Bookworm Lisa~

A Game of Truth and Lies by Sharayah Maurice

2024-09-19T15:34:00.000-06:00

A Game of Truth and Lies by Sharayah Maurice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love binge worthy books. To dive deep into a story and try to figure out what is happening and what I am expecting, then having a wrench thrown in and blow my theories off course. (sigh)

This whole series is binge worthy. I think I am going to need to go back and read them one after the other to fully appreciate the wonderful world that Sharayah Maurice has created. I seriously love this series.

In "A Game of Truth and Lies" all of the characters are together in the same place. This group of Young Adults have great chemistry together. There is a real spirit of cooperation. Some of the banter between couples, and wanna be couples, is so good. It has done my heart good to have a good chuckle and root for them to succeed.

If you are going to start the series start with the first book, "A Bounty of Secrets and Rebellion". You'll definitely want to binge the three books. Now I just can't wait for book 4. I need to know what happens next.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Read an Excerpt!

********************

Griff sat next to Halyn and behind Alana, occasionally flicking his sister’s ear or tugging a curl just to mess with her between spectating fights. It sometimes amazed him to think that he was picking on the Princess of Latera, soon-to-be Crown Princess of Gaellen. Truthfully, it made picking on her all the more enjoyable. He got to do what no one else would dream of doing given her status. He decided picking on his little sister would only keep her humble and when he looked at it that way, he was really doing her a favor.

Splash!

Griff sucked in a breath as a bucket of ice-cold water doused him from head to toe.

“Serves you right,” Halyn remarked, edging away from him as Alana burst into cackles of laughter. A shiver raced down his spine as the crisp autumn breeze rushed over him, adding to the chill of the cold water drenching him. He pulled at his shirt, trying to keep the wetness off his skin and noticed a bloom of pink spreading across the white fabric.

“Iced beet juice,” Alana explained with a smirk, half-turned on her bench to face him. “Good luck getting that out of your clothes.”

“Very clever,” he noted, impressed with his sister’s deviousness. All of a sudden he lunged forward, arms out wide as he wrapped her in a wet hug. She squealed and squirmed, attempting to escape his embrace but only managing to create more points of connection to spread the pink liquid from his clothes to hers.

“Stop it, you two!” Nakeera barked, waving at them to settle down. “Fynn and Tannin are about to be up!”

Griff released Alana just as she shoved him away and frowned down at the wet splotches of her dress. Fortunately for her, her dress was already pink and the stain of the beet juice was hardly noticeable. She glared up at him as she pulled her cloak closed to ward off the wet chill, even as her lips twitched in amusement. He grinned mischievously at her as another prank came to mind. He tucked it away for later just as Fynn’s voice sounded from the center of the arena, drawing his attention over her head to the two men facing off with wooden staffs in hand. “Are you ready?”

Avery’s face twisted up into a cocky grin. “I think the real question is, are you ready to be bested in front of all your subjects, Prince Fynnegan?”

There was a rise of snickers from the crowd as Fynn volleyed back, “It’s Latera’s image I’m more concerned about. Wouldn’t want to make my betrothed’s kingdom look bad.”

“Not to worry, I won’t let my princess down,” Avery replied, dropping into an exaggerated bow toward Alana.

*******************

Looking to purchasing a copy? Here is a link.

(It's available for Kindle Unlimited)

Amazon

Interested in finding more about Tanithor? Shrayah Maurice has created an excellent overview of her fantasy world at: https://www.sharayahmaurice.com/virtual-tour-of-tanithor/

About the Author: Sharayah Maurice has been a lover of books since she first learned to read and has dreamed of being an author for just as long. She is the author of The Chronicles of Tanithor: Age of the Oracle series. Her stories are filled with adventure, political intrigue and swoony romance that will leave you desperate for more. She lives in north Texas with her husband and five children. To find out more, visit her at www.sharayahmaurice.com or follow her @thesharayahmaurice on Instagram.

An Excellent Reading Choice! - The Balkan Legends: Beneath a Crescent Shadow by A. L. Sowards

2024-07-16T16:07:00.002-06:00

The Balkan Legends, Book 1: Beneath a Crescent Shadow by A.L. Sowards

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Source: Received to review.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Book Description: After an arranged marriage, Konstantin and Suzana must find a way to meet the demands of a conquering Ottoman sultan amid a torrent of setbacks and dangers much closer to their Balkan home.

The Balkans, 1373

A devastating battle claimed the lives of Konstantin’s father, uncle, and most of their Serb army, leaving Konstantin to rule as a vassal of the Ottoman sultan, a role he is wholly unprepared for. Between war, famine, and a persistent band of brigands, this young, new ruler is nearly bankrupt. He will need to find a wealthy bride if he is to have any hope of saving his lands and securing his future.

A betrothal to Suzana, the daughter of a prosperous merchant, is soon arranged, and upon meeting her, Konstantin immediately feels hope that their marriage could someday grow into love. Yet from the moment of Konstantin and Suzana’s betrothal, enemies threaten their lives, outlaws prey on their lands, and the terrors of Suzana’s abusive past haunt their fragile new relationship. As this onslaught of threats closes in, the two face challenges that will test their love, their faith, and their hope of saving their people from the heavy weight of Ottoman oppression.

My thoughts: Well Done!

It's emotionally hard when a good book comes to an end. I always wish for a little more, and it's never enough. Fortunately, this is the first book in a series. Hallelujah!

"Beneath a Crescent Shadow" took me through a full range of emotions. The beginning has Zupan Konstantin innocent in many aspects as he looks to an arranged marriage. He needs to save his people from starvation and pay tribute money to the sultan. He changes as he navigates love and war. It was heartbreaking to follow him on his journey, but worth it when he emerges at the end.

I loved this novel of love, loss, betrayal, and redemption.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

About the Author: I love books, so that makes Goodreads my favorite social media site. As a reader, I enjoy a variety of books. As a writer, I create historical novels with a wholesome mix of action, adventure, and romance. My stories include a Whitney Award winner, several Whitney finalists, and a Gold Medal winner in the Readers' Favorite International Book Awards.

I'm a wife and a mother of three, and I've called Washington State, Utah, and Alaska home. I'm usually reading a couple books at once and working on multiple writing projects too. Other than that, my life is pretty ordinary. I'm grateful for that. I'll let the characters in my books have all the adventures.

Stay in Touch:
Newsletter sign up: https://alsowards.com/newsletter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.l.sowards/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ALSowards/

A Battle of Past & Present by Sharayah Maurice (Book Review and Deleted Scene)

2024-01-30T05:00:00.159-07:00

The Battle of Past and Present by Sharayah Maurice

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Genre: YA Fantasy Romance

Source: Received to Review

Release Date: February 2, 2024

Series: The Chronicles of Tanithor: Age of the Oracle Book 2

Book Description: Journey back to Tanithor in A Battle of Past and Present, the action-packed sequel to A Bounty of Secrets and Rebellion where the threats are greater, the stakes are higher, and the future of Tanithor remains unknown.

It's been one week since Prince Fynnegan Corden Greenway arrived in Latera to claim his promised bride. Upon discovering the kingdom to whom he is to ally through marriage is mistrusting of his intentions toward their princess, the Gaellen prince has been hard at work restoring their faith in him. However, the one person with whom he wishes to find favor is the only one who seems resistant to his efforts. His betrothed.

Fynn may be entitled to Alana's hand in marriage, but her heart is something he must earn on his own merit if he wants to have the future of which he has always dreamed.

Griff has been left reeling. After a shocking revelation in which he discovers an ability he never knew he had, he and Halyn seek to unravel the truth of his past while they struggle to survive in yet another foreign kingdom. Together they will face seemingly impossible odds while they, once again, attempt to return to Hoken where the fate of the kingdom's future hangs in the balance.

My thoughts: Why do I like to read books when they first come out? Needless to say, I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series! 😁

Ok, this book takes place right after A Bounty of Secrets and Rebellion. It was wonderful to get back into the world Sharayah Maurice created. It was easy to get back in touch with the characters and resume their journey to bring peace to the Kingdoms.

One of my favorite things is that they all come together in this book! Yay! I have been waiting for this. This forces secrets out in the open and the young adults realize a lot is riding on their decisions for their future.

Before that happens, they have battles to face as they travel Gaellen.. There are factions against the marriage of Fynn and Alana. Griff gradually realizes that his past is not what he thought it was, and characters from a new Kingdom join the story.

I honestly love this story. It captured my attention and kept me flipping the pages on my Kindle. If you love fantasy and an eclectic group of characters, you definitely want to check this series out. If you haven't started the series, what are you waiting for?

Online purchase link:

Amazon

Read a deleted scene!

********************

*author’s note: I never intended for this scene to be a part of the book but when it came time to come up with some extra material for this book tour, I thought it would be the perfect scene to bring to life as part of Griff’s history. This scene is referenced in A Battle of Past and Present so when you read the book, you will have a picture of this moment.

To give you some context, and not to give away anything from book 2, this scene takes place in Viho village in Hoken when Griff was 15 years old and Alo was 14. Griff and Halyn were friends at this time but she is back in Elu village. I imagine that if she had been present, Griff would have capitalized on this opportunity… ;)

I hope you enjoy!

“You’re not going to get a girl just by staring at them,” Griff teased his baby brother. “You’re more likely to scare them away with that approach.” He sat down on the overturned log next to Alo before the massive bonfire where a dozen or more Hokens were dancing and stomping around the flames in celebration of the Makawi’s union earlier that day.

“What do you know about it?” Alo retorted with a huff. “You’ve never had a girl.”

Griff bristled. “Who says I haven’t?”

“I’ve never seen you with one.”

“That doesn’t mean I’ve never had a girl,” Griff countered, watching the dancers hop and clap to the rhythm of the drums beating in the background.

Alo snorted in disbelief. “Sure. I bet you’ve never even kissed a girl.”

“I’ve kissed plenty of girls!” He hadn’t.

“Oh yeah? Name one.”

“That’s none of your business.”

Alo scoffed again. “You’ve never kissed a girl, because you’ve never had a girl.”

“I can get a girl anytime I want,” Griff shot back petulantly. “And kiss them too.”

“Prove it,” Alo snapped, shoving his shoulder.

Griff twisted and pushed him back with more force. “I don’t have to prove myself to you. You’re just upset because you’ve never had a girl and don’t know how to get one.”

“Fine! Then I dare you!” Alo hissed, shoving him off the log with both hands.

Griff shot up to his feet, clenching his fists at his sides as he turned around to face his brother.

Alo smiled devilishly. “I dare you to find a girl here and kiss her.”

