The Maid of Ballymacool

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!!

I have started looking forward to this time of the year. Not because I’m a huge St. Patrick’s Day fan, but because I know around this time, we will get a new Jennifer Deibel book! I’ve quickly fallen for her historical depiction of the people of Ireland and their often tragic stories. I’ve loved every single one! Please don’t make me pick a favorite! They are each so unique in their history and in their characters, they are all treasures for your bookshelf.

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Here’s more about her newest release, The Maid of Ballymacool:

Title: The Maid of Ballymacool

Author: Jennifer Deibel

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: February 21, 2023

Blurb:

Brianna Kelly has worked at Ballymacool House and Boarding School since she was a wee girl and will likely die there. Despite a sense that she was made for something more, Brianna feels powerless to change her situation, so she consoles herself by exploring the Ballymacool grounds, looking for hidden treasures to add to the secret trove beneath the floorboards of her room.

When Michael Wray, the son of local gentry, is sent to Ballymacool to deal with his unruly cousin, he finds himself drawn to Brianna, immediately and inescapably. There is something about her that feels so . . . familiar.

When Brianna unearths an intriguing silver platter in the woods, she commits to learning its origins. Could the handsome newcomer hold the key? If so, their discovery could change everything.

Purchase your copy from Baker Book House or your favorite book retailer.

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My Review:

The Maid of Ballymacool is a fantastic historical romance set in Ireland with a touch of a gothic feel to it. I have enjoyed all of Jennifer Deibel’s novels. She does an excellent job painting the landscape of Ireland and making you yearn for a visit to the Emerald Isle yourself!

The characters in this story are wonderfully thought out and grounded. From the secretive free-spirit of Brianna, the motherly nature of Finnuala, or the vengeful temperament of Magee, they all work together to make a beautiful story.

I loved the romance in this novel. It is sweet. It is slow-burn, and it is just right. Their love was not one made up of one romantic gesture after another but by serving each other with Christ-like love. Michael is a perfect gentleman by breeding but also by faith, and I love how he is willing to go against convention to use his name and circumstance to help others. He’s a keeper for sure!

Overall, I loved this novel and had a hard time setting it down. I wanted to know the answer to the many mysteries in the story, and I was not disappointed. I highly recommend you take a trip to Ballymacool with Michael and Brianna! 

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I hope you all get a chance to visit Ballymacool this St. Patty’s Day!

Happy Reading and God bless!

Relational Reset by Laurel Shaler

Welcome to the Blog + Review Blitz for Relational Reset by Laurel Shaler, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Relational Reset

Author: Laurel Shaler

Publisher: Moody

Release Date: February 2019

Genre: Christian Living (non-fiction)

From the author of “Reclaiming Sanity: Hope and Healing for Trauma, Stress, and Overwhelming Life Events” comes this Selah Award Finalist on a topic everyone can relate to: Relationships. So, are your relationships all that you want them to be?

Despite our best intentions, we all have blind spots–bad relational habits that are keeping us from enjoying our relationships fully. And since relationships stand at the center of all we are and all we do, if we can learn to do relationships better, every aspect of our lives improves. Whether you struggle to overcome past wounds, insecurity, blame, or envy, it’s time to reflect on your relational habits and reset them so that your relationships can be all you want them to be.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | Christianbook | BookBub

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My Review

Relational Reset by Dr. Laurel Shaler is an important read for anyone who wants to have healthier relationships. Even if you feel like your relationship are solid, there’s something in this book for you. The author does a great job of helping you self-reflect and identify areas in your own behavior or mind that may need improvement–all without being preachy or judgmental. And I was very impressed with how Dr. Shaler incorporated faith into each area of potential growth and healing within relationships. I felt like the faith element was incorporated naturally into each chapter and was an added inspiration to change your way of thinking. I thought the personal questions at the end of each chapter were both a good review of the topic covered and helped me to apply the points Dr. Shaler made to my personal experience.

