Audio Book Review: Hope Harbor by Irene Hannon

This is a nice story with second chance romance and family redemption.
Hope Harbor
By Irene Hannon
Narrator: Therese Plummer

Duration: 9 h 45 min
Release date: 07-07-15
Publisher: Recorded Books
Genre: Christian Romance, Contemporary
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
Come home to Hope Harbor - where hearts heal...and love blooms. Tracy Campbell never wanted to leave Hope Harbor, Oregon, or the idyllic three-generation cranberry farm where she grew up. But life - and love - altered her plans. Now she's home again - with a floundering farm to run...a tragic secret...and a wounded heart. Romance is not on her agenda. Nor is it on Michael Hunter's. The visitor from Chicago has daunting secrets and devastating regrets of his own. But when Tracy recruits him to help with a project that is close to her heart, winds of change begin to sweep through Hope Harbor, bringing healing, hope, and love to countless lives - including their own.
©2015 Irene Hannon (P)2015 Recorded Books

Review:
Tracy Campbell grew up in Hope Harbor and came back after being away at college. Although she is glad to be back with her Aunt and Uncle taking care of the cranberry farm, she has survived a tragic loss, and is struggling with the decline of the farm. She is focused on the farm and not ready to open herself to new hurt.

Michael Hunter has come to Hope Harbor due to a long desire of his deceased wife. His visit is intended to be short term while he tries to focus his life dealing with regrets after her death. He bumps into Tracy and soon finds himself helping her and making friends in the community. Michael is also drawing his new landlord out of her self-imposed seclusion of many years.

I liked how both Tracy and Michael slowly begin to recognize that their meeting is not mere coincidence, and perhaps God has a different plan for their future. The romance is sweet and the underlying faith messages of healing, hope, and forgiveness are encouraging. I recommend this story (and author) to fans of clean, Christian romance.

Audio Notes: Therese Plummer is a lovely narrator. She delivers clear voices and energy that fits the characters and plot. Her narration enhanced the story for me.

Source: 2018 Audiobooks.com 2 for 1 credit. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook, and 2023Location goals.

Audible Book Review: Etched in Bone, A Novel of the Others by Anne Bishop

I do like this creative series.

Etched in Bone
A Novel of the Others
By: Anne Bishop
Narrated by: Alexandra Harris

Length: 16 hrs and 21 mins
Release date: 03-07-17
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Genre: Contemporary, Fantasy, Shifters
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's summary
New York Times best-selling author Anne Bishop returns to her world of the Others, as humans struggle to survive in the shadow of shape-shifters and vampires far more powerful than themselves….
After a human uprising was brutally put down by the Elders - a primitive and lethal form of the Others - the few cities left under human control are far-flung. And the people within them now know to fear the no man's land beyond their borders - and the darkness....
As some communities struggle to rebuild, Lakeside Courtyard has emerged relatively unscathed, though Simon Wolfgard, its wolf shifter leader, and blood prophet Meg Corbyn must work with the human pack to maintain the fragile peace. But all their efforts are threatened when Lieutenant Montgomery's shady brother arrives, looking for a free ride and easy pickings.
With the humans on guard against one of their own, tensions rise, drawing the attention of the Elders, who are curious about the effect such an insignificant predator can have on a pack. But Meg knows the dangers, for she has seen in the cards how it will all end: with her standing beside a grave.
©2017 Anne Bishop (P)2017 Penguin Audio

Review:
The human communities are struggling to rebuild after the Elders of the Others brutally ended a human rebellion which was directed at killing the Others. Lakeside Courtyard has reached a delicate balance between the shifters and humans, but there are new arrivals and outsiders who threaten the peace.

Lieutenant Montgomery is a human officer who has worked well with the community. His Mother, sister and her children have moved to Lakeside and are settling in. His mother especially has found friends and a good work position. His sister is having more of a struggle, and unwittingly, has led an estranged brother, Jimmy, to think he can make an easy move to the Courtyard. Montgomery warns Simon Wolfgard that Jimmy has an unsavory past and is likely to cause trouble. Simon would like to deny Jimmy entry to the community but the Elders direct him to allow the man in so they can watch how a troublemaker behaves and impacts the pack.

Jimmy arrives with his wife and two children. His wife has no desire to work or contribute in a positive way to the community, but she does want Jimmy to bring home food and money. Their son is bullying his sister and cousins as he follows in his father’s footsteps. They may only be one family but the disruption and danger they bring is more than the Elders expected.

I enjoyed this continuation of the series. The abusive situations were hard to read and there are interesting group and family dynamics addressed in the conflicts that Ms. Bishop creates for the characters. I found the hints of future connections among the characters, particularly Simon and Meg, interesting. I recommend a reader start this series at the beginning and then they can enjoy the interaction better.

Audio Notes: Alexandra Harris does a wonderful job with the narration. She provides clear character voices and energy. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 10/17/22 Audible September Credit. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: Christmas at Cozy Holly Inn by Meredith Summers

This is a nice, easy Christmas romance.

Christmas at Cozy Holly Inn
Written by Meredith Summers
Narrated by Hollis McCarthy

Run Time: 7h 9min
Release Date: November 14, 2022
Publisher: Leighann Dobbs Publishing
Genre: Christmas, Contemporary, Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher Description
A sweet, cozy small town holiday romance perfect for snuggling up by the fire with a steaming mug of hot cocoa and a cat or two by your side.
When Julie Green’s ailing grandmother asks her to arrange one last party at the old Inn she used to run, Julie can’t say no even though the last thing she wants is to leave the city for middle-of-nowhere Vermont. Even worse, Cozy Holly Inn is in disrepair, there’s a persnickety cat hiding in the basement and the family of grinches who own the competing inn down the street seem determined to ruin her chances of success.
Nolan Miller retreated to Pinecone Falls, Vermont, to heal his broken heart and help his grandfather run Barrington Lodge - a rustic old bed-and-breakfast that has been in the family for generations. This year, though, he needs to find a way to get his Christmas spirit back before he turns into a grinch like his father and grandfather. But even if he gets his spirit back, he’s not letting anyone in again, especially not Julie Green who has made it clear she’s leaving town as soon as she can.
But when Julie needs help, Nolan can’t say no and putting the party together makes Julie realize that small town friendships might have more to offer than big city lights.
Kringle, the cat, only wants a warm home and his forever human. This girl, Julie, does not seem to fit the bill no matter what the nice lady at the animal shelter told him. Julie knows nothing about cats so he will do his best to get her to return him to the shelter. But as the week unfolds, Kringle discovers that people can change in surprising ways and sometimes what you thought you wanted, isn’t what you really needed at all.

Review:
Julie has recently lost her job. She is reluctantly available to arrange a last party for her ailing grandmother at her grandmother’s Cozy Holly Inn in Pinecone Falls, Vermont. Julie has fond memories of visiting with her grandmother, but Julie doesn’t really want to be in remote town instead of seeking to rebuild her life in the city. Working on the party has enough to keep Julie busy without the interference of a fluffy cat that seems to want her gone, especially as Julie keeps threatening to turn the cat over to the local shelter. And then there are the grouchy neighbors who own a competing inn down the street and are inclined to block Julie’s festivities.

Nolan is working with his grumpy father and grandfather to run their bed and breakfast. They are the grinches, not planning to celebrate the Christmas holiday since they have lost their joy with the death of Nolan’s mother. Nolan himself has been recovering from a broken heart and he has no plans to let anyone get close to him again.

Nolan runs into Julie and realizes she needs some help with her big party plans. Despite his family’s animosity, Nolan reaches out to help. And Julie finds that many of the town folk are more than willing to help and to celebrate one of their own. Even the cat begins to sense a change in the atmosphere.

This is a sweet story, and I enjoyed the ‘dance’ as the reluctant characters grow closer together. It is also fun to see how the town folk (and the cat) help out. This was an easy listen and worked for my decision to have a Christmas in July read. I recommend this to those who enjoy Christmas romance.

