Saturday, September 28, 2024

My Thoughts and More on November Knight by Debbi Migit

 



About the Book

Book: November Knight (Justice Montana Series Book Three)

Author: Debbi Migit

Genre: YA

Release date: November 28, 2023

When kidnappers take her friend, Sierra Gallagher, Jess Thomas is determined to find her. But a simple clue reveals a threat Jess never saw coming, plunging her into a life-threatening confrontation.

Meanwhile, former Army Ranger Levi Cooper is now a valuable task force member searching for the missing girls. But when he encounters Sierra, Levi discovers he has another mission.

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

This is the third in a series that deals with sisters and their friends and beaus and the suspense that they experience. This is the first one that I have read and while the story drew me in very quickly, I do think reading the first books would have given me a better handle on all the characters and what they had been through already. And they had been through a lot. This story continues their story especially when their friend Sierra gets kidnapped along with a young girl she was trying to help. The kidnapping and their ordeal were a little bit chilling.

This would make a great read for young adults as the characters are between the ages of young adult and new adult. There is also the drama of young love and all that goes with that. In fact, I was a bit surprised at some of the twists in regard to a couple of characters, I hope their story continues as I kept thinking, no it can't end that way. Looking forward to the next one.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to give a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.


About the Author

Award-winning author and speaker Debbi Migit lives in central Illinois, surrounded by pumpkin patches and cornfields. Her first book, Child of Promise, is the true love story of a family formed through adoption. After ten years of infertility, Debbi and her husband Phil were just months from adopting when God said, “Not this way.” Child of Promise is the story of audacious faith resulting in multiple miracles. It encourages readers to remember their own promises and believe again.

Debbi has won multiple awards and contests, writing stories that are filled with faith and hope. She loves to share personal anecdotes about God’s faithfulness, infusing her talks with authenticity and humor. Debbi and Phil are the adoptive parents of Alex, Ethan, and Kate. The God-ordained spacing of their children offered the unique opportunity to parent a teen and two toddlers–at the same time. This is the season Debbi fondly calls the TNT years!

Debbi’s hobbies include reading, writing, and avoiding arithmetic. Her favorite color is turquoise, and she collects Trixie Belden books and typewriters. If playing Candy Crush was a paying gig, she would be rich.

Debbi’s Justice, Montana series begins with September Shadows, released in February, 2021. After the mysterious death of their parents, Jess Thomas and her sisters are determined to stay together and make a new life for themselves, which includes faith-testing danger, adventure, and romance.

October Outlaw was released in the fall of 2021, followed by November Knight in November 2023.

The series will conclude with December Dreams, and January Justice in 2025

More from Debbi

November Knight features a real-life abandoned gold mining town located in Bannack State Park near Dillon, Montana. Bannack appears in all of the Justice, Montana books, but it is an exciting part of November Knight. Read more about the history of Bannack here: https://westernmininghistory.com/towns/montana/bannack/

Blog Stops

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 17

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 18

Texas Book-aholic, September 19

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 20

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 21

Stories By Gina, September 22 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, September 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 24

Artistic Nobody, September 25 (Author Interview)

An Author’s Take, September 26

Cover Lover Book Review, September 27

Guild Master, September 28 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, September 28

Pause for Tales, September 29

Lily’s Corner, September 30

Cape & Castle, September 30

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Debbi is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of November Knight!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5443


My Thoughts and More on Ronnie by Jennifer Lynn Cary

 



About the Book


Book: Ronnie

Author: Jennifer Lynn Cary

Genre: Sweet Romcom

Release Date: June 12, 2024

She’s literally stuck in her engagement…

…He’s trying to keep her there.

But when you take the couple out of Texas, is the romance lost too?

Ronnie Webb has broken her engagement to the love of her life, Carlos (Cal) Garcia, or would have if the stupid ring would come off her finger.

To find the space to get over him and the rest of what is going wrong in her life, she leaves her dad’s Texas ranch to visit her aunt and family in Kokomo, Indiana.

But hanging out with the Weather Girls, especially with their cardinal in the sycamore legend sending out strong vibes, Ronnie’s love life may not be as dead as she thinks.

Carlitos can’t believe the letter Ronnie left him right before Christmas—his last one at home before his enlistment starts. However, his broken wrist might just be the break he needs to get Ronnie back before it’s too late.

But what does this native Texan know about mid-western Hoosier romance?

And can he learn, or is this the end?

