Robin E. Mason's Blog: Robin's Book Shelf, page 80
March 14, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Monday 15 March 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – FATE by NATASHA D. FRAZIER
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – FATE by NATASHA D. FRAZIER 
Melanie Bennett and Detective Brian Morris met over a year ago when he solved her best friend’s murder case, and now Nashville’s annual Christmas festivities have them crossing paths again, could it be fate?
Melanie Bennett has spent the last six months in therapy to erase the self-assigned blame and eradicate the night terrors that plagued her at every attempt to close her eyes after witnessing her best friend’s murder. The Christmas season always had a way of lifting her spirits, and this year is no different. The spark within her to live again couldn’t have come at a better time when she and Detective Brian Morris are reacquainted, but first, she must believe that she deserves happiness.
Will the circumstances of how they met prevent Melanie from taking a chance on love?
Brian was drawn to Melanie when he first laid eyes on her over a year ago; he wanted to ask her out, but the timing was all wrong. Expressing interest in her when she’d just lost her best friend was tacky, but fate dealt him another opportunity when he walked into her hair salon delivering flyers for the annual stuff the cruiser toy drive a year later. Though Brian desires love, will his unresolved issues with his mother get in the way?
Every moment spent with one another can only be described as fate – a power beyond human control. Will this Christmas season bring about the healing and love both Melanie and Brian crave?
Fate is book 2 in the Perfect Time for Love Series (Sweet Christian Romance).
Natasha has penned an award-winning devotional, The Life Your Spirit Craves and a Henri award nominated devotional, Not Without You: 365 Days in the Lord’s Presence. Natasha desires to encourage readers to live the life they have been created to live in God. Natasha’s first fiction book, Love, Lies & Consequences, was released on April 21, 2015, and earned The Readers’ Choice Award.
The Love, Lies & Consequences seems to be taking on a life of it’s own as books two and three delve deeper into the lives of the characters and how they deal with life’s issues. Natasha enjoys crafting stories that we can relate to and learn from. Visit Natasha’s website http://www.natashafrazier.com to sign up for her newsletter or to connect.
Natasha is also a motivational speaker, in much like her literary works, who speaks to encourage women to take their lives to the next level, release fear and become the women they have been predestined to be.
Natasha is a member of Higher Dimension Church where she has served as part of the women’s ministry, Virtue, leadership team. Natasha is married to Eddie Frazier and resides in Missouri City with him and their three children, Eden, Ethan and Emilyn.
This story opens with a sentence—nightmares and death and best friend—that grabs the reader! Then falls flat. I kept waiting for an explanation of what happened to Natalie, but it never came.
Whatever happened, it was a) apparently crime related—thus the investigation and the presence of Detective Brian Morris—and b) it traumatized Melanie.
Who hasn’t experienced trauma of some kind in their life? I appreciated the author’s sensitivity to Melanie’s caution. The twist with her therapist [SPOILER] was a highlight…
Honestly, I felt like this story read like a diary. A running tab of what was happening from day to day, some scenes even moment to moment. I kept waiting for some action or conflict, but there really wasn’t any.
That said, I enjoyed Brian and Melanie’s romance. With her reticence many guys would have backed off, but Brian didn’t and I applaud him for that.
This story has good “bones” but was bare. Adding some “meat” would have made it so much more engaging.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
THREE FEATHERS
I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
March 11, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 9 March 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – STARSTRUCK IN WILLOW FALLS by PAT NICHOLS
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – STARSTRUCK IN WILLOW FALLS by PAT NICHOLS
Two women whose dreams are about to come true find themselves in a town turned upside down.
As a Hollywood film crew and famous movie stars swoop into Willow Falls to film a full-length motion picture, the small town’s new normal as a popular North Georgia tourist destination is thrown into chaos.
Rachel Streetman fears her life-long dream to act is drifting into oblivion and leaving behind bitter regret. Weeks away from marrying Charlie Bricker, the manager of the town’s new winery, Rachel wonders if auditioning for a role in the movie will boost her lackluster career or open the door to a lifestyle incompatible with the small-town life she has come to accept.
Rachel’s twin sister, Emily Hayes, also has a dream—to be a famous author. But the release of her debut novel is upstaged by the Hollywood invasion. When she and Rachel accept the job as the director’s liaisons, their patience is stretched to the limit by starstruck residents.
Can these two sisters survive the chaos in Willow Falls and still achieve their dreams?
