Calling all Joyce DiPastena fans!!! (all others are welcome too!) Here's a short story for you to enjoy in a single sitting and to either get you exciCalling all Joyce DiPastena fans!!! (all others are welcome too!) Here's a short story for you to enjoy in a single sitting and to either get you excited to read her full length novel, The Lady and the Minstrel, or give you a short glimpse into the very first meeting of the two main characters from that book.
It is a short story so just remember that it's only one scene, but oh so worth the time to read it. I think it took about a half hour, give or take, so more than just one or two minutes. I will admit that I haven't read The Lady and the Minstrel but I am ready to dive in and enjoy it. I love Joyce's writing style and her characters. Very true charismatic and knightly and ladylike. So all you medieval lovers out there I highly recommend reading her books. I've read several of her short stories/novellas from different collections and have loved them.
By the way, go grab a copy for yourself! I received an ARC from the author but went and snagged my own copy from Amazon....it's a freebie that she plans to keep free so bonus for a great short, sweet and free read!!! Enjoy!
Content: Clean
Happy Reading!!!
Merged review:
Calling all Joyce DiPastena fans!!! (all others are welcome too!) Here's a short story for you to enjoy in a single sitting and to either get you excited to read her full length novel, The Lady and the Minstrel, or give you a short glimpse into the very first meeting of the two main characters from that book.
It is a short story so just remember that it's only one scene, but oh so worth the time to read it. I think it took about a half hour, give or take, so more than just one or two minutes. I will admit that I haven't read The Lady and the Minstrel but I am ready to dive in and enjoy it. I love Joyce's writing style and her characters. Very true charismatic and knightly and ladylike. So all you medieval lovers out there I highly recommend reading her books. I've read several of her short stories/novellas from different collections and have loved them.
By the way, go grab a copy for yourself! I received an ARC from the author but went and snagged my own copy from Amazon....it's a freebie that she plans to keep free so bonus for a great short, sweet and free read!!! Enjoy!
This was a fun romp back to all the craziness and hard moments of being a teenager. So many choices, how will your friends, your enemies and just randThis was a fun romp back to all the craziness and hard moments of being a teenager. So many choices, how will your friends, your enemies and just random people at school interpret what you say, do, how you dress, act, or how you don't do any of those things. I can honestly say that I'm glad I'm way past those moments. Susan Hatler did such a great job portraying all of those moments and especially the emotions and the consequences that circle round and round. How those consequences, unbeknownst to many, have many effects on people you wouldn't think, or on many more than just the one, single, individual you thought it would.
Reading this brought back some of those emotions and consequences that I experienced. Ah those fun learning moments that sometimes make us feel like the world is going to come crashing down....but wait, the world doesn't, it keeps on spinning round and round even through all our moments.
To become an advice columnist....hmmmm...what better way to get out all your thoughts and feelings and just state it like it is for whoever wants to ask you a question for their troubles? Yes, that's the perfect thing for Miss Poppy Rose Pinkleton to do.
After getting the ok from her teacher to use the advice column as a psychology experiment and receive credit for doing it, Poppy is taken on a whirlwind adventure. She soon learns that sometimes having carte blanc to say what you want(most in a positive and kind way) can cause undue stress, create ripples to all those around you, but most importantly affect herself in many ways she never thought would happen. How can she show everyone who she really is, instead of this quiet obedient child, but someone who has desires and an opinion and is funny. She's not a geek just because she's smart but unfortunately school life has not been too kindly to Poppy for many years. She must learn to step up and be her true self even if that means coming out of her comfort zone and having real conversations with real people. But at what cost? Will her alter ego be discovered by the students at school? Or can she keep her cover and solve all the world's problems while doing so? Clarke Kent eat your heart out, here comes Aubrey, err, Poppy, errr SuperPoppy!
There's drama and romance, hidden identities, lies, truths, heartache, crushes, love, relationships, sports, anger, and all around high school times to be had when reading this novel. It may cause some nostalgia for your own days as a teenager in school...hopefully not all crazy and hard but some good too.
Life has been busy and nonstop going that when I had a quiet day today, I decided to enjoy and fly through several review books. I read straight through this one with no pausing and really enjoyed it. I've read several other of Susan Hatler's adult fiction books but this was my first YA book by her and I have to say she was just as good writing in this genre as her other books. I will definitely continue reading her books from these different genres.
Content: Great clean read, with a few kisses, and one I'd recommend for teens who need something, or someone(Dear Aubrey) to relate to, and answer a few of life's questions for those tentative years of life, learning and growing. I'd also recommend for adults who love to read YA, especially for those adults who work around teens(I know it's written by an adult woman but it's spot on-IMO).
I received a copy from Hatco publishing in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Merged review:
This was a fun romp back to all the craziness and hard moments of being a teenager. So many choices, how will your friends, your enemies and just random people at school interpret what you say, do, how you dress, act, or how you don't do any of those things. I can honestly say that I'm glad I'm way past those moments. Susan Hatler did such a great job portraying all of those moments and especially the emotions and the consequences that circle round and round. How those consequences, unbeknownst to many, have many effects on people you wouldn't think, or on many more than just the one, single, individual you thought it would.