Ronnie: A Sweet, Quirky Romantic Yarn is book five in the Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue series. Inspired by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons’ 1960’s song of the name, this charming tale with a bit of western influence finishes off 1972 and brings you into the New Year in Kokomo, Indiana.

You will enjoy this sweet and wholesome romcom with a touch of western flavor because everyone dreams of their own cowboy romance.

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

Ronnie is having a hard time right now. She has just written the man she loves that she can't marry him and on top of that she can't get the engagement ring off. She goes to her family to visit her cousins and to just get away from Cal her boyfriend, and the memories of the death of her friend. Ronnie has run away.

Cal enlisted before he talked to Ronnie because his number got called up. He is not about to let the love of his life go without a fight. He goes after Ronnie and tries to woo her back.

This is another fun Weather Girls novel. It was nice seeing the cousins, the Weather girls and how they were doing. Now one of their family members is in need of help. Will Ronnie quit letting fear control her or will she let Cal go? Sometimes funny and oftentimes thoughtful, this was another great edition to this series.

I was provided a copy of this novel by the author. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own. 

About the Author

Historical Christian Romance author, Jennifer Lynn Cary, likes to say you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can’t take the Hoosier out of the girl. Now transplanted to the Arizona desert, this direct descendant of Davy Crockett and her husband of forty plus years enjoy time with family where she shares tales of her small-town heritage and family legacies with their grandchildren. She is the author of The Crockett Chronicles series, The Relentless series, and The Weather Girls trilogy as well as the stand-alone novel, Cheryl’s Going Home, her novella Tales of the Hob Nob Annex Café, and her split-time novels The Traveling Prayer Shawl and The Forgotten Gratitude Journal. Her current spin-off series, The Weather Girls Wedding Shoppe and Venue, contains standalones with a common thread.

More from Jennifer

In the first chapter of Ronnie, Carlitos comes home to his mom making his favorite, Pozole. It is a Mexican soup, and the first time I had it was at my neighbor’s house. She has given me her recipe and permission to share it with you all. Two things to keep in mind: first, she and I had to work to translate this from Spanish to English. We did our best, but if you don’t understand something, just give it your best shot—or ask me. I might be able to figure it out. Maybe. 😉 Two, she usually makes big batches of this, and she cut it back for a “normal” size. So feel free to adjust as needed.

Most of all, though, enjoy!

Pozole Recipe by Araceli Estrada (my amazing neighbor and friend)

Ingredients:

For meat pot-

4 lbs. of bone-in pork loin

½ white onion–diced

1 head of garlic—clean off the paper

2 bay leaves

1 T oregano

1 T ground cumin

1 T powdered chicken bouillon

1 large can of hominy

For chili sauce-

10 chili pods

10 Ancho chilis

10-15 black pepper corns

4 cloves of garlic

For garnish—

Shredded cabbage

Diced onion

Sliced radishes

Chopped cilantro

Chunked avocado

Lime wedges—to squeeze over

Directions:

Place in a Dutch oven, the pork loin, the half onion, the head of garlic, the bay leaves, the oregano, and cumin. Add enough water to cover up to ¾ of pot. Bring to a boil and then heat. Simmer for 2 hours stirring often and skimming off the foam.

Slice open chilis and remove seeds and membranes. In a second pot, add chili pods and Ancho chilis. Cover with water and bring to a boil. After two minutes, turn off heat and allow chilis to rest in hot water for at least ten minutes. The chilis should feel soft and pliable.

Remove from water and put into blender with black peppercorns, 4 cloves of garlic, and a cup of water. Add water a little at a time, careful to not add too much. Puree until smooth. Then pour through a strainer into the meat pot.

Strain the hominy and add it plus the chicken bouillon to the meat pot. Salt to taste. Allow to simmer while preparing the garnishes.

Set garnishes out so guests can choose. Serve with warm tortillas.

(From Jenny: Not sure home much this will serve, but it is so good!)