Overall, I felt like this was a very informative and relevant book for today’s world. Having the added bonus of a faith perspective made it an even better read for me. I would emphasize that even if you aren’t having major problems in your relationships, you can still learn from this book! I look forward to other titles by this author.

I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

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About the Author

Dr. Laurel Shaler is a licensed mental health professional and a Professor at Liberty University . She has contributed to many well-known publications including Lifeway’s Journey, Guideposts, and Proverbs 31 Ministries. Laurel is the author of “Reclaiming Sanity: Hope and Healing for Trauma, Stress, and Overwhelming Life Events” (David C. Cook, 2016) and “Relational Reset: Unlearning the Habits that Hold You Back” (Moody, 2018). She regularly speaks on a wide variety of topics, and has been interviewed by Building Relationships, Focus on the Family, and more. Most importantly, Laurel is a follower of Jesus Christ and seeks to share His love with others. She and her family live in the Deep South.

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

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of the book and $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight February 1, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 8, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Ebook available international. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway Here

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Into the Spotlight by Leslea Wahl

Do you have any books from your teen years that really bring back the memories?

I feel like Into the Spotlight by Leslea Wahl would definitely be one of those books. Josie, the main character, is so genuine and relatable that teenage girls will immediately love her and identify with her struggles. I know I did, and I’m no teenage girl! Keep scrolling to learn more about the story, its author, and the tour giveaway!

That’s why I’m excited to join the blog tour through JustRead Publicity Tours for Into the Spotlight by Leslea Wahl!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Into the Spotlight

Series: Finding Faith

Author: Leslea Wahl

Publisher: Vinspire Publishing

Release Date: October 25, 2022

Genre: Christian YA, adventure, mystery, romance

The devastation of a ruined summer.

The gift of a second chance.

Can Josie learn the lessons she needs to discover her true self?

After a humiliating event and overwhelming peer pressure, 16-year-old Josie flees her home to spend the summer with her aunt on a South Carolina Island. Her fresh start turns into the summer of her dreams as friendships grow, romance blossoms, and a series of thefts surround her with excitement.

However, when tragedy strikes someone close to her, Josie realizes there are more important things than her reputation. As she sets out to solve the mystery she has become entangled in, she not only realizes the importance of relying on her faith but along the way also discovers who God wants her to be.

PURCHASE LINKS: Amazon | Goodreads | Barnes & Noble

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MY THOUGHTS

Into the Spotlight by Leslea Wahl is a young adult, contemporary novel. It follows a teenage girl, Josie, as she sets out on a summer of renewal and restoration. I am not a young adult, but I enjoyed this story and its spiritual lessons. The almost tropical location of South Carolina’s Coral Island is so beautiful, relaxing, and cozy–it’s like going on your own vacation! Keeping up with Josie was quite entertaining, from her random insertion of musical theater into all conversations to her quirky sense of humor and accident-prone life. I found her to be very relatable, and I think kids her age would feel the same. I felt like the spiritual lessons in this book were spot on with what teenagers are having to deal with today. They were blended into the story well, and Josie’s spiritual journey was one of gradual, realistic growth. There’s a little romance in this story but it’s all sweet with no steam. One of my favorite things about Into the Spotlight is that it teaches teenagers to look beyond themselves when dealing with their problems and to serve others despite their own hardships. This is such a great lesson even for adults, but to instill it in our younger generation is a fabulous thing.

Overall, I was thoroughly entertained by Josie and her summer of restoration/revival. I loved the action and mystery, the romance, and the personal growth of such a vibrant, young woman. I would definitely recommend this to young teenagers in my life.

I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leslea Wahl is an award-winning author of adventurous teen mysteries. She not only writes for teens but is also an avid reviewer of Christian fiction. Her journey to become an author came through a search for value-based fiction for her own children. Leslea now strives to be an advocate for other families battling against society’s secular messages through her faith-based writing and reviews.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Into the Spotlight, bookmark, bible verse magnet, and designer soap!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 4, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 11, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Thanks for stopping by the blog today! Don’t forget to follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops! Happy reading and God bless,

Kristina

Book Review: Sundown

Do you have a favorite family in fiction? Since I read across several genres within Christian fiction, I’m not sure I can pick just one…BUT I’ll give you a couple. When it comes to historical romance, my favorite group is the Archers from Karen Witmeyer’s The Archer brothers series. It’s never a dull day around those handsome heroes. And when it comes to contemporary romance I loved the Bradford sisters in Becky Wade’s series and the Bloom family in Tara Grace Ericson’s Bloom Sisters series. But when it comes to romantic suspense, the Kingston brothers from Susan May Warren definitely win!

If you haven’t had the chance to meet Dodge, Ranger, or Colt Kingston, then hurry on over to your favorite bookstore and start with Dodge’s story, Sunrise. Then, you MUST read Ranger’s story, Sunburst. And wrap it up with Colt’s story, Sundown! Their adventures will keep you on the edge of your seat and draw you into their warrior family.

Here’s more about the newest release, Sundown.

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About the Book:

Title: Sundown

Author: Susan May Warren

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: November 1, 2022

From the Back Cover:

He doesn’t trust her . . . but he can’t let her go it alone

Former Delta Operative Colt Kingston knows when someone is lying. He may not know the truth, but he sure doesn’t trust Tae, the mysterious woman his family rescued from an Alaskan blizzard. Behind those beautiful blue eyes, Colt can tell there is a troubled–and smart–woman.

A few of her stories prove true–they found the crashed plane and the dead body inside. Still, her tale of survival seems too incredible to believe . . . until the thugs she claims to be hunting her across Alaska show up and threaten Sky King Ranch. Now Tae must disappear, along with her secrets.

Colt will have to track her down and earn her trust before it’s too late. It’ll take the entire family to save the world from disaster.

The epic conclusion to Susan May Warren’s Sky King Ranch trilogy.

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My Thoughts:

Sundown by Susan May Warren is the third book in her Sky King Ranch series. I recommend reading the books in order as the characters and story develop through each book. Sundown focuses on Colt and the mysterious woman who has been recuperating at the Sky King ranch, Tae. As usual, when the Kingston men are around, trouble is always around the corner. The story’s pace (and the romance!) keeps you turning pages as you deploy on one op after another with these warrior men. I loved seeing a softer, more reasonable side of Colt. In the other books, he was always distant and cocky. But on closer inspection, he’s got a soft heart in there–it’s just hidden by his kevlar. I enjoyed the interplay between Colt and Tae, the give and take that must happen in all relationships but especially in those where one half is stepping into battle on a regular basis. I loved seeing the growth in Tae. The strength she found. The courage she claimed. She is a perfect match for Colt.

Since this is the last book in the series, I’m glad the other brothers made strong appearances. There’s just something right about them working together to save people. They were definitely made for fighting evil, and the author captures their different warrior hearts so well.

Overall, this is one of my favorite romantic suspense series. I’d highly recommend it to anyone, but especially if you are a fan of Lynette Eason or Dani Pettrey. Sundown, and the rest of the series should be on your TBR!

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

A big thank you to Revell for the copy they provided as part of the Revell Reads program.

I hope you all enjoy the story!

Happy reading and God bless,

Kristina

The Secret Garden Devotional

What were your favorite stories as a young child? I remember reading such books as Peter Pan, The Little House Series, and real-life stories found in historical reads. But I remember the story of The Secret Garden fondly. I was an only child, so I often played outside alone. And the idea of finding a key that led into a secret world all my own was fascinating. i wished for my own secret place! And I loved how the garden flourished alongside its young master, Mary.

So, I’m excited that today I get to host on my blog, the Blog Tour for The Secret Garden Devotional by Rachel Dodge, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Secret Garden Devotional

Author: Rachel Dodge

Publisher: Barbour

Release Date: December 6, 2022

Genre: Devotional

Devotional Inspiration from Mary Lennox’s Beautifully Mysterious Secret Garden

The Secret Garden Devotional offers lovely inspiration that explores the themes of faith, family, contentment, wisdom, and joy in the classic Frances Hodgson Burnett novel, cherished by generations of readers.

Each reading corresponds with a chapter from the book and invites you to embrace God’s guiding hand in your life as you are becoming His new creation. With themes of growth, spiritual nourishment, God’s love and care, and His transforming power, this beautiful chapter-by-chapter devotional includes original artwork throughout. Each reading includes examples from the novel, scripture, life application, and prayers perfect for groups, book clubs, or personal reflection.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound

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MY REVIEW

The Secret Garden Devotional by Rachel Dodge is a beautifully put-together study that follows the classic book chapter by chapter. The illustrations are lovely and are reminiscent of the beauty of the original story. But even better are the direct connections the author makes of Mary’s experiences in the pages of The Secret Garden with Scripture. I never felt like the author had to stretch to make a point, but the lessons Mary learned translated well into what the Father wants us to learn. I loved The Secret Garden as a young girl, and I think this devotional would be perfect to read on your own or with a young lady, like Mary. It is not necessary to read The Secret Garden as you read this devotional, but it would add to the depth of devotions. 

Overall, The Secret Garden Devotional is a unique and beautifully put-together Bible study tool. It would make a great gift for lovers of the classic story, whether young or old.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rachel Dodge is the bestselling author of the award-winning Anne of Green Gables Devotional, The Little Women Devotional, and Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen. Rachel’s newest book is The Secret Garden Devotional! Rachel teaches college English classes, gives talks at libraries, teas, and book clubs, and is a writer for the popular Jane Austen’s World blog. She is passionate about encouraging and equipping women to grow closer to Jesus through prayer and the study of God’s Word. A true kindred spirit at heart, Rachel enjoys books, bonnets, and ball gowns.

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

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(2) winners will receive a signed copy of The Secret Garden Devotional and a hardcover illustrated copy of The Secret Garden along with a bookmark and stickers.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 30, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 7, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Book Review: The Lost Melody

One thing I loved about the Christian fiction market is the wide variety of voices in all those stories on the shelf. I have come to appreciate the more lyrical writers, like Joanna Davidson Politano, so I was VERY excited to receive The Lost Melody in the mail as part of the Revell blogging program. Not only is this cover GORGEOUS, but the story inside is beautifully complicated and emotionally engaging from page one–ONE!

Keep reading to find out more about the book, where you can purchase your copy, and my full review! Thank you to Revell Books for my copy.

More About The Lost Melody:

Title: The Lost Melody

Author: Joanna Davidson Politano

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: October, 4, 2022

Blurb:

When concert pianist Vivienne Mourdant’s father dies, he leaves to her the care of a patient at Hurstwell Asylum. Vivienne had no idea the woman existed, and yet her portrait is shockingly familiar. When the asylum claims she was never a patient there, Vivienne is compelled to discover what happened to the figure she remembers from childhood dreams.

The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know.

But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?

Joanna Davidson Politano casts a delightful spell with this lyrical look into the nature of women’s independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era–and now.

You can get your copy here.

My Review:

The Lost Melody by Joanna Davidson Politano is a poetic symphony for the senses. The author walks you through the horrific hallways of darkness while urging you to search for the light. Vivienne’s tale is horrifying–the line between madness and sanity blurred beyond recognition. I can’t count the times, the hairs on my arm stood on end as I followed Vivienne into the shadows. She is amazingly resilient, courageous, and steadfast in her faith. She’s no stranger to the dark, and you will be entranced by how she fights against it with her light.

While this story is not an easy read, it is an intoxicating one. I was immediately drawn into Vivienne’s plight and could hardly put the book down for want of knowing the end. I would highly recommend this story for any historical fiction/romance fans, especially those who love the Victorian age. I’ve read other stories of asylums during this time, and this one, in particular, is both fascinating and terrifying in revealing how these types of institutions used to function and how easy it was for a person to disappear forever.