Reading this brought back some of those emotions and consequences that I experienced. Ah those fun learning moments that sometimes make us feel like the world is going to come crashing down....but wait, the world doesn't, it keeps on spinning round and round even through all our moments.
To become an advice columnist....hmmmm...what better way to get out all your thoughts and feelings and just state it like it is for whoever wants to ask you a question for their troubles? Yes, that's the perfect thing for Miss Poppy Rose Pinkleton to do.
After getting the ok from her teacher to use the advice column as a psychology experiment and receive credit for doing it, Poppy is taken on a whirlwind adventure. She soon learns that sometimes having carte blanc to say what you want(most in a positive and kind way) can cause undue stress, create ripples to all those around you, but most importantly affect herself in many ways she never thought would happen. How can she show everyone who she really is, instead of this quiet obedient child, but someone who has desires and an opinion and is funny. She's not a geek just because she's smart but unfortunately school life has not been too kindly to Poppy for many years. She must learn to step up and be her true self even if that means coming out of her comfort zone and having real conversations with real people. But at what cost? Will her alter ego be discovered by the students at school? Or can she keep her cover and solve all the world's problems while doing so? Clarke Kent eat your heart out, here comes Aubrey, err, Poppy, errr SuperPoppy!
There's drama and romance, hidden identities, lies, truths, heartache, crushes, love, relationships, sports, anger, and all around high school times to be had when reading this novel. It may cause some nostalgia for your own days as a teenager in school...hopefully not all crazy and hard but some good too.
Life has been busy and nonstop going that when I had a quiet day today, I decided to enjoy and fly through several review books. I read straight through this one with no pausing and really enjoyed it. I've read several other of Susan Hatler's adult fiction books but this was my first YA book by her and I have to say she was just as good writing in this genre as her other books. I will definitely continue reading her books from these different genres.
Content: Great clean read, with a few kisses, and one I'd recommend for teens who need something, or someone(Dear Aubrey) to relate to, and answer a few of life's questions for those tentative years of life, learning and growing. I'd also recommend for adults who love to read YA, especially for those adults who work around teens(I know it's written by an adult woman but it's spot on-IMO).
I received a copy from Hatco publishing in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Talk about edge of your seat and heart pounding action. I love this series! Each book is power packed with lots of action, suspense, history and romanTalk about edge of your seat and heart pounding action. I love this series! Each book is power packed with lots of action, suspense, history and romance. I love how the author weaves together the historical aspects with the modern story to create a fantastic read. I honestly was holding my breath during several moments of this book. The chapters switch between Omar, Aamira and Eleanor(Nadia) and as much as I hate jumping ahead because I don't want to skip any details.....I jumped several chapters ahead to find out what came next for one character. I just read the first paragraph and thought, phew she's safe, then turned back to where I was in the book. But once I reached the chapter where I thought the character was safe, ahhhhhhh, I was completely thrown for a loop! Don't make any assumptions until the very end of the book!
The opening scenes in each of the books in this series grab your attention and hook you into the story where you are on edge watching for certain characters and what is going to happen to them. I keep starting to type out some info about a character and then find myself quickly erasing it because everything that I want to say leads into a spoiler and this is a book you don't want spoiled! I want to tell you about Aamira but everything I start to say leads into that spoiler I was talking about. I will tell you that's she's been away at University in England and is scheduled to go home with her father right away. From there it's just this interconnected, nonstop, reveal after reveal that unravels some of the best laid plans and hidden secrets.
Omar, well Omar is the same Omar that we love from the other books(I'm assuming you've read the other books and know about his reckless but smart but crazy stunts-if you haven't well that pretty much sums him up, but he's so much more than that). I really like Omar's character. He's witty, shows emotion, is very devoted, cares for others, a great protector, smart and just crazy(good crazy). If you've read the other books, I have one word for you...Helicopter. That's Omar for you! If you haven't read the other books, you're in for some fun with whichever book you pick up first.
Eleanor's historical story was sooooooooo GOOD! I know it's historical fiction but I love how the author can create characters or bring to life historical figures and write their stories in such a way that endears them to us readers(me especially). I kept hoping that there was a different outcome in parts of Eleanor's story. Near the beginning the modern characters talk about her life in a very brief synopsis type way. So you know going into the unveiling of Eleanor, and the further delving into her life what is coming. But I kept wishing it could change just a little. Even with that wish, it still was very well written and kept me excited waiting for her chapters.
Very well written, great characters, perfect intensity, fantastic read!!! I highly recommend this book and this series to anyone who enjoys a historical fiction with lots of action and some romance. Being part of a series, I would recommend reading them in order but if you haven't and just want to dive into this one, I think you'd be fine. The author writes it in such a way that you're not getting a whole overview of previous books but enough little tidbits scattered throughout to know backstories of the main characters from the series.
