by admin | Jun 28, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I always enjoy Beth Vogt’s novels but “Almost Like Being In Love” is exceptionally good. With down-to-earth, likeable characters and a strong, evocative plot, this story pulled me right in and didn’t let go until its perfect ending.
Caron Hollister has spent her entire life trying to please her father – from basketball in high school to becoming a successful realtor in his firm to walking away from the love of her life and settling for the man her father approves. When her father makes a major change in the firm without telling her, Caron realizes that she can never do enough to earn his approval. A snap decision sends her to Colorado to help her her best friend prepare for her wedding and finds herself the winner of a destination wedding and honeymoon. How on earth will she tell her boyfriend Alex who hasn’t asked her to marry him yet? While there she runs into Kade, her former sweetheart and ends up agreeing to help him out in his business for a month. What a tangled mess!
I liked the way the author wrote this from POVs of Caron, Kade, and Alex so that the reader gets to know each of them intimately. The major theme that runs through the story is about what motivates people to make the decisions they make. Caron and Alex especially had to step back and look at themselves and what they really wanted from life and decide why they were even together. Did they really love each other enough to marry or were they trying to please their families or were they just doing what was easy and comfortable?
I really liked the way this story ended with none of the characters being portrayed as the “bad guy” (or girl). I would say that most of the situations were resolved well with relationships restored and lives changed for the better. I would heartily recommend this book.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, Inc.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Winning an all-expenses paid Colorado destination wedding might seem like a dream come true for some people—but Caron Hollister and her boyfriend Alex Madison aren’t even engaged. How is she supposed to tell him she’s won their wedding and honeymoon when he hasn’t asked her to marry him? Being “perfect for one another” seems like the absolute best reason to get married. But what if their supposedly faultless relationship is merely a safe place to protect his secrets and a way to keep their families happy? After quitting her job, Caron accepts her best friend’s offer to visit Colorado. She needs to catch her breath. Who knows, maybe visiting the destination wedding site will make a future with Alex seem like a reality.
Kade Webster just landed the biggest deal of his life with his company, Webster Select Realty, participating in the Colorado Springs Tour of Homes. He never imagined he would run into the woman who broke his heart—Caron Hollister—right when his career is taking off. Seeing her again, Kade can’t help but wonder why Caron walked away from him years ago, leaving him with no explanation. When Kade learns his home stager won’t be able to help with the Tour of Homes, he vaults past all the reasons he should stay away from Caron, and offers her a temporary job helping him on the project. This time, their relationship is purely business.
Spending time with Kade has Caron questioning everything. The man intrigues her—at times infuriates her—and reminds her of what she lost. Has she been settling for what everyone expects of her? Just because others believe she and Alex are an ideal couple, does that mean they should get married? And how can Caron say “I do” to one man when she’s wondering “what if?” about another?
Read a preview of “Almost Like Being In Love” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Beth K. Vogt is a nonfiction writer who said she’d never write fiction. After saying she’d never marry a doctor or anyone in the military, she is now happily married to a former Air Force family physician. Beth believes God’s best is often behind the door marked “never.” An established magazine writer and editor, she now writes inspirational contemporary romance because she believes there is more to happily ever after than the fairy tales tell us.
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by admin | Jun 21, 2016 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“More Than She Dreamt” is a sweet, historical romance novel that made me think of all the Grace Livingston Hill novels I devoured at one time of my life. I believe it was the dialogue that gave me that impression at first, then the lofty thoughts Danny had about Katie clinched it for me.
The story wasn’t all sweet and light though. Young widow Katie Jensen had been through some hard times and had sacrificed much for her children and had their well-being as her priority. When she felt the Lord prompt her to leave her uncle’s home, she left with bare minimum funds and her faith, buoyed by her young son’s constant reminders that “the Lord will provide”. And provide He did! Yet in the midst of that provision, Katie’s faith was put to the test over and over as danger stalked her more than once.
Character development in “More Than She Dreamt” was well done and the plot moved along at a fairly decent pace. Some readers might find the story just a bit too sweet but I felt that the sweetness was tempered well by the added danger and suspense. Then we can’t forget those precious children who provided abundant humor throughout the story.
“More Than She Dreamt” is a novel filled with hope and faith that demonstrates how important it is to trust and depend on the Lord and to follow His lead.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Celebrate Lit.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
It was more than she dreamt. But as the romance began to bud, she felt the thorns of a heartless beauty rise to tear it apart.
Young widow, Katie Jensen, endures patiently under her oppressive uncle in desolate Arizona Territory. She tries to keep her promise to her dead aunt to be a witness and take care of her uncle but when his tirades grow worse, she gathers her two precious little ones and runs.
Making their way to an unknown land, they come to the town of White Rock, which is strangely like the place in the dreams Katie has been having. They are welcomed into the cottage of a kindly grandmother who takes in borders.
When Danny, the older woman’s grandson, comes home, he finds surprises in store: a crisis, a beautiful young woman, and her adorable children who bring laughter and life into all their weary souls.
Katie is filled with hope when an unexpected romance sparks but there is a vindictive raven-haired beauty and an old enemy conspiring to put it out—permanently.
Will God give Katie rest as she and the family pray for their enemies?
Can she stand strong in her faith when fear overwhelms her?
Purchase your copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sandy Faye Mauck writes Historical Romance in the light of the gospel and with the heart of her Savior.
Slip into a comfy chair with a cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate and travel back to the first years after the turn of the century.
Enjoy faithful Christian characters who have come through a spiritual wilderness into a place of hope. Stories of charming romance sprinkled with humor and topped with redemption. And be sure not to put the cup too close to the edge of the table because there are enemies lurking about.
Sandy lives in her own happily-ever-after with her Bible doctrine writer husband in the west they love. They have five children and nine grandchildren. She enjoys crocheting (a different kind of yarn) and is also a professional artist.
Guest Post from Sandy Faye Mauck:
Hi everyone! Sandy Faye Mauck here! Today I launch my book on Celebrate Lit!
They say to write the book that is missing from your bookshelf. So I did. I wrote a story that brought the purity of a Christian romance with a touch of humor and endearing characters who live what they believe, with real enemies and redemptive grace.
More Than She Dreamt is set at the time just after the turn of the century. Probably my favorite time travel place if I had to choose because of the interesting changes and the lovely clothing and yet there was indoor plumbing, and lights, LOL!
My greatest writing inspiration (other than my Lord), was my favorite author, Grace Livingston Hill. She could tell a story, make you feel you were there in every sense. Grace could bring romance, excitement, and enemies and then touch your heart with a truth of God’s word that would penetrate your heart. I hope to do this as I write my heart and I add humor because that is who I am.
I hope you enjoy this Celebrate Lit Blog Tour and the special personal giveaway at the end!
Blog Tour Stops:
June 14: cherylbbookblog
June 15: Singing Librarian Books
June 16: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner
June 17: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
June 18: Bigreadersite
June 18: Cassandra M’s Place
June 19: A Greater Yes
June 19: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
June 20: Pause for Tales
June 21: Daysong Reflections
June 22: A Holland Reads
June 23: Splashes of Joy
June 23: Christian Bookaholic
June 24: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses
June 25: Red Headed Book Lady
June 25: It’s Storytime With Van Daniker
June 26: Bukwurmzzz
June 27: For the Love of books
Giveaway:
To celebrate her tour, Sandy is giving away a charming keepsake box filled with some Rose Arbor themed prizes. Enter here: https://promosimple.com/ps/9c26
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by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
My daughter and her husband have been living in a small town on the Oregon coast for the past six months as traveling physical therapy assistants so I have especially enjoyed reading the Hope Harbor series. I seriously doubt that they have encountered people such as those who inhabit the pages of these books. I would very much like them to encounter someone like Charlie and his taco stand.
I have long been a fan of Irene Hannon’s suspense novels and have been delighted to find she is equally adept at writing contemporary romance novels. One thing I particularly liked about “Sea Rose Lane” is that although a romantic relationship between Eric and BJ was expected, there was such a focus on their personal growth as well as their involvement with others. Through their helping others, they each found emotional healing and direction for their lives.
It was fun to reconnect with familiar characters from “Hope Harbor”, especially Charlie who had a knack of being at his taco stand at just the right time with just the right words of wisdom. Then there were the seagull couple and the burping seal who added the perfect touch of whimsy to the story.
I am loving this series and would like it to go on beyond the usual trilogy. I can’t wait for the next installment!
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Two people starting over . . . in a town known for second chances
After a devastating layoff, attorney Eric Nash heads back to Hope Harbor–only to discover that his childhood home is being transformed into a bed and breakfast. Instead of plotting his next career move in peace, he’s constantly distracted by noise, chaos–and BJ Stevens, the attractive but prickly blonde architect who’s invaded the house with her motley crew. As for BJ, her client’s son might be handsome, but after a disastrous romance, dating isn’t high on her agenda. Yet when they join forces for to help Hope Harbor seniors, might they also find healing, hope, and a new beginning themselves?
Come home to Hope Harbor–where hearts heal . . . and love blooms
Read an excerpt from “Sea Rose Lane” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
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by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have read numerous books by Melody Carlson in several genres. “All Summer Long” is not the best one I’ve read but it would definitely make a good take-along to the beach or summer vacation. While it does not contain a deep spiritual message as many of her novels do, it was fun and easy to read which is exactly what some of us need once in awhile.
The story itself features Tia, who has moved to San Francisco to work with her aunt to refurbish a luxury yacht into a restaurant. Upon her arrival, she is picked up at the airport by none other than the guy she crushed on during sailing camp years before and has dreamed about since their one shared kiss. Her hopes for romance are dashed when she learns that he is already engaged to a gorgeous gal who is difficult not to like. So we all know where this novel is headed don’t we? Well, the fun is all in finding out what happens.
“All Summer Long” is immensely readable even if I did get frustrated with both Tia and Leo often. I had to remind myself that these characters were young and young people do not always think straight when it comes to romance. The story is peppered with both humor and angst as well as delightful descriptions of the San Francisco area. I did like the fact that the story was resolved well without the fiance being portrayed as some evil woman. The book is a fun and clean romance that parents would not mind sharing with their teens.
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She’s ready to take on a new challenge. What she doesn’t expect is an old flame.
Tia D’Amico is thrilled to move to San Francisco to help her aunt transform an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant. What’s not to love? Sunset dinner cruises, posh wedding receptions–the possibilities are endless and far more appetizing than staying in a monotonous job in her Podunk hometown. Besides, some of her best memories are tied to San Francisco–especially the memory of Leo Parker, her crush from a long-ago sailing camp.
When Leo Parker himself turns out to be the yacht’s captain, Tia is floating on air. But will it all come crashing down around her when she discovers his heart belongs to someone else?
Get ready for a romantic summer in San Francisco, where the future glistens brighter than the Bay at sunset.
Read an excerpt from All Summer Long HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than five million. She is the author of several Christmas books from Revell, including the bestselling The Christmas Bus, The Christmas Dog, and Christmas at Harrington’s, which is being considered for a TV movie. She is also the author of many teen books, including Just Another Girl, Anything but Normal, Double Take, the Life at Kingston High series, and the Diary of a Teenage Girl series. She is the winner of a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice. Melody and her husband live in Oregon.
For more information about Melody visit her website at www.melodycarlson.com.
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by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
“Fading Starlight” was not what I expected but that is not a bad thing. It is actually a beautifully written novel that reveals some of the ways our choices can affect others and how it always pays to do the right thing – even if there are no discernible immediate results.
After a televised wardrobe malfunction tanked her promising fashion career, Lauren found herself without a job or much hope for one. Taking a low-paying job that included housing in a small town, Lauren hoped for a chance to regroup out of the spotlight. She is soon contacted by a reporter who claims to have proof that Lauren was not at fault for the wardrobe accident but her offer comes with strings attached. Tempted to cooperate with the reporter, especially after a couple of unpleasant encounters with her nearby neighbor, Lauren gradually realizes that the reporter is using her and decides to stand by her values.
I really enjoyed “Fading Starlight” with its focus on fashion design and old Hollywood. I had to admire Lauren’s determination to keep her integrity no matter the cost. Although at times that cost seemed to be too high, doing what was good and true paid off in the end. I love how God tends to reward those who attempt to follow His standards. I also liked the fact that this was not a romance novel although there was just a hint of it toward the end.
All-in-all, “Fading Starlight” was an excellent read that held my interest all the way through. Strong characters and an equally strong plot were realistic and compelling. I highly recommend this novel.
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Her Big Shot Blows Up on Her,
How Far Will One Woman Go to Regain Her Dream?
Lauren Summers is in hiding. Her fashion house internship was supposed to launch her career, but a red carpet accident has left her blackballed. The only job she can find comes with little pay, but at least it offers a free place to live–a rundown cottage in the shadow of a cliff-side mansion. Planning to live on savings until she figures out what’s next, she’s unprepared to be contacted by a reporter.
Kendall Joiner is researching Charlotte Montgomery, a former Hollywood ingénue who lives a reclusive life in the cliff-side mansion. Rumors have swirled for decades about Charlotte, and now Kendall wants to find the real story. In return, she may just have the key to getting Lauren back into the fashion world. Desperate to get her life back on track, Lauren’s not sure she can turn down the offer–but as she and Miss Montgomery get to know more about each other, Lauren realizes nothing is quite as it seems.
Read an excerpt from Fading Starlight HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Photo courtesy of Doug Ellis Photography
Kathryn Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. She is the acclaimed author of over a half-dozen novels, including Leaving Yesterday and A Promise to Remember, which were both finalists for the Carol Award in Women’s Fiction. Kathryn and her family make their home in Santa Barbara, California.
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Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of more than fifty novels, including One Perfect Spring, Hope Harbor, and Sea Rose Lane, as well as the Private Justice and Men of Valor suspense series. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, two Carol Awards, two Reviewers’ Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine, a Retailers’ Choice Award, three HOLT Medallions, two Booksellers’ Best Awards, and a National Readers’ Choice Award. She is also a two-time Christy Award finalist. Learn more at 