I always enjoy watching characters mature spiritually on their journeys (that’s why I read Christian fiction), but I especially loved the spiritual arc in Vivienne’s story. It was a tough and beautiful reminder to truly surrender ourselves to our Creator and to follow His music instead of trying to compose our own.

I received a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I hope you enjoy this story as much as I did! It would be a great addition to your Christmas list. 🙂

Happy reading and God bless,

Kristina

Book Review: Beneath the Bending Skies

Hello! Have you been enjoying some fall weather in your neck of the woods? It’s finally starting to feel more like autumn and less like hot and humid summer around here, so I am LOVING it! Anything to let me pull out my flannel shirts. If you see me in the next few months, I’ll probably be wearing one. They are a cold-weather favorite. What’s something you enjoy about this season?

Another thing I love is having a great book to snuggle with on these crisp autumn nights. This week, I’ve been cozying up with Jane Kirkpatrick’s new release, Beneath the Bending Skies. It is such an interesting historical read! Knowing the main characters are real and that their lives touched so many others in the West, especially Montana, just makes this story even more special. And be sure to Google Mollie Sheehan Ronan so you can see a picture of her fabulous hair that’s mentioned in the story so many times. Wow!

Keep reading to find purchase links and my full review.

More About the Book:

Title: Beneath the Bending Skies

Author: Jane Kirkpatrick

Publisher: Revell

Back Cover Blurb:

Bound by duty–loosed by destiny

Mollie Sheehan has spent much of her life striving to be a dutiful daughter and honor her father’s wishes, even when doing so has led to one heartbreak after another. After all, what options does she truly have in 1860s Montana? But providing for her stepfamily during her father’s long absences doesn’t keep her from wishing for more.

When romance blooms between her and Peter Ronan, Mollie finally allows herself to hope for a brighter future–until her father voices his disapproval of the match and moves her to California to ensure the breakup. Still, time and providence are at work, even when circumstances are at their bleakest. Mollie may soon find that someone far greater than her father is in control of the course of her life–and that even the command to “honor thy father” has its limits.

Get your copy here.

My Thoughts:

Beneath the Bending Skies by Jane Kirkpatrick is an eloquent and unique work of historical fiction. Based on real-life events, this story focuses on Mollie Sheehan Ronan and her experiences growing up and forging her own way in the wilds of the West. 

This is my second Jane Kirkpatrick book, and I love her writing style. Reading like a memoir, Mollies story is delivered intimately, full of details of her life and the emotions that troubled her for many years. I grew to love Mollie: her passion for life, her quick wit, her love of books, and her desire to please God. I even did a Google search to learn more about her!

The author does a fantastic job of building the landscape of the West with her words. I grew fond of the land alongside Mollie and felt her loss as she left the beauty of Montana behind. In every way, I felt fully immersed in Mollie’s story from beginning to end.

What I love the most about this kind of story is that it keeps history alive. Mollie’s memory lives on. Her life, though maybe not extraordinary by some standards, was still beautiful, emotional, and inspirational. And now, it’s been given new life through Jane Kirkpatrick’s talented words.

Fans of historical fiction will enjoy learning about Mollie and the impact of her life on history.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

You history lovers out there will want to try this story. I hope it helps keep you warm and cozy on a fall evening!

Happy reading and God bless,

Kristina

Blog Blitz: The Lady’s Triumph

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Lady’s Triumph by Shelly Adina & R.E. Scott, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours! I’ve been so excited to read The Lady’s Triumph, the last book in the Regent’s Devices series. What fantastical plan will Loveday and Celeste invent this time? Keep reading for more details on this unique and adventuresome story!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Lady’s Triumph
Series: The Regent’s Devices #3
Author: Shelley Adina and R.E. Scott
Publisher: Moonshell Books
Release Date: September 28, 2022
Genre: Regency Steampunk

Only one thing could be worse than Napoleon’s invasion of England…

After their daring adventures behind enemy lines in France, Loveday Penhale and Celeste Blanchard cannot settle into everyday life at home. Has the Tinkering Prince forgotten them entirely? What of the prize he promised? Then, with the flourish of a royal messenger’s hand, their lives are changed. Not only have they won the prize, they are to join the Prince’s Own Engineers in London!

