disrupt their lives. They were so perfectly matched for each other and I loved their easy connection and the banter between them!
One of my favorite parts about this book was how much it made me laugh out loud! The humor was brilliantly woven in so naturally and just perfectly timed! There was the antics of the kids, the teasing of the friends, the scheming of little old ladies, and a bunch of other hilarious moments.
The secondary cast of characters were all so entertaining and I loved each of them for their own reasons!
Basically every single part of this book was awesomely fantastic and Melissa Ferguson has launched herself on to my favorite authors list! Cannot wait to see what else she has in store for us!

Meet the Author
Melissa Ferguson is an adjunct professor for Bible and religion at King University. She lives in the charming town of Bristol, Tennessee, with her husband, twin toddlers, and baby girl. She used to have hobbies like running and backpacking the Appalachian Trail outside her door. Now her hobbies include admiring the Appalachian Trail out her minivan window while singing "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" en route to the library.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

The Perfect Christmas by Bell Renshaw

About the Book
Will the perfect Christmas be enough to convince Beau that a life with Ansley could be equally perfect?
Born and raised in Winter, Montana, Beau Bradley can’t imagine life anywhere else. During the holiday season his coffee shop, Mountain Grounds, is as busy as ever and now that his girlfriend is back in town, things finally seem to be lining up—until he gets a call that could change it all.
Ansley Strauss is back in Winter after a nine-month, art intensive in Canada and she’s ready to celebrate the Christmas season in the tried and true Winter-style. There’s only one problem: her boyfriend lacks Christmas spirit. Her solution? Make this Christmas perfect to remind Beau just how special this time of year is.
Set on a course for ultimate Christmas joy, Ansley and Beau find that life doesn’t always work out the way they hope it will. Beau faces the reality that plans can’t account for everything and sometimes risking it all is the only way. Ansley will have to come to the realization that no matter how perfect things are, it’s the imperfections in life that make it worth living.
It’s another Christmas in Winter, Montana where the coffee is always hot and the mistletoe beckons lovers to share a kiss.

My Thoughts
I have been waiting for this story for what feels like forever and I was so happy to finally get it in my hands!
After meeting Beau and Ansley in the previous book I was quite anxious to see how their story would play out and was so ready to see them get their happily ever after!
Beau was, by his own admission, an idiot for most of the book. Not in the I-hate-this-character way but in the wake-up-and-smell-the-alfalfa way. He was his own worst enemy, letting his crazy need for having everything thing planned out and overthinking almost sabotage his relationship with Ansley. But despite the fact that he needed a good wake up call I still liked his character a lot!
I felt a little bad for Ansley, waiting for Beau to realize what was right in front of him all those years, but I loved that she never stopped loving him through all of it.
They really were a cute couple and I could not wait for them to work through everything and find their way to their happy beginning.
It was a lot of fun to visit Winter again and see some familiar faces! I’m looking forward to coming back again when we get Troy’s story!

Meet the Author
Annabell “Bell” Renshaw has always loved books and the power of a good story. She turned those passions toward writing at an early age, finding solace and adventure in made-up worlds when her mother would read to her as a kid. She’s grown up now, but still finds herself lost in those worlds. She believes in the power of a happy ending and the fact that--no matter what--love will always find a home.
Connect with her on her website: www.bellrenshaw.jimdo.com

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Deadly Deceit by Natalie Walters

About the Book
Independent and tenacious journalist Vivian DeMarco is back in Walton, Georgia, for one reason--to do her job and get out. When her boss suddenly dies under suspicious circumstances, Vivian's only hope for finding the truth--and the next big story--is small-town law enforcement's lanky poster boy, Deputy Ryan Frost. But the deeper they dig, the more twisted the truth becomes, and Vivian finds herself fighting for not only answers but also her life. False leads, incriminating emails, and someone called The Watcher force Vivian to confront the secret of her past and decide: How much is she willing to risk for the sake of a headline?

Author Natalie Walters welcomes you back to Walton, Georgia, where everyone knows your name--but no one knows your secret.

My Thoughts
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book since both the heroine and the hero didn’t make the best impression in book one. But my worry was unfounded and the author brilliantly turned them around!
Ryan was a bit of a gangly nerd but in a Captain America-esque move, months of intensive training from the FBI made him a strong gangly nerd. After Living Lies I wasn’t sure he’d be believable hero but he kept his charming personality while adding the capability of coming to the rescue that really made him a hero you could root for!
As for Vivian, she was the typically annoying reporter that only cares about the story in book one so I honestly thought I’d hate her in this one. But after the fallout from the events of LL she really had to reevaluate things and began to realize that there’s more to life than the next big story. Getting into her head and seeing what made her tick also made her so much more likable and I actually enjoyed her character.
It was cool to see both Ryan and Vivian come into their own and find happiness together.
The mystery of figuring out who the Watcher was and trying to stop him was very compelling and I was invested throughout!

Overall this was a sequel that outshone its predecessor and I’m looking forward to watch Natalie Walters has in store for us next!

Meet the Author
Natalie Walters is the author of Living Lies. A military wife of 22 years, she currently resides in Hawaii with her soldier husband and their three kids. She writes full-time and has been published in Proverbs 31 magazine and has blogged for Guideposts online. In addition to balancing life as a military spouse, mom, and writer, she loves connecting on social media, sharing her love of books, cooking, and traveling. Natalie comes from a long line of military and law enforcement veterans and is passionate about supporting them through volunteer work, races, and writing stories that affirm no one is defined by their past. Learn more at www.nataliewalterswriter.com.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

She Prays by Debbie Lindell

About the Book
One of the most wonderful things about walking with God is that we can have an intimate and real relationship with him. He wants us to know him so well that we are comfortable talking to him about anything and everything. Yet, there are times when we feel disconnected and insecure. We desire to grow in prayer, but we don't know where to begin, what to say, or how to listen for his voice.

