#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.

Book Review: Indian Paintbrush (Carson Chronicles Book 3) by John A. Heldt

Wonderful historical details add to this time travel family drama/adventure.

Indian Paintbrush (Carson Chronicles Book 3)
by John A. Heldt

File Size: 645 KB
Print Length: 419 pages
Publication Date: November 26, 2018
Language: English
ASIN: B07KWHMRFW
Genre: Time Travel Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Arizona, December 1943. After surviving perilous six-month journeys to 1889 and 1918, the Carsons, five siblings from the present day, seek a respite in their home state. While Adam and Greg settle down with their Progressive Era brides, Natalie and Caitlin start romances with wartime aviators and Cody befriends a Japanese family in an internment camp. The time travelers regroup, bury some ghosts, and continue their search for their missing parents. Then old problems return, new ones emerge, and a peaceful hiatus becomes a race for survival. In INDIAN PAINTBRUSH, the sequel to RIVER RISING and THE MEMORY TREE, several young adults find love and adventure as they navigate the home front during the height of World War II.

Review:
This continues to time travel adventures of the Carson family. The Carson siblings, Adam and his pregnant wife, Bridget, Greg and his new wife Patricia, Natalie, and the twins, Cody and Caitlin, travel from 1918 to arrive in Arizona in December 1943. They move to Phoenix where they acquire jobs and make friends. Natalie and Caitlin work as mechanics at the airfield and begin romances with a pilot instructor and a pilot trainee respectfully. Cody’s job brings him to a Japanese family in an internment camp. He makes friends with a young woman and seeks a way to help her family.

Despite getting jobs, there are those who challenge the Carson men for not enlisting. There are also rumors spread to the FBI that raise questions about a Carson fugitive from 1889. This makes matters tense for the sibling family.

Meanwhile parents, Tim and Caroline, have tried to meet the children in 1943 but they arrive too early, September in Pennsylvania instead of December in Arizona. They visit some of the same ‘friends’ of the young people but experience different circumstances as they are in a different time stream. Their search for the children brushes and slips by like ships barely passing in the dark.

I found the historical settings in 1943-44 intriguing, including the Japanese internment camp. It is quickly apparent that the young people are stepping into realms fraught with emotional turmoil and difficult decisions regarding their caring and sharing. I was shaking my head as I saw the troubles they were creating for themselves. It was interesting to see how author Heldt would treat each dilemma. As is the pattern from the prior books, the last chapters tense up with danger and an exciting race to the next time jump… where adventures will no doubt continue in the next book.

I enjoy how the story is told in chapters that feature views from the alternating characters. Mr. Heldt does a good job of blending ‘real-to-life’ situations (like new babies and new romance) with the challenges of time travel issues. I recommend this to readers who enjoy family fiction with time travel as a bonus.

Source: 12/18 Author review request. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Alphabet and Author Review Goals.

Audible Book Review:Blackmoore by Julianne Dondalson

This is a heart wrenching romance.
Blackmoore
By: Julianne Donaldson
Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell

Length: 9 hrs and 47 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-18-13
Language: English
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Genre: Historical Regency, Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall, Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Kate Worthington knows her heart and she knows she will never to marry. Her plan is to travel to India instead - if only to find peace for her restless spirit and to escape the family she abhors. But Kate’s meddlesome mother has other plans. She makes a bargain with Kate: India, yes, but only after Kate has secured - and rejected - three marriage proposals.
Kate journeys to the stately manor of Blackmoore determined to fulfill her end of the bargain sooner rather than later and enlists the help of her dearest childhood friend, Henry Delafield. But when it comes to matters of love, bargains are meaningless and plans are changeable. There on the wild lands of Blackmoore, Kate must face the truth that has kept her heart captive. Will the proposal she is determined to reject actually be the one thing that will set her heart free?
Set in Northern England in 1820, Blackmoore is a regency romance that tells the story of a young woman struggling to learn how to follow her heart.
©2013 Julianne Clawson Donaldson (P)2013 Shadow Mountain.

Review:
Kate made a decision at age 14 that she would never marry. Instead, she plans to travel, with her restless spirit and her aunt, to India. She particularly wants to get away for her toxic household where her father ignores the family and her mother flirts with any man, young or old, and ties to teach her daughters to do the same, and to trap an appropriate husband.