They must overcome many a stone in the path, however—leave all they love, find a suitable house, and worst of all, cope with a chaperone—before they can take their rightful places among the most intelligent and forward-thinking minds in the kingdom. Their goal? To develop an airborne fleet that will end Napoleon’s dreams of conquering England forever.

But the saboteur who has been plaguing their efforts for months has not yet been caught. And along with battling for acceptance among the engineers, tiptoeing closer to falling in love, and receiving invitations to Almack’s, they must discover the traitor’s identity … before the Prince Regent steps forward to command the fleet and finds himself playing right into Napoleon’s hands.

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

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MY THOUGHTS

The Lady’s Triumph is the third and final book in the Regent’s Devices series by Shelley Adina and R. E. Scott. I have enjoyed the almost magical adventure of Celeste and Loveday as they use every ounce of ingenuity and imagination to try to defeat Napoleon with their original inventions, the pinnacle of which is a daring aircraft. I love, love, love the characters in this story. They are so wonderfully and artfully designed that I crave the next conversation to see their personalities on display. Loveday, of course, is a favorite, and I love the balance of Arthur in her life. Their sweet romance is full of swoony moments–especially when he stands up for her and her accomplishments.

This series has been one fantastic adventure after another. So, be prepared in this book to sit for a long while and feast on the suspense. I could hardly put the book down without knowing what would happen next. Competitive Inventors. Gentlemanly Suitors. Ballgowns and Dancing. And a touch of espionage. There’s so much to love in this story, and if you are a fan of steampunk or Regency romance, I hope you will add this book to the top of your TBR pile! But please do read them in order. You won’t be disappointed!

I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Shelley Adina is the author of more than 50 novels published by Harlequin, Warner, Hachette, and Moonshell Books, Inc., her own independent press. She writes steampunk adventure and mystery as Shelley Adina; as Charlotte Henry, writes classic Regency romance; and as Adina Senft, is the USA Today bestselling author of Amish women’s fiction. She holds a PhD in Creative Writing from Lancaster University in the UK, won RWA’s RITA Award® in 2005, and was a finalist in 2006. When she’s not writing, Shelley is usually quilting, sewing historical costumes, or enjoying the garden with her flock of rescued chickens.

R.E. (Regina) Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t sell her first novel until she learned a bit more about writing. She now has had published more than 60 works of warm, witty historical romance for Harlequin, Penguin, and Revell. Regina and her husband of more than 30 years reside in the Puget Sound area of Washington State on the way to Mt Rainier. She has dressed as a Regency dandy, learned to fence, driven four-in-hand, and sailed on a tall ship, all in the name of research, of course.

Connect with Shelley by visiting shelleyadina.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates. Connect with R.E. Scott by visiting reginascott.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(3) winners will receive a copy of The Emperor’s Aeronaut and The Prince’s Pilot (print + bookmarks US only, ebook internationally).

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 27, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 4, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Print + bookmarks US only, ebook internationally.Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Book Review: The Last Way Home

Summer is doing its best to wrap things up around here. School has started. The temperatures have dropped a good ten degrees. And even a few of the trees are starting to show some color. As one season comes to an end and another begins, the lessons from Liz Johnson’s newest release, The Last Way Home, shine even brighter. It’s the perfect book to read while cozied in your hammock, watching a few yellow leaves spiral down around you. It’s a book of endings and new beginnings. And I highly recommend you put it on your fall TBR!

Keep reading to find my full review and where to purchase your own copy!

