Win 3 Proper Romances from Shadow Mountain Publishing (Monthly #Giveaway) #Ad


This month I'm joining Shadow Mountain Publishing in Romance Awareness Month!
You'll be seeing quite a few posts this month spotlighting the romances in the Proper Romance line. This is one of my favorite lines of books, so I'm excited to be participating!! There will also be a Facebook Party this Friday, August 4th, from 2 PM to 4:45 PM EDT.

Searching for Irene by Marlene Bateman (Blog Tour Excerpt)


The synopsis of this one reminds me a little of one of my favorite classical mysteries, so
it's peaked my interest. Let me know what you think about the book and excerpt below...

Searching for Irene
by Marlene Bateman
Adult Romantic Suspense
Paperback & ebook, 268 Pages
July 1st 2017 by Covenant Communications

Summary

What happened to Irene?

When Anna Coughlin, a modern 1920’s woman, travels to the secluded hills of Virginia to work for wealthy Lawrence Richardson, she discovers that the previous secretary, Irene, mysteriously disappeared a few weeks before. Upon arriving at the castle-like mansion to begin working, Anna finds that Lawrence’s handsome, but antagonistic son, Tyler, wants nothing more than to have her gone. And he isn’t the only one—

After Anna sets out to find the truth behind Irene’s disappearance, a series of frightening incidents ensnare her in a maze of intrigue. Anna is helped—and often hindered—by the temperamental Tyler Richardson, who—despite her best intentions—begins to steal her heart. 

But even as Anna begins to uncover dark secrets in a troubled household, she must continue to hide a significant one of her own. When her life is threatened, Anna is left to wonder if she’ll be able to unravel the mystery before she disappears as mysteriously as the unfortunate Irene—

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

Weekly Update #225, Another month almost over...


Welcome to my Weekly Update where I post my blog's schedule for the week!

I'm linking up to The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book ReviewerTynga's Reviews for Stacking the Shelves and Mailbox Monday showcasing the books I added to my shelves or Kindle this week, and It's Monday! What Are You Reading? hosted by Kathryn @ Book Date.

I can't believe July is almost over! It's just crazy to me!! My summer is just going to fast. I am happy that my schedule is finally settling down a little and I've started actually getting back on top of my reading. It'll still take me a little bit to completely catch back up, but I'm enjoying what I'm reading and that's always a huge plus.


Is there anything you've read this summer that I should add to my must-read list?

And here's what to expect on the blog this week:

Outshine by Nichole Van (Review)

Outshine (House of Oak #5)Outshine
(House of Oak #5)
by Nichole Van
Adult Historical Romance, Time Travel
Paperback & ebook, 331 Pages
March 31st 2017 by Fiorenza Publishing

Summary

Time is not a river. It is a vast cosmic sea, where each life exists as rippling circles on its surface. Usually, the eternal ocean oscillates in harmony, all lives breathing up and down as one. But something has broken this equilibrium, turning the cosmic ocean into turbulent waters . . .

In 1828, Daniel Ashton, Lord Whitmoor, faces a problem of epic proportion—an earthquake has caused the time portal in Duir Cottage to stop functioning, disrupting the cosmic ocean and threatening Time itself. He needs a computer to crunch numbers and provide a solution. But with the time portal on the fritz, a computer is two hundred years in the future. So Daniel sets out to find the next best thing—an anonymous mathematical genius of legendary renown.

Fossi Lovejoy knows she is too odd, too intelligent, too old and too poor to ever marry. So she busies herself in her father’s ministry and her mathematical equations, choosing to focus on what she has, not what she lacks. But then Lord Whitmoor publishes one of her private theorems, taunting her to respond. Fossi is compelled to action—when you have so little in life, you defend the few things that are yours with ferocious tenacity. Even if it means matching wits with the infamous Lord Whitmoor.

Can two people past their youth find unexpected love?

This final installment in the Amazon bestselling House of Oak series can easily be read as a stand-alone book. Check out the other books in the series, all available now on Amazon:

Intertwine (House of Oak, Book 1)
Divine (House of Oak, Book 2)
Clandestine (House of Oak, Book 3)
Refine (House of Oak, Book 4)

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

Lies and Letters by Ashtyn Newbold (Blog Tour Review)


I love historical romances! Read my review below to see what I thought about this one...

