Accounting for the Pastor Book Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

The world is full of second chances...

She’s a divorced bookkeeper with secrets. He’s her new pastor. In 1951, pastors, divorcees, and small towns don’t mix.

After escaping an abusive marriage, Rose Olliver is starting over in the quiet town of Payson, Ohio, with her four-year-old daughter Liza. Between keeping her books in order and her past behind her, Rose has plenty on her mind, and she has no intention of getting involved—especially not with the handsome pastor who wants to break down her walls.

During the war, Caleb Bronson discovered his calling—bringing others to God. But not everyone in his new congregation likes the idea of a single pastor. He’s quickly overwhelmed by parishioners’ demands like field trips with octogenarians and a teens’ boxing club. He is deeply attracted to Rose and hires her to manage his calendar and help him say no.

When a letter arrives that ties Rose to a buried war crime and a man powerful enough to ruin her, Rose wrestles with a terrible choice: protect the life she’s carefully built or speak up.

Can Caleb help her carry the weight of the past? Or will her honesty cost her everything?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laura Rupper spent her first six years of life in Metlakatla, Alaska. There was no T.V. reception on the island, so a great love of books was born. Laura loves creative activities ranging from painting to designing fourth grade math lessons. Boring chores, like laundry, make her daydream of magical worlds and happy endings.

Laura has three beautiful daughters and one giant dog who was supposed to be 50 pounds but is almost twice that size. Laura is under five feet tall and hopes having lots of energy makes up for her lack of height. She has a degree in Human Biology and works as a school counselor because life can be hard and sometimes students need a helping hand.

REVIEW

In Accounting for the Pastor, Rose Olliver escaped from an abusive marriage and is starting over in a small town with her daughter. When Rose receives a letter asking her to step forward and speak-up about a buried war crime, she struggles with her conscience and the desire to protect her new life. As the past is haunting her, she gets to know the new pastor in town, Caleb Bronson. The new pastor has his own battles and as Rose helps him, she realizes that the past could cost her more than she realizes.

Accounting for the Pastor is such a fun read. The author does a good job of mixing drama, comedy, and romance. I loved the mix of light-hearted to heavy-hearted. The characters and side characters were interesting and dynamic. The author does a good job at painting the era. There were things that she mentioned reminded me of stories I've heard from relatives, old letters and other books from the time period. I felt like she did a good job of not modernizing the time period and capturing what post-WWII may have looked like. Overall, it was an enjoyable read. The romance was clean and sweet. To learn more about the book, click here.

Please note that I received a free copy to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate link that help support this blog.

It Started in Budapest Review and Giveaway

 

Molly Cooper is haunted by one simple fact: it is her fault her twin brother, Matthew, has spent his life trapped in a frail body while she has thrived. Deep in her heart, she knows he can’t hold on much longer.

In her desperation to save her brother, Molly finds inspiration in an unlikely source: the newly published novel Dracula. When her family embarks on the Orient Express to seek treatment for Matthew in Bulgaria, Molly is prepared to set her plan in motion: she will sneak away from her parents and journey alone to Transylvania, where she will seek a vampire, whose blood can make her brother immortal. Molly’s rash plan is going flawlessly—until she encounters Percy Hunt, a handsome American traveler running from the shadows of his own past. When he discovers Molly’s plan, Percy’s concern for the naive young woman leaves him no choice but to accompany her on her strange quest. But neither Percy nor Molly is prepared for the feelings that quickly grow between them or for the death-defying escapade that awaits.

Review - This is not your typical romance. The main character, Molly, is unusual with several quirks and a shocking naivety about the difference between fantasy and reality. The story pace is quick and often relates to Dracula by Bram Stoker. This story would be good to read along with the classic Dracula. I felt like I was reading this story at the wrong time of year. It should be read around Halloween and not the summer. There seems to be other allusions to other monsters i.e Mummy, but I am not familiar enough with the Horror genre to know for sure. This felt very different from Daines's other books...more excitement, horror, naivety, and unusual characters. It's a clean, wholesome read. I would recommend it to Romance/Horror fans. To learn more, click here.

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Please note that I received a free e-book to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate links. Please note that the giveaway is run by the publisher.

In Front of Me Review and Giveaway

When all your plans fail, can you find the courage to follow a new path? Lissa Montgomery is on track

to be Boston’s top financial analyst—or she would have been, if her misogynistic boss had ever given her a chance. Suddenly jobless, Lissa has little hope for her life going according to plan. But then she meets handsome and charming Brennon, a workaholic who is just as driven as she is. In order to spend more time with him when he’s not at the office, she agrees to look after his blind roommate, Steve, after he’s hit by a car.

