About the Book:
The Darkwater Inn stands tall and proud in the French Quarter, the hub of New Orleans. Bourbon Street is bustling, and General Manager Adelaide Fountaine has her hands full with a hotel at capacity. She, along with everyone else, is shocked when a body is found: a hotel guest stabbed with a kitchen knife.

Detective Beau Savoie, Adelaide’s childhood friend, is on the case. As Beau digs into the victim’s past, he unearths a shocking connection between Adelaide and the murdered guest. Beau is hurt that his friend—the woman he’s quietly loved for years—kept the truth from him. To make matters worse, the stress of the investigation has sent Adelaide right into the comforting arms of her coworker Dimitri. But Beau can’t press Adelaide too hard . . . he’s keeping secrets of his own.

Can Adelaide and Beau afford to hide from the truth with a killer on the loose?

My Thoughts:
Caroll offers readers a double-dose of excitement- a suspense-filled murder mystery and an intriguing love triangle. The murder mystery was thick with questions about who the killer was, and I have to say I was caught completely off guard when the person responsible confessed! As far as the romance element, Adelaide finds herself as one lucky girl- she has not one but two handsome, charming heroes vying for her heart! I will be interested to see in future novels in this series which one she will choose! Honestly, I'm not sure which one I'm rooting for because I like them both! Decisions, decisions! Lastly, I was delighted to learn more about New Orleans! Although I have never visited the city (shame on me!), the authentic details the author infused throughout the story made me feel that I was right smack dab in the middle of The Big Easy!  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.

The best-selling author of dozens of novels, Robin Caroll writes Southern stories of mystery and suspense with a hint of romance. Her books have been widely recognized, including honors from the Carol Awards, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, and RT Reviewers' Choice Awards. To find out more about Robin, visit www.robincaroll.com. 

About the Book:
Tressa Harlowe's father did not trust banks, but neither did he trust his greedy extended family. He kept his vast fortune hidden somewhere on his estate in the south of England and died suddenly, without telling anyone where he had concealed it. Tressa and her ailing mother are left with a mansion and an immense vineyard and no money to run it. It doesn't take long for a bevy of opportunists to flock to the estate under the guise of offering condolences. Tressa knows what they're really up to. She'll have to work with the rough and rusticated vineyard manager to keep the laborers content without pay and discover the key to finding her father's fortune--before someone else finds it first. 

Award-winning author Joanna Davidson Politano welcomes readers to Trevelyan Castle, home of the poorest heiress in Victorian England, for a treasure hunt they'll not soon forget.

My Thoughts:
Clever plot twists and an unexpected ending pepper Davidson Politano’s sophomore offering making for a page turner you can’t put down! Surrounded by a mother who wants to maintain her elite lifestyle, a cousin who suddenly wants to renew their childhood kinship, and a suitor who wants to keep his interest hush-hush, Tressa Harlowe finds herself questioning who she can trust as she desperately searches for her father’s lost fortune. She finds both a nemesis and a friend in Donegan Vance, the last employee her father hired before his untimely death. I loved the dynamics between these two and especially found Donegan’s blatant honesty refreshing. Also special was Donegan’s quiet love and protection of Tressa even when she blanched at a relationship with him. I found myself trying to guess where the treasure was hidden along with all of the characters. While the end location was not that surprising, the back-story behind how- and why- the treasure landed where it did was a great end to this suspense knockout!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.

Joanna Davidson Politano freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for Lady Jayne Disappears was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets.

About the Book:
Rayne Shelby has spent her entire life trying to earn the approval of her high-powered family, with the hope of one day managing her late grandfather’s prestigious Idaho lodge. But when she makes a mistake that puts her future in jeopardy, she faces an impossible choice: defy her family or deny her dream. The only way to fix the mess she’s created is to enlist the help of her neighbor, Levi, the apprentice of her family’s greatest enemy. And if Rayne gets caught crossing the divided property lines, the consequences will be irreparable.
Levi Harding has never forgotten the August night he shared with Rayne when they were teens—or the way she later rejected him. Despite his warring instincts, he can’t ignore her plea for help or the spark that’s ignited between them. But now, as wildfires bear down on their town and family secrets are revealed, their newfound alliance might just go up in smoke.

My Thoughts:
At the time I finally picked up this book to read, it was the book that had been on my TBR pile the longest- 17 months. After reading the first chapter I kept asking myself, "now WHY exactly did it take me so long to read this book??". I couldn't put it down! Rayne and Levi's romance could easily be compared to a modern day version of Romeo & Juliet. From the start the conflict between her family and his employer was established setting the stage for their forbidden romance. While their chemistry is electrifying, the tension is also there just underneath the surface of their interactions hinting at a questionable future. When the truth of the age-old conflict was finally revealed, I was not only surprised by the cause of the rift but cheering for the way Deese brought the story to its end. Fantastic read that I will enjoy again and again!

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated by the author or publisher in any way.

Nicole Deese is a full time lover of humorous, heartfelt, and hope-filled fiction. When she's not writing a sweet romance, she can usually be found reading near a window and drinking a mango La Croix. She lives in small-town, Idaho with her happily-ever-after hubby, two rambunctious and smarty-pants sons, and a princess daughter with the heart of a warrior.