Before Kate goes to India she wants to visit Blackmoore, the estate of her childhood neighbor and friend, Henry Delafield. She has wanted to visit the estate for years, but their mothers despise each other. Henry and Kate were only able to spend time together because Kate was best friends with Henry’s awkward sister. But Lady Delafield had made it very clear that Henry will never marry Kate. In fact, Henry has an arranged fiancé waiting for him.

Kate finally makes a desperate bargain with her mother. She must receive and reject three proposals to get the right to go to India. Plus one other stipulation that Kate doesn’t think through. Kate convinces her mother to allow her to make the visit to Blackmoore with the expectation there will be available matches to meet at the house party.

Kate arrives at Blackmoore to find that Henry’s future bride is there with his mother. The young woman is beautiful, refined, and already preparing to take her place as the mistress of the manor. And Lady Delafield is far from pleased that Henry invited Kate.

Henry continues to seek time to walk and talk with Kate in between the scheduled dinners and tête-à-têtes with his intended. When her first few attempts to engage the interest of other men are unsuccessful, Kate comes up with another plan. It becomes clear she may succeed but at the cost of her heart.

It was hard to like Kate at first as she seemed rather self-absorbed and cold. Only further into the story does it become clear the horrible household she has had to endure and the sacrifice she has determined to make for the one she loves. Henry is a wonderful, proper young gentleman. I appreciated that this contained a lovely romance with no need for sexual innuendos. The undercurrent of love builds even as the conflict for Kate and Henry builds. I have no idea why this is dubbed ‘a Proper romance.” It is heart wrenching to get to the point where they recognize their love. I recommend this to readers who enjoy the struggles of a thwarted romance.

Audio Notes: Cassandra Campbell does a beautiful job with the narration. She manages to put the right edge to the characters to help bring the story more intensity. I am glad I listened to this.

Source: December 2016 Audible sale. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook Goals.

Book Review: A Romantic Ghost Story by Jason W. Chan

This ghostly romance reads quickly.

A Romantic Ghost Story
by Jason W. Chan

File Size: 663 KB
Print Length: 92 pages
Publication Date: December 23, 2011
ASIN: B006POX2NC
Genre: Ghost, Paranormal, Romance
My Rating: 3.5 of 5.0

Trapped on Earth and forced to marry a demon, Nancy is a spirit about to give up her dreams of success in Hollywood when a brave young man returns her faith to her, and makes her believe in love again. A Romantic Ghost Story is about the all-powerful, redemptive nature of love and how it could change someone’s world.

Review:
Nancy is lying on her death bed having lived a long, energetic life. The doctor and nurses are reluctant to tell her she is close to death but they don’t realize she is ready to die. She claims she has been dead before and she is looking forward to seeing Ryan again. The caregivers think perhaps she is hallucinating.

When Nancy’s young granddaughter arrives, she confirms that she doesn’t know about her grandmother having a death experience and she has never heard of Ryan. Nancy smiles and then drifts into memories 75 years earlier.

Nancy was a young woman born in Macedonia to a poor family. She struggles even before her parents die but then she is left in the care of a greedy, abusive “uncle”. Nancy dreams of getting to Hollywood to pursue her dreams to become a successful singer/songwriter/star. She clings to her guitar, Lucy, and sings whenever she can hoping to be discovered. She sings a sad song she wrote herself. One day a tourist eating in the café claims he is a music producer who wants to sponsor in Hollywood.

Nancy sets out with tremulous dreams but soon finds herself as a victim of sex trafficking. Events spiral down as Nancy’s situation plunges her to death and delivers her into the hands of a demonic Sea God. Although the Sea God chooses Nancy as his fiancé, this ‘privilege’ brings the threat of permanent separation from the world and any goodness. Nancy’s only joy and hope comes when she meets a young singer, Ryan. He believes in her and is willing to help her try to escape to follow her dreams.

I liked the premise of the story and feel it had strong potential. The storytelling is interesting and there is lovely tenderness in the love story between ghost Nancy and Ryan. Sadly, the story is in desperate need of editing. My reading attention was particularly disrupted by inconsistent sentence tenses. There were also some plot threads that were too unrealistic with dangers and resolutions not fully explained. This is a quick romance that could be enjoyed by readers who enjoy ghostly stories.