Where Brennon is sweet and thoughtful and practically perfect, Steve is grumpy, abrasive, and refuses to find a reason to be happy in his newly sightless life. Getting to know Brennon, though, means being stuck with his best friend too, even if he is a little rough around the edges.

But as Steve starts to open up and finally live again, Lissa realizes there’s a lot more to life than climbing the corporate ladder. And she has to wonder who is really blind, since Steve seems to be the only one who can see what is right in front of him.

In Front of Me is a sweet contemporary romance that functions as a standalone, with recurring characters from the rest of the Simple Love Story series.

About the Author

Dana LeCheminant has been telling stories since she was old enough to know what stories were. After spending most of her childhood reading everything she could get her hands on, she eventually realized she could write her own books, and since then she always has plots brewing and characters clamoring to be next to have their stories told. A lover of all things outdoors, she finds inspiration while hiking the remote Utah backcountry and cruising down rivers. Until her endless imagination runs dry, she will always have another story to tell.

Review

In Front of Me is a fast-paced, fun, contemporary romance. The characters have unique, memorable personalities that come alive on the pages. The story was clean and wholesome. It was different, unique, engaging. and filled with a few unexpected twists and humorous moments. The story held my attention and the author a good job at pacing the story right.  It can be read as a stand alone, but there are times when a deeper connection between the characters are mentioned that a reader would have understood better if they had read the whole series. The characters have a fun chemistry together and overall it's a good, romantic read. It would recommend it as a summer escape read. To learn more click here.

Giveaway

The author authorized me to giveaway a print version of the book! Enter by using the Rafflecopter below.a Rafflecopter giveaway “Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  

Many thanks to Dana Lecheminant for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. Winner for US only. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

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A Change of Fortune, Blog Tour, Author Interview and Giveaway

Law student Brooke Sherman leads an enviable life, with an impressive education, a prestigious internship, and an ambitious boyfriend who any girl on campus would love to date. But one phone call shatters everything: her father, the optimistic man who insists on buying lottery tickets and dreaming big, has terminal cancer. Desperate to get home and predictably unable to rely on her boyfriend, Brooke finds an unlikely hero in the form of her classmate.

Jason Ramsey has had a crush on his study partner Brooke for months, but he’d never encroach on someone else’s girlfriend—even if the guy doesn’t treat her the way she deserves. But when he learns of Brooke’s father’s diagnosis, Jason steps up to help however he can. In the weeks and months following, Jason is Brooke’s rock, and after Brooke’s breakup, Jason becomes much more than just a friend. But even as they plan for a future together, things get complicated: Brooke’s father had a dying wish, that his daughter buy one last lottery ticket. She never dreamed that fulfilling that wish would jeopardize a future with the man she loves.

Author Interview

 

Life Is What It's Called - Why did you decide to write a new contemporary romance novel vs. another action/spy thriller?

Traci Hunter Abramson - When I first started writing, contemporary romance was what I read the most. This particular story has been floating around in my head for literally decades, and it finally took shape a couple years ago.

 

The first contemporary romance I wrote, Chances Are, was a complete accident. Every time I tried to write a suspense scene, my sense of humor got in the way, and it turned into a romance. At that time I discovered a secret. When I need a fun break from suspense, or when I need to get a book out quickly without dealing with the CIA’s review process, writing a romance is a refreshing change.

 

Life Is What It's Called - How does the writing process of contemporary romance vs. action/spy thriller differ?

 

Traci Hunter Abramson - The biggest differences are the pacing and the complexity of the plot. The pacing for a romance develops so much slower that I often have to rewrite my romances to get the timing down right. I also love that in a romance, I don’t have to juggle so many complex subplots as I do in my thrillers. Instead, I’m able to enjoy the characters without worrying someone may try to kill them.

 

Life Is What It's Called - What have you pulled into this story from your own life?

 

Traci Hunter Abramson - The idea for a A Change of Fortune stems from spending my teenage years living with my dad after my parents split up. My father started buying a lottery ticket every week, and he would talk about all the things he would do when he won. Eight years ago, he passed away after a short battle with cancer, so I drew from my emotions from that experience, as well as from my dad’s earlier dreams, to create the main character’s father. Their small farm is also reminiscent of the little farm I lived on when I was a teenager, only I lived in small town Arizona rather than Delaware.

 

Paul, the godfather in the story, is based on my real godfather, who is also named Paul. A lot of my Uncle Sam’s wisdom and life lessons have also seeped into this book, right down to the Mickey Mouse watch my uncle wore to remind him not to let life get too serious.

 

Life Is What It's Called -  Are there more contemporary romances in your future?

 

Traci Hunter Abramson - Absolutely. I have one which has already been accepted for publication next year, as well as a novella that will come out in the spring of 2021. I expect going forward, I will write two suspense/thrillers each year and one contemporary romance.