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 18

Blossoms and Blessings, September 19 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, September 19

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 20

Artistic Nobody, September 21 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 22

Guild Master, September 23 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, September 24

A Reader’s Brain, September 25 (Author Interview)

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 26

Back Porch Reads, September 27 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 28

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, September 29 (Author Interview)

Pause for Tales, September 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 30

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 1 (Author Interview)

 

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Jennifer is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5444


Tuesday, September 24, 2024

My Thoughts and More on Legacy of Hope by Renae Brumbaugh Green

 

 


About the Book

Book: Legacy of Hope

Author: Renae Brumbaugh Green

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: September 3, 2024

Ivelisse “Lisa” Garcia has overcome her past growing up in an orphanage and found purpose as a nurse at a local mission hospital. When a mysterious stranger she had a chance encounter with shows up in her ward with no memory of his past, Lisa is determined to help him recover, both mentally and physically. As she aids in his recovery, and a spark kindles between them, she wonders if there might be room for both fulfillment and love in her life.

But Lisa has a secret, and when it gets out, it could ruin any chance she has at love.

Jackson Stratton, desperate to escape his father’s tyranny, embarks on a daring journey to join Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders. But a freak accident leaves him wounded and unable to remember his past. As he struggles to piece together the fragments of his former life, he finds himself drawn to the beautiful nurse who has become his lifeline. Will he ever unlock the keys to his past, or will his upbringing remain shrouded in mystery as he tries to start anew?

And should he learn the truth of his past, will it prevent him from embracing the future he truly wants?

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

The Stratton family have quite a legacy, and this is Jackson, Jack, Stratton's story. Jack has serious father issues, and now that he is grown, he has left home. Due to the fear of his father, he leaves home without letting anyone know with the hopes of joining up with Roosevelt's Rough Riders. That was an interesting tidbit of historical information that I don't believe I have read in another book. On his way he meets nurse Ivelisse, Lisa, who is an orphan, and then he has an accident.

Lisa and Jack have a bit of an instant attraction, though they are forced to get to know one another as Jack now has amnesia and can't remember who he is. He does have nightmares that he suspects are from his previous life.

This is the third book in this family saga, and there is some growing, maturity, and redemption that takes place as the rest of the Stratton's believe that Jackson is dead. It forces his parents to really reevaluate their life, what they worked so hard for that turned into dust when they thought they lost their beloved son. Change can happen, families can heal even though it may be a long road. And maybe, just maybe a new legacy can begin.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own. 

About the Author


Renae Brumbaugh Green is a city-girl-turned-country-diva. She’s married to a handsome country boy named Rick, and she’s mom to four nearly-perfect, nearly-grown children, two rowdy dogs, and some ducks. They live in rural Texas where Renae wears overalls, western boots, and bubblegum pink nail polish. She’s a bestselling author of over 30 books, an award-winning humor columnist, and an online English teacher. In her free time, she can be found leaping tall buildings and rescuing kittens from trees. Or, she’d like to do those things, if she had free time.

 

 

 

More from Renae

To the casual observer, Jackson Stratton probably looks like he has it all. He lives in a beautiful home. He has influential parents and plenty of money. But behind the fancy facade, he exists under the harsh, abusive judgment of his father’s expectations. At the beginning of our story, Jackson leaves to begin a new life.

After an accident takes his memories, he’s truly given a fresh start. What if that could happen for each of us? All the hurt, all the pain, all the shame and neglect and abuse could be wiped away? What if we could truly choose who we want to become?

Lisa, on the other hand, was abandoned as an infant. She struggles with self-worth, even while experiencing God’s visible kindness, love and grace. No matter who we are or what our circumstances, none of us is immune to Satan’s lies, telling us we’ll never measure up.

The truth is, you are already exactly who God created you to be. You are perfectly formed in His image, with His characteristics, His strength and His power. But this world, this life, has a way of distorting that image. Sin—both our own sin and others’ actions toward us—deforms that beautiful spirit. Satan fills our heads with lies about who we are, and it doesn’t take long for us to see that image when we look in the mirror, instead of the God-created one.

So how do we go about finding the truth, when so much of our identity is built on lies? It’s possible. But it’s not easy. Just as we untangle a tight, wadded-up knot gently, one strand at a time, we can address the lies, the guilt, the shame one piece, one prayer at a time. It’s a process… but isn’t that what life is? A process of sloughing off the bad and becoming more and more like our Father?

When Jackson’s memories leave him, God doesn’t. He still hears that still, small voice, speaking truth. And though most of us have our memories intact, we can listen. With discipline and perseverance and faith, we can learn to ignore the lies and hear only God, telling us who we are, who He made us to be. We are strong. We are intelligent. We have great purpose. We are wanted. And we are loved.