Source: I pulled this from my Kindle TBR shelf – 2013. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Alphabetic Goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: An Unexpected Redemption by Emily Hamsher

I liked this strong Christian romance.
An Unexpected Redemption
by Emily Hamsher

File Size: 581 KB
Print Length: 268 pages
Publisher: WestBow Press (May 8, 2018)
ASIN: B07D94GFDJ
Genre: Christian, Medieval, Romance
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Prince Lucian of Brasov has been running from his family, from God, and even from himself. When he decides to take revenge upon his elder brother by stealing away his betrothed, Lucian is taken aback by the woman in his custody. Her pure heart and unabashed kindness thwarts his every cruel intention. Lucian finds himself hoping that she might hold the answers to heal his past, even though he knows she can never be his.
Every girl dreams of marrying her prince, so when Lady Adelina receives the unexpected announcement of her betrothal to the Prince of the realm, she takes it as a clear sign of the Lords will. When she is kidnapped by a band of ruffians and taken far from her home she quickly learns that the road to love is never as it seems. Though her captor portrays himself as a ruthless man, Adelina cant help but feel compassion for him and the pain she finds lurking beneath the dark shadows of his character.

Review:
Lucian was adopted into a royal family. Although that is a special gift, he is still a young, rebellious boy who pushes the boundaries. When he is sent home form school, he knows he has disappointed his adoptive parents. When his elder brother scorns him he knows he has been rejected and he runs away so that he can live life with adventure and danger as he wants.

Years later he is a brigand leading a crew of misfits. When he receives an invitation to his brother’s wedding Lucian decides to kidnap the chosen bride.

Lady Adelina has always had a dream about the young prince who rescued her from bullies when she was a young girl. She is thrilled to be betrothed to the prince and sets out to meet her intended and the royal family. Shortly into the journey she is kidnapped by Lucian and his band of thieves. Her faith that her heavenly Father will protect her surrounds her spirit with dignity and strength. The brigands sense the deep goodness in Adelina and treat her gently and carefully. Especially Radu, Lucian’s best friend and second in command, seeks to protect Adelina. He himself has accepted faith in Jesus but has continued to live with Lucian. He hopes that someday he will be able to make Lucian grow beyond his bitterness and plans of revenge.

Lucian watches Lady Adelina and slowly his heart opens to the peace her faith exudes. But what chance does he have of gaining the love of the woman who is already promised to his brother? And when he returns her to his family’s home, what will be his reception from the parents he has been estranged from for ten years?

I wanted to like Lucian but he doesn’t make it easy. Lady Adelina’s steadfast faith and willingness to share love to a rogue is beautiful. The characters are well developed. There is action to move the story along but the strong, unrelenting faith of Adelina made to story extra special for me. The writing is straight forward and descriptive. My only disappointment was the abrupt ending that leaves the story suspended for a next book.

This is a wonderful mix of medieval dangers and a love that is all that is proper and blessed. I would like to read more by Ms. Hamsher. I recommend this to readers who enjoy medieval romance and are open to strong faith themes.

Source: 2018 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019NetGalley and 2019Alphabet Goals.

Audible Book Review: Gracie’s Touch by S.E. Smith

This is spicy sexually but a very warm romance in a space sci fi.