Griff scowled at him. “Fine.”

“Fine.”

“Fine!”

Alo crossed his arms and quirked a brow. “What are you waiting for?”
Griff lurched forward and pushed Alo as hard as he could, sending him toppling backward to fall in a heap behind the log before he turned on his heel and marched toward the fire.

He released a heavy breath as he melded into the dancers around the flames, catching the beat and joining in on the stomps and claps. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Alo scramble back up to the log, perching himself upright to watch his dare unfold.

Griff made his way around the fire, dancing and laughing as the rhythm kicked up. He twisted and turned and clapped and stomped and then, mustering up his nerve, he reached for a girl he’d noticed earlier that day and pulled her into a partner’s dance. Yazzie was her name, he thought. She had been part of the bride’s entourage through the village before the wedding ceremony began and had cast small glances his way throughout the day. Griff locked eyes with Alo and smirked triumphantly, pulling Yazzie around the bonfire.

Alo continued to glare.

When the beat slowed and Griff’s confidence was boosted after Yazzie’s interest was made clear by her flirty smiles and playful attention during their dance, he discreetly shot Alo a pointed look before he tugged her away from the bonfire and behind a large tree for a bit of privacy.

His heart was thundering against his ribs as he pulled her up next to him, the both of them giggling with nerves and excitement due to the attention of the other. Before he could give it another thought, he quickly leaned down, keeping his eyes open so that he could be sure his aim was right, and pressed his lips to hers. Yazzie puckered her lips in a quick return peck before she leaned back, face flushed with embarrassment. Griff gave her a goofy grin as she covered her mouth and giggled into her hand before she darted off back to the party.

Buoyant and slightly dazed, Griff loped out from the behind the tree and headed for Alo with confident swagger, ready to crow his victory to his younger brother.

********************

About the author: Sharayah Maurice has been a lover of books since she first learned to read and has dreamed of being an author for just as long. She is the author of The Chronicles of Tanithor: Age of the Oracle series. Her stories are filled with adventure, political intrigue and swoony romance that will leave you desperate for more. She lives in north Texas with her husband and five children.

Social links

Website: www.sharayahmaurice.com

Instagram: @thesharayahmaurice

Amazon: www.amazon.com/author/sharayahmaurice

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/40418491.Sharayah_Maurice

Join Sharayah’s mailing list: https://sharayahmaurice.ck.page/a60929dee9

Codes of Courage by A.L. Sowards - Perfect for all Historical Fiction Readers

2023-12-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

Codes of Courage by A.L. Sowards

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Source: I received a review copy and I purchased my own.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Book Description: In a battle of torpedoes, depth charges, and secret codes, nothing is as vulnerable as the human heart.

1940: Austrian refugee Karl Lang has lost everything―his country, his home, and his family. All that is left to him is a burning ambition to see the Nazis defeated. Desperate for work and a way to help the war effort, he finds the one place that will take a refugee like him: a supply steamer traversing a deadly path past enemy U-boats.

Since their first meeting, Millie Stevens has felt an undeniable connection to Karl. As the war rages, she shares his determination to oppose the Nazis and finds work at the British codebreaking center at Bletchley Park. There she uses all her intellect and determination to break German codes and read U-boat transmissions―or risk losing the man she loves.

Rolf Denhart will do anything to defend the Fatherland, including long patrols in a cramped U-boat. But rumors from Germany leave him uneasy, forcing a choice between loyalty to his homeland, the safety of his family, and his peace of conscience.

In the midst of war, three lives are woven together to create an epic tapestry of love and loss, joy and pain, sacrifice and courage.

My thoughts: I'm writing this with tears in my eyes. I don't usually get emotional while reading a book. Codes of Courage is well written and I felt as if I were there with Karl and Millie. In my mind, I was with Millie when she eagerly read Karls's letters and telegrams. I was with him when his ship was torpedoed and he was on a lifeboat.

I now have a better understanding of what life was like during WWII.

I loved the book. I love reading about the period. I felt that the characters were real people and I was peeping in on their love story. I wish that it would have ended a little differently (a lot differently), but feel that it shows resilience and the domino effect and how a good person and good deeds can make a big impact.

I highly recommend this book and all of the Heirs to Falcon Point books.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

About the Author: I love books, so that makes Goodreads my favorite social media site. As a reader, I enjoy a variety of books. As a writer, I create historical novels with a wholesome mix of action, adventure, and romance. My stories include a Whitney Award winner, several Whitney finalists, and a Gold Medal winner in the Readers' Favorite International Book Awards.

I'm a wife and a mother of three, and I've called Washington State, Utah, and Alaska home. I'm usually reading a couple books at once and working on multiple writing projects too. Other than that, my life is pretty ordinary. I'm grateful for that. I'll let the characters in my books have all the adventures.

Stay in Touch:
Newsletter sign up: https://alsowards.com/newsletter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.l.sowards/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ALSowards/

Book Review: Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord by Celeste Connally

2023-11-27T15:10:00.000-07:00

Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord by Celeste Connally
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars

Source: Received to Review

Genre: Regency Mystery

Book Description: Bridgerton meets Agatha Christie in Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord, a dazzling first entry in a terrific new Regency-era mystery series with a feminist spin.

When Lady Petra Forsyth’s fiancé and soulmate dies just weeks ahead of their wedding, she makes the shocking proclamation—in front of London’s loosest lips—that she will never remarry. A woman of independent means, Petra sees no reason to cede her wealth and freedom to any man now that the love of her life has passed, nor does she intend to become confined to her country home. Instead, she uses her title to gain access to elite spaces and enjoy the best of society without expectations.

But when ballroom gossip suggests that a longtime friend has died of “melancholia” while in the care of a questionable physician, Petra vows to use her status to dig deeper—uncovering a private asylum where men pay to have their wives and daughters locked away, or worse. Just as Lady Petra has reason to believe her friend is not dead, but a prisoner, her own headstrong actions and thirst for independence are used to put her own freedom in jeopardy.

My thoughts: Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord is an interesting book. There are several twists and turns that can keep the reader engaged and eager to find out how they all fit together.

Petra is an intriguing young woman. She grew up in a home where she was given leeway and didn't act like a lady should in some circumstances. I would say that she is a free spirit, something that was frowned upon during the Regency Era. She is also intelligent and curious. When the women of the ton start disappearing, including her best friend who died unexpectedly, she is determined to find answers.

The plot is intriguing. While the book didn't conform to the time period. I read the story ignoring the time period errors, this helped me to enjoy the book and appreciate the plot and characters.

The book contains sexual innuendo, crass views of women, and closed-door intimacy.

Source: I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

About the Author: CELESTE CONNALLY is an Agatha Award nominee, and a former freelance writer and editor. A lifelong devotee of historical novels and adaptations fueled by her passion for history—plus weekly doses of PBS Masterpiece—Celeste loves reading and writing about women from the past who didn’t always do as they were told.

An Unsuitable Heiress by Jane Dunn

2023-09-29T07:02:00.002-06:00

Title: An Unsuitable Heiress
Author: Jane Dunn
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance
Publisher: ‎ Boldwood Books (May 22, 2023)
Length: (350) pages
Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & Audiobook

ISBN: ‎978-1804835364

Book Description: Following the death of her mother, Corinna Ormesby has lived a quiet life in the countryside with her cantankerous Cousin Agnes. Her father's identity has been a tantalising mystery, but now at nineteen Corinna knows that finding him may be her only way to avoid marriage to the odious Mr Beech.

Deciding to head to London, Corinna dons a male disguise. Travelling alone as a young woman risks scandal and danger, but when, masquerading as a youth, she is befriended by three dashing blades, handsome and capable Alick Wolfe, dandy Ferdinand Shilton and the incorrigible Lord Purfoy, Corinna now has access to the male-only world of Regency England.

And when she meets Alick's turbulent brother Darius, a betrayal of trust leads to deadly combat which only one of the brothers may survive. From gambling in gentleman’s clubs to meeting the courtesans of Covent Garden, Corinna’s country naivety soon falls away.

But when she finds her father at last, learns the truth about her parentage and discovers her fortunes transformed, she must quickly decide how to reveal her true identity, while hoping that one young man in particular can see her for the beauty and Lady she really is.

Sunday Times-bestselling author Jane Dunn brings the Regency period irresistibly to life in a page-turning novel packed with romance, scandal, friendship and colour. Perfect for fans of Jane Austen. Janice Hadlow, Gill Hornby, and anyone with a Bridgerton-shaped hole in their lives.

My thoughts: I was intrigued when I read the book description. I like Regency stories where the heroine takes drastic steps to change her future. This book fits in that category 100%.

Corinna meets her new friends when she is about to be beaten and Alick steps in and saves her, I mean him. They take the weak, but amiable, young man under their wings and Corinna is introduced into the world of men of leisure. For a naive young lady, it is eye-opening. Particularly when they take her to a brothel. Oh, my stars! Don't worry, there is nothing graphic happening to her. A nice game of cards is in order.

The book explores Corinna's journey. The author pays attention to detail and takes the reader on a process. Corinna's desire to find her father to his death. She finds her place in the world with the encouragement of good friends.

Romance is not at the forefront of the story. It happens toward the end, but there are sparks between the two from the time they find out she is really a girl.

All in all, I would say that the book is entertaining. I am glad that I picked it up and started reading. It is a little different than your typical Regency romance. You might find yourself falling a little in love with Alick too.

Source: Recieved to Review

Rating: 4 of 5 stars.

PURCHASE LINKS

About the Author:

Jane Dunn is an historian and biographer and the author of seven acclaimed biographies, including Daphne du Maurier and her Sisters, and the Sunday Times and NYT bestseller, Elizabeth & Mary: Cousins, Rivals, Queens. She comes to Boldwood with her first fiction outing – a trilogy of novels set in the Regency period, the first of which, The Marriage Season, is to be published in January 2023. She lives in Berkshire with her husband, the linguist Nicholas Ostler.

INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X (formerly known as Twitter) | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

PRAISE FOR AN UNSUITABLE HEIRESS

5 STARS “…a compelling and enthralling story of a determined young woman’s journey to find her father and her own place in the world.”— Jo Shaw, BookMadJo.com
5 STARS “…you should allow yourself to be carried away by it as if by a tall dark stranger in a carriage and four. I enjoyed it even more than The Marriage Season, and that's quite a lot.”— Paul Feldwick, Goodreads
5 STARS “…a fun-filled romp through Regency England, with a smattering of romance, a sense of adventure and a wonderful heroine at its core. What's not to like?!”— Jo, Jaffa Reads Too

What Would Jane Austen Do? by Linda Corbett

2023-09-05T06:30:00.024-06:00

What Would Jane Austen Do? by Linda Corbett
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Source: Received to Review

Book Description: It's a truth often acknowledged that when a journalist and Jane Austen fan girl ends up living next door to a cynical but handsome crime writer, romantic sparks will fly! When Maddy Shaw is told her Dear Jane column has been cancelled she has no choice but to look outside of London’s rental market. That is until she’s left an idyllic country home by the black sheep of the family, long-not-so-lost Cousin Nigel. But of course there’s a stipulation… and not only is Maddy made chair of the committee for the annual village literary festival, she also has to put up with bestselling crime author –and romance sceptic – Cameron Massey as her new neighbour. When Maddy challenges Cameron to write romantic fiction, which he claims is so easy to do, sparks fly both on and off the page…

My thoughts: Maddie enjoyed her time writing a "Dear Jane" advice column. She enjoyed it until she got fired. (Some people are just a little too sensitive.)

She is offered the chance of a lifetime. She lives in her father's cousin's home for one year and inherits the mansion. What would a girl who was just fired from her job do? Take the deal. Unfortunately, the home comes with a neighbor who Jane has crossed paths with before, Cameron Massey, the crime author. Their ideas of worthwhile writing do not match. Maddie challenges him to write a romance, but it is too easy so he says. Hmmm.. time will tell who is right.

I enjoyed this book. It falls into the trope of "enemies to lovers". From the moment they meet, you can see the potential for sparks. The story is fast-paced and has fantastic characters. I love the small-town vibe of the book. The neighbors are friends and the spirit of cooperation makes this a "feel-good" book. I enjoyed the plot and the characters.

I have not read a Linda Corbett before, but I am very interested in picking one up in the future. The book contains fade-to-black intimacy and one instance of the "f" word.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | HARPERCOLLINS

BOOKBUB

PRAISE FOR WHAT WOULD JANE AUSTEN DO?

“Witty, sharp and beautifully observed – I feel sure Jane would approve.”— Julie Caplin, author of The French Chateau

“Sparkling romance, secrets from the past…Witty and romantic, I couldn’t stop myself from turning the pages.”— Alison Sherlock, bestselling author of The Village of Lost and Found

“…sheer fun from beginning to end, beautifully written, and with a real touch of originality.”— Anne Williams, Being Anne

“What a lovely book! It also fills my need to see British colloquialisms on occasion. Yes! I highly recommend this book!”— Michelle, Tales Untangled

About the Author: Linda Corbett lives in Surrey with her husband Andrew and three permanently hungry guinea pigs. As well as being an author, Linda is treasurer and fundraiser for Shine Surrey – a volunteer-led charity that supports individuals and families living with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. For many years she also wrote a regular column for Link, a disability magazine, illustrating the humorous aspects of life with a complex disability and she is a passionate advocate of disability representation in fiction. Love You From A-Z is her first published novel.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | GOODREADS

A Bounty of Secrets and Rebellion by Sharayah Maurice

2023-08-31T14:40:00.002-06:00

A Bounty of Secrets and Rebellion by Sharayah Maurice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Source: Received to Review

Genre: Fantasy

Book Description: An historical alliance between two gifted races is threatened when Princess Alana Bell Sundry is attacked and a bounty is placed on her head. With powerful enemies on two borders, the kingdom of Latera is relying on her arranged marriage to the Gaellen Prince to strengthen their position in Tanithor.

Enlisting the help of a mysterious bodyguard to keep her alive until her prince arrives to claim her, Alana soon learns there’s more to the undercover guard than meets the eye. As she spends time with her new bodyguard, she realizes that the attacks on her life aren’t the only threats to the alliance. Her heart may prove just as effective at dismantling a union that has been years in the making.

Meanwhile, across the Great River, Griff Shoshone is unaware of the political events happening around him. The girl he’s loved for years has recently been promised to his little brother, the future Chief of Hoken, and Griff must find a way to reconcile his heart to the Oracle’s prophetic declaration. However, after a fateful decision with deadly consequences leaves him and his brother’s betrothed captured in enemy territory, Griff must now come to terms with his new fated destiny.

A Bounty of Secrets and Rebellion is the first in the Chronicles of Tanithor YA fantasy romance series told from multiple POVs. If you like clean romance, characters with elemental powers, and action packed chapters with cliff hanger endings, then you’ll love the enchanting world of Tanithor.

My thoughts: I have to admit that I am a sucker for fantasy books. I was excited to start A Bounty of Secrets and Rebellion. I had no idea what was in store for me though.

Sharayah Maurice is a new author and she did a great job in her debut novel. The plot moved along quickly, and I enjoyed the characters and how the different stories fit together. There is a ton of political intrigue and surprises throughout the book. I really am excited to read the next book.

I also loved how some of the characters had elemental gifts. It's interesting to note that the"gifts" from the "All Gods" run in noble families. It's fascinating how the "gifts" can be used for good or bad.

If you love a good epic fantasy, check this book out.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Link:

Amazon

You can borrow the book on Kindle Unlimited!

About the Author: Sharayah Maurice has been a lover of books since she first learned to read and has dreamed of being an author for just as long. She is the author of The Chronicles of Tanithor: Age of the Oracle series. Her stories are filled with adventure, political intrigue and swoony romance that will leave you desperate for more. She lives in north Texas with her husband and five children.

Social links

Website: www.sharayahmaurice.com

Instagram: @thesharayahmaurice

Amazon: www.amazon.com/author/sharayahmaurice

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/40418491.Sharayah_Maurice

Join Sharayah’s mailing list: https://sharayahmaurice.ck.page/a60929dee9

Crown & Serpent: A Fate of Eyrinthia Novella by Heather Frost ~ Excerpt and Giveaway!

2023-08-24T05:30:00.080-06:00

Crown and Serpent: A Fate of Eyrinthia Novella by Heather Frost
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Source: Received to Review

Genre: Fantasy

Book Description: All she wanted . . .

Seventeen-year-old Iris Winn loves her quiet life with her father, studying the poisons that fascinate them both. But after his sudden death, Iris is now the ward of her estranged aunt and uncle. In order to claim her inheritance, she must live in the capital city of Lenzen for one year. While there, she must attend parties, balls, and participate in every other vapid thing the elite of Ryden value. Iris doesn’t care about learning their rules or joining their ranks–her only goal is to endure the next year. Then she meets Prince Henri Kaelin.

Everything they demanded . . .

Every young woman in Lenzen wants Henri–except for Iris. Unfortunately, the prince only has eyes for her. The king has decreed that Henri must choose a bride before his birthday, and Iris is determined it won’t be her. Dodging a prince’s focused attention while placating her relatives and the rest of Ryden’s high society is exhausting–and more dangerous than Iris could have ever imagined. She is about to learn that not all games are innocent, and some smiles are more lethal than poison. Luckily, Iris is a quick study, and this is a game she is determined to win.

She would take it all.

*Crown & Serpent is a Fate of Eyrinthia prequel novella that’s actually the length of a novel. This villain origin story was released after Royal Rebel, but it can be read at any point in the series.*

My thoughts: Iris and Henri, the couple that is easy to hate. In the "Fate of Eyrinthia" series I have wondered how two despicable people get together and raise their sons.

All my questions were answered and more. The problem was that I didn't hate them in the novella. I came to understand who they were and why they made the decisions they did. I actually sympathized with Iris in most of the novella. I actually felt sorry for her. It was actually easy to see her path to the amazingly evil person she would become. But, she didn't start out that way. She started as a young woman who loved her father and spent time with him studying poisons.

Henri was just a prince who hated his father and wanted the throne. Together, they bounced ideas around that would define their rule during the series.

If you love the series, you want, no need, to read this one. It explains so much!

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. (I've also pre-ordered a copy!)

Pre-order a copy for your Kindle.

Amazon

Read an Excerpt!

********************

Iris was tracking the movements of the soldiers who surrounded the king. After his speech, he’d ducked his head and spoken to his son in low, quick tones. Iris had a hard time looking away from Prince Henri. She was still reeling with the knowledge that he was the boy from the stable.

Henri’s expression was inscrutable as his father spoke to him, and Iris noted that he said little to the king. Was it a lecture, then? Iris had become quite familiar with them since meeting her relatives.

Finally, the king finished. He stepped back, and his guards were quick to surround him as he moved off the stage, clearly headed for the nearest vendor’s cart.

Henri stood there a moment, his guards at his back. Iris saw the way his fists clenched at his sides, but then his tension slowly released. He faced the crowd, his eyes sweeping the square—until he found her.

Iris’s skin tingled in a peculiar way as their gazes locked.

Slowly, his lips curved. It was a secretive smile, speaking to what they’d shared earlier. Her knees trembled slightly, though she had no idea why.

“Fates,” Anora breathed. “He’s looking right at you, Iris.”

Her aunt’s words snapped her back to reality. She looked away from Prince Henri, settling her attention on her relatives. Even Kell was gawking at her.

“Why is he looking at you?” Lillin asked, her eyes wide.

“I don’t know,” Iris said. And she honestly didn’t. She didn’t know why he looked so fascinated as he stared at her. She certainly didn’t understand why he was sharing a smile with her, or why he hadn’t told her the truth in the stable.

“Have you met before?” Anora asked, sounding a little strangled.

Before Iris could reply, her aunt’s eyes widened on a spot beyond her. “Fates, he’s coming this way.”

Iris’s belly knotted. She twisted to see that her aunt was right—Henri was already off the stage and moving right for them.

“Stay calm,” Anora breathed to them all. “Kell, Lillin—not a word.”

Henri’s smile was full by the time he stopped in front of them, two guards flanking him. Everyone in the vicinity bowed, and Iris, Anora, and Lillin dipped into practiced curtsies.

Iris could feel many eyes on them, though Henri’s focus on her was especially tangible and unrelenting. “Lady Iris,” he greeted smoothly. “It’s lovely to see you again.”

She glanced up at him as she rose from her curtsy. “Indeed,” she said. It was all she could think to say. Her mind was utterly stalled.

The corner of his mouth twitched higher. “You seem a little less verbose than when we last spoke.”

The skin around Iris’s eyes tightened. “I probably said quite enough already, don’t you think?”

Anora paled. Lillin looked positively scandalized. Kell stiffened, and Sevlin shifted to stand just a little closer to Iris.

“Your Highness,” her uncle said. “I didn’t realize you knew my niece.”