In She Prays, Debbie Lindell invites you on a 31-day journey to experience a confident and conversational relationship with your heavenly Father. She shows you how to replace the pressure to perform in prayer with a faith-filled expectation--trusting that God is delighted with every conversation and every word we whisper to him. Her desire is that your soul will be transformed as your confidence in prayer grows, and that your faith will be strengthened as you see God work through your prayers in ways you never imagined possible.

My Thoughts
This book would be a great tool for those who are new to Christianity and prayer. There was a lot of truth and helpful tips jammed into this small book. Each day's reading is the perfect length to fit into busy schedules and just the right amount of information to be easily digested.
As some who has been a Christian all of her life, nothing in this book was new information or even information told in a new way. But it was extremely well written and I know that it will be very useful and informative for many other people and I know that I will be recommending it.

Meet the Author
Debbie Lindell is the author of She Believes, and she and her husband, John, serve as lead pastors of James River Church in Springfield, Missouri. In 2003, Debbie launched the Designed for Life Women's Conference, which today draws 10,000 women annually from across the nation and around the world. As a dynamic leader and speaker, she has a passion to see women of all ages embrace their unique design, understand their purpose, and connect to one another through life-giving sisterhood. Learn more at DebbieLindell.com.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Like a Winter Snow by Lindsay Harrel

About the Book
In this standalone holiday novella, return to the charming Cornish village readers fell in love with in The Secrets of Paper and Ink.
Women’s counselor Joy Beckman has always been a friend and helper to all. That’s why she’s given up everything to be with her parents as her mother suffers through Alzheimer’s. Joy may not have a thriving career or a love life at the moment, but she’s doing what she does best—taking care of others. And even though it’s difficult, she knows it’s where she is supposed to be.
But life throws a curveball when she has to leave her parents temporarily to travel to Cornwall, England, for the Christmas-time wedding of her best friend. While there, Joy helps Sophia tackle her last-minute to-do list, and in the process, finally meets a man who turns her head—and her heart. The only problem? He lives in snowy London, and her life is with her parents back in sunny Florida.
She tries to resist Oliver Lincoln’s charms, but it’s harder than it should be. With her heart torn in two, Joy is forced to choose between a life she knows she’s meant for and the one she didn’t see coming.

My Thoughts
This novella was absolutely charming and sweet and everything I wanted it to be! I loved travelling back to the enchanting town of Port Willis. It captured my heart in The Secrets of  Paper and Ink and I was delighted to have the chance to visit again. I was also really happy that Joy got her story! Both she and Oliver were really great characters and while their romance was a bit of a whirlwind it was the absolute sweetest. Their spark was there from the very first time they met and just grew from there. Sometimes these quick novella romances come across inauthentic but that wasn't the case here, I honestly felt their connection and absolutely loved them together. It was also really fun to catch up with Sophia and William, and Ginny and Stephen, so great to see how their lives were turning out. Basically my only complaint about this story was that it was too short and I wanted more!

Meet the Author

Lindsay Harrel is a lifelong book nerd with a B.A. in journalism and M.A. in English. She lives in Arizona with her young family and two golden retrievers in serious need of training. Lindsay has held a variety of jobs, including curriculum editor for two universities, medical and business writer, and copywriter for a digital marketing agency. Now she juggles stay-at-home mommyhood with working freelance jobs, teaching college English courses online, and—of course—writing novels.
When she actually has time to do other things, she loves to sing, read, and sip passion iced teas from Starbucks. She loves to watch God work in ordinary lives to create something extraordinary, and she writes to bring hope to those who may have lost it along the way. Connect with her at www.LindsayHarrel.com and any other place she hangs out online, including Facebook and Twitter.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Dark Ambitions by Irene Hannon

About the Book
Former Army Night Stalker Rick Jordan usually has his camp for foster children to himself during the winter months. But someone has visited recently--leaving a trail of blood. One of the two clues left behind tips Rick off to the identity of his visitor, who soon turns up dead. The police deem it an accident, but Rick isn't convinced. With the help of private investigator Heather Shields, he sets out to decipher the remaining clue. Except someone doesn't want them to succeed--and will stop at nothing to keep them from finding the truth.

With her trademark psychological suspense ratcheting up the tension on every page, bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon takes you on a search for a cold-blooded killer with an ambitious goal and deadly intent.

My Thoughts
I have been an Irene Hannon fan since her debut novel came out and after loving Rick in the previous two books of this series I was excited to get his story! While this one didn't end up being my favorite of Hannon's it was still an enjoyable read! Unlike this author's previous books that seem to start with high action and not let up, this one was more of a slow burn. But when the action did start up, things moved at lightning speed and you were never quite sure just what would happen next. Reader's are kept on their toes with multiple POVs that make it hard to tell just who the bad guy is, though I will say I did guess right!
Rick and Heather had an instant attraction to each other that only intensified as the story progressed. I would have preferred a little more depth to their relationship, instead of all the focus on the physical (and Rick's descriptions of Heather's outfits were just way too detailed for any straight man) but I did like them as a couple and was happy that Rick found someone.
I loved the fact that this story took place in connection with the PI firm from the Private Justice series! It was fun to not only catch up with the characters from the previous books in this series but also with the Phoenix guys! It's so fun when author's connect their series.
I'm sad to see this series end but I cannot wait for whatever else this author has for us!

Meet the Author
Irene Hannon is the best-selling author of more than 35 novels. Her books have been honored with the coveted RITA Award from Romance Writers of America, the HOLT Medallion, the Reviewer's Choice Award from Romantic Times BOOKreviews magazine and the Daphne du Maurier Award for mystery/suspense. Irene and her husband make their home in Missouri, USA. Irene invites you to visit her at her website, www.irenehannon.com

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

A Distance Too Grand by Regina Scott

About the Book
Meg Pero has been assisting her photographer father since she was big enough to carry his equipment, so when he dies she is determined to take over his profession--starting with fulfilling the contract he signed to serve on an Army survey of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in 1871. What she doesn't realize is that the leader of the expedition is none other than the man she once refused to marry.
Captain Ben Coleridge would like nothing more than to leave without the woman who broke his heart, but he refuses to wait even one more day to get started. This survey is a screen for another, more personal mission, one he cannot share with any member of his team.