I hope you enjoy reading about Jackson and Lisa’s journeys. And I hope, somewhere in there, you find a reminder that you are not your circumstances. You are not your past. You have hope, and you have an amazing future planned by your adoring Father. You are, and always will be, a valued, treasured, beautiful, wanted, loved child of the King.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Blog Stops

Stories By Gina, September 11 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 11

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 12

Madi’s Musings, September 12

Vicky Sluiter, September 13

Sylvan Musings, September 14

Devoted To Hope, September 15

Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 16 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 18

Texas Book-aholic, September 18

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 19

Connie’s history classroom, September 20

An Author’s Take, September 20

Simple Harvest Reads, September 21 (Guest Review from Donna)

Cover Lover Book Review, September 22

For Him and My Family, September 23

Pause for Tales, September 24

Holly’s Book Corner, September 24

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour Renae is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5438


Monday, September 23, 2024

My Thoughts and More on A Thieving at Carlton House by Erica Vetsch

 

A Thieving at Carlton House JustRead Takeover + Review Blitz

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Thieving at Carlton House by Erica Vetsch hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

A Thieving at Carlton House Title: A Thieving at Carlton House 
Series: Of Cloaks & Daggers #1 
Author: Erica Vetsch 
Publisher: Kregel Publications 
Release Date: September 17, 2024 
Genre: Regency Mystery Romance

Unlikely alliances form when a killer is on the loose... but who can be trusted?

The Home Office has asked Sir Bertrand Thorndike to head an investigation into stolen royal jewels. And as with everything concerning the Prince Regent, discretion is paramount. 

It's the perfect chance for Bertie to step out of his brother's long shadow. Unfortunately, his superior, The Duke of Haverly, has a plan that makes him balk: in order to sell his cover, Bertie must play the part of a man looking for love, ready to reform his rakish ways. The duke is willing to let Bertie name his own investigative team, but his recommendation that the team include 

Philippa Cashel has Bertie on his guard. Does the duke--known for his behind-the-scenes machinations--have an ulterior motive? Philippa Cashel escaped her life as one of society's best-known courtesans, devoting her life to helping other women in dire straits. So when Sir Bertrand Thorndike approaches her about joining his team as an agent of the Crown, she is skeptical. Why her? She's focused on getting her school for underprivileged women up and running, not in cloak-and-dagger skullduggery. Her hope is that if she labors hard enough at her charity work, she might begin to feel worthy of God's forgiveness of her past. 

When one of Philippa's rescued girls is arrested for stealing the royal jewels and another is murdered, Philippa will risk partnering with Bertie to find the loot and stop the killer. 

Two brilliant minds--with two wary hearts--and one cunning deceiver are on a collision course in Regency England. 

Beloved Regency author Erica Vetsch begins this new series with all the elements that keep her readers coming back. From historical accuracy to rousing mystery to deep character faith journeys, A Thieving at Carlton House will please Regency lovers--and anyone else who loves a great story.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available:

The Lost Lieutenant (Serendipity & Secrets Book 1) The Debutante's Code (Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries Book 1)



About the Author

Erica Vetsch

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota.

Connect with Erica by visiting ericavetsch.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Saturday, September 21, 2024

My Thoughts and More on Redeeming the Rake by Lorri Dudley

 



About the Book

Book: Redeeming the Rake

Author: Lorri Dudley

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release Date: August 20, 2024

He’s bent on destroying everything she values, stealing her heart in the process.

As a vicar’s daughter, Emily Thompson has always put her family’s reputation first, even when it meant setting aside her aspirations of joining the Royal Art Academy. But when a notorious London rake is accosted in her sleepy Costwold village and her quick thinking saves the libertine’s blackened soul, that reputation she’s so carefully guarded is left vulnerable to vicious gossip.

Agent Lord Jacob Edward Warren’s silver tongue can’t save him when he’s staring down the barrel of a vengeful husband’s gun. but an enchanting damsel’s skill with a bow and arrow offers him the hope of tomorrow. Intrigued by Miss Thompson’s quiet charm, he commissions the budding artist to paint his portrait, but his intensions change when he discovers this beguiling beauty holds not only his chance at redemption but also the intelligence he’s been assigned to gather.

The time spent in Lord Warren’s company has Emily wondering if he’s hiding more than charm and wit behind his reputation as a rake. But when she’s drawn into Jacob’s noble cause, the web of danger proves more perilous than either of them are prepared to face.