 

Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope fans will gain from this story?

 

Traci Hunter Abramson - I hope people will enjoy riding along with me as they explore some of the life lessons and values that the important people in my life have shared with me over the years. Helping others, working hard to make your dreams come true, and always being true to yourself top the list.

 

Life Is What It's Called - How long does it take for you to write a book?

 

Traci Hunter Abramson - That’s a loaded question. It can take me anywhere from a month to six months to write a book depending on how many projects I’m working on at the same time. My average is around two to three months.

 

Life Is What It's Called - What was your favorite scene from this book to write?

 

Traci Hunter Abramson - I think my favorite scene to write was actually the one when Jason comes home to his apartment and finds his roommate packing. It was a simple glimpse of college/graduate school life, and it was the scene where I discovered who Jason was and what he wanted in life.

 

When I first started writing, contemporary romance was what I read the most. This particular story has been floating around in my head for literally decades, and it finally took shape a couple years ago.

 

The first contemporary romance I wrote, Chances Are, was a complete accident. Every time I tried to write a suspense scene, my sense of humor got in the way, and it turned into a romance. At that time I discovered a secret. When I need a fun break from suspense, or when I need to get a book out quickly without dealing with the CIA’s review process, writing a romance is a refreshing change.

 

Review

A Change of Fortune was a fun summer read. I enjoyed the characters' blossoming romance. It was interesting to see how the different characters reacted to the idea of fortunes, greed, and money. The theme seemed to run rampant in the book and you could see it from many different viewpoints. The lottery topic was well researched. It was interesting to see how Brooke reacted to her change in fortune and how she had to take most of it on by herself. The romance was light and interesting. The only part that felt like a reach for me was how easy and fast it was for the characters to get a job with a law firm. The law firm didn't ask for a record of their grades or resumes. It seemed unrealistic to me. Otherwise, the book was an enjoyable read that I would recommend to contemporary romance fans. It's a clean, wholesome read. Learn more about A Change of Fortune by clicking here.

Enter to win a copy below and/or check out Covenant Communication's Instagram for a chance to win a copy of the book and other fun prizes by clicking here.

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Please note that I received an book for free, however, this is my honest opinion. Please also note that there are affiliate links in this post. The giveaway is run by the publisher.

Where the Stars Meet the Sea Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

Juliet Graham fervently counts the days until her twenty-first birthday, when she can claim the inheritance that will grant her the freedom she has always craved and the guardianship of her younger brother. Until then, she is trapped under her aunt Agnes's domineering will. When forced to accompany the family to a house party at Shaldorn Castle, Juliet's only objective is to keep to herself. That is, until a chance encounter with a boorish stranger stirs up an unexpected whirlwind of emotions in her. Thrown off-balance, Juliet does the unthinkable: loses her temper and insults the man who turns out to be her unwilling host, the Duke of Halstead. Fully expecting to be sent away, Juliet is surprised when the brusque and callous duke instead takes an interest in her.
Drawn to the duke in unguarded moments, Juliet finds herself more and more intrigued by the man who shuns Society's rules as completely as she does, and over the next few weeks, their unlikely friendship deepens into a connection neither expected.

But even as Juliet comes to recognize her true feelings, her scheming aunt issues an ultimatum that threatens the future she was just beginning to hope for. Juliet must choose: either break the promise she made to herself years ago, or lose the man who has captured her heart and soul.

Review - Where the Stars Meet the Sea instantly became a new favorite after reading it. If you like Regency romance, you need to read this book. The protagonists were not only likeable but they had a great built up of romantic tension. The dramatic tension was amazing and there wasn't any dull lulls in this story. It was very well crafted. The antagonists were complex and dynamic. It was quite the page-turner for me. The descriptions were really well done as well as how she introduced the characters. I could easily visualize the settings, the characters and the scenes. This book is a five star "guilty pleasure" book. I would definitely recommend reading this book. Click here to learn more about Where the Stars Meet the Sea.

Enter the giveaway for a chance to win a copy of the book!

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Please note that I received this book for free, however, this is my honest opinion. Please also note that there are affiliate links in this post. The giveaway is run by the publisher.