As dangers arise from all sides, including within the survey party, Meg and Ben must work together to stay alive, fulfill their duties, and, just maybe, rekindle a love that neither had completely left behind.

My Thoughts
I had never read anything by this author before but I'd heard good things about her Love Inspired titles so I decided to give her first full length novel a shot. The premise was intriguing and I loved the setting of the Grand Canyon, a place I've always wanted to visit. Unfortunately this book wasn't quite what I was hoping it would be and I was left wanting a little more. Overall it wasn't bad, things just moved at a slow pace and honestly I was kinda bored. There were hints of a mystery and I kept wanted that angle to burst on the scene a little more but everything was kept pretty low key. Ben was a pretty good guy, but Meg was rather annoying and reckless with always wanting to get "the shot". This book had a similar feel to Karen Witemeyer and Regina Jennings but was just missing a little something. I think a lot of the things I had trouble with stem from the fact that the author is transitioning from shorter novels to longer ones and maybe had a little trouble filling the story out. It was a quick read though and overall it was a decent story. I'm sure there will be many people who will thoroughly enjoy this book, it just wasn't for me. If the premise interests you please go check out some other reviews and don't just take my word for it!

Meet the Author
Regina Scott is the author of more than 40 works of warm, witty historical romance. Her writing has won praise from Booklist and Library Journal, and she was twice awarded the prestigious RT Books Reviews best book of the year in her category. A devotee of history, she has learned to fence, driven four-in-hand, and sailed on a tall ship, all in the name of research. She and her husband of 30 years live south of Tacoma, Washington, on the way to Mt. Rainier.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

One Final Breath by Lynn H. Blackburn

About the Book
When investigator Gabriel Chavez had his cover blown by an aggressive reporter, the silver lining was being able to rejoin the dive team. The downside? Dive team captain Anissa Bell--a woman who both fascinates and frustrates him.
Anissa grew up as a missionary kid on the Micronesian island of Yap and always planned to return after college. But she remained stateside, determined to solve the case that haunts her--the murder of her best friend and the disappearance of a three-year-old child.
When Anissa's fractured past collides with Gabe's investigation into the tragic shooting death of a teenage boy in Lake Porter, they'll have to put their complicated history with each other aside in order to uncover the identity of a killer. What they'll discover is that revenge has no statute of limitations.

Award-winning author Lynn H. Blackburn closes out her nail-biting Dive Team Investigations series with a story that will have you wondering how long you can hold your breath.

My Thoughts
Lynn H. Blackburn has done it again! When I read her debut novel I knew that she had something special and would be one to watch. And boy was I right! She just keeps getting better and I think this was probably my favorite of the series! Gabe and Anissa’s story had been a long time coming and it was everything I was hoping it would be and so much more!
I really could relate to Anissa, the way her brain worked was very similar to how mine does so it was easy for me to connect with her. I loved her in the previous books but it was even better when you got inside her head and really got to know her.
I loved Gabe a whole lot. On one hand we didn’t get a lot of his story but it wasn’t relevant to what was going on and the author gave us enough to still get to see a little of what had shaped the man he was today. His sense of humor had me laughing out loud several times but he also knew when to be serious and honestly had me melting at times. Together Anissa and Gabe just made sense. Everyone could see it. They not only complimented each other’s personalities but also were so in tune with each other in a way that made them a perfect team.
I was totally hooked into the mystery and suspense aspect of this book. At first things seemed a little random but as the story progressed all of the pieces made sense and I was totally invested and seeing how things would work out.
I loved getting to catch up with the rest of the dive team crew. Their group dynamic was more like family than coworkers and I loved all of their banter and the way they were always there for each other! Also Mr. Cook was awesome with his words of wisdom and his uncle-like affection.
In short this was an amazing book and I recommend it and the rest of the series to all romantic suspense lovers!

Meet the Author
Lynn H. Blackburn is the author of Beneath the Surface, In Too Deep, Hidden Legacy, and Covert Justice. Winner of the 2016 Selah Award for Mystery and Suspense, and the 2016 Carol Award for Short Novel, Blackburn believes in the power of stories, especially those that remind us that true love exists, a gift from the Truest Love. She's passionate about CrossFit, coffee, and chocolate (don't make her choose) and experimenting with recipes that feed both body and soul. She lives in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with her true love, Brian, and their three children.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

The Lieutenant's Bargain by Regina Jennings

About the Book
Hattie Walker dreams of becoming a painter, while her parents want her to settle down. As a compromise, they give her two months to head to Denver and place her works in an exhibition or give up the dream forever. Her journey is derailed when a gunman attacks her stagecoach, leaving her to be rescued by a group of Arapaho . . . but she's too terrified to recognize them as friendly.
Confirmed bachelor Lieutenant Jack Hennessey has long worked with the tribe and is tasked with trying to convince them that the mission school at Fort Reno can help their children. When a message arrives about a recovered survivor, Jack heads out to take her home--and plead his case once more.
He's stunned to run into Hattie Walker, the girl who shattered his heart--but quickly realizes he has a chance to impress her. When his plan gets tangled through translation, Jack and Hattie end up in a mess that puts her dreams in peril--and tests Jack's resolve to remain single.

