I Can't Wait for... The British Booksellers by Kristy Cambron (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #booktwitter #newbooks #histfic #histrom #christfic #splittime


Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here 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. Find out more here.

Like a lot of us bibliophiles, I love the look and sound of any book that includes a bookshop in its pages. This one includes two, and is from an author I've enjoyed before. It's my pick this week...

The British Booksellers
By Kristy Cambron
Christian Historical Romance, Split-Time
Paperback, Audiobook & eBook, 384 Pages
April 9, 2024 by Thomas Nelson

Summary

Inspired by real accounts of the Forgotten Blitz bombings, The British Booksellers highlights the courage of those whose lives were forever changed by war—and the stories that bind us in the fight for what matters most.

A tenant farmer’s son had no business daring to dream of a future with an earl’s daughter, but that couldn’t keep Amos Darby from his secret friendship with Charlotte Terrington…until the reality of the Great War sobered youthful dreams. Now decades later, he bears the brutal scars of battles fought in the trenches and their futures that were stolen away. His return home doesn’t come with tender reunions, but with the hollow fulfillment of opening a bookshop on his own and retreating as a recluse within its walls.

When the future Earl of Harcourt chose Charlotte to be his wife, she knew she was destined for a loveless match. Though her heart had chosen another long ago, she pledges her future even as her husband goes to war. Twenty-five years later, Charlotte remains a war widow who divides her days between her late husband’s declining estate and operating a quaint Coventry bookshop—Eden Books, lovingly named after her grown daughter. And Amos is nothing more than the rival bookseller across the lane.

As war with Hitler looms, Eden is determined to preserve her father’s legacy. So when an American solicitor arrives threatening a lawsuit that could destroy everything they’ve worked so hard to preserve, mother and daughter prepare to fight back. But with devastation wrought by the Luftwaffe’s local blitz terrorizing the skies, battling bookshops—and lost loves, Amos and Charlotte—must put aside their differences and fight together to help Coventry survive.

From deep in the trenches of the Great War to the storied English countryside and the devastating Coventry Blitz of World War II, The British Booksellers explores the unbreakable bonds that unite us through love, loss, and the enduring solace that can be found between the pages of a book.

- Split timeline: WWI and WWII
- Stand-alone novel
- Book length: 118,000 words
- Includes discussion questions for book clubs

(Affiliate links included.)


Will you be reading this one?

Check out an exclusive interview with the author... Red by Annie Cardi (Interview & #Giveaway) #newbooks #booktwitter #yalit #yabooks @anniecardi @tbrbeyondtours


Welcome to my tour stop! Check out this new release, my
exclusive interview with the author and the giveaway below...

Red
By Annie Cardi
Young Adult Contemporary
Hardcover & ebook, 256 Pages
January 30, 2024 by Union Square & Co.

Summary

A Christian girl is stigmatized by her peers after seeking an abortion in this modern retelling of The Scarlet Letter for the #MeToo era.

Moving to Hawthorne was something Tess and her mom never anticipated, but after Tess’s mom loses her job, it’s their only option. Tess’s grandparents welcome them into their home, but with the condition that Tess and her mom attend church, something Mom isn’t too pleased about. But Tess enjoys the church community, finding a place in youth group and the church choir. Faith fills a void Tess didn’t know she had.

After a very personal decision goes public, Tess faces daily harassment and rejection by her former friends, and singing in the church choir is no longer an option. When she meets some kids in the music room, her only place of solace in the school, who don’t judge her for what’s happened, she learns to find her voice again. Against the backdrop of the Spirit Light Festival, Tess will need to find the strength to speak out if she has any chance of ending a silent cycle of abuse in Hawthorne.

Content Warning: Religious Themes, Abortion, Bullying, Slut Shaming, Trauma, Grooming, Sexual Assault

(Affiliate links included.)

Author Interview

Would you tell us a little more about the main character from RED?