About the Book:
​A tornado has destroyed a small Minnesota community and among the missing are not only a group of students but PEAK Rescue team leader Chet King. Ty Remington will stop at nothing to rescue his mentor, not even when the girl he loved--and lost--walks back into his life. But Brette needs his help more than he knows, despite her stubborn determination to push him away. And when he gets a second chance, loving her just might cost him more than he can imagine.

A blogger for Vortex Storm Chasers, Brette Arnold didn't expect her adventures to land her in the same place as Ty, the guy who she walked--no, ran--from over a year ago. She had her reasons--good ones. The kind that tell her that falling for him again would only lead to heartache. But Ty isn't the kind of man to give up--not on the missing students, or on her.

Life and love hang in the balance in Susan May Warren's breathless story of holding on to hope during a deadly summer of storms.

My Thoughts:
Ty Remington is perhaps the sweetest, most sincere hero I've met thus. First, his steadfast love for Brette comes through in so many ways. The way he gently coaxes her to face her fears, his enduring patience as he waits for her to share her heart, and the strength he displays in vowing to stand with her through whatever trials she may face are just a few examples. His love for her is a beautiful picture of true devotion and commitment. The plot surrounding the tornadoes also serves as a platform to highlight his deep compassion for others and the deep roots of his faith. Other secondary plots and character cameos added more juice to the story as the reader is updated on the status of both Ian and Sierra's and Sam and Willow's relationships, with a significant secondary plot that included a changing dynamic between Ben and Kacey. Glimpses of Pete and Jess's "romance in question" surface throughout the story, too, with a bite-your-nails cliffhanger ending the novel. This book was jam packed with danger and excitement (in true Warren fashion) from page one all the way to the end! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions.

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling author of over fifty novels with more than 1 million books sold, including Wild Montana Skies, Rescue Me, and A Matter of Trust. Winner of a RITA Award and multiple Christy and Carol Awards, as well as the HOLT and numerous Readers' Choice Awards, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic suspense, thrillers, romantic comedy, and novellas. She can be found online at www.susanmaywarren.com, on Facebook at Susan May Warren Fiction, and on Twitter @susanmaywarren.

About the Book:
A crumbling lighthouse is not part of the inheritance Army doctor Ben Garrison expects to claim when he journeys to Hope Harbor. Fresh out of the service, he wants only to unload the tower of bricks, decompress from years of treating battlefield trauma, and prepare to launch his civilian career.

Hope Harbor Herald editor Marci Weber has other ideas. She may not be a Hope Harbor native, but the small Oregon seaside town has become home--and she's determined to save the Pelican Point landmark.

Sparks fly as the two go head to head over the fate of the lighthouse. But when they start to cooperate, a different kind of fire ignites. And as they work together, might Hope Harbor heal the hearts of these two romance-wary souls?

My Thoughts:
Hannon offers a few surprises in this latest edition of the Hope Harbor series. The central plot, as anticipated, focuses on the romantic tension brewing between calm and even-keeled Ben with feisty and vivacious, Marci. Once they lay down their battle gear, these two find that their differences in personality actually compliment one another as their mutual attraction grows. A significant difference in this plot from others in the series is the introduction of a dark-natured nemesis causing friction between the two main characters. Consequently, the trials in the plot take on a sinister, almost ominous tone. A direct result of this element is a surprising change in Charley's character, too. The happy-go-lucky taco maker/town sage is affected by the uncertain air Marci's rival brings to town causing him to display a cautious, wary manner in several scenes. Lastly, the secondary plot between Rachel and Greg was a nice addition bringing a sense of hope, renewal, and rekindled love to the story. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions.

Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of more than fifty novels, including One Perfect Spring, Hope Harbor, Sea Rose Lane, and Sandpiper Cove, as well as Dangerous Illusions and the Private Justice and Men of Valor suspense series. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. Her many other awards include a National Readers' Choice Award, a Daphne du Maurier Award, a Retailers' Choice Award, two Booksellers' Best Awards, two Carol Awards, and two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine, which also honored her with a Career Achievement award for her entire body of work. In addition, she is a two-time Christy Award finalist. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.

About the Book:
First Impressions: A Contemporary Retelling of Pride and Prejudice

Lawyer Eddi Boswick tries out for a production of Pride and Prejudice in her small Texas town. When she's cast as the lead, Elizabeth Bennet, her romantic co-star is none other than the town's most eligible--and arrogant--bachelor.

My Thoughts:
First of all, let me just say that I am an avid Jane Austen fan and that Pride and Prejudice is my favorite Austen book. Where other spin-offs have just not made the grade, I absolutely loved this retelling! In my opinion, the author's modern characterizations of the original characters is dead on what you would expect in today's society. White Smith seamlessly molded this literary classic to fit today's culture along with its many issues while staying true to the original intent of Austen's plot. In addition, her unique twist of having the modern story revolve around the characters preparing to put on the play Pride and Prejudice for their small town dinner theater while the events in their own lives mirrored that of the play's acts was simply brilliant! Lastly, I loved when Eddi and Dave would banter with each other using actual lines from the play for Elizabeth and Darcy! I end my review borrowing a quote from the 2005 movie version of Pride and Prejudice by joyously proclaiming that First Impressions has left me "completely and perfectly and incandescently happy"!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions.