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

What a fun, action packed, and romantic read this was with plenty of surprises and secrets. The rake, Lord Jacob Edward Warren, is a secret agent for his government. He is good at his job, but he is also doing it for personal reasons. He is the third son and has always been a bit mischievous, so he doesn't mind his reputation of being rake, even though some of that is fabricated, till now.

Enter by shooting an arrow to save his life comes the vicar's daughter Emily Thompson. She is lovely and kind and a woman like her is just what Jacob didn't know he wanted. Now he has to convince her without giving away his secrets. Emily, though, has a few secrets herself.

I have been really enjoying this series, all the books are just so captivating and wonderful to get lost in. Can Emily and Jacob let down their guard and start a life together? That is the question, if they can survive all that is going on around them and let redemption take hold of them both.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own. 

About the Author


Lorri Dudley has been a finalist in numerous writing contests and has a master’s degree in Psychology. She lives in Ashland, Massachusetts with her husband and three teenage sons, where writing romance allows her an escape from her testosterone filled household.

 

 

 

 

 

More from Lorri

Before I started writing books, I used to teach art at a local Christian school for first through fifth grade. Having a main character as an artist was a delight. I wrote Emily’s view of vibrant colors, light and shadows, shapes, and perspective from my personal experience and enjoyed putting an artist’s visual viewpoint into words.

A clash of characters—the Neoclassic vs. Romantic method



The early 1800s ushered in a change from the Neoclassical to the Romantic movement. (They had me at romantic.) Neoclassical art focused on traditional subject matter, often contemporary Lord and Ladies, political figures, or Roman mythological characters. The style used prominent horizontal and vertical renderings in a shallow space with sober colors, and brush strokes weren’t to be seen. Romanticism, on the other hand, focused on imagination, an awe of nature, emotion, and individualism. Romanticists painted with a broader brush—literally and figuratively.



Emily and Jacob’s relationship becomes the merging of the two art movements. Although Emily is artistic, she’s traditional and holds herself in check, afraid to make mistakes or act freely due to a fear of people’s perceptions and being a vicar’s daughter. She sees the world in bright colors and displays a touch of Romanticism in her artwork. When not painting, Emily sees herself and her future in plain and sobering colors. She keeps her world small and shallow to protect her family’s reputation, especially her beloved and impressionable younger brother.

Lord Jacob Warren is the born-to-be-wild, laugh in the face of danger, third-born son, who doesn’t care a wit what others think as long as he accomplishes his mission as a spy. However, his individualistic, romantic side is intrigued by the vicar’s daughter who saves his life, and he’s curious about the woman who’d pound on his chest and scream, “You will live, in Jesus’s name!” His emotions stir when Emily notices details about him that others never bothered to learn and becomes charmed by her natural beauty.

Jacob and Emily may paint with different brushstrokes, but their love, when blended, demonstrates a powerful masterpiece, the kind of love that only God could orchestrate.

Enjoy!

Blog Stops

She Lives To Read, September 10

Melissa’s Bookshelf, September 11

Holly’s Book Corner, September 11

lakesidelivingsite, September 12

Betti Mace, September 13

Stories By Gina, September 14 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 15

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 16

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 17

Texas Book-aholic, September 17

Cover Lover Book Review, September 18

DevotedToHope, September 19

Book Looks by Lisa, September 20

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 21

Pause for Tales, September 21

Simple Harvest Reads, September 22 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, September 23

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Lorri is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5437


Monday, September 16, 2024

My Thoughts and More on Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter by Lisa Jordan

 

Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter JustRead Takeover + Review Tour

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter by Lisa Jordan hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Bonding with the Cowboys Daughter Title: Bonding with the Cowboy's Daughter 
Series: Stone River Ranch #3 
Author: Lisa Jordan 
Publisher: Love Inspired 
Release Date: August 20, 2024 
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

She’s left her old life behind

…only to find a new love waiting 

After a broken engagement, Callie Morgan decides to move to Aspen Ridge, Colorado, to fix up her late grandmother’s gift shop. But the shop is in bad shape and Callie runs out of money faster than expected. Old childhood friend and single dad Wyatt Stone comes to the rescue, offering her a job at his family’s ranch, Stone River Ranch. While their friendship is rekindled, will Callie ever risk loving again…even as Wyatt’s little girl is already stealing her heart?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books from this Series:

Rescuing Her Ranch Redeeming the Cowboy

My Thoughts and More on Winning the Mountain Man's Love by Misty M. Beller

 

 


About the Book


Book: Winning the Mountain Man’s Love (Brothers of Sapphire Ranch, Book 5)

Author: Misty M. Beller

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: September 3, 2024

In the wild mountains of the Montana Territory, the Coulter ranch is a place of family, second chances…and a hidden fortune.

