Tethered (The Mosaic Collection Book 12) by Eleanor Bertin

ABOUT THE BOOK

Perfectionistic librarian Jacqui Penn is ripped up by the roots when she’s dumped by her longtime boyfriend. Rootless and on the run, she is drawn two thousand miles west across Canada to the last place she ever thought could offer stability—the old homestead where her father grew up.
Renovating the derelict house soon becomes a personal battle as it stubbornly resists her efforts. While Jacqui struggles to renew the home, she spends time with the family Pops bitterly resented. Her hunger for roots grows stronger as she fights to discover the long-buried reasons her father fled the house as a beleaguered teen. But will she ever find the belonging she craves?

MY THOUGHTS.....

A woman, whose life has been colored by her father's perception of the family he left behind, finds herself going back to that family farm in Alberta, Canada. When her long-term relationship abruptly ends, she travels across Canada to begin again and it is there that Jacqui Penn finds a family and a personal relationship with God. Is it possible that she might also find a true and lasting romantic love?

Eleanor Bertin has written a story about restoration in many forms. Jacqui sets out to restore the house that she inherited from her uncle and in the process, finds her relationship with her previously unknown family being restored. And it is there, in a new home and a new life, that she is released from her past and finally finds God. It is here that Jacqui Penn is truly restored!

If you are looking for a feel-good, light, and fluffy story, this may not be your answer. But if you want to read a realistic portrayal of a woman who has weathered many storms and ended up a much better person, you will certainly want to read Tethered! I recommend this book to all who enjoy contemporary Christian fiction.

I received a digital copy of this book from the author. I was never obligated to write a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Prior to thirty years of raising and home-educating a family of seven children, Eleanor Bertin worked in agriculture journalism. She holds a college diploma in Communications and returned to writing with her first novel, Lifelines, followed by the memoir, Pall of Silence, about her late son, Paul. Unbound is her second novel.

Eleanor lives with her husband and youngest son amid the ongoing renovation of a century home in central Alberta where she reads, writes, sweeps up construction rubble and blogs about a sometimes-elusive contentment at jewelofcontentment.wordpress.com. 

You can also visit her Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram


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Don't Keep Silent (Uncommon Justice, #3) by Elizabeth Goddard

ABOUT THE BOOK

Justice comes easy for these two. But forgiveness? That's another matter altogether.

Investigative reporter Rae Burke will do anything to find her missing sister-in-law, even if it means facing Liam McKade, a man who almost lost his life saving hers. A former DEA agent, Liam thought he could find peace at his Wyoming ranch, but he doesn't feel at home anywhere anymore. When the reporter who blew his cover on an important investigation inserts herself back into his life, he's less than thrilled. But Rae's keen investigative skills have led her down the right path--and directly into the dragon's mouth--leaving Liam no choice but to protect her.

As the danger increases, the past they both tried to flee catches up to them, along with the feelings they once had for each other . . .

MY THOUGHTS.....

Don't Keep Silent is the riveting conclusion of the Uncommon Justice series and author Elizabeth Goddard has created a memorable story to shine the light on the third McKade brother. Liam McKade is a former DEA agent and his plans to live a quiet life in Wyoming are challenged when he recognizes a face from his past. Liam once saved an investigative reporter's life and now, he is shocked when Rae Burke suddenly reappears. Her sister-in-law is missing, Rae needs Liam's help to find her, and old feelings are revived as they begin their search. What follows is an intense, action-packed drama set in the beauty of Jackson Hole, Wyoming and the Rocky Mountains, and some of the scenes with the ski slopes will simply take your breath away! There is adventure, danger, an undeniable chemistry between Rae and Liam, and a faith-filled message that will warm your heart and offer you thoughts to ponder!

If you are looking for Christian romantic suspense that keeps you searching for answers, pick up a copy of Don't Keep Silent. You won't be disappointed!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts and opinion.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

With over one million books sold, Elizabeth Goddard is the bestselling, award-winning author of over forty romance novels and counting, including the romantic mystery, THE CAMERA NEVER LIES--a 2011 Carol Award winner. Four of her six Mountain Cove books have been contest finalists. Buried, Backfire and Deception are finalists in the Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery and Suspense, and Submerged is a Carol Award finalist. A 7th generation Texan, Elizabeth graduated from North Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and worked in high-level software sales for several years before retiring to home school her children and fulfill her dreams of writing full-time.