 

Books to Request at Your Local Library

I love reading and my children do too. We are constantly putting new books on hold at our local library. Besides secular books, I also like to check out books by members of my religion, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Sometimes it's hard to discover new books. I have done searches by publisher, but sometimes the local library doesn't have anything recent. I've recently started requesting that my library purchase books that we're interested in reading. Most libraries have an online request form that patrons can use. You can also request books via interlibary loan. I like checking books out at the library before buying to see if it's something my family will love. Here are some books published by Cedar Fort Publishing, many of the authors are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, that you might be interested in reading:

Children's Books

• Lehi, Lehi, What Do You See? by Sandra Meaders, Published 2018, ISBN-1462122426, $12.99 
• 250 Fascinating Facts about LDS Temples by Rebekah Pitts, Published 2018, ISBN-462122973, $13.99 
• 250 Fascinating Facts about Latter-day Saints by Rebekah Pitts, Published 2019, ISBN-1462123147, $13.99
• The Atonement of Jesus Christ is For Me by Sierra Wilson, Published 2018, ISBN-1462121942, $14.99

Adult Fiction

• The Road to Freedom by Shawn Pollock, Published 2017, ISBN: 1462121314, $12.03 
• Secret of Haversham House by Julie Matern 
• Simply Starstruck by Aspen Hadley Blind Dates
• Bridesmaids & Other Disasters by Aspen Hadley  
• The Time Key by Melanie Bateman 
• Willow Springs by Carolyn Stoor Steele
• Soda Springs by Carolyn Stoor Steele

Adult Non-Fiction

• Fire on Ice: Gospel Lessons Learned from a Lifetime of Sports by Jeremy C. Holm, Published 2014, ISBN: 1462113672, $12.95 
• Early Homecoming: A Resource for Early-Returned Missionaries, their Church Leaders, and Family by Kristen Reber 
• Senior Missions: What to Expect and How to Prepare by Marnae B. Wilson
• Hope After Suicide by Wendy Parmley
• Trial of Faith by Dusty Smith 

 To learn more about what books Cedar Fort has to offer, click here.

Fatal Memories Blog Tour, Author Interview, Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Series: Love Inspires Suspense Genre: Christian, Inspirational, Romance, Suspense Publisher: Harlequin Publication date: September 1, 2019 She was framed! Or was she? If only she could remember... Border patrol agent Jocelyn Walker has no memory of how she turned up unconscious with a cache of drugs—or why a gang is dead set on killing her. With evidence stacking up against her, Joss takes refuge with driven DEA agent Dylan Murphy, who guards—and suspects— her. But will finally trusting each other lead them into a trap they’ll never escape?

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About the Author

Tanya Stowe is an author of Christian Fiction with an unexpected edge. She fills her stories with the unusual…mysteries and exotic adventures, even a murder or two. No matter where Tanya takes you…on a trip to foreign lands or a suspenseful journey filled with danger…be prepared for the extraordinary.

FACEBOOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE

Author Interview

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this book? 

Tanya Stowe - My husband and I are full time RV’ers. During the winter months we live in southern Arizona near where the book takes place. I’ve fallen in love with this land, it’s unique characteristics and its history. I just had to create a suspense novel set there. 

Life Is What It's Called - What music would you pick as a playlist for this book? 

Tanya Stowe - I have a playlist of nouveau flamenco that I play while writing this story. Ottma Liebert created haunting atmospheric music that can be romantic and mysterious so it helps me get in the mood. 

Life Is What It's Called - What actors would you pick to play the part of your characters in a movie? 

Tanya Stowe - That’s a tough one. The heroine is easy. Anne Hathaway. But the hero is tougher. I think maybe a young Mathew McConnaughey. That fits.

Review

Fatal Memories begins with the heroine, Jocelyn, losing her memory. Dylan Murphy's, a DEA agent, job is to determine her innocence while trying to find dangerous drug traffickers. The story is interesting and fun as the characters try to help Jocelyn unlock her memories and unravel clues. I didn't always agree with some of Murphy's decisions, but otherwise the story was an interesting suspenseful read. It's a quick easy read that would be fun to take on a road trip or camping trip.

Giveaway

Enter the giveaway HERE.

Giveaway ends September 7 at 11:59pm MT. Giveaway is subject to policies HERE.

Tour Schedule

Check out the tour schedule HERE.

A Clever Alliance Book Review

Lady Madalene Ramsbury has been summoned home from Miss Bell’s Finishing School to some unfortunate news. In three weeks, she is to be married to a man she’s never met. Rather than face a life she does not want; she flees from her own engagement party and elicits help from a most unlikely source.

Society’s golden boy, Everett, the Marquess of Northampton, was outraged when a young woman suddenly appeared in his curricle. Was she attempting to trap him into an unwanted marriage? It would be just like some overzealous mother to put her up to such a ploy. However, it doesn’t take long for him to discover that Madalene is unlike any woman he has ever known.

With her reputation in shambles, Lady Madalene and Everett hatch a plan to solve both of their problems, a fake engagement. But as they spend time together, they realize more is on the line than just a blossoming friendship. And with danger ever present from her jilted suitor, Everett and Madalene find themselves relying on one another in ways they’d never imagined… but can they trust each other with their hearts?

