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Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Blog Tour - Feasted On: A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn by Shelley Shepard Gray | Review & 5-Book Giveaway(s)

Today I'm turning my blog over to Shelley Shepard Gray, with a review of her recent release "A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn," which happens to be the THIRD BOOK in her Amish Brides of Pinecraft Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAY(s) (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from September 15 - 30, 2015 | Giveaway ends on September 30, 2015]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 288; Library Binding - Pages: 500; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1576 KB; Audio CD - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: September 15, 2015 | Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers : Avon Books : Inspire | Obtained: Litfuse Publicity Group / edelweiss

"A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn" [Amish Brides of Pinecraft Series, Book 3] by Shelley Shepard Gray (aka Shelley Gray)

Author's Book Description : Beloved bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray returns with the third book in her Amish Brides of Pinecraft series—a story of second chances for two young single parents…and the wedding that brings them together.

Emma Keim was heartbroken when her husband Sanford passed away, leaving her to raise three young daughters alone. In the years since, her relatives have made it no secret that they expect Emma to remain a widow, mourning Sanford indefinitely. But when she meets Jay Hilty—a widower with three young sons of his own—Emma is delighted to have a new friend who understands her struggles. And it doesn’t hurt that he’s also handsome and kind. Still, Emma is dismayed that her family is so opposed to their friendship—and the idea of it ever becoming anything more. She honors her husband’s memory every day, but is she destined to be alone forever?

Jay knows that few people his age understand what it’s like to lose a spouse, and Emma’s gentleness with his boys stirs something in his heart that’s been quiet for far too long. But when Jay’s oldest son becomes engaged to a local woman, suddenly Jay, Emma, and their children are swept up in wedding preparations. Witnessing his son’s joy, Jay wonders if it’s time for him to move forward, too, and find happiness again.

Jay wants to court Emma in earnest, but Emma’s relatives remain troubled by the prospect of her moving on. Once again, love has come to Pinecraft. But can these two parties of four become a happy, healthy family of eight?

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! Over a year ago, Jay’s wife passed away, so now he and his sons move to Pinecraft, Florida to make a new life for themselves. While waiting for their new home to be ready Jay meets Emma, an Amish mother of three little girls who is a widower too, who is chasing after her naughty beagle. Has fate/God set them on a path to meet and become something more? Or will moving forward be too hard for them and those around them?

It started and ended with a mischievous dog, named Frankie. He gets into EVERYTHING when it comes to getting the food he wants, and because he’s adorable he gets away with it more than he should. However, if it wasn’t for Frankie’s antics it’s doubtful that Jay and Emma would have gotten as close as they did. Their relationship grows quickly in this novel but I love how it was all handled and the calming effect they have for one another. I could definitely read more about these two if I had the chance. The love that they show for one another and their unique situation kept reminding me of the 1968 version of “Yours, Mine, and Ours,” even though there is a lot more children in the movie.

The other major relationship that comes together in this novel is between Ben, Jay’s eldest son, and Tricia, Beverly’s—the manager of the Orange Blossom Inn—niece. They have a bit of a whirlwind romance but it’s very sweet. Also, I thought it was cute how their relationship grew from a sort of friendship into romance.

Lastly, this novel is the first out of the series to truly update you on all previous main characters! It was fun to see how everyone was up too.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel and series to those looking for an entertainingly sweet contemporary Amish romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : The Promise of Palm Grove (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : The Proposal At Siesta Key (Book 2) | IndieBound (Paperback) : A Wish on Gardenia Street (Novella 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft (Book 4) | IndieBound (MP3 CD) : The Promise of Palm Grove (Book 1) | IndieBound (MP3 CD) : The Proposal At Siesta Key (Book 2) | IndieBound (MP3 CD) : A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft (Book 4) | IndieBound (Library Binding, Large Print) : The Promise of Palm Grove (Book 1) | IndieBound (Library Binding, Large Print) : The Proposal At Siesta Key (Book 2) | IndieBound (Library Binding, Large Print) : A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft (Book 4) | Kobo (e-Book) : The Promise of Palm Grove (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : The Proposal At Siesta Key (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : A Wish on Gardenia Street (Novella 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft (Book 4) | Alibris (Paperback) : The Promise of Palm Grove (Book 1) | Amazon.com (e-Book) : The Promise of Palm Grove (Book 1) | Amazon.com (e-Book) : The Proposal At Siesta Key (Book 2) | Amazon.com (e-Book) : A Wish on Gardenia Street (Novella 1) | Amazon.com (e-Book) : A Christmas Bride in Pinecraft (Book 4)