Gracie’s Touch
By: S.E. Smith
Narrated by: David Brenin

Series: Zion Warriors, Book 1
Length: 7 hrs and 59 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 01-03-17
Language: English
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.
Genre: Romance, Sci Fi, Space Military
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 3.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of science fiction and paranormal romance brings another action, adventure, and suspense-filled story to transport listeners out of this world. Gracie Jones was little more than a child when Earth was invaded by an alien species. Escaping into the subway tunnels of New York City, she hid in fear of being captured. Discovered by four men who became her protectors, she fought alongside them, and they became known as the Freedom Five. At 17, she made a decision that turned the tide in the war between Earth and the Alluthans, but in exchange, she gave up all that she knew. Kordon Jefe is a Zion Warrior and the commanding officer in charge of the Confederation of Planets' military. When an unknown species begins attacking some of their outer settlements, he is assigned to discover who they are and stop them - at any cost. Gracie finds herself stranded millions of light years and hundreds of years in the future in a distant galaxy on an undeveloped moon. When an old enemy threatens once more, she does not hesitate to use her knowledge to try to stop them once again. Only this time, it is not just Earth she will be saving, but the Confederation itself. When their two worlds are thrown together, Kordon is unsure what to do with the strange, delicate creature who fights and behaves unlike anyone he has ever encountered before. One thing he does know - he plans to keep her.
©2016 S.E. Smith (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Review:
Gracie was just a child when she survived the invasion of a brutal alien attack that decimated humanity on earth. Gracie hid in the subway tunnels until she was brought under the protection of a group of young men. The five rebels became known as The Freedom Five who led a revolution against the aliens. The only way to defeat the enemy was for Gracie to risk infiltrating the enemy mothership. She succeeded but instead of returning to earth the stolen ship she was on was hurtled deep in space to an “unknown” planet. Gracie survives on the planet and after three years despairs of ever hearing another voice. To her surprise her radio outreach attracts a lead military ship of the Confederation of Planets'.

Gracie’s gentle voice pulls in captain Kordon Jefe, a strong, usually unexcitable, Zion Warrior. Kordon becomes obsessed with finding the woman behind the voice even as his team warn him that it might be a trap as the ship is similar to a recent mysterious enemy who has been attacking isolated mining worlds.

Gracie has linguist and technical knowledge that can help the Confederation. The time travel changes the situation for Gracie. Her joy at being rescued soon turns to devastation. How can Kordon and his crew convince Gracie to fight the common enemy? And how can Kordon convince Gracie to forget her first love and take a chance on a current love? He’ll figure a way to woo her since he isn’t going to give her up.

I enjoyed the space sci fi elements, the danger and the action. In addition to the threat of the Alluthan enemy, there is an enemy closer to home who poses a threat particularly to Gracie. Not all of the plot threads are realistic so some of that has to be overlooked to enjoy the rest of the story.

All of this is a setting for a strong romance between an emotionally hurt human and a normally unemotional warrior. Kordon wants to be this big, protective mate, but of course, there is no real way to control an independent human female! Part of the fun of the story is watching (listening to) the couple grow in their relationship. (There is a secondary romance between other crew members too.) The sex elements are a little to heavy for me – Audible labeled “hot d..n”.

The world building and writing is clean and strong. The action story is still engaging but the romance takes over the story. I recommend this to sci fi readers who like heavy romance… or even more to heavy romance readers who like sci fi elements.

Audio Notes: David Brenin does a very good job with the narration. He provides believable female voices as well as strong male voice. He carries the story plot lien with appropriate pacing and energy.

Source: August 2017 Audible sale $4.95. This qualifies for 2019TBR and 2019Audiobook Goals.

Audible Book Review: The Bird and the Sword by Amy Harmon

This is an awesome fantasy, fairy tale romance.

The Bird and the Sword
By: Amy Harmon
Narrated by: Trina Nishimura

Series: The Bird and the Sword Chronicles, Book 1
Length: 11 hrs and 3 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 10-20-16
Language: English
Publisher: Novel Audio
Genre: Fairy Tales, Fantasy, Romance
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall, Story and Narration

Publisher's Summary
Swallow, daughter, pull them in, those words that sit upon your lips. Lock them deep inside your soul, hide them 'til they've time to grow. Close your mouth upon the power, curse not, cure not, 'til the hour. You won't speak and you won't tell, you won't call on heaven or hell. You will learn and you will thrive. Silence, daughter. Stay alive.
The day my mother was killed, she told my father I wouldn't speak again, and she told him if I died, he would die too. Then she predicted the king would sell his soul and lose his son to the sky. My father has a claim to the throne, and he is waiting in the shadows for all of my mother's words to come to pass. He wants desperately to be king, and I just want to be free. But freedom will require escape, and I'm a prisoner of my mother's curse and my father's greed. I can't speak or make a sound, and I can't wield a sword or beguile a king. In a land purged of enchantment, love might be the only magic left, and who could ever love...a bird?
©2016 Amy Harmon (P)2016 Audiobooks.com Publishing.