My Thoughts
I have been excited for this story since the moment I found out it was going to be about Jack! I loved him in the first book and couldn’t wait for his story! I loved him even more in this story. He was adorably nerdy while being a strong soldier, he was all business about important things but had an entertaining sense of humor, and he had a strong devotion. I loved how sacrificial he was through all the crazy circumstances, even though he would have to leave his whole life he cared more about the effects on the people he loved. He could have gotten upset on more than one occasion but he always chose to look at things from the other people’s perspective.
Hattie honestly annoyed me a bit at the beginning but I enjoyed seeing her character grow. She was an only child who had always gotten what she wanted and while she wasn’t a snob her upbringing definitely showed. Life at Fort Reno gave her a new perspective and she started to see life differently. It also made her see Jack as the man he’d become instead of just her know-it-all former classmate. She took a bit to come around but I loved seeing her slowly fall in love with who Jack was not for what he could or couldn’t give her.
It was fun to see the characters from the previous stories and get to spend more time at the fort! I also enjoyed learning details about the history of that time.

This was a great read and while it does take place around Christmas I’m sure it would be enjoyable anytime of the year!

Meet the Author
Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She is the author of numerous novels, including For the Record, A Most Inconvenient Marriage, Sixty Acres and a Bride, and Caught in the Middle, and contributed a novella to A Match Made in Texas. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her husband and four children and can be found online at www.reginajennings.com.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

The Lady and the Lionheart by Joanne Bischof

About the Book
Raised amid the fame and mystique of the Big Top, Charlie Lionheart holds the audience in the palm of his hand. But while his act captivates thousands, it's away from the spotlight where his true heart lies. Here he humbly cares for his pride of lions as if they were his brothers, a skill of bravery and strength that has prepared him for his most challenging feat yet--freeing an orphaned infant from the dark bondage of a sideshow. A trade so costly, it requires his life in exchange for hers, leaving him tarnished by the price of that choice. As the circus tents are raised on the outskirts of Roanoke, nurse Ella Beckley arrives to tend to this Gypsy girl. All under the watchful eye of a guardian who not only bears a striking resemblance to the child, but who protects the baby with a love that wraps around Ella's own tragic past, awakening a hope that goodness may yet reign. When their forbidden friendship deepens, Charlie dares to ask for her heart, bringing her behind the curtain of his secret world to reveal the sacrifice that gave hope to one little girl--boldly showing Ella that while her tattered faith is deeply scarred, the only marks that need be permanent are his own.

My Thoughts
When this book came out it seemed it was all anyone (in the Christian book community) could talk about. I’m a bit ashamed at how long it took me to finally read it, but I tried to make up for it by reading all but fifty pages in one sitting. I know now what everyone was raving about and I’m ready to start raving too. This book was amazing and beautiful and just completely wonderful from start to finish. I’m starting to become a little obsessed with circus themed things especially after a certain musical came out, but this was so much more than just a circus book.
Charlie was everything. His quiet faith, the irreversible sacrifices he made for Holland, his strength, and his vulnerability. How could you not love Charlie?! My heart broke for what he had to endure, but he did it willingly and without complaint as long as it meant protecting his family. Also a man with a baby is the single most attractive thing!
Ella was wonderful too, the way she cared so deeply for people, unwilling to stand by while someone suffered even if helping came at a personal cost. What she suffered at the hands of someone she should have been able to trust made me want to weep and then go hit the louse.
I loved watching Charlie and Ella slip beneath the other’s defenses until they were both so deeply connected to each other. Neither of them expected to fall in love but they were each exactly what the other didn’t know they needed.
Everything about this novel was superb and I loved every single second. I read it while at a super late night babysitting job and the time simply flew by as I lost myself in these pages. I’m adding my recommendation to so many others out there, you absolutely need to read this book!

Meet the Author

A Carol Award and three-time Christy Award-finalist, Joanne Bischof writes deeply layered fiction that tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. She was honored to receive the SDCWG Novel of the Year Award in 2014 and in 2015 was named Author of the Year by the Mount Hermon Writer’s conference. That same year, her historical novella, This Quiet Sky, broke precedent as the first self-released title to final for the Christy Awards. To Get to You, her 2015 release, was the second. Joanne’s 2016 novel, The Lady and the Lionheart, received an extraordinary 5 Star TOP PICK! from Romantic Times Book Reviews among other critical acclaim. She is represented by Sandra Bishop of Transatlantic Literary Agency.

The Last Summer by Brandy Bruce

About the Author
For twenty-something Sara Witherspoon and her group of friends, a perfect Southern summer includes lake-house getaways, wedding planning, outdoor concerts, and a dash of romance. But for these seven friends who love each other like family, this year, summer rolls in with changes for everyone.
Sara's longtime crush, Luke, has been her best friend for as long as she has been a part of the group. When Luke begins seriously dating another of their friends, Sara's forced to deal with her hurt and jealousy, while outwardly try to support them both.
While Sara comes to terms with her own heart and her friends' relationships, an unexpected handsome pilot from North Carolina and an old flame are thrown into the mix. Knowing her heart suddenly becomes much more complicated.
But as time unfolds and friendships begin to unravel, Sara and the others are presented with the reality of what a season of change does to old friendships and new love interests.
Does growing older mean growing apart?

My Thoughts
This book wrecked me in a beautiful way. I loved it and hated it, it was wonderful and awful, basically it was abso-freakin-lutely amazing. The way it was written was so powerful and I felt every emotion like it was my very own. I cried, not out of sadness, but because it honestly felt like it was my heart breaking, not Sara’s. I literally became a part of the story. I would switch from wanting to never put it down to having to step away and catch my breath. I saw a lot of myself in Sara which made everything even more real for me, I could see myself making the exact same choices that she made.
I kept changing my mind on how I wanted the story to go but the way it ended way absolutely how it needed to be.
I loved the message woven throughout the book that we are broken humans but God can use our brokenness and we need to let the grace that He has poured out on us overflow to others. I can’t recommend this book enough and now I am extremely anxious to read the sequel!

Meet the Author
Brandy Bruce is the author of Looks Like Love and the Romano foodie series. She's worked in book publishing for more than ten years--editing, writing, reading, and making good use of online dictionaries. She's a graduate of Liberty University and currently works as a freelance book editor. She and her husband make their home in Colorado with their three children. When Brandy isn't editing manuscripts or writing novels, she loves spending time with her family, baking any kind of cheesecake, watching movies based on Jane Austen novels, or curling up with a favorite book. You can contact her through her blog at brandybruce.blogspot.com. Find her on Twitter at @BrandyBruce.

