The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus by Jaime Jo Wright

ABOUT THE BOOK

1928

The Bonaventure Circus is a refuge for many, but Pippa Ripley was rejected from its inner circle as a baby. When she receives mysterious messages from someone called the "Watchman," she is determined to find him and the connection to her birth. As Pippa's search leads her to a man seeking justice for his murdered sister and evidence that a serial killer has been haunting the circus train, she must decide if uncovering her roots is worth putting herself directly in the path of the killer.

Present Day
The old circus train depot will either be torn down or preserved for historical importance, and its future rests on real estate project manager Chandler Faulk's shoulders. As she dives deep into the depot's history, she's also balancing a newly diagnosed autoimmune disease and the pressures of single motherhood. When she discovers clues to the unsolved murders of the past, Chandler is pulled into a story far darker and more haunting than even an abandoned train depot could portend.

MY THOUGHTS.....

What could be more intriguing than a book with a beloved baby elephant named Lily and an unknown person known as The Watchman? Especially when they both are such major parts of the story? Once again, Jaime Jo Wright has given readers words to relish, memorable characters that aren't easily forgotten, and two stories, one from the past and the other set in the present, that are connected in ways that I could never dream. Wright's vivid imagination and her descriptive powers make The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus a book to read again, and I found myself going back to read some sections more than once. I just had to make sure that I truly understood what was happening and, I must add, I will never think of a circus in quite the same way as I once did!

I read Wright's first book, The House on Foster Hill, in 2017 and I knew that I'd found an author to follow, Now, with this fifth book, I can honestly say that her imagination and her writing skills have only gotten better. No one does time-split better and very few authors can give you the same spine-tingling, hair-raising thrills and chills! The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus has all of this, plus a reminder that broken and blemished people are loved by their Creator and are capable of being redeemed by Him!

I absolutely loved The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus and I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. There was no obligation to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts and opinions.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Daphne du Maurier and Christy Award-Winning author, Jaime Jo Wright resides in the hills of Wisconsin writing suspenseful, mysteries stained with history's secrets. Jaime lives in dreamland, exists in reality, and invites you to join her adventures at her Website     Facebook     Twitter    Pinterest    Instagram

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The Mockingbird's Song (Amish Greenhouse Mystery #2) by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sylvia has been nearly paralyzed with grief and anxiety since the tragic death of her husband, father, and brother in a traffic accident. She tries to help in the family’s greenhouse while caring for her two young children, but she prefers not to have to deal with customers. Her mother’s own grief causes her to hover over her children and grandchildren, and Sylvia seeks a diversion. She takes up birdwatching and soon meets an Amish man who teaches her about local birds. But Sylvia’s mother doesn’t trust Dennis Weaver, and as the relationship sours, mysterious attacks on the greenhouse start up again.

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is the second book in the Amish Greenhouse Mystery series and I was anxious to see how the Beiler family was doing following the tragic accident that occurred in The Crow's Call. One year later, all of them are still dealing with the trauma of losing three beloved family members. Matriarch Belinda continues to rely on prayer and her trust in God to help her navigate the grief and uncertainties of being a widow and she is a wonderful example of faith in action but much of The Mockingbird's Song centers around her daughter Sylvia's own journey to finding a "new normal" as a young widow raising two toddlers without her husband. There are also many questions that added great interest to this story as I kept searching for answers. Who continues to cause trouble with the acts of vandalism at the family greenhouse? Why is Virginia, the English neighbor across the road, so unhappy and why does she dislike the Amish so much? Will the two men who are showing interest in both Belinda and Sylvia become part of this family? Is there a second chance at love for these Beiler women or will romance cause more problems for their family?