Lies and Letters
(Pure Romance)
by Ashtyn Newbold
Adult Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 247 Pages
July 11th 2017 by Sweetwater Books

Summary

After a season in London, Charlotte Lyons is still regrettably unattached. With her family’s finances in peril, she is sent away with her sister to a bleak coastal town where she is expected to pursue a wealthy earl. Beautiful and talented, how could she possibly fail? But when her heart is captured by someone entirely unexpected, Charlotte finds herself caught up in a web of lies and intrigue. Between hardship and sorrow, she finds more than she bargained for, forced to choose between the life she once wanted and a new love she never imagined.

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

#WishfulWonder August Instagram Challenge


#WishfulWonder's Instagram Challenge is hosted by me and Rissi at Finding Wonderland. Feel free to jump on board at any time!

Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon Sign-Up #TackleTBR READ-A-THON INFORMATION


I'm gearing up to get the Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon going again this year (here are the schedules from 201620152014 and 2013 in case you want to take a look).

The Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon is hosted here at Wishful Endings. It runs from September 11th through 24th with the goal of diminishing our to-read pile of books. All books in any format and source count and you do not have to be a blogger to participate. There are challenges and giveaways as well. You can sign up through September 23rd. Find out more and sign up below.

Read-a-thon Info

The Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon begins Monday, September 11th and ends Sunday, September 24th, with a wrap-up (including giveaway winners) on September 25th.

You do not have to be a blogger to sign up. Just use your Goodreads, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, or Tumblr, or leave a comment stating that you'll just post updates on my blog commenting on my updates instead (basically just pick a place you're going to post updates on and let us know where to find them). For the linky, you need to leave a link (your blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, etc.). If you don't have an actual site you'll be using, like if you're going to participate by leaving comments on my blog, then just state "in comments," or if you're going to only use the Goodreads group then state "Goodreads group," but leave your email so that I have a way to reach you.

When the read-a-thon officially begins, you all will have a chance to add a sign-up/goals post (or leave it in comments in response to mine).

What can you read as part of the read-a-thon? Anything. It can be an audiobook, ebook, physical book, published, ARC, etc. There are no restrictions. The idea is to lower our TBR piles and any way you want to do that is just fine by me. :)

Please sign up using the linky at the end of the this post (even if you're only going to be participating via commenting). You MUST be signed up in the linky to enter any related giveaways and participate in the challenges. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO POST A SIGN-UP POST (with or without goals, we will be posting goals too, but that isn't required) AND A WRAP-UP POST (at the end of the read-a-thon) TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE GIVEAWAYS HOSTED HERE. The wrap-up post can just be your initial post with a final update added. It does not need to be a separate post.

You're welcome to participate as much or as little as you'd like.
The read-a-thon is to encourage us all to read so that we can tackle those tbr piles, not to cause extra stress. ;) You will see daily updates posted here, but there are no requirements that you leave an update every day or at all. Daily updates are great, though, to help us all stay motivated and cheer each other on. If you do want to post a daily update, here is a simple template (omit or add things as you like):

Daily Updates Format
(suggested)

DAY OF THE CHALLENGE/DATE
Books Read:
Pages Read:
Total Books Read:
Total Pages Read:
Finished Books:

YOU CAN SIGN UP THROUGH SEPTEMBER 23RD.

Schedule

This is the schedule for the read-a-thon, including challenges and giveaways:

9/11: Kick-Off with giveaway, which will include:
  • $15 Amazon gift card (INT)
  • Book of winner's choice from their TBR (INT)
9/12: Author J Lenni Dorner (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/13: Singing Librarian Books (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/14: Wishful Endings (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/15: A Weebish Book Blog (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/16: Author Allison D. Reid (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/17: Twitter Chat (Twitter Chat will be from 8-9 PM EDT)
9/18: Mid-Point Check-In
9/19: Author Jemima Pett (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/20: Wishful Endings (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/21: Author Katherine Reay (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/22: Author Becky Wade (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/23: Nesie's Place (Challenge/Giveaway)
9/24: Read-a-thon Ends (last day to read - no challenge)
9/25: Wrap-Up (giveaway won't close until the end of day to allow everyone to link up)

Official Sign-Up

Sign up using the linky below and add the read-a-thon to your calendar! I'd also love it if you would spread the word by posting the read-a-thon button on your sidebar with a link back to this post and/or sharing on social media (remember to use #TackleTBR). Feel free to comment or email with questions. Then on September 11th come back here to join us in reading!