Content: Clean. Some violence including war in the ancient chapters with some executions, men fighting, modern chapters have gun fights, tribal wars and fast paced chases, but nothing graphic. Romance wise some kissing and a fade to black scene with a married couple.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Merged review:
Talk about edge of your seat and heart pounding action. I love this series! Each book is power packed with lots of action, suspense, history and romance. I love how the author weaves together the historical aspects with the modern story to create a fantastic read. I honestly was holding my breath during several moments of this book. The chapters switch between Omar, Aamira and Eleanor(Nadia) and as much as I hate jumping ahead because I don't want to skip any details.....I jumped several chapters ahead to find out what came next for one character. I just read the first paragraph and thought, phew she's safe, then turned back to where I was in the book. But once I reached the chapter where I thought the character was safe, ahhhhhhh, I was completely thrown for a loop! Don't make any assumptions until the very end of the book!
The opening scenes in each of the books in this series grab your attention and hook you into the story where you are on edge watching for certain characters and what is going to happen to them. I keep starting to type out some info about a character and then find myself quickly erasing it because everything that I want to say leads into a spoiler and this is a book you don't want spoiled! I want to tell you about Aamira but everything I start to say leads into that spoiler I was talking about. I will tell you that's she's been away at University in England and is scheduled to go home with her father right away. From there it's just this interconnected, nonstop, reveal after reveal that unravels some of the best laid plans and hidden secrets.
Omar, well Omar is the same Omar that we love from the other books(I'm assuming you've read the other books and know about his reckless but smart but crazy stunts-if you haven't well that pretty much sums him up, but he's so much more than that). I really like Omar's character. He's witty, shows emotion, is very devoted, cares for others, a great protector, smart and just crazy(good crazy). If you've read the other books, I have one word for you...Helicopter. That's Omar for you! If you haven't read the other books, you're in for some fun with whichever book you pick up first.
Eleanor's historical story was sooooooooo GOOD! I know it's historical fiction but I love how the author can create characters or bring to life historical figures and write their stories in such a way that endears them to us readers(me especially). I kept hoping that there was a different outcome in parts of Eleanor's story. Near the beginning the modern characters talk about her life in a very brief synopsis type way. So you know going into the unveiling of Eleanor, and the further delving into her life what is coming. But I kept wishing it could change just a little. Even with that wish, it still was very well written and kept me excited waiting for her chapters.
Very well written, great characters, perfect intensity, fantastic read!!! I highly recommend this book and this series to anyone who enjoys a historical fiction with lots of action and some romance. Being part of a series, I would recommend reading them in order but if you haven't and just want to dive into this one, I think you'd be fine. The author writes it in such a way that you're not getting a whole overview of previous books but enough little tidbits scattered throughout to know backstories of the main characters from the series.
Content: Clean. Some violence including war in the ancient chapters with some executions, men fighting, modern chapters have gun fights, tribal wars and fast paced chases, but nothing graphic. Romance wise some kissing and a fade to black scene with a married couple.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Oh, this secret collection is great! I've loved reading these Secret Billionaire stories by a favorite author! Billionaire stories are pretty popular Oh, this secret collection is great! I've loved reading these Secret Billionaire stories by a favorite author! Billionaire stories are pretty popular right now and if you're enjoying them and are a fan this is one that I have loved the books in the series! Definitely one I'd highly recommend.
I'm going to put links for each of my reviews for the three books in this collection. The content is listed at the end of each review. Kimberley Montpetit is a go to author for me. I love, love, love her books!
This is a great new collection of Rachelle Christensen's books. You get the beginning book for several differentOverall rating for the collection 4.5*
This is a great new collection of Rachelle Christensen's books. You get the beginning book for several different series. A great way to get a taste of her different series and have a fun group of novels in different genres to read and enjoy. I'm going to put a link to my review of each book. So you can read them all or pick and choose. Content will be listed in each individual review but I will say that Rachelle Christensen is a go to author for me and has always been a clean reads author. She's great at writing mystery, suspense, and sweet romance! Enjoy!
~I read this when it was originally released last year. This is a new cover.~
Have you read the blurb for this book? I did! And I was hooked! I couldn'~I read this when it was originally released last year. This is a new cover.~
Have you read the blurb for this book? I did! And I was hooked! I couldn't wait! Bought myself a copy! Swiped to the first page and again...hooked! Especially when Chloe and Agent Liam Esposito see each other for the first time. Hello! Talk about explosions. Okay, maybe explosions might not be the best descriptive word there, then again it might be. But when two people who have been letting off fireworks (and avoiding said fireworks because of a work relationship), have a falling out (a pretty serious falling out), and suddenly find themselves face to face again...definitely explosions. Of course those explosions aren't necessarily visible to everyone else in the room, but most definitely recognized by the two creating the explosions. And, did I mention the falling out? So again, not necessarily the best type of explosions. More like anger, hurt, betrayal, I want to seriously come after you and let all my frustrations out on you, type explosions. Don't worry, no agents were hurt in the making of said explosions. ;-)
Chloe has spent the last year of her life picking up the pieces, and honestly hiding them and the hurt deep down inside. The last person she wants anything to do with has suddenly reappeared in her life. Not only that, but the fun keeps coming, she gets to work with him again to protect her cousin.