Learn more about Elizabeth by visiting her Website 
 Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     Bookbub


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Sincerely Yours by Kari Trumbo: Review & Giveaway with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book:  Sincerely Yours
Author: Kari Trumbo
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance
Release Date: July 26, 2019

What if you fell in love with a man you’d never met?

When marketing coordinator Liberty Dryden tries to help radio station owner and DJ Tom Higgs attract new listeners and advertisers, she hits a roadblock.

He refuses to meet with her, and she has no idea why.

Tom has an affliction that’s plagued him his whole life—a painfully crippling stutter. On air, he can speak to thousands, but in person, he stumbles to find every word.

After a woman stalked him, he’s convinced his fame and fortune are all women want. He’s unable to tell Liberty why he won’t meet in person. How could he explain his unfounded doubts and his own issues?

Without her, disaster looms for his station. But, meeting her might prove he’s right about women.
Liberty takes matters into her own hands and calls into his radio show… using an assumed name.
She never expects to hit it off with him. If she reveals her secret, it will put her new relationship and her job at risk.

Click here to get your copy!

MY THOUGHTS.....

"When you go through something, and sometimes it's out of your control, it changes you. Your first reaction is to just push back against everyone."

Author Kari Trumbo has penned a story with several subjects that are traumatic to deal with: loneliness, cancer, stuttering, and depression and she shows how they can alter a person's self-esteem. Liberty Dryden feels alone since her best friend got married and Tom Higgs believes that women are only interested in his fame and fortune. Liberty needs a job and Tom needs a marketing coordinator for his nationwide radio stations. Is it possible that they might be the answer to each other's problems?

Trumbo packs a lot of drama into the 162 pages of Sincerely Yours. There is a daughter searching for a father she's never met, a relationship that is threatened by a secret, and a friendship that develops through email correspondence. Could this friendship become more? Is it possible to fall in love with someone you've never seen?

There is also a sweet romance between two very likable characters and an intriguing plot with a subtle faith message. I recommend Sincerely Yours to anyone who enjoys contemporary Christian fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit. I wasn't obligated to write a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

About the Author

Kari Trumbo is a bestselling author of Christian historical and contemporary romance novels. Her books are known for characters who feel real, settings you could move to, and faith woven between the pages. She makes her home in central Minnesota with her husband of over twenty years, two daughters, two sons, and never enough time.

More from Kari

Thank you all so much for joining me on my blog tour! I’m happy to be here. I write an eclectic mix of historical (western) and contemporary (western and not) romance, sometimes with a hint of suspense woven in. I can’t help it; my education is a degree in psychology with a sociology minor focusing on criminality and deviance… the suspense just happens whether I plan it or not.

I am one of those writers who usually gets a story idea and then writes it. I usually don’t write a book just because I “should”. That being said, this is one of those books where readers asked for it and I delivered. The first story in the series is in a popular book bundle Betwixt Two Hearts. In my story, the secondary character Liberty Dryden (named after one of my readers) is a really fun character, even though she’s only in a few scenes. Readers liked her so much, they wanted her to have her own happily ever after.

Then the hard part began.
I liked Liberty and I spent a while in her head, trying to figure her out. She was a tough one because Liberty has some hurts. She feels alone and a little used. Don’t we all? But how to write that in a way where the reader wasn’t bored by her self-doubt. Because, let’s face it, it’s cool when a story touches us in a way that is familiar, but if it’s overdone…snooze. I liked the idea that because of their hurts, both characters were shy. So, I gave myself a challenge. These two couldn’t meet until later in the story, but it still had to feel like a romance.
It’s a little like the movie You’ve Got Mail, but different too.

This series was my first big step outside of the western genre (which is funny, because I’m not at all western) and that forced me to think in new ways, which helped with the characters and bringing this story to life.