Remember
Hashtag: #TackleTBR
Tag Tressa on Twitter: @TresSherm
Tag Tressa on Instagram @WishfulEndings
Join the Goodreads group here

IMPORTANT
Make sure you sign up in the linky below. To enter the main giveaways, you must be signed up here and also link up a wrap-up post at the end of the RAT.

Looking forward to reading with you all again this year!

The Year I Dated the Internet by Stacy Lynn Carroll (Review)

The Year I Dated the Internet
by Stacy Lynn Carroll
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 347 Pages
May 23rd 2017

Summary

With her 30th birthday fast approaching, Chelsea Wilson decides she is done being single. She is going to be married by the end of the year if it kills her. And sixteen first dates might just do that. With no male companionship, other than her cat Daughtry, Chelsea reluctantly creates an online dating profile. She begins meeting all kinds of men in a world now full of man buns and skinny jeans. While trying to find one good man, she ends up with four. How will Chelsea ever decide? The best part is she doesn’t have to. It’s up to you. In this romantic comedy like no other, you, the reader, get to pick who Chelsea chooses in the end. Her fate is in your hands.

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

Praise for the Book

“I highly recommend reading this book. The story is fantastic, the dates memorable, and the ending is what you decide. I was so happy to choose which guy Chelsea ends up with, I felt even more involved in her story.” –Stacy Lybbert, Amazon reviewer

“Having read plenty of fiction with endings I didn’t love, this book was refreshing and fun. And having been married for a couple of decades and out of the dating scene, it was eye opening to get of glimpse of the new world of online dating and how difficult it can be.” –Holly Frasche, Amazon reviewer

“There was plenty of humour throughout the story and I shared some of the jokes with friends and family who all laughed as well. I would like to see more books like this. It lived up to its description and recommendation and I’m glad I read it. I would recommend it. It was just what I was looking for: a nice, light read with no heavy stuff.” –Autism Mom, Amazon reviewer

“I especially liked how real and well developed the characters were. The main character has dating experiences that anyone in the dating world can relate with, as well as experiences that no one would want, and ones that are unique to our age of the internet, taking the reader on a ride that is entertaining and heart warming.” –Leilani Peterson, Amazon reviewer.

I can't wait for... Tower of Dawn by Sarah J. Maas (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)


Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here, at Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. If you're continuing with WOW, feel free to link those up as well! Find out more here.

I'm behind in this series, but I'm still really looking forward to the newest Throne of Glass book! I'm curious about the cover change - why now the symbol instead of the Caleana or another character on the front? And, if you didn't already know, there is an exclusive Target edition, a special Barnes and Noble edition and then you can also get a paperback copy from Book Depository. Options, options... Either way, I'll be grabbing this one...

A Veil of Shadows by Michael W. Garza (Cover Reveal)


Welcome to the Cover Reveal for
A Veil of Shadows by Michael W. Garza
Coming September 22nd 2017 from NeverHaven Press...

Lucky in Love by Kasie West (Review)

Lucky in Love
by Kasie West
YA Contemporary
Hardcover & ebook, 352 Pages
July 25th 2017 by Scholastic

Summary

In this new contemporary from YA star Kasie West, a girl who wins the lottery learns that money can cause more problems than it solves, especially when love comes into the picture. 

Maddie doesn't believe in luck. She's all about hard work and planning ahead. But one night, on a whim, she buys a lottery ticket. And then, to her astonishment --

She wins!

In a flash, Maddie's life is unrecognizable. No more stressing about college scholarships. Suddenly, she's talking about renting a yacht. And being in the spotlight at school is fun... until rumors start flying, and random people ask her for loans. Now, Maddie isn't sure who she can trust.