Audio Notes: Hollis McCarthy does a very nice job with the narration of this work. The narration provides clear voices and emotional energy that fits the characters. I was glad to have this available to listen to.

Source: 12/31/2022 year end purchase at Chirp for $.99. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Along Came Holly by Codi Hall

This is a fun (if steamy) romcom.

Along Came Holly
By: Codi Hall
Narrated by: Veronica Worthington , Skyler Hutchinson

Series: A Mistletoe Romance, Book 3
Length: 9 hrs and 24 mins
Release date: 11-17-22
Publisher: Audible Originals
Categories: Romance, Contemporary
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

About This Audible Original
How can Holly Winters, the Queen of Christmas Cheer, stand to be neighbors with her town’s resident Scrooge?
Holly owns the merriest holiday shop on Main Street. But right next door is the hardware store run by Declan Gallagher, the grinchiest man in all of Mistletoe, Idaho. With Christmas fast approaching, the small-town rivals engage in an all-out prank war, sending each other not-so-friendly season’s greetings.
But when Holly’s ambitious plan to win the town’s Festival of Lights falls apart, she has no one else to call but her handy sworn-nemesis. They say Christmas is a time for miracles, after all. As Holly and Declan work together, they slowly warm up to each other. They might just end up spending Christmas Eve cuddling by the fire.
Along Came Holly is the perfect enemies-to-lovers rom-com sure to warm hearts this holiday season. Curl up with a beau and a cup of hot cocoa and listen to the latest in A Mistletoe Romance series by author Codi Hall.
©2022 Codi Gary (P)2022 Audilble Originals, LLC

Review:
Holly is one of the Winter family who are a close family who enjoy Christmas. Holly herself is ‘Queen of Christmas Cheer’ and is at odds with her shop neighbor, Declan, who is a grinch in their charming town of Mistletoe, Idaho. Holly loves to play Christmas music but Declan bangs on the wall to get her to turn it off. Annoyed by his attitude, Holly sets off a prank war with Declan giving as good as he gets.

Holly is always an active participant in the town’s Festival of Lights. This year the company that is supposed to do the set up calls out sick. No one else has time to take on the job so her last resort is to ask handy man Declan to help put up her many decorations/lights.

Declan is a man with a chip on his shoulder. His mom left when he turned 18 and Declan blames her for tearing apart the family. He loved art and planned to open a studio after college but instead returned home to manage his father’s hardware store when his father broke his hip. Now there are other reasons Declan stays but he isn’t sharing his history with anyone. When it comes to helping Holly with her lights, Declan thinks he can handle it alone. He soon realizes he really can’t manage without help.

I enjoyed the clear tension between Holly and Declan that developed into a more than a light friendship. The bantering and family relationships are fun and engaging. I didn’t necessarily care for the blatant sexual innuendos but that didn’t overcome the fun in the story. This showed as only available until 3/31 so I chose to read it even though it is book 3 in the series and clearly a Christmas story. I’m glad I listened to it and will look forward to the first two books when I’m ready for more Christmas reading. I recommend this to fans of contemporary romance.

Audio Notes: Veronica Worthington, Skyler Hutchinson do a fairly nice job rotating the narration between the primary characters. My only complaint on the narration was that the male voice was joltingly loud. This did distract a little initially, but I adjusted for it. I was still glad to listen to the audio while it was available.

Source: 12/3/2022 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: The Cowboys of Copper Mountain: A Christmas Collection by Katherine Garbera, Jane Porter, Melissa McClone

I liked all of these stories.
The Cowboys of Copper Mountain: A Christmas Collection
By: Katherine Garbera, Jane Porter, Melissa McClone
Narrated by: Loretta Rawlins

Series: Copper Mountain Christmas, Book 1-2
Length: 13 hrs and 16 mins
Release date: 03-24-15
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Anthology, Christmas, Contemporary, Holidays, Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Three novellas and an unforgettable short story, now available together in one festive package!
"A Cowboy for Christmas" by Katherine Garbera. Annie Prudhomme never expected to be back in Marietta, Montana, and her family is fond of reminding her that she left them and the town behind in search of better things. A humiliating divorce that cost her everything she'd gained has driven her back home, and her family isn't about to welcome her back into the fold. She's in town to rebuild the old home that she inherited and to move on once again.
"Christmas at Copper Mountain" by Jane Porter. Since the loss of her family in a plane crash, Harley Diekerhoff has led a quiet life and keeps to herself. Taking the temporary job at the Copper Mountain Ranch as widower Brock Sheenan's housekeeper seems perfect for her. But her calm cocoon is invaded with the arrival of Brock's preteen twins, Mack and Molly, who've never experienced a proper Christmas, and before she knows it Harley's determined to make their holiday perfect.
"Home for Christmas" by Melissa McClone. Ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Rachel Murphy loves the scent of gingerbread baking almost as much as she enjoys creating custom edible houses at Christmastime. But she needs a bigger kitchen if she wants to make the most of her impromptu holiday business. Enter Nate Vaughn, handsome venture capitalist turned Montana dude ranch owner - and her brother's boss.
"Mistletoe Magic" by Melissa McClone. Spending a quiet Christmas housesitting and reading novels about hot cowboys sounds perfect to Caitlin. Until a stray kitten brings her face to face with Noah, her crush from college. Watching the handsome vet in action melts Caitlin's heart and brings back long-forgotten emotion. She would be safer back at the house, lost in the pages of a book. But a toe-curling mistletoe kiss tempts her to stay. Maybe she won't be spending this Christmas...alone.
©2013 Home For Christmas 2013 Melissa McClone. Christmas at Copper Mountain 2013 Jane Porter. (P)2015 Audible Inc.

Review:
These four sweet romances are tied together by the location. I enjoyed that some of the characters were mentioned in the different stories. The writing styles have some differences, but all are easy reading/listening. There is a little bit of sexual content but nothing over the top in my opinion. I plan to read more in the series. I recommend this to fans of second chance and injured party romances.

"A Cowboy for Christmas" by Katherine Garbera.
18-year-old Annie got out of Montana and married a man who set her up in the wealthy style she wanted. But fifteen years later he was arrested as a con man and everything they owned was taken. She has returned to Montana to rebuild the family home that she bought from her sister after their father’s death. The sisters aren’t talking since Annie seemed to have abandoned the family when she left. But now she is back hoping that, somehow, she can rebuild the house and her life.

Carson, a rancher, one of five brothers, is a widower with a young son, Evan. Years ago, Carson had a relationship with Annie, before she kept her promise to get away from Montana. He doesn’t know what brought her back and resulted in her working as a waitress at a favorite eatery. But he doesn’t need to be drawn in by a woman who doesn’t want to stay in Montana.

Neither of these characters are really looking for romance. It appears they may have a second chance at love, with the approval of a sweet son and a town that hopes they both find happiness.

I enjoyed these characters, and the writing was fine. I liked the description and plot even though there was a little repetition in the conflict issues. 4.5.

"Christmas at Copper Mountain" by Jane Porter.
Harley lost her husband and three children to a tragic plane crash. She is still trying to recover her footing several years later. Rather than face Christmas with her family, she chose to take a temporary housekeeper position with Montana rancher, widower, Brock Sheenan. She understands that he is hard working and pretty reclusive, which suits her fine. The ranch crew are happy with her cooking and care.

She is settling into the routine of cooking for Brock and his crew, when Brock chooses to go out late one stormy night to find lost cattle. Concerned Harley is concerned and then shocked when a knock at the door reveals two young children who have returned early and unexpectedly from boarding school.

Harley didn’t bargain for children and wants to get away, as soon as she can get a replacement. Brock is annoyed and disgusted thinking she doesn’t like kids, especially when she seems set on telling him he isn’t listening to his kids and isn’t allowing them to be kids and enjoy the holiday.

The lack of communication between these characters is frustrating. I was glad they finally saw the potential of a future together. 4.0.