Author Wanda E. Brunstetter once again shows that Amish people aren't immune to problems, heartaches, and even doubts, but in the end, their faith helps carry them through. The Mockingbird's Song is an inspiring, intriguing, and entertaining addition to the Amish Greenhouse Mystery series and fans of Brunstetter and Amish fiction won't be disappointed!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I wasn't obligated to write a favorable review and these are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 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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The Black Midnight by Kathleen Y'Barbo: Review & Giveaway with Celebrate Lit

ABOUT THE BOOKBook: The Black Midnight

Author: Kathleen Y’Barbo
Genre: Christian Historical Suspense
Release Date: August, 2020

Death Seems to Follow Harriet’s New Friend

Book 7 in the True Colors series—Fiction Based on Strange-But True History

Three years before Jack the Ripper began his murderous spree on the streets of London, women were dying in their beds as The Midnight Assassin terrorized the citizens of Austin, Texas. Now, with suspicion falling on Her Majesty’s family and Scotland Yard at a loss as to who the Ripper might be, Queen Victoria summons her great-granddaughter, Alice Anne von Wettin, a former Pinkerton agent who worked the unsolved Austin case, and orders her to discreetly form a team to look into the London matter.

The prospect of a second chance to work with Annie just might entice Isaiah Joplin out of his comfortable life as an Austin lawyer. If his theories are right, they’ll find the The Midnight Assassin and, by default, the Ripper. If they’re wrong, he and Annie are in a bigger mess than the one the feisty female left behind when she departed Austin under cover of darkness three years ago.

Can the unlikely pair find the truth of who is behind the murders before they are drawn into the killer’s deadly game? From Texas to London, the story navigates the fine line between truth and fiction as Annie and Isaiah ultimately find the hunters have become the hunted.

Click here to get your copy!

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is the seventh book in the True Colors series and once again readers are introduced to a true crime from the past. This time, the crimes committed were three years apart and on two different continents but a possibility existed that they might be connected. Was it possible that the young women murdered in Austin, Texas in the mid-1880s were the victims of the same killer who took so many lives in 1888 London? Were the Midnight Assassin and Jack the Ripper the same person?

These are the questions posed in The Black Midnight and I was fascinated with the historical details that author Kathleen Y'Barbo has woven into her fictional story. Jack the Ripper is a well-known person but I wasn't aware of the The Midnight Assassin's killing spree in Austin and, even though the connection between the two cases has never been proven, it does provide an intriguing theory. Annie von Wettin and Isaiah Joplin are the very likable characters involved in both cases and the fact that Annie is the great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria adds a wonderful complication. I also enjoyed the sweet romance between Ike and Annie: the connection that they had experienced three years earlier seemed lost but were those feelings just sleeping, waiting to be awakened?

The Black Midnight has mystery, suspense, violence, and death but the romantic chemistry and humorous dialogue offer relief from any gruesome details. Y'Barbo has written an entertaining and informative story and it is a worthy addition to True Colors, the Christian suspense series from Barbour Publishing.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher via Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a favorable review and I am sharing my own opinions.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

About the Author

Bestselling author Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee of more than sixty novels with almost two million copies of her books in print in the US and abroad.

More from Kathleen Y’Barbo

I am a tenth generation Texan, but London has held a place in my heart for over ten years. You see, I have a son who has lived there for more than a decade. Thanks to him and his family of three—my granddaughter was born there on New Year’s Eve 2019—the city will always be special to me. There is absolutely nothing like walking those streets with a thousand years of history close enough to touch.

It was on a walk with my son through this great city that the stories of nineteenth century London came alive. With fog shrouding the rooftops of buildings that were hundreds of years old and our footsteps echoing on the cobblestones, I could imagine a time when lack of electricity and CCTV would make this place less than charming on a dark night. What reminded me of my favorite childhood movie, Mary Poppins, quickly became more reminiscent of Jack the Ripper. And then a story was born.

Only I just had half the story.

The other half came to me several years later when I stumbled across an article in Texas Monthly magazine about a serial killer who rampaged through Austin, Texas in 1884 and 1885 and was never caught. Some surmised this madman, called “The Midnight Assassin” by some, might have been Jack the Ripper honing his skills before he crossed the Atlantic to begin his famous crime spree in Great Britain.