Except for Seth Nguyen, her funny, charming coworker at the local zoo. Seth doesn't seem aware of Maddie's big news. And, for some reason, she doesn't want to tell him. But what will happen if he learns her secret?

With tons of humor and heart, Kasie West delivers a million-dollar tale of winning, losing, and falling in love.

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

Weekly Update #224, the monsoons have arrived...


Welcome to my Weekly Update where I post my blog's schedule for the week!

I'm linking up to The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book ReviewerTynga's Reviews for Stacking the Shelves and Mailbox Monday showcasing the books I added to my shelves or Kindle this week, and It's Monday! What Are You Reading? hosted by Kathryn @ Book Date.

If you've lived in Arizona, then you know about the monsoons. It's where we switch from our dry heat to humidity with dust storms (sometimes huge dust walls), rain, and thunderstorms (we have some seriously awesome lightning shows). I love the rain! Love it! I also love the lower temperatures (like from 115 back down to 100). However, it does disrupt me trying to take pictures for Instagram. :/ The flip side is that I love reading while it's storming outside. I don't know what it is about rain, but it's the perfect background to reading. Do you guys like to read when it's raining?


My oldest starts school tomorrow and I'm rather dreading it. Although, I think he's dreading it more. Lol! The other kids don't start for about three more weeks. I'm not really looking forward to the crazy drop-off and pick-up schedules, before and after school events, and homework. Plus, the kids are just growing up too darn fast! It does give me a little more free time during the day, so at least there's a trade-off there.

Anyway, on to reading... I've got a mix of books this week and hopefully something for all of you. Here's what to expect:

A Holiday in Bath by Julie Daines, Caroline Warfield & Jaima Fixsen (Review)

A Holiday in Bath
(Timeless Regency Collection)
by Julie Daines, Caroline Warfield & Jaima Fixsen
Adult Historical Romance, Novella
ebook, 300 Pages
May 9th 2017 by Mirror Press

Summary

From the publisher of the USA TODAY bestselling & #1 Amazon bestselling Timeless Romance Anthology series in Clean & Wholesome Romance, comes A HOLIDAY IN BATH. 

Three brand new Regency Romance novellas by Julie Daines, Caroline Warfield, and Jaima Fixsen 

TRIAL OF THE HEART by Julie Daines 
Marianne Wood has been summoned to Bath to testify against the man who killed her family. She dreads coming face to face with the monster of her nightmares, but finds surprising comfort under the care of a charming barrister, Harby Northam. Despite his kindly attentions, Mr. Northam is a shrewd and discerning man of law with an awful secret. Marianne is put to the test as she deals with the evil of her past and her growing affection for the mysterious Mr. Northam. 

LORD EDMUND’S DILEMMA by Caroline Warfield 
Lucy Ashcroft doesn’t share her stepmother’s belief that she might find a husband during her sojourn in Bath, but she does enjoy a respite from a household full of half-siblings and a younger sister preparing for her London Season, something Lucy can’t even dream about. In Bath, she enjoys the company of the elderly ladies in her aunt’s circle, and happy to be out from under her stepmother’s watchful and speculating eye. But when Lucy meets Lord Edmund Parker, all of her expectations for a quiet, unassuming holiday suddenly change. 

THE ART OF KISSING IN THE PARK by Jaima Fixsen 
Caroline Trenholme is not pleased with Bath, the fussy, antiquated resort of the shabby-genteel. She ought to be in London, finding a man—not here, coddling her irrational grandmother. In the park, she crosses paths (literally—this is Bath, after all) with a nameless, mannerless rogue, intent on stealing a kiss. As if his proposition weren’t insult enough, even her dog seems to like the man better. It's impossible! Especially once she suspects she might like him too…

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

Lucky in Love by Kasie West (Blog Tour Guest Post & #Giveaway)


Kasie West is one of my top favorite authors! Today she's stopping by to share some
fun things about her heroine, Maddie, from her newest release. Check it all out below...

