So I am a pretty big fan of Kristin Hannah and when I found out that her newest book would be featured as one of the "book of the month" picks I was EXCITED. I love her writing as stories have a lot of grit but also well written characters in my opinion. Needless to say if you enjoy reading hot of the press books and are looking for something new I highly recommend checking out Book of the Month.
It is worth checking out and I just wanted to share!
Book: A Heart’s Gift
Author: Lena Nelson Dooley
Genre: Christian historical romance
Is a marriage of convenience the answer?
Franklin Vine has worked hard to build the ranch he inherited into one of the most successful in the majestic Colorado mountains. If only he had an heir to one day inherit the legacy he’s building. But he was burned once in the worst way, and he doesn’t plan to open his heart to another woman. Even if that means he’ll eventually have to divide up his spread among the most loyal of his hired hands.
When Lorinda Sullivan is finally out from under the control of men who made all the decisions in her life, she promises herself she’ll never allow a man to make choices for her again. But without a home in the midst of a hard Rocky Mountain winter, she has to do something to provide for her infant son.
A marriage of convenience seems like the perfect arrangement, yet the stakes quickly become much higher than either of them ever planned. When hearts become entangled, the increasing danger may change their lives forever.
Click here to get your copy!
Lena Nelson Dooley has been an author for 36 years. Her 51st book released in June 2020. Raised in Arkansas, she married a Texan 56 years ago. They have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex for decades. She is an active member of ACFW and one of the founding members the DFW local chapter. She’s often been a speaker for other writers’ groups and conferences, both as a keynote speaker and a workshop teacher. Her fans love reading her books filled with characters who grip your heart.
I’ve been a lover of history for decades. In college and graduate school, all my elective courses were history. Of course, I chose the countries and eras I wanted to learn about. When I began writing novels, my first one was a contemporary story. After that at least 75% or more of my novels have been historical, from 1805 through the early 20th century.
I’ve always been fascinated by the relationship between Joseph and Mary the mother of Jesus. The Bible doesn’t give us a lot of information about their relationship. But by his actions, we can assume that Joseph believed the angel and Mary about her baby. He didn’t do the usual thing and put her away quietly. Instead, he protected her, and from the day He was born, he became the earthly father of Jesus. I’ve often thought about what that meant for Joseph and for Mary. When I wrote a story of a marriage between a man and a single mother, I used the emotions that I feel God has revealed to me about their relationship.
The first time I read a marriage of convenience novel, I loved it. And I’ve read quite a few. I’ve also written a few. A Heart’s Gift is one of them. This book was an easy and interesting book to write.
I’m what’s called in the industry a seat-of-the-pants author, more or less. I do have the complete outline of the story in my head. When I sit down to write, I know where I’m going, but I don’t have every single scene plotted out as some authors do. And I pray a lot. During the time I’m writing a book, God drops ideas into my mind. Not just while I’m writing, but other times, too. That’s the exciting thing about writing. This keeps it fresh for me.
During the writing of A Heart’s Gift, there’s a place where I just stopped and said, “God, what am I going to do now?” When you get there, you’ll know what scene I mean, but I don’t want to give a spoiler.
I never dreamed that the book would turn into a suspense novel in the last quarter of the book, but God knew. And it made it a better book.