About the Book:

Every broken thing can be made beautiful again

When Eli Ross left Prince Edward Island to join the NHL, he left a broken family behind. More than a decade later, he’s headed home to an uncertain welcome. He wants to make things right with the family he wronged, but his mom’s business partner isn’t making it easy. To top it off, the coaching job he takes turns out to be more of a challenge than he anticipated.

For years, Violet Donaghy has put everything she had into making Eli’s mom’s ceramics shop a success, and she’s not eager to forgive the man who hurt the family that’s taken her in as one of their own. But when the kiln at the shop starts a fire that nearly destroys the studio, she’ll need all the help she can get to save the business and their summer income.

When Eli and Violet come together, they must find the strength to mend the broken pieces of the Ross family–and to heal their own hearts.

Purchase your own copy here.

My Thoughts:

The Last Way Home by Liz Johnson is the second book in the Prince Edward Island Shores series. This book focuses on the oldest Ross brother, Eli. The Prodigal Son returns to the island in search of the family he’s missed for eleven long years. When he clashes with the woman who helped heal his mother’s broken heart, he’s surprised to find someone who is also familiar with guilt, shame, and heartache.

The beautiful and relaxing landscapes of Prince Edward Island are the perfect backdrop for Eli and Violet to confront the ugly and painful parts of their past together. I shed real tears over their heartache and cheered for them as they fought through their grief and regret. It was captivating to watch two very broken souls find a way to mend their scars and allow the threads of healing to knit them tightly together.

These characters will work their way into your heart and not let go, even after you’ve finished reading. If you’re looking for a soul-cleansing story of redemption, then Eli and Violet’s story deserves a spot on your bookshelf!

I’m looking forward to Levi’s story releasing next year!

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own. 

I hope this new season brings you many blessings. As the world changes around us, let us keep our eyes focused on the One who is in control of it all.

Happy reading and God bless,

Kristina

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip Book Review

I would never deny that I’m a fan of romance, but I also enjoy reading women’s fiction–especially exceptional stories like The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip by Sara Brunsvold. I love reading books that challenge my faith, and Mrs. Clara Kip and her extraordinary love for others definitely convicted me. How often do we seek to do the Lord’s work in all circumstances? How often do we love despite the sacrifice of our own hearts?

This story and its characters will linger in my heart for some time. I can’t recommend it enough!

Keep reading for more about this amazing story and to find purchase links. Thank you to Revell for my copy!

About the Book

A throwaway assignment is about to change two lives forever

Aidyn Kelley is talented, ambitious, and ready for a more serious assignment than the fluff pieces she’s been getting as a cub reporter for the Kansas City Star. In her eagerness, she pushes too hard, earning herself the menial task of writing an obituary for an unremarkable woman who’s just entered hospice care.

But there’s more to Clara Kip than meets the eye. The spirited septuagenarian may be dying, but she’s not quite ready to cash it in yet. Never one to shy away from an assignment herself, she can see that God brought the young reporter into her life for a reason. And if it’s a story Aidyn Kelley wants, that’s just what Mrs. Kip will give her–but she’s going to have to work for it.

You can purchase your copy here.

My Thoughts

The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip by Sara Brunsvold is an exceptional piece of women’s fiction. It was a pleasure to discover the depth of Mrs. Kip’s life right alongside the young Star reporter, Aidyn Kelley. Mrs. Kip’s golden spiritual insights were hard-earned, but seeing how she lived them and gave them away was incredibly inspirational. Mrs. Clara Kelley is not just a fictional gem, but a woman who can work off the page in convicting and inspiring God’s warriors to love and fight in His name. This is the kind of soul-touching story that will stay in my heart for a long time and will be on the top of the list of my favorite books of 2022.

Fans of women’s fiction will fall in love with this story. 

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Thanks for stopping by the blog! I hope you get a chance to read The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip. It will captivate you! And it would make an excellent gift for any Christian woman in your life.

Happy reading and God bless,

Kristina