Lucky in Love
by Kasie West
YA Contemporary
Hardcover & ebook, 352 Pages
July 25th 2017 by Scholastic

Summary

In this new contemporary from YA star Kasie West, a girl who wins the lottery learns that money can cause more problems than it solves, especially when love comes into the picture. 

Maddie doesn't believe in luck. She's all about hard work and planning ahead. But one night, on a whim, she buys a lottery ticket. And then, to her astonishment --

She wins!

In a flash, Maddie's life is unrecognizable. No more stressing about college scholarships. Suddenly, she's talking about renting a yacht. And being in the spotlight at school is fun... until rumors start flying, and random people ask her for loans. Now, Maddie isn't sure who she can trust.

Except for Seth Nguyen, her funny, charming coworker at the local zoo. Seth doesn't seem aware of Maddie's big news. And, for some reason, she doesn't want to tell him. But what will happen if he learns her secret?

With tons of humor and heart, Kasie West delivers a million-dollar tale of winning, losing, and falling in love.

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

Rebel in a Small Town by Kristina Knight (Blog Tour Grand Finale & #Giveaway)

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Rebel in a Small Town
By Kristina Knight

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

My family's special project for this new series is continuing with the release of Rebel in a Small Town, too. We’re donating a portion of the proceeds from the Slippery Rock series toward providing Sweet Cases from TogetherWeRise to foster children. Most children going in to foster care have nothing but the clothes on their backs. Sweet Cases are duffel bags given to children coming in to care, and once given, the bags remain with that child, giving them a sense of home and, hopefully, a sense that they aren't alone. Each duffel includes a warm blanket, a teddy bear, hygiene kit, and art supplies.

— Kristina

Starting Over at Steeple Ridge by Liz Isaacson (Review)

Starting Over at Steeple Ridge
(Timeless Romance Single)
by Liz Isaacson
Adult Contemporary Romance, Novella
ebook, 100 Pages
March 20th 2017 by Mirror Press

Summary

STARTING OVER AT STEEPLE RIDGE: A brand new contemporary romance novella from Liz Isaacson

Tucker Jenkins has had enough of tall buildings, traffic, and business meetings to determine the next app that will change the world. He's sold his technology firm for billions and traded it for Steeple Ridge Horse Farm in rural Vermont.

Missy Marino has worked at the boarding stable and farm since she was a teen, and she's always dreamed of owning it. But her ex-husband left her with a truckload of debt, making her fantasies of owning the farm unfulfilled.

When she meets Tucker, she starts having a new kind of fantasy—one where they work with the horses together. Tucker didn't come to the country to find a new wife, but he supposes a woman could help him start over in Steeple Ridge. Will Tucker and Missy be able to navigate the shaky ground between them to find a new beginning?

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

The Last Magician by Lisa Maxwell (Blog Tour Interview & #Giveaway)


I'm welcoming the author of this new release to my blog today for an
interview, so make sure you check that out as well as the giveaway below...

The Last Magician
by Lisa Maxwell
YA Fantasy, Urban Fantasy. Time Travel
Hardcover & ebook, 512 Pages
July 18th 2017 by Simon Pulse

Summary

Stop the Magician.
Steal the book.
Save the future.

In modern day New York, magic is all but extinct. The remaining few who have an affinity for magic—the Mageus—live in the shadows, hiding who they are. Any Mageus who enters Manhattan becomes trapped by the Brink, a dark energy barrier that confines them to the island. Crossing it means losing their power—and often their lives.

Esta is a talented thief, and she's been raised to steal magical artifacts from the sinister Order that created the Brink. With her innate ability to manipulate time, Esta can pilfer from the past, collecting these artifacts before the Order even realizes she’s there. And all of Esta's training has been for one final job: traveling back to 1902 to steal an ancient book containing the secrets of the Order—and the Brink—before the Magician can destroy it and doom the Mageus to a hopeless future.

But Old New York is a dangerous world ruled by ruthless gangs and secret societies, a world where the very air crackles with magic. Nothing is as it seems, including the Magician himself. And for Esta to save her future, she may have to betray everyone in the past.

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

I can't wait for... Forest of a Thousand Lanterns by Julie C. Dao (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)


Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here, at Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. If you're continuing with WOW, feel free to link those up as well! Find out more here.