"Home for Christmas" by Melissa McClone.
Rachel has agreed to visit her brother who is a foreman on a ranch in Montana at a time when she needs to escape having her dreams pulled out from under her by a supposed business partner. She is thrilled to discover the ranch house has a state of the art kitchen and jumps right in making her delicious ginger bread and unique ginger bread building designs.

Ranch owner Nate is surprised to find yummy treats in his kitchen and then he meets the beautiful woman creating these masterpieces. He immediately orders one of his own ranch. Then he sets out to work his entrepreneurial skills by directing Rachel on how to promote her business, including encouraging her to open a local shop.

Based on her recent experience, Rachel is quick to distrust Nate’s intentions. Can she overcome her distrust to accept help from Nate? Can Nate get out of business mode long enough to share his personal feelings with Rachel?

As much as I liked these characters too, it was another instance of lack of clear communication combined with unreasonable distrust. I wasn’t pleased with Rachel’s lack of self confidence and her swing to the total distrust realm. I was glad for their final HEA. 4.25.

"Mistletoe Magic" by Melissa McClone.
Caitlin is home in Marietta house sitting and reading books. She expects a very quiet Christmas. She discovers an abandoned, half frozen kitten in the snow. When she takes the kitten to the vet for attention she is shocked to discover her college crush, Noah, is the vet.

Noah remembers Caitlin from college but he could never find her after he walked away to concentrate on his school work to become a veterinarian. He doesn’t want to let her slip away again. This is another sweet, second chance romance that is an easy listen. 4.25.

Audio Notes: Loretta Rawlins does a lovely job with the narration. She provides distinct voices and personality traits. I am very glad to have the opportunity to listen to this collection.

Source: 11/7/22 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2022Audiobook goal.

Audio Book Review: The Clause in Christmas by Rachael Bloome

This is a delightful Christmas story sharing new and hopeful beginnings!
The Clause in Christmas
by Rachael Bloome
Read by E.L. Beckett

Run Time 8h 15min
Release Date: January 6, 2020
Publisher: Secret Garden Press
Genre: Christmas, Contemporary, Romance
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 5.0; Narration 5.0.

Publisher Description
An unexpected inheritance. A pesky clause in the will. And 25 days to avoid falling in love…
Cassie Hayward hates Christmas. Especially this year.
No job. Flat broke. And an ex most definitely on the naughty list.
The unexpected inheritance of a charming Victorian cottage in the small town of Poppy Creek may be the Christmas miracle Cassie needs.
Except for one itty-bitty problem: a clause in the will.
To inherit the house, Cassie must complete a series of festive tasks every day in December leading up to Christmas. All overseen by the handsome, Christmas-loving lawyer Luke Davis.
Luke is as strong and steady as the bespoke furniture he crafts as a hobby. He has to be. Stepping into his late father’s shoes as the town lawyer comes with a sleigh full of responsibilities. Which means the captivating stranger collecting her inheritance is a distraction he can’t afford.
As the unlikely pair complete the daily tasks, their hearts begin to soften. But will the wounds from their pasts—and an unexpected visitor—steal what little hope they have left?
Find out in this heartwarming holiday romance.

Review:
Cassie hasn’t had a good year and she isn’t looking forward to a joyful Christmas season. She had never celebrated Christmas with her mother who ‘raised’ her. Raised is a stretch since her mother is an alcoholic who was able to provide a roof over their heads but let Cassie mostly handle the home chores. Cassie’s only hope this year is the unexpected inheritance of a Victorian cottage from her maternal grandmother. She hopes she can sell it quickly and get back to her tiny apartment in San Francisco.

Cassie meets the handsome, small-town attorney, Luke, who tells her that there in a clause in the will that conditions her inheritance on her fulfilling her grandmother’s Christmas Calendar of activities. Luke will oversee the tasks which is no problem for him since he loves Christmas as do most of the folks in Poppy Creek. It starts as a problem for Cassie, especially as she struggles to get a good cup of coffee in town.

Luke took over his father’s law practice and no one knows that he’d much rather craft hand made furniture. As he watches the Christmas Calendar activities change Cassie’s attitude, he contemplates whether he should make some changes in his own life. And the whole town is surprised when Cassie changes the life of one recluse as she tries to get good coffee from him.

I was charmed by the calendar activities and Luke’s consistent optimism. He shares simple joy in life. The town people rally around Cassie and offer her support and enthusiasm, especially Luke’s mother and sister. The coffee expert is a wonderful addition. I loved how the story moves long to recognize the dreams of several of the characters. I want to read more in this series. I recommend this to readers who enjoy small town romance and all things Christmas (and coffee too).

Audio Notes: E.L. Beckett does a spot on job with the narration. She brings the text to life with the emotions of the characters. I enjoyed the audio experience.

Source: 12/16/2021 purchase at Chirp for $1.99. This qualifies for 2022TBR and 2022Audiobook goals.

#NetGalley Audio Book Review: Lovelight Farms by B.K. Borison

This is a sweet, light, friends to lovers romance.
Lovelight Farms
By: B.K. Borison
Narrated by: Pippa Jayne

Series: Lovelight, Book 1
Length: 10 hrs and 15 mins
Release date: 09-20-22
Publisher: Dreamscape Media, LLC
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
A pasture of dead trees, a hostile takeover of the Santa barn by a family of raccoons, and shipments that have mysteriously gone missing—Lovelight Farms is not the magical winter wonderland of Stella Bloom’s dreams.
In an effort to save the Christmas tree farm she’s loved since she was a kid, she enters a contest with instafamous influencer Evelyn St. James. With the added publicity and the $100,000 cash prize, she might just be able to save the farm from its financial woes. There’s just one problem. To make the farm seem like a romantic destination for the holidays, she lied on the application and said she owns Lovelight Farms with her boyfriend. Only there is no boyfriend.
Enter her best friend Luka Peters. He just came home for some hot chocolate, and somehow got a farm and a serious girlfriend in the process.
Lovelight Farms is a romantic comedy featuring a handsome freckled data analyst, a messy, optimistic Christmas-tree-farm owner, and a small town with the best hazelnut lattes on the east coast.
This sweet and steamy romance is a holiday happily ever after and the first book in a series of interconnected standalones following the three Lovelight owners.
©2021 B.K. Borison (P)2022 Dreamscape Media, LLC

Review:
Stella’s left the normal work world to pursue her dream of creating a magical winter wonderland at her Christmas tree farm, Lovelight Farms. She has invested all of her savings and would feel like things would be okay except for a run of bad happenings. Fencing is collapsing, one whole section of trees is dead, a family of raccoons seems to have taken over the barn, and a shipment of fertilizer keeps going astray. As a means to revive the tree farm, she enters a contest with a famous travel spot influencer to promote the farm as a romantic destination for the holiday. The publicity and $100,000.00 prize would be a great boon for her situation. The only issue is that she lied on the application saying the farm was co-owned with her boyfriend. But Stella doesn’t have a boyfriend.

Since the influencer, Evelyn St. James, is showing up soon to check out the farm, Stella has to come up with a serious boyfriend. Fortunately, her best friend, Luka Peters, comes in from out of town and agrees to play the part. Stella immediately begins taking walks with Luka so the townsfolk can see them together and get the picture they are serious.

Luka and Stella have been best friends since being childhood neighbors. It is clear to everyone, including the reader, that they have great affection for each other. But, having had a father walk out on her when she was young and a mother who bounced from relationship to relationship, Stella has always held men at a distance. She has been determined not to mess up her friendship with Luka by having a sexual relationship with him.

Luka has always cared for Stella but has not known how to show her how he truly feels. He doesn’t want to risk their friendship either, but he may not be able to continue without revealing his feelings.

Matters get more complicated as Evelyn arrives and loves the farm but suspects a problem. Then it becomes clear that the incidents of damage have not been accidental but have been sabotage. Luka may find it easier to help the town sheriff stop the harassment than getting Stella to acknowledge the feelings between them.