THE AUTHOR
Retired from a twenty-seven-year corporate career, Pat Nichols draws on her experience in seven different management positions working with hundreds of amazing women from all walks of life to create stories about women facing tension-laced challenges and heart-warming triumphs in the pursuit of their dreams. Her debut novel, The Secret of Willow Inn, Willow Falls series book one, released January, 2019. Book two, The Trouble in Willow Falls, releases November 4, 2019 and book three in 2020. Pat received a 2018 NGCWC Georgia Peach Awards for her short story, The Vet and Valentine’s Day, and a 2019 NGCWC Georgia Peach Award for Willow Falls series book three. She received the 2017 CRW Woman of the Year Award and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Word Weavers International. She has been featured on WATC Television Atlanta Alive and in Voyager Magazine http://voyageatl.com/interview/meet-pat-nichols-author-duluth/
FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE
MY REVIEWHow much drama can one story have?! Let me count the ways…
By now I feel I know my way around Willow Falls—I’ve read all three books in the series and have fallen in love with the town and its residents. Ms. Nichols dangled the carrot of movie star fame under the residents’ noses and waved the magic wand of rubbing elbows with Hollywood elite in circles above their collective heads. And the reaction of certain individuals was spot on. From wannabe stars to schmoozing with the director to displease townspeople.
The drama and turmoil Ms. Nichols threw her characters! Oh my goodness!
From Rachel’s upcoming wedding to her growing bond with Emily (the good drama) to the chaos the movie crew creates to the untimely appearance of [HUGE SPOILER] this story doesn’t just weave threads together but kinks them like jewelry in a box, snarled and tangled and hopeless.
Ms. Nichols twists and coils the threads, page after page, leaving the reader wondering if the poor people of Willow Falls will ever see the light of day again. Then, with great finesse, the author unravels one debacle after another. And tosses a grand surprise in at the very end!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Starstruck in Willow Falls, Pat Nichols,March 2, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 March 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – SING IN THE SUNLIGHT by KATHLEEN DENLY
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – SING IN THE SUNLIGHT by KATHLEEN DENLY
THE BLURBRichard Stevens isn’t who he thinks he is. Neither is the woman who now claims his last name.
Disfiguring scars stole Clarinda Humphrey’s singing career, her home, and her family, but she refuses to let her appearance steal her future. While attending The Young Ladies Seminary in 1858 Benicia, California, she finds a man who promises to love and cherish her. Instead he betrays her, leaving her with child, and Clarinda must take drastic measures to ensure her child doesn’t suffer for her foolishness.
Richard Stevens’s life hasn’t turned out as he expected, and when a shocking letter turns even his past into a mystery, he travels to San Francisco in search of guidance. On the way, he encounters a mysterious young woman hiding beneath a veil. That night he experiences a dream that sends him on a quest to find the bride God has chosen for him. He never imagines she’s already told everyone they’re married.
Unwilling to lie, nor accept a marriage of mere convenience, Richard wants the real thing. Yet Clarinda’s not interested in love, only a chance to save her child. Can he help her rise above the pain that runs deeper than her scars to accept a love worth every risk?
THE AUTHOR
Kathleen Denly writes historical romance stories to entertain, encourage, and inspire readers toward a better understanding of our amazing God and how He sees us. Award winning author of the Chaparral Hearts series, she also shares history tidbits, thoughts on writing, books reviews and more at KathleenDenly.com.
Website | Newsletter | FB Author Page | FB Reader Group
BookBub | Amazon | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest
MY REVIEWI didn’t connect with Eliza Brooks in Ms. Denly’s last book, Waltz in the Wilderness—but I sure related to Clarinda in this story! I never felt the need to hide my disfigurement, but I sure felt like I should be hidden away.
Oh, how I longed for Clarinda to let herself be loved! Page after page I urged her to accept not only Richard’s love and affection for her, but our Savior’s as well.
Richard! Oh, what an image of Christ he gave. Living his conviction to the fullest—almost too good to believe. But doesn’t Father God use each of that way? To display His love?
Two disparate people in the most intimate of relationships. Oh, Ms. Denly, what a conundrum! What a story! What are the odds?
The depth of understanding the author has to her characters, to the nature of a wounded soul, to the painstaking process of healing. And the patience of our Savior as we resist and buck His tender ministrations.
I read greedily, turning page after page, waiting to see if Clarinda ever received all that our Heavenly Father has to offer.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Sing in the Sunlight, Kathleen Denly, Chaparral Hearts, Waltz in the WildernessFebruary 24, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 23 February 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – HIS TO KEEP by SHERRINDA KETCHERSID
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – HIS TO KEEP by SHERRINDA KETCHERSID
He’s fighting for his inheritance—she’s marrying her sworn enemy.
When Ian McGowan attempts to claim Whitfield Castle as his rightful inheritance, he finds himself barred by a tempestuous lass who is entailed to be the bride of the castle’s new owner.
Claire Beaumont, the orphaned ward of Whitfield, has good reason to hate Scots, and she is not about to let a Scot enter her beloved home. But when the handsome knight steals into the castle and proves his claim on the land, she must face her ultimate nightmare—marriage to her sworn enemy—in order to save those she cares about most.
Restoring the failing Whitfield Castle while wooing his defiant intended proves more challenging than Ian anticipated. His struggles reach a crisis when his nemesis arrives at the castle, and he must overcome his past demons to prove his worth. He must fight for what is his to keep—and it could well cost him his heart.
Sherrinda Ketchersid is a lover of stories with happily-ever-after endings. Whether set in the past or present, romance is what she writes and where her dreams reside.