Review

A Clever Alliance was a fun and amusing romance. I enjoyed reading and discovering about the main character, Lady Madalene. She had a fresh energy that was refreshing and fun. I loved Beers's description of her and her character traits. She makes quite an entrance into Everett's life. It was a great meet-cute. I think Madalene is one of my favorite characters written by Beers. She loves climbing trees, smart and resourceful. Everett and Madalene have a great chemistry that was enjoyable to read. The story moves quickly and is easy to read. This is a must read for regency romance readers. To learn more about A Clever Alliance, click here.


Please note that I received a free e-book to review, however my opinion is my own. This post also contains affiliate links.

Cover Reveal for the 7th Book in the Beckett Series by Laura Beers

The Unfortunate Debutante is the seventh book of The Beckett Files series by Laura Beers. I've enjoyed reading this series. It's exciting, romantic, adventurous, full of intrigue and mystery. Beers  empowers her women characters to break the norm and to find their own strength.

 The Unfortunate Debutante releases October 1st. Put it in your calendar and be prepared to order the seventh book in The Beckett Files series. What do you think of the cover?

 

This book is not yet available for pre-order. Learn more about the books in the Beckett Files series by clicking here. 

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A Lady's Maid Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

Molly O' Malley, lady's maid to the progressive Lady Amanda Halloway, is determined to continue the life's work of her lost love, killed in the Peterloo Massacre. But when her efforts and a trip to Lady Halloway's charitable orphanage culminate in her own abduction, Molly's eyes are opened to the horrifying crimes transpiring in the city's slums. Despite the risks, she broadens her mission and is drawn ever closer to the peril all around them.

Thomas Flaherty, a footman in the Halloway household, has been with Molly from the beginning, but he fears she will never trust him with her heart. Even though her cause and happiness are of foremost importance to him, his loyal patience is tested by the fears that keep her at a distance. But with their safety on the line, Thomas is resolved to sacrifice everything for the woman he loves.

Risking their lives and their love, Molly and Thomas and a team of nobles on their side will stop at nothing to empower the powerless, no matter the personal cost.

Review - A Lady's Maid takes the reader into the households of the privileged and the unfortunate. The slums described in A Lady's Maid reminded me of Dicken's Oliver Twist. The feelings that I felt during Oliver's plight were similar to reading about Molly's escapade in the slums. The imagery and descriptions were very powerfully written. Johnson has a way of making the story come alive in the reader's imagination even if it's not pleasant. Johnson doesn't write light or fluffy romances. She tackles the politics and troubles of the time period. I would also suggest reading her notes after the story. Some of her notes about the history were fascinating. A Lady's Maid is a stand-alone novel, but has some of the same characters as Johnson's The Nobleman's Daughter. I've read The Nobleman's Daughter and Scarlet, and I think by far this is my favorite. The detail is rich and imaginative. The main characters are inspiring and likeable. Even though this is a stand-alone novel, I think the reader should probably read The Nobleman's Daughter first. There are scenes and background information that carry over into this book. The title of the book makes it seem like this is just Molly's story, but there are also other characters that take center stage at times and it's also their story as well. There is some scenes dealing with prostitutes and rude comments made to the women that were appropriate for the scene and doesn't go beyond that. This is a clean novel. To learn more, click here.

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Please note that I received a free copy to facilitate this review, however, my opinions are my own. The giveaway is facilitated by the publisher. There are affiliate links in this post that help to facilitate the maintenance of this blog. 

Love and Other Mistakes Book Tour and Review

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Love and Other Mistakes

By Jessica Kate

Christian Contemporary Romance

Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 352 Pages

July 30th 2019 by Thomas Nelson

Jessica Kate’s hilarious, romantic debut novel proves that some mistakes—including love—are begging to be made again and again.

Natalie Groves once had big dreams. But soon after her fiancé, Jeremy Walters, inexplicably broke off their engagement and left town, her father was diagnosed with cancer. Now tasked with keeping her family afloat, Natalie’s grand plans have evaporated . . . and God feels very far away.

Fast-forward seven years, and Jeremy is back in Charlottesville with an infant son and years of regrets. When his niece, Lili, lands on his doorstep in need of a place to stay, Jeremy needs help—and fast.

An internship opening finally presents Natalie a chance at her dream job, but she needs a second income to work around it—and the only offer available is Jeremy’s. They could be the solutions to one another’s problems, provided they don’t kill each other in the process. When they join forces, sparks fly. But they both know there’s a thin line between love and hate . . . and that love will turn out to be the best decision—or the biggest mistake—of all.