As the second brother of six, Jonah Coulter has no shortage of family, yet he’s more than ready to find a woman who doesn’t see him as her second choice. Haunted by the loss of his sister Lucy and the rejection of his former fiancée, he sets out to find the aunt of a lost child his family has taken in. Maybe reuniting the girl with her only remaining family will give him the purpose he craves.

After fleeing her past and the man who killed her late husband, Patience Whitman has reinvented herself in the untamed Montana Territory. Relying on her gambling skills to survive, she’s determined to earn enough to buy the life she dreams of—a bit of land and a home of her very own, far enough away from people that she can finally find peace. But then a man shows up in town searching for her and says his family has taken in her niece, Patsy’s perfectly laid plans go awry. If Anna really is here in the Montana Territory, Patience can’t abandon the only family she has left.

As Jonah and Patsy navigate the treacherous landscape of their pasts and little Anna’s future, they must confront their deepest fears and learn to trust each other. But when Patsy’s dangerous past catches up to them, they must risk everything to claim the happily ever after they both crave.

From a USA Today bestselling author comes a mountain family saga filled with high stakes adventure, a surprise guardianship, and love that heals wounded hearts.

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts: 

I have really been invested in the Coulter family since the beginning of this series. After the last book and Jonah letting Naomi go so, she and Eric could be a family, I could hardly wait for his story. And here it is, and it was filled with romance and action and more of the familial love of the Coulter's.

Jonah has been searching for little Anna's missing aunt for some months. After finally finding her, he sees that she is quite a remarkable woman, sometimes he doesn't even know what to think of her.

Patience has a harder life than she would have liked. Some of it due to her own stupid choices and others due to the relationship she had with her father. Now finding out she only has her niece left of her family, she is bound and determined to do right by her. If only her feelings for Jonah would stop getting in the way. Could he really be different than every other man she has known? Even those who should have loved her unconditionally like her father and late husband but only let her down.

I enjoyed going on this journey of true love and the realization that Jonah and Patience have about their own self-worth. This was a great continuation of this series where Jonah finds his true love with a woman who is different than any he has ever meant before.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author with over 1 million books old. She writes romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

More from Misty

A glimpse into our heroine’s world

In Winning the Mountain Man’s Love, Patience’s work as a gambler in the mining town Missoula Mills plays a significant role in shaping her character and her journey. But what was the reality of gambling in this time and place?

During the 1870s, the Montana Territory was a wild, untamed land, attracting adventurers, miners, and those seeking to make their fortune by profiting from the miners. With the influx of men and money, gambling became a prevalent pastime and a lucrative business. Saloons, gaming houses, and even street corners became hubs for various games of chance, including poker, faro, and dice.

For many, gambling offered a quick path to wealth, but it also led to addiction, debt, and desperation. The lack of regulation and high stakes often attracted unsavory characters, making the gambling scene a dangerous and unpredictable world.

Women like Patience, who found themselves caught up in this world, faced even greater challenges. They were often viewed as mere entertainers or worse, and their involvement in gambling was seen as a mark of moral failure. However, for some women, gambling provided a means of survival in a society that offered few opportunities for financial independence.

Despite the risks and the societal stigma, gambling continued to thrive in the Montana Territory throughout the 1870s. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that anti-gambling laws and reformers began to push back against the pervasive gaming culture.

Thankfully, Patience didn’t have to wait so long to leave the gambling world behind her, but that life certainly left its mark on her. I won’t share any spoilers, but I pray you enjoy Patience and Jonah’s story in Winning the Mountain Man’s Love!

Blessings!