My favorite poignant quote from Sincerely Yours is, “If I can’t forgive those who ask for it, it ruins my witness. I literally can’t be the love of Jesus if I’m not willing to forgive those who wronged me. Especially if they earnestly ask.”

Thank you for joining me and happy reading!

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, July 24

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 24

Inklings and notions, July 25

For Him and My Family, July 26

deb’s Book Review, July 26

Older & Smarter?, July 27

Through the Fire Blogs, July 28

reviewingbooksplusmore, July 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 29

Wishful Endings, July 30

Rebecca Tews, July 30

Britt Reads Fiction, July 31

Life, Love, Writing, July 31

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, August 1

Read Review Rejoice, August 1

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 2

Captive Dreams Window, August 2

Book of Ruth Ann, August 3

Pause for Tales, August 3

Godly Book Reviews, August 4

Livin’ Lit, August 4

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, August 5

Batya’s Bits, August 5

Artistic Nobody, August 6 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, August 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kari is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and signed copies of Sincerely Yours and Winter in Wonderland!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

 https://promosimple.com/ps/fe33/sincerely-yours-celebration-tour-giveaway

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These Nameless Things by Shawn Smucker

ABOUT THE BOOK

Once held captive and tortured on a mysterious mountain, Dan was lucky to have made it out alive. But freedom comes at a cost. Left with little memory of the horrific ordeal, Dan remembers one thing—his escape meant having to leave his brother behind.With each day that passes, Dan waits with other survivors in hope of his brother’s escape. But just as long-forgotten memories start rising to the surface, the sudden appearance of a wounded woman throws everything further into question. As Dan struggles to know whom to trust, he is caught once again in a paralyzing moral dilemma—but this time, will he choose to save his own life or his brother’s life?

A poignant tale of the bonds of brotherhood, These Nameless Things will have readers frantically flipping pages for answers in this thought-provoking narrative.

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is a book that definitely made me think! In his author's note, Shawn Smucker talks about how Dante's Inferno influenced this story and even though I haven't read that classic, I am certainly intrigued with this book and its themes of grief, guilt, hope, and forgiveness. Dan is a person consumed by doubts and guilt and he blames himself for a tragedy that occurred because he allowed his brother Adam to fly a plane while he was under the influence of alcohol. After Dan and several others flee a mountain village that sounds a lot like purgatory, Dan feels even more guilt because he left his brother behind to endure the torture of that place. Even as he dreads the thought of returning, he can't forget that his brother is still there and he feels that he is the one who must save him.

Smucker has created several memorable characters for These Nameless Things but two are especially intriguing to me. Kathy is a deceitful person who isn't as she seems and Abe is patient, wise, and forgiving. Much of the first part of this book relates to Dan's efforts to save Adam and the second half shows the travelers regaining memories of their past lives as they journey to a land that promises love and forgiveness. I must say that the ending scenes are especially poignant and thought-provoking!

I had many questions left unanswered and I'm sure there will be many interpretations of this story. I recommend These Nameless Things to all who enjoy fantasy and allegorical fiction.

I received a copy of this book through the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to post a positive review and the views expressed are my own opinion.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Shawn Smucker is an author and co-writer who lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He has also written the award-winning novel, The Day the Angels Fell, its sequel, The Edge of Over There, and Light from Distant Stars. 

You can find out more about him at his Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

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A Heartwarming Romance Collection by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

Brunstetter’s First Published Novels Brought Back to Print
 Enjoy a collectible volume of three early novels by New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter. Meet three couples from Washington state who are who are surprised by love.

Clowning Around
Always a fun-loving prankster even when not personifying Slow-Joe the Clown, Joe Richey tries to win the heart of always steady and serious Lois Johnson.

The Neighborly Thing
Glen Olsen is rather fascinated by his new neighbor, Sinda Shull, who keeps herself shut away, working at a home business. But Glen’s daughter is trying to prove that Sinda is up to no good.

Talking for Two
Despite stuttering, Tabby enrolls in a class on ventriloquism, but guidance from handsome professional Seth Byers could destroy the little self-confidence she has.