Debra White Smith is a seasoned author, speaker, and media personality who has fifty-four books to her credit, both fiction and nonfiction, with more than one million copies in print. Her work has appeared on various bestseller lists, and she has repeatedly been voted a reader favorite. She holds a BA and MA in English and lives in Texas. Visit her at www.debrawhitesmith.com for more information.

My Thoughts:
I have not read much Amish fiction, so I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the storyline, characters, and emotional depth of the plot. Judith and Guy were so adorable and sweet in their interactions and care for one another. Both characters grew by the end of the story, especially Guy who received unconditional love and wisdom from the Masts. My heart broke for him in learning about his childhood, his biological father’s neglect, and his longing even as an adult to have a connection and “be a family” with his father. Lastly, I don’t know much about Amish culture, so I thoroughly enjoyed this glimpse into Amish traditions and practices. This sweet, gentle romance receives four stars!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions.

About the Book:
Romulus White has tried for years to hire illustrator Stella West for his renowned scientific magazine. She is the missing piece he needs to propel his magazine to the forefront of the industry.

But Stella abruptly quit the art world and moved to Boston with a single purpose: to solve the mysterious death of her beloved sister. Romulus, a man with connections to high society and every important power circle in the city, could be her most valuable ally.

Sparks fly the instant Stella and Romulus join forces, and Romulus soon realizes the strong-willed and charismatic Stella could disrupt his hard-won independence. Can they continue to help each other when their efforts draw the wrong kind of attention from the powers-that-be and put all they've worked for at risk?

My Thoughts:
Stella and Romulus were such a fun couple! Despite their constant bantering, there could not be two characters made for each other better than these two! I have to admit, I did not like Romulus in the beginning of the book. He was pompous, vain, and quite a jerk. However, Camden persuaded me by the end of the book that he was quite a guy and very lovable at that! I loved how Stella matched his wits with her own brand of sarcasm and confidence which just caused the sparks to fly even more. These two are probably the most colorful characters I've met yet in a story that was entertaining, emotional and tender all wrapped up in one.

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.​

Elizabeth Camden is a research librarian at a small college in central Florida. Her novels have won the coveted RITA and Christy Awards. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband near Orlando, Florida. She regularly posts about the joys of the book world at http://elizabethcamden.com/blog.

About the Book:
Professional photographer Lily Caswell has one goal in mind—opening her own photography studio in her charming New England town. Too many months of working odd jobs has taken its toll, and Lily is determined to earn the coveted studio space in the heart of the downtown district. With the help of her friends and support of her church community, Lily sets out to make her dreams of Picture Perfect come true. 

Micah Wyland is used to taking punches—just not in the usual way. He returns to his hometown with the intention of opening his own martial arts studio, but putting his past behind him proves harder than anticipated when Lily Caswell comes back into his life. 

When they get thrown together for swing dance lessons, romance heats up on—and off—the dance floor. As Lily gets to know Micah, she believes he's changed. But forgetting the past isn't easy, especially when she discovers they've both set their sights on the same piece of real estate. And a dark secret from Micah's past is quickly catching up. 

My Thoughts:
Lily and Micah's first meeting is not only comical, but sets the tone for the first weeks of their relationship- strenuous, yet filled with undeniable attraction. Early on Micah is so endearing to me and draws my sympathy because he just can't say the right thing- either his sarcastic wit comes through in the most inopportune times or the words he chooses rub Lily the wrong way. Their bantering becomes entertaining, but when they finally stop bickering they find the attraction they have for each other has bloomed into a sweet romance. And Micah's kisses!!! Five star swoon-worthy! But all is not perfect in "Love Land" and trials test their relationship's endurance. In the end, both Micah and Lily show growth and maturity as he comes to grips with his past mistakes and learns to forgive himself, and she faces her insecurities head on. Enjoyable romance with fun characters! I hope there will be a sequel continuing the stories of some of the other characters!

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Emily graduated from Gordon College in Massachusetts with degrees in English as well as Biblical Studies. She now works as an editor for a government consulting group, but she earned her living as a wedding photographer, high school English teacher, newspaper copy editor, piano teacher, and women’s self-defense instructor. To learn more about her writing, visit http://www.emilycreynolds.com/.

About the Book:
Since childhood, Julie Matthews has felt closest to God when singing. Mere days away from realizing her lifelong dream of singing professionally, she awakens in a hospital room unable to speak. Suddenly her dreams and God seem distant. 



Rick Matthews supports his ambitious wife, but has no solution for the constant tension between them. During Julie's recovery, Rick becomes Julie's caregiver and their marriage undergoes a wonderful change--they rediscover each other.
 
But as Julie's voice grows stronger, unseen wounds surface and years of unhealthy habits begin again to pull them apart. Faced with losing their newly rekindled love, Julie and Rick are forced to evaluate the state of their marriage and how their dysfunction has affected their marriage and their children. 



Sticks and stones may break bones, but words can crush the spirit.

My Thoughts:
​I have to admit, this book was difficult for me to read but I'm glad that I did. I honestly did not like Julie's character and felt the full force of Proverbs 25:24's admonition that "it's better to live alone in the corner of an attic than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home" finding that my sympathies went to Rick. However, as the story progressed after Julie regained her voice and tensions began to arise again, Arnold did a marvelous job at having both Julie and Rick discover their own faults and contributions to the demise of their marriage. The author also did a fantastic job at bringing to surface within the reader the unease that any woman would feel at the presence of Angelina within the conflict. Julie and Rick's story was a subtle (or maybe not so subtle) reminder that bad habits and selfish tendencies can creep into a marriage acting as a caustic agent if not promptly dealt with. Another reminder jumping from the pages is that if you want a relationship to change, you have to choose to make the changes necessary to see healing- it's not going to just happen on its on. Tough love and solid reminders of what makes a strong marriage.