I did enjoy this sweet romance but got annoyed by Stella’s lack of courage. She seems totally blind to how much Luka, and her friends, love her and want to help. Someone really needed to wake her up! Luka was a great character and Stella had friends who were supportive too, especially once she let them in. I recommend this to reader who enjoy friends to lovers stories. And the Christmas magic is an extra bonus.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by Pippa Jayne. Her voice fit the story and the character of Stella perfectly. She didn’t do as well on the male voices but it didn’t hurt the story. The narration added to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 2022 NetGalley. This qualifies for my 2022NetGalley goal.

Audible Book Review: Christmas Every Day by Beth Moran

I enjoyed this sweet, light romance.
Christmas Every Day
By: Beth Moran
Narrated by: Helen Keeley

Length: 10 hrs and 27 mins
Release date: 09-17-19
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
When Jenny inherits her estranged grandmother’s cottage in Sherwood Forest, she has nothing to lose - no money, no job, no friends, no family to speak of, and zero self-respect. Things can only get better....
Her grumpy but decidedly handsome new neighbour, Mack, has a habit of bestowing unsolicited good deeds on her. And when Jenny is welcomed into a rather unusual book club, life seems to finally be getting more interesting.
Instead of reading, the members pledge to complete individual challenges before Christmas: from finding new love and learning to bake to completing a daredevil bucket list. Jenny can’t resist joining in, and soon a year of friendship and laughter, tears and regrets unfolds in the most unexpected ways.
Warm, wise, funny and utterly uplifting. What one thing would you change in your life before Christmas comes around?
©2019 Beth Moran (P)2019 Boldwood Books Ltd

Review:
Jenny has suffered a major blow to her heart in an embarrassing reveal when her secret beau proposes publicly to her sister. Her mother tells her of her grandmother’s cottage in Sherwood Forest. Jenny sets off with the goal of starting a new life where she depends on no one but herself. She just had no idea that the cottage had been abandoned since her grandmother’s death and is in deplorable condition. But first she has to get into the dwelling. A gruff, handsome man, her neighbor, Mack, challenges her before offering help once he knows who she is and sees she is basically stranded. Jenny wants no help and is annoyed, but reluctantly grateful for her reclusive neighbor’s good deeds behind her back.

Jenny is determined. She finds a part time job at a local diner – no pay but food. Then she gets another job as a ‘nanny’ to five children who have driven away former nannies. For the first time in her life, Jenny is making friends and learning how to live on her own. She joins a local book group that fights over books to read. They decide to challenge themselves to a project to complete before Christmas.

Meanwhile, a local realtor is pressuring Jenny to sell the dilapidated cottage, and someone is trying to scare her away. First it is just a chase through the woods but then things escalate. Mack keeps trying to help Jenny in small ways. Mack has even agreed to be her escort to attend her sister’s wedding to her former boss. Jenny might be tempted to lean on their friendship until she learns that Mack is married and will be bringing his spouse back to the forest soon.

Things get jumbled with lack of forthright communication that leads to hidden and mistaken identities. Jenny struggles with her self-image and self-worth, not realizing her own strengths. I liked the numerous characters who come along to encourage Jenny. The repartee is quick and sweet, and Christmas gets to play a part in Jenny’s new life. I appreciated the growth as friends and minimal sexual content. I would like to read/listen to more by this author and I recommend this to fans of romantic comedy.

Audio Notes: Helen Keeley does a fine job with the narration and the British accent was fun. There are numerous characters and, for the most part, she was able to provide distinct voices. The narration added to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: October 2021 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2022TBR and 2022Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: The Plus One Pact by Portia MacIntosh

This is a sweet story with conflict from miscommunications.

The Plus One Pact
By: Portia MacIntosh
Narrated by: Karen Cass

Length: 7 hrs and 38 mins
Release date: 05-21-20
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
What if your plus one could be the one?
Cara has officially run out of men. Her most recent dates have gone from bad to worse, and when her dating app informs her there is no one left in her area to choose from, she is at a dead end.
But with a summer of events ahead of her, she needs to find a solution, fast; someone to keep her company at the never-ending weddings, family gatherings and gender-reveal parties that she can’t face going to alone. So when she meets handsome, confident, Millsy on a night out, she may be in luck. They could not be more different in personality, but he, too, has a summer of events ahead and is desperate to get his family off his back about finding a ‘nice girl’. What if they made a pact to help each other out and be a plus one for the summer? Just as friends of course?
A brand-new romantic comedy from best seller Portia MacIntosh, perfect for fans of Zara Stoneley, Sophie Ranald and Mhairi McFarlane.
©2020 Portia MacIntosh (P)2020 Boldwood Books

Review:
Cara is getting low on the available men on her dating app. After she escapes from a ‘babysitting” date, Cara is at the bar waiting to meet the latest man…who doesn’t show up. Instead, a handsome man steps over to offer to sit with her so she doesn’t have to continue to sit alone. Although a little wary, Cara and Millsy seem to be immediately comfortable with each other. She has given up on men and Millsy is reportedly a ‘player’ who is willing to just be there as a friend for Cara.

Millsy takes Cara out for a makeover and slowly her confidence begins to grow. They agree to be each other’s ‘plus one’ for the summer events especially his best (girl) friend’s wedding and her cousin’s wedding where she refused to be a bridesmaid in a dress that they wouldn’t allow her to alter to fit and where her former boyfriend is expected as a special guest.

Their friendship is moving along really well and Millsy even provides a spare room to live in when Cara’s replacement apartment falls through. Then they get to the awkward moments, without an agreed plan, of “how did you meet?”, “how long have you been dating?”. There are more concerns when meeting each other’s family and Cara is pursued by Millsy nemesis, his handsome brother.

This is a fun romantic comedy. There is easy camaraderie and fun, light conflict. Although there is a bit of sexual references on the side, there is no actual engagement until late in the story. I appreciated the style and lightness of the story. I recommend this to fans of light romantic comedy.

Audio Notes: Karen Cass does a good job with the narration. I am she manages different voices to distinguish the characters, most of which are British. The narration enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 2/19/2022 Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2022Audiobook goal.

Audible Book Review: The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher

This is an interesting Amish romance story with a complication of heart decease.
The Keeper
A Novel
By: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Narrated by: Amy Rubinate

Series: Stoney Ridge Seasons, Book 1
Length: 9 hrs and 4 mins
Release date: 01-02-12
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Amish, Contemporary, Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

Publisher's Summary
Life on Windmill Farm hasn’t been the same since Julia Lapp’s father has had trouble with his heart. But that doesn’t stop Julia from hoping for a bright future. She has planned on marrying Paul Fisher since she was a girl. Now twenty-one, she looks forward to their wedding with giddy anticipation. But when Paul tells her he wants to postpone the wedding - again - she is determined to change his mind. She knows who is to blame for Paul’s sudden reluctance to wed: the Bee Man. Roman Troyer, the Bee Man, travels through the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania with his hives full of bees, renting them out to farmers in need of pollinators. A mysterious man who relishes his nomadic life, Roman especially enjoys bringing his bees to Stoney Ridge each year. But with Julia seriously at odds with him, Windmill Farm is looking decidedly less appealing.
Can Julia secure the future she’s always dreamed of? Or does God have something else in mind?
©2012 Suzanne Woods Fisher (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Julia Lapp, her younger sisters and younger brother have been struggling since their father suffered a heart attack. His strength and breathing are not recovering but his believes have made him refuse to be put on the waiting list for a heart transplant. Julia’s younger brother is a strong, sweet adolescent with learning disabilities. It is clear he will not be able to run the farm for the family without help.

The children’s uncle arrives to help, but he brings his own brand of openness. This causes some dismay in the community, especially with the mother of Julia’s intended fiancé, Paul. Paul had postponed their marriage a year ago but now Julia is busy making plans for their wedding in November. Julia is distressed and hurt when Paul calls the wedding off again. Julia believes that Paul has been influenced not only by his mother, but by the Bee Man, Roman Troyer.