MY THOUGHTS.....

There are three books in this new collection and even though the characters are all different, they all share the common setting of Washington and the central theme of love and friendship. Wanda E. Brunstetter tells the stories of: a young woman who hopes to learn ventriloquism, despite her stuttering problem; a young girl who is determined to prove that a neighbor is up to no good; and a serious young woman who receives attention from a guy who loves jokes and pranks. All of these people are searching for reassurance and acceptance but perhaps, along the way, they can find friendship and even...love!

These contemporary romance books were written before Brunstetter achieved her great success in writing Amish fiction and I consider them to be entertaining reads, even though they may not appeal to her most ardent Amish fans. Brunstetter's deep Christian faith is evident in all three stories and they are all books that I would gladly share with others. They certainly deserve to be in "A Heartwarming Romance Collection"!

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. There was no obligation for a positive review and these are my honest thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author, Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She has written close to 90 books translated in four languages. With over 10 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nations most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.

To learn more about Wanda, visit her website  Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest

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Ready to Trust (Hearts of Oklahoma, #2) by Tina Radcliffe

ABOUT THE BOOK

Proving he’s a changed man could be his biggest challenge yet.Rancher Reece Rainbolt’s shocked to learn he’s inherited half of Claire Ballard’s family farm—and that he’s a father. Now Claire’s determined to break ties with the man who once left her behind. But Reece will buy her half only on one condition: she must stay in town to help with the harvest…and let him get to know his little girl.



MY THOUGHTS.....

Ready to Trust proves once again why I enjoy Tina Radcliffe's books so much. The very handsome rancher on the cover turns out to be even more special on the inside and even though he's made mistakes, he certainly isn't the person he was six years ago. Reece Rainbolt is now a hardworking man dedicated to his family but what he doesn't know is that his family has increased by one. Yes, Reece is shocked to learn that he has a five-year-old daughter and the fact that her mother kept Zoe a secret from him makes it clear that Claire Ballard won't readily accept him back in her life. Could there be trouble in the making?

"Maybe eventually they'd get to a place where she trusted him. Maybe even more than simply trusted him, though he wasn't sure what that meant." (p. 127)

Claire and Reece's history is filled with misunderstandings and raw emotions and now, they must try to find the best solution for their daughter. Claire's trust issues and Reece's efforts to prove her wrong remind us that we all deserve forgiveness and second chances. Radcliffe shows the hurt that Claire Ballard has carried for six years and she vividly portrays Reece's agony over missing out on the first five years of his daughter's life! Will Claire be able to accept that he may have changed? Is her pride stronger than her desire to do what's best for Zoe? And finally, can Reece prove that he deserves the chance to be a true father to this precious little girl?

Ready to Trust is proof positive of Radcliffe's skill in writing contemporary Christian fiction and I recommend it to all who enjoy this genre. It is a heartwarming story with a faith message that brightly shines throughout and I'm eager to see what's in store for Reece's brother Tucker in the next book of this Hearts of Oklahoma series.

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was under no obligation to write a favorable review and these are my own thoughts.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Originally from Western, N.Y., author Tina Radcliffe left home for a tour of duty with the Army Security Agency stationed in Augsburg, Germany and ended up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. While living in Tulsa she spent ten years as a Certified Oncology R.N. A freelance writer for over twenty years, Tina was a founding member and the manager of Seekerville, a 13 author blog, from 2008-2017. Seekerville has been a Writer's Digest 101 Best Websites for Writers award winner 2013-2017.

An RWA and ACFW Honor Roll member, Tina is also a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist. She is a four-time ACFW Carol Award finalist and a three-time ACFW Mentor of the year finalist.

​In 2014 she won the ACFW Carol Award and in 2018 she won the ACFW Mentor of the Year Award. In 2019 she is a Holt Winner and an ACFW Carol Award finalist and an ACFW Mentor of the Year finalist.

​She has finaled/or won over thirty RWA chapter affiliated contests in her career. As a short story writer, she has sold over three dozen short stories to Woman’s World Magazine.