IndieBound (Paperback) : A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn (Book 3)

IndieBound (MP3 CD) : A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn (Book 3)

IndieBound (Library Binding, Large Print) : A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn (Book 3)

Kobo (e-Book) : A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn (Book 3)


My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1 | Book 2

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Hidden | Joyful

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2015 | Second Sentence Saturday: The Proposal At Siesta Key

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: A WEDDING AT THE ORANGE BLOSSOM INN | A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn - Overview


So happy to be joining my friends over at Amish Wisdom this week! My husband is still shaking his head about the three things I'm passionate about. : )
Posted by Shelley Shepard Gray on Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: THE PROMISE OF PALM GROVE | The Promise of Palm Grove - Overview | Pinterest: THE PROPOSAL AT SIESTA KEY | The Proposal At Siesta Key - Overview | Pinterest: A Wish on Gardenia Street | A Wish on Gardenia Street - Overview | Introducing the Bride Blog | Bride Blog: Perfect Proposals | A Visit to NYC | Bride Blog: Engagements | A Glimpse Behind the Scenes: Cover Art by Gail Dubov

Book Teaser(s) :

A WEDDING AT THE ORANGE BLOSSOM INN by Shelley Shepard Gray -- Read my #bookreview, #blogtour, & #giveaway here:...

Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Tuesday, September 15, 2015

A WEDDING AT THE ORANGE BLOSSOM INN by Shelley Shepard Gray -- Read my #bookreview, #blogtour, & #giveaway here:...

Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Book Preview :
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Shelley, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Since 2000, Shelley has sold over forty novels to numerous publishers, including HarperCollins, Harlequin, and Abingdon Press. She has been interviewed by NPR, and her books have been highlighted in numerous publications, including USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.

Under the name Shelley Shepard Gray, Shelley writes Amish romances for HarperCollins’ inspirational line, Avon Inspire. Her recent novel, "The Protector," the final book in her "Families of Honor" series, hit the New York Times List, and her previous novel in the same series, "The Survivor," appeared on the USA Today bestseller list. Shelley has won the prestigious Holt Medallion for her books, "Forgiven" and "Grace," and her novels have been chosen as Alternate Selections for the Doubleday/Literary Guild Book Club. Her first novel with Avon Inspire, "Hidden," was an Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist.

Shelley also writes historical, western inspirational romances for Abingdon Press as Shelley Gray. Her first novel with Abingdon, "A Texan’s Promise," was released in October 2011 and has earned glowing reviews.

In addition to her writing as Shelley Shepard Gray, Shelley has written a dozen novels for Harlequin American Romance under the pseudonym Shelley Galloway. Her first novel with Harlequin, "Cinderella Christmas," reached number six on the Waldenbooks Bestseller list, and her second book for the American Romance line, Simple Gifts, won RT Magazine’s Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Harlequin American Romance of 2006.

Her written essays have appeared on CNN.com

Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in education. She now lives in southern Ohio and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two children in college, and is an active member of her church. She serves on committees, volunteers in the church office, and currently leads a Bible study group, and she looks forward to the opportunity to continue to write novels that showcase her Christian ideals.

When she's not writing, Shelley often attends conferences and reader retreats in order to give workshops and publicize her work. She’s attended RWA’s national conference six times, the ACFW conference and Romantic Times Magazine's annual conference as well as traveled to New Jersey, Birmingham, and Tennessee to attend local conferences.

Shelley is a member of RWA’s Published Author chapter, ACFW, and the Faith Hope and Love Chapter of RWA. Please visit www.shelleyshepardgray.com to learn more about Shelley and her books.




Giveaway(s)!! :

When widow Emma’s family opposes her new friendship with widower Jay, she begins to wonder if she’ll be alone forever. Don't miss Shelley Shepard Gray's third book, "A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn," in the Amish Brides of Pinecraft series! A wedding brings together two young widowed parents, and once again, love has come to Pinecraft. But can these two parties of four become a happy, healthy family of eight?