The Printed Letter Bookshop by Katherine Reay

About the Book
Love, friendship, and family find a home at the Printed Letter Bookshop
One of Madeline Cullen’s happiest childhood memories is of working with her Aunt Maddie in the quaint and cozy Printed Letter Bookshop. But by the time Madeline inherits the shop nearly twenty years later, family troubles and her own bitter losses have hardened Madeline’s heart toward her once-treasured aunt—and the now struggling bookshop left in her care.
While Madeline intends to sell the shop as quickly as possible, the Printed Letter’s two employees have other ideas. Reeling from a recent divorce, Janet finds sanctuary within the books and within the decadent window displays she creates. Claire, though quieter than the acerbic Janet, feels equally drawn to the daily rhythms of the shop and its loyal clientele, finding a renewed purpose within its walls.
When Madeline’s professional life falls apart, and a handsome gardener upends all her preconceived notions, she questions her plans and her heart. Has she been too quick to dismiss her aunt’s beloved shop? And even if she has, the women’s best combined efforts may be too little, too late.

My Thoughts
I have to start this review by saying that the writing of this book was absolutely wonderful. There’s honestly nothing bad I can say about the book itself. But sadly I didn’t personally love this one as much as I wanted to. I was expecting romance to play a bigger part but it was barely there till the end and it was definitely much more woman’s fiction than romance. Which of course there’s absolutely nothing wrong with I just prefer more romance in my stories. That is the only negative thing I have to say and it’s just a personal genre preference.
There were three heroines and each was written beautifully and you could really feel their emotions as they struggled through the hard things life threw at them. They all had growth to do and it was lovely to watch it happen.
I loved the bookshop and seeing how Maddie lived on through it and the people she loved.
Like I said this was an absolutely wonderful story I just had a genre disconnect. If you love Woman’s fiction you absolutely must check this one out!

Meet the Author
Katherine Reay is the national bestselling and award-winning author of Dear Mr. Knightley, Lizzy and Jane, The Brontë Plot, A Portrait of Emily Price, The Austen Escape, and The Printed Letter Bookshop. All Katherine’s novels are contemporary stories with a bit of classical flair. Katherine holds a BA and MS from Northwestern University, graduating Phi Beta Kappa, and isa wife, mother, former marketer, and avid chocolate consumer. After living all across the country and a few stops in Europe, Katherine now happily resides outside Chicago, IL. You can meet her at www.katherinereay.com; Facebook: KatherineReayBooks; Twitter: @katherine_reay; or Instagram: @katherinereay.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

The Spice King by Elizabeth Camden

About the Book
Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building his very successful global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Resolved to salvage his family before it spirals out of control, he returns to his ancestral home to save his brother and sister before it's too late.
As a junior botanist for the Smithsonian, Annabelle Larkin has been charged with the impossible task of gaining access to the notoriously private Delacroix plant collection. If she fails, she will be out of a job and the family farm in Kansas will go under. She has no idea that in gaining entrance to the Delacroix world, she will unwittingly step into a web of dangerous political intrigue far beyond her experience.
Unable to deny her attraction to the reclusive business tycoon, Annabelle will be forced to choose between her heart and loyalty to her country. Can Gray and Annabelle find a way through the storm of scandal without destroying the family Gray is fighting to save?

My Thoughts
With a title like The Spice King and this dark intriguing cover I was instantly interested in this book. And it didn’t hurt that it was by an author I thoroughly enjoy!
I was drawn into the story instantly and it wasn’t long before I knew Camden had another winner on her hands! This author never fails to educate me on some obscure part of history while also entertaining me with a good story and that was certainly the case with this book. It was fascinating to see the beginning stages of food companies being required to disclose ingredients. I don’t think I’ve ever thought about how that wasn’t always the case. I appreciated how all of the details about plants and spices and their origins was woven into the story in a way that never bogged it down but instead added to it.
I loved both Gray and Annabelle. They were as different as could be, one as serious as the color whose name he shares and the other a ray of sunshine. But they worked together so well and I loved their relationship. One of my favorite things was the mature way they handled some things that usually cause huge issues. Instead of cringe-worthy moments I found myself wanting to applaud them. All in all this was a fabulous read that I absolutely enjoyed and definitely recommend! Can’t wait for the rest of this series!

Meet the Author
Elizabeth Camden is best known for her historical novels set in gilded-age America featuring clever heroines and richly layered storylines. Before she was a writer, she was an academic librarian at some of the largest and smallest libraries in America, but her favorite is the continually growing library in her own home. Her novels have won the RITA and Christy Awards and have appeared on the CBA bestsellers list.She lives in Orlando, Florida, with her husband, who graciously tolerates her intimidating stockpile of books. Learn more at www.elizabethcamden.com.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano

About the Book
To save her family from financial ruin, Miss Poppy Garrison accepts an unusual proposition to participate in the New York social season in exchange for her grandmother settling a family loan that has unexpectedly come due. Ill-equipped to handle the intricacies of mingling within the New York Four Hundred, Poppy becomes embroiled in one hilarious fiasco after another, doomed to suffer a grand societal failure instead of being deemed the diamond of the first water her grandmother longs for her to become.
Reginald Blackburn, second son of a duke, has been forced to travel to America to help his cousin, Charles Wynn, Earl of Lonsdale, find an American heiress to wed in order to shore up his family estate that is in desperate need of funds. Reginald himself has no interest in finding an heiress to marry, but when Poppy's grandmother asks him to give etiquette lessons to Poppy, he swiftly discovers he may be in for much more than he bargained for.