Henri regarded Sevlin, and in the absence of his stare, Iris’s breathing evened out somewhat. “Our acquaintance is quite new, Lord Winn. We only met today.” Henri’s attention shifted back to Iris, and his smile widened. “To answer your question, Iris, no—I don’t think you said enough. I’m fascinated to learn more of your views on the world, though I’m afraid I have several obligations today that will keep me quite busy. Will you be at Lord Thatcher’s ball?”

Lillin’s mouth dropped open.

Anora’s eyes couldn’t possibly get any wider.

Iris knew she couldn’t count on them for help. She cleared her throat and focused back on the prince. “Yes, I will be in attendance.”

Henri grinned. “Excellent. I hope you’ll save your first dance for me.” He tipped his head, and without another word he strode away.

The Winn family watched him go, none of them saying a word.

It was Kell who finally broke the silence. “What by all the blasted fates was that?”

Though they all looked at her, Iris had no answers.

********************

About the Author: Heather Frost is a #1 Amazon bestselling author who writes magical stories with breath-stealing romance. She is the author of the Seers trilogy, the Fate of Eyrinthia series, and Esperance. Her books have been Whitney Award and Swoony Award Finalists. She has a BS in Creative Writing and a minor in Folklore, which means she got to read fairy tales and call it homework. When she’s not writing, Heather likes to read, travel, and re-watch Lord of the Rings. She lives in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains in northern Utah. To learn more about Heather and her books, visit her website: www.HeatherFrost.com.

Heather’s Social Media Links

Website * Instagram: Heather.Frost.Author * Facebook: @AuthorHeatherFrost * Goodreads * Book Bub * Join Heather’s Mailing List

Time for the Giveaway!

To celebrate Crown & Serpent coming out, Heather is giving away a signed paperback of Royal Decoy + collectible bookmarks and postcard!

Get all the details and enter here: https://www.instagram.com/heather.frost.author/

Follow all of the stops on the tour!

https://www.heatherfrost.com/post/crown-serpent-media-tour-schedule

A Wyoming Summer: Timeless Western Collection

2023-06-27T14:24:00.000-06:00

A Wyoming Summer: Timeless Western Collection by Carla Kelly, Christine Sterling,

and Heather B Moore

Genre: Historical Western Romance

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Source: Received to Review

Book Description:

A Wyoming Summer is the fourth book in the Timeless Western Collection, a bestselling anthology series from Mirror Press. The book features three novellas from acclaimed historical romance authors whose stories ask if true love can survive the changing seasons?

“Ellen Found,” by Carla Kelly

Set in location of Old Faithful Inn, 1903-4. Working in a discouraging café, Ellen escapes an awful situation in rough and tumble Butte, Montana, and goes to work as second in command to a wary cook in the shell that will become Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone Park. She meets Charles Penrose, head carpenter on the massive project of Old Faithful Inn, which is being finished in a harsh Wyoming winter. Will it really open June 1, 1904? Can Ellen start to trust the other workers? What will she learn about the other employees? And Charles. He's a widower with a young daughter there, too. Like Ellen, he wants more.

“The Widow of Daybreak,” by Christine Sterling

Doris Whistler is learning how to survive in a town taken over by outlaws. When the leader of an infamous gang murders her husband, her choices are to tuck tail and run, or stand her ground and make Daybreak as promising as its name. It proves to be a difficult task with the good citizens in fear of the corrupt mayor and godlessness that abounds. What she doesn't expect is the support of a traveling lawman who believes in her and the tiny town she loves so much.

“May I Kiss the Bride,” by Heather B. Moore

Viola Delany is not happy about being sent to the middle-of-nowhere, small town Wyoming. Yes, it will be good to let the gossips find something else to talk about other than her failed engagement. And yes, it will be nice to spend the summer with her Aunt Beth. But as Viola sits on the train heading for Wyoming, wondering how she'll ever occupy her time in such a small town, none other than a real-life cowboy sits across the way. She can't help but take peeks at him, noting that the condition of his unpolished black boots and scuffed rawhide jacket seem to be authentic . . . All right, he might be tall, dark-haired, and handsome if a woman doesn't mind green eyes and a dangerous-looking scar, but this man certainly has nothing to do with her. Besides she'll never see him again. What are the chances he's traveling to the same middle-of-nowhere small town?

My thoughts: You can always go right with a book from the Timeless Collections. It doesn't matter the time period or where it is set. I know that I am about to read something good.

I love the variety of the three stories. You start off with the construction of the Old Faithful Inn. Along the way, we are introduced to an ornery cat, a couple of bears, military men, a disgruntled cook, a handsome carpenter, an adorable little girl, and a young woman looking to find a place that felt like home. It was such a cute story. I admired Carla Kelly's characters, writing, and attention to historical detail.

The next two stories take us into the "Old West". Christine Sterling is a "new-to-me" author and I looked forward to reading her story. I'm glad that I did. A young woman is left to care for her two young daughters after the outlaw in town kills her husband. A lawman is tasked by her brother to check on her and assess the situation. One of the things I love about Westerns is when the lawman swoops in and saves the day.

Heather B Moore has long been a favorite author of mine. I know when I pick up something she has written, it's gonna be good. A long train ride and chemistry, you know I want to read it. :)

This is a fantastic collection. You can binge-read a story or two in a day, or savor them over time.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

AMAZON | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

About the Authors:

Carla Kelly started writing Regencies because of her interest in the Napoleonic Wars. She

likes writing about warfare at sea and ordinary people of the British Isles, rather than lords

and ladies. In her spare time, she likes to read British crime fiction and history, particularly the

U.S. Indian Wars. She is a former park ranger, and double Rita Award and Spur Award

winner. She currently lives in Utah, has five interesting children and four grands. Carla’s

favorite authors include Robert Crais and Richard Woodman.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | GOODREADS

Christine Sterling is a USA Today best-selling author who writes small-town inspirational romances with a touch of humor. Most of her stories take place in the plains of Nebraska or Colorado, but she will write wherever there are cowboys needing to find love. Her favorite stories involve tight-knit families, and you will often find that her characters cross over in many of her stories.

She lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, four dogs, and one spoiled cat, aka The Floof. She can often be found in her garden with a notebook and a cup of tea.

BOOKBUB | BOOKFUNNEL | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

Heather B. Moore is a USA Today best-selling and award-winning author of more than seventy publications, including The Paper Daughters of Chinatown. She has lived on both the East and West Coasts of the United States, as well as Hawaii, and attended school abroad at the Cairo American Collage in Egypt and the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel. She loves to learn about history and is passionate about historical research.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

ABOUT THE SERIES

Since 2015, Mirror Press has been presenting the Timeless Romance Collection, a curated anthology of novellas and short stories featuring bestselling authors from the contemporary and historical romance genres. The collection has hit the USA TODAY bestselling list and charted at #1 at Amazon.com. Learn more about the series and other anthologies published by Mirror Press at their website.

What Dreams May Come by Dana LeCheminant

2023-05-31T13:52:00.000-06:00

What Dreams May Come by Dana LeCheminant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Source: Received to Review

Genre: Historical Romance

Book Description: In a bid to escape the incessant attentions of a man she does not love, governess Lucy Hayes embarks on a journey to begin a new post. But when she’s stranded in a storm, her plans go shockingly awry. Desperate times call for desperate against her better judgment, she agrees to a foolhardy scheme presented by a handsome stranger, known to her as only William. But when her mysterious benefactor falls ill, she finds herself unwittingly drawn into his family home in a case of mistaken they believe she is William’s betrothed. Though she realizes she should admit the truth, the family’s warmth and welcome make it all too easy to play along, just for a while. Until she meets Baron Lord Simon Calloway, William’s older brother. Simon is suspicious of his lovely future sister-in-law, a woman who seems completely unsuited to his self-important brother. As they wait for William to awake, Simon and Lucy are drawn ever closer together. But danger draws closer too, in the form of her unwanted suitor. Lucy knows that when Simon discovers the truth, he will despise her. Now she must find a way to keep herself safe . . . and avoid falling hopelessly in love with a man she can never have.

My thoughts: Just what I needed.

There are times when I feel overwhelmed and struggle to perform my usual tasks. Reading "What Dreams May Come" reminded me of the joy that comes from reading.

Lucy and Simon started off on the wrong foot. They met while she was living surrounded by falsehood. Simon's family believed that she was the fiancee of Simon's brother. Circumstances forced her to let his family believe this untruth, she needed to hide from a man intent on marrying her. A man who scared her.

This book may remind you of the movie 'While You Were Sleeping ". It has a few of the same ideas, but I love this book more.

I loved the characters. I loved the time period and I loved the banter. This is a sweet story. One that took me past my troubles and brought hours of enjoyment.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

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.

Visit her WEBPAGE!

No Matter What by K.M. Frost

2023-05-12T14:43:00.000-06:00

I'm excited to share an except with you from No Matter What by K.M. Frost. She is a new to me author and I will be watching for her books. This one and any she may write in the future.

Book Description: Mason’s life is far from perfect, but it turns out it can get worse. When his mom ends up in prison, he’s shipped off to the middle of nowhere. Apparently he’s got grandparents—parents of the father he knows nothing about. Mason’s not interested in bonding with these newfound grandparents. He just wants to survive until his eighteenth birthday so he can escape this backwater town and finally be free.

Emily is struggling to keep what’s left of her family from falling apart after a horrible accident stole her mom. She has enough on her plate with mothering her younger siblings and protecting a secret that could destroy everything, when she runs into Mason—literally. Her life doesn’t need more complications, and this distractingly attractive, clearly damaged boy promises nothing but trouble. Still, she can’t help but be drawn to him.

Mason and Emily are opposites in nearly every way, but neither can deny the attraction between them. Mason knows he isn’t good enough for her, and Emily knows she should stay away, but that doesn’t stop the pull they feel toward each other. Their tentative relationship is threatened when Mason is put in the crosshairs of the local gang and the town sheriff. Mason and Emily will have to decide what they really want—and if they’re willing to fight for it.

********************

EMILY (POV)

Mason stood on the sidewalk in front of the library, scowling at his phone.

Without letting myself overthink it, I closed my car door and crossed to where he stood.

“Hey, are you okay?”

He looked up, surprise sparking in his deep blue eyes, confirming my deduction that he

could hear just fine, even with those earbuds in place. “Yeah.” He frowned back at his

phone, then slipped it into his pocket. “My grandpa can’t get away from the farm, so I guess

I’m chilling here for a while.”

“Do you need a ride?”

He blinked. “Uh, I’m good. He said he’ll be here as soon as he can.”