Enter to win a copy of A Wedding at the Orange Blossom Inn—five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced October 1 on Shelley’s blog!

orangeblossom-400

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Litfuse's other Blog Tour Reviews for this novel!!



Find Shelley Shepard Gray :

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Made the Grade: Just Imagine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Format: Paperback | Pages: 372 | Release Date: September 2001 | Publisher: Avon Books

"Just Imagine" by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

My Book Summary : This is a historic romance book that was set in a time period right after the American Civil War (also known as the War Between the States) happened. A time where the south was still smarting at being told what they could do with their property/possessions. Also, it was time where women had no rights unless they were single/spinsters.

For Kit (Katharine Louise) she was an eighteen-year-old girl from South Carolina, who has lost all of her family and just found out that a Mr. Baron Cain just got ownership of her family's plantation (Risen Glory). She is more tomboy then debutante. Also, she plans on killing Mr. Cain if it the last thing she does. So, she takes a train to New York City, finds Cain's residence, and plans on tracking his moves to find the best opportunity. However, she doesn't expect to get caught on her first night of hiding on his property by Cain himself! She decides to say she was looking for a job, and with her appearance -- looking like a fourteen-year-old boy, she gets hired as Cain's new stable boy.

Kit only has a week before she needs to leave so she tries to do what she told (for the most part), even if her mouth (with all the cussing, etc) gets away from her. But soon both of them are in for a shock -- Cain finds out that he's the owner of Risen Glory, that his stable boy is actually an eighteen-year-old girl with plans to murder him, but they both find that along with the plantation he has become the guardian of Kit until she turns 23 years old and can gain her inheritance or she marries (which she has no intention in ever doing).

So now instead of killing him, since Kit decides she just can't do that, she plans to do everything within her power to get her beloved home back from this handsome and dangerous man. What links will both of them go to keep their pride at all costs? Read to find out ...

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars! I don't read many historical romances (or if I do most are set in England, not America), but for the setting I feel this book was very cute and true to that time period ... while sticking to how this author writes her stories best! I was kind of disappointed with how the characters played out the situations ... and the ending felt a little too rushed. But all in all since from what I've read this was the authors first books, I would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of hers like I am! =0)

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Ain't She Sweet | What I Did for Love | Nobody's Baby But Mine | Honey Moon | Dream a Little Dream | Lady Be Good

Book Teaser(s) :
He told himself this was for her own good. She was willful and stubborn, a danger to herself. Whether he liked it or not, he was her guardian, which meant he had a responsibility to guide her.
But he didn't feel like a guardian. He felt like a man who was losing a struggle with himself.
"Go away!"
He twisted the knob and let himself in.
She stood by the window, the last of the sunlight casting her exquisite face into shadow. She was a wild, beautiful creature, and she tempted him beyond bearing. ~ within Chapter 11

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Susan, then please check out her website.



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More specifically Jess partners those websites' programs and you should be aware that they may collect personal information when you interact with their sites. The collection and use of this information is subject to their own privacy policies.
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Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Feasted On: The Bevelstoke Series, Book 3

Format: Paperback | Pages: 377 | Release Date: June 2010 | Publisher: Avon Books | Obtained: Loaned to me from my mom

"Ten Things I Love About You" [The Bevelstoke Series, Book 3] by Julia Quinn

My Book Summary : Annabel is a country girl through and through. However, when money starts getting tight after her father passes away and being the oldest girl out of eight children, it's her duty to provide for her family. This is why she’s now living in London with her grandparents trying to find a rich and titled husband, if possible, to marry her and help support her family. Yet, to her dismay, the only rich and titled man who seems to really want to marry her is her grandparent's friend, Lord Newbury. Who is also fat, old, and smelly, he wants her only for her body (especially her childbearing hips) but his main goal is to get Annabel to produce an heir for him (as his only son and previous heir has already died) since he doesn't want his title and wealth to go to his nephew, Sebastian Grey. Nevertheless, is Annabel willing to sacrifice herself and her wants out of life for her family?? Or will something happen or someone help her out to make everything all better for her?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Fun, eccentric, and infectious infatuation is just some of the words I would use to describe this delightful novel! It has so many twists it made my head spin at times but I still could not get enough! Annabel and Sebastian were a joy to read about, especially in their scenes together, along with Sebastian's creative views when it comes to his writing!