Tina is a member of Romance Writers of America, including the Kiss of Death Chapter, Faith, Hope & Love Chapter, Desert Rose Romance Writers,  Valley of the Sun Romance Writers, Contemporary Romance Writers and Greater Seattle RWA. She is also a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, their local affiliate, Christian Writers of the West. A popular workshop speaker, she currently resides in Arizona where she writes fun, heartwarming romance.

You can connect with Tina at her Website     Facebook     Twitter   Pinterest      Instagram     BookBub 

Tina also have a great newsletter filled with fun facts and great giveaways for her newsletter subscribers. Sign up for her newsletter HERE.

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The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids 2: 800+ Jokes by Carole P Roman

ABOUT THE BOOK

800+ More silly jokes for kids to keep them laughing!

Calling all comedians! This is the super silly joke-book sequel you've been waiting for! Welcome to The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids 2--the second installment in this best-selling kid's humor series that's guaranteed to make you a local legend--or, at least, the cleverest coyote on your block!

Inside, you'll find hundreds of clean and corny jokes for kids, including knee-slappin' knock-knocks, side-splitting puns, rib-tickling riddles, and a whole lot more! All reading levels are sure to love it on long car rides, family vacations, and around the house. There's also a joke-writing chapter in the back to create your own laughs!

The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids 2 features:

• Jokes galore--Discover family-friendly jokes for kids in every format that are sure to tickle your funny bone!
• Hilarious images--LOL-funny illustrations make reading engaging for all ages.
• Fun facts, too!--In every chapter, you'll find Silly Stats to learn a little as you laugh.

You're sure to become the toast of the town with The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids 2!

MY THOUGHTS.....

"What do you call boo-boo on a T. rex? A dino-sore."

"What do you call a turkey after Thanksgiving? Lucky"

The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids 2 truly lives up to its title! Author Carole P. Roman has written a follow-up to her first successful volume that was published in 2019 and, once again, she shares jokes and riddles that will tickle your child's funny bone. With over 800+ jokes, the fun begins with silly Q&As, followed by knock-knock jokes, tongue twisters, puns & one-liners, riddles, and even a chance for kids to write their own jokes. There are also some 'silly stats' scattered throughout the book to increase their knowledge. If you're looking for fun, laughter, and good clean fun for your children or grandchildren, you will want to get this book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Callisto Media Publisher's Club. There was no obligation to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carole P. Roman is the award-winning author of over fifty children's books. Whether it's pirates, princesses, or discovering the world around us, her books have enchanted educators, parents, and her diverse audience of children. She hosts a blog radio program called Indie Authors Roundtable and is one of the founders of the magazine, Indie Author's Monthly. She's been interviewed twice by Forbes Magazine. Carole has co-authored two self-help books. Navigating Indieworld: A Beginners Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing with Julie A. Gerber, and Marketing Indieworld with both Julie A. Gerber and Angela Hausman. She published Mindfulness for Kids with J. Robin Albertson-Wren and a new joke book called The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids: 800+ Jokes!
She writes adult fiction under the name Brit Lunden and is currently helping to create an anthology with her mythical town of Bulwark, Georgia with a group of indie authors. She lives on Long Island near her children and grandchildren.

Her series includes:
Captain No Beard
If You Were Me and Lived in- Cultural
If You Were Me and Lived in- Historical
Nursery series
Oh Susannah- Early Reader and coloring book
Mindfulness for Kids with co-author J. Robin Albertson-Wren
The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids; 800 plus Jokes!
Navigating Indieworld- with co-author Julie A. Gerber
Marketing Indieworld- with co-authors Angela Hausman and Julie A. Gerber
Adult Fiction under the pen name Brit Lunden
Bulwark
The Knowing- A Bulwark Anthology 

Learn more at her Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

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Falling for the Innkeeper by Meghann Whistler

ABOUT THE BOOK

A battle for a charming Cape Cod inn… 

But what happens when romance checks in?