Sherrinda lives in north-central Texas with her preacher husband. With four grown children, three guys and a gal, she has more time and energy to spin tales of faith, fun, and forever love.
You can find with Sherrinda via her website at http://www.sherrinda.com. Connect with her on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook @sherrinda.
Dialogue can make or break it for this reader, and Ms. Ketchersid has totally “made it” with the characters in her story! Sufficient that I could ‘hear’ the heavy Scottish brogue, but not so overbearing that I felt like I was reading another language!
From the beginning—that scene with the garderobe chute!! OY!—and through to the last pages, something was always pressing against the main characters. I appreciated Claire’s guarded and defensive, nay offensive, and icy reception to “the Scots.”
Ian was none too happy with the condition required to claim the castle as his own. Yet to become a landowner would prove [SPOILER.] He fights valiantly, not only to restore Whitfield, but for the heart of his bride.
Ms. Ketchersid woos the reader into the story, then unfolds one twist after another, building the tension—and the romance—to the last page!
ROBIN’S FEATHERSALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
February 16, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Wednesday 17 February 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-ON-WEDNESDAY – BOOK REVIEW– THE HESITANT HEIRESS by DAWN CRANDALL
HE HESITANT HEIRESS by DAWN CRANDALLTUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-ON-WEDNESDAY – BOOK REVIEW– THE HESITANT HEIRESS by DAWN CRANDALL
Book: The Hesitant Heiress
Author: Dawn Crandall
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
THE BLURBAfter being unjustly expelled from the Boston Conservatory of Music, Amaryllis Brigham sees her dreams of founding a music academy in her hometown of Seattle, Washington, disappearing before her very eyes. Now, the only way to achieve her goal comes with high stakes for someone set on avoiding men as much as possible: Marry within the year to inherit the immense fortune of her estranged grandmother. Amaryllis reluctantly moves in to her aunt’s Boston home and rubs shoulders with fashionable society. Despite her own misgivings, she soon finds herself quickly falling in love with the most unlikely of men–Nathan Everstone, the envy of every eligible female, whose father has haunted her dreams for the decade following her mother’s tragic death. However, Nathan turns out to be much more than he seems…and everything she never knew she wanted. But just as everything Amaryllis has recently hoped for comes to fruition, it all falls apart when she finds that the real culprit who has been managing her life isn’t who she thought at all.
Click here to get your copy!
THE AUTHOR
Dawn Crandall’s debut Gilded Age Victorian romance, The Hesitant Heiress, was a 2015 ACFW Carol award finalist in the debut category and received the 2015 Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, the 2015 Write Touch Reader’s Choice Award and the 2015 Romancing the Novel Reader’s Choice Award. Her follow-up novel, The Bound Heart, received the 2016 Laurel Award from Clash of the Titles. Dawn earned a BA in Christian Education from Taylor University. She’s been balancing books and babies lately as her two sons were both born as the four books of her Everstone Chronicles series were being released from Whitaker House from 2014 to 2016. Dawn lives with her husband and two young sons on a hobby farm in her hometown in northeast Indiana.
Some things just float your boat, you know? What are some of yours? I’m thinking, for many of you, having piles of awesome newly released novels to read is one of those things. Do you remember what it was that you loved to do more than anything else… when you were a kid? Well, for me, at least, it hasn’t changed much. I remember being in third grade and KNOWING that I was meant to write books. But having ADD in the 80’s and feeling like I was a pretty lousy student through most of my school years sort of put my dreams of being a published author in the category of “pipe dream”. Then during my senior year of college, I had one glorious spring break week of creative thinking, and I came up with the name of the heroine I would (hopefully) write someday—Amaryllis Brigham. And I also came up with the last name of the hero, and the family I would write a series about—the Everstones.
Five years after I graduated from college, I got married. And because I had lots of extra time at that point, I decided to check out some books about character development from the library. Which was the first clue to my husband that I wanted to write a novel. Yes, I hadn’t even told him! Then another five years went by while I worked full time at a daycare. I had definitely thought more about writing it by then, but I didn’t really know how to start.
But then I did. At the age of 32, during January 2010, I finally started writing The Hesitant Heiress. I just dove in, half planned and half one-chapter-at-a-time. I love history so much, when I’m doing research the world as it was just comes to life in my imagination and the story possibilities are endless! And really, I wrote Nathan and Amaryllis’s story for myself—for the joy of writing! Creating story, I found, was my favorite hobby beyond reading them! I did have a dream once during the two year process of writing THH, and I very vaguely saw a cover face out on a shelf. But again, to me it seemed like an impossibility, and I just kept focused on the joy I attained from writing it. If you would have told me back then that that first novel I loved writing would be traditionally published and on the market two and a half years after I finished writing it, I would have laughed in your face! And then, when I first saw Amaryllis on the cover of that first book in my series of five… I thought back to the dream I had that one time, and she was it. The way Amaryllis Brigham is situated on the cover of my published novel was very similar to the vague book cover of my dream. God had done it; He had taken the biggest desire of my life, given me a dream even when I was too cautious to hope, and He had made it a possibility.
MY REVIEW* previously reviewed on my blog, Robin’s Nest, on 4 October 2016
https://robinsnest212.wordpress.com/2016/10/04/book-review-hesitant-heiress/
Writing in the first person, Ms. Crandall pulled me into this very personal telling of the story. As each of the events unfolded, I felt Amaryllis’ resolve to please her aunt, her resistance to marry in order to gain her inheritance. I felt her heart dream wither away.
Even as her objections to Nathan’s affections began to crumble, I felt the betrayal of her heart—and I as the reader was frustrated with her. But heart-logic is not so easily explained away, and lies that feed misconceptions fuel her resistance.
I was somewhat confused at first with locations and place names until it became more clear (to me) which place was where. But each location is important, and plays a specific role in the story.
Ms. Crandall is gifted at weaving her story, presenting authentic settings and conversations and character interactions. This is my first of Ms. Crandall’s stories, and I look forward to reading many more by her.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
To celebrate her tour, Dawn is giving away the grand prize package of the complete Everstone Chronicles series in paperback and 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.
https://promosimple.com/ps/10744/the-hesitant-heiress-celebration-tour-giveaway
BLOG STOPSLocks, Hooks and Books, February 11
Worthy2Read, February 11
Inklings and notions, February 12
Mia Reads, February 12
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 13
Labor Not in Vain, February 13
A Baker’s Perspective, February 14
deb’s Book Review, February 14
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 15
Rachael’s Inkwell, February 15
Rebecca Tews, February 16
Mypreciousbitsandmusings, February 16
Texas Book-aholic, February 17
Connie’s History Classroom, February 18
Blogging With Carol, February 18
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 19
Bliss, Books and Jewels, February 19
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 20
Stephanie’s Life of Determination, February 20
For Him and My Family, February 21
Simple Harvest Reads, February 22 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 22
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 23
Beauty in the Binding, February 23
Hallie Reads, February 24
Guild Master, February 24
February 15, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 16 February 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – BOOKERS ON THE ROCKS by CHAUTONA HAVIG
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – BOOKERS ON THE ROCKS by CHAUTONA HAVIG
ABOUT THE BOOK
Book: Bookers on the Rocks
Author: Chautona Havig
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
THE BLURB
If it ain’t broke, why’s she so intent on fixing it?
Tessa Booker hates romance.
For twenty-five years, Tessa Booker has insisted that romance is something Hollywood cooked up to sell books and movies. Yes, she knows the word existed before movies. She doesn’t care. That’s her story, and she’s sticking to it.
So when Ross gets a gentle nudge from Mallory Barrows to look into what Tessa’s doing every day while he’s at work, he discovers a romance in the works–one that sounds a little too “ripped from the pages” of his life!
Who is this woman, and what has she done with his wife?
Armed with advice from 101 Ways to Romance Your Wife and a copy of the manuscript he printed while she was napping, he’s determined to figure out what’s up with his wife… and if maybe a little romance wouldn’t be a good thing after all.
In a twist of the “on the rocks trope,” this book introduces the next island in the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.
The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.
Click here to get your copy!
THE AUTHOR
Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her at chautona.com and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.
MORE FROM CHAUTONA
Who Needs Romance? My Marriage Is Great as It Is!
Writing a book about a couple who are in love, devoted to each other, and don’t have marriage problems is… challenging. Let’s face it. Most books about married couples, especially ones “on the rocks,” are going to have fights, an affair (at least of the emotional variety), or some big thing threatening to send them straight to divorce court.
Mine doesn’t.
In fact, Bookers on the Rocks shows what happens when couples become too comfortable in their routines—so comfortable, in fact, that they become blind to each other’s needs. If you asked Tessa Booker if anything is wrong in her marriage, she’d say no. If you asked her if she wanted anything different, she’d say no. The age old, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality.
Still, if you look at stories in Scripture, you see deep love and even romance in some places. Elkanah, who loved his wife enough to say, “Am I not more to you than ten sons?” Jacob who worked fourteen years to marry the woman he loved. Solomon and his love for the Shulamite woman. While the first two do not make me squirm, Solomon does. That book… oh, that book.
What I think Song of Solomon does is remind us of the Lord’s wooing of His people and how invested the Shulamite woman was in being delighted in her beloved—in all of him. If that isn’t a picture of how we should devote ourselves to our Lord, I don’t know what is.
In Bookers on the Rocks, I explore the possibility that those of us who aren’t naturally romantic might just be missing a vital ingredient in our marriages. A body can look and feel perfectly healthy for years—even decades. But if some essential nutrient is missing in a person’s diet, eventually that body will show it in some way. A lack of calcium can create brittle bones. No one sees the problem until a slight stumble turns into a nasty break.
Did it change how I view my marriage? No… not yet. Then again, yes it did, too. I’m more… aware of what is going on in my marriage these days. I doubt candlelight and roses will ever become a thing in our relationship, but translating what romance might mean and look like to my husband has become something I do think about from time to time. That probably means more Wienerschnitzel and less broccoli, but hey. He did a lot of dishes, dinner, and diapers (my perfect three Ds of romance) when our kids were small. I can endure a hot dog or three thousand, right?
MY REVIEW
This story had so many elements to love I don’t know where to begin!!! The honesty, the authenticity of Ross and Tessa’s relationship. Talk about complacency, taking someone for granted!
The secret desires of the heart, the hidden fears. The passive-dismissive “it’s okay” attitude.
And to unearth the truth—and realize her fear—through writing of all things! An author writing a story about an author writing a story…
Oh! How I related to Tessa! Not so much in marriage (mine didn’t survive) but in the closeted longings. The sense that I wasn’t worth “upsetting the apple cart.” The mentality of being the one to (micro) manage EVERYthing!
And Ross. Poor clueless guy. He was doing his best, doing what he thought he should do. What he thought his wife wanted…
And underneath, all those roiling needs and emotions…
If Ms. Havig was a favorite author before (she was!) she’s a top favorite now! Her writing, nay, storytelling is beyond descriptive—it is living and breathing, whispering the story into the mind and heart of the reader. Her characters are dimensional, her dialogue crisp and true. She wove the gospel into this story like a finely stitched tapestry, the golden threads sparkling in the lives of her characters. And, as He is wont to do, Ms. Havig credits Him with the nudge of wisdom and discernment, even when we—Ross and Tessa—don’t realize it’s Him.
Ms. Havig took the “on the rocks” trope and twisted it into something entirely different!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and copy of the book!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/10740/bookers-on-the-rocks-celebration-tour-giveaway
BLOG STOPS
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 10
Livin’ Lit, February 10
lakesidelivingsite, February 11
Sara Jane Jacobs, February 11
She Lives to Read, February 12
Texas Book-aholic, February 12
Book of Ruth Ann, February 12
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, February 13
Rebekah Reads, February 13
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 14
Batya’s Bits , February 14
Inklings and notions, February 15
Simple Harvest Reads, February 15 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 16
Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 16
Robin’s Nest, February 16
Lots of Helpers, February 17
Mypreciousbitsandmusings, February 17
Splashes of Joy, February 18
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 18
Artistic Nobody, February 19 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, February 19
For Him and My Family, February 20
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, February 20
CarpeDiem, February 20
deb’s Book Review, February 21
Connect in Fiction, February 21
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 22
Blogging With Carol, February 22
Blossoms and Blessings, February 23
Godly Book Reviews, February 23
Pause for Tales, February 23
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Bookers on the Rocks, Chautona Having, Independence Island Series, Celebrate Lit Publicity
February 14, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Monday 15 February 2021 – NEW WEEK NEW FACE – GUEST POST – KATHLEEN DENLY
NEW WEEK NEW FACE – GUEST POST – KATHLEEN DENLY5 FAST FACTS ABOUT ENGAGEMENT RINGS THROUGH THE AGES +GIVEAWAY!
Hello! I am so happy to be visiting Robin’s Nest today so that I can share with you five fast facts about engagement rings that I learned or was reminded of while doing research for book two in my Chaparral Hearts series, Sing in the Sunlight. But first, here’s a little bit about the book:
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Sing in the Sunlight
Series: Chaparral Hearts
Genre: Historical Christian Romance
Length: 402 pages
Publisher: Wild Heart Books
Release Date: March 2, 2021
BOOK BLURB
Richard Stevens isn’t who he thinks he is. Neither is the woman who now claims his last name.
Disfiguring scars stole Clarinda Humphrey’s singing career, her home, and her family, but she refuses to let her appearance steal her future. While attending The Young Ladies Seminary in 1858 Benicia, California, she finds a man who promises to love and cherish her. Instead he betrays her, leaving her with child, and Clarinda must take drastic measures to ensure her child doesn’t suffer for her foolishness.
Richard Stevens’s life hasn’t turned out as he expected, and when a shocking letter turns even his past into a mystery, he travels to San Francisco in search of guidance. On the way, he encounters a mysterious young woman hiding beneath a veil. That night he experiences a dream that sends him on a quest to find the bride God has chosen for him. He never imagines she’s already told everyone they’re married.
Unwilling to lie, nor accept a marriage of mere convenience, Richard wants the real thing. Yet Clarinda’s not interested in love, only a chance to save her child. Can he help her rise above the pain that runs deeper than her scars to accept a love worth every risk?
https://youtu.be/t8ZqDYJIjDA ]Preorder your copy today!
Amazon | Apple Books | Barnes & Noble | Books-A-Million | Kobo
FIVE FAST FACTS
Now, without further ado here are five fast facts about the history of engagement rings:
Did you know that rings made of braided reeds were first exchanged by wedded couples in Ancient Egypt as symbols of eternity? They were worn on the third finger of the left hand because of the belief that a vein that runs from that finger directly to the heart (known today as the vena amoris). While there is a vein like this (sort of), it is mirrored by a similar vein in the right hand and isn’t exactly a one lane highway. It branches off like any other vein in our body as part of our intricate and complex network of veins.
Some scholars believe engagement rings were used during the Middle Ages to ensure that impending marriages were made public in advance. If you read regency romance novels or watch regency romance movies you’ve probably heard about “the reading of the banns” being required to take place days or weeks prior to a wedding ceremony. It’s thought that this practice developed in parallel with the tradition of engagement rings.
Prior to the twentieth century, engagement rings were not universally expected. It was not at all uncommon for the engagement ring to be skipped and a wedding ring to be the first ring a woman received from her betrothed. This was particularly true the farther down the social ladder a couple found themselves.
In Sing in the Sunlight, my heroine, Clarinda, is presented with not one, not two, but five rings (one engagement ring and two different sets of engagement and wedding rings) given to her by three different gentlemen. Each ring came with its own history and thus a different design. One ring was an heirloom and its oval-cut ruby surrounded by tiny gold beads reflects the era in which it would originally have been made. Another has prongs that encage its diamond with claws, known as a belcher setting. The design both symbolizes Clarinda’s situation and reflects the changing jewelry fashions. The last engagement ring…well, you’ll just have to read the book to learn more about that particular ring.
GIVEAWAY
Now I want to learn about you! If you’re married, how did your husband propose? If you’re single, have you given any thought to the type of ring you might want someday? Leave your answer in the comments below to be entered for the giveaway.
For extra entries: I’d love to see pictures of your rings (whether engagement or another kind), so please share a picture on social media and tag me @KathleenDenly on Twitter or Instagram and @KathleenDenly.author on Facebook.
Be sure to record your efforts in the rafflecopter for official entries in my giveaway for one digital copy of book one in the Chaparral Hearts series, Waltz in the Wilderness! (If you already own a copy and you win, you’re welcome to choose a friend or family member to receive your prize.)
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/a61ba5d914/?
PREORDER BONUS
In celebration of this second book in Kathleen’s Chaparral Hearts series, she’s offering preorder bonuses. These include a set of exclusive coloring pages (hand drawn by Kathleen for this novel), and an MP3 recording of the hymn referenced in the book (God Moves in a Mysterious Way), performed by Kathleen’s wonderful mother.
Anyone who preorders Sing in the Sunlight no later than February 28, 2021 can register to receive their preorder bonuses. To register, email your proof of preorder purchase to kdpreorderbonuses@gmail.com no later than February 28, 2021. A proof of purchase is typically a screenshot of your receipt. Please do not include any personal information such as physical mailing address or account numbers when submitting your proof of purchase. Preorder bonuses will be emailed on the day of the book’s release to all who register.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kathleen Denly writes historical romance stories to entertain, encourage, and inspire readers toward a better understanding of our amazing God and how He sees us. Award winning author of the Chaparral Hearts series, she also shares history tidbits, thoughts on writing, books reviews and more at KathleenDenly.com.
Website | Newsletter | FB Author Page | FB Reader Group
BookBub | Amazon | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest
February 7, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Monday 8 February 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – DRIVEN by SARA DAVISON
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – FEATURED BOOK – DRIVEN by SARA DAVISON
Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Driven by Sara Davison, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Driven
Series: Night Guardians #3
Author: Sara Davison
Publisher: Mountain Brook Ink
Release Date: February 1, 2021
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense
THE BLURBChildren aren’t the only ones who can disappear.
Driven by ongoing grief and relentless dreams, Holden Kelly is determined to track down the child his brother Gage abducted eight years earlier. The kidnapping that saved Matthew Gibson’s life had cost Gage his. Proving his brother hadn’t sacrificed his life for nothing might be the only way Holden can start fully living his again. And it could be the last chance he has to find his way back to the wife he loves but who is also mired in grief and a crisis of faith.
Mikayla Grant has nightmares of her own. A road trip with private investigator Jax Rodriguez—a man she is drawn to even though his primary goal seems to be to drive her crazy—can’t be the way to heal from a terrible loss. Can it?
As Holden, Mikayla, and Jax follow the missing child’s trail from Toronto to Chicago, their mission is not as secret as they thought. Someone knows they are coming and will stop at nothing to prevent them from finding Matthew.
And to make sure that no one ever hears from the three of them again.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub
OTHER BOOKS IN THIS SERIES
Sara Davison is the author of three romantic suspense series—The Seven Trilogy, The Night Guardians, and The Rose Tattoo Trilogy. She has been a finalist for ten national writing awards, including Best New Canadian Christian author, a Carol, a Selah, and two Daphne du Maurier Awards for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. She is a Word and Cascade Award winner. She currently resides in Ontario, Canada with her husband Michael and their three children. The words on the mug she uses every morning pretty much sum up her life—I just want to sleep, drink coffee, and make stuff up. Get to know Sara better at www.saradavison.org and @sarajdavison.
CONNECT WITH SARA: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
MY REVIEWMs. Davison plunges the reader headlong into a heart wrenching tragedy. Taut storytelling, riveting plotline, the author gives the reader a page-turning, thrilling ride.
If the story wasn’t already compelling enough, Ms. Davison reaches into the human heart, drawing us through the journey of grief. The trauma to the heart, the devastation to relationships. The thin grip on self-preservation, and the journey back to faith and wholeness.