Connie’s History Classroom, January 13
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, January 13
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 14
Maureen’s Musings, January 14
Reviewingbooksplusmore, January 15
Sara Jane Jacobs, January 15
Inklings and notions, January 16
Mypreciousbitsandmusings, January 16
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 17
Writing from the Heart Land, January 17
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 18
Betti Mace, January 18
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 19
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 19
Artistic Nobody, January 20 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Melissa Wardwell’s Back Porch Reads, January 20
Older & Smarter?, January 21
lalkesidelivingsite, January 21
For Him and My Family, January 22
Labor Not in Vain, January 22
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 23
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, January 23
Texas Book-aholic, January 24
To Everything There Is A Season, January 24
deb’s Book Review, January 25
Lis Loves Reading, January 25
Splashes of Joy, January 26
Pause for Tales, January 26
Mary Hake, January 26
To celebrate her tour, Lena is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
My Thoughts
I was excited to read this book and was not disappointed. I really enjoyed the setting of the mountains in Colorado. Lorinda is a unique character and I really enjoyed reading her story play out in the pages. I thought her character really grew and was well written. Honestly all of the characters I thought were well done and a marriage of convenience is always entertaining. The story line flowed nicely and I really couldn't put it down. The ending is what makes this a four star book to me. I thought it was rushed and thrown together. I didn't love how predictable it was. I still really enjoyed this story but I do wish the ending wasn't so rushed. That being said I now think I need to get my hands on many more of Lena Nelson Dooley's books!
If you enjoyed historical fiction and marriage of convenience I think you would enjoy this story.
Four Stars.
"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review. "
About the Book
As a former field
surgeon in Afghanistan, Heather Fontaine is used to life-or-death
situations. She just didn't expect them to follow her home. When she
returns from a party to find that someone has broken into her house--and
threatened her friends--she assumes it is the stalker who has been
following her and creeping her out. She hopes to find safety and peace
of mind by leaving the city and hiding out in a small town. But trouble
has followed her even there.
Luckily, a stalker isn't the only
one watching Heather. Travis Walker has been secretly watching out for
her for weeks. As owner of his own security agency, it's what he does.
Together, Travis and Heather must figure out who wants her dead--and
why--before it's too late.
Bestselling and award-winning author
Lynette Eason will have you looking over your shoulder as you dive into
this fast-paced, suspense-filled story about losing control and finding
something even better. (Goodreads)
My Thoughts
I have enjoyed this series thus far. The first book is the best no doubt about it. I enjoyed book two and this one is my least favorite. I really struggled with Heather and Travis and getting into the story line. I like how it ties in with the other books but really you could read this book as a stand alone. I thought it was interesting how Lynette Eason writes how a stalker can effect someone. Some parts of the story line I didn't really understand and it seemed like a stretch with the conclusion at the end. I will say that this series has been a very interesting peek into military lives. I don't read many military type books so these have made me consider things a little differently. I recommend starting with book one and I am eager to read the final book in the series.
Four Stars.
"I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
About the Book
Greta Nilsson's trip
west to save her ailing little sister, Astrid, could not have gone more
wrong. First, bandits hold up her stagecoach, stealing all her money.
Then, upon arriving in Fairplay, Colorado, she learns the man she was
betrothed to as a mail-order bride has died. Homeless, penniless, and
jobless, Greta and her sister are worse off than when they started.
Wyatt
McQuaid is struggling to get his new ranch up and running and is in
town to purchase cattle when the mayor proposes the most unlikely of
bargains. He'll invest in a herd of cattle for Wyatt's ranch if Wyatt
agrees to help the town become more respectable by marrying and starting
a family. And the mayor, who has promised to try to help Greta, has
just the candidate in mind for Wyatt to marry. (Goodreads)
My Thoughts
I was over the moon excited for this book as it is set in my home town area. Going into this book I knew it would be really difficult to not be nit picky on the details because the setting is very near and dear to me. That being said I just struggled with loving the characters in this book. Greta and Wyatt just aren't my favorite and the story line seemed very generic western romance. I love Jody Hedlund's writing but this book felt like it was rushed when written and I just didn't get the Hedlund feel from reading it. That being said I know many people have loved it. The setting of course is wonderful and it is still a charming story.
Three Stars.
"I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
About the Book
Selah Hopewell seems to
be the only woman in the Virginia colony who has no wish to wed. True,
there are too many men and far too few women in James Towne. But Selah
already has her hands full assisting her father in the family's shop.
And now she is in charge of an incoming ship of tobacco brides who must
be looked after as they sort through their many suitors.