Praise for the Book

“A stunning debut . . . This tale of love and redemption will stay with you long after you've closed the book. A must-read.” —Rachel Hauck, New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress

“Witty. Charming. Heartfelt. I could go on and on about Jessica Kate’s debut novel. From its highly relatable characters to its pitch-perfect dialogue, Love and Other Mistakes is a delightful, romantic read filled with just the right amount of sass. I lost count of the number of times I laughed out loud as I watched Natalie and Jem navigate their relationships, careers, and faith. Definitely one of the most enjoyable books I've read lately, and I can't wait to see what’s next from Jessica Kate!” —Melissa Tagg, Carol Award–winning author of Now and Then and Always and the Walker Family series

“Love and Other Mistakes wraps a poignant and warm look at relationships within a smart, sly, and knowing comedic voice. Readers of Sally Thorne and Bethany Turner will be immediately at home with Natalie: an all-too-real heroine who balances whip-smart agency with an endearing vulnerability and whose intersection with long-lost Jeremy helps her forge a path to confidence and discover the woman she was always meant to be. Kate’s unputdownable debut recognizes that all human relationships—familial, friendship, romantic—are worth the keen eye and clever insight of her talented pen.” —Rachel McMillan, author of the Van Buren and DeLuca Mysteries

“If you’re looking for a story with sass on top of style, or a fresh voice pumped full of fun, you need to read Love and Other Mistakes. Then after you’ve enjoyed this—and I’m confident you will—make a date with whatever this exciting new author writes next!” —David Rawlings, author of The Baggage Handler

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About the Author

Australian author Jessica Kate is obsessed with sassy romances. 

She packs her novels with love, hate, and everything in between—and then nerds out over her favorite books, movies and TV in the StoryNerds podcast. When she’s not writing or discussing fiction, she’s hunting the world for the greatest pasta in existence.

Her debut novel Love and Other Mistakes releases July 2019, while A Girl’s Guide to the Outback hits shelves in January 2020.

Receive her sassy short The Kiss Dare FREE when you sign up for her newsletter at jessicakatewriting.com. StoryNerds podcast is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and at www.storynerds.podbean.com.

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Review

Love and Other Mistakes shares the stories of several characters that weave together. The characters' lives are filled with drama and dealing with hurt and pain from others' mistakes. With the pain, several of the characters learn the power of forgiveness. It was an interesting read. I wouldn't call it "hilarious" or a "light-hearted" read. It was dramatic narrative interwoven with romance, forgiveness and sense of family. It was interesting to read about the challenges in Natalie, Jem and Lilli's lives and how they overcome their hardships and past. I would recommend reading it.

Author Question and Answer

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired your characters?

Jessica Kate - I’ve written above about what inspired the emotional journeys of Natalie and Lili, so I’ll share some of my fictional inspiration for the plot. Movies like Sweet Home Alabama and The Proposal are huge influences on my writing. I adore the love/hate dynamic, and in Sweet Home Alabama I love how it has a complicated family situation and real texture in the setting. The Proposal was also a fabulous example of a really fun trope, the fake relationship.Admission is an underrated romcom that also has love, hate, comedy and complicated families.

Tour Schedule

Secrets Never Die Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

Tallie Brown’s life has never made sense. Raised in isolation by her mother, Julia, Tallie was dragged suddenly and without explanation from one third-world outpost to another until life normalized seven years ago when Julia took a position on a mountaintop in the Pacific northwest. But when Julia unexpectedly dies, Tallie uncovers clues suggesting that Julia had a secret life.

Journalistic phenom Jackson James is still recovering from the devastating mistake that flatlined his promising career. Now he’s paying the price, working as the editor of a syrupy community rag in a posh D.C. suburb. But when the very man who destroyed him drops a tantalizing lead about a potential D.C. scandal, the reporter sees his chance for redemption and sets off to chase the story. Jackson’s investigation leads him to Cutler’s Ridge, a dying Virginia coal town, and directly into the path of the mysterious and beautiful Tallie.

As these two mistrustful loners follow their leads, their stories begin to intertwine until they reach an alarming conclusion – something terrible happened in Cutler’s Ridge. As they doggedly pursue the story, the town’s cold reception spirals into threats and danger, proving that there are those who will stop at nothing to keep the past hidden forever–because secrets never die.

Secrets Never Die was a very suspenseful read. There were times where I couldn't put the book down. I was fascinated by the suspense and wanted to know what was going on. There are many twists and turns, surprises, and it's very action packed. I liked the character Tallie. She seemed innocent and yet poised to protect herself and others. Jackson James was an interesting character and seemed motivated to protect Tallie and discover the truth whatever it maybe. The side characters were also likeable and suspicious. I did feel like there were too many secrets. To learn more about Secrets Never Die, click here.