Ms. Davison broaches the subject of child abduction, and neatly twists the threads of his rescue against the seeming logic and defense of his captors, pulling the reader into the action. The juxtaposition of “rescuing” children from abusive situations against the web of red tape involved within the system.
The uneasy rapport between Holden, Mikayla, and Jax gives a dimension of reality. Holden’s grief, Mikayla’s history, and Jax’s mysterious [SPOILER], as their rapport builds into trust.
So many elements in this story that touch this reader’s heart.
ROBIN’S FEATHERSALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a paperback copy of Driven and a $10 Amazon Gift Card!
Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 1, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 8, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
ENTER GIVEAWAY HEREFollow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Driven, Sara Davison, Night Guardians, JustRead PublicityFebruary 3, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 2 February 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – BEAUTY AMONG RUINS by J’NELL CIESIELSKI
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – BEAUTY AMONG RUINS by J’NELL CIESIELSKI 
ABOUT THE BOOK
Book: Beauty Among Ruins
Author: J’Nell Ciesielski
Genre: Historical Romance
Release Date: January 12, 2021
THE BLURBAmerican socialite Lily Durham is known for enjoying one moment to the next, with little regard for the consequences of her actions. But just as she is banished overseas to England as a “cure” for her frivolous ways, the Great War breaks out and wreaks havoc. She joins her cousin in nursing the wounded at a convalescent home deep in the wilds of Scotland at a crumbling castle where its laird is less than welcoming.
Alec MacGregor has given his entire life to preserving his home of Kinclavoch Castle, but mounting debts force him to sell off his family history bit by bit. Labeled a coward for not joining his countrymen in the trenches due to an old injury, he opens his home to the Tommies to make recompense while he keeps to the shadows. But his preference for the shadows is shattered when a new American nurse comes streaming into the castle on a burst of light.
Lily and Alec are thrown together when a series of mysterious events threatens to ruin the future of Kinclavoch. Can they put aside their differences to find the culprit before it’s too late, or will their greatest distraction be falling in love?
Click here to get your copy!
THE AUTHOR
With a passion for heart-stopping adventure and sweeping love stories, J’nell Ciesielski weaves fresh takes into romances of times gone by. When not creating dashing heroes and daring heroines, she can be found dreaming of Scotland, indulging in chocolate of any kind, or watching old black and white movies. Winner of the INSPY and the Maggie Award, she is a Florida native who now lives in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and lazy beagle. Learn more at www.jnellciesielski.com.
MORE FROM J’NELLInspiration for Beauty Among Ruins
Once again, blame it on Downton Abbey. This time on Lady Rose. She was impulsive, spoiled, a free spirit, yet with a good heart. I knew I wanted to take on the challenge of writing a heroine like her. A character who starts off one way and by the end of the book has completely charmed you over. So I started writing and everything was going great until … it wasn’t. The plot just stopped on me. No matter how hard I tried the story refused to reveal itself to me which is incredibly frustrating for someone who doesn’t like to give up once they’ve started something. But I had to. In the end, I had to put the story, affectionately titled Love on the Limp, away for several months while I wrote The Socialite. Then one day the story clicked. It was meant to be a WWI telling on the classic Beauty and the Beast story. Everything fell into place and the story and characters burst onto the page in glorious technicolor.
Lily and Alec took me by surprised with how much I fell in love with them. Bubbly Lily and brooding Alec. Never had two more opposites been so perfect for one another (at least in my writing experience). They had so many obstacles to overcome, many of them self-imposed, that I often found myself in tears over their heartaches, but golly gumdrops when they came together, boy o boy were there fireworks!
You may have also noticed that the story is set in Scotland because I happen to believe that every good story is set there. I had the privilege of staring at pictures of this breathtaking landscape for months so I could imagine the characters strolling among the heather and watching the river twist through the green moors. To me, nothing rivals the awe inspiring beauty of a certain place, and hopefully readers will feel that through these pages.
MY REVIEWWhen Lily Durham shows up at Alec MacGregor’s home, she’s the unstoppable force that runs roughshod over an immoveable object—Alec.
Feeling that her fun-loving nature serves no purpose, Lily can’t help but toss confetti of fun and joy into her every circumstance. And at Kinclavoch Castle, she just might realize that laughter truly is the best medicine. And her seeming frivolity truly is her best gift.
Lily’s sunshine spills into Alec’s shadows, both of his heart and of his home, while his solid and staid nature tempers her impetuous tendencies.
As they navigate new territory together and overcome one obstacle after another, they take on the most daunting task of all—their hearts.
Ms. Ciesielski’s writing is a wonderful mix of color and emotion, vivid setting and depth of emotion. Like an artist’s acrylic pour (this reader’s newest artistic outlet) each element shifts together with the other, creating a most illustrious masterpiece. Like veins in a piece of marble.