Chloe's character was fun to read. The mystery surrounding the event where her friend was killed keeps surfacing. She is grieving. She's trying to move on with life and do something that makes her happy and uses her skills, but not everyone thinks she should be an 'undercover bridesmaid'. Chloe loves helping brides by being hired to help with any little thing they need, but most importantly to help remove the nerves and stress that can come with a wedding. I loved watching her in that role for her cousin and the little asides we'd get about different weddings/brides she'd helped. I also really enjoyed watching her interact with the myriad of characters in the book. It was fun seeing how she handled different situations.
There was quite a bit happening throughout the book. FBI, jewel thieves, Chloe learning how to identify diamonds, keeping a bride happy, avoiding a very handsome agent who is too charming-ummm scratch that, he's trouble-, lots of family dynamics (all fun, especially the grandma-hee hee), and trying to discover the who, why and what of everything before the wedding happens and trouble strikes.
I was trying to piece together all the little clues that I could pull out of the story for who the bad guy was. Surprisingly, I guessed right! It's actually not very obvious, the author did a great job casting doubt on multiple characters and leaving little breadcrumbs for us readers to follow if you're paying attention. Very well done!
The grandma was cracking me up throughout the book. She reminded me of both of my grandmothers, both of whom passed away years ago. While reading, I was thinking back to my wedding and one of my grandmas wanting to have a snowball fight with me and my husband, because well, we're all a bunch of teases. She decided not to because we were all dressed up but she was really tempted since it was the first snow of the season and she loved a good snowball fight. Well, jump ahead a couple weeks later and we were at another wedding and another great snowfall had happened. As we were walking to the cars, my grandma pulled me aside, picked up a handful of snow, made it into a snowball and grinned at me as she sneakily went up to my hubby and nailed him. Oh, it was awesome and a cherished memory. My hubby's face...total shock that sweet little grandma would catch him unsuspecting, then he realized the snowball fight was on. Chloe's grandma has some great comedic relief lines and is full of spunk. A great character for sure!
I'd be remiss if I didn't say that I loved all the moments between Chloe and Liam. Yes, I said explosions earlier in my review referencing these two, and yes, there are explosions throughout that have to do with these two. And I loved every minute of it. I didn't want to set this book down, and I honestly didn't want it to end either. I need more Chloe and Liam please! Oh, maybe a little novella about them when they first met???? Just throwing that out there. Hee Hee!
I was a very happy reader with how everything came resolved in this book. If you enjoy clean romance, suspense, humor, weddings, not too crazy brides and a whole lot of family and fun...then I highly recommend this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it!!!
Content: Clean. A few moments of peril but nothing graphic. Kissing but nothing more.
I loved this collection! Scroll down for links to reviews of individual books. If you don't want to look at each of them then I'll say it here for youI loved this collection! Scroll down for links to reviews of individual books. If you don't want to look at each of them then I'll say it here for you...I love Kimberley Montpetit's writing and the characters for Snow Valley are fabulous! I've fallen in love with them. And reading each book, being able to head back to this cozy little town and the people is just awesome! Her books are all clean but if you're wondering, I also have a content section at the end of each book's review so feel free to check those out. I especially love the books with Jessica and James. Their love story was fabulous! Enjoy!
Don't know what happened but my review wasn't showing up on GR. I knew I had written one. Couldn't find it. Seriously thought I was losing my mind. SeDon't know what happened but my review wasn't showing up on GR. I knew I had written one. Couldn't find it. Seriously thought I was losing my mind. Searched Amazon and low and behold...ta dah! There it is. I knew it! Now why isn't it on GR?????? I'm more than 100% positive that I posted it. Oh well. It's here now. This was a book I read last year and was thinking about because there's a new collection coming out soon. Yay!!!!! And let me say that I am super excited about all the contributing authors....Ok I'll stop but feel free to check out my review for this book below and get ready for the Destination Romances: Resort Collection. Woot Woot!!!!
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Talk about some intrigue, sweet and spicy romance (clean), mystery and laying it all on the line. Yep this was a fantastic read that had me hooked from the beginning. To be honest, I've actually been anticipating this one for a little while after reading the beginning of Layla and Tyler's story in the book Kiss Me in the Moonlight. There was not a lot of page time for these two in that book but definitely enough that had me hoping and wishing that Layla and Tyler would have another appearance with lots of page time. This is part of the Destined for Love series and the destination this time is Mansions. So get ready for 6 new novellas all featured at some location with an awesome mansion.
Layla has just returned home from her summer in Europe (tour guides for teens and where she met Tyler) to discover the family finances are in major trouble. Cypress Grove is her home and the only life she's ever known. Her family has run the mansion for as long as she can remember. Helping decorate, plan events and hosting is in her blood. But finding out that it all might be gone, she's shocked and agrees to a scheme to help save her family home and livelihood. Will it be worth it? Especially when the one man she loves comes to town to finally see if what they had in Europe was real. Will she be able to pretend now that he's here?
Oh I loved these two characters. Layla was a sassy, no nonsense, fun, flirty and loveable character in the previous book and I wanted to know more about her. Well this book definitely dives write into her life, thoughts, feelings and struggles. Plus bring in Tyler and we start to understand why he acted the way he did in Europe. Ok, I know not all of you reading this have probably read Kiss Me in the Moonlight but no worries if you haven't. This book can definitely be a stand alone, so you're safe. It's just fun knowing how Tyler and Layla met and seeing their relationship finally start to progress.