But Austin? Ironically, my other two sons lived in Austin. So while part of my heart was in London, two more parts of that same heart resided in the Texas capital. I thought I knew Austin inside out. Between one of my sons getting not one but two degrees from the University of Texas (this Aggie grad is still proud of him in spite of what I jokingly call his burnt orange rebellion) and my other son living there and managing a restaurant at the time (and who just graduated from Texas A&M Galveston last month!), I had spent many years in the city. And yet I had never heard of the Midnight Assassin.

Research turned up a tale that sounds so close to fiction I had to write about it. Discovering the theory that the Austin killer might also be the Ripper just added to my interest—neither had been caught. And I like to write about Pinkerton detectives.

From there the story unfolded. If you’ve read any of my historical romances, you know that I love incorporating actual history into my stories. As you’ll see when you read The Black Midnight, this book is no exception. While I will continue writing the historical romances I love to bring to you, I will confess that writing this book has me itching to research another one like it.

What’s next in my foray into true crime novels? Maybe Houston. You see, I have a daughter who lives there…

In the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy reading The Black Midnight as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, August 27

Genesis 5020, August 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 27

Inklings and notions, August 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 28

Ashley’s Bookshelf, August 28

Older & Smarter?, August 29

Texas Book-aholic, August 29

Artistic Nobody, August 29 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

For the Love of Literature, August 30

Connie’s History Classroom, August 30

For Him and My Family, August 31

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, August 31

Betti Mace, September 1

Robin’s Nest, September 1

Bigreadersite, September 1

deb’s Book Review, September 2

Splashes of Joy, September 2

Just Your Average reviews, September 2

Rebecca Tews, September 3

Just the Write Escape, September 3

Emily Yager, September 3

Christian Bookaholic, September 4

reviewingbooksplusmore, September 4

KarenSueHadley, September 4

Remembrancy, September 5

Through the Fire Blogs, September 5

21st Century Keeper at Home, September 6

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 6

Blogging With Carol, September 6

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, September 7

Life of Literature, September 7

Mary Hake, September 7

Godly Book Reviews, September 8

Back Porch Reads, September 8

Daysong Reflections, September 8

Pause for Tales, September 9

Blossoms and Blessings, September 9

Hallie Reads, September 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathleen is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

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/ffb7/the-black-midnight-celebration-tour-giveaway

View all my reviews

A Dazzle of Diamonds (Georgia Coast Romance #3) by Liz Johnson

 ABOUT THE BOOK

Penelope Hunter loves her job as the events manager at one of Savannah’s premier historic venues–until her ex-fiancé walks into her office with his new bride-to-be. To make matters worse, a scheming social matriarch is intent on seeing Penelope fired, especially if she insists on being seen with Tucker Westbrook.

Since returning from serving two tours in the Middle East, Tucker has built a thriving security company. His work is nearly as stabilizing as his friendship with Penelope, who has been by his side since childhood. But when the lone candidate for county sheriff goads him, Tucker loses his cool and ends up on the ballot–and on the receiving end of a smear campaign claiming the Westbrooks were traitors to the South.

To clear his name, Tucker and Penelope must join forces to find the truth behind a 150-year-old lost treasure. But the more time they spend together, the closer she comes to losing her job–and falling helplessly in love.

MY THOUGHTS.....

"This was why people didn't fall in love with their best friends. Because when it didn't work out, the only person she wanted to go to for comfort was the one person she wasn't speaking to."

Penelope Hunter and Tucker Westbrook have been best friends all of their lives and they've always trusted that the other would be there. And then...their efforts to disprove rumors about Tucker's family leads them into unknown waters and dangerous territory and suddenly, their friendship turns into something much deeper. Their affectionate quick hugs become pulse-altering, heart-racing embraces and their pecks on the cheek seem no longer enough! Has their relationship changed to 'always being there, as in marriage", or will their search for answers drive them apart?