Xander
Renick is perhaps the most eligible tobacco lord in the settlement. His
lands are vast, his crops are prized, and his position as a mediator
between the colonists and the powerful Powhatan nation surrounding them
makes him indispensable. But Xander is already wedded to his business
and still grieves the loss of his wife, daughter of the Powhatan chief.
Can
two fiercely independent people find happiness and fulfillment on their
own? Or will they discover that what they've been missing in life has
been right in front of them all along?
Bestselling and
award-winning author Laura Frantz takes you to the salty shores of
seventeenth-century Virginia in this exploration of pride, honor, and
the restorative power of true love. (Goodreads)
My Thoughts
This was the much anticipated Laura Frantz book that I simply didn't want to end. I get plain giddy over a new Frantz book and hesitate starting to read it because I know I will have to wait another year for the next one. This story was wonderful and met all expectations. I loved the characters and the setting. Xander and Selah's relationship develops differently and while this isn't my favorite couple of Laura's I still enjoyed their characters. I loved the secondary characters and also there are a few twists and turns you might not expect in the latter part of the book. I will say that there is a lot crammed into this story and honestly I think it could have been split into two novels. The end of the story just has SO much going on and the timeline seems to be a little tricky as the course of events play out. So while I so enjoyed this book I do wish the last part of the book flowed a bit better. Also, I personally think we need a sequel about Oceanus and the Powhatan nation.
So I highly recommend to all Laura Frantz and historical fiction fans!
Five Stars.
"I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
I am SO excited about these books coming out!
My goodness what a book year! This year was loads better than last year when it comes to books and I am excited to share my favorites. There were so many other amazing books but these are ones that have really stuck with me after reading them. They are in no particular order. There are some debut authors this year that really did an incredible job. I am excited to dive into 2021 reading!
See what else people loved this year: Top Ten Tuesday
About the Book
Harper Albright has
pinned all her hopes on a future in fashion design. But when it comes
crashing down around her, she returns home to Fairhope, Alabama, and to
Millie, the woman who first taught her to sew. As she rethinks her own
future, secrets long hidden about Millie's past are brought to light.
In
1946, Millie Middleton boarded a train and left Charleston to keep half
of her heritage hidden. She carried with her two heirloom buttons and
the dream of owning a dress store. She never expected to meet a charming
train jumper who changed her life forever . . . and led her yet again
to a heartbreaking choice about which heritage would define her future.
Now,
together, Harper and Millie return to Charleston and the man who may
hold the answers they seek . . . and a chance at the dress shop they've
both dreamed of. But it's not until all appears lost that they see the
unexpected ways to mend what frayed between the seams. (Goodreads)
My Thoughts
This is Ashley Clark's debut novel and it most certainly blew me away. It is in my top ten books of the year and I am anxious to read her next story. This book has a lot going on with a dual time line and multiple characters. It was very well done and I adored both story lines and all of the characters. Each person in this book was well developed and I felt like I got to know them personally. There is so much that this book holds I couldn't begin to describe it all. This book brings home the fact of how racism has affected people lives FOREVER as it continues to do today. There is a wonderful story of family and romance and there is a twist near the end that you don't see coming. This isn't a fast read by any means and I thoroughly enjoyed savoring each page. If you enjoy dual time lines you will love this book!
I highly recommend so go buy a copy now! Five stars.
"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
About the Book
Calista York needs one
more successful case as a Pinkerton operative to secure her job. When
she's assigned to find the kidnapped daughter of a mob boss, she's sent
to the rowdy mining town of Joplin, Missouri, despite having extended
family in the area. Will their meddling expose her mission and keep Lila
Seaton from being recovered?
When Matthew Cook decided to be a
missionary, he never expected to be sent only a short train ride away.
While fighting against corruption of all sorts, Matthew hears of a baby
raffle being held to raise funds for a children's home. He'll do what he
can to stop it, but he also wants to stop the reckless Miss York, whose
bad judgment consistently seems to be putting her in harm's way.
Calista
doesn't need the handsome pastor interfering with her investigation,
and she can't let her disguise slip. Her job and the life of a young
lady depend on keeping Matthew in the dark. (Goodreads)
My Thoughts
Having been to Joplin I was curious to read the historical aspect of the town. I had a difficult time connecting with the characters and the first part of the book moved a tad slow. But as the story moved on things started to flow a bit better and I got more into the story line. There are some fun moments and Calista is a very independent woman. Some of the scenes are pretty over the top but that can be part of the fun. It is interesting to read how rowdy this town was and the details of it's past.
If you enjoy Regina Jennings you will love this new book. This is the first in a new series so I am curious to see what comes next!
Three Stars.
"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
It has been a while since I have written a blog post. The past couple months have been a complete blur and really the past year seems to have escaped my mind. Life, as for many, has been hectic and frustrating. I am so looking forward to a day at home for Christmas.
I am hopeful the last few weeks of this year can be simple but joyful and that I can focus on what really matters. Life is not going to magically become perfect come 2021 but it still encouraging to be starting a new year.
I have been doing a study on Ecclesiastes with my church group and my goodness it has really helped! I feel completely scattered every week and then when I prepare for study and then dig deeper with my sisters in Christ I am reminded that God is in control. I encourage you to study Ecclesiastes!
With decorating for Christmas I decided to continue what I tried last year and decorate with citrus. It is an "old fashioned' type look and I love it! I dehydrate oranges, grapefruit, and lemons and then put them on the tree as ornaments! Also, a friend of mine shared this DIY Dried Orange Wreath video and I think I might need to give it a try.
You can also make garlands and it is a bright happy look. I like the ornaments because the Christmas lights shine so pretty through them.
Rebecca St. James had new songs come out in July and I am the last to know. This one I have been listening to a lot.
Also this is a great version of Little Drummer Boy.
I hope you have a great holiday season.
Happy December and Merry Christmas!
Book: An Ivy Hill Christmas
Author: Julie Klassen
Genre: Christmas Historical Romance
Release Date: September, 2020
Richard Brockwell, the younger son of Ivy Hill’s most prominent family, hasn’t been home for Christmas in years. He prefers to live in the London townhouse, far away from Brockwell Court, the old family secret that haunts him, and the shadows of his past mistakes. But then his mother threatens to stop funding his carefree life–unless he comes home for Christmas. Out of options, he sets out for Ivy Hill, planning to be back on a coach bound for London and his unencumbered bachelor life as soon as the festivities are over.
But Christmas in the country presents many surprises, including encounters with an orphaned apprentice, the first love he disappointed years ago, and Arabella Awdry, a young lady who is far more appealing than he recalled–and determined to have nothing to do with him.
Will Christmastime in Ivy Hill, with its village charm, kissing boughs, and joyous songs, change his heart . . . and hers as well?
Click here to get your copy!
Julie Klassen loves all things Jane–Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for 16 years and now writes full-time. Her novels have sold over 1 million copies, and three of her books, The Silent Governess, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and a Christian Retailing‘s Best Award, and has been a finalist in the Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards and ACFW’s Carol Awards. Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
My fascination with England began as a girl when I read The Secret Garden and Jane Eyre, and watched A Christmas Carol. I have now been to Great Britain several times, and my affection for the place has only grown. I love the country villages with their stone buildings and thatched roofs, the narrow, winding roads (though not driving on them), the ancient churches, friendly people, plummy accents, and history. Writing fifteen novels set there has been a real pleasure.
An Ivy Hill Christmas includes all the elements of an idyllic Olde English yuletide: A charming village setting, snowfall, mistletoe, caroling, gifts for less fortunate neighbors, and festive gatherings of friends and family. I thoroughly enjoyed researching 19th century Christmas traditions and weaving them into this novella.
In the story, a confirmed bachelor is determined to remain aloof from the celebrations going on around him—and from his mother’s matchmaking schemes. But divine hope, friendship, and unexpected romance change his heart…and his mind. I love a transformation story; don’t you?
If you’ve read the TALES FROM IVY HILL series, you will enjoy returning to the village and spending time with favorite characters. But rest assured, the novella is a standalone, meaning you can enjoy it whether or not you’ve read the other books, as these reviews attest:
“[A] standalone novella that not only beautifully captures the kindness, hope, love, and faith of Christmas but also skillfully evokes the period holiday atmosphere of Regency England.” —Booklist
“This feel-good tale of love and redemption will delight Klassen’s fans and new readers alike.” —Publishers Weekly
And if you like the novella, I think you will like the other books as well. An Ivy Hill Christmas would also make a lovely gift for a reading friend.
Finally, if you want to add a British flair to your own modern-day celebrations, buy (or make) mince tarts or Christmas pudding, place Christmas “crackers” (pull-apart gift tubes) on your table and wear the included paper crowns. Refer to Father Christmas instead of Santa; and instead of “Merry,” wish everyone a hearty, “Happy Christmas.”
Happy Christmas!
Through the Lens of Scripture, November 30
Adventures of a Travelers Wife, November 30
Ashley’s Bookshelf, November 30
Christian Bookaholic, November 30
Andrea Christenson, November 30
Texas Book-aholic, December 1
KarenSueHadley, December 1
Robin’s Nest, December 1
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 1
Blessed & Bookish, December 2
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, December 2
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 2
Mia Reads, December 2
Wishful Endings, December 3
lakesidelivingsite, December 3
Through the Fire Blogs, December 3
For Him and My Family, December 3
Just Your Average reviews, December 3
She Lives To Read, December 4
Remembrancy, December 4
deb’s Book Review, December 4
Writing from the Heart Land, December 4
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, December 5
Locks, Hooks and Books, December 5
Quiet Workings, December 5
Blogging With Carol, December 5
Spoken from the Heart, December 5
The Christian Fiction Girl, December 6
Mypreciousbitsandmusings, December 6
Connect in Fiction, December 6
Artistic Nobody, December 6 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Worthy2Read, December 7
Genesis 5020, December 7
Sara Jane Jacobs, December 7
Inklings and notions, December 7
Life of Literature, December 7
For the Love of Literature, December 8
Connie’s History Classroom, December 8
Batya’s Bits, December 8
Labor Not in Vain, December 8
Hallie Reads, December 8
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 9
Older & Smarter?, December 9
The Meanderings of a Bookworm, December 9
Jeanette’s Thoughts, December 9
Betti Mace, December 9
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, December 10
Faery Tales Are Real, December 10
Melissa Wardwell’s Back Porch Reads, December 10
Mary Hake, December 10
Daysong Reflections, December 11
Bigreadersite, December 11
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 11
Splashes of Joy, December 11
Vicky Sluiter, December 12
To Everything There Is A Season, December 12
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, December 12
Blossoms and Blessings, December 12
The Write Escape, December 12
A Baker’s Perspective, December 13
Bizwings Blog, December 13
Simple Harvest Reads, December 13 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
Pause for Tales, December 13
To celebrate her tour, Julie is giving away the grand prize package of a copy of An Ivy Hill Christmas and the other three books in the Ivy Hill series, plus the winner’s choice of Bingley’s Tea!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
My Thoughts
I love a great holiday story. While this is a short book it still holds a fun story line. I love the cover! Arabella is a great character but it took me awhile to warm up to Richard Brockwell. It was fun to read some Christmas traditions. I think that is what really made this book all the better is the historical aspect of it. There is some romance of course but the pages just flow together nicely to make up a cozy winter read. If you enjoy Klassen's timeless novels this book will make a great addition to your collection.
Four Stars.
"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."
About the Book A hidden past. A house with secrets. And one chance for two wounded hearts to find love together. Northern England, Late Fa...