Lots of sparks were flying off my kindle. Zing, Zap, Sizzle...it was awesome. These two have great chemistry and let me tell you the mystery/suspense added a great dimension to the story. I had my guesses as to whodunit but wasn't 100% sure until near the end. Layla wasn't afraid to dig in and get dirty to find out what was going on. Tyler was the solid rock who kept plugging away and trying to figure out if his sacrifice(s) was worth it.
Tyler you go get her!
I loved the setting, the characters, the romance, the mystery, the mansion, the old victorian, the bridge, the rain, the pond, the pictures (ahhhhhh, happy, happy sigh). Yeah it was a great read if you can't tell. Grab it! I dare you not to have a permagrin while reading this one because I sure did. I'm even smiling big right now as I'm writing this thinking about it all. Hee Hee!
I love Dr. Seuss. Ever since I was a little girl and first having my mom read books to me then figuring out how to read, Dr. Seuss has been a staple iI love Dr. Seuss. Ever since I was a little girl and first having my mom read books to me then figuring out how to read, Dr. Seuss has been a staple in my reading diet. I remember one friend growing up was always talking about Dr. Seuss and celebrating his birthday. We didn't do anything in school to celebrate and I only know it was his birthday because this friend's mom loved Dr. Seuss and taught elementary school.
So flash forward many years and I love going to my daughter's elementary school on March 2 and seeing all the ways they celebrate Theodore Geisel's birthday. It's great and I think well deserved.
I can't really say that I have an absolute favorite but this one is definitely up there (there's just so many that I love and adore).
When my husband was changing jobs he had one of his co-workers give him a copy and it's one that we enjoy reading from time to time with the family. I thought this was a fitting book to read before the new year starts. Great message and reminder that there's so much potential, all we have to do is go. And, yes there will be struggles, but what we do when those struggles come is what's important. There are ups and downs and all arounds but we need to just keep Going and "Oh, the places [we'll] go!"
I can't forget to mention all the wonderful artwork. Another reason why Dr. Seuss is a favorite author and illustrator!
Here are my favorite lines from the book...
Congratulations! Today is your day. You're off to Great Places! You're off and away! You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes.
With your head full of brains and your shoes full of feet
Out there things can happen and frequently do to people as brainy and footsy as you.
Except when you don't. Because, sometimes, you won't
You'll get mixed up, of course, as you already know...Just never forget to be dexterous and deft. And never mix up your right foot with your left
And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)
So...be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O'Shea, you're off to Great Places! Today is your day!
This is a book that is a family tradition started many, many years ago. My mom bought it one Christmas when I was a teenager, and since then has purchThis is a book that is a family tradition started many, many years ago. My mom bought it one Christmas when I was a teenager, and since then has purchased it for each of my siblings and their families. I loved the story as a youth and still to this day feel the same about it. So, not only was it a tradition when I was a teenager and still living at home with my parents, but it has carried on to be a tradition to read Christmas Eve with my husband and daughters.
We love it and no Christmas Eve is complete without having my daughters ask, "When is it time to read 'The Littlest Angel?'"
The illustrations are absolutely stunning and draw my eyes in every time. Each page we have to take time to look at them as if we haven't seen them before. Sweet and tender story.
If you need a quick, sweet, touching and tender story, this one definitely would fit the bill. I picked it up thinking I'd read it a little before bedIf you need a quick, sweet, touching and tender story, this one definitely would fit the bill. I picked it up thinking I'd read it a little before bedtime and found that I couldn't put it down. It was a pretty fast read for me and one that I enjoyed lots.
I saw the author's newsletter last week and she mentioned the background for writing this novel and I knew instantly that I wanted to read it. From all the thoughts and feelings she put into her story of why, the actual reading of the story did not disappoint. I loved it! I loved the characters! I loved the sweet romance! It's just one of those great feel good stories and yet it shows depth of characters, growth, healing, sorrow and love throughout. All that leaves you cheering each character on and wishing and hoping for the best.
Super sweet and definitely one I'd re-read and recommend!
Content: Clean. Some kissing scenes but nothing further. Talk about childhood cancer.
A fun medieval retelling of Cinderella. I really enjoyed the twists that the author gave to the story to make it her own.
It was fun to see characters A fun medieval retelling of Cinderella. I really enjoyed the twists that the author gave to the story to make it her own.
It was fun to see characters from previous books in this Hagenheim series. Lots of danger and peril for Gisela but her "prince" Valten was always there to protect her. Sweet love story. If any of you have read and enjoyed Marcia Lynn McClure's book A Crimson Frost, then you'll sure enjoy this one. I loved the tournament aspects in here, which definitely showed Valten's amazingness, but also showed his true feelings towards Gisela.
I did feel that some of the peril that kept happening, just kept happening. Does that make sense? They would be in a situation of danger and escape and then captive again and escape and...that probably makes more sense. It built up the story but some readers might not like the amount of time the book spent of that happening, others won't mind it.