I love the cover for this one (my favorite color is green) and the synopsis just sounds like it will be an awesome story. I also love that this is set outside the US and is a retelling. It's my pick this week...

Let's discuss... Book Reviews that Offend


I don't believe that people should hide how they think, feel, or stand on an issue, but I also think they should be respectful of others and stick to what is being discussed and not take things personally. I have a group of friends who believe all sorts of things differently than I do and I've never felt that meant I couldn't be respectful, kind or their friend. In fact, I love learning why they think or believe the way they do and how I can better understand them. Sometimes we just agree to disagree.

This translates to book reviews as well. I know that reviews are subjective. They're based on the reader's feelings and preferences. I totally went against the trend when I reviewed the Hunger Games series quite a while back because I didn't enjoy it. I know, shocker. I actually like the movies better (except that last one with aliens instead of dogs). I've never written a review with the purpose to offend other readers or the author. In fact, I usually try to be nice about books I don't end up liking, although it can be a tough line to balance.

Have you seen readers get offended by others' reviews or have you been offended by a review?

The Renegade's Redemption by Stacy Henrie (Blog Tour Grand Finale & #Giveaway)


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for
The Renegade's Redemption
By Stacy Henrie

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

Ever since sharing some of Tex’s story in my last Love Inspired Historical book about his twin brother Tate, I’ve eagerly anticipated the chance for readers to get to know Tex better—through his own story this time. A legendary, charismatic outlaw, Tex was a fun and complex character to write. So, too, was his reunion with the girl he left behind eight years ago Ravena Reid.

Grounded Hearts by Jeanne M. Dickson (Blog Tour Review & #Giveaway)


I enjoy inspirational stories set during war because they usually throw two unlikely characters
together and then test their strength while forming an unbreakable bond. This is such a story...

Grounded Hearts
by Jeanne M. Dickson
Christian Historical Romance
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 337 Pages
June 13th 2017 by Waterfall Press

Summary

A brave midwife. A wounded pilot. A risky secret.

In the midst of World War II, Ireland has declared herself neutral. Troops found on Irish soil must be reported and interned, no matter which side they are fighting for. When midwife Nan O'Neil finds a wounded young Canadian pilot at her door, she knows she's taking a huge risk by letting him in. Not only is she a widow living alone, but if caught harboring a combatant, she'll face imprisonment.

Still, something compels Nan to take in "flyboy" Dutch Whitney, an RAF pilot whose bomber has just crashed over County Clare. While she tends to his wounds and gives him a secret place of refuge, the two begin to form a mutual affection-and an unbreakable bond.

But Nan has another secret, one that has racked her with guilt since her husband's death and made her question ever loving again. As Nan and Dutch plan his escape, can he help restore her faith?

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

Weekly Update #223, in which there might be an end in sight to my crazy life...


Welcome to my Weekly Update where I post my blog's schedule for the week!

I'm linking up to The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book ReviewerTynga's Reviews for Stacking the Shelves and Mailbox Monday showcasing the books I added to my shelves or Kindle this week, and It's Monday! What Are You Reading? hosted by Kathryn @ Book Date.

I'm starting to feel like a broken record... Another extremely busy week down and this upcoming week, that I thought was going to be lighter, is turning out to not be. BUT, there is an end in sight. I have the classes finished that I needed to take and a test this week for some licensing for my new part-time job and then the following week will finally be less crazy. Hallelujah! Then I can relax again with reading at night and get my life back (including returning comments and being on instagram again). The thought makes me quite happy.


In the meantime, I do still have stuff going on here, so this is what to expect:

Rebel in a Small Town by Kristina Knight (Blog Tour & #Giveaway)

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Launch for
Rebel in a Small Town
By Kristina Knight

Note from the Author

I'm super-excited because it's a brand new month and I've got a brand new book out for you! It's the second in my new Slippery Rock series, and features interim town sheriff, James Calhoun and Mara Tyler, the absentee sister from Tyler Orchard!

One of the themes throughout the Slippery Rock series is home. Home can be a million different things to a million different people, but I think what it holds in common for all of us is a feeling of safety. Of belonging.