A Dazzle of Diamonds is wonderfully romantic and there is also an intriguing mystery woven throughout the story. I especially enjoyed the entries from a diary and letters written during the Civil War that shed light on the activities of Tucker's family during that time. These records of a secret romance certainly add interest to PJ and Tucker's current emotions and the details about the treasure are totally surprising!

Author Liz Johnson has created some wonderful characters for A Dazzle of Diamonds, the third book of her Georgia Coast Romance series. PJ and Tucker experience both spiritual growth and emotional maturity and Tucker's Aunt Shirley is truly a "gem" as she offers her wisdom and guidance. "Ask God to show you his plan. It'll be better than any plan you could make."

If you are looking for a book that causes you to think, makes you feel good, and leaves you smiling, then this contemporary Christian romance is the book for you!

I received a copy of this book from Revell. A favorable review was never required and the opinions expressed are solely my own. 

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Liz Johnson is the author of more than a dozen novels, including A Sparkle of Silver, A Glitter of Gold, The Red Door Inn, Where Two Hearts Meet, and On Love’s Gentle Shore, as well as a New York Times bestselling novella and a handful of short stories. She makes her home in Phoenix, Arizona.

To learn more visit her       Website     Facebook     

                                            Twitter      Instagram

 
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Silver Moon by Jenny Knipfer: Review & Giveaway Book Tour #SMBkTour.

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Silver Moon

(By the Light of the Moon #3)

By Jenny Knipfer

Christian Historical Fiction

Paperback & ebook, 411 Pages

June 30, 2020

A tale of courage and hope in the darkest of times...

Silver Moon, the third book in the series: By the Light of the Moon, paints a stunning and poignant picture of life on the home front in Webaashi Bay, Ontario, and of three men who are a part of the Canadian Expeditionary Force during WWI.

Shamed into joining the war, the tide turns for Luis Wilson when he is steered into the depths of espionage. Injured and presumed missing, will he lose his heart to the very woman who presented him with a white feather?

Oshki and Jimmy offer a grim perspective on life in the trenches. They despair of ever returning home to the women who hold their hearts.

Meanwhile, Lily fights for the cause in her own way and rallies the female troops at home as prejudices run high and the local cafe owner is accused of being a spy.

Will the women of Webaashi Bay receive their men back unscathed? Can the power of love win out over insurmountable odds? All this drama and more plays out under the light of a silver moon.

Fans of WWI historical fiction, Christian historical fiction, and literary fiction will find Silver Moon a moving, powerful read!

MY THOUGHTS.....

I'm a big fan of historical fiction but I haven't read a lot of books centered around World War I. As I read this book, it was very evident that a lot of research had been done by the author and I was very impressed with the detailed information that Jenny Knipfer includes in this story that covers the years 1914-1923. Silver Moon might even be considered an epic story, with many characters and numerous events included in the 400 pages, but it is written in a manner that makes you want to keep reading. I was completely immersed in the accounts of the men at war and I could easily imagine the fear and anxiety of the women left behind in Canada. Some of the story is told through letters shared between these men and women and their correspondence makes the varying emotions and events seem even more real!

Silver Moon reminds us of the tragedy of war but Knipfer also shows the beauty that can occur when hope, faith, and forgiveness are present. This is the third book in the By the Light of the Moon series but my enjoyment wasn't affected because I haven't read the first two. If you are looking for historical Christian fiction that leaves you wanting to learn more, you will want to read Silver Moon.

I received a copy of this book from the author via Prism Book Tours. I wasn't required to write a favorable review and these are my own opinions. 

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Praise for the Book

Taking an original angle on a tumultuous time in history, Silver Moon by Jenny Knipfer is a sparkling slice of historical fiction. Ambitiously detailing a diverse collection of characters, this World War I story bounces across space and time, delicately filled with vivid descriptions, nuanced moral dilemmas, and authentic relationships..." --Self-publishing Review

"Silver Moon is a highly recommended read for fans of historical wartime fiction, powerful emotive drama, and excellent atmospheric writing." --Readers' Favorite

"I am stunned by the amount of detail the author gave in this single story. On one hand, we have powerful characters... and on the other, we have a plot that demands all our attention. Jenny Knipfer pulls no punches and holds nothing back." --Readers' Favorite

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

About the Author

Jenny lives in Wisconsin with her husband, Ken and their pet Yorkie, Ruby. She is also a mom and loves being a grandma. She enjoys many creative pursuits but finds writing the most fulfilling.

Jenny’s education background stems from psychology, music, and cultural missions. She spent many years as a librarian in a local public library but recently switched to using her skills as a floral designer in a retail flower shop. She is now retired from work due to disability.

She authored and performed a self-published musical CD entitled, Scrapbook of a Closet Poet.

Jenny’s books, Ruby Moon, Blue Moon, and Silver Moon earned five-star reviews from Reader’s Favorite, a book review and award contest company. Their praise: “Ruby Moon is entertaining, fast-paced, and features characters that are real. Blue Moon continues a well-written and highly engaging saga of family ties, betrayals, and heartaches… Silver Moon is a highly recommended read for fans of historical wartime fiction, powerful emotive drama, and excellent atmospheric writing.”

She holds membership in the: Midwest Independent Booksellers Association, Historical Novel Society, Wisconsin Writers Association, Christian Indie Publishing Association, and Independent Book Publishers Association.

Jenny’s favorite place to relax is by the western shore of Lake Superior, where her novel series, By The Light of the Moon, is set. She has self-published the first three books, Ruby Moon, Blue Moon, and Silver Moon, in her four-part series. One more novel to complete the series is planned for 2020. She is currently writing a new historical fiction series called, Sheltering Trees.

Photo Credit: Craig Jentink

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive ebooks of all three books in the By the Light of the Moon series by Jenny Knipfer (Ruby Moon, Blue Moon and Silver Moon) and a $25 Amazon eGift Card

Open internationally to those who can use one of Amazon's branches
Ends September 9, 2020

ENTER HERE

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Love and a Little White Lie (State of Grace, #1) by Tammy L. Gray

ABOUT THE BOOK

After hitting rock bottom, January decides she has nothing to lose in working at her aunt's church--while hiding a lack of faith. A minor deception until she meets the church's guitarist and sparks fly. Can she avoid disaster--especially when a handsome landscape architect has an annoying ability to push her to deal with feelings she'd rather keep buried?

MY THOUGHTS.....

January Sanders seems to have a lot going against her. Her heart has been broken, she needs a job, she can be a bit sarcastic, and she is an ... atheist! She does, however, have a prayer warrior as an aunt so you can just imagine the change that is about to take place in her life. Jan is offered a job at Aunt Doreen's church, she meets not one, but two, fantastic men, and she witnesses God in action each and every day!

I couldn't help but love this young woman as she stumbles through this thing called life. Jan realizes the irony of taking a job at a church and being subjected to the power of faith each and every day and she feels dishonest that she hasn't confided her doubts about God. There is also added romantic tension from the attention she receives from two great men. Cameron? Dillon? Who will she choose?

How is it possible that this blessing is mine? This broken, cynical girl who denied God her entire life---how could He give me so much? I don't have an answer to that one. I doubt I ever will.

Author Tammy L. Gray has created realistic characters and credible situations to show Jan's journey to love and acceptance. It isn't without problems and uncertainty but isn't that often true in our own life journeys? This is the first book that I've read by Gray and I am anxiously looking for the next book in the State of Grace series. I recommend Love and a Little White Lie to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. A favorable review was not required and these are my own opinions.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tammy L. Gray lives in the Dallas area with her family, and they love all things Texas, even the erratic weather patterns. Her nine modern and true-to-life contemporary romances include 2017 RITA award winning, My Hope Next Door, and show her unending quest to write high quality, culturally relevant stories with relatable and flawed characters.

When not taxiing her three kids to various school and sporting events, Tammy can be spotted crunching numbers as the financial administrator at her hometown church. Writing has given her a platform to combine her passion with her ministry all while sharing the messy, yet remarkable journey that is a faith-filled life.

For all of Tammy's latest info, visit her       Website     Facebook     

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Lady Airell's Choice by Rachel Skatvold: Review & Giveaway with Celebrate Lit

         

ABOUT THE BOOK

Book:  Lady Airell’s Choice

Author: Rachel Skatvold

Genre:  Christian Medieval Romance

Release Date: January, 2019

Will one choice save her kingdom from destruction?

During a time of peace and prosperity, Princess Airell of Daireann is given the rare privilege of choosing her own suitor. As eligible rulers from all over Ardena vie for her hand, a betrothal to Prince Tristan of Órlaith seems to be the clear choice. Yet, in the midst of Lady Airell’s happiness, the winds of change are coming.

When an evil usurper from the north rises to power and his forces attack the southern kingdoms, peace in Ardena is shattered. With Daireann under siege, the princess must find the courage to protect her people. Will Lady Airell choose to sacrifice her own happiness in order to save her kingdom?

Get swept up in an epic adventure while reading this Christian medieval romance filled with themes of faith, redemption and forgiveness.

Click here to get your copy!

MY THOUGHTS.....

Like most young girls, The Princess of Daireann dreams of finding a handsome prince who will love her and cherish her forever but Lady Airell discovers that this may not happen for her. To save her family and her kingdom, she must make a decision that will require great sacrifice and perhaps doom her to a life with a man who doesn't love her as she deserves.

Lady Airell's Choice is labeled as a Christian medieval romance so there are kings, castles, adventure, and danger. There is also good versus evil and a powerful message of hope, faith, forgiveness, and redemption. I especially liked that author Rachel Skatvold provides Airell with a deep trust in God as she makes her choice and I appreciate that this trust serves to remind each of us that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him". (Romans 8:28)

Lady Airell's Choice is the first book in the Ladies of Ardena series and I found it to be an entertaining fantasy that should appeal to both young adults and adults.

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


My rating: 4 of 5 stars

About the Author

Rachel Skatvold is a Christian author and stay-at-home mom from the Midwest. She enjoys writing inspirational romance and encouraging blogs. Rachel completed her first series, the Riley Family Legacy Novellas in 2014 and is now working on the Hart Ranch Series, set in the Montana wilderness and the Ladies of Ardena Series, set in medieval times. She is also a contributing author in the Whispers in Wyoming, Brides of Pelican Rapids and Independence Island Series. Other than writing, some of her hobbies include singing, reading and camping in the great outdoors with her husband and two young sons. You can find more information about Rachel and her books on her website: www.rachelskatvold.com.

More from Rachel

The Ladies of Ardena Series has been by far my favorite series to write because the stories are adventurous fast-paced tales with themes of faith, hope and redemption. While I am more well-known for my contemporary western and small-town romance series, I have always been interested in history and fascinated with the medieval time period. Although Ardena is a fictional land, it is inspired by Irish and Scottish culture, in honor of my ancestors. Each book is also inspired by one of my six nieces and is dedicated to them. For that reason, these stories have a special place in my heart.

Lady Airell’s Choice follows the eldest daughter in the Daireann royal family who has come of age. Since it is a time of peace in the land, her father allows Airell to choose her own suitor. She is excited to start a new chapter in her life, but her dreams for the future are shattered when a usurper from the north kills her father and wages war against Daireann. Princess Airell is forced to choose between her own happiness and the survival of her kingdom.

