Miss Harriet Peabody dreams of the day she can open up a shop selling refashioned gowns to independent working women like herself. Unfortunately, when an errand for her millinery shop job goes sadly awry due to a difficult customer, she finds herself out of an income.

Mr. Oliver Addleshaw is on the verge of his biggest business deal yet when he learns his potential partner prefers to deal with men who are settled down and wed. When Oliver witnesses his ex not-quite-fiance cause the hapless Harriet to lose her job, he tries to make it up to her by enlisting her help in making a good impression on his business partner.

Harriet quickly finds her love of fashion can't make her fashionable. She'll never truly fit into Oliver's world, but just as she's ready to call off the fake relationship, fancy dinners, and elegant balls, a threat from her past forces both Oliver and Harriet to discover that love can come in the most surprising packages.

Guys, I’ll be honest, this is probably the best book I’ve read this year. I absolutely LOVE Jen Turano’s writing. She has the delightful habit of dropping her well-developed characters into deliciously ridiculous situations and we readers get to watch them figure out how to deal with it in their own quirky, unique ways. What fun!

Ms. Turano has a way of making historical fiction fun, exciting, and hilarious. I lost count of all the times I burst into giggles while reading. It’s just that good, y’all.

The characters are wonderful. Both the hero, Oliver, and the heroine' Harriet, were deep, unique, and flawed while being extremely likable. Their budding romance was completely swoon-worthy. I also fell in love with a few of the other characters and can’t wait to see them star in their own stories. (Lucetta and Millie, I’m talking about you!)

If you like inspirational historical fiction with comedy and romance (and even if you don’t), I recommend picking up this book. You won’t regret it.

I can’t wait to see what Ms. Turano has up her sleeve next. 5 stars for a fantastic read!


(Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest and unbiased review, which I have given.)

As of this posting, you can purchase a copy on Amazon for $1.99! (Always double-check the price before you buy, though.)

“Fear is the most fertile ground for faith.”
 
 “You will be called Anippe, daughter of the Nile. Do you like it?” Without waiting for a reply, she pulls me into her squishy, round tummy for a hug. 
I’m trying not to cry. Pharaoh’s daughters don’t cry.
When we make our way down the tiled hall, I try to stop at ummi Kiya’s chamber. I know her spirit has flown yet I long for one more moment. Amenia pushes me past so I keep walking and don’t look back. 

Like the waters of the Nile, I will flow.
 
Anippe has grown up in the shadows of Egypt’s good god Pharaoh, aware that Anubis, god of the afterlife, may take her or her siblings at any moment. She watched him snatch her mother and infant brother during childbirth, a moment which awakens in her a terrible dread of ever bearing a child. Now she is to be become the bride of Sebak, a kind but quick-tempered Captain of Pharaoh Tut’s army. In order to provide Sebak the heir he deserves and yet protect herself from the underworld gods, Anippe must launch a series of deceptions, even involving the Hebrew midwives—women ordered by Tut to drown the sons of their own people in the Nile. 

     When she finds a baby floating in a basket on the great river, Anippe believes Egypt’s gods have answered her pleas, entrenching her more deeply in deception and placing her and her son Mehy, whom handmaiden Miriam calls Moses, in mortal danger.

  As bloodshed and savage politics shift the balance of power in Egypt, the gods reveal their fickle natures and Anippe wonders if her son, a boy of Hebrew blood, could one day become king. Or does the god of her Hebrew servants, the one they call El Shaddai, have a different plan—for them all?

This was an excellent story and I really enjoyed it. Mesu Andrews brings the Bible to life like few authors can, and her latest book is no exception.

"The Pharaoh's Daughter" tells the story of many characters; the main one being Anippe, King Tut's sister and the circumstances of baby Moses' rescue and adoption. While I grew frustrated with some of Anippe's choices and deceptions, the way she has grown by the end of the book redeems her character beautifully. 

The historical details of this book were fascinating to me, as well as the social contrasts between Egyptians and Hebrews. I love learning while reading a good story.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys quality biblical fiction what will strengthen your faith. 5 stars!

(I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via BloggingForBooks.com in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.)

To enter to win this Advanced Reader's Copy of "The Pharaoh's Daughter", just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. (If the link in the email doesn't work, just click over to www.AnnaWeaverBooks.com/giveaways and enter there.) This giveaway will end June 9th. Thanks for participating and God bless!

 A Love Like Ours (Bethany House, May 2015)

Former Marine Jake Porter has far deeper scars than the one that marks his face. He struggles with symptoms of PTSD, lives a solitary life, and avoids relationships.

When Lyndie James, Jake's childhood best friend, lands back in Holley, Texas, Jake cautiously hires her to exercise his Thoroughbreds. Lyndie is tender-hearted, fiercely determined, and afraid of nothing, just like she was as a child. Jake pairs her with Silver Leaf, a horse full of promise but lacking in results, hoping she can solve the mystery of the stallion's reluctance to run.

Though Jake and Lyndie have grown into very different adults, the bond that existed during their childhood still ties them together. Against Jake's will, Lyndie's sparkling, optimistic personality begins to tear down the walls he's built around his heart. A glimmer of the hope he'd thought he'd lost returns, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1R9Tv8p

I absolutely LOVED this story! In my opinion, this is Becky's best book yet. 

This author has a knack for creating characters that are so darn likable that they leap off the page and into your heart. Lyndie is such a great character. I'm kinda disappointed that I can't swing by her apartment and see her art or have one of her coffee creations. For me, she stole the whole book. 

Lyndie and Jake's friendship-turning-to-romance was so sweet and fun to read. I kept waiting for the point that I would lose interest in the story and have to push myself to finish it, but I never found it. 

I'm sure Jake's character was a hard one to write, but Becky dealt with his PTSD and brokenness with skillful technique. If you aren't on fire for this handsome, wounded warrior by the end of the book... Your wood's wet! ;)

Another aspect of this book that I loved was Amber and Will's romance. They are perfect for each other and their side-story is the perfect balance to some of the darker emotional moments of the book. 

All in all, this is an excellent read that I highly recommend to anyone who loves a good love story. 5 stars! 

(I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group and Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.)

Becky Wade is a native of California who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and moved to Dallas. She published historical romances for the general market, took time off to raise her children, then felt God nudging her to pursue contemporary Christian fiction. Becky's work has been a finalist for both a RITA and an INSPY Award.

Find Becky online: website, Facebook, Twitter

I accidentally received two copies of this book (1 from Litfuse Publicity Group/Netgalley and 1 from Bethany House Publishers), so you know what that means... one lucky winner gets the extra copy! To enter, fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. Giveaway ends June 2nd.

Landing page:
http://litfusegroup.com/author/bwade
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SHE THOUGHT SHE WAS SAFE 

Mackenzie Winters spent years building a life in Witness Protection, but when someone shoots at her, she fears her cover has been blown. Could the brother of the drug lord she put away be here for revenge? Mackenzie must rely on her handler's twin, world-weary Delta Force soldier Aaron Hanning, to protect her. Aaron doesn't want to be anyone's hero, but he can't let this brave woman die. Now, with danger stalking them, they'll have to make a daring choice that means life or death—for them both.

This was a suspenseful, intriguing read that fit well within the Love Inspired Suspense line. There was a point in the middle where I got a little bogged down in the details, but I'm glad I kept going, because I ended up really enjoying this story.

I liked the mistaken identity/twin thing going on for the first few chapters. It definitely made things interesting. :)

The characters were well-developed and the plot was paced correctly for a romantic suspense novel. There were some good twists and turns, too. Well done, Ms. Phillips!

4 stars for a thrilling, chilling read!

 

To enter, just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. (If the link in the email doesn't work, just click over to www.AnnaWeaverBooks.com and enter there.) This giveaway will end April 28th. Thanks for entering and God bless!