Misty

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 3

Melissa’s Bookshelf, September 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 4

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 5

Truth and Grace HomeschoolAcademy, September 6

Devoted To Hope, September 6

Lighthouse Academy Blog, September 7 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)

Texas Book-aholic, September 8

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 8

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 9

lakesidelivingsite, September 10

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, September 10

Books You Can Feel Good About, September 11

Stories By Gina, September 12 (Author Interview)

For Him and My Family, September 12

Blossoms and Blessings, September 13

Holly’s Book Corner, September 14

Jeanette’s Thoughts, September 14

Cover Lover Book Review, September 15

An Author’s Take, September 16

Pause for Tales, September 16

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Misty is giving away he grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5430/


Saturday, September 14, 2024

My Thoughts and More on Justice Delayed by Sarah Hamaker

 



About the Book


 
Book: Justice Delayed

Author: Sarah Hamaker

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: May 15, 2024

Journalist Brogan Gilmore had been a rising star when an unethical shortcut on a story leads to his fall from grace. A chance encounter with convicted murderer Melender Harman a few months after her release from prison provides Brogan with a chance for career redemption—if he can land an interview with her.

After serving her 17-year sentence, Melender has one objective: To uncover the truth about what happened to her cousin the night the toddler disappeared. When Brogan pursues her for an exclusive story, she reluctantly agrees if he’ll help her reexamine the original investigation into Jesse’s presumed kidnapping and murder.

While re-investigating the case, Brogan struggles to keep his objectivity as he begins to believe Melender is innocent of the crime—and starts to envision a possible future together. Then a shocking discovery throws their relationship—and investigation—into turmoil.

As Brogan and Melender come closer to solving what happened to Jesse, will their budding relationship survive the truth?

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Thoughts:

Talk about family dysfunction and drama. This story had that in spades. So many secrets and underhanded deals were flowing through this family's dynamic. And that is not even the worst of it. The fact there is a little boy who is gone, and his young cousin has taken the blame in what appears to be a massive cover up makes the title of this story fitting.

Melender, an unusual name, is finally out of prison after serving her time of seventeen years in jail. How she survived that nightmare is a miracle, especially since she was convicted as a baby killer, but only with circumstantial evidence. However, she is out now and just trying to keep low, but her family will not let her. The harassment and the threats begin anew. Since Mel is innocent of the charges she gets help from an unlikely source. An investigative reporter, Brogan Gilmore, who fell from grace, is willing to help her look into the closed case. But there are some who will stop at nothing to keep the truth buried and the blame solely on Melender.

This was a riveting read that showed faith and forgiveness in action. I don't know that many of us would have been able to survive like Mel did.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author


An award-winning and best-selling author of inspirational romantic suspense, Sarah Hamaker loves writing books “where the hero and heroine fall in love while running for their lives.” She’s an AWSA certified writer and speaker coach, and podcaster of “The Romantic Side of Suspense.” Sarah lives in Virginia with her husband, four children and three cats.

 

 

 

 

More from Sarah

When Stories Teach Us Valuable Lessons

As a rather shy child, books became both my friends and teachers. While I had a few close friends, I spent hours of my childhood and teen years reading a plethora of books. I visited far away places and long ago times. I met famous people and viewed historical events. I solved my share of mysteries and wept with the characters over losses. I fell in love with heroes and rooted for heroines to save the day.

Researchers have discovered that literary fiction can improve your capacity to understand what others are thinking and feeling. Literary fiction also teaches us about social behavior, including how to view the world through other people’s eyes. In other words, reading fiction helps us develop empathy as well as allows us to experience the ups and downs of someone else’s life and thus become more able to handle similar situations in our own lives.

While I didn’t set out to write Justice Delayed with this research in mind, early reviews of the book have touched on that theme. For example, one reader said, “One of my favorite quotes is when [Melender, my heroine] defends her action of true forgiveness to [Brogan, my hero], ‘It was for my good and His eternal glory that I went to prison for a crime I didn’t commit. That didn’t mean I gave up trying to find justice in this world-it meant I didn’t despair when justice didn’t come.’ Wow! What a lesson in forgiveness and letting go of bitterness which in turn provided a peace that cannot be matched. She never allowed bitterness to take hold of her heart.”

Another reviewer said this: “Greed, politics and outright evil are a part of story, but the truth and goodness shine through it all as the walls start crumbling down, and you learn what truly happened that night. This was one of the best inspirational suspense books that I have read in quite some time. It left an impression on me, even if the message came from a fictional character.”

And another pointed this out: “Not only did Melender teach those around her how to forgive, but Melender taught me that lesson at well.”

While I had written Justice Delayed five years ago, I recently finished reading the late Tim Keller’s last book, Forgive, which touched on themes I explore in my book. Today, we so often ignore forgiveness as being too hard, too messy to offer and much too difficult to receive. Melender’s story is one example of how you can extend forgiveness even when it’s not been requested and to live a life of forgiveness in extremely arduous circumstances. Keller’s book has challenged me in many ways to forgive more without strings attached.