Overall, I really enjoyed it! I'm reading this as part of a box set which includes the first 5 Hagenheim books. Love them so far, my favorite so far is The Merchant's Daughter.
Content: Clean. Some fighting but nothing overly graphic. Some sweet kisses.
I love Jessica and James! Their love story was beautiful. Lots of ups and downs with the need to heal from past wounds. Plenty of chemistry and sparksI love Jessica and James! Their love story was beautiful. Lots of ups and downs with the need to heal from past wounds. Plenty of chemistry and sparks throughout. I love so many different scenes throughout the story with these two. This new collection with two novels about Jessica and James' meeting (which is very swoon worthy), their growing friendship, dating, falling in love and becoming engaged to the new bonus of their wedding is fabulous! All of the ballet scenes and dancing were very well written and had me grinning.
Those who have read the two books before they were put together in this set are in for a wonderful surprise when they read the wedding story. Those who haven't read it before are definitely in for a wonderful surprise from the first encounter of Jessica and James to the final kiss. I absolutely loved it! And there's a great bonus within the wedding story for us readers which has me actually really hoping for possibly another little break off story???? Maybe? I can't give away any names but I will tell you that there's another couple who we've watched from the beginning book who have a fun surprise. I love the playful banter between Jessica and James in the wedding story. So fun and sweet. Took me back many years ago when my hubby and I were getting ready for our wedding and all the love and excitement. Ah, young, sweet love.
All those Happily Ever After lovers out there, this is a story for you to grab, snuggle up with a comfy blanket and get lost in the love story of two characters who are not perfect but growing, healing and learning to love and be loved. Be warned that you might just be sucked into it and not want to set it down or to say goodbye to these characters once the final page has been read.
I can't recommend this one enough.
If anybody wants to read my thoughts about the first two books more in depth you can read my reviews for them here...Risking it all for Love (book 1) and Sealed with a Kiss (book 2).
Content: Clean. Some mild religious aspects, death and healing. Sweet kisses but nothing further.
Cute Meet alert!!! You have just been warned...within the pages there is a cute, cute meet. And it involves dogs. How can you not like that? Ok, I'm aCute Meet alert!!! You have just been warned...within the pages there is a cute, cute meet. And it involves dogs. How can you not like that? Ok, I'm a dog lover (animal lover really) and I just loved all the moments with the cute little puppy Roxie. And yes there are some not so cute moments. Like when she chews up stuff she shouldn't, or makes a mess or...you get the idea. Especially if you've ever had a puppy. This puppy is a handful but she's still stinkin' cute! My puppy is pretty cute too, but not really a puppy anymore, she's 4 1/2 years old. Oh how I miss those puppy moments. The sweet, fluffy, snuggly moments. Not the chewed up everything moments and messing in the house and being super excited and wildly crazy when visitors come and...
Ok, I'm gonna stop there with the puppy moments. Just know that I love puppies.
Jordan is a workaholic for sure! He's just watched his sister Lexi disappear from the crazy business life and is trying to convince him to do the same thing. Life needs to be enjoyed as well as work and Jordan needs to find that balance. He's trying but he hasn't found anything to help him really want to until now. The only problem is that he's not sure that his feelings are reciprocated. What can, or what must, or what will he do, to prove that his heart is in the right place? Or will it all backfire in his face and prove to everyone around him that he doesn't know how to balance work and home life?
I loved reading about Jordan in the previous book of this series, Hawaiian Masquerade. He wasn't the staring role in it but there were enough bits and pieces of information about him that made me very happy that he was given his own book. Plus, we get to see more of Lexi (main character from Hawaiian Masquerade) in this book. These two siblings have some healing that they need to workout, and finding someone they love and who loves them in return helps them both in their healing. Time to let the past go and realize that life can be full of love and joy.
Great story and great series. Definitely two books I would recommend to anyone who enjoys sweet and clean romance with healing.
Content: Clean. Attempted attack on a character but nothing graphic.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Cute story that my whole family loves. We've read it and watched it several times on Storyline Online. Puts a fun twist to the concept of monsters undCute story that my whole family loves. We've read it and watched it several times on Storyline Online. Puts a fun twist to the concept of monsters under the bed. The illustrations are great as well!...more
Art, music, friends, a broken stained-glass window, two broken hearts and Christmas, mix with a heaping spoonful of humor and a giant cup of love, addArt, music, friends, a broken stained-glass window, two broken hearts and Christmas, mix with a heaping spoonful of humor and a giant cup of love, add a dash of heat from the fireplace, a cozy blanket and this is the perfect recipe for a cozy Christmas read.
I started reading this last night and could not put it down. I stayed up just a little bit past my bedtime to finish it *blushes*. I had to know what happened. I forced my eyes to stay open until I had enjoyed every moment. I loved the first book, Mending Fences and was so happy when the author kept getting such great feedback from readers asking for more about the group of roommates from that book that she decided to create a whole series about it. Yay for me because I wanted more too! Mandy was the first roommate to have a book and now Tessa gets to shine in this one. And boy does she shine! Not in a show off way, but in the way that her character's goodness shines through in all her actions. For those of you wondering if you need to read the books in order...You don't have to read the first book to enjoy this one but I think it would help because the roommates are introduced in the first book. But if you don't have the time to read both and want to dive into this one, the author does a great job of giving a little intro to the roommates as they appear in the story. So either way, read in order, or as stand alones.