Single mom Laura Lessoway won’t accept her mother’s plan of selling her late grandmother’s beachfront inn without a fight. But when big-city attorney Jonathan Masters arrives to arrange an offer from his client, she’s drawn to him. And although he came to Cape Cod to close an important business deal—not fall in love—he can’t get her out of his mind.

Laura and Jonathan each try to fight their attraction and focus on business, but it’s not long before Jonathan finds himself confiding in her his other reason for coming to The Sea Glass Inn—he’s trying to find his mentally ill father, who’s recently been spotted at a nearby homeless shelter.

Working together to find Jonathan’s father only brings Laura and Jonathan closer. But with his career and her home on the line, can they ever find common ground?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Christianbook

MY THOUGHTS.....

Falling for the Innkeeper is a debut novel with all of the elements needed for a winning story: a single mother, her adorable four-year-old daughter, a beautiful setting, and a handsome hero with a troubled past. Laura Lessoway's only desire is to keep her late grandmother's inn open and to provide a safe and loving environment for her daughter Emma but the arrival of lawyer Jonathan Masters threatens to take this dream away. What follows is a story of conflict and discovery, as they both learn that perhaps their original goals weren't what they wanted after all. Is Jonathan's need to achieve actually a shield to keep from getting hurt? Will Laura accept that she can't use her ex-husband's actions to hold others at arms length?

Author Meghann Whistler has written the perfect story for summer reading and I found myself wanting to vacation at The Sea Glass Inn and experience the beauty of Cape Cod. I wanted to get to know these very human, but complicated, characters and I wanted to cheer them on as they worked to build a future. Falling for the Innkeeper is a sweet, entertaining romance and I recommend it to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance. I also look forward to more books from this first-time author!

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was under no obligation to post a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meghann Whistler writes sweet Christian romance novels that won’t make your grandmother blush. 

A hopeless romantic who met her husband on a blind date, Meghann recently left her marketing career to pursue her lifelong passion of writing sweet, hopeful stories that demonstrate the power of love and grace.

Before settling down with her rocket scientist husband and raising three rambunctious boys, Meghann earned a B.A. in English from Amherst College and an M.F.A. in creative writing from Emerson College.

Falling for the Innkeeper is her first inspirational romance, but definitely not her last! She loves to hear from her readers, who can reach her at www.meghannwhistler.com.

CONNECT WITH MEGHANN: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram


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A Bride of Convenience (The Bride Ships, #3) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

Unemployed mill worker Zoe Hart jumps at the opportunity to emigrate to British Columbia in 1863 to find a better life and be reunited with her brother, who fled from home after being accused of a crime.

Pastor to miners in the mountains, Abe Merivale discovers an abandoned baby during a routine visit to Victoria and joins efforts with Zoe, one of the newly arrived bride-ship women, to care for the infant. While there, he's devastated by the news from his fiancee in England that she's marrying another man.

With mounting pressure to find the baby a home, Zoe accepts a proposal from a miner of questionable character after he promises to help her locate her brother. Intent on protecting Zoe and frustrated by his failed engagement, Abe offers his own hand as groom. After a hasty wedding, they soon realize their marriage of convenience is not so convenient after all.

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:

Buy Bride of Convenience at Amazon

Buy Bride of Convenience at Christianbook.com

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is the third book in The Bride Ships series and each time, I've asked myself if I could board a ship, cross an ocean on a long, harrowing journey, and marry a man I had never met? Each time, after reading these stories, I have been reminded that these young women had no jobs and no promise of a husband and family, so why not take a chance?

A Bride of Convenience may be the sweetest story so far, simply because of the heroine Zoe Hart. Her caring and loving heart and her outward appearance certainly make her appealing to the bachelors eager to find brides in British Columbia but will she choose the right man? It doesn't take long for Pastor Abraham Merivale to discover how special Zoe is and he steps in to keep her from marrying a man who is corrupt and completely unsavory. Abe, however, believes that this is Christian duty, and Zoe soon realizes that her marriage will simply make her a bride of convenience.