My Thoughts
I’ve been a Jen Turano fan since day one, but after her last novel fell just a little short I will admit that I was a smidge nervous about this one. Thankfully my worry was for naught because this book was classic Jen and I loved it!
From the very first page the whirlwind of hilarity began and Poppy’s constant missteps and wit had me laughing frequently! Reginald was a fun hero, a complete gentleman and quite good at coming to Poppy’s rescue. On the outset they seemed like a very mismatched pair but soon you saw how well they balanced each other out. Poppy breaking Reginald out of his brooding and staunch rule-following. And Reginald helping to ground Poppy while also supporting her. In the end they were a wonderfully matched couple.
The best thing about a Turano book is the fact that it is just pure fun! So if you’re looking for a fast-paced book to lighten your mood definitely grab this one! And even though it’s book two, it can totally be read as a stand-alone!

Meet the Author
Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She’s been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she’s not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. She can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor/ or visit her on the web at www.jenturano.com. She is represented by the Natasha Kern Literary Agency.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

With You Here by Sarah Monzon

About the Book

Holy Roman Empire, 1527
In the wake of Martin Luther’s religious reforms, Princess Christyne von Heidelbraum is compelled by her sense of duty to help ease the burden of her people. When she stumbles upon a dying man in the woods, she vows to aid him—even when she discovers the arrow shot in his leg was put there by a heretic hunter. With both her physical and spiritual well-being in danger, she must choose between conscience or adhering to the laws of the Empire.
Present Day
Doubting her calling to become a hospital chaplain, Amber Carrington takes time off from her theology studies to volunteer with refugees in Germany. Working with children, making a difference, reconnecting with the conviction that once drove her—these were her expectations. An instant attraction to a professional soccer player wasn’t a part of the plan…and she can’t let him distract her from her purpose.
As a new Christian, Seth Marshall is determined to put his popularity as a world-renowned footballer to good use. Unfortunately, old habits and public opinions are hard to overcome. When he falls hard and fast for Amber Carrington, his former life—and her no-dating policy—may block his perfect shot for the woman he loves.

My Thoughts
Sarah Monzon was an unknown entity to me at the start of this year but after one book I became obsessed and read everything I could get my hands on! I have loved every single one of her stories and the Carrington family has found a special place in my heart. So when I reached the end of book three and realized I would have to wait for book four to release I was so sad! Thankfully I had the wonderful opportunity to be on the author’s launch team and read this gem early!
I of course loved it, that was a no-brainer! Amber and Seth were so much fun and I absolutely loved them together! From the very first moment they met the sparks were flying and I was totally on board! Seth only recently became a Christian but I really admired the way he pursued his relationship with God and how committed he was to changing his ways. He still was a little bit of a cheeky flirt with Amber and I loved that! She needed somebody who wasn’t afraid to be honest with their feelings and straight up declare their interest or she probably would never make a move in their direction. I could relate a lot of Amber’s character and could feel her inner struggle as she tried to figure out if she had heard God’s calling right. These two really just made a perfect couple, they could give as much as they took and they both had kind and generous hearts that longed to help others!
But Seth and Amber weren’t the only characters in this story since it was once again a split time novel. This time the historical storyline took place during the Reformation. I will admit that the contemporary was my favorite and I found myself wanting to get more of Seth and Amber but that in no way discounts the historical! Growing up as a homeschooled Christian you better believe we extensively studied this time in history but I haven’t read many fiction stories set during this time. Christyne and Lorenz meet kind of unconventionally and quickly bond. I enjoyed seeing Christyne’s eyes be opened to Lorenz’s faith and I could feel the emotion as she made her choice, knowing the cost.
Basically every single second of this book was beautifully written and I absolutely loved it! I’m a little sad that this series is over but I can’t wait to see what else this author has for us!

Meet the Author

A Carol award finalist and Selah award winner, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Freedom's Kiss by Sarah Monzon

About the Book

They were prisoners of the past. Could legacy be the key to set them free?
Florida, 1816
Propelled by a fleeting hope of freedom, Winnie and her family escape slavery and find refuge and new life with the Seminole Indians of Florida. But their future is still uncertain as threats of war, a return to slavery, and removal to the West shake their tentative grasp on freedom. Will they ever step out of the shadow of fear to leave a legacy of deliverance?
Florida, Present Day
Olivia Arroyo knows who she is and where she’s going—her sense of family responsibility a stepping-stone to her dream of becoming a chef. When her employer refuses her the chance to move from server to the kitchen, she makes another opportunity for herself with the owner of a new food truck. But her life derails when a hidden piece of her past suddenly comes to light, and she discovers everything she thought she knew about herself has been a lie.
A single decision can have innumerable consequences—a truth that has changed Adam Carrington’s life. A criminal defense attorney turned food truck owner, he is haunted by his role in an unpardonable act and driven by his need to make restitution. Unexpected help comes in the form of a feisty, raven-haired beauty, but she soon begins challenging his kitchen as well as his heart.

My Thoughts
I’m honestly sad that I have run out of released Carrington books and now have to wait with the rest of the world for book 4! I knew from the moment I first read this author’s writing that she was going to be a favorite of mine, and now seven stories in that is definitely still true!
Adam’s character was quite entertaining in the first two books and I could not wait to get inside his head! The case that caused him to leave the world of law really did a number on him and the guilt and pain he felt from it broke my heart. But while he struggled daily with his past he still remained the charming, teasing, and affectionate Adam we’d come to know and love!
I loved Olivia’s spunky nature and the way she bathed into Adam’s world had me smiling ear to ear! The two of them just clicked from the very beginning. They were very in tune with each other and they were exactly what each other needed. Both of them had some hard stuff to work through and the way they were just there for each other, whether it was a hug, a distraction, or a hard to truth that needed to be heard, they seemed to always know what the other needed. I seriously loved them as a couple and just wanted to keep reading scenes with them together!
Once again there was a historical story woven into the contemporary, and while this one didn’t grab me quite as much as the previous ones (with those I didn’t mind switching back and forth but with this one I found myself often wanting to get back to Adam and Olivia) I still did really enjoy it! It was a time of history I hadn’t really read about and I was intrigued by all the things that were happening. Winnie had not had an easy life but I admired the way she pressed through. Also her and Nokosi’s story was very sweet! I loved his nickname for her and the meaning behind it!
So yes this was another brilliantly amazing Carrington family story and I absolutely cannot wait for book four!

