Out of Time

 

Description: 

For historical anthropologist Cara Tucker, the chance to spend a sabbatical semester on a remote country estate--with full access to its vast library and centuries-old journals--is a dream come true . . . until a series of strange incidents begin to turn her dream into a nightmare. Someone, it seems, does not want anyone diving into the past and unearthing old ghosts.
 
Sheriff Brad Adams has seen his share of suspicious activities during his law enforcement career, but what's happening at the isolated estate is out-of-pattern in his quiet, rural Missouri county. Beset by danger, Cara and Brad work together to try to untangle the clues. But when the peril turns lethal, the situation takes on a new urgency, and their mission is clear: Find out who is behind the string of menacing incidents before the perpetrator strikes another deadly blow. 

Review: 

Cara Tucker is on a unique sabbatical from her professorship as she and her elderly friend, Natalie, work on translating a set of journals that are written in a dying language. There are several things happening in this story which creates a suspenseful story.

Readers will enjoy this romantic suspense that includes several points of view. Cara also has a cochlear implant that I thought lent interest to her character. I was happy to see her family in the story who were featured in the previous books in the series. This did not affect the story, but it was fun to see them taking care of their sis.

I didn’t know anything about this particular language nor about the old Mines settlers who spoke it. I found that very interesting and read more about them after reading the book.

I received a copy of the book from Revell as well as NetGalley. All opinions in this review are my own.

The Heart of Bennet Hollow

Description:

New River, Virginia. 1904. Lizbeth Bennet longs to preserve her family’s farm, securing a future for her and her sisters, a difficult task in their Appalachian coal mining town. Money is scarce, and Lizbeth is determined to find a way without giving up treasured pieces of her family’s legacy. But when the mine is put up for sale, it’s clear change is approaching. A contingent of coal barons descends on the town to investigate whether the mine is worth their investment, among them a young man rumored to be a very rich, eligible bachelor.

William Drake arrives focused on business and keeping his distance from the townspeople, especially those living on land entangled with the mine, including a farmer by the name of Bennet. As William digs through legal issues, his struggle to weigh the potential financial gain against what is right for the community grows more complicated when he meets one of the Bennet daughters.

Despite an awkward first meeting, Lizbeth and William continue to cross paths, and soon Lizbeth questions her first impression of the man she believed to be proud and indifferent. But just as their friendship begins to evolve, a revelation shakes Lizbeth’s tenuous trust, and she learns all may not be as it seems. To determine what is true, and step toward a love she’s barely dared dream of, Lizbeth must confront her own prejudices . . . and decide whether the future she’s always imagined is the one her heart truly wants most after all.

Review: 

This is a retelling of Pride and Prejudice that is set in the coal country of Virginia in the early 1900’s. I loved the adaptation of the story with its complexities of the quiet and seemingly arrogant William Drake who is wanting to purchase the local mine. Suspicions and rumors abound in what will happen to the surrounding land, and particularly the Bennet’s land. William has a kind heart and I was happy with the solution he arrived at for the mine and the town.

I thought Aunt Catherine would be more of a force to reckon with, but once she confronts William about pursuing his relationship with Lizzy, she is not really an obstacle. I was hoping Reverend Coburn would be more annoying, but he is only mildly so.

Things to love:
small town
the setting
twist on Pemberly
the library
equine friends
the sampler

Favorite quote:
“The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.”

I recommend this historical romance to readers of all ages. William Drake is sure to become a favorite character, and you’ll love the Bennet family and the hollow.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions in this review are my own.

A Song in the Dark

 

Description:

Against the simmering backdrop of the impending WWII, blind virtuoso pianist Chaisley Frappier embarks on a concert tour through a rapidly changing Europe despite the dangers. When she learns that Hitler's escalating regime of injustice is targeting other disabled people, Chaisley realizes she is in a prime position to help those who are threatened reach safety. But the Führer's growing fascination with the celebrated musician endangers her undercover mission and forces her to walk a tightrope between her fame and her calling.

When Rick Zimmerman receives his next assignment from the British Secret Intelligence Service, he's surprised to learn he'll be acting as the personal driver of a world-renowned pianist as she traverses Europe. The role gives him the perfect cover to complete side missions of sabotage and intelligence-gathering, but he soon suspects the brilliant, alluring pianist has secrets of her own. As Chaisley and Rick confront evil at every turn, it will take every bit of faith and courage they possess to triumph over hate--and survive.

Review: 

Chaisley Frappier is a blind piano virtuoso who is world reknown for her ability to perform beautifully. With the world events happening as Hitler rises to power, she is torn whether to reveal her condition or keep it a secret. As she chooses to tell the world what happened, she runs the risk of being deemed inferior and therefore not necessary to a society that Hitler is creating. I loved how she chose to stand strong in her faith and stand up for what was right. Her grandmother was very influential in her life and showed her what kindness and compassion can do, one person at a time.

Rick Zimmermann becomes an integral part of Chaisley’s life. First, as an undercover SIS agent posing as her “chauffeur” and later as her protector. As he reveals his role to Chaisley and her guide Melanie, they join together to help people escape the atrocities that are occurring. The codes they created to communicate to others in the network were ingenious.

Things to look forward to:
faith
overcoming fear
fighting evil
danger
self- sacrifice

A favorite quote: “Fear will want to be our constant companion in the coming days, but we the Lord. Remind yourself that fear is not from him. Trust in that and in God.”

I recommend this if you enjoy historical romance, WWII settings, and a book where characters’ faith is evident.

I received a complimentary copy of the book with no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Skating and Fakae DAting

 

Description: 

She’s a disaster with a planner. He’s a perfectionist with a past—and their fake relationship just might be the biggest mess of all.

Bailey
I’m a walking contradiction—professional on the job, a hot mess at home, and working my “I’ve got this” smile until my cheeks ache while hiding my hobbies: making maple butter and finding a husband. With my perfect sister’s recent engagement, I’m desperate to avoid Mom’s pitying looks and matchmaking attempts.

Carson
I used to be hockey’s laid-back southern charmer until a crushing rejection from my high school sweetheart transformed me into a workaholic. When I’m unexpectedly traded to a new team, rumors circulate about whether the gentleman wingman lost his edge. I’ll do whatever it takes to prove them wrong.

Bailey
When our worlds collide after a dessert disaster, we come up with a mutually beneficial solution to our respective woes: a fake relationship. The rules are simple: I get a “successful” boyfriend for family events. He gets a “stable” girlfriend for team image. No feelings, no complications, and a definite expiration date.

Carson
But between posing as a couple at the fall festival, midnight maple butter-making sessions, trying to keep our stories straight, and undeniable chemistry, what started as a convenient lie is beginning to feel inconveniently real. As the clock runs down on our arrangement, we’ll have to decide: walk away when the final buzzer sounds, or take a shot at the love neither of us saw coming.

***

Skating and Fake Datingis a heartwarming hockey romcom featuring Bailey and ‘Bama who are perfect for each other in all the most imperfect ways, plus, small-town charm, family shenanigans, and a guaranteed happily ever after sweeter than homemade maple butter blondies.

Review: 

Carson needs a reboot in his career and personal life. Going to a new team is the fresh start he is looking for. I’m glad he was paired with Bailey to help him find his footing in Maple Falls. He is the best kind of man, defending Bailey when her sister wants to always bring up her “faults”. He is supportive and encourages Bailey to go for her dreams. Bailey feels as though she never gets things right. But, she actually is quite the opposite, being a liaison for NHL players as they make transitions from one team to another. She is always putting others before herself and serving everyone she can.I loved her Pappa’s wisdom and sayings. I wish everyone had a person like that in their lives. He took the time to spend it with Bailey and left her a keepsake to remember what was important. Things to love: dual POV Blondie workplace romance funny forced proximity (more than one) My Big Fat Greek Wedding vibes Pinterest board Pappa maple butter Maple Fest Some favorite quotes: “My cousins would cage fight each other for a chance to go somewhere with you.” “My world was empty until you. Hockey fills my schedule, but you fill everything else.” I highly recommend this book. Ms. Hall did a terrific job of writing the comedic situations in this story. I laughed all the way through. It had physical comedy, funny family names as well as banter. This is the first book that I have read of hers and I can’t wait to read more. I received a copy of the book through Booked with the Emilys. All opinions in this review are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.

Icing on the Cake

Description: 

Rule #1: Never fall for a hockey player. So why does my dating coach—who also happens to play hockey—make me want to break every rule I’ve set? Neesha
It starts with one conversation with a stranger…and suddenly, everything changes.
He won’t tell me what he does for a living, and maybe that should be a red flag. But after the hardest year of my life, my new neighbor feels like a lifeline—calm, capable, and always there when I need him.

When he offers to be my dating coach, I tell myself it’s harmless. That he just wants to help.
But behind that cinnamon roll smile, he’s hiding something—and I’m starting to fall for him anyway.
I told myself we were just friends.
So why am I dreaming about kissing the one man I swore I’d never fall for?

Lucian
Keeping my hockey identity secret was supposed to be temporary—just long enough to figure out my next move with the girl next door.
There’s just one she’s sworn off hockey players for good.
She asked me to help her fall for someone else and be her dating coach.
But I’m the one falling.
And when she finds out who I really am, I might lose the only woman who’s ever made me want something more than the game.
I stopped pretending it was a practice date a long time ago.
But falling for her?
That’s the icing on the cake.

***

The Icing on the Cake is part of the Love in Maple Falls sweet hockey romcom multi-author series. It's a slow-burn, secret-identity hockey romance featuring a cinnamon roll hero who falls hard for the sweet cupcake baker next door.

Review: 

Neesha  and Lucian become neighbors when he moves into Maple Falls after he joins the Ice Breakers hockey team. Neesha has had a difficult time accepting the idea that good things can happen after her mother dies and her controlling boyfriend breaks her heart. It takes Lucian’s patience and love and the town to come together to support her cupcake business to show her otherwise. Lucien is the super star in being there and showing Neesha unconditional love as she heals from her past experiences.

Things to love:

small town

baking therapy

townspeople

Mimi

dating practice

Maple Fest

nicknames

bachelor auction

friends 

the romance of Maple Falls

I highlighted quite a few things throughout the book, Here is one of my favorite quotes: “You can’t judge a cupcake by its frosting. Some look like perfect on the outside but taste like cardboard. Others might be a little rough around the edges, but they’re exactly what you need.”

I loved this story of Neesha finding out what love truly is like. It was so rewarding seeing her realize that she has a talent that she didn’t feel was special but discovering that her baking made people’s lives richer. It has Hallmark vibes, but better!

This is the last book in the series, and what a gratifying conclusion. In order to enjoy this story to its fullest, you will want to read the other books in order. 

I received a gifted copy of the book from Booked with the Emilys and the author with no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Girl Lost

Book Description: 

Luna Rosati found acceptance and a family during childhood, but when she became pregnant at seventeen, she gave the baby up for adoption and left without a word. Now a CIA counterintelligence officer, Luna wants to reconcile her fractured sense of self by finding the only blood family she has left--the teenage daughter she's never met. Her mentor, Stryker, promises to reveal her daughter's identity, but first Luna must meet him in the old neighborhood, the last place she wants to be. Then Stryker is captured.  
  
Special Agent Corbin King changed his surname to escape the shadow of his convicted father serving a life sentence. When he runs into Luna, the object of his failed teenage romance, the two must put their pasts aside and work together toward a greater mission. But when they encounter a kidnapping, missing bodies, and murder, the secrets Corbin and Luna are keeping from one another are only the beginning of the threat they face with more than their own lives at stake.

My Review: 

If you like dramatic, action-packed stories with dangerous criminals, this is the book for you! I couldn’t put the book down once I began. Ms. Angelo wove a story of complex characters, difficult situations, and faith that God cares for each and every person. I loved Stryker and his unswerving faith he had in teens when no one else did. The story of redemption and second chances was well done. I especially loved the way things worked out for Luna and Corbin.

Due to the serious issues that are addressed in this book, I would rate this PG and read it before giving it to a teen if you were thinking of doing so. This is the first book in the King Legacy series, and I am excitedly looking forward to reading the rest of the books.

I received a copy of the book from Revell and NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

A Sea View Christmas

Book Description: 

With a promise to her youngest sister, Sarah Summers declares that this year's Christmas at Sea View will exceed all expectations. But the arrival of Callum Henshall--dashing Scottish widower and returning guest--blows a flurry of doubts into her mind. Sarah had discouraged his attentions before and is once again torn between attraction and duty. Yet even while she's busy managing the family's guest house, alluring thoughts of a second chance at love weave their way into her practical heart.

Meanwhile, seventeen-year-old Georgiana eagerly anticipates the exciting Christmas of her dreams after last year's dull, disappointing holiday filled with endless chores. She enjoys all the promised parties, music, and dancing, but is taken by surprise when young love comes knocking. Does the festive romance of a Sea View Christmas hold the key to a happily-ever-after for both sisters?

Return to Sidmouth for this highly anticipated holiday companion novella to the Summers sisters' lives and loves on the charming Devonshire shore.

My Review: 

Sarah Summers has had to be the one sister who has kept things financially solvent for the rest of the family when their father died. She feels extremely responsible to take care of everyone. Even if that is at the expense of her own happiness. Callum Henshall is a man who looks for the good in circumstances and people. 

It was so rewarding to see Callum not give up on Sarah and the chance they have at love. I had been hoping that I would get to see them have their own HEA. Ms. Klassen did a terrific job in meeting all the expectations I had for Sarah and Callum. I loved seeing Sarah let go of the control that she thought she needed and to trust that God would care for her family.

Things to love:

continuing story

2nd chances

Effie 

family

mistletoe

snowball fight

all things Scottish

Dance lessons

Luckenbooth brooch

faith thread

I highly recommend this book and all of the others in the On Devonshire Shores series. In order to enjoy this story to its fullest, you will want to read the other books in order. 

I received I received a gifted copy of the book with no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Guest Post- Erica Vetsch

One of my favorite historical authors is Erica Vetsch. Presently, she has written 43 books, and has more yet to be published. That's wonderful news for readers like me who read Christian historical romance. 

Today I am very happy to share with you a post from her.

Thank you, Lisa, for allowing me to post on your blog and interact with your readers! Lisa was a member the recent launch team for my latest release, A Scheming in Parliament. This is the second book in the Of Cloaks & Daggers series, and it is set in Regency England.

One question I get quite often is, "How do you research for your books set in England when you live in America?"

That's a great question, and for a while, my research was done by reading books, watching documentaries, and talking with fellow Regency writers. I have a fairly extensive Regency research library on a variety of topics such as clothing, medicine, architecture, social structures, politics, transportation, food, and more.

But one of my favorite ways to do research is in person. To see the countryside, the buildings, the weather, and more for the places where I set my books. I was blessed to be able to travel to England and spend about three weeks touring the country and soaking in all the things.

I did not go without a plan, however, and that's what I would like to share with you today. My research plan for my trip to England. There were several steps that went into making the best use of my time there.

First, I knew I would spend most of my time in the Peak District in the middle of England, because that's where my longtime friend lived, and her house was our home base. So, I didn't research London activities. London has been reserved for my next trip.

Resolution Room

About the Book

Book: Resolution Room

Author: Courtney Lyman

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Release Date: January 15, 2016

Carol loved celebrating holidays, so when she had the opportunity she opened a bed-and-breakfast where each room focused on a different one. Her early guests included Willa Newman and her roommates who came to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Carol’s handyman, Owen Coburn, was instantly attracted to Willa, but soon found himself in the “friend zone”. Several years later, as Willa sees her friends find love, she makes a New Year’s resolution that next year she won’t be alone. Seeing his opportunity, Owen invents a friend for Willa to meet, hoping that eventually she would see that the friend was really him. Will his lie tear them apart or will Willa see past his disguise and recognize the man who loves her?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review: 

Willa saw all of her college friends marry over the years and wondered if she would ever find a man who would love her too. Owen was extremely patient in helping Willa see that she was a woman who was worth the wait as she had to trust that God was working things out for her (and Owen’s) good. This story was a good reminder that God cares for all of us. 

I received a copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. 

About the Author

Courtney Lyman lives in Tucson, Arizona with her husband, their three children, and two cats. She is the author of the KW Consulting series, the Holliday Hotel series, as well as several Christmas novellas. She stays busy with her family’s activities, her ministries at church, and in whatever time is left, knitting, singing, and playing games.

 

 

 

 

More from Courtney

Hello, Readers! I’ve dreamed of many businesses that I thought would be fun to own – things like a food truck, a book store, and a bed-and-breakfast were considered. I loved the idea of decorating and planning the theme of a b-and-b, but since I’m not a morning person, the whole preparing breakfast part seemed less exciting. Thankfully, as an author, I can put my imagination to work and experience being an inn owner in my books.

As someone who loves to decorate for the different seasons and holidays throughout the year, I wondered what it would be like to have a b-and-b where each room had a different holiday theme. Enter Carol Holliday and the Holliday Hotel. Carol was born on Christmas and dearly loves all holidays. When her husband unexpectedly dies, she decides to pursue her dream and open the Holliday Hotel which would not only have holiday themed rooms, but would offer celebrations throughout the year for her hometown to enjoy.

In Resolution Room, I wanted to explore the tendency we have to push our timelines and agendas ahead of God’s timing. By making a resolution to not be single by the following New Year’s Eve, Willa makes her desires and timing the focus of the year. How often do I do the same thing? I say I want God’s will, but I push ahead with what I want even when He is saying ‘no’ or ‘wait’.

I hope you fall in love with Holliday Hotel as much as I did and that you come back to visit for the other holidays! See how God’s love is very different from worldly love in Sweetheart Suite. Celebrate the power of the resurrection in Resurrection Rest. Explore the peace of reconciliation in Mama’s Morning Room. Embrace God’s fatherly love for us in Daddy’s Den. Freedom in Christ and forgiveness are the themes of Independence Hall while God’s power over darkness takes the stage in Harvest Hollow. Gratitude and its relationship to love is the focus of Pilgrim Passage. Finally, celebrate Christmas with a second chance romance in Christmas Chamber.

Thank you so much for visiting me! God bless and happy reading!

Courtney Lyman

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 28

Pause for Tales, August 29

She Lives To Read, August 30

Simple Harvest Reads, August 31 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, August 31

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 1

Artistic Nobody, September 2 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 3

Guild Master, September 4 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, September 5

Fiction Book Lover, September 6 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 7

Book Looks by Lisa, September 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 9 (Author Interview)

Blossoms and Blessings, September 10 (Author Interview)

For Him and my Family, September 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Courtney 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/00adcf54287