So the author got to help with this big stained glass mural recently and used that to shape and create this story. I absolutely loved the art aspects in both books so far. I wanted to join in with them in creating the different mediums of art used. And I will readily admit that I want to go out and learn how to make stained glass windows right now. I was very intrigued reading the process of how Tessa was fixing the window and all the different steps, especially the info about the glass and finding the right pieces. Tessa is helping to fix a very old church's stained glass window of The Nativity. Reading the descriptions makes me want to go find a stained glass window that portrays The Nativity right now. I've seen it several times before but I want to see it again after reading about it. I love stained glass, it's just beautiful and amazing to look at. The church I go to built a new building years ago because the original one wasn't working anymore(really old and too small). So they pulled all the stained glass windows from it and used them in the new building. It's so beautiful and I love looking at the pieces every Sunday. In the Primary room there's a large circular one that has a beautiful flower at the center, absolutely gorgeous. Ok, sorry for the little tangent there. I just have stained glass on the brain I guess after reading this book. Tessa's love of all things art is kind of addicting and added a great depth to the story.
The author also integrates organs and music into this book as well and I loved it. So neat to learn a little bit more about the upkeep of the big church organs and pipes. Amazing! Not to mention, it's Christmas time, and the characters are playing The Messiah. I love that Oratorio. I'm actually in a community choir right now preparing to perform it and every week singing those words and the music is just amazing! Ok, again another little tangent there. I can't help it though, I love music and art. If a book has that within the story, I'm sucked in if it's written descriptively and well.
Tessa and Sean were such a fun couple to read about. Their pasts have hurt and heartache in them. So much so that they are trying to avoid any relationships. Imagine their surprise when they stumble into each other's lives and find peace and healing with each other. It was beautifully written. Not a forced love story but a trust and friendship grown and nurtured into love. There are some little snags along the way but these two characters were open and upfront about the snags and fixed it. Oh, and that ending...LOVED IT!!!!!! I loved having all these characters that I love together and seeing their happiness. (Lots of love in this review...figuratively and literally with how many times I've used the word).
I absolutely loved coming back to this series. It felt like coming home and all my dear friends were waiting for me. Pure warmth and happiness while reading this one. *Happy Sigh* I can't recommend either book enough...and I can't tell you how excited I am for the next one in the series. LOL! I'll be patient because this one just barely released and I'm sure the author is trying to live life and enjoy the holiday with family and friends. But I will be very happy to learn who the next roommate will be getting their own book in the series. Go grab yourself a copy and snuggle in for a cozy Christmas read!
Content: Clean
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Beautiful. I think that is a perfect word to describe this telling of the story of Ruth from the Bible. I've always loved Ruth and Naomi. In my mind tBeautiful. I think that is a perfect word to describe this telling of the story of Ruth from the Bible. I've always loved Ruth and Naomi. In my mind they have always been two people who knew what love and sacrifice was. They knew extreme loss and aching, hardships and trials. And yet they had such beautiful Faith, trust, hope and love in the Lord that they didn't give up when it could have been so easy to. Ruth's own Faith, turning from her family's beliefs and worships to embrace the God of her husband's family, while still living in the land of her forefathers could not have been easy.
This historical fictional story about Ruth and Naomi's loss and journey back to Naomi's people was very well written. Of course from the amount of verses in the Bible about their lives, we don't get all the little details so a lot of this story is that, a story and speculation. But I think that the way H.B. Moore shaped it and the details and emotions added in was truly beautifully done.
The book starts with Ruth and her husband and shows a glimpse into her life with him and his family. She's happy about her life, even with some of the ups and downs, and she loves her husband. Then the author jumps from Ruth's life to Boaz's in the next chapter. Throughout the book the chapters switched between Ruth and Boaz's point of view. I loved having their lives shown parallel and what was happening for each of them at the same time even though they were living in different locations and didn't know each other. Then when their lives crossed and they met watching their story unfold from both of their eyes. The sorrows brought to both of their lives affected them and shaped them. Yet, even before, during and after those trials, I loved their characters. The author portrayed these two as I have often thought their personalities and attitudes to have been from what we read in the Bible.
The storyline follows the storyline of Ruth in the Bible and (if you haven't read or know about Ruth, I'm writing my review as if you have, so there might be spoilers ahead) shortly after the book opens the loss of her husband and brother-in-law occurs. I loved seeing the relationship between Ruth, her mother-in-law Naomi and her sister-in-law Orpah. They loved each other, they worked side by side, they comforted each other. Then to have the emotions of losing the men in their lives and then Orpah going back to her family causing another feeling of loss. It was heartbreaking. Throughout the book we watched Ruth trying to heal and move on because she didn't really have any other option, but I liked how the author showed those moments of Ruth remembering her husband and the love she has for him.