Review:
Lark is gifted in a kingdom that has banned the gifted. When she is only five years old the king executes her mother in front of Lark. Before she dies Lark’s mother, a Teller, instructs her to swallow ‘those words”, “…curse not, cure not.” Her mother speaks a future against the king and his son, then tells Lark’s father that his life is tied to Larks: if she dies, he dies. Her father wants nothing to do with Lark but keeps her under lock and key with no friends. Lark sneaks out to the surrounding forest usually shadowed by her only friend, and self-appointed protector, a troll by the name of Boojohni.

Lark, now a silent young lady of 17, is caught out in the road when the new king, King Tiras, finds her. He decides to capture and hold her as a form of ransom to make her father cooperate and commit his troops to a current threat. A massive army of Volgar, half-vulture and half deformed human, are attacking the border cities of the kingdom. King Tiras has called on the provinces to aid in the battles.

Lark isn’t happy being kidnapped by the son of her mother’s murderer. As they ride to return to the king’s city, the king’s entourage is attacked by the Volgar. They are all surprised when Lark is able to help repel the attack. Now King Tiras has even more reason to keep Lark at his side.

There are four types of gifted: Spinners who can manipulate inanimate objects; Tellers who can see and speak the future; Changers who can become other creatures; and Healers. The king has his own secrets, as do many other authorities and citizens. It appears that half of the king’s counsel are plotting to take over the throne. As Lark and Tiras grow closer the dangers hovering within the kingdom and in the skies above are increasing.

I was quickly drawn into this story by the lyrical writing, the distinctive characters, the solid world building and the magical plot. Lark is a lonely but lovely character. She has great power coupled with great compassion. Tiras is a strong leader dedicated to saving the kingdom no matter what it takes, including the possibility of sacrifices. There is wonderful mystery, suspense and danger as well as a gentle, deep romance.

This book is complete for the primary characters. I am glad there is a second book and also glad that it will tell the story of King Tiras’ stepbrother, Kjell. I will be getting book 2 soon and looking for more titles by Amy Harmon. I highly recommend this to readers who love fantasy romance.

Audio Notes: Trina Nishimura does an entrancing narration of this work. She captures the tone of the magic while providing good voices suiting the characters. I look forward to hearing more narration by this talented performer.

Source: June 2017 Audible Daily Deal $3.95. This qualifies for 2019TB and 2019Audiobook goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Somewhere The Bells Ring (Somewhere in Time Book 3) by Beth Trissel

This is another engaging Christmas romance with a ghostly presence.
Somewhere The Bells Ring (Somewhere in Time Book 3)
by Beth Trissel

File Size: 265 KB
Print Length: 78 pages
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press; Faery Rose edition (November 8, 2011)
ASIN: B006530S2Q
Genre: Ghosts, Holidays, Paranormal, Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Ghosts aren't real, are they?
December 1968: Caught with pot in her dorm room, Bailey Randolph is exiled to a relative's ancestral home in Virginia to straighten herself out. Banishment to Maple Hill is dismal, until a ghost appears requesting her help. Bailey is frightened but intrigued. Then her girlhood crush, Eric Burke, arrives and suddenly Maple Hill isn't so bad.
To Eric, wounded in Vietnam, his military career shattered, this homecoming feels no less like exile. But when he finds Bailey at Maple Hill, her fairy-like beauty gives him reason to hope--until she tells him about the ghost haunting the house. Then he wonders if her one experiment with pot has made her crazy.
As Bailey and Eric draw closer, he agrees to help her find a long-forgotten Christmas gift the ghost wants. But will the magic of Christmas be enough to make Eric believe--in Bailey and the ghost--before the Christmas bells ring?

Review:
Bailey is a bit of a free spirit in a generation that tips between propriety, the traumas of the Vietnam war and ‘free love’. Bailey has been sent off to the ancestral home of her Aunt to spend Christmas and sort herself out. Things are calm, almost boring, until Bailey spots a ghost in the window and then meets the apparition in person. She creates a quick bond with the ghost and agrees to hunt for a long-lost Christmas gift.