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Please note that I received a free copy to facilitate this review, however, my opinions are my own. The giveaway is facilitated by the publisher. There are affiliate links in this post that help to facilitate the maintenance of this blog.   

By Hook or by Rook Cover Reveal and Giveaway

About the Book

Series: The London League
Genre:  Adult, Historical, Regency, Romance
Publisher: Phase Publishing
Publication date: July 1, 2019
​The most dangerous journeys…
Jeremy Pratt is a spy for the Crown, and one of the best. He has been in more dangerous situations than he can admit, and has always come out unscathed. But escorting his colleague’s cousin home to her family, even in disguise, just might be beyond his skills, and the temptation beyond his ability to withstand.
…May be ones of the heart…
Helen Dalton is convinced there is more to this man escorting her than meets the eye, and something familiar about him, as well. There is only one man in the world who looks at her so intensely, banters with her so easily, and makes her blush so furiously. And when he manages a daring and heroic rescue, she wonders if she ever knew him at all.

About the Author

Rebecca Connolly writes romances, both period and contemporary, because she absolutely loves a good love story. She has been creating stories since childhood, and there are home videos to prove it! She started writing them down in elementary school and has never looked back. She currently lives in the Midwest, spends every spare moment away from her day job absorbed in her writing, and is a hot cocoa addict.

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Cover Reveal

Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of By Hook or by Rook (US mailing addresses only).

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Giveaway ends June 24 at 11:59pm MT.
​
Giveaway is subject to policies HERE.

Blog Stops

Follow along at SLB Tours for a full list of stops!

Love in Disguise Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

Marion Watt is set to embark on her first London Season, and her parents have spared no expense to help her secure a suitable husband. Unlike most of the social-climbing women in her position, Marion has no desire to marry hastily or for anything less than love. But when she learns of her mother's declining health, she knows she must keep an open mind and allow herself to be courted. What she does not anticipate, however, is that the attentions of the insufferable Lord William Everton will be placed squarely on her. He might be the most sought-after bachelor of the Season, but she sees in him nothing but a frivolous cad.

Until William inherits his father's title and seat in parliament, he must rely on his own devices to change the world. Dressing like a ridiculous dandy serves its purposes, but he is certain his newest disguise will help him find a wife to please his parents and further his own agenda. From among the glittering group of debutantes, William finds only one woman who passes his test. Unfortunately, the perfect choice is the only woman in all of London who despises him.

 Love in Disguise was a fun, clever read. It was hard to put down. The characters were interesting and there were several unexpected twists and turns in the story. I felt like Marion and William were a little slow at times in understanding each other and I wish that it was drawn out so much, but otherwise the story moved rather quickly. I would have liked more explanations on some of the minor characters. It would be interesting to learn their backgrounds and how William came to know them. It would be interesting to read a prequel to this story. I think most readers that like regency novels would enjoy this story. It's a clean romance. To learn more about Love in Disguise, click here.

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Please note that I received a free copy to facilitate this review, however, my opinions are my own. The giveaway is facilitated by the publisher. There are affiliate links in this post that help to facilitate the maintenance of this blog. 

The Heart of A Vicar Blog Tour, Review and Giveaway

Young love is all too fleeting, as Harold Jonquil painfully discovered years ago when Sarah Sarvol, the niece of a neighboring landowner, captured his heart. After an idyllic few weeks in the throes of blossoming love, reality intervened. They could have no future. Following their disastrous parting, Harold attempted to push aside thoughts of love and regret, but Sarah has never left his heart. Now, years later, he has achieved his lifelong aspiration of becoming the local vicar. However, the role proves more difficult than he imagined. He feels hollow and uninspired -- until the most important person in his past returns, challenging him as no one ever has.

When Sarah's ailing uncle summons her back to the family estate in England, there iso only one person from her past she is reluctant to see again: Harold Jonquil, the only man who has ever claimed her heart. But when she comes face-to-face with her former beau, she hardly recognizes the aloof and dull man before her. She is determined to help Harold rediscover the passion he once felt toward his chosen profession. Soon, despite their exasperation with each other, they cannot deny the stirring of feelings long buried-- but is it too late for second chances?