Roman is a wanderer who moves his bees from community to community. He is a kind man, but suffered loss in his youth and has keeps himself emotionally apart from others. He developed a friendship with Mr. Lapp and cares about the struggles the family is experiencing. Roman decides to stay and help the Lapps even though Julia is annoyed with him and doesn’t fancy him like most young ladies.

Mr. Lapp’s condition deteriorates and Roman and Julia try to convince him to agree to accept a heart transplant. A soft friendship begins to develop between Roman and Julia as they work together. The story progresses as the reader wonders if the family can hold on to the farm and whether Julia and Paul will get back together.

I enjoyed the distinct characters and the unique aspects of the beekeeper. I also learning information about congestive heart failure that helped me to better understand my husband’s failing condition. The medical issue provides a different conflict which added to the story interest. I recommend this to fans of gentle Amish romance.

Audio Notes: Amy Rubinate does a very nice job with the narration. She provides clear voices and gentle emotions. I am glad I had this to listen to.

Source: 4/18/17 Audible Sale $5.95. This qualifies for 2022TBR, 2022Audiobook, and 2022Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Eight Winter Nights by Liz Maverick

I enjoyed this quick, sweet romance.

Eight Winter Nights
By: Liz Maverick
Narrated by: Eva Kaminsky , Jason Clarke

Length: 2 hrs and 55 mins
Original Recording Audiobook
Release date: 11-24-20 Publisher: Audible Originals
Categories: Contemporary, Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.0.

About This Audible Original
Cozy up with this warm, festive rom com novella about being true to your heart, the friendships that define us, and the irresistible pull of holiday magic.
Last year, Rachel Bacharach met the man of her dreams at a Hanukkah party—and then her outgoing best friend Tamara swooped in and "called" Oz Caplan for herself. It’s a typical outcome for the dependable, bookish Rachel, who is never able to extinguish the spark she immediately felt for Oz. But being secretly in love with her best friend’s boyfriend all year hasn’t been easy.
As this year’s party approaches, Oz and Tamara break up. It’s a worst-case scenario when Oz asks Rachel to help him write Tamara love letters to win her back in time for their Hanukkah anniversary. Rachel’s been writing love letters to Oz in her journals for a year; she knows all the words he would need. But will Rachel be able to hide her true feelings from Oz any longer? And might this year’s party finally be Rachel’s chance to trust her heart and put everything on the line for love?
©2020 Liz Maverick (P)2020 Audible Originals, LLC.

Review:
Smart and attractive Rachel has always deferred to her stunning and vivacious best friend, Tamara. One year at the traditional Hanukkah party Rachel met Oz. There was immediate zing between them for a handful of minutes until Tamara appeared. Rachel stepped aside and Oz became Tamara’s new squeeze.

Rachel has continued her secret crush for a year and is shocked when Oz and Tamara break up. Tamara goes on a planned holiday vacation alone while directing Rachel to take care of Oz who is in a leg cast. Granted, Oz and Rachel are close friends too, but the request and situation are awkward. It gets worse when Oz declares that he wants to win Rachel back and he needs Rachel’s romantic assistance to accomplish the task. Can Rachel help Oz without revealing her true feelings while also staying loyal to Tamara who might want to get back with Oz?

This is a (mostly) cute, quick listen story. I say mostly because I did have trouble with Tamara’s self-centered character. But I liked the warm relationship between Rachel and Oz and how Rachel handled the dilemma. Her family (full of stereotypes) and friends are good additions. The story was well developed for a short read. It would be a great holiday read but I enjoyed it even though a month or so late. I recommend this to fans of light romance, especially good for the holiday season.

Audio Notes: Eva Kaminsky and Jason Clarke do a nice job with the alternate voices. They give fitting life to the characters and make this an easy listen. I appreciate having this as a free, plus audio.

Source: 2020 Audible Plus. This qualifies for 2022TBR, 2022Audiobook, and 2022Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: The Monster Hunter Files Anthology by Larry Correia, Jim Butcher, Faith Hunter and more

I enjoyed this collection of stories full of monsters and snark.
The Monster Hunter Files
By: Larry Correia, Jim Butcher, Faith Hunter, Jonathan Maberry and others
Narrated by: Oliver Wyman, Khristine Hvam, Bailey Carr
Series: Monster Hunter
Length: 13 hrs and 50 mins
Release date: 10-03-17
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Anthologies & Short Stories, Contemporary, Paranormal, Urban
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's Summary
For well over a century, Monster Hunter International has kept the world safe from supernatural threats small and large - and, in some cases, very, very large. Now, join us as MHI opens their archives for the first time. From experienced hunters on their toughest cases to total newbies' initial encounters with the supernatural, The Monster Hunter Files reveals the secret history of the world's most elite monster fighting force.
Discover what happened when Agent Franks took on the Nazis in World War II. Uncover how the Vatican's Combat Exorcists deal with Old Ones in Mexico. And find out exactly what takes place in a turf war between trailer park elves and gnomes. From the most powerful of mystical beings to MHI's humble janitor, see the world of professional monster hunting like never before.
Featuring 17 all new tales based on Larry Correia's best-selling series, from New York Times best-selling authors Jim Butcher, John Ringo, Jessica Day George, Jonathan Maberry, Faith Hunter, and many more.
Also includes stories by Larry Correia, John C. Wright, Jody Lynn Nye, Mike Kupari, and Brad R. Torgersen.
©2017 Larry Correia. All stories 2017 by Larry Correia, except "She Bitch, Killer of Kits" 2017 by Larry Correia and Faith Hunter. (P)2017 Audible, Inc.

Review:
I enjoy the Monster Hunter International (MHI) characters, and this is a fun collection that focuses on side stories for several of the well-known characters. There are stories of Julie Stackleford’s childhood, her husband’s, Owen’s, current day, and Franks facing a major threat in WWII. There are also some new monsters and hunters I would like to read more about in the future.

Another fun thing about this collection is that there are so many authors who brought their talents to share in the MHI universe. I honestly can’t say that I recognized distinct author voices because they blended so well with the world of MHI.

There are 17 stories making for quick listens. My top picked stories include:
• Thistle by Larry Correia (I hope to see this character in future stories.)
• Small Problems by Jim Butcher (Even janitors can be successful hunters.)
• Sons of the Father by Quincy Allen (These sons may not have met their hunter father before his death but they sure got his skills.)
• A Knight of the Enchanted Forest by Jessica Day George (Light, fun turf war between elves and gnomes.)
• Huffman Strikes Back -by Bryan Thomas Schmidt & Julie Frost (Revenge sought against one of the top MHI hunters.)
• The Gift by Steve Diamond (A Secret Order of Vatican's Combat Exorcists

I recommend this book for MHI fans that need a hunter fix (like me). And readers who enjoy monsters and heroes would like this too.

Audio Notes: Oliver Wyman, Bailey Carr, Khristine Hvam did a great job sharing the fun. Wyman is the usual narrator for the MHI series and I love returning to his voice for so many of the characters. The other narrators added to vary the tone and provide more female voices which enhanced my listening engagement.

Source: Audible Daily Deal 4/24/2018 $4.95. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021Audiobook goals.

Audio Book Review: You Dropped a Blonde On Me by Dakota Cassidy

This is a fun, easy romance.

You Dropped a Blonde On Me
Written By: Dakota Cassidy
Narrated By: Hollie Jackson

Publisher: Tantor Media
Date: June 2020
Duration: 11 hours 53 minutes
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.0; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
She was the perfect party-planning, haute-to-the max trophy wife. Now Maxine Cambridge is broke, unemployable, and living with her mother and teenage son in a retirement village, with her self-esteem kicked to the curb.
Until her geeky former classmate Campbell Barker returns, all grown-up and off-the-scale smokin' hot. Campbell refuses to believe Max isn't that smart, funny girl he's crushed on since high school. The more Max tries to show him he's wrong, the more she rediscovers her long-retired mojo. Now, she's ready to throw down some payback on her ex-life and fight for what she deserves....
Contains mature themes.
©2020 Dakota Cassidy (P)2020 Tantor

Review:
Maxine married an older, wealthy man, at age twenty and now, twenty years later, her cheating husband is ready for another age twenty (or younger)-year old. And the arrogant “B” is giving her nothing, not even the clothes, or shoes in her closet! He is even depriving their teenaged son, Connor.