Eric has returned home after being wounded in Vietnam, His spirits are low until he is encouraged that an old family friend, Bailey, is spending the holidays. She has grown into a little beauty who intrigues him although he is disturbed by her insistence of meeting the house ghost.
Eric is skeptical of the tales of a ghost but wants to help Bailey, even if it means humoring her quest.

I really liked Bailey’s empathy for the ghost and I enjoyed the attraction and caution between Eric and Bailey. The historical elements, the 1960s and an earlier war era, were nicely descriptive with the injuries being handled gently. There was a nice warmth to the story which I found engaging. I recommend this to romance readers who enjoy a touch of paranormal.

Source: NetGalley 2018; NetGalley Challenge.

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.

Tour Review: Operation Earth by Maria Hammarblad

I liked the premise of the book but, sadly, the story didn’t grab me.

Operation Earth
by Maria Hammarblad

File Size: 1845 KB
Print Length: 179 pages
Publication Date: August 29, 2018
ASIN: B07GZ1ZHH7
Genre: Alien Invasion, Romance, Sci Fi
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Tagline: They’re here. Are you ready?

Seven billion people on Earth go about their daily lives, and no one is prepared when a global EMP slows the world to a crawl. Within days alien soldiers line the streets, and life will never be the same. In the midst of chaos, Rachael Hill struggles to adapt to the new order, doing her best to keep herself and her cat alive.
On a ship far above the planet surface, Peter just got his new Earth name, and can’t even remember his identity from the last world he visited. It’s another day on the job, one more planet on a never-ending list. That is, until Rachael bumps into him, dropping exotic objects all around his feet. His culture taught him females should be obeyed and protected, but he never had an urge to leave himself at a woman’s mercy until now.

Review:
Rachel Hill is a young woman whose quiet lifestyle is abruptly changed when aliens initiate an EMP strike on earth. Many humans fear the alien beings who are taking over and patrolling their neighborhoods. Rachel bumps into one at the local grocery store and becomes enamored. Rachel’s neighbors invite her to join a secret rebellion group, but she isn’t interested, especially after her new alien friend, Peter, steps in to save her from a threatening situation.

Peter has been given a new name and new memories. He is a commander of a local patrol when he meets Rachel. They bump into each other a couple of times and soon he is escorting her home and enjoying earth dinners and games. He is willing to learn more about the earthlings, up close and personal.

Peter and others are sent to meet with leaders in France to calm the rebels there. Internal attacks result in Peter stepping up to protect one of the female leaders. The alien society is led by females so it is natural for Peter to seek to help and protect.

The aliens want to control the recolonization without harming the people or the environment. As hostilities intensify, the aliens seek a way to calm the situation before things escalate to more dangerous control options.

I liked the premise of the book but, sadly, found the characters and story fell flat. Rachel is too naïve and wimpy for my tastes, except for her courage in making friends with Peter. Of course, she was easily drawn to the tall, blonde, blue-eyed and buff alien. Peter’s character was a little more interesting, but I felt that there was mystery to his background which was never disclosed.

Not being engaged by the characters made this hard for me to really get into the story. The ship and alien society have some interesting elements, but again, it didn’t seem fully developed. There are a few exciting action scenes, but I found most of the plot line unimpressive. This is primarily a romance with an alien who is very similar to earth men. It is an easy read but I wasn't excited by it. I would suggest that a romance audience would be more appropriate than readers who like the more usual action and imagination of sci fi.

Source: Review book from Bewitching Book Tours: This fits as a 2018 book for my Alphabet Challenge.

Excerpt:

The neighbor’s house mocked her. Were they still watching her, or had they given up? Had they noticed Peter was no longer around, and if so, what did they make of it?
Rachael probably kept her eyes as much on them as they did on her, and in less dire circumstances the situation would have been comical.
Bonbon wanted to go outside, and she followed the cat into bright morning sunshine.
It’s a fine day. I wish I had coffee. This would be a good day for having morning coffee on the porch.
She glanced over toward Melissa’s house. They had a window open. Interesting. Before she knew what she was doing, she pulled her hairclip off and tossed it into their yard.
“Oops, I must have dropped it there that one day I went over to see them. I’d better go get it.”
Setting foot on the other side of the hedge seemed dangerous, but she had Peter’s gun tucked in a pocket, and the hairclip glittered in the grass, close to the open window.
How did she become so bold?
Walk casually. How the hell does one walk casually? Do I whistle? No, make as little sound as possible...
She strolled, doing her best to look normal. Just an ordinary woman going over to pick up something ordinary she dropped on an ordinary day.
Seconds later, she crouched under the window. At first, she couldn’t hear anything, then Melissa’s voice drifted out.
“I don’t think this is a good idea.”
“Of course it is. We need to show them what we’re made of.”
That was clearly Ryan. She didn’t know his voice all that well, but the feisty attitude gave him away.
A third voice followed. It must be Martin of the tobacco-stained teeth and bad breath.
“It doesn’t matter what you think, Hon. The missile is ready and will be launched.”
Missile? What the hell are these people up to? Do they know I’m out here? Did they leave the window open to see if I’d overhear and tattle, or do they feel safe now when Peter isn’t around?
Either way, overthinking wouldn’t do her any good. She strained her ears and heard Melissa speak again.
“I didn’t think missiles could go into space.”
“It’s complicated. I’m worried about the guidance system, we’ve scraped together bits and pieces, but nothing is as good as it should be,” Martin answered.
Another long silence followed, and Rachael dried her palms on her clothes, immediately scolding herself for doing so. Her mom would have had a field day with that behavior. Maybe they were coming out, and she should hurry to leave.
“You know, the guy next door, he doesn’t seem so bad.”
Something heavy fell to the floor and Rachael imagined Ryan’s chair toppling over. His voice was anything but patient.
“Don’t be such a goose. Rachael’s just as bad as them and should burn with them. If she chooses to stand with them, she will. With any luck, that guy is on the ship when we bomb it and we can talk her back to the right side. If not, well, we’ll just have to kill him anyway, won’t we?”

About the Author:

Maria Hammarblad is an author and bass player whose fascination with books started early. Before she could read or write, she made her mother staple papers together to resemble books. She drew suns in them and claimed they were "The Sun Book." They were all about the sun.

The four-year-old also claimed her existence on Earth was a mistake, the result of a horrible mix-up, and that her real family would come to bring her home to her own planet at any time. This didn't happen, but her fascination with books and other worlds stayed with her.

Besides novels, she also writes award-winning screenplays, enjoys photography, and works with animal rescue organizations.

Website: http://www.hammarblad.com

Blog: http://www.scifiromance.info

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

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/mariahammarblad

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4114780.Maria_Hammarblad

Audible Book Review: One Man's Opus by Boyd Craven III

This is a charming romance with a great dog included.

One Man's Opus

A Survival and Preparedness Story

By: Boyd Craven III

Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

Series: One Man's Opus, Book 1

Length: 6 hrs and 14 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release date: 04-26-17

Language: English

Publisher: Boyd Craven III

Genre: Preparedness, Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

Man's best friend.

Rick is like many Americans. He's concerned with what he sees on the news, and how the country seems to be ready to tear itself apart. His biggest concern has been civil unrest. Already an avid camper, he sets out to secure his future, and career, by finding his own Eden.

Tina is a small-business owner and knows what she wants in life. She and her furry companion find themselves at gunpoint when Rick walks back into her world and forever changes the dynamic between them.

One dog, who's been the savior, protector, and companion...Opus. The owner of two humans that mostly understand him. Mostly.

When the police walk into an ambush, a series of events forces the couple to bug out. The problem with having to leave for a small town, at a remote location, is it really isn't a secret. Small towns bring their own problems with crime, and power plays. Everybody knows everybody, and the gossip mill runs as fast as lightning.

Will the trio be as prepared as they need to be?

©2017 Boyd Craven III (P)2017 Boyd Craven III

Review:
Rick is a serious introvert and sort of a geek author. He thought he would write a different genre but, on a dare, he started writing paranormal romance which provides a decent living. A friend offers him an old RV and Rick re-meets Tina when he goes to ask to park the unit at her storage facility. In an unexpected situation he is surprised to meet her guard dog, Opus.

Rick goes camping and begins to set up a campsite/bug out place. He thinks he may need to be more prepared for rough times. Rick, with Tina visiting, spends more time at the RV especially as unrest and riots spread in the city. Most of the campsite neighbors are friendly but one man and his unpleasant friends object and look to cause trouble.