Tess is a smart, sensitive girl who’s coming from a tough situation—her dad has passed away and her mom’s had a hard time financially, so they end up having to move in with Tess’s conservative grandparents. She’s surprised to find a place in the local church youth group and choir, connecting to faith in a way she never expected. But her ideas of who she is and where she fits in are called into question when she makes the decision to get an abortion and people in her community find out. She leans on herself, her personal beliefs, and her musical talent to find her voice again.

What is one thing Tess would say she learned from her experience that she wants to pass on to others?

That people who wish you harm would rather you stay silent. Speaking out means that you can connect with others who might be feeling the same and that you can draw strength from each other. Openness and empathy is the start of real change.

Do you have a favorite one-liner from the book?

“While Chloe, Connor, and Mia whisper excitedly about when they can sign up next for open mic night and how fast they can write more original songs, I listen to the next performers sing about heartbreak and loneliness and love and hope, and I feel like they’re all singing for me.”

What’s one of your hobbies or something we might not know about you and why do you enjoy it?

I never thought of myself as athletic (I actively avoided sports in high school), but I started running when I was in my 20s and found that I really enjoy it. I love that I can head outside to spend time with my own thoughts, challenging myself in little ways, like going a little farther than yesterday or a little faster than the day before. I also love that, if you run a road race like a local 5k or even a major marathon, you’re running the exact same course as the elite runners. It may take me literally twice the amount of time to complete the route as the elites, but it’s still the same race.

What is a book that made you cry, a book that made you laugh and one that made you swoon?

Cry: When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller. It’s a phenomenally written magical intergenerational family story that will absolutely break your heart and put it back together.

Laugh: The Tiffany Aching books by Terry Pratchett. I didn’t read Pratchett for a while because I was so intimidated by the whole Discworld canon and because I tend to read more female-written fantasy books. But the Tiffany Aching series caught me right away—the writing is smart and hilarious and sharp all at once.

Swoon: Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor. A lush YA fantasy star-crossed romance set across time and space. I read it years ago and still feel swoony about it.

What are you working on next?

I’m starting another contemporary YA adaptation that I’m really excited about. The main character is very different from Tess—sharp and flinty and fierce—and I immediately got into her voice.

About the Author


Annie Cardi is the author of The Chance You Won’t Return, which was named a Bank Street College of Education Best Book of the Year for 2015. She holds a MFA in creative writing from Emerson College and a BA from the University of Virginia. Annie lives near Boston with her family and a portrait of a sea captain.


Tour Schedule

Follow the tour HERE.

Tour-Wide Giveaway

1 person will win a finished copy of Red (US Only)!

The giveaway will run from January 22nd until February 2nd.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What connected with you in the interview? Have you read the classic The Scarlet Letter? Does this sound like a book you'd enjoy reading?

Q&A with the author... Recipe for a Charmed Life by Rachel Linden (Interview) #newbooks #booktwitter #womensfiction #romancebooks @BerkleyRomance @BerkleyPub


Welcome to my tour stop with Berkley! I read this author's book, The Enlightenment of Bees, a while back and enjoyed it. Today I'm thrilled to get to share an interview with the author provided by the publisher. Check that out below...

Recipe for a Charmed Life
By Rachel Linden
Women's Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Magical Realism
Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook & eBook, 384 Pages
January 9, 2024 by Berkley

Summary

After a day of unrivaled disappointments, a promising young chef finds every bite of food suddenly tastes bitter. To save her career, she travels to the Pacific Northwest to reconnect with her estranged mom, and discovers a family legacy she never suspected in this delicious novel from the bestselling author of The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie.

American chef Georgia May Jackson has one goal—to run her own restaurant in Paris. After a grueling decade working in Parisian kitchens, she is on the cusp of success. But in one disastrous night, Georgia loses her sous-chef position, her French boyfriend, and her sense of taste! Renowned for her refined palate and daring use of bold flavors to create remarkable dishes, Georgia is devastated to discover her culinary gift has simply...vanished.