Max and Connor are living in a retirement village with Max’s mother while Max tries to get a job. Max is begging for a job at a local fast food shop when a hunky man walks in and tries to rescue her. The man turns out to be a once geeky, former classmate, Campbell. Campbell tries continually to encourage Max who is totally down on herself.

Max is actually a fun character especially once she gets beyond her lack of confidence. It is sad to see what can happen when a woman makes herself a servient mat to her husband. But Max comes out of her shell when she starts working with the elderly people in the village and she finally confronts her soon to be ex when she fights for Connor. I loved Campbell’s attitude and he deserves a lot of credit for his patience. It is fun to watch the progression and root for Max and Campbell to get together.

The dialog, including Max’s internal dialog, includes some funny phrases. There are a couple of strong sexual scenes and a little bit of language. I have some additional books by Ms. Cassidy which I will have to try soon. I recommend this to romance fans who enjoy humor and more mature characters.

Audio Notes: Hollie Jackson does a really good job on the narration. She provides good voices and energy for Max and the other characters. I enjoyed the audio and would like to hear more of Jackson’s narration.

Source: 8/2020 Two for One Credit Deal at Audiobooks.com This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook and 2021Alphabet Audio goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Spring Skies Over Bluebell Castle:(Bluebell Castle, Book 1) by Sarah Bennett

This is a delightful, easy romance.

Spring Skies Over Bluebell Castle:(Bluebell Castle, Book 1)
by Sarah Bennett

File Size: 1975 KB
Print Length: 229 pages
Publisher: HQ Digital (April 1, 2019)
ASIN: B07FLK5G7D
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Sweet Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

She wasn’t looking for love…
When Lucie Kennington flees the bright lights of London for the quiet Derbyshire countryside, she’s shocked to discover that the heir to the Bluebell Castle estate is far from the wizened employer she expected.
In fact, Arthur Ludworth might just be the most handsome man Lucie’s ever laid eyes on – and a terrible distraction! So when she stumbles across a legendary painting feared lost for centuries, she can’t believe her luck – perhaps this is the hidden treasure to save Arthur and his family from ruin?
But it’s only a matter of time before Lucie’s past catches up with her and by then it’s too late, she’s falling for him…

Review:
Lucie is an art specialist working at a well-known art auction. She made a lucky find of an original piece but when it is unveiled at the auction Lucie and another associate know that a fake has been substituted for the original. Lucie is targeted as the guilty party and she is put on leave. Her initial reaction is to crawl under the covers. But her mother convinces her she has to continue to live and she earn money to pay the rent. Lucie answers an ad for an art expert to catalog everything in a Derbyshire country castle.

“Sir” Arthur became the head of his family when their father died. He is aware that the state of the finances are precarious and may require sale of items or opening the castle to tours. Arthur hires an expert but neither Arthur nor Lucie expected the other to be attractive, charming and engaging.

The family’s predecessor was clearly influenced by the Arthurian Court as the current occupants include Arthur’s twin brother, Tristan, their twin sister Igraine (Iggy), their uncle Lancelot and great-aunt Morgana. Lucie is awed by the castle and the history. Among the art pieces Lucie finds a small miniature that leads to a treasure hunt. The diaries hint that there may have been an important work of art if only they can find it…maybe in the secret tunnels that haven’t been found for more than a hundred years.

Of course, Lucie and Arthur try to avoid the attraction to each other… until they can’t. But what is going to happen when Arthur and the family learn that Lucie is under investigation for art fraud?

This is a nice, sweet romance. I enjoyed the pleasant characters and the gentle development of the romance. I was annoyed by Lucie’s whining and hiding at first so I was glad when she moved forward. I enjoy Arthurian elements and treasure hunts, so I enjoyed the plot which is enhanced by the touch of zany and light humor. I can recommend this to readers who enjoy sweet contemporary romance (and a touch of Camelot).

Source: 2019 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019NetGalley goal.

Audio Book Review: Back in the Saddle: A Novel (Double S Ranch Series, Book #1) by Ruth Logan Herne

I totally enjoyed this inspirational, contemporary western romance.
Back in the Saddle: A Novel (Double S Ranch Series, Book #1)
by Ruth Logan Herne
Narrator Anna Salinas
Runtime 9.25 Hrs. - Unabridged
Publisher Recorded Books
Downloads ZIP M4B MP3
Release Date February 15, 2017
Genre: Christian, Contemporary, Romance, Western
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Story and Narration.

Here comes a captivating western romance and family-centered drama with a heart of gold, featuring plenty of cowboys and family drama, from prolific author and networker Ruth Logan Herne. Colt Stafford's winner-take-all personality clashed with his father's similar temperament and led Colt to pursue his own success far from the Double S ranch. The opportunity came in private equities once he earned his way to a desk on Wall Street. But timing is everything and Colt's financial demise coincided with his father's illness. God's perfect timing doesn't always seem all that perfect, but Colt needed a job, the Double S needed Colt and Sam sent his prodigal son a ticket. and Colt came home. He rediscovers his love for ranching, for Washington and for the great outdoors. His father's change of heart seems surreal, and by the time Colt realizes he belongs with his family, he's lost his heart to a Latina cop whose gone undercover to protect her child and her mother. Through the accidents of timing, God has brought multiple facets together at the Double S, just in time for healing, hope and home.

Review:
Colt was raised on a ranch by his father, Sam, who had a strong take control attitude. As a young man they began to clash so Colt headed off to the city to make his own brand of success. He was doing great at private equities until a situation lost him his career and savings. He headed home to try to help with his father’s illness. Colt is surprised when he arrives to find Sam’s attitude has softened.

Colt’s first meeting with Angelina is at the end of a gun. It is rather strange behavior for a housekeeper but Colt is quick to learn that Angelina has secrets. At least Angelina’s tough love and trust God philosophy is helping Sam to seek a relationship with God and with his estranged son.

Colt and Angelina are doing the clashing now with Angelina inclined to think Colt is a city slicker who will be heading back to the bright lights as soon as he can. Colt thinks Angelina is bossy and antagonistic and he is determined to uncover the secret she is hiding.

I really enjoyed this from beginning to end. Ms. Herne shares thoughts from the characters which makes them very real. She also unabashedly shares Godly themes - resistance (prodigal) to redemption to reliance - which I greatly appreciated. There is good chemistry between Colt and Angelina and the secondary characters (including Sam, Angelina’s adorable son, Noah, and her dedicated mother) add more depth and richness. There are family issues and a touch of suspense and danger.

There is strong description and easy flow to the writing. I have read Ruth Logan stories years ago and always like them. I have to add more of her to my reading. I recommend this to readers who enjoy heartwarming family interaction, sweet romance and Christian themes.

Audio Notes: Anna Salinas does a fine job with the narration as her voice fit the tone of the story. She doesn’t give strong voice changes but enough to distinguish plus she manages the pacing well to reflect appropriately the aside thoughts. The narration added to my enjoyment of the story.

Source: Audiobook.com 2017 Sale Purchase. This qualifies for Audiobook Challenge.

Audible Book Review: The Search by Nora Roberts

This is solid romantic suspense with the bonus of dog training tips.