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Shellie Arnold is a writer and speaker on marriage and family. She truly believes despite baggage, neglect, or mistakes if a husband and wife listen to God, they can live happily even after. Her passion is sharing how God has helped her do exactly that. She maintains a blog at shelliearnold.com and is the founder of YOUR MARRIAGE resources. Shellie is a mother of three and has home schooled for over twenty years. She lives in Ohio with her husband of thirty years.

About the Book:
When Trace Riley finds the smoldering ruins of a small wagon train, he recognizes the hand behind the attack as the same group who left him as sole survivor years ago. Living off the wilderness since then, he'd finally carved out a home and started a herd--while serving as a self-appointed guardian of the trail, driving off dangerous men. He'd hoped those days were over, but the latest attack shows he was wrong.

Deborah Harkness saved her younger sister and two toddlers during the attack, and now finds herself at the mercy of her rescuer. Trace offers the only shelter for miles around, and agrees to take them in until she can safely continue. His simple bachelor existence never anticipated kids and women in the picture and their arrival is unsettling--yet enticing. 

Working to survive the winter and finally bring justice to the trail, Trace and Deborah find themselves drawn together--yet every day approaches the moment she'll leave forever. 

My Thoughts:
I truly admire the steadfast determination and strength of the people who settled the Old West. This story highlighted some of the many dangers travelers faced while also showcasing the bravery and courage many displayed. This bravery was evident in Trace's commitment to keep the trail and Deb and her family safe. However, there were unresolved issues left in the plot that bothered me. For example, even though Trace saw himself as saving lives on the trail, it did not seem that he ever reconciled his hatred toward the outlaws' attack on his own wagon train. Also, I felt the story was rushed and unfinished at the end. The reader tagged along throughout the hunt for the outlaws, and even though one can guess the end result for two of the outlaws, the ringleader's fate is completely dismissed and dropped! In addition, two new characters were haphazardly introduced into the story at the end but the introduction was basically all that occurred with these two new additions to the story even though the children's fates would be profoundly affected by their presence. It seems like the story should have continued but was just cut off. Lastly, even though Trace and Deb's romance was sweet enough, it was disappointing. It seemed very rushed and immature. I honestly felt like their characters seemed more like two people with high school crushes than two people thinking about life-long commitments. The entire story had more of a "young adult" feel to it and did not quite meet my expectations.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.

Mary Connealy writes "romantic comedies with cowboys" and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has more than half a million books in print. She is the author of the popular series Wild at Heart, Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, Lassoed in Texas, Sophie's Daughters, and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Learn more at www.maryconnealy.com.

Interview with the Author: Carla Laureano

​1. What inspired you to write The Saturday Night Supper Club?

I knew from the start that I wanted to write a book about three friends who started a Supper Club in my hometown of Denver, and the title came almost immediately. Some of the other elements, like the double-edged nature of social media and the challenges of women in business, came from the media I was consuming at the time. I'd been reading acclaimed chef Dominique Crenn's interviews about gender bias in the food industry, and I'd followed both Gamergate and the 2015 Hugo Awards controversies from a distance. Everyone was taking very strong stances on one side or the other, but what about those who fell somewhere in the middle? Women who want to be acknowledged for their talents and not for their gender, but don't want to be outspoken feminist crusaders? Artists who want to be free to create their work without it having to make a cultural statement? There are a lot of serious issues that play into the book's plot, but I was conscious of not making it into an "issue book". At its heart, I wanted The Saturday Night Supper Club to be a realistic look at what it means to be a modern Christian woman pursuing both love and career, with all the joy and heartache that entails.

2. How do you expect the novel to resonate with your audience? What are you most excited for your readers to experience through reading this story?
 
Anyone who likes food is going to find a lot to love in The Saturday Night Supper Club. Denver has such a unique feel and a particularly distinct food scene, and I'm excited for my audience to experience my home city like I do. More importantly, I've always had an affinity for "food people"--I've found that my professional cook friends and acquaintances definitely have artistic temperaments, much like writers. People in both professions tend to be driven, dedicated, and more than a little neurotic... which means that Rachel as a chef and Alex as a writer have much more in common that it might seem at first. I think readers will love seeing behind the scenes of their worlds, which are both far more interesting and far less glamorous than they seem from the outside.

3​. What role does faith play in this story?
 
The faith element in this story is subtle but particularly meaningful to me. Rachel's past experiences have damaged her view of God (and men) and left her with deep scars. In the end, the story is really about how God uses circumstances to guide her back to Him, even while she thinks she's having to go it alone. It's taken me decades to fully understand how God has been present in my own life; only now with the benefit of hindsight do I see how He was working all things for my good.

4. What lessons or truths do you hope people take away from The Saturday Night Supper Club?
 
I hope they realize that small heartfelt offerings, like cooking a meal for a friend, are just as important as grand gestures. I hope they are inspired to build strong friendships like the one Rachel has with Ana and Melody; in my opinion, they are an absolute necessity to buffer us from the hardships of modern life. And most of all, I hope readers realize that however distant they might feel from God, it's never too late to come back to Him.