The relationship between Rick and Tina develops slowly, always with Opus making his presence known. Rick and Tina are very relatable, real to life characters and Opus is a gem. This is a charming romance story which moves along at a nice pace with the decisions of life and impact of friends added in.

I have read and enjoyed a couple of post-apocalyptic tales by Mr. Craven. This story is not truly post-apocalyptic but rather a preparedness story as stated. I was pleased to find this engaging even though it is not full of tension and action. It is not a steamy romance either; just a nice, warm love story. I recommend this to readers who enjoy a natural life, warm romance and might like the touch of prepper elements.

Audio Notes: Kevin Pierce does a solid job of narrating. He creates voices for characters and provides appropriate emotion while being a very easy listen. I enjoy his portrayal which added to my enjoyment of the book.

Source: Audible Credit Purchase June 2017. This qualifies for 2018TBR and Audiobook Challenge.

Book Review and Giveaway: The Letters by Suzanne Woods Fisher

This is a delightful read.
The Letters (The Inn at Eagle Hill Book #1): A Novel
by Suzanne Woods Fisher

File Size: 6488 KB
Print Length: 322 pages
Publisher: Revell (August 1, 2013)
ASIN: B00B85MPMC
Genre: Amish, Christian, Romance
My Rating 4.75 of 5.0

Rose Schrock is a plain woman with a simple plan. Determined to find a way to support her family and pay off her late husband's debts, she sets to work to convert the basement of her Amish farmhouse into an inn. While her family, especially her cranky mother-in-law, is unhappy with Rose's big idea, her friend and neighbor, Galen King, supports the decision and he helps with the conversion. As Rose finalizes preparations for visitors, she prays. She asks God to bless each guest who stays at the Inn at Eagle Hill. As the first guest arrives and settles in, Rose is surprised to discover that her entire family is the one who receives the blessings, in the most unexpected ways. And she's even more surprised when that guest decides to play matchmaker for Galen King.
With her signature plot twists combined with gentle Amish romance, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites readers back to Stoney Ridge for fresh stories of simple pleasures despite the complexity of life. Fisher's tale of God's providence and provision will delight her fans and create many new ones. Welcome to the Inn at Eagle Hill.

Review:
Rose is a widow caring for her husband’s two older girls, their own eight- and ten-year-old boys and her ailing mother-in-law. Her husband was facing scandal about his financial company when he died of suspected suicide. His oldest son, who was involved in the company has disappeared. The boys are an energetic handful and thirteen-year-old Mim is an observant, studious young girl who is just beginning to notice a boy in her class. The eldest daughter, nineteen-year-old Bethany, has a special gift for helping with their cranky grandmother, Vera. Meanwhile Bethany is not so patiently waiting for her father’s business associate to come claim her hand.

Rose decides to turn the basement into a bed and breakfast inn to help pay off some of her husband’s debts. Vera isn’t thrilled with the idea, but Rose’s neighbor, Galen King, a steady and solitary man, is being supportive and helping her. Rose prays for each guest even as they arrive unexpectedly. The first guests are by accident, but they are blessings. The first real guest, Delia, has come to the Inn seeking refuge from trauma that has turned her life upside down. She finds blessing in her recuperative time as she watches the love and caring in the family and community.

The title could come from several different groups of letters which are part of the story. The story has mysteries, intrigues, and a little gentle romance. The writing is smooth, descriptive and moves along very nicely. The daily living by the characters is engaging and delightful. The dedicated faith presented through Rose’s character is beautiful. There are questions remaining at the end that cause interest in the next book in the series which I am likely to get. My book club ladies all enjoyed the title and they asked about book two

Although I have a couple other books by Ms. Fisher on my TBR I think this is the first I have read. It won’t be the last. I recommend this to readers who enjoy lovely Amish stories.

Source: 2013 print copy; 2016 Kindle. Ladies Book Club. This qualifies for 2018TBR.

GIVEAWAY:

TWO WINNERS!

Paperback Book (US and Canada Only)

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries

(a) comment on the review

(b) visit the author's Website and tell me something you like there.

* This contest is open to US and Canada only for the paperback book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) July 28, 2018.
Winners are asked to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.