The Search
By: Nora Roberts
Narrated by: Tanya Eby

Length: 14 hrs and 53 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 07-06-10
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
To most people, Fiona Bristow seems to have an idyllic life: a quaint house on an island off Seattle’s coast, a thriving dog-training school, and a challenging volunteer job performing canine search and rescue. Not to mention her three intensely loyal Labs. But Fiona got to this point by surviving a nightmare.
Several years ago, she was the only survivor of a serial killer - a madman who stalked and abducted young women, strangled them, and left them buried with a red scarf on their bodies. As authorities were closing in on the Red Scarf Killer, he shot and killed Fiona’s cop fiancé and his K-9 partner.
On Orcas Island, Fiona has found the peace and solitude she needed to rebuild her life. Yet all that changes on the day Simon Doyle barrels up her drive, desperate for her help. He’s the reluctant owner of an out-of-control puppy, foisted upon him by his mother. Jaws has eaten through Simon’s house, and he’s at his wit’s end.
To Fiona, Jaws is nothing she can’t handle. Simon is another matter. A newcomer to Orcas, he’s a rugged and intensely private artist, known for creating exquisite furniture. Simon never wanted a puppy, and he most definitely doesn’t want a woman. Besides, the lanky redhead is not his type. But tell that to the laws of attraction.
As Fiona embarks on training Jaws and as Simon begins to appreciate both dog and trainer, the past tears back into Fiona’s life. A copycat killer has emerged out of the shadows, a man whose bloodlust has been channeled by a master with one motive: to reclaim the woman who slipped out of his hands.
©2010 Nora Roberts (P)2010 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Fiona escaped from a serial killer several years ago. Fiona's experience from the past has shaped who she is today - fiercely independent and determined not to be a victim again. She has a successful business training dogs…and their owners. She is also an important leader in the local search and rescue team.

Simon is an interesting male protagonist. His mother gave him a puppy and he, or really they, need serious help. He is very singular, insular... until love sneaks up on him. There is good involvement with the dog training which fills a lot of the story.

This is solid romantic suspense The suspense with the serial killer is almost almost secondary to the romantic development. Of course the danger sets Simon into a protective mode even as he begins reluctantly.

There are a couple of rescue searches that add to the depth of the story. The story moves at a good pace with good blending of the dog training techniques, romantic tension and underlying danger. There is more of the "f" word than I like but I was able to skip over it for the most part.

Nora Roberts is pretty reliable as an author delivering strong characters and romance with good tension. I recommend this to readers who like dog training and romantic suspense.

Audio Notes: Tanya Eby's narration isn't the best that I have heard. It is a little soft and has a sort of choppy delivery. After awhile I got used to it and fortunately the story carried the presentation.

Source: 2012 Audible Credit Purchase. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenge.

Book Review: The Billionaire's Sweet Valentine (Holiday Contest) by Laura L. Walker

This is a charming, clean romance – lovely for a Valentine or anytime romance read.

The Billionaire's Sweet Valentine (Holiday Contest)
by Laura L. Walker

File Size: 1402 KB
Print Length: 191 pages
Publication Date: January 18, 2018
ASIN: B0794PGVBK
Genre: Holiday, Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

When a Valentine's Day contest for Arizona's Cutest Couple throws two romance-challenged friends together, can they survive a fake engagement and win the prize?
All Penny Merrill wants to do is run her own sweet shop in ritzy Scottsdale, Arizona, but her money-hungry mother and conniving stepfather are making it nearly impossible to keep her dream alive. When Penny finds an advertisement for a Valentine’s Day contest for Arizona’s Cutest Couple, with the winnings being enough to enable her to hold on to her floundering business, she comes up with an idea that might just work—if she can find the right man for the job.
Commercial contractor Preston Ames is starting to develop feelings for Penny, and even though he’s been through enough heartache to know that he should avoid her at all costs, he can’t keep himself from visiting her sweet shop every day. When Penny asks him to participate in a crazy scheme so that she can overturn her stepfather’s underhanded business ploy, Preston hesitates, wanting to keep the fact that he’s a billionaire a secret. However, one look into her soulful blue eyes and he’s a goner.
Everything seems to be going well for Penny and Preston until they compete with another couple whose heartache transcends all of their misconceptions about love. When all is said and done, will they do the right thing and, in the process, discover a bond that is greater than they thought was even possible? Can just one picture turn Penny into Preston’s sweet Valentine? Find out in this clean and wholesome romance featuring a fun holiday contest!

Review:
Penny hasn’t had the easiest upraising with a single mother who went through one husband after another seeking riches. Now mom has married a rich man but for some reason they want to control her life. Penny broke out on her own and is struggling to give her sweet shop bakery a chance for success. When she learns of a Valentine’s Day Contest that has a $5,000.00 prize, she decides to be bold and ask Preston to pretend to be a couple with her.

Preston has been picking up treats at Penny’s shop for some time. He is a little reluctant to enter into a pretend relationship, but he really does want to help her. Preston has chosen to build his own business rather than just ride on his family money and he doesn’t want to explain to Penny his financial background. Instead he decides to enjoy the time with her as they become a couple for the contest.

Penny is facing more difficulties with her shop when she learns her step brother has become the new landlord and has moved in next door. Then some other troubles surface which are looking suspicious. Fortunately, Penny is enjoying her time with Preston and is glad to have him to lean on. She isn’t aware that Preston is investigating her problems in secret trying to determine what is going on.

I really liked this couple. Penny is full of optimism and determination. Preston has integrity and caring. It was sweet to watch their feelings for each other grow even as they tried to hide it. The other couples in the contest have different love stories that show love at various stages of life and through good times and struggles. The romance is sweet and clean and I found it charming. The storyline contest and touch of mystery flowed very smoothly and made for a nice, easy read.

I have to admit that I tend to avoid “billionaire” books. However, this one sounded like he wasn’t a pompous guy and it was a chance to read a Valentine story. I am glad I read this as it was a breath of fresh air and change of pace from some of the other things I have been reading. This is the second book I have read by Ms. Walker and I would be glad to read more. I recommend this to readers who enjoy a clean, sweet romance.

Note: Ms. Walker advised that she generally writes in the Christian genre. Although this is a sweet, clean novel, she has added Christian elements to the final version. I know I would have enjoyed those elements just fine.

Source: from the Author for review. This qualifies as a 2018 title for my Alphabet Reading Challenge.

Also see my review of Caitlyn's Christmas Wish by Laura L. Walker.

Book Review and Giveaway Link: Merry Mary by Ashley Farley

This presents a soft-hearted dilemma for an infant and a wanna-be mother.

Merry Mary
by Ashley Farley

• File Size: 930 KB
• Print Length: 92 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publisher: Leisure Time Books; 1 edition (October 15, 2015)
• ASIN: B01434AX6E
• Genre: Christmas Novella, Holidays
• My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

A young woman longing for a child stumbles upon a Christmas miracle.
Investigative journalist Scottie Darden is photographing the homeless for her Lost Souls series when she makes a discovery that could change her life forever. Under a makeshift tent in subzero temperatures in a downtown city park, she finds a woman's dead body with her infant child. Without her cell phone to call for help, Scottie makes the split-second decision to take the baby home. Her initial instinct is to provide the baby with food and shelter until her family can be located. But as her fondness for the baby grows, she finds herself facing a life on the run or worse—prison time for abduction.
Curl up with Merry Mary this holiday season. A heartwarming story of the powerful connection between a caring soul and an innocent child in need.

Review:
Scottie is a photojournalist who takes pictures of the homeless in the park. She plans to do a galley presentation of her “Lost Souls” images. One morning the week before Christmas, while delivering food to the homeless, Scottie finds a dead woman with a crying infant. She doesn’t have a cell phone and the Lost Souls all disappear. Scottie’s primary thought is to get the child to a warm spot, to clean and feed her, until family can be located.

Scottie is reluctant to turn the child over to services where she may end up in foster care. One day leads to another and a few days later one of the Lost Souls appears at Scottie’s home to check up on the child.

The police have found the body and located family. But Scottie is afraid that family will harm the baby. Scottie has her own reasons to be vulnerable about infants and now she has to decide if she will flee with Merry Mary or accept the responsibility for her actions.