Ruth promises Naomi she will go with her and stay with her. The way Ruth is portrayed and written shows her deep love and respect for Naomi as well as her conversion to Naomi's God and beliefs. Naomi's fears and sorrow and uncertainty for the future was shown and talked about that if Ruth hadn't come with her, she might not have survived. I loved the thoughts and possibilities of thoughts and emotions written into these characters' story.
I want to keep describing more and more of this story for you because of its beauty. But I feel as if I don't have words to describe it other than continuing to describe its beauty and how much it touched me while reading it. I loved it. I want to go back and reread it right now. I want to share it with everyone who loves the story of Ruth and Naomi. I know some people might not feel the same way about it that I do, and that's ok. I have so many images from the different scenes running through my head and causing me to smile. Not the permagrin, goofy, type of smile. But the smile when you see or feel something truly touching and beautiful. I love this author's ability to bring to life these historical figures and even though it's a lot of speculation of what might have happened, the thoughts and feelings that I have after reading the story, and a little better understanding of what might have been is thanks to her amazing talent. If you haven't read any of this author's Biblical retellings, I highly recommend them.
I skipped any talk about Boaz and Ruth earlier. I don't want to say too much but a thought. From the Bible we know that he was aware of her as a widow, a kin member, and that she was gleaning in his fields. But I loved in this story the perspective that they would have had some interactions together, to get to know each other a little. They were after all kin and Ruth and Naomi didn't have the protection of any male relative when they first arrived back in Naomi's land. The friendship developed and the sweet love story that the author portrays between these two was absolutely beautiful. I know I keep using the word beautiful but it's truly how I feel. Stunning might be another good descriptive word for this book and my feelings about it. Beautiful and lovely and stunning!
Content: Clean. Some moments of peril, death, a birth but nothing graphic.
I received a review copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Have you read any of the Daughters of His Kingdom books yet? I hadn't until I read this one. I have all the novels sitting waiting for me as I keep saHave you read any of the Daughters of His Kingdom books yet? I hadn't until I read this one. I have all the novels sitting waiting for me as I keep saying I'm going to read them. They were kindle freebies several months ago and I was super excited because I've been eyeing them for quite a while and friends had been reading and loving them. So of course I snagged them and haven't had time to read them yet. Life has been insanely busy this year and I just kept hoping at some point these would be at the top of my list. Well, when I saw this novella pop up and heard it was a Christmas time one, and it was only $0.99...I bought it. I told myself if I bought it I was going to read it right away because I've been wanting to read these books and I just needed to stop everything and do it. I can tear through a novella fast, so I did! Luckily I had a little time that I could read it here and there. Believe me when I say that I didn't want to read it here and there throughout my day. I wanted to sit down, cancel everything and read it all right then!
Margaret has loved Marcus her whole life. She feels beneath him in station but can't help the attraction and draw she feels towards him. Marcus knows she exists but is a little older than her and with so many other concerns in his life, plus the fact that he usually gravitates towards women of his own station he hasn't really noticed her. Until now, when he can't help but notice her. Their meeting after him being away for years was pretty fun and cute. Can I just say that I love stories about childhood crushes and friends who grow up and fall in love. Now Marcus and Margaret's reconnection in this story was not at all what they had planned for their lives but when marriage (and a fast unplanned marriage) is needed to protect your home or your life, what other choice do you have but someone who also needs the protection of marriage. I loved Adam, Margaret's cousin and all of his matchmaking. He was great!
If you love historical fiction and sweet characters, sweet romance and a little angst thrown in, then I highly recommend this one. The walks, the horses, the peril, the meddling relatives, the love, the happily ever after moments and most especially the hero and heroine make this a read that I want to come back to again and again.
Content: Clean. Some talk (thoughts) about the marriage bed (time period of the book wording) but nothing graphic, very well written.
So much fun! I love My Fair Lady and to have a fun twist with a handsome Chris Hemsworth look alike Australian playing the role of Eliza Doolittle wasSo much fun! I love My Fair Lady and to have a fun twist with a handsome Chris Hemsworth look alike Australian playing the role of Eliza Doolittle was absolutely clever. Very fun twist for sure! I loved the beginning of each chapter and how the author tweaked the different songs from the musical to fit the book chapters. So, so clever!
The first chapter I wasn't quite sure what to think about this Aussie and his predicament or what was going to happen but it was definitely a great way to create some angst and put him in a big predicament that needed saving by a fair maiden who also needed saving by a fair Aussie.
Definitely did not like Mo-No at all!!!!! AT ALL!!!!!!! Ok, I think my feelings for her are very clear now. *shrugs shoulders*
Oh I just loved all the surprise that the two MCs kept bringing to the equation with each other. Kept the fun and swoon factor going strong. That ending too? Happy, Happy, Happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To my fellow club members of "Voices in My Head", this is one that will have you hearing a deep and swoony voice the whole way through. Especially when he says "Elizar" (yes Eliza with an 'r' at the end). Any others who want to join the club, welcome! Those in the club already...you know who you are.
If you are looking for a fun and distracting from craziness in life novel, look no further, here it is! Plus you get to read about mistaken identities, swoony accents and true love saving the day! What's better than that?
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