Home is something that Mara has been missing since leaving Slippery Rock in a misguided attempt to protect James ten years before; what is surprising to Mara is that she's missed home at all. Because, although she does love her family, she's always felt a little out of place in Slippery Rock. For a while, she and James had a secret affair, and when things got a little too hot for Mara to handle, she ran. Now, though, a tornado has torn the town apart and her family needs her...and she needs her family, too. There's just one little problem: when she ran from James the first time, she didn't know she was pregnant...and now, she's going to tell him.

My family's special project for this new series is continuing with the release of Rebel in a Small Town, too. We’re donating a portion of the proceeds from the Slippery Rock series toward providing Sweet Cases from TogetherWeRise to foster children. Most children going in to foster care have nothing but the clothes on their backs. Sweet Cases are duffel bags given to children coming in to care, and once given, the bags remain with that child, giving them a sense of home and, hopefully, a sense that they aren't alone. Each duffel includes a warm blanket, a teddy bear, hygiene kit, and art supplies.

— Kristina

Home to Stay by Kate James (Blog Tour Grand Finale & #Giveaway)

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Home to Stay
By Kate James

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

This promises to be a fun-packed tour with lots of stops along the way. Heartfelt thanks to all the bloggers who signed up for this tour. I put together a special prize-pack to recognize the terrific response. I’m looking forward to all the stops, and I hope to see you along the way!

— Kate

The Renegade's Redemption by Stacy Henrie (Blog Tour Excerpt & #Giveaway)


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

I love Stacy Henrie's books and am excited to share an excerpt from her
newest release with you today. Check that, the book, and giveaway out below...

The Renegade's Redemption
by Stacy Henrie
Inspirational Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 288 pages
July 1st 2017 by Love Inspired Historical

Summary

Refuge for the Outlaw

When Tex Beckett arrives at Ravena Reid's farm, he's eight years too late for the elopement they'd once planned—and it's far too early to win her forgiveness. He's seriously wounded, though, and she can't turn him away, though she knows better than to trust him. Yes, it's wonderful having help with the farm, and with the orphans she fosters, but if she opens her heart, she'll get hurt again when he leaves. And Tex always leaves.

As a notorious bank robber, Tex is used to danger. Yet reuniting with the only woman he's ever loved is the riskiest thing he's ever done. All he wants is to stay with Ravena and the children. But can he build a new start before his past catches up with him?

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)
GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & NobleBook Depository
HarlequinKoboiBooksGooglePlayBAMIndieBound

The Year I Dated the Internet by Stacy Lynn Carroll (Book Blitz Excerpt & #Giveaway)

The Year I Dated the Internet
by Stacy Lynn Carroll
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, ? Pages
May 23rd 2017

Summary

With her 30th birthday fast approaching, Chelsea Wilson decides she is done being single. She is going to be married by the end of the year if it kills her. And sixteen first dates might just do that. With no male companionship, other than her cat Daughtry, Chelsea reluctantly creates an online dating profile. She begins meeting all kinds of men in a world now full of man buns and skinny jeans. While trying to find one good man, she ends up with four. How will Chelsea ever decide? The best part is she doesn’t have to. It’s up to you. In this romantic comedy like no other, you, the reader, get to pick who Chelsea chooses in the end. Her fate is in your hands.

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

Grab your copy for just 99¢ from July 11th to 15th!

Praise for the Book

“I highly recommend reading this book. The story is fantastic, the dates memorable, and the ending is what you decide. I was so happy to choose which guy Chelsea ends up with, I felt even more involved in her story.” –Stacy Lybbert, Amazon reviewer

“Having read plenty of fiction with endings I didn’t love, this book was refreshing and fun. And having been married for a couple of decades and out of the dating scene, it was eye opening to get of glimpse of the new world of online dating and how difficult it can be.” –Holly Frasche, Amazon reviewer

“There was plenty of humour throughout the story and I shared some of the jokes with friends and family who all laughed as well. I would like to see more books like this. It lived up to its description and recommendation and I’m glad I read it. I would recommend it. It was just what I was looking for: a nice, light read with no heavy stuff.” –Autism Mom, Amazon reviewer

“I especially liked how real and well developed the characters were. The main character has dating experiences that anyone in the dating world can relate with, as well as experiences that no one would want, and ones that are unique to our age of the internet, taking the reader on a ride that is entertaining and heart warming.” –Leilani Peterson, Amazon reviewer.