I tilted my head and smiled a little. “Don’t take this the wrong way, but you haven’t spent

much time on a farm, have you?”

“No.” His dark eyebrows tugged together. “Why?”

“Let’s just say there are no quick jobs on a farm. Everything takes a long time—if you do it

right, that is. And if I know anything, it’s that George Peterson doesn’t cut corners.”

He crossed his arms over his chest. A streak of white paint had dried on his forearm and

momentarily distracted me. “What’s your point?”

“My point is you could be stuck here for hours.” I shrugged. “Or you could let me drive you

home.”

I watched him process that and consider my offer. His lips pressed together, threatening to

reopen the angry cut on the lower one. My eyes skipped from his split lip to his black eye. They

hadn’t slowed him down today—in fact, he hadn’t seemed to notice the bruises at all. I’d wanted

to ask him about the fight he’d been in, but there were enough rumors swirling around town I

figured he was pretty sick of our curiosity.

“You’ll be safer in my car,” I said, to break the silence and keep my unsolicited questions inside.

He raised a single dark eyebrow in question.

I grinned. “I can’t run you over if you’re in my car.”

A short chuckle escaped his lips, both a surprise and a victory. “I’m sure you could find a way.”

I let out a little laugh, too, then swung my keys in the air. “Are you coming?”

He heaved a long-suffering sigh, but amusement still lit his eyes. “You won’t drop this, will

you?”

“Nope. I can be very stubborn.”

“That I believe.” He dug his phone out of his pocket and typed a quick message, presumably to

his grandpa. Then he gestured for me to lead the way. I did so with a smug grin.

We got into my car, and I immediately rolled the windows down. “The AC’s on the fritz,” I

explained a bit sheepishly. Honestly, I was glad for an excuse to have the windows open. For

some reason, the car felt too small with him sitting next to me.

He shrugged and set his elbow on the window’s frame, his fingers resting against the top of the

opening. “It’s fine.” Sunlight caught on the band of braided dark leather around his wrist, and I

had to force myself to look away and not stare like a creeper.

I headed south on Main Street and automatically turned up the volume on the radio. I froze with

my fingers on the knob. “Are you okay with country?” It was a stupid question, since he still

had his earbuds in. But it did make me wonder . . . “Are you actually listening to music, or do

you just wear those things so people won’t talk to you?”

He seemed startled by the question. “Yes, I’m listening to music.” His voice was stiff, and I

mentally kicked myself for making things awkward. Then the corner of his mouth lifted.

“People not talking to me is just a bonus.”

Was that a hint? Did he want me to stop talking to him?

His deep blue eyes met mine, and I realized I’d been staring. I jerked my attention back to the

road, which was thankfully clear.

“Country’s fine,” he said, though I’m pretty sure he rolled his eyes. “It’s kind of the soundtrack

for this place, isn’t it?”

I took a chance and teased, “It’s the law, yes. All farmers must listen to country music.” I almost

made it through without cracking a smile.

He shook his head, though that hint of a smile still hovered at the edge of his lips. “You can

listen to whatever.”

“Really? Whatever?” Taking up the challenge, I flipped to 106.3 and welcomed Elvis through

my speakers.

This time, he definitely rolled his eyes. “Seriously?”

“You don’t like Elvis?” I asked innocently, upping the volume just a little.

“Does anyone actually like Elvis?”

“He’s the king of rock and roll. That has to count for something.” I winked, and he looked like

he was barely resisting another eye roll. “All right, what kind of music do you like?”

“Not Elvis.”

“Obviously.” I took pity on him and turned down the radio a bit, but not all the way—I wasn’t

feeling that much pity. I glanced at his black t-shirt and read the faded letters. “Red. Is that a

band?”

“Yeah.” He waited almost expectantly, then added, “‘Already Over’? ‘Darkest Part’?” When I

didn’t recognize the titles, he shook his head. “It’s kind of a crime you don’t know what I’m

talking about.”

“Well, maybe you could introduce me—I always like discovering new music.”

“I have a feeling they’re not really your style.” The song on the radio changed, and he raised his

eyebrows meaningfully. “Case in point.”

Beneath my tires, the road changed from concrete to packed dirt as we left the main road.

“What’s wrong with John Denver?”

“Nothing. I just thought all John Denver fans were in nursing homes by now.”

*******************

Online purchase links:

Amazon * Goodreads * BookBub

Pre-order NO MATTER WHAT and fill out the form linked below to receive a signed bookmark!

https://forms.gle/a8oesLjVHbbxXYnD8

About the Author: K.M. Frost was brought up surrounded by books, and has loved stories of all kinds her whole life. Romance, comedy, and fantasy are some of her favorite genres to write, read, and watch. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, traveling, and graphic design.

K.M. Frost lives in Northern Utah, and is the author of the YA sweet contemporary romance, No Matter What, and the YA dystopian trilogy, Reality Dreamers.

Visit her online:

Website * Facebook * Instagram * Goodreads * BookBub

Royal Rebel by Heather Frost * Book Tour and Excerpt!

2023-04-19T05:30:00.049-06:00

Genre: YA Fantasy Romance

Series: Fate of Eyrinthia Book 4

Release Date: April 21, 2023

Book Description:

A PRINCE fighting to save a princess

A SERJAH torn between duty and desire

A PRINCESS willing to sacrifice everything

A DECOY with nothing to lose

A WORLD about to be torn apart

After his father’s latest punishment, Grayson isn’t at his full strength. Trapped in Ryden and surrounded by enemies, he knows escaping with Mia will be more complicated than anticipated. Tyrell is determined to claim Mia for himself, and Henri’s plans for the rest of Eyrinthia are more horrific than Grayson ever imagined. Despite the increased danger, he and Mia must return to Mortise and warn Desfan of what’s coming—even though it may already be too late.

In Mortise, the palace is still reeling from the brutal attack that left many dead and even more wounded. Regardless of the chaos, Desfan is determined to continue with his coronation. As serjan, he hopes to bring stability to his country and solidify the peace with Devendra. But things in Eyrinthia are always complicated. When Prince Liam reveals they may be facing dangers from old enemies, Desfan will have to decide what kind of ruler he will be.

Devastating news from home has left Clare broken. Despite her heartache, she must once again be Serene’s decoy when a terrifying report sends the princess on an unexpected mission to Zennor. Left at the palace, Clare helps Desfan build trust with the elite in Mortise while guarding a treasonous secret. Because as her grief transforms into a burning desire for vengeance, she is finally ready to embrace a new role—rebel.

Eyrinthia is consumed by uncertainty. Duty. Desire. Sacrifice. Every rebellion has its cost.

My thoughts: Eyrinthia, a fictional land that has captured my mind and imagination.

Heather Frost has a wonderful writing style. Royal Rebel is written from several points of view. Somehow she keeps the story flowing and easy to follow. The storylines make for one cohesive whole. War is coming. All of the characters are working for the same goal, to keep themselves out of the grasp of the King of Ryden. (The King is one of my least favorite characters.)

To keep the story straight I highly recommend starting with Royal Decoy. The books need to be read in order.

I love the fictional world of Eyrinthia. It is an intriguing place to pass the time.

Source: I received a complimentary ebook. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Rating:. 4.5 of 5 stars

Online Purchase Links:

Kindle * Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Indie Bound * Goodreads

Read an Excerpt!

*********************

Imara eyed Serene. “How does Desfan seem? Is he all right?”

“Yes. He actually seemed quite happy today.”

“Good. I’m glad.”

Something about her tone was wrong. Serene frowned. “Are you all right?”

Imara took a slow breath, not looking at her as she released her hand. Looking at the quilt in her lap, she said, “I

kissed him.”

Serene blinked. “What?”

Imara blushed, but she managed to peek over at Serene. “Last night, when we hid in the pantry, I . . . well, he

kissed me. But I kissed him back. I think. Or maybe I didn’t, and I just didn’t stop him. It all happened so fast, I’m

not sure.”

Serene stared, unsure of what to think—what to feel.

Imara bit her lower lip, waiting.

Serene kept staring.

Her cousin’s mouth pressed into a line. “Desfan,” she said pointedly. “I’m talking about Desfan. Your betrothed?

The man who just became serjan—”

“I know who you meant, I’m just . . . surprised.” But maybe she shouldn’t have been. Imara and Desfan had

become friends quickly. She’d seen how at ease they were with each other, how frequently they exchanged

smiles and confidences. She just hadn’t realized her cousin had developed feelings for him, but it was clear she

had. And—obviously—Desfan felt something, too.

“I’m so blind,” she breathed.

“It didn’t mean anything,” Imara said in a rush. “Fates, how could it? It was just the moment. Both of us nearly

died. Our emotions were high. He just leaned in and kissed me, and I—I really do think I may have kissed him

back. But we were interrupted by Karim and Razan.” She threw up her free hand in a staying gesture. “I promise,

they didn’t see anything. This will stay between us. There won’t be any scandal—”

“Imara, I’m not mad,” she said, interrupting the frantic spill of words.

Now it was Imara’s turn to stare. “You’re . . . not?”

“No.” She wasn’t sure why she was unbothered. Maybe because she didn’t love Desfan. Or maybe it was

because she loved Imara, and she wanted her cousin to be happy. It could have also been the fact that she’d

kissed Cardon the night before her engagement to Desfan had become official—and, even now, she was

desperate to kiss Cardon again.

She fiddled with the silver bracelet on her wrist. It was the hidden garrote Cardon had given to her for her

fourteenth birthday, mere weeks after they’d saved each other’s lives during a hunting trip that had taken a

dangerous turn. Even though she’d been young, she’d started to fall in love with him that day.

Imara released a slow, tense breath, pulling Serene from her thoughts. “You’re really not mad?” Imara asked,

obviously disbelieving.

“No,” Serene assured her.

Imara’s eyes narrowed. “If I were engaged to marry Desfan Cassian and you kissed him, I’d probably slap you.”

********************

Facebook * Instagram * Twitter * Goodreads * Book Bub * Join Heather’s Mailing List

Pre-order Gift Details:

Pre-order Royal Rebel and get your exclusive Fate of Eyrinthia short story: The Princess and the New Bodyguard!

About the Story:

Serene knows things have been strained between her parents since the civil war ended. She hopes a trip to Lambern Lake will bring her family back together. What she doesn’t expect is to grow closer to her new bodyguard, Cardon. Serene is about to learn that one day can irrevocably change the course of a life.