I hope at some point that the author will write a book for Lady Louisa McCann (Annabel's cousin) as she was a great secondary character who sounded like she could use some romance in her life!

I recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys comedic contemporary romances!!

Author's Series Extras : Music & Lyrics | FAQ About This Series

Author's Book Trailer :

Author's Book Interview :

Book Teaser(s) :
She glanced in the direction of the house. She ought to go. She really ought.
"I don't bite," he assured her. "Or anything else you'd need to worry over." He sat up and patted the blanket beside him. "Have a seat."
"I'll stand," she said. Because she hadn't completely lost her sense. At least she hoped not.
"Are you certain?" He gave her a winning smile. "It's much more comfortable down here."
Said the spider to the fly. Annabel only barely managed to avoid letting out a squeak of nervous laughter. ~ within Chapter 4
"I came in third for Winslow Most Likely to Outrun a Turkey."
He did not laugh this time, but this appeared to require a valiant effort on his part. "You are a country girl," he said.
She nodded.
"Is it so very difficult to outrun a turkey?"
"Not for me."
"Go on," he urged. "I find this fascinating."
"That's right," she said. "You have no siblings."
"A lack for which I have never been so bereft as tonight. Just think of the titles I might have won."
"Grey Most Likely to Join a Pirate Ship?" she suggested, with a nod toward his patch.
"Privateer, if you please. I'm much too refined for piracy."
She rolled her eyes a bit, then offered: "Grey Most Likely to Get Lost on a Heath?"
"You are a cruel woman. I knew where I was the entire time. I was thinking Grey Most Likely to Win a Fortune at Darts." ~ within Chapter 15
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Julia, then please check out her website.

Friday, July 10, 2015

Idolizing In: Mayhem Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 669 KB | Release Date: January 20, 2015 | Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers : Avon Books : Impulse | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Mayhem" [Mayhem Series, Book 1] by Jamie Shaw

Author's Book Description : When college freshman Rowan Michaels meets gorgeous, up-and-coming rock star Adam Everest, she knows a player like him is the last thing she needs after her ex-boyfriend shattered her heart. But she can’t stop thinking about the kiss they shared on his tour bus.

On the first day of school, Rowan is stunned when Adam saunters into her French class. He’s soon failing miserably, and on a whim, she offers to tutor him. But Adam doesn’t recognize her as a makeup-free, glasses-clad college student—a far cry from the beautiful, mysterious “Peach” he met at his concert.

During a wild weekend on tour with the band, Rowan can’t help falling for the sweet guy buried beneath Adam’s rocker persona. Yet she knows she could never compete with the girls constantly throwing themselves at his feet. She’d just end up hurt… again.

Peach is all Adam thinks about, though, and when Rowan realizes this, she has a decision to make: stay just friends to protect her fragile heart… or reveal the truth about the night they met and admit she’s fallen completely, hopelessly in love with him.

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars! Rowan (Ro/Peach) goes on a girls’ night out to see a band perform and has her whole life changed when she witnesses her longtime boyfriend cheating on her. That same night Rowan meets Adam, the lead singer of the band, who makes what could have been a terrible night into something memorable. After one kiss, they part ways with Rowan believing she’ll never see or hear from Adam again, that is until she sees him in her college French class on the first day of school. However, Adam doesn’t seem to recognize her so she stays away, that is until she volunteers to tutor him when she finds out that he’s about to fail the class. From that point on they become “friends” and their lives will never be the same but are either of them willing to commit to something more to each other than friendship and risk their hearts?

Wow! This is an intensely sweet novel that I didn’t want to stop reading! I thoroughly enjoyed how it was all from Rowan’s POV until the epilogue, which as from Adam’s POV, as it sealed the deal on my love for this novel.

Rowan is a brainy beauty who isn’t aware of her potential. Yet, when she starts tutoring Adam, she finds that she falls right in with band and realizes that the connection between Adam and her is stronger than she ever imagined. Adam is a typical rock star, not wanting to settle down but can’t deny that Rowan draws him in like no one else he has ever known. Together they bond over French, music, and more creating an instant relationship that is sweetly hot. A relationship that was very enviable.

In addition, I found this novel a great build up for this series, as Adam’s friends are awesome! I HIGHLY recommend this novel to those looking for an intense contemporary rock star romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : Mayhem (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Riot (Book 2) | IndieBound (Compact Disc) : Mayhem (Book 1) | IndieBound (Compact Disc) : Riot (Book 2) | IndieBound (Compact Disc) : Chaos (Book 3) | Kobo (e-Book) : Mayhem (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : Riot (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : Chaos (Book 3) | Amazon.com (Kindle Edition) : Riot (Book 2) | Amazon.com (Kindle Edition) : Chaos (Book 3)


Author's Novel Extras : ifList: Film & TV Proposal -- Mayhem | Pinterest: Mayhem | MAYHEM -- Coming Early 2015! | MAYHEM Cover Reveal | Four Weeks Til MAYHEM | MAYHEM Blog Tour | Thank You, Thank You, Thank You

Made by Ashley with booksbymigs.comAMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Mayhem-Jamie-Shaw-ebook/dp/B00L1AJUKEBARNES &...
Posted by Jamie Shaw on Sunday, January 25, 2015

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Riot | Mayhem Book 2 Title Announcement! | Happy Halloween! | Title for Mayhem Book 3! | Dee: The "Best Friend" Heroine

There are less than two months left until #CHAOS, so this weekend, get caught up on the Mayhem Series ---- And get away with the band!#MAYHEM #RIOT
Posted by Jamie Shaw on Friday, May 22, 2015

Book Teaser(s) :
After the last song, the entire band gathers around me—as if I didn’t feel small enough already. “This is the girl from my class,” Adam says by way of introduction, and then he points to the short blond guitarist. “That’s Cody.” Then to the mohawked guitarist. “That’s Joel.” Then to the drummer. “That’s Mike. And you’ve already met Shawn.”
I smile at Shawn and then give the rest of the guys a little wave. “Rowan. Hi.” I vaguely wonder if Adam is ever going to bother introducing me by name, but it’s really not my biggest concern right now. Looking around at all of the sweaty rock boys in front of me, I’m busy trying not to feel two inches tall. Forcing a smile, I say, “You guys were amazing out there.” I nod at the drummer, Mike. “You were freaking incredible.”
He looks absolutely stunned, glancing at the other guys and then over his shoulder, like he’s not sure if I’m talking to him. “Me?”
“Yeah, you! I’ve never seen anything like that.” By the look on his face, I’m guessing Mike doesn’t usually get first dibs on after-show compliments—not with Adam and Shawn to compete with. He steps away from the rest of the guys to wrap his arm around my shoulder, and then he starts leading me away.
“Where are we going?” I ask, confused.
“To get married. Immediately. Sorry, Adam!” I look over my shoulder, but the guys are following behind us, laughing. Adam smiles so warmly at me that I can feel my heartbeat even in the tips of my ears. ~ within Chapter 11

MAYHEM by Jamie Shaw -- Read my review here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Friday, July 10, 2015

MAYHEM by Jamie Shaw -- Read my review here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Friday, July 10, 2015
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Jamie, then please check out her website.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Made the Grade: St. John Brothers / Talisman Ring Series, Book 3

Format: Paperback | Pages: 375 | Release Date: December 2003 | Publisher: Avon Books

"How to Treat a Lady" [St. John Brothers / Talisman Ring Series, Book 3] by Karen Hawkins

My Book Summary : [See below for a quote on the talisman ring.]

Chase St. John has hit some troubles, and ever since a man, named Harry, whom he assumed was his friend has been holding the knowledge of Chase's wrong doing over Chase's head for the past month or more in effort to get money out him in trade he won't confess to others what he witnessed. But Chase has had enough and decides that the only way he can keep from ruining the St. John name is by leaving England permanently (London especially). So, he tells Harry this and leaves, with only a bag of his clothes, money, a few other things, and his mothers talisman ring (his mother's most prized possession). Of course Chase is very depressed by the idea of never seeing his family again, so along the way to the ship for his departure he picks up some brandy and gets drunk. On the way though two thieves think of him as an easy mark (which he is as he's drunk), knock him off of his horse and start ruffling through his things, leaving him left for dead or at least close to it.

Harriett has some troubles of her own, her father took out a loan from the bank, then suddenly past away not long after, since then her family and her have been trying to make ends meat by either plowing fields for whatever then can tend or as of recently became sheep farmers. They only have one payment left but with Mr. Gower, the bank manager, at barking at their heels for the money every chance they get and only 2 weeks left to get the wool sheered and ready for the market, for them to have the money, they are doing everything they can to keep their family home. Even if that means making up a imaginative fiance for Harriet, that will be coming to their rescue with the money they need any day, named Captain John Frakenham.

Just when she thought her luck was getting worse she comes across Chase's horse all by himself, after rounding him up, she finds Chase not far away with a head injury and brings him home to help him. When Chase comes to he realizes that he is immediately charmed by Harriet, and decides not to tell her that he cannot remember whom he was, which makes her very suspicious. However, not long after he learns of their misfortunes and Harriet's mother tells Chase that she knows who he is, why he is Harriet's betrothed, Captain John Frakenham! At first Chase thinks this is crazy but then he goes along with the ploy and helps out the family to try and pass him off as the Captain when Mr. Gower or other locals stop by. But soon he finds he is more then playing a part, as he gets enlisted to help out with the sheep, which happens to be more work then he has ever done before.

As days pass things back in London are getting worse as Harry spreads more rumors about Chase, while at Harriet's house Chase finds that he likes the family and Harriet more with each passing day. But will he be able to leave without informing the family of his true identity? Can he keep his secrets in the past? Will him having the talisman ring make the magic come true? And will Harriet's family make it out of their debt?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars. It was a very cute story. More tamed then I would have liked but it still kept my interest, wanting to see where this sweet romance between Chase and Harriet would lead.

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Sleepless In Scotland

Book Teaser(s) :
They say the St. John talisman ring was made by the fairies and given to the handsomest man in all England, one Sir Gervase St. John. The fairies spelled that ring so that whoever held it should fall madly in love. ~ right before Chapter 1
"Something, perhaps. But for a captain to forget the name and location of his ship?"
She had a point. He touched the bandage. "But I hit my head. Very, very hard."
"Yes, but we cannot afford to raise his suspicions where the captain is concerned or he'll guess----" She clamped her mouth closed and glared at Chase as if he'd done something horrid.
Chase straightened. She'd almost said it ... almost. He closed in on her, wondering if perhaps he could get the truth out of her yet. "Gower will guess what?"
Her jaw tightened. "Nothing." ~ within Chapter 10

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Karen, then please check out her website.



** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts. Basically Jess earns from qualifying purchases.
More specifically Jess partners those websites' programs and you should be aware that they may collect personal information when you interact with their sites. The collection and use of this information is subject to their own privacy policies.
You can check out Rakuten Marketing's privacy policy here: https://rakutenmarketing.com/legal-notices/services-privacy-policy/
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Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Feasted On: Eloisa's Fairy Tales Series, Book 4

Format: Paperback | Pages: 384 | Release Date: August 2012 | Publisher: Avon Books | Obtained: My Mom (previously read it and gave it to me saying I had to read it)

"The Ugly Duchess" [Eloisa's Fairy Tales Series, Book 4] by Eloisa James

My Book Summary : Throughout her life, Theodora (Theo/Daisy) has known that she isn't as pretty as the other girls/women of the ton are. The only ones who have never agreed with everyone else's assessment of her is her mother and James (her best friend--who's 2 years older then her). Therefore, when her season begins--when she is 17-years-old--Theo has to deal with a lot of fortune hunters but she is committed to want to marry for love.

At 19/20-years-old, James isn't ready for marriage. However, when his father informs him of the poor state that their estate is in (because of his father's gambling debts) and that all James is able to do is either convince Theo to marry him or loose everything but his title, James feels pinned to the wall no matter what he chooses.

Nevertheless, after thinking about Theo in more of a relationship kind-of-way he falls into his father's plan only because she is his best friend and he doesn't want to loose her to another man. Yet not long after their marriage, Theo finds out about James father's scheme. Believing that James doesn't love her and everything was a lie, she kicks James and his father out.