What have you learned from a book recently?

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 4

Inspired by Fiction, September 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 5

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 6

Texas Book-aholic, September 7

Locks, Hooks and Books, September 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 10

For Him and My Family, September 11

lakesidelivingsite, September 12

Holly’s Book Corner, September 13

Pause for Tales, September 14

Cover Lover Book Review, September 15

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, September 15

Lights in a Dark World, September 16

Stories By Gina, September 17 (Author Interview)

Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Sarah is giving away the grand prize package of a $75 Amazon Gift Card, a print copy of Justice Delayed, and the following Justice Delayed-themed swag: Canvas Tote, Notebook and pen, Drink Coaster, Bookmark, and Sticker!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5431


Thursday, September 12, 2024

My Thoughts on Target Acquired by Lynette Eason

 

About:

She's finally exactly where she wants to be.
Unfortunately, she's also in the crosshairs of a killer.

After years of training, tough-as-nails Kenzie King has earned her place as a tactical medic on a SWAT team. But not everyone on the all-male team accepts her. Rumor is, she got the position not because of what she could do but because of who she knew. Which means she has to work harder and longer than anyone else to prove herself.
  
Cole Garrison is a man with deep faith who is finally ready to settle down and build a family of his own--if he can find the right person, that is. Kenzie sure has set off his interest meter, but trouble seems to follow in her wake. Since she joined the team, someone has begun to ambush and pick off team members one by one.
  
It's all hands on deck to discover the culprit and end the killing. Can Kenzie and Cole put aside their differences and work together as a team? Or will their budding attraction be snuffed out by a sniper's bullet?

My Thoughts:

This was quite a tension filled read. A lot was going on and I really enjoyed the whole arc of the story. This deals with present day and the dangers the SWAT team face, but there is actually a bit of a glimpse back to the year 1947 in a mental hospital. There we see how our two main characters' families are connected and a bit of the history there. Though that wasn't a lot, and it was not the main focus, that little story fascinated me.

Kenzie King is the only female on the SWAT team, and she is their acting medic. There was a lot of workplace drama that was taking place. The author does a very good job of showing both sides of the situation, man and woman, their individual strengths and weaknesses. This added to Kenzie's stress on top of the fact that someone seemed to be intentionally trying to kill her. 

Cole is her supervisor and is trying very hard not to fall head over heels for her. He is also trying to treat her like he would everybody else on the team, but with her he is extra protective. Danger continues to amplify as each member seems to be in the crosshairs and other secrets come to the surface. This was an intense read and so very hard to put down.

I was provided a copy of this novel from Revell Publishers through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a positive review, and all views and opinions are my own.

About the Author:


Lynette Eason is the USA Today bestselling author of Double Take and Target Acquired, as well as the Extreme Measures, Danger Never Sleeps, Blue Justice, Women of Justice, Deadly Reunions, Hidden Identity, and Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of three ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, among others. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and has a master's degree in education from Converse College. Eason lives in South Carolina with her husband. They have two adult children. Learn more at LynetteEason.com.

Monday, September 9, 2024

My Thoughts and More on A Proposal for Her Cowboy by Cari Lynn Webb

 

A Proposal for Her Cowboy JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Proposal for Her Cowboy by Cari Lynn Webb, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

A Proposal for Her Cowboy

Title: A Proposal for Her Cowboy
Series:
Three Springs, Texas #7
Author:
Cari Lynn Webb
Publisher:
Harlequin Heartwarming
Release Date:
August 20, 2024
Genre: Clean & Wholesome Contemporary Romance

Family brought her home…  

Can love make her stay? 

Now that she’s finally back in Three Springs, Texas, Deputy Sheriff Lacey Nash wants nothing more than to reconnect with her nine-year-old daughter, Aspen. Carefree Caleb Sloan is just a distraction—even if he is surprisingly helpful. He not only pitches in to train Aspen for the junior rodeo contest, but he also makes Lacey feel both welcome in town and truly special. Though will that be enough for by-the-book Lacey…to let this fun-loving cowboy prove he’s ready for an instant family?  

USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More Books in This Series

    Her Cowboy Wedding Date

   


About the Author

Cari Lynn Webb

Cari Lynn Webb lives in Florida with her husband. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers.

Connect with Cari at carilynnwebb.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.