5. As an author, what did you particularly enjoy about writing this story?
 
I'm both a food and a research fiend, so getting to delve into cheffy topics and call it work was pretty much a dream come true. It was also a lot of fun to look into Denver's Russian community for Alex's Russian-American background. Not a lot of the material made it into the final book, but it adds an interesting dimension to an already interesting hero. And honestly, I had a lot of "happy sigh" moments writing Rachel and Alex's romance. I'm not sure I've ever written a character I wanted more to earn her happily ever after.

6. The story speaks a lot about the friendship of main character, Rachel Bishop, and her two friends Analyn Sanchez and Melody Johansson. Can you tell us your inspiration for this circle of friends, and why you added this dynamic to the story? Which of the three characters can you relate to most and why?
 
When I started pursuing publication in the Christian market in 2012, I knew almost no one who wrote Christian fiction. I was fortunate enough to meet two fellow Colorado writers, who have since become incredibly important in my life. I've experienced a lot of ups and downs in my publishing career so far, and I can honestly say I wouldn't have kept going if it weren't for their support and encouragement. So this series is my homage to the power of those strong, encouraging female friendships. I relate to all of the characters in some fashion, but personality-wise, I'm most like Ana. In our little trio, I'm definitely the one who dishes out tough love and fixes problems. Then again, I'm also the serious cook of our three as well.
 
7. This story holds a great example of the power of social media in our culture today. How do you hope this influences readers?
 
Rachel loses her dream restaurant because of social media bullying and the online mob mentality, but it also becomes an instrument of her redemption as Alex uses it to write a new and kinder narrative. I hope that readers are reminded that virtual actions have real-life repercussions, and that there are actual people on the other end of the computer. Everything we read, particularly on social media, has a slant. It's our responsibility as decent human beings, but particularly as Christians, to find out the truth before we judge and share.

8. The Saturday Night Supper Club is the debut novel in a new, three book series. Can you give readers a taste of what to expect in the novels to come?

Melody and Ana will get their chance at love and pursue new career avenues, beginning with Melody in book two, Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe. We'll also see a lot more of Rachel and Alex as the series goes on. Plus food. Lots of delicious food... It's probably a good idea not to read any of these hungry!

Carla Laureano is the RITA® Award-winning author of contemporary inspirational romance and Celtic fantasy (as C.E. Laureano). A graduate of Pepperdine University, she worked as a sales and marketing executive for nearly a decade before leaving corporate life behind to write fiction full-time. She currently lives in Denver with her husband and two sons, where she writes during the day and cooks things at night. Connect with Carla online at her website www.carlalaureano.com.

About the Book:
Single mom, Eisley Barrett, prefers to keep romance housed within a centuries-old mystery, but when she travels to England to unearth the secret, an actor with a sordid past offers her heart a very different type of discovery.

Wes Harrison has a past he's ashamed to confess. Suspicious and cynical, he's managed to avoid romantic entanglements since a tragedy upended his career and life, that is until American Eisley Barrett comes along. Her authenticity and kindness upend his bitter assumptions and send his heart into unscripted territory.

When his past threatens to ruin a second chance at love, can some Appalachian matchmaking and letters from the grave salvage their unexpected romance?

Humor, love, mystery, cute kids, crazy families, and culture clashes make this Britallachian Romance a unique and delightful romantic comedy sprinkled with adventure.

My Thoughts:
Just as You Are was such a delightful read! Almost immediately the reader becomes just as smitten with Eisley as Wes was for all of the same reasons! She has a kind, generous heart, doesn’t take herself too seriously, and has a sense of humor that will crack you up! Wes’s genuine torment over his past choices, his humbling gratitude at the mercy and second chance God has given him, and his absolute abandon in pursuing Eisley most certainly will earn him a spot at the top of the “book boyfriend” list! And can I just say that Basham does not disappoint in the “sweet with heat” expectations her readers have come to anticipate! Not just one kiss, but every kiss Eisley and Wes share requires the fire department!

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated by the author or publisher in any way.

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of 5 great kids, speech-pathologist to about fifty more, lover of chocolate, jazz, and Jesus. Her debut historical novel, The Thorn Bearer, released in May 2015 and has garnered awards such as Reader's Favorites Award, finalist in the Grace Awards, shortlisted for the Inspy Awards, and a finalist in ACFW's Carol Awards. Her second historical novel, The Thorn Keeper, released in Feb 2016 and her first contemporary romance, A Twist of Faith, released in April 2016 with a 4 star review from Romantic Times. In December 2016, her third historical in the Penned in Time series, The Thorn Healer - released with a 4 1/2 star review from RT and a Top Picks rating. You can get to know Pepper on her website, www.pepperdbasham.com, on Facebook, or over at her group blog, The Writer's Alley.

About the Book:
Meet seven American women who were named for various flowers but struggle to bloom where God planted them. Can love help them grow to their full potential?
 
Holly and Ivy by Mary Davis (1890, Washington State)
At Christmastime, Holly Harrison accompanies her impetuous younger sister on her trip across the country to be a mail-order bride. But even as she tries to persuade her sister that loving a stranger is foolhardy, Holly loses her own heart to a fellow traveler.
 