When she receives a surprising invitation from her estranged mother, Georgia flees to a small island near Seattle hoping the visit will help her regain her spark in the kitchen. As she tentatively reconnects with her mom, a free-spirited hippie eager to make up for her past mistakes, Georgia realizes there is something about the enigmatic island she just cannot piece together. Good luck charms start appearing in the oddest places. Her neighbor is a puzzlingly antagonistic (and annoyingly handsome) oyster farmer. And her mom keeps hinting at a mysterious family legacy.

With the clock ticking and time running out to win her dream job in Paris, Georgia begins to unravel some astonishing secrets that make her wonder if the true recipe for a charmed life might look—and taste—very different than she ever imagined.

(Affiliate links included.)

A Conversation with Rachel Linden

Tell us about RECIPE FOR A CHARMED LIFE. What inspired you to write this novel?

This is the story of Georgia May Jackson, an up-and-coming American chef in Paris who, in one disastrous night, loses her sous chef position, her French boyfriend and her sense of taste! When she receives an unexpected invitation from her estranged mother, she flees to a beautiful remote island in the Pacific Northwest to reconnect with her mom and try to regain her spark in the kitchen. Georgia’s story is filled with food, forgiveness and second chances at love and family, a touch of magic and a whole lot of hope! And gorgeous settings in Paris and San Juan Island in Washington State. Also there’s a handsome, grumpy oyster farmer she can’t quite seem to keep away from…

I was inspired to write this novel because I wanted to explore themes of forgiveness, specifically how do we forgive people we love when they hurt us? And how do we forgive ourselves when we mess up? I also wanted to touch on identity, finding our purpose in life, and holding space in our lives for wonder and delight. This story reminds me of a macaron. It looks pretty and yummy on the outside, but there’s a surprisingly chewy, rich center as these character’s journey to find forgiveness and their purpose in life!

Julia Child, recognized for introducing French cuisine to the American public through her cookbooks and subsequent TV programs, is integral to Georgia’s character—Julia serves as Georgia’s inspiration for becoming a chef, as well as a source of wisdom in her times of need. Tell us about your connection to Julia child. Why did you decide to make Julia Child Georgia’s culinary hero?

I find Julia Child so inspiring because she was such a warm and cheerfully practical person. She was accepting and encouraging while also inspiring millions to achieve something new. I chose to feature Julia as fictional character in this story because she is able to give advice and encouragement in such a warm and witty way. Millions of people loved and learned from Julia Child, so it was fun to bring her into this story in a creative way and let her act as Georgia’s patron saint in the kitchen.

How has food inspired your writing? Have you ever had a meal that like Georgia’s power, provided you with clarity?

I grew up in an Italian-American family where food is central to the life of the family. The kitchen and the table are the heart of the home. A lot of our most precious times as a family happen over a meal– good conversation, important decisions, hashing out all sorts of things. So while I’ve never had a meal that gave me such clarity because of the food I was eating, I’ve definitely enjoyed many meals where I came away with great food for thought, clarity, or encouragement because of the conversations that happened around the table with those I love. And to me those are just as valuable as any touch of magic in a meal!

Both THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE and RECIPE FOR A CHARMED LIFE are equal parts women’s fiction, romance and magical realism. What drew you to magical realism (as a genre)? What about the genre do you find helpful or necessary in writing your novels?

I love to use a touch of magical realism to highlight important truths and emotional growth arcs in my stories. So much personal growth, healing and connection can happen when we open ourselves up to the transcendence and wonder that are present in each of our lives. I love to leave space in stories for the mystery and the unexplainable in life. I’m a person with a deep personal spirituality, and I don’t believe that we know everything about life and humanity and the world around us. I love to tap into that sense of awe and wonder as a way for my characters to grow and discover in their own journeys.

What kind of research was required to write this book? What did you find most surