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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by admin | Jun 17, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
In the third and final book of Varina Denman’s Mended Hearts series, readers become more acquainted with Lynda Turner, a character from the previous two books who was not always shown in a positive light. As I got to know her better in “Jilted” I felt that I understood her struggles and could both empathize with her and applaud her strength in view of the difficulties she had faced all her life. I also got to know Clyde a bit better and learned to like him too.
“Jilted” is one of those books that grabs you and won’t let go. There was a lot going on as this series worked its way toward a conclusion with unanswered questions solved and characters who were finally able to put the past behind them and move on with their lives. A mysterious discovery at the lake had more significance than anyone could have imagined and would impact Lynda’s life considerably. Then there is the character who is a fine example of the effect buried guilt can have on a person.
A well-written story with well-rounded characters, “Jilted” is a story of abandonment, betrayal, love, hope, loyalty, and redemption. I enjoyed the entire series and look forward to whatever this author will offer her readers next.
A copy of this book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can all things really work together for good, and can the joy of living be found once again? Don’t miss one woman’s story in book three, Jilted, of Varina Denman’s Mended Hearts series.
Lynda Turner has struggled with depression since her husband abandoned her and their young daughter fifteen years ago. Yet unexpected hope awakens when a local ex-convict shows interest. As long-hidden secrets resurface, Lynda must fight for her emotional stability and for a life where the shadow of shame is replaced by the light of love.
Jilted tells of a woman who has lost the joy of living, a man determined to draw her back toward happiness, and a town that must—once and for all—leave the past where it belongs. It is a gentle reminder that all things can work together for good.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Varina Denman is author of the Mended Hearts series and a native Texan. She spent her high school years in a rural town and now writes stories about the struggles women face in similar small town settings. She and her husband live near Fort Worth, where they enjoy spending time with their five mostly grown children.
Find out more about Varina at https://varinadenman.com.
Celebrate the release of Varina’s Jilted by entering to win a $50 gift card.
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A copy of Jilted to kick off a summer of reading
- A $50 Kohl’s gift card to make your summertime sweet
The giveaway ends on July 1st. The winner will be announced July 5th on Varina’s website.
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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 www.irenehannon.com.