Only instead of sticking around and trying to win Theo's good graces back, James--full of heartache and thinking he has lost her forever--takes their ship and sails away for seven years. Once he arrives back home will Theo have forgiven him? Can they repair the longtime friendship and love they once had? Or will old hurts make Theo want to create a new life for herself once again?

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! Two people find that love grows where you least expect it and that it'll never go away no matter what life throws at you. I was thoroughly entranced by this novel! Even though the plots had very little similarities it reminded me of a mix between Elizabeth Essex's "Almost a Scandal" and Julia Quinn's "Ten Things I Love About You," mostly because they have both very strong female lead character's just like "The Ugly Duchess" and I couldn't get enough of those novels just like this one!

It was intriguing to read about Theo and James' separation because it seemed to let them both grow into who they were truly meant to be. I mean they both loved each other in the beginning of the novel. Without a doubt, but I think if they had the chance to stay together instead of separating they would still have had a wonderful marriage yet I think neither of them would have grown as much as they did if they stayed together during that time because of how young they both were. Yet with that being said, I do wish James came back to Theo sooner then he had. Nevertheless, I'm glad with how everything turned out. It kept me laughing throughout while leaving me sentimental and chocked up at times too.

Definitely a keeper! I recommend this novel to anyone who likes fairy tales with a twist and/or historical romances!!

- On a side note -
I'm curious as to what will happen between Sir Griffin Barry (James' cousin) and his wife in "Seduced by a Pirate," the latest novella and book 4.5 in this series.

Author's Novel Extras : Exclusive Excerpt | The Inside Take | Reviews in the Press | Hurrah! | News About The Ugly Duchess | Accolades for The Ugly Duchess | The Ugly Duchess is now Available! | The Ugly Duchess is a New York Times Bestseller! | The Ugly Duchess is a New York Times Bestseller!

Author's Series Extras : Eloisa's Fairy Tales | In Stores Now: The Duke is Mine

Book Teaser(s) :
Teaser #1 ~ within Chapter 6
He reached into his breast pocket and withdrew a small flannel pouch, which he proceeded to open.
It held a locket.
And inside the locket . . . a curl of hair whose color ranged from bronze to brandy.
“I fail to see the significance of that object you hold,” Cecil said, leaning back with a wave of his hand. “A tarnished locket with a piece of hair—” He looked sideways at Theo and broke off.
“It is my hair,” Theo said, her lips moving with difficulty. “James cut it on our wedding night. Actually,the following morning.” She reached out her hand. “May I have it, please?”
Mr. Badger handed it over. The locket was, as Cecil said, a tarnished and not particularly valuable one. Yet there was no mistaking her own hair. She’d spent too many years deploring its odd streaks to mistake it.
“That need not be your hair,” Cecil said, peering down at her hand. “I agree that there is some similarity,but your color is much lighter than that, my dear.”
“James cut it from underneath so that no one could see. The hair is darker, but you see it has all the oddness of my hair. Like a yellow zebra, James always said.” To her distress, she heard her voice quaver. ~ within Chapter 21
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Eloisa, then please check out her website.

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Joyful by Shelley Shepard Gray | Review & Novels Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Shelley Shepard Gray, with a review of "Joyful," which is the 3rd & final book in her Return to Sugarcreek Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from September 11 - 28, 2014 | Giveaway ends on September 28, 2014]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 234; Kindle Edition - File Size: 459 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: September 2, 2014 | Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers : Avon Books : Inspire | Obtained: Litfuse Publicity Group

"Joyful" [Return to Sugarcreek Series, Book 3] by Shelley Shepard Gray

Author's Book Description : A young Amish couple gets a second chance at love in New York Times bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray’s final book in her Return to Sugarcreek series.

Randall Beiler is doing his best to put his family and the farm’s needs first, even forsaking love. But though he tries, Randall knows he needs help caring for his younger siblings and keeping the house together.

When his brother offers pretty Elizabeth Nolt a job taking care of the house and cooking for the family, Randall is furious—and guilty about the way he once broke Elizabeth’s heart. But when he learns that Elizabeth and her grandmother are struggling to make ends meet, he knows the offer, no matter how painful, is the right thing for everyone.