How to Claim Your Gift:

Simply pre-order Royal Rebel in any format, take a screenshot of your receipt and fill out the form here: https://forms.gle/M3CPw3Y6RaLLChdw6

New to Eyrinthia? You can start this romantasy series now for .99! Royal Decoy is on sale April 17-21 (US and UK Kindle stores)

Kindle: https://mybook.to/lvabZJ

Clare made a mistake when she saved the princess’s life . . .

In one horrible night, Clare is forced to give up her life as a kitchen maid to become the princess’s decoy. Thrust into a dangerous new world of royals and deadly politics, she must learn how to be the princess’s perfect double to ensure her betrothal to an enemy prince. Desperate to survive, Clare throws herself into self-defense training, taught by her distractingly attractive bodyguard, Bennick. The spark between them is undeniable, though a relationship is forbidden. When a ruthless assassin begins stalking her, it becomes frighteningly clear that some will stop at nothing to end the tenuous peace—and Clare’s life.

Across the northern mountains, Prince Grayson is his father’s ultimate weapon. His name inspires fear in all who hear it, but no one knows his heavily guarded secret. He carries out every brutal order only because his father holds power over the one person he cares about. Grayson’s silent obedience is tested, however, when his father reveals plans to exploit the marriage alliance between two of their greatest enemies. If Grayson submits, the blood of thousands will spill. If he resists, the girl who means everything to him will die.

The fate of Eyrinthia hangs in the balance. Some want peace. Some want war. All will be thrown into chaos.

Royal Decoy is book 1 in the Fate of Eyrinthia YA fantasy romance series told from multiple POVs. If you like swoon-worthy romance, complex characters, and non-stop action with epic twists, then you’ll love the captivating world of Eyrinthia.

A Waltz With Traitors by A.L. Sowards

2023-04-10T05:30:00.042-06:00

A Waltz with Traitors by A.L. Sowards
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
Source: Received to Review and purchased my own copy.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Book Description: Czech soldier Filip Sedlák never wanted to fight for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. So at the first opportunity, he defected to the Russians. Now he and others like him have formed the Czechoslovak Legion. Their goal: leave the chaos of Russia, sail to France, and help the Allies defeat the Central Powers, thereby toppling a hated empire and winning an independent Czechoslovakia. With the fall of the tsar, Nadia Linskaya’s life is in ruins. Her family is dead, her lands are confiscated, and her aristocratic world is gone forever. But Nadia is determined to elude the Bolshevik agent who destroyed her family and find a way to survive in this changed world. When Nadia takes refuge with the Czechoslovak Legion, the last thing she expects is an ally. But when Filip proposes a sham marriage to ensure her safe passage across Siberia, she takes it. Neither Filip nor Nadia expect real love, not when the legion has to take over the longest railroad in the world—and then hold it against Bolshevik counterattacks, partisan sabotage, allied intrigue, and a set of brutal Siberian winters. At risk is the future of Czechoslovakia, the fate of Russia—and their hearts.

My thoughts: A.L. Sowards has done it again. She has crafted an amazing book featuring a time period in history that I was not familiar with. Her attention to detail is fantastic. She also brings the characters and time to life. I quickly got into the story of Nadia, Filip, and all of their friends.

The story features a time period in Russia where the Czar has been executed and the chaos that ensues as Russians are fighting each other and a band of the Czechoslovak Legion is caught in the middle.

Filip saved Nadia when she was nearly executed by the Communist Russians. She had the "misfortune" of being born the daughter of a Baron. She is given an opportunity to escape and enters into a "fake" marriage with Filip to escape by train. The road ahead is brutal as Philip fights his way to leave Russia and Nadia learns a new way of living. I loved these two characters.

A.L. Sowards is meticulous with the events of the time period. She illustrates the brutality of war and how men treated their fellow men and women. Nadia has a particularly rough go of things. She doesn't go into detail but it is understood how badly she was abused by bandits. The events could be a trigger for those sensitive to sexual abuse and war violence.

I give this book a very high recommendation.

Source: I received a review copy and purchased my own.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

About the Author:

I love books, so that makes Goodreads my favorite social media site. As a reader, I enjoy a variety of books. As a writer, I create historical novels with a wholesome mix of action, adventure, and romance. My stories include a Whitney Award winner, several Whitney finalists, and a Gold Medal winner in the Readers' Favorite International Book Awards.

I'm a wife and a mother of three, and I've called Washington State, Utah, and Alaska home. I'm usually reading a couple books at once and working on multiple writing projects too. Other than that, my life is pretty ordinary. I'm grateful for that. I'll let the characters in my books have all the adventures.

Stay in Touch:
Newsletter sign up: https://alsowards.com/newsletter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.l.sowards/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ALSowards/

This map helped me a ton. It was easier to keep track where the characters were along the tracks.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Spotlighting Jaime Jo Wright's The Vanishing at Castle Moreau

2023-04-08T16:19:00.004-06:00

I missed the boat on posting for this blog tour, I didn't finish the book either. I could make all the excuses in the world, but I won't. I'll just say that due to personal reasons I messed up. Instead, I am posting a spotlight with a review to come in the near future.

I love the cover. It captures my eye and imagination. The mystery vibe is intriguing.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

A haunting legend. An ominous curse. A search for a secret buried deep within the castle walls.

In 1870, orphaned Daisy François takes a position as a housemaid at a Wisconsin castle to

escape the horrors of her past life. There she finds a reclusive and eccentric Gothic

authoress who hides tales more harrowing than the ones in her novels. As women disappear

from the area and the eerie circumstances seem to parallel a local legend, Daisy is thrust into

a web that could ultimately steal her sanity, if not her life.

In the present day, Cleo Clemmons is hired by the grandson of an American aristocratic family

to help his grandmother face her hoarding in the dilapidated Castle Moreau. But when Cleo

uncovers more than just the woman's stash of collectibles, a century-old mystery and the dust

of the old castle's curse threaten to rise again . . . this time to leave no one alive to tell the

sordid tale.

Award-winning author Jaime Jo Wright seamlessly weaves a dual-time tale of two women who

must do all they can to seek the light amid the darkness shrouding Castle Moreau.

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

AUTHOR BIO

Jaime Jo Wright is the author of eight novels, including Christy Award and Daphne du Maurier Award-winner The House on Foster Hill and Carol Award winner The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond. She's also the Publishers Weekly and ECPA bestselling author of two novellas. Jaime lives in Wisconsin with her cat named

Foo; her husband, Cap'n Hook; and their two mini-adults, Peter Pan and CoCo.

PRAISE FOR THE VANISHING AT CASTLE MOREAU

“Wright (The Souls of Lost Lake) captivates with a thrilling tale of two women who get caught up in the secrets of a Wisconsin castle…The twisting, fast-moving plot is loaded with secrets, and the characters remain morally ambiguous until the end. Readers won’t want to put this down.”— Publisher’s Weekly
"Wright (The Premonition at Withers Farm) pens another delightfully creepy tale where nothing is quite as it seems and characters seek freedom from nightmares both real and imagined.”— Library Journal

"Jaime Jo Wright never disappoints, and The Vanishing at Castle Moreau is no exception. With real, flawed characters who grapple with real-life struggles, this gripping suspense novel will draw readers in from the very first page. Good luck putting it down. I couldn't."— Lynette Eason, bestselling author of the Extreme Measures serie

Spotlighting Hanna Linder's When Tomorrow Came

2023-04-08T15:51:00.003-06:00

I am so late for the party! I should have had a review up a week ago, instead, I am posting a spotlight. Life has gotten the better of me lately leaving me emotionally and mentally drained. This is a book that I really do want to read, it will happen...soon. In the meantime, here is the info and it excites you to read the book too.

They Waited Their Whole Lives for Their Papa to Return

Nan and Heath Duncan, siblings abandoned by their papa and abused by their guardian,

have no choice but to survive on the London streets. When a kind gentleman rescues Nan

from such a life, the siblings are separated and raised in two vastly different social worlds.

Just when both are beginning to flourish and years have healed some of their wounds,

their long-awaited papa returns and reunites them--bringing demands with him. Nan is

expected to marry a rich suitor she's never liked, and Heath is expected to forsake his gentle

spirit and become the hardened man his father always was.

Dangers unfold, secret love develops, fights ensue, and murder upsets the worlds Heath

and Nan have built for themselves. They've waited their whole lives for their papa to return,

for tomorrow to come--but now that it has, will they be able to see through to the truth and

end this whirlwind of a nightmare before it costs one of their lives?

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by

Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021

Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction

Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design associate degree graduate who specializes in

professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and

individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait

photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments--piano, guitar,

and ukulele--songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of

her 1800s farmhouse.

PRAISE FOR WHEN TOMORROW CAME

"The plot is full of intrigue, and it’s anchored by complicated characters whose secrets

are slowly, carefully revealed. Readers will be hooked."— Publisher’s Weekly
“Filled with intrigue, heartache, love, and a cast of beloved characters…this unique story
had me crying and cheering. I can’t wait to read her next book!”—
Kimberley Woodhouse, bestselling author of the award-winning Secrets of the
Canyon series
When Tomorrow Came captured my heart from the very beginning…All the
characters were so endearing and the story line with mystery and suspense kept me
up way too late.”— Dana Michael, Goodreads

Book Review: Worlds Collide by Traci Hunter Abramson

2023-03-11T13:43:00.001-07:00

Worlds Collide by Traci Hunter Abramson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Source: Purchase and received a review copy.

Book Description: Pairs figure skaters Tyler and Amaliya have achieved the ultimate victory: a gold medal in the 1984 Olympics. But somehow, that victory holds less weight than what faces Tyler next: asking Amaliya’s overprotective father for permission to marry his daughter. When Robert senses a disconnect in Tyler’s and his daughter’s goals, he withholds his blessing, and the couple must determine if what lies ahead for each of them can truly align. As they consider their next steps together, they are unaware that their careers are in jeopardy. They have caught the attention of dangerous and powerful men—men who have vowed to never again allow the American pair to rise above the Soviet’s.

Amaliya’s mother, Katerina, is haunted by the decisions of her past and longs to be reunited with her brother, who is trapped behind the Iron Curtain. But her attempts to see him do not go unnoticed. The KGB does not let its people go easily, and now they know where to find Katerina, the defector. With danger closing in on Katerina and the competition heating up for Tyler and Amaliya, it seems that their dreams for the future may shatter.

My thoughts: Wow!

The Dream's Edge series is so good. It began with the novella Dancing to Freedom. The final book, Worlds Collide, brings the series full circle.

I have loved getting to know the characters. Tyler and Amaliya are very talented. After winning Olympic Gold they head to Canada to participate in the World's competition. There is more at stake than winning gold, Amaliya's mother wants to see her brother. She defected from Russia and knows she is at risk if she comes near the KGB or her brother. This book is intense with political intrigue, high-speed chases, romance, and reunions. I loved it!