Fragile Chaos by Amber R. Duell (Blog Tour & #Giveaway)


I love mythology and this story is a nice twist on that. Check all the
info and the giveaway out below and join the FRAGILE CHAOS
Release Day Party on Facebook to chat with Amber & win prizes!

Fragile Chaos
by Amber R. Duell
YA Fantasy, Mythology
Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 300 Pages
July 11th 2017 by Radiant Crown Publishing, LLC

Summary

A GOD OF WAR SEEKING RESTORATION.

AN UNWILLING SACRIFICIAL BRIDE.

BETRAYAL THAT COULD DESTROY THEM BOTH.

“[E]very fiber of my being is woven from the rage of mortals.”

Theodric, the young God of War, has a talent for inciting conflict and bloodshed. After being stripped of his powers by his older brother, King of Gods, he sets out to instigate a mortal war to prove himself worthy of being restored to power.

“I loved Kisk once; it was my home… But that was before. This is now.”

Sixteen-year-old Cassia, like many in the modern era, believes gods and goddesses to be just a myth. Enemy to her country and an orphan of the war, she has no time for fairy tales. That’s until religious zealots from Theo’s sect offer her up as a sacrifice.

Can Cassia and Theo end the mortal war and return balance to the earth and heavens? Or, will their game of fate lead down a path of destruction, betrayal, and romance neither of them saw coming?

(Affiliate links included, meaning I receive a small kickback when you make a purchase using my links.)

I can't wait for... All the Crooked Saints by Maggie Stiefvater (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)


Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here, at Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. If you're continuing with WOW, feel free to link those up as well! Find out more here.

Maggie Stiefvater always has interesting stories and excellent characters. I also love her writing style. Her upcoming release is my pick this week...

Home to Stay by Kate James (Blog Tour Review & #Giveaway)


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

I've enjoyed all of Kate's books as well as working with her, so I was thrilled to get to
review her newest! You can see what I thought below as well as enter her fabulous giveaway...

Home to Stay
(San Diego K-9 Unit #4)
by Kate James
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 312 pages
July 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Summary

She's bringing his son home

A missing little boy triggers San Diego K-9 officer Shannon Clemens and her canine search-and-rescue partner into instant action. For the rookie cop haunted by a childhood tragedy, bringing Sawyer Evans's son safely home is more than a job. It's a mission she can't fail… But forging a friendship with the father is a tactical error that could compromise her first solo assignment. Yet the deepening bond between them is almost impossible to resist…

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)

The Song of Copper Creek by Kristen Mckendry (Blog Tour Review & #Giveaway)


I loved this author's last book, The Governess, that I read last year and have been so
excited for this one, which  I loved as well. Read my review and enter the giveaway below...

The Song of Copper Creek
by Kristen Mckendry
LDS Fiction, Women's Fiction, Christian Fiction
Paperback & ebook, 226 Pages
July 3rd 2017 by Covenant Communications

Summary

It's been more than a year since she lost her family - a tragedy that has left Grace Whitaker a shadow of her former self. Unable to move on surrounded by so many memories, she makes the desperate decision to return to her childhood home in Port Dover, Ontario, Canada. There she hopes to salvage the broken pieces of her life - but what she finds is the promise of peace and healing in an unlikely place.

Copper Creek Farm is part of a Canadian historical museum, offering glimpses into 19th-century pioneer life. Yet the farm offers much more than that - it is a place of second chances. For Grace, the opportunity to work the land alongside the loving Whelan family is the first step toward healing. But she isn't the only broken soul seeking hope on the farm. Grace is joined by a young man in trouble with the law, as well as the Whelans' son and grandchildren, who are struggling through their own heartbreak. Together, these survivors discover the strength that can be found in friendship. But when faced with the uncertainty of the future, will they have the courage to move beyond the past to forge new lives for themselves?

(Affiliate links included - I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using my links.)