Meet the Author

A Carol award finalist and Selah award winner, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.

Foremost by Jody Hedlund

About the Book

A second princess. Another key to the treasure. And a cruel king desperate to squelch the growing rebellion.
Raised in an isolated abbey, Lady Maribel desires nothing more than to become a nun and continue practicing her healing arts. She’s carefree and happy with her life…until a visitor comes to the abbey and reveals her true identity as one of the lost princesses.
When he was a young boy, Edmund Chambers helplessly watched King Ethelwulf murder his family. Edmund escaped and has lived in the abbey ever since, uniquely trained to work with wild animals. Secretly, he loves Maribel and desperately hopes she doesn’t complete her holy order vows.
When King Ethelwulf’s army arrives at the abbey to capture Maribel, she flees with Edmund across the desolate Highlands in an attempt to reach Adelaide’s rebel army. Edmund can no longer hide his love, but can Maribel give up her dreams of becoming a nun to love him in return?

My Thoughts
I think this is my favorite of the series so far! I liked Maribel a bit more than Adelaide (not that anything was wrong with Adelaide it was just qualities that made her a good leader are also qualities that sometimes rub me wrong in heroines). I loved Maribel’s desire to help everyone, even if she was a little laser focused at times. Edmund was a great hero, he had more of a quiet strength and his ability to communicate with animals was kinda cool. I felt bad for him as he wrestled with loving Maribel even though it looked like it was doomed to be unrequited but I also admired the way he didn’t force his feelings on Maribel. Even though it was torture he’d rather live with the pain than take her away from what she thought she wanted.
It was fun to see Adelaide and Christopher again and to see them get one step closer to defeating the evil king! Can’t wait to get the end of the story and meet Emmeline!

Meet the Author
Jody Hedlund is the author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).
When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

All of You by Sarah Monzon

About the Book
Sometimes the past reaches forward to bring hope to the future.
England, 1944
With the world at war yet again, Alice Galloway rejects her father’s traditional expectations and offers her piloting expertise to the Air Transport Auxiliary. She may be a woman in a man’s world, but when she overhears key intelligence, she must find the strength to transcend boundaries and her own fears...or countless people may die.
Maryland, Present Day
Jacquelyn Rogers can rebuild anything...except the shambles of her past. A restorer of vintage planes, she's worked hard to earn the reputation of being one of the guys. The last thing she needs is a cocky former Navy pilot fighting his own inner demons stepping in to defend her from dangers she thought she’d outrun long ago. Some battles must be fought alone.
After a freak accident severs Lieutenant Michael “Finch” Carrington’s military dreams, as well as two limbs, he’s left with nothing but a fragile faith and a duty-bound promise to watch out for his friend’s baby sister. A promise she insists is as unnecessary as it is unappreciated. But when she turns the tables and begins to weld together the broken parts of his life, it may be his heart that is in need of protection.

My Thoughts
Goodness this book was even better than the first and that one was off the charts amazing so you can only imagine how good this one is! Michael. Oh where to begin? He was a hero in every sense of the word. He fought for our country but was humble about it and even though he was dealt a horrid blow because of a freak accident I admired how he was determined not to let the darkness win. Yes he had questions for God, and yes he got upset at his situation, but he fought to find the positives and search for God’s purpose through it all.
I also loved Jack. She was a smart, strong, independent woman, but wasn’t a jerk about that fact. Yes her brothers’ overprotectiveness grated on her but she was also able to see that it came from love.
Both Michael and Jack saw themselves as less than ideal but they saw all the good in each other. And I loved watching them help the other person see the good in themselves. They were so great together and even though someone was being pigheaded, the sparks were undeniable!
The historical WWII story was also amazing! I loved Alice’s spunk and the budding relationship between her and Henry!
The two stories flowed seamlessly and it was so cool to see how they connected in the end!

Meet the Author

A Carol award finalist and Selah award winner, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.

Finders Keepers by Sarah Monzon

About the Book
He’s looking for fortune. She’s looking for fame. Together, they find an adventure that spans centuries—and a love story for the ages.
Spain, 1689
The same evil that stole her mother’s life stalks Isabella Castellano. Afraid for her safety, Isabella disguises herself as a cabin boy and hires on to one of His Majesty’s treasure fleet vessels. But has her flight from a known threat only led her to be ensnared in a sea of dangers?
Florida, Present Day
Marine photographer Summer Arnet will go anywhere to capture the perfect shot--even dive into waters haunted by great white sharks, if it will help get her work noticed. When a treasure hunter with a ladies-man reputation approaches her about a sunken ship, she’s all ears. This may be her best shot at launching her career…if his charming smile doesn’t derail her first.
A childhood tragedy has left a hole in Trent Carrington’s life—one he’s tried to fill with women, money, and adventure. When Summer doesn't fall for his charms, he's even more determined to win her over.
As the pair plunge into the mystery of the shipwreck, stakes escalate, and both wounded hearts become entangled in a romance they weren't expecting. The hunt for treasure is no longer a game of fortune and fame.
It’s no longer a game at all.

My Thoughts
Part of me is mad at myself for not discovering this author sooner, the other part of me is delighted that I have a backlog to read! This is my fifth story from her and every single thing I’ve read has been absolutely amazing!
Split-time books can be tricky but the stories flowed seamlessly back and forth and I never once got lost as to which timeline I was in.
I loved all of the characters and was completely invested in both stories. Trent was a little cocky but on him it was charming. His shameless flirting to get a rise out of Summer brought many a smile to my face! I absolutely loved Trent and Summer together, their banter with each other was hilarious and the sparks between them were undeniable! Neither of them were following God as the book began and it was cool to see the way God drew them to Himself.
The historical story was riveting. Isabella didn’t have an easy life but I admired her determination to do what she had to do to make her own way in the world. I loved the relationship between Isabella and Captain Montoya and I wish we could have seen more of their life together!
Basically I loved this book and I’m going to immediately start book two!