Traci Hunter Abramson's writing pulled me in. Her pacing and story are excellent. I highly recommend this series. I wouldn't mind if there is a spin-off series and I can reconnect with the characters.

Source: I received a complimentary copy and purchased one for my library. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

About the Author: Traci Hunter Abramson was born in Arizona, where she lived until moving to Venezuela for a study-abroad program. After graduating from Brigham Young University, she worked for the Central Intelligence Agency for several years, eventually resigning in order to raise her family. She credits the CIA with giving her a wealth of ideas as well as the skills needed to survive her children's teenage years. She is a seven-time Whitney Award winner and has written more than thirty bestselling novels. For more information about Traci, click here: https://linktr.ee/traciabramson

Start where it all began:

Shifting Sands by Kathi Oram Peterson ~ Book Review

2023-03-03T15:44:00.004-07:00

Shifting Sands by Kathi Oram Peterson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Source: Received to Review

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Book Description: All Gloryanna Griffin needs is a full-ride scholarship to finish her master’s degree in marine biology in order to pursue her dream of saving the ocean. However, to be a serious contender for the money, she needs to publish in a prestigious magazine. A research dive off the Olympic Peninsula is a dangerous proposition but one that just might give her article the impact it needs. But when she’s swept into an underwater vortex, she realizes her life may be the price she pays instead.

When she awakens on the rocky beach—miraculously alive—the first person she sees is the handsome stranger who saved her. Over the years, Jonathan Dawson has saved countless lives from the perils of the ocean. But until now, no one has ever seen him. Nearly eighty years ago, he died on this same beach, and his spirit has been tied to the spot ever since. Now Gloryanna and Jonathan are irrevocably linked as they are plunged into a decades’ old mystery that promises answers to the past and keys to the future. But they soon discover that some secrets may be better left undisturbed.

My thoughts: As strange as it may sound, I wanted a human and a ghost to find a HEA.

Gloryanna is a marine biology student on a dive with her instructor and another student vying for the same grant that she is. Strange things happen on the dive that lead her to be sucked into a vortex.

Johnathan was a "sound pounder" during WWII. He stumbles into a situation he wasn't supposed to see and is murdered with his dog.

Their worlds collide when Johnathan pulls her from the sea saving her life. The catch is that she can see and hear him. She is the first person who has been able to. It quickly becomes apparent that their fates are intertwined and that they need each other to solve a mystery that links the past and the present.

Shifting Sands really pulled me in. It was an unlikely situation that worked! I quickly became fully invested in the plot and characters. Gloryanna and Johnathan work to solve the mystery surrounding them before Gloryanna loses her life to a killer. There are many trails that need to be explored before they can solve the mystery. All of them are plausible, this adds to the suspense and kept me turning the pages.

I really enjoyed the time I spent in this novel. It has non-graphic violence.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

About the Author: Kathi Oram Peterson is the Whitney Award winning author of A STRANGER WATCHES (2020) and A FAMILIAR FEAR (2018).

Kathi's heart-pounding suspense novels make readers double check door locks and sleep with a flashlight. Her YA Time Travels bring readers to historical events as if they are there. Her novels have richly-drawn characters and plots that hook readers and make setting the book down nearly impossible.

Keep connected with Kathi--and stay informed about special deals, new released, and other reader perks--by signing up for her newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cE52Y1

Visit Kathi at:
Her website http://authorkathiorampeterson.com/
Bookbub: : https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kathi...
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/y65rlqtj
Tweeter: https://twitter.com/KathiOPeterson
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Kathi-Oram-Pet...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/kathiopeter...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkathip/

Book Review and Blog Tour ~To Win her Hand by Jen Geigle Johnson

2023-02-28T05:30:00.018-07:00

An expert at winning a woman's hand. A woman who cannot be won.

Lord Featherstone has the world on his shoulders. Or at least his world. With two brothers and

a failing estate he must make funds somehow. But what happens when he falls for a woman?

Will his tactics work when the situation is so close and personal?

Everyone thinks Lady Loveluck is a wealthy widow. What they don't know is that she is on the

brink of hiring herself out as a Governess in order to pay for her next meal. The only thing

keeping her from employment is a growing reputation as a matchmaker. As long as she never

falls for another man, as long as she doesn't allow herself to be fooled into marrying, she will

be just fine.

But she never counted on being caught up in the beguiling tactics of London's renowned and

not so secret matchmaker for men.

My thoughts: Have you read a book by Jen Geigle Johnson? If not, why?

To Win Her Hand has the elements that I love in a Regency romance. I love banter. It is definitely one of my favorites. This book definitely has that. I love likable and relatable characters. I love a good story with excellent pacing. All of the above are found in the pages of this novel.

A male and a female matchmaker make a friendly wager. They both have a client, the one who makes the first match wins. The stakes are high, the loser has to move from London and establish themselves in Bath.

The matchmakers have finally met their match. I loved this story.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

~Lisa~

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

About the Author: Jen Geigle Johnson is an award-winning author, including the GOLD in Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards and LDSPMA Praiseworthy's top award for Romance,

Jen has more stories circulating in her brain than can possibly be told. She discovered her passion for England while kayaking on the Thames near London as a young teenager. History is her main jam. Her literary heroes include the greats: Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. But she has modern sensibilities as well.

Six children and an inspiring husband keep her going and make certain she doesn't stay glued to a keyboard or lost in obscure fascinating details of old castles.

Now, she loves to share bits of history that might otherwise be forgotten. Whether in Regency England, the French Revolution, or Colonial America, her romance novels are much like life is supposed to be: full of adventure.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

PRAISE FOR TO WIN HER HAND

"I loved the character growth, watching them learn more about the other’s heart and hardships, and the realization that perhaps they had more choices than they first thought. Such a sweet regency. I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this one."— Makayla Branson, Reading Past Bedtime
“The house party, the quiet moments, the collection of other characters, and much more all combined together made this is delightful read.”— Julie Carpenter, Goodreads
“Two matchmakers with a wager. What fun for all! [A] heart touching story.”— Shauna Jones, Goodreads

COVER REVEAL ~ A Winter by the Sea by Julie Klassen

2023-02-27T06:00:00.025-07:00

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal couple's male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they've invited mysterious secrets and the sweet possibility of romance into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers approaches a local publisher in hopes of fulfilling her dream of becoming an author. When he turns her down, his dashing competitor promises to consider her novel if she will first write a new Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily accepts and begins researching with the help of the Duke of Kent's handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she used to hold dear and her budding dreams for the future.

Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

About the Author: Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold more than a million copies and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also been honored with the Minnesota Book Award, Midwest Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota.

AUTHOR MESSAGE

Dear Readers,

I am excited to give you an insider’s look at my December 2023 novel, A Winter by the Sea. This is the second book in the On Devonshire Shores series. Book One, The Sisters of Sea View, has been enthusiastically received and reviewed. I am grateful for each of you who helped spread the word about it!

During my research, I learned that the Duke and Duchess of Kent and their baby daughter stayed in Woolbrook Cottage (very near fictional Sea View) during the winter of 1819-1820. I instantly knew I wanted to include them in the novel to give readers a glimpse of the early life of Queen Victoria and her parents. The royal party arrived with too many attendants to accommodate at Woolbrook, so some were lodged elsewhere. I thought it would be fun to have a few staff members stay at Sea View, including a pastry chef who invades their kitchen, a man in desperate straits, and the duke’s handsome private secretary.

It was also interesting to write a seaside novel set during wintertime (it was unusually cold and snowy that year). Because I live in frigid Minnesota, cold weather details and sensations were easy to imagine. 😊

When I began writing this series, I had not yet traveled to Sidmouth, where the series is set. I am happy to say I was able to visit in August 2022 and was thrilled to experience this delightful town in person. The highlight of that trip was meeting the staff and volunteers of the Sidmouth Museum who have been extremely helpful in answering research questions and checking setting details for me.

A Winter by the Sea focuses on beautiful Emily Summers, who finds herself caught up in two rivalries. First, while striving to further her writing aspirations, Emily is torn between her loyalty to a well-established publisher & bookseller and his flamboyant competitor. Second, despite her best intentions, she is attracted to one of their new guests, but an old love comes to town, determined to renew their courtship.

I hope you are eager to return with me to the English seaside for Book Two of the On Devonshire Shores series. Thank you for all you do to support my books, and readers everywhere!

Gratefully, Julie

COVER REVEAL ~ Royal Rebel by Heather Frost.

2023-02-26T15:36:00.001-07:00

A PRINCE fighting to save a princess
A SERJAH torn between duty and desire
A PRINCESS willing to sacrifice everything
A DECOY with nothing to lose
A WORLD about to be torn apart

After his father’s latest punishment, Grayson isn’t at his full strength. Trapped in Ryden and surrounded by enemies, he knows escaping with Mia will be more complicated than anticipated. Tyrell is determined to claim Mia for himself, and Henri’s plans for the rest of Eyrinthia are more horrific than Grayson ever imagined. Despite the increased danger, he and Mia must return to Mortise and warn Desfan of what’s coming—even though it may already be too late.

In Mortise, the palace is still reeling from the brutal attack that left many dead and even more wounded. Regardless of the chaos, Desfan is determined to continue with his coronation. As serjan, he hopes to bring stability to his country and solidify the peace with Devendra. But things in Eyrinthia are always complicated. When Prince Liam reveals they may be facing dangers from old enemies, Desfan will have to decide what kind of ruler he will be.

Devastating news from home has left Clare broken. Despite her heartache, she must once again be Serene’s decoy when a terrifying report sends the princess on an unexpected mission to Zennor. Left at the palace, Clare helps Desfan build trust with the elite in Mortise while guarding a treasonous secret. Because as her grief transforms into a burning desire for vengeance, she is finally ready to embrace a new role—rebel.

Eyrinthia is consumed by uncertainty. Duty. Desire. Sacrifice. Every rebellion has its cost.

I have been looking forward to reading this book for a loooong time. Heather Frost is one of my go-to authors. If she writes it, I want to read it. Royal Rebel releases on April 21st. You can pre-order a copy and get a gift from the author! Here are the details:

Pre-order ROYAL REBEL (Fate of Eyrinthia #4) in any format, then fill out the form below to receive an exclusive short story: The PRINCESS AND THE NEW BODYGUARD.

About the short story:

Pre-order Gift Form:
https://forms.gle/M3CPw3Y6RaLLChdw6

Cover reveal ~ "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord: A Mystery" by Celeste Connally with a giveaway!

2023-02-26T08:00:00.037-07:00

Bridgerton meets Agatha Christie in Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord, a dazzling first entry in a terrific new Regency-era cozy series with a feminist spin.

When Lady Petra Forsyth’s fiancé and soulmate dies just weeks ahead of their wedding,

she makes the shocking proclamation―in front of London’s loosest lips―that she will never

remarry. A woman of independent means, Petra sees no reason to cede her wealth and

freedom to any man now that the love of her life has passed, nor does she intend to become

confined to her country home. Instead, she uses her title to gain access to elite spaces and

enjoy the best of society without expectations.

But when ballroom gossip suggests that a longtime friend has died of “melancholia” while

in the care of a questionable physician, Petra vows to use her status to dig deeper―

uncovering a private asylum where men pay to have their wives and daughters locked away,

or worse. Just as Lady Petra has reason to believe her friend is not dead, but a prisoner, her

own headstrong actions and thirst for independence are used to put her own freedom in

jeopardy.

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

About the Author: Celeste Connally is an Agatha Award nominee, and a former freelance writer and editor. A lifelong devotee of historical novels and adaptations fueled by her passion for history—plus weekly doses of PBS Masterpiece—Celeste loves reading and writing about women from the past who didn’t always do as they were told.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

GIVEAWAY CHANCE

Author Celeste Connally and her publisher Minotaur Books are generously offering a fabulous

giveaway for your readers that you can add to your post and on social media.

Giveaway Details:

Two (2) winners (selected at random by Rafflecopter) will receive one (1) advanced reader’s

paperback copy of Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord. One (1) winner (selected at random by Rafflecopter) will receive one (1) advanced reader’s

paperback copy of Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord and a gift prize package containing the following:

A Jane Austen 'Obstinate, Headstrong Girl' mug from the Jane Austen Centre giftshop.
A bookmark, and a bookplate signed by the author.
A medley of Harney & Sons teas in various flavors individually wrapped teabags.
A handmade ceramic tea tidy in the shape of a teapot for teabags.
A box of English tea biscuits.

Giveaway period: Open from 12:01 am Pacific time 02/22/23 until 11:59pm Pacific time on 03/19/23.

Terms & Conditions:

The giveaway is hosted by Celeste Connally and Minotaur Books. No purchase is necessary.

Entrants must be 18 years or older. Open to US residents only. All information will remain

confidential and will not be sold or otherwise used, except to notify the winner and to facilitate

postage of the books and prizes to the winners. Void where prohibited. One giveaway item per

eligible entrant.

Announcement of Winner:

Visit author Celeste Connally’s website on March 20, 2023, to see if you won one of the three prizes.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Miss Newbury's Lisa by Megan Walker #bookreview #regencyromance

2023-02-20T15:27:00.000-07:00

Miss Newbury's List by Megan Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Source: Received to Review

Genre: Regency Romance

Book Description: Before Rosalind weds, she wants to experience ten things. Meeting Charlie wasn’t on her list.

England, 1820

Rosalind Newbury is counting down the days until her wedding to the Duke of Marlow, a man she has only met twice, and she knows exactly how she wants to spend her time. As a child, Ros created a list of ten things to do before her wedding day. So far, she has done none of them.

She is determined to tackle each item, though she’ll have to accomplish them all in secret. After all, a soon-to-be-duchess is not usually allowed to bury treasure in the pasture, eat sweets all day, or learn how to swim. She enlists the help of her best friend, Liza, who brings along her cousin, Charlie, a prodigal son-turned-boxer who has come to the countryside to mend his reputation and learn how to be his father’s heir.

Together, the three of them work to complete the list, and as each item is crossed off, an unlikely friendship blossoms between Ros and Charlie. The more time they spend together, the more Ros falls in love with this imperfect man and his good heart.

With the wedding looming, Ros must decide to either admit her romantic feelings for Charlie and risk her family’s future, or keep her promise to marry the duke and start a new life as a noblewoman.

My thoughts: Miss Newbury is getting married to a Duke that she hardly knows. Her family has longed for a title to come into the family. It will help with her younger brother's prospects and give them a bit of respectability. She is being traded for a parcel of land that the Duke wants back as part of his estate.

Rosalind is perfectly happy with this arrangement until her best friend returns to the country after a season in London. She remembers that she has a list of things she wants to accomplish before her wedding and seeks the help of her friend and her friend's cousin to complete the tasks.

Some of the goals need the help of another. She quickly finds that learning to swim is not something she should do on her own. Fortunately, Charlie is able to swim and rescues her from drowning. They become friends as he helps her with the list. It doesn't take long for her to figure out that a loveless arranged marriage is not something she wants.

This story was a joy to read. I loved, loved, loved Charlie and Rosalind. I also adored Rosalind's younger brother who will do all in his power to protect her reputation. Including beating up a pugilist who never loses.

For a while, it appeared that there would not be a HEA in her future. She has to find a way for love to conquer all without ruining her family.

Source: I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

About the Author: Megan Walker was raised on a berry farm in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, where her imagination took her to times past and worlds away. While earning her degree in Early Childhood Education, she married her one true love and started a family. But her imaginings of Regency England wouldn't leave her alone, so she picked up a pen. And the rest is history. She lives in St. Louis, Missouri, with her husband and three children.

Meriden Park by Julie Daines - A Delightful Robin Hood Retelling

2023-02-02T16:35:00.001-07:00

Meriden Park by Julie Daines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Source: Received to Review

Genre: Historical Fiction/Retelling

Book Description: Following her childhood rescue from the gutters of Calcutta, Mary Grace has lived an astonishing rags-to-riches tale. The Wellings raised the half-Indian orphan with all the love and care the childless couple possessed, allowing her to grow into a beautiful and refined woman. But upon Mr. Welling's death, it is time for Mrs. Welling to take Mary home to England- home to Meriden Park.

Despite her genial nature, Mary is received with suspicion by the villagers. For his part, however, Mr. Robert Markham is intrigued by the curious new beauty in town. Determined to make her acquaintance, he offers Mary a bargain she can't
refuse: a hot cross bun for a kiss. That seemingly innocent exchange is the first of many encounters between Robert and Mary, whose friendship blossoms into love during long walks in the privacy of Sherwood Forest. But the shadows of the forest hide a sinister secret, one Mary fears Robert might be a part of. As the mystery of the recent string of murders creeps closer and closer, Robert and Mary are drawn into a dangerous game, and unless she can unearth the truth, the couple risks losing one another forever.

My thoughts: I have always been fascinated with the legend of Robin Hood. How could I help not loving a hero that robs the rich to give to those truly in need?

Meriden Park is a welcome addition to the spirit of the legend. Robert Markham is a fantastic male MC. He loves Robin and all he stood for. He introduces the newest resident, Mary Grace, to the legend. It is helpful that she lives next to Sherwood Forrest. It adds to the mystery of the story. Someone is killing people in the forest. Mary Grace had the misfortune to run across a victim and put her life in danger.

I loved the interplay between Mary and Robert. During that time period, they would be an unlikely pair. She is from India and he is an Englishman. Robert was a hero to me when he saw Mary for the smart and beautiful woman she was. Their first meeting will always be a favorite of mine. He offered hot-cross buns for a kiss. I really don't think that either of them thought they were in earnest when she accepted. I believe that I was grinning from ear to ear. This event set the tone for their future interactions and the playfulness of their mutual attraction.

Julie Daines did a wonderful job of keeping an element of mystery running throughout the novel. While setting the stage for one of the villains. she was able to add twists that left me surprised at others.

I really enjoyed the book.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

About the Author: Julie Daines is an award-winning and best-selling author. She was born in Concord, Massachusetts, and was raised in Utah. She spent eighteen months living in London, where she studied and fell in love with English literature, sticky toffee pudding, and the mysterious guy who ran the kebab store around the corner.

She loves reading, writing, and watching movies—anything that transports her to another world. She picks Captain Wentworth over Mr. Darcy, firmly believes in second breakfast, and never leaves home without her vervain.

Visit her WEBPAGE.

Five Stars to "Scotland's Melody" by Katie Stewart Stone

2023-01-19T06:30:00.000-07:00

Scotland's Melody by Katie Stewart Stone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Source: Received to Review

Genre: Historical Romance

Book Description: Melody Foster has been granted every luxury available save one: the ability to love whom she chooses. When her father reveals that she is to marry a wild Scot she’s never met, Melody defies him and declares she will never marry without affection. Her choice to marry Richard, a footman in her father’s household, prompts her family to disown her, and she goes to London to risk everything for love. But she is blindsided. Without a penny to her name, her love is worthless to Richard, and he decides to change tactics. Perhaps she could still serve a purpose—after all, her family can’t sit idly by while she is held for ransom . . .

Desperate to escape the man she thought she loved, Melody finds allies to aid her: first, her old governess and then Cameron Findlay, a handsome stranger who is startled by the distraught young woman who catapulted into his life. Cam finds himself sympathetic to the young woman’s plight, so he and his sister agree to take her on as a servant in their household. Cam and Melody are powerfully drawn to one another, but can Melody ever trust her heart when it was so terribly wrong before?

My thoughts: I made the mistake of starting this book in the evening. I didn't get much sleep. I woke up early to finish the book. I did not want to put this one down.

Melody wants to marry for love. I wholeheartedly support this. She finds out the hard way that not all men are honest or have her best interests at heart. Her mistake of running away to the wrong man led her to the right man.

I loved Cameron and his sister. She couldn't have chosen to hide in a better carriage. When she met them she found the path to happiness. Not to say that they were perfect or that there weren't challenges to overcome in the book. There is a lot of story in the middle that left me captivated.

I could not give Scotland's Melody a higher recommendation. I loved this book and would want to read it again.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Online Purchase Links:

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Deseret Book * Seagull Book

About the Author: Katie Stewart Stone is an Austen enthusiast, a blogger, a journal-writer, and a wife and mother. With her debut work, Coming Home to Bellingham, Katie achieved a life-long goal of finishing and publishing a novel. She writes what she wants to read and rarely reads anything without a good romance. Katie graduated from Brigham Young University in 2012 with a bachelors in Therapuetic Recreation and spent six years working in the non-profit world, while writing on the side. When her beautiful boy was born in 2018, she quit her day-job and committed to finishing her first Regency novel. Now she spends her days dreaming up new ways to bring young lovers together in the most Regency-appropriate scenarios possible, along with carrying out her duties as a stay-at-home mother to two wonderful children who were named after Austen characters.

Visit her WEBSITE!