ROBIN’S FEATHERSALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
To celebrate her tour, J’Nell is giving away the grand prize of a paperback copy of the book and an audiobook copy of The Socialite!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/10688/beauty-among-ruins-celebration-tour-giveaway
BLOG STOPSThrough the Fire Blogs, January 27
Fiction Aficionado, January 27
Sara Jane Jacobs, January 27
Wishful Endings, January 28
Genesis 5020, January 28
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 28
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 29
lakesidelivingsite, January 29
Reflections From my Bookshelves, January 29
Connect in Fiction, January 30
Connie’s History Classroom, January 30
CarpeDiem, January 30
Artistic Nobody, January 31 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 31
Rachael’s Inkwell, January 31
Where Faith and Books Meet, February 1
Rebecca Tews, February 1
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 1
Texas Book-aholic, February 2
As He Leads is Joy, February 2
Robin’s Nest, February 2
Older & Smarter?, February 3
Mypreciousbitsandmusings, February 3
Locks, Hooks and Books, February 3
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, February 4
Remembrancy, February 4
Inklings and notions, February 4
Mia Reads, February 5
Joanne Markey, February 5
Splashes of Joy, February 5
Mary Hake, February 5
Betti Mace, February 6
The Christian Fiction Girl, February 6
For Him and My Family, February 6
She Lives to Read, February 7
deb’s Book Review, February 7
The Write Escape, February 7
Simple Harvest Reads, February 8 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
Novels Corner, February 8
To Everything There Is A Season, February 8
Blossoms and Blessings, February 9
Pause for Tales, February 9
Lis Loves Reading, February 9
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Beauty Among Ruins, J’nell Ciesielski, Celebrate Lit PublicityJanuary 30, 2021
BLOGWORDS – Saturday 30 January 2021 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – OF INK AND SEA by CLARISSA KAE
TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – OF INK AND SEA by CLARISSA KAE
ABOUT THE BOOK
Book: Of Ink and Sea
Author: Clarissa Kae
Genre: Romance with historical and paranormal elements
THE BLURBThe Bristol Sea divides Cornwall and Wales—and sings an enticing tale to Sienna Rothesay, an English born, American raised photographer. Since childhood, she’s fought the temptation to listen to its siren song.
When Ioan Waif, an enigmatic neighbor from her Welsh days calls her home to care for her ailing grandfather, Sienna is faced with an old myth that hints at a nefarious secret, linking her ancestors with Ioan’s.
To uncover the truth, she must walk the blurry path between legend and reality but with more questions than answers, she fears giving into her heart will cost Sienna her head.
Click here to get your copy!
THE AUTHOR
Clarissa Kae is a preeminent voice whose professional career began as a freelance editor in 2007. She’s the former president of her local California Writers Club after spending several years as the Critique Director.
Since her first novel, she’s explored different writing genres and created a loyal group of fans who eagerly await her upcoming release. With numerous awards to her name, Clarissa continues to honor the role of storyteller.
Aside from the writing community, she and her daughters founded Kind Girls Make Strong Women to help undervalued nonprofit organizations—from reuniting children with families to giving Junior Olympic athletes their shot at success.
She lives in the agricultural belly of California with her family and farm of horses, chickens, dogs and kittens aplenty.
MORE FROM CLARISSAI was supposed to go to Wales for my 40th birthday which is this month January 2021. But COVID happened. Instead, I delved into Wales for a setting and never looked back.
MY REVIEWThough written with vivid imagery and sweet prose, this story was not a good fit for this reader. I loved – j’adore – the setting #allthingsgreatbritain and the tragic connection between the two families.
But I couldn’t get past the mystic elements, seeing an image of someone long dead. I, too, love nature, and fully believe Father God speaks to us in dreams and visions and song. This story excluded God in this equation – at least I saw no connection.
The dialogue (this reviewer’s pet peeve) was sharp and bold, and authentic. True conversation, not scripted words.
For as much adventure as this story held, the current day story felt stalled to me. There were numerous typos and grammatical errors, and a handful of malapropisms.
All that said, I felt deeply Sienna’s unrest. Her sense of isolation, even – especially – within her own family. I longed to see her embrace her home and heritage – and happiness. I envisioned Ioan as rugged and dashing, and utterly handsome, and couldn’t wait for the two of them to calm the storm and embrace each other.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
TWO FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
To celebrate her tour, Clarissa is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon, $50 Barnes And Noble and $50 Target gift cards!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/105a9/of-ink-and-sea-celebration-tour-giveaway
BLOG STOPSRebecca Tews, January 18
Sara Jane Jacobs, January 18
Texas Book-aholic, January 19
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 20
Inklings and notions, January 21
Wishful Endings, January 21
For Him and My Family, January 22
deb’s Book Review, January 23
Blogging With Carol, January 23
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 24
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 25
Heidi and Books, January 25
Artistic Nobody, January 26 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Connie’s History Classroom, January 27
Holly Jo Morris, January 27
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 28
The Write Escape, January 29
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 29
Godly Book Reviews, January 30
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 31
Mia Reads, January 31
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, Of Ink and Sea, Clarissa Kae, Celebrate Lit Publicity
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