Meet the Author

A Carol award finalist and Selah award winner, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.

The Words Between Us by Erin Bartels

About the Book
Robin Windsor has spent much of her life under an assumed name to avoid association with her infamous parents. She thought she'd finally found sanctuary running her used bookstore in quiet River City, Michigan. But when she receives an eerily familiar book in the mail on the morning of her father's scheduled execution, Robin is thrown back to the summer she met Peter Flynt, the perfect boy who ruined everything. Why would Peter be making contact now? And why does she have a sinking feeling that she's about to be exposed all over again?

With evocative prose that recalls the classic novels we love, Erin Bartels pens a story that shows that words--the ones we say, the ones we read, and the ones we write--have more power than we imagine.

My Thoughts
I love trying new authors, hoping to stumble on a new favorite! This book was a complete gamble for me but with a cover like this how could anyone resist?! Seriously this cover is the stuff every book lover dreams about!

Sadly the story inside just wasn’t my cup of tea and I didn’t end up finishing. The writing was well done and had a similar feel of some classics that I’ve read! There was a lot of death talk and it just was a little too far on the dark side for me. That being said I know that this book will be just the book for many readers and if it sounds like it might be up your alley please don’t take my word for it and go check out some other reviews!

Meet the Author
Erin Bartels is the author of We Hope for Better Things and has been a publishing professional for 17 years. A freelance writer and editor, she is a member of Capital City Writers and the Women's Fiction Writers Association and is former features editor of WFWA's Write On! magazine. Her short story "This Elegant Ruin" was a finalist in The Saturday Evening Post 2014 Great American Fiction Contest. She grew up in the Bay City, Michigan, area and has spent much of her life waiting on drawbridges. She lives in Lansing, Michigan, with her husband, Zachary, and their son. Find her online at www.erinbartels.com.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Finding Lady Enderly by Joanna Davidson Politano

About the Book
Raina Bretton is a rag woman in London's east end when a handsome stranger appears in a dank alley and offers her a glittering smile and a chance for adventure. Rothburne Abbey has a unique position for her, one that will take her away from her hardscrabble life and give her a chance to be a lady. Things she could only dream of might be coming true. But some dreams turn out to be nightmares.
Though Raina has traded squalor for silk and satin, something about the abbey is deeply unsettling. As she wrestles with her true identity, the ruin, decay, and secrets she finds at the heart of the old mansion tear at her confidence and threaten to reveal her for who she really is. Only one man stands between her and the danger that lurks within--and only if he decides to keep her biggest secret hidden.

My Thoughts
Ever since her debut I have been hearing good things about this author. And at the urging of my bookstabestie I requested this one for review and purchased her debut novel. The debut was everything I was told it would be and it made me quite excited to read this one.
Sadly I was a little underwhelmed by this story. It wasn’t that it was bad or anything I just wasn’t in love like I was with Lady Jane Disappears. The author’s beautiful writing style still shone through, and I was again charmed by her way with words. Raina wasn’t my favorite heroine, especially with how she not only allowed herself to be entrapped in this weird situation but also got sucked into the materialistic mindset a bit.
Sully was great, his devotion to Raina and his humble attitude made him a character you could root for. I especially liked their unique way of communicating.
I can honestly say I was surprised with how things ended and the secrets that were revealed, I did not see any of them coming.
All in all this wasn’t a bad read just not a favorite of mine. I will definitely be interested to see what else the author has in store for us!

Meet the Author
Joanna Davidson Politano is the award-winning author of Lady Jayne Disappears and A Rumored Fortune. She freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two babies in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan and shares stories that move her at www.jdpstories.com.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Evermore by Jody Hedlund

About the Book

An ancient key. A secret treasure. And a princess destined to use them both to fight evil and restore peace.
Raised by a noble family, Lady Adelaide has always known she’s an orphan. Little does she realize she’s one of the lost princesses and the true heir to Mercia’s throne…until a visitor arrives at her family estate, reveals her birthright as queen, and thrusts her into a quest for the throne whether she’s ready or not.
Unable to tolerate King Ethelwulf’s cruelty and lawlessness, Christopher Langley left Mercia years earlier, training a group of rebels in neighboring Norland. When he returns home after his mother’s death, he discovers that not only is Adelaide all grown up, but she’s also the rightful queen of Mercia.
When King Ethelwulf discovers Adelaide’s location, he’ll stop at nothing to capture her and the key she holds to the ancient treasure. Christopher is just as determined to protect Adelaide so she can lead the growing rebellion. When feelings ignite between the two old friends, forces threaten to destroy their love and rip them apart forever.

My Thoughts
This was a great follow-up to the prequel novella! Adelaide was a character you could rally behind, she was definitely queen material. She had a combination of strength and fighting ability with a kind and generous heart. Christopher was a good complement to her, especially since they'd grown-up together so he wasn't cowed by her new found royal status and he wasn't afraid to stand up to her when the situation called for it. Their romance was sweet and I enjoyed watching them reconnect as adults and seeing them reconnect. The other brother, Mitchell, wasn't my favorite character, especially when he got petty. But he wasn't all bad.
Hedlund does a great job of transporting you to her medieval world, without bogging you down with details, and keeping you hooked into the story. Everything moved at a pretty fast pace and kept you turning pages to find out what was gonna happen next. It was definitely written to gear toward the YA market and I know teens will love this story! I enjoyed it even though I'm a few years past my teens!

Meet the Author
Jody Hedlund is the author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award.
Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).
When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.