Sarah Eden created a fictional family called the Jonquils with seven sons and an honorary son. Each son has/or will have a novel telling the story of how they met their spouse. Each story also references what is going on in the lives of the other brothers and build on each other. She also created a second family for regency romance readers called the Lancasters. The last Lancaster book, Loving Lieutenant Lancaster, sets place at the Jonquil home and some of the plot elements from that story carry over into The Heart of a Vicar.  The Heart of a Vicar tells the story of Harold and is the seventh book in the Jonquil series. Here are the books that are part of the Jonquil family's story:

• The Kiss of a Stranger (Honorary Brother, Crispin)
  
• Friends and Foes (Philip Jonquil)
  
• Drops of Gold (Layton Jonquil)
• As You Are (Corbin Jonquil)
• A Fine Gentleman (Jason Jonquil)
  
• For Love or Honor (Stanley Jonquil)
• The Heart of a Vicar  (Harry Jonquil)

Here are the books of the Lancaster series:

• Seeking Peresphone
• Courting Miss Lancaster
• Romancing Daphne
• Loving Lieutenant Lancaster

I've read Eden's other books in the series (some several times over) and Harold is usually portrayed as a tightly wound vicar that has trouble interacting socially. The Heart of a Vicar really shows a different side of Harold and how lost he feels within his role as a vicar. Sarah inspires him to be himself and to figure out what he wants in life. I liked Harold better after reading his story and understood him a bit better. In the other novels, he comes out a bit pompous and socially awkward. I usually cringe a little when he interacts with his brothers. It was interesting to see the reasons behind his behavior and get to know his character better. I loved getting to know his hobbies. It really made his character more interesting and dynamic. He's now one of my favorites. I was annoyed at times with Sarah for pushing Harold too hard to change, but I knew what Harold was going through as a reader and she didn't. The Heart of a Vicar also revisits several of the other characters from Sarah Eden's books. If you read them out of order, it would ruin the twists and suspense leading up to this story. I've been anticipating this book for a while and I wasn't disappointed. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! I know it'll be at least a year before the next one comes out, but I can't wait! If you haven't read about the Jonquils and you enjoy romance, I would very highly suggest reading these books. I own most of the series and reread them almost yearly. To learn more about The Heart of a Vicar, click here.

I would also suggest following Sarah Eden on social media. Sometimes, she does giveaways for her books and gives "slight" hints at what is to come. Her Facebook page is here and her Instagram is here.

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Please note that I received a free copy to facilitate this review, however, my opinions are my own. The giveaway is facilitated by the publisher. There are affiliate links in this post that help to facilitate the maintenance of this blog.

Refuge at Pine Lake Blog Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Series: Pine Haven  
Genre: Christian, Contemporary  
Publisher: Chanson Books  
Publication date: March 7, 2019

Robin Lancaster, a twenty-six-year-old former kindergarten teacher, has her summer and her life all figured out. She’s ready to be on her own, writing and illustrating her children’s stories at her family’s beloved lake house. Once there, she intends to rekindle a romance with Caleb Jackson, the area’s top hunting and fishing guide, and bag him for herself. Complications arise from the start when Robin finds out her mother has rented the lake house to a man they know nothing about. Matthew McLaughlin, forty-year-old widowed university professor and author from California, shows up at Pine Lake in crisis. A sabbatical might be his only hope to save much more than his career. He needs a place of refuge. Sharing the lake house with a lighthearted young woman and her dog is the last thing on his mind. Caleb Jackson has his own plans. He’s used to things going his way, but a man staying in Robin’s house presents unforeseen challenges. When paths unavoidably entangle for these three, hearts are on the line.

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About the Author

Rose Chandler Johnson is known for her heartwarming, inspirational writing. In addition to works of sweet contemporary fiction, her devotional journal, God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea: Experiencing God in the Midst of Everyday Moments won the Georgia Author of the Year Finalist Award in 2014. In her novels, Rose brings to life fascinating characters with compelling relationships embracing family, community, and faith. In distinctive southern settings, Rose creates memorable stories that will stir your heart. Readers often say her writing warms the soul as it reaffirms belief in love and wholesome goodness. Don’t be surprised if you sigh with pleasure as you savor the final pages of her stories. Rose has lived in a suburb of Augusta, GA for thirty plus years. Before retiring from Georgia’s school system, she taught English, French, and ESOL. Currently, she is an English instructor at a community college. In addition to reading and writing, Rose enjoys cooking, sewing, gardening, and spending time with her six children and her beautiful grandchildren.

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Review

Robin is determined to have the perfect summer and capture the attention of Caleb. She plans to stay at her family's lake house even though her mother rented it out. Her determination and forcefulness makes her a little hard to like at first. She seems more concerned about her needs without realizing how much she's infringing on the tenant's privacy.



Gradually, her character becomes more likable and I was cheering for her to realize that she should be shifting her attention away from Caleb to Matt. Matt's emotional state seems a bit overdone at first. I think it's a decent "beach" or "summer" read. To learn more about Refuge at Pine Lake, click here.

Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card.

Giveaway ends June 14 at 11:59pm MT.

Enter the giveaway HERE.

Tour Schedule

Check out the other stops and follow along with the blog tour HERE.

Please note that I received a free copy of this book to facilitate this review, however my opinion remains my own.