I have mixed feelings about this story. I admit I cringed each time Scottie failed to report that she had found the child. I enjoyed how Scottie’s family, her ‘Irish Twin’ brother, her formal mother, and her lawyer father, all gather to help her even if they didn’t support her decisions. I loved Scottie’s compassion for the Lost Souls and especially for the infant. I disliked her leach of a husband - she deserves better.

The writing style is direct and easy to read. It moves well with a natural sense of events and dialogue. I was satisfied with the story’s ending and think that I might enjoy following Scottie in the next book. I recommend this to readers who are interested in a quick Christmas read that offers an interesting balance of compassion and realism.

I received this for review tour through Kim at the Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Link to Merry Mary Tour: http://wp.me/p3vHcl-if

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26122667-merry-mary

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Merry-Mary-Ashley-Farley-ebook/dp/B01434AX6E/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1445102083&sr=1-1

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/merry-mary-ashley-farley/1122576823?ean=2940152110548

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/merry-mary/id1033638269?mt=11

Kobo https://store.kobobooks.com/en-ca/ebook/merry-mary

About the Author:

Ashley Farley is a wife and mother of two college-aged children. She grew up in the salty marshes of South Carolina, but now lives in Richmond, Virginia, a city she loves for its history and traditions.

After her brother died in 1999 of an accidental overdose, she turned to writing as a way of releasing her pent-up emotions. She wrote SAVING BEN in honor of Neal, the boy she worshipped, the man she could not save. SAVING BEN is not a memoir, but a story about the special bond between siblings.

HER SISTER'S SHOES—June 24, 2015—is a women's novel that proves the healing power of family.

Look for MERRY MARY this holiday season, a heartwarming story of the powerful connection between a caring soul and an innocent child in need.

Author Links:

Website: http://www.ashleyfarley.net/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AshleyWFarley

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleywfarley

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6916019.Ashley_Farley

Excerpt from Merry Mary

    “Shh, don’t cry,” she said, rubbing the baby’s tummy.
    What would become of the baby? Scottie didn’t think the Commonwealth had the authority to place the baby up for adoption without permission of next of kin, which meant the baby would be placed in a foster home until the police could track down the father. If the father even wanted the child. If the father even knew he was the father.
    The baby began to wail, presumably with hunger. “Don’t worry, little one.” She picked the baby up and held her tight. “We’ll get it all sorted out. In the meantime, I have plenty of formula and diapers to keep you comfortable.”
    By the time Scottie got the baby inside, and mixed up a bottle from the supplies in her baby cabinet in the kitchen, the little girl was screaming, flailing her arms and legs in hunger. Scottie plopped down on the leather sofa in the adjoining family room, propped her snow boots up on the coffee table, and brought the bottle’s nipple to the baby’s mouth. The infant took the nipple between her lips, then thrust it back out with her tongue. Scottie turned the bottle upside down on her arm, letting a few drops of formula leak from the hole in the nipple, before returning the nipple to the baby’s lips. When she tasted the formula, the baby began to suck greedily.
    “Careful now, baby girl. Don’t drink too fast or you’ll upset your tummy.” The baby stared up at Scottie with bright eyes. “We need to give you a name, don’t we?”
    Scottie had been in the process of picking out names for her baby when her daughter was stillborn at thirty-one weeks. She’d been torn between Kate and Liza, after her grandmothers Katherine and Elizabeth. She ended up calling the baby Angel, which seemed appropriate for an innocent child who never drew her first breath.
    Scottie’s eyes traveled the room, coming to rest on the nativity scene on the mantle above the fireplace. “Why don’t we call you Mary after the Virgin Mary?” She caught sight of the needlepoint pillow Brad had brought down from the attic—a green background with Merry Christmas in curlicue script in red across the front. “Or Merry, which seems appropriate for a spunky little girl like you.”
    The baby stopped sucking and smiled up at her.
    “I agree,” Scottie said. “I like them both as well. Merry Mary it is, then.

Tour Giveaway:

Ashley is giving away $50 gift card (INT) choice of Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Paypal.
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Audible Book Review: Major Pettigrew's Last Stand: A Novel By Helen Simonson

This starts as a bit of drama but becomes a surprising charmer.
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand: A Novel
By Helen Simonson
Narrated By Peter Altschuler

    LENGTH    13 hrs and 8 mins
    RELEASE DATE    03-02-10
    PUBLISHER    Random House Audio
Genre: Drama, Fiction, Contemporary
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
You are about to travel to Edgecombe St. Mary, a small village in the English countryside filled with rolling hills, thatched cottages, and a cast of characters both hilariously original and as familiar as the members of your own family. Among them is Major Ernest Pettigrew (retired), the unlikely hero of Helen Simonson's wondrous debut. Wry, courtly, opinionated, and completely endearing, Major Pettigrew is one of the most indelible characters in contemporary fiction, and from the very first page of this remarkable novel he will steal your heart.

The Major leads a quiet life valuing the proper things that Englishmen have lived by for generations: honor, duty, decorum, and a properly brewed cup of tea. But then his brother's death sparks an unexpected friendship with Mrs. Jasmina Ali, the Pakistani shopkeeper from the village. Drawn together by their shared love of literature and the loss of their respective spouses, the Major and Mrs. Ali soon find their friendship blossoming into something more. But village society insists on embracing him as the quintessential local and her as the permanent foreigner. Can their relationship survive the risks one takes when pursuing happiness in the face of culture and tradition?
©2010 Helen Simonson (P)2010 Random House

Review:
Major Pettigrew is a retired English officer, living a quiet life as a widower in a small English village. He has settled into his routines, including maintaining some distance from the local women who would fuss over a well settled widower. Pettigrew is all that one thinks of in a proper, honorable, wry English gentleman. Life is pretty humdrum with the town struggling to remain cheerful and friendly as they cope with economic downturns and racial tensions.

Major Pettigrew gets a call that his younger brother has died unexpectedly and he finds himself in shock. He is upset when his ambitious son, Roger, claims he has an appointment but will try to make it to the funeral. Pettigrew is disturbed when Roger arrives late with a seemingly forward, young American woman.

Another serious issue strikes Pettigrew as he prepares to face his sister-in-law and her daughter at the funeral. When their father was dying he presented the boys with his treasured Churchill rifles. One was given to each with the verbal understanding that if anything happened to either brother the pair would be reunited and be held for the next generation. Pettigrew has always cherished the guns and tried to purchase the second gun from his brother a few times but was always refused. Although he is distressed at the loss of his brother he is anticipating reuniting the pair of guns until his son and his niece make it clear they want the pair sold for the highest price as quickly as possible.

While coping with the fog of grief Pettigrew finds a growing, gentle friendship with Mrs. Jasmina Ali, the widowed Pakistani shopkeeper. Mrs. Ali was actually born in England and has never been to Pakistan but she is clearly treated as a foreigner. Pettigrew begins to see that Mrs. Ali struggles with the restrictive expectations of her Pakistan in-laws as well as the prejudices that keep her set apart in the village. Pettigrew resents this on her behalf and begins to champion her situation.

When I started listening to this I wasn’t sure it was a book for me since I am not a big fan of family drama. However I am quite glad I pushed along because there is an irrepressible charm that infuses the Major and has the reader pulling for him and Jasmina to make things work out. The author manages to handle with dignity issues of family jealousies, and prejudice of race and age. She presents a charming story of older people falling in love and overcoming objections of family and outsiders.

There is warmth in description, a good flow and humor to the story. All little side currents are tied up nicely in the end. The story might not be for all readers but for those who enjoy a warm drama with life issues and humor, it should be a charming, enjoyable read or listen.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the primary British accent that perfectly suited the story. Peter Altschuler did a good job of presenting the various accents of the characters, not only nationalities (British, Pakistani and American) but conveying consequence and position too. I delighted in his ability to insert snorts and chuckles as fitted in the story.

This book was from my Audible Library. I had purchased it because of the charming cover and because I had read several positive reviews on other blogs.