Inspirational Historical Romantic Suspense written from First Person POV

The Everstone Chronicles Series Book 3

For her own protection following the murder of her brother Will, hotel heiress Estella Everstone assumes the alias of Elle Stoneburner and takes a job as companion to an elderly widow. Never did she imagine that her position would lead her back to her beloved Everston, a picturesque resort property tucked away in the rugged mountains of Maine. Living below her station in a guise of anonymity has its struggles, but her spirits are buoyed by a newfound friendship with the hotel manager, Dexter Blakeley. And his distaste for the spoiled socialites who frequent his hotel causes her to take a close look at her own priorities and past lifestyle. When Estella finds herself in need of help, Dexter comes to the rescue with an offer of employment she can't refuse. As the two interact and open up to each other, Estella feels a growing attraction to Dexter; and increasing discomfort over concealing her identity. Yet, in spite of the false pretense she's putting forth, she's never felt freer to be herself than in his presence. But will he still love her when he learns the truth about who she is?

I really enjoyed the third installment of The Everstone Chronicles. This story is told in the voice of Estella Everstone, a character we’ve met in the previous two books. I wasn't sure how I’d be able to relate to her, but my worries were in vain; the author brought her to life beautifully. I connected strongly with her and thought her motivations were believable. I really enjoyed watching her grow from a childish socialite to a strong and mature woman.

Dexter Blakeley is an excellent hero; starting out gruff but winning over Estella (and the reader) with his charm, character, and humility as the story goes on. His devotion to his family was especially likeable.

The romance between the two was sweet and completely captivating. I loved the sweet, pure quality of it. As usual, the author brings in a few of the previous characters and it was exciting to see them growing and becoming better people.

I truly enjoyed this entire series, so while this is a stand-alone story, I recommend reading the other two books as well. 5 stars for a lovely historical novel!


(I received an e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

Dawn has generously offered the winner of this giveaway their choice of an e-book copy of The Hesitant Heiress, The Bound Heart, or The Captive Imposter. Just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below to get started! Giveaway ends 4/21/15. Thanks for visiting and God bless!

The first book in a new YA historical fiction series from bestselling author Jody Hedlund.

Due to her parents' promise at her birth, Lady Rosemarie has been prepared to become a nun on the day she turns eighteen. Then, a month before her birthday, a friend of her father's enters the kingdom and proclaims her parents' will left a second choice-if Rosemarie can marry before the eve of her eighteenth year, she will be exempt from the ancient vow.

Before long, Rosemarie is presented with the three most handsome and brave knights in the land. But when the competition for her heart seemingly results in a knight playing foul, she begins to wonder if the cloister is the best place after all. If only one of the knights-the one who appears the most guilty-had not already captured her heart.

First of all, the cover is gorgeous! And even better, the story behind it is just as great!

"An Uncertain Choice" is a great read. While it's YA in tone and voice, I know a lot of people regardless of age will be able to appreciate the story and its themes.

It is set in medieval times and you feel like you are there thanks to the descriptions and details.

I loved the blossoming romance between the hero and heroine. It was also a nice change not knowing who the hero was going to be, between the 3 knights. I hope the author tells the other 2 knights' stories. :)

There was enough intrigue and mystery to keep the pace moving, leading up to an explosive finale at the end of the book.

4 stars for a lovely and inspiring read! 


(I received a copy of this book via the BookLookBloggers program in exchange for an honest, unbiased review, which I have given. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)

To enter, just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. (If the link in the email doesn't work, just click over to www.AnnaWeaverBooks.com and enter there.) This giveaway will end April 14th. Thanks for entering and God bless!

To honor her dying father’s wish, Chicago stockbroker Shelby Harmon promises to hand deliver an envelope addressed to “Robert Nichols, Personal & Confidential.” Her quest to find Robert leads her to a most unlikely place—the Castlehill Gardens outside Scotland’s Edinburgh Castle. Who is this fiercely private man and what is his connection to Harmony Lane, her family’s horse farm in Lexington, Kentucky? 