Lady Airell’s story is inspired by Psalms 23 1-3 NLT which says: “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.” This verse is relevant during Airell’s time and in our lives today as well. We may not face the same perilous circumstances with evil kings and perilous voyages across the sea. Our battles are a little different these days, but God is still the same. He can help us through any trials and lead us down the correct path if we put our faith in Him.

Thank you for following this Celebration Tour for Lady Airell’s choice. To learn more about this book and the others in the series, please read the summary below and visit the series page on Amazon. Also, don’t’ forget to sign up for the giveaway for a chance to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card! Blessings.

Blog Stops

Texas Book-aholic, August 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 21

For the Love of Literature, August 22

Inklings and notions, August 23

Novels Corner, August 24

deb’s Book Review, August 24

For Him and My Family, August 25

Older & Smarter?, August 26

Connect in Fiction, August 27

Labor Not in Vain, August 27

Blossoms and Blessings, August 28

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, August 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 30

Pause for Tales, August 31

Emily Yager, September 1

Artistic Nobody, September 2 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!

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/ffa1/lady-airell-s-choice-celebration-tour-giveaway

View all my reviews 

Almost a Bride (The Bride Ships #4) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

Always close, but never a bride.

Longing to find true love, Kate Millington arrives in British Columbia on a bride ship. With countless men waiting to snag a bride, Kate has no trouble getting engaged. It’s staying engaged that’s the problem. After traveling to the remote mining town of Williamsville to marry her newest fiancé, she finds herself single again.

As the prosperous owner of a gold mine, Zeke Hart has everything he’s ever wanted except for a wife. At Kate’s arrival, he takes it upon himself to protect his childhood friend from the men clamoring to court her. The more he renews her friendship, the more he wants to win her for himself. But as much as Kate admires Zeke, she’s resolved not to marry someone who doesn’t share her faith.

When Zeke begins receiving anonymous threats, he unwittingly puts them both in grave danger. In the midst of peril, the past rises up to haunt them both, and Zeke realizes the fight for Kate’s affection may be his biggest challenge yet. 

MY THOUGHTS.....

'She could do this. After all, this was why she'd left Manchester last fall and sailed halfway across the world on the Robert Lowe bride ship. She'd come to find a husband and get married!'

In the conclusion to the Bride Ships series, Jody Hedlund offers another intriguing story that includes a beautiful young woman who can't commit because of scars left by her father's desertion, a man who has lived recklessly and often immorally in his search to change his life of poverty, and hundreds of men desperately seeking a wife. All of these situations play a major part in Almost a Bride and you can rest assured that a lot of drama is about to take place in British Columbia!

Kate Millington is saved from an angry rejected fiance and she realizes that her savior is actually a neighbor that she knew as a child in Manchester, England. Soon, Kate finds herself experiencing intense feelings for Zeke Hart but there is a major hurdle in their relationship: Zeke isn't a Christian and Kate can't commit to a man who doesn't share her beliefs. Can Kate overcome her fear of marriage? Will Zeke discover the joy and peace that comes from a life of faith? Is it possible that their intense romantic chemistry will develop into a lasting love?

I liked that author Jody Hedlund has created some very realistic characters for Almost a Bride. Both Kate and Zeke have faults but she shows their personal growth as the story continues and I also loved Becca and Mr. Peabody, two secondary characters who offer Kate and Zeke support and sage advice. Readers are also given a chance to catch up with Zoe, Abe, and the orphanage featured in the previous book.

The Bride Ships series has been an entertaining series with amazing characters and I often found myself wondering if I would have been brave enough and strong enough to leave my home, travel by ship for months at a time, and agree to marry a man I had never met. If you enjoy historical romance with adventure, mystery, and a message of faith, you will certainly want to read Almost a Bride.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over twenty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award. She lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy teens, and five spoiled cats.

Learn more at Jody's Website     Goodread     Facebook

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