Elizabeth wants to refuse—to stay far away from the man who hurt her—but she needs the money. Though she vows to protect her heart, spending time in the Beiler household makes Elizabeth realize that, while she’s older and wiser, her love for Randall still burns strong.

Randal, too, seems to want something more. But does he want Elizabeth because he truly loves her—or because he needs a housekeeper? If Randall sincerely wants something more, he must find a way to show Elizabeth—or risk losing his chance at love forever.

Joyful includes a P.S. section with a letter from the author, discussion questions, and a teaser from her next book.

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! Since this was the first novel that I've read from Ms. Gray's Return to Sugarcreek Series, I found that it wasn't laid out like I expected--with it's three "main" stories having it's characters all knowing of each other in some way but not really going together--yet I was happy with how it all turned out.

The lead story was about Elizabeth (Lizzie/Beth) & Randall. They used to be a couple but when Randall's family starts to go their own ways, Randall takes on the mantle of head of their family which in turn makes him feel like his relationship with Elizabeth can't continue--even though they both have strong feeling for each other--so he brakes up with her. A while (the book doesn't really say) after they brake up it becomes apparent to Randall's family that they are in need of help--mostly from a female--and feel that Elizabeth would be the prefect choice (much to Randall's dismay because he still has feeling for her). Therefore, Elizabeth starting helping out/working at Randall's house, every day there brings up old feelings and put everything between them into question. For the most part, once they finally put everything onto the table, I really liked them as a couple but it took a while within the novel to get to that point. In truth, I liked Elizabeth's relationship with Randall's family more then I liked hers with him.

The next story was about Judith & Ben. They are husband and wife--both Amish--who miscarried a few months back and are now fostering a boy (James) whose mother is serving time in prison. It's all about their relationship with each other and how strong it is, how much they think of James as their own child--even though they are only to have him for a few months to a year or so--and what they'll do once/if they have to give him up. It's very sweet how they pull together through it all; I really liked them as a couple because they seemed to complete each other.

The last story was about Bud & Pippa. Who are not Amish but living within the same community. They are slowly building into a relationship after being "sort of" friends for a long time prior. I really liked the way Bud goes about to rebuild Pippa's confidence and wooing her.

Overall, I recommend this novel to anyone who likes Christian romances!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Hidden

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: JOYFUL | Joyful - Overview

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: HOPEFUL | Pinterest: THANKFUL | Hopeful - Overview | Thankful - Overview | Hello, Again! | Baking Cranberry-Orange Bread | News, News, News | HAPPY NEW YEAR! | Another Guest Post by Mary!

Book Teaser(s) :
"Judith, tonight when James cried, you were there for him. When he needed comfort, we gave him medicine. When he's been hungry, we fed him, and when he needed to be held and loved, we've done that, too. No matter what the future brings, right now, right this minute, he needs us. And we need him, Judith. He's brought us so much joy and happiness, even for this short amount of time."
"He has, hasn't he?"
Ben nodded. ~ within Chapter 8
"So, I gather that you don't want me here? That you would like to spend as little time as possible with me?"
He grimaced. "I didn't mean what I said exactly the way you heard it."
"Oh?"
"Yeah." He groaned as he shifted on his pile of propped-up pillows. "I'm sorry, Beth, but I'm not doing too good right now."
Hearing him call her Beth, especially when it was obvious that it had just slipped out, made much of her irritation float away. Softening her voice, she murmured, "I kind of noticed."
"Listen, when I said I didn't want you here, it wasn't because I didn't want to see you."
"Why don't you want me here?"
"Because I don't want you to see me like this." ~ within Chapter 16

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Shelley, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Shelley Shepard Gray is a two-time New York Times bestseller, a two-time USA Today bestseller, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time Holt Medallion winner. She lives in Southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.



Giveaways!! :

Don't miss Shelley Shepard Gray's newest book in the Return to Sugarcreek Series, "Joyful." USA Today raved: "A sweet, straightforward story about how love can be tested by family, faith, and personal insecurity. Enjoyable and heartwarming."

Click the banner below for a chance to win books 1-3 in Shelley's Return to Sugarcreek Series! Winner announced on Shelley's blog on September 30th!

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ALSO -- Be sure to check out Litfuse's other Blog Tour Reviews for this novel!!



Find Shelley Shepard Gray :
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