Harrison Reed cautions Shelby against dredging up hurtful memories for his close friend, Robert. As they explore the city together, Shelby and Harrison find themselves increasingly drawn to one another. When the contents of the mysterious envelope are revealed, the answer gives her hope for the future of Harmony Lane. 

Is the time spent in Edinburgh with Harrison destined to be nothing more than a beautiful memory? Did Shelby lose her heart in Edinburgh...or find her way home again?

It took me a few chapters to really connect with the characters in this novella, but once I did, it became a charming and endearing story.

I really enjoyed the taste of local flavor and culture of Edinburgh that was brought to life in the story.

There were some good, deep moments in the novella also, ranging from family, God, finding your place in the world, etc.

4 stars for a cute, enjoyable read.

The Kidnapped Bride 

Drew Wallin's youngest brother is determined to see him married—so he kidnaps Drew a prospective bride. Not only is Catherine Stanway beautiful, but she's a nurse who can help their ailing mother. Drew doesn't have time for distractions—he's too busy watching over his fatherless siblings. Yet he's drawn to this woman who carries loss and pain equal to his own. 

Catherine has traveled West to use her nursing skills to save lives, not to find a husband. She knows if she gives in to Drew's matchmaking family, she'll be risking her already bruised heart. But maybe it's time she takes the ultimate risk to win the groom she didn't know she wanted! 

Frontier Bachelors: Bold, rugged—and bound to be grooms

Oh my goodness, what a fun, endearing, completely enthralling book! I wish I'd picked it up sooner!

Seriously, this story was so much fun! The premise was alluring, but when the heroine was kidnapped by the hero's younger brother, I was hooked.

The hero's large family definitely steals the show. Each one was quirky, distinctive, and completely believable. Both the hero and heroine were excellently portrayed as well.

This is the best Love Inspired Historical that I've read and I'm excited to see more of this author's work. Wish I could give it more than 5 stars!  


(I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.)

TO CATCH A KILLER 

Trusting the wrong person had gotten his father killed. CIA agent Ed Carter isn't about to repeat the mistake. Pulling a gun on nurse Bailey Williams may not have been the smartest idea, but the beautiful caretaker is Ed's only suspect in the murder. Problem is, her vulnerable brown eyes claim innocence and set off his protective instincts. The spark between them is undeniable, but Bailey could never trust her life—or her heart—to a man who thinks her guilty. But when the real killer returns and threatens not just her but her family, Bailey must place her faith in the only man who can keep them from being silenced forever…

This was a strong, intense suspense story that I really enjoyed. It didn't have the lighthearted humor of Christy's Gabby St. Claire series, but it was still a good read.

The tension was strong throughout this book because both of the main characters have secrets that they can't tell the other, so it's basically a tug-of-war over who's going to be honest first. Throw in super spies, a creepy house, and a murder and you're in for a wild ride!

I loved the setting and fell in love with the island of Smuggler's Cove.

4 stars for a high-intensity, thrill ride.

(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.)

To enter, just fill out the Giveaway Tools form below. (If the link in the email doesn't work, just click over to www.AnnaWeaverBooks.com and enter there.) This giveaway will end March 31st. Thanks for entering and God bless!

Through nine historical romance adventures, readers will journey along with individuals who are ready to stake a claim and plant their dreams on a piece of the great American plains. While fighting land disputes, helping neighbors, and tackling the challenges of nature the homesteaders are placed in the path of other dreamers with whom romance sparks. And God has His hand in orchestrating each unique meeting.

I absolutely loved this novella collection! Each story was unique and had great characters, conflicts, and themes. When I read novella collections, sometimes I find myself skimming the stories for the good parts, but each one grabbed hold of my attention from beginning to end. I truly enjoyed each author's take on life for the early settlers.


5 stars!

(I received an e-copy of this book from Barbour Publishing, Inc and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.)