Periwinkle in the Park by Kathleen Kovach (1910, Colorado)
Periwinkle Winfield is a hiking guide helping to commission a national park. But a run-in with a mountain man who is determined to keep the government off his land may place her in great danger.
 
At Home with Daffodils by Paula Moldenhauer (1909, Oklahoma)
When her childhood sweetheart returns to town, will Dilly Douglas accept the worthy heart he offers, or will the old wound he opens keep them apart?
 
A Song for Rose by Suzanne Norquist (1882, Rockledge, Colorado)
Can Patrick O’Donnell, a tenor disillusioned by the performance industry, convince Rose Miller that that there is more to music than her dream of joining an opera company?
 
Beauty in a Tansy? by Donita K. Paul (1918, South Dakota)
Tansy Terrell was named after a weed. When she opens shop next door, Arthur Blake recognizes Tansy's need to be valued as a beautiful flower but fails to see his own worth as a maker of instruments and music.
 
A Prickly Affair by Donna Schlachter (1885, Arizona)
A rough-and-tumble cowgirl, “Cactus” Lil Duncan longs for true love, but is afraid to let down her prickly exterior when a city slicker from New York City, with less-than-honorable intentions, tries to win her heart and her hand.
 
In Sheep’s Clothing by Pegg Thomas (1702, Connecticut)
Peter Maltby might be all good looks and charm, working in the new mill fulling wool, but Yarrow Fenn fears he is the Crown’s agent in disguise who will destroy the only livelihood she has.

My Thoughts:
Novella collections are a fantastic avenue for discovering new authors which is one of the reasons why I gravitate toward them. Bouquet of Brides provides great exposure to seven aspiring authors offering sweet stories of romance blooming in unexpected situations. Two stories that I particularly enjoyed were Holly and Ivy by Mary Davis and In Sheep’s Clothing by Pegg Thomas. Davis’s story offered humor at Nick’s disdain and astonishment at learning Ivy’s intent on marrying a man she didn’t know, but also exposed him as the gentle bear he was as his protective nature immediately rises to surface as the ladies’ self-appointed guardian. That gentleness is further displayed in his tenderness toward Holly as he begins to fall in love with her. In Sheep’s Clothing is a beautiful story of a man trying to overcome a questionable past and a young lady seen as awkward and cast off by others finding love and happiness together against the odds. The other stories in the collection were not as enjoyable for me. I felt that a few of them jumped too quickly to “love” without the needed story development to establish a chemistry between the characters, while in others the female lead’s character was just annoying to me being immature, fickle, or demanding in nature. Altogether, a sweet collection of light read novellas, and as stated earlier, a fantastic way to get a sampling from new authors.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.

About the Book:
Billionaire Ian Shaw can have everything he wants--except a happy ending. Or at least that's what it feels like with his fortune recently liquidated, his niece, Esme, still missing, and the woman he loves refusing to speak to him. In fact, he doubts she would date him even if they were stranded on a deserted island.

Despite her love for Ian, Sierra Rose knows he has no room in his life for her as long as the mystery of his missing niece goes unsolved. The only problem is, Sierra has solved it, but a promise to Esme to keep her whereabouts secret has made it impossible to be around Ian.

When the PEAK chopper is damaged and Sierra lacks the funds to repair it, Ian offers a fundraising junket for large donors on his yacht in the Caribbean. But the three-day excursion turns into a nightmare when a rogue wave cripples the yacht and sends the passengers overboard. Shaken up and soaked to the bone, Ian finally has a chance to test his theory when he and Sierra do indeed find themselves washed up on a strange, empty shore.

It will take guts and gumption for the PEAK team to rescue the duo. But it will take a miracle to rescue Ian and Sierra's relationship.

My Thoughts:
I think I've said this about every addition to the Montana Rescue series, but Troubled Waters is by far the best yet! Talk about star-crossed lovers! Romeo and Juliet had nothing on Ian and Sierra! These two just seem to face tragedy after tragedy blocking any attempt at romance! However, in Troubled Waters it is a tragedy that finally brings them a chance at their happily ever after. When they are stranded on a deserted island and their survival is still in question, they are finally faced with each other and choose to expose the raw emotions and long-seated desire in their hearts. Passionate kisses are shared (in keeping with the other two kisses they shared in the past), words longed to be expressed are spoken, and hope for a shared future emerge. Ian’s hero status is also officially confirmed, as well, when he rises to the occasion of protector, provider, and rescuer without the aid of his money. While a few more bumps in the road occur before their future is sealed, their ending could not have been more tender and sweet!

Although the description of the novel does not mention this, Pete and Jess’s story provides a strong secondary plot. Their relationship takes significant strides forward in an emotional roller coaster ride of brutal honesty, trust, and tenderness. Pete shows more raw emotion in this novel than in any other, causing him to be even more endearing and that much more a hero both in action and of the heart. And Jess not only comes face to face with her past, but is also confronted with having to make a decision about her future. Can’t wait to see what happens with their relationship in future books in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling author of over fifty novels with more than 1 million books sold, including Wild Montana Skies, Rescue Me, and A Matter of Trust. Winner of a RITA Award and multiple Christy and Carol Awards, as well as the HOLT and numerous Readers' Choice Awards, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic suspense, thrillers, romantic comedy, and novellas. She can be found online at www.susanmaywarren.com, on Facebook at Susan May Warren Fiction, and on Twitter @susanmaywarren.