Author Jody Hedlund has certainly created some memorable characters for this story. I loved seeing Zoe's love for children and her determination to keep a baby girl who has lost her native mother to death and her Canadian father to alcoholism. Remember, this was 1863 and people didn't accept mixed-blood heritage so four-month old Violet had no one to love and care for her. I enjoyed reading Zoe's reaction to this man who was too handsome to be a minister and I wondered if she could accept that this might be a marriage in name only.  I admired Abe for his Christian faith and his desire to lead everyone to Christ and not just cater to people judged worthy by the Bishop, but I did, however, agree with young Will's very wise statement about Abe and Zoe's relationship. "I don't know much about women, but any ole fool could see you made everyone else more a priority than her. You're always rushing around to help others, which is good. But maybe she don't think she matters."  Yes, Abe was a little dense concerning the young woman he had married!

This is an entertaining story filled with history, inspiration, and sweet romance. I highly recommend A Bride of Convenience!

I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House. There was no obligation to write a positive review and these are my honest thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Winner of the 2016 Christian Book Award and finalist for the Christy Awards, best-selling author Jody Hedlund writes inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.  You can find Jody at the following locations:

Discover more about Jody at her WebPage  
Facebook     Twitter     Goodreads     Instagram     Pinterest


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A Gilded Lady (Hope & Glory, #2) by Elizabeth Camden

ABOUT THE BOOK

Caroline Delacroix is at the pinnacle of Washington high society in her role as secretary to the First Lady of the United States. But beneath the facade of her beauty, glamorous wardrobe, and dazzling personality, she's hiding a terrible secret. If she cannot untangle a web of foreign espionage, her brother will face execution for treason.

Nathaniel Trask is the newly appointed head of the president's Secret Service team. He is immediately attracted to Caroline's quick wit and undeniable charm, but his job leaves no room for distractions. Anarchist plots have led to mounting threats against the president, forcing him to put duty before his growing love for Caroline.

Amid the glamorous pageantry of Guilded Age Washington, DC, Caroline and Nathaniel face danger and heartbreak that shakes them to their core and tests all they know about love and sacrifice.

MY THOUGHTS.....

I am so in awe of Elizabeth Camden's ability to keep readers completely immersed in historical fiction and A Gilded Lady is the perfect example of her talent. I loved learning the duties associated with being the secretary to the First Lady and this was certainly the job that Caroline Delacroix was meant to have. She had been used to a life of wealth and advantage so serving First Lady Ada McKinley was the perfect way to accept her brother Gray's dare to join the workforce! A Gilded Lady also offers a glimpse of the administration of President William McKinley, his marriage with his ailing wife Ada, and his shocking assassination. As I read about the efforts to save him and how his death affected the United States, I was immediately taken to 1963 and the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Camden completely captured the disbelief, the grief, and the fears that surrounded Americans in 1901, because we felt them again sixty-two years later! I was also intrigued with the 'behind-the-scenes' details of life in the White House--the staff, the security, and the challenges of being President and First Lady. It's very apparent that the author extensively researched these facts and I assure you...fans of historical fiction will absolutely relish this book!

This story, however, offers so much more than just history. Family secrets, divided loyalties, treason, and conspiracy are all featured in this fictional story, and then, there are the very human feelings of Caroline and Secret Service agent Nathaniel Trask!  Will Nathaniel overcome his feelings of guilt and failure in his protection of President McKinley?  Can two people as different as Caroline and Nathaniel find a common meeting ground and perhaps, discover love? Does Nathaniel's evident faith encourage Caroline to seek her own walk with God?

This is the second book in the Hope and Glory series and I am eagerly looking forward to the series conclusion that is scheduled to release in 2021. I highly recommend A Gilded Lady for all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was in no way influenced to write a favorable review. These are my honest thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Camden is a college librarian by day and an author on the weekends.She is married and she states that "I should never take my husband for granted. I give daily thanks for the blessing of being able to share a life with my favorite person on the planet,"

And who is she really? "I love old Hitchcock films, the hour before sunset, a long, sweaty run through the Florida countryside, and a glass of good wine. After spending my entire adult life on a college campus (either as a student or a librarian) I have finally been able to pursue my ultimate goal of writing professionally."

Learn more about Elizabeth Camden by clicking below.

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