About the Book:
Pearl in the Sand is Afshar’s fictionalized retelling of the heroic Canaanite prostitute, Rahab, from the Old Testament giving readers a glimpse into what this brave woman’s life may have been like.
After being sold into prostitution by her father, Rahab resigns herself into believing that her only worth is what she can give to men. However, Yahweh, the God of Israel, had a different plan deploying her as his agent in protecting the two Israelite spies who infiltrated her city, Jericho. In exchange for her assistance, the spies promise that when Jericho falls to the Israelite army, Rahab and her family will be rescued from the destruction. When the spies keep their promise, Rahab and her family have to learn a new way of life and the ways of God as they integrate into Jewish society. At first, Salmone, one of the leaders of the tribe of Judah, is disheartened that a prostitute and her pagan family have come to live among his people. But as time passes, Rahab’s hunger for God, gentle ways, and intelligent conversation challenges Salmone’s original perceptions of her creating instead a longing to connect with this anomaly of a woman. After the two surprisingly fall in love and marry, they discover they have very different expectations for the marriage. While Salmone is hopeful that they can build a new future together leaving Rahab’s unscrupulous past behind, she feels even more unworthy of her husband’s love withdrawing into herself. Her insurmountable grief at her past sins and his growing frustration and resentment at her closed-off response to him causes turmoil and pain for the newlyweds. As God softens Salmone’s heart through the wise counsel of Joshua, his mentor and Israel’s leader, he begins to understand the deep pain in Rahab’s heart and finds a way to help her understand not only the depths of his love for her, but also her great worth in the eyes of the loving God who created her.

My Thoughts:
Pearl in the Sand is one of those timeless love stories that touches the heart of everyone who reads it. Afshar does a superb job at portraying the struggles that both Rahab and Salmone could have experienced when having to reconcile her past with the future God had for her instead. Although we know that both Rahab and Salmone (and others in the story) were real people, I love how Afshar makes the characters come to life taking them off the pages of my Bible and thrusting them into the realm of humanity. Two scenes were my absolute favorite. Salmone’s discourse using her lost earring as an explanation of God’s unwavering love and adoration for Rahab despite her past was breathtaking. Likewise, Salmone’s tender, gentle guidance of Rahab as they finally begin exploring intimacy within their marriage bed is not only passionate but is also a beautiful example of what God intended sexual intimacy to encompass between a husband and wife.

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Tessa Afshar is an award-winning author of historical and biblical fiction. Her novel Land of Silence was voted by Library Journal as one of the top five Christian fiction titles of 2016 and was nominated for the 2016 RT Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Inspirational Romance. Harvest of Gold won the prestigious 2014 Christy Award in the Historical Romance category. Her book Harvest of Rubies was a finalist for the 2013 ECPA Book Award in the fiction category. In 2011, after publishing her first novel, Pearl in the Sand, Tessa was named New Author of the Year in the FamilyFiction-sponsored Reader’s Choice Awards. Tessa was born in Iran and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She then moved to England, where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale Divinity School, where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship. She now serves on the staff of one of the oldest churches in America. But that has not cured her from being exceptionally fond of chocolate. Contact Tessa at tessaafshar.com or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessaAfshar/

About the Book:
The Mail-Order Brides Collection features nine unique stories each from a different author sharing stories of unexpected, yet welcome, love often stemming from undue hardships in the characters’ lives. The collection captures the allure of the Old West complete with villains, outlaws, damsels in distress, and romance. A synopsis of each novella is provided below.

Perfect for the Preacher by Megan Besing
1897, Indiana
Fresh from seminary, Amos Lowry believes marriage will prove to his skeptical congregation that he’s mature. If only his mail-order bride wasn’t an ex-saloon girl, and worse, pregnant.
 
The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride by Noelle Marchand
1881, Wyoming
After a gang of outlaws uses a mail-order bride advertisement to trick an innocent woman into servitude, an undercover lawman must claim the bride—even if it puts his mission in jeopardy. 
 
Train Ride to Heartbreak by Donna Schlachter
1895, Train to California
John Stewart needs a wife. Mary Johannson needs a home. On her way west, Mary falls in love with another. Now both must choose between commitment and true love.
 
Mail-Order Proxy by Sherri Shackelford
1885, Montana
A mail-order marriage by proxy goes wrong when a clerical error leads to the proxies actually being married instead of the siblings they were standing in for. In their quest to correct the mistake, the two discover outlaws, adventure, and even love.
 
To Heal Thy Heart by Michelle Shocklee
1866, New Mexico
When Phoebe Wagner answers a mail-order bride ad that states Confederate widows need not apply, she worries what Dr. Luke Preston will do when he learns her fiancé died wearing gray.
 
Miss-Delivered Mail by Ann Shorey
1884, Washington
Helena Erickson impulsively decides to take advantage of her brother’s deception and travels to Washington Territory in response to a proposal of marriage intended for someone else. How will Daniel McNabb respond when Helena is nothing like he expected?
 
A Fairy-Tale Bride by Liz Tolsma
1867, Texas
Nora Green doesn’t feel much like Cinderella when her mail-order groom stands her up. But could the mysterious jester from the town’s play be her Prince Charming?
 
The Brigand and the Bride by Jennifer Uhlarik
1876, Arizona 
Jolie Hilliard weds a stranger to flee her outlaw family but discovers her groom is an escaped prisoner. Will she ever find happiness on the right side of the law?
 
The Mail-Order Mistake by Kathleen Y’Barbo
1855, Texas
Pinkerton detective Jeremiah Bingham is investigating a mail-order bride scam bankrupting potential grooms. When unsuspecting orphan May Conrad answers his false ad, she becomes the prime suspect in the case.

My Thoughts:
I’m a complete sucker for “mail-order brides” stories and this collection did not disappoint! Each author draws the reader in through their craft of storytelling infusing the reader with the sights, sounds, joys, and hardships of the frontier West. While other collections may present “mail-order brides” as fickle dream seekers, I feel that The Mail-Order Brides Collection captures the undeniable bravery displayed by history’s real-life women who answered the call to fulfill the need for brides in the untamed West. Although I enjoyed all of the stories, I had a few favorites. Amos and Sophie’s immediate attraction upon meeting in Perfect for the Preacher developed into a sweet and tender love story exemplifying grace and commitment. The Outlaw’s Inconvenient Bride was comical in some parts, but Mariah- the strong, determined, and at times stubborn- lead character was refreshing in the face of her circumstances. I especially enjoyed the gentle melding of hearts between Luke and Phoebe after a rocky start in To Heal Thy Heart. Finally, the fierce protectiveness Del displayed over Jolie was tenderness at its best (and their first kiss had me in stitches!). Great opportunity to get introduced to new authors within a specific genre!
​
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. This review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.

​About the Book:
After being coaxed by her best friend to become a contestant on a dating reality tv show, Hanna Knight determined she’d have nothing to lose and jumped in feet first earning the nickname “Holy Hanna” for her staunch determination to hold fast to her moral principles while on the show. When handsome CEO Will Preston chose Hanna as his love match, her dreams of happily ever with her charming prince seemed to be coming true. That is until Will betrayed Hanna in a slip of machoism leading the show’s viewers to believe their romance was indeed steamy. With her reputation in ruins Hanna returns home with a broken heart, no job, and a pile of hate mail as her only consolation prizes. Seven months later Will is back in her life begging for forgiveness and offering an unusual solution- faking their engagement- as a means to salvage his flailing job and her reputation. As the two work to pull off their new personas as a happily engaged couple, they stumble upon two startling revelations- their feelings for each other subtly shift into a true romance, and they find that someone may be trying to sabotage Will at work.

My Thoughts:
The Engagement Plot was a humorous, emotionally charged book that has its pulse on the modern version of fantasy dating via tv reality shows. Both characters struggled with anger and forgiveness having to strip themselves to the bare bones and choose to take the better path of forgiveness. Phillips superbly balanced light-hearted almost comical situations with the more sobering side of Hanna and Will’s plight. Will’s nemesis and the source behind his attacks was rather obvious from the beginning, but the crisis with his job served as a sound backdrop for Will’s reflection on prioritizing his life. Good read that I thoroughly enjoyed!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. This review was not required but was voluntary and contains my own thoughts and opinions regarding this literary work.

Krista Phillips writes inspirational romantic comedy. She believes a sprinkle of laughter (and a wee bit of chocolate) makes everything a little better! She blogs regularly about life as a wife, mother, follower of Jesus, and mother of a child with a rare congenital heart defect at www.kristaphillips.com. 

About the Book:
Nicholas Stamford, the seventh Earl of Hawkesbury, loathes the social requirements shackled by his title, is haunted by the atrocities he experienced in battle, and finds his responsibilities toward the people of St. Hampton Heath burdensome. But the country preacher’s daughter, Lavinia Ellison, has captivated him with her simple beauty, intelligent and engaging conversation, and tireless care of the poor in the village. Her disdain for the Earl’s perceived arrogance and indifferent attitude toward his villagers leads to many a sparring match. However, between their bantering the roots of a blooming romance begin to form as each wrestles with their desire to spend more and more time together. After nearly losing her to influenza and small pox, Nicholas finally opens his heart not only to her, but also to God. However, his realization that he loves her does not nullify his familial obligation to marry at his social status. In the meantime, Lavinia faces her own struggle with a newly revealed deeply held family secret that will not only change her life significantly, but will also impact the potential of a future with Nicholas that she so desires.

My Thoughts:
A story with a strong female lead with a sharp wit and who isn’t afraid to speak her mind is always fun! Lavinia and Nicholas’s interactions were amusing, and I chuckled at how Nicholas’s attraction to Lavinia only grew stronger with her cool manner toward him. Oh, how I love when an arrogant man is put in his place! Endearing just as much, however, was Nicholas’s tenderness toward her after he chooses to surrender his life to God, and the realness of the battles he faces within between his “old” self and his new, redeemed self. The ending was a little convenient, I’d say, but still gratifying.

This review contains my own thoughts and opinions. I have not been compensated by the publisher or author in any way.

Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia. She is married, with four gorgeous children, who all love to read (and write!) as she does (except not in the Regency genre - funny, that!). She write stories that are fun and witty, yet also deal with real issues, such as dealing with forgiveness, the nature of really loving versus 'true love', and other challenges we all face at different times. To learn more, visit https://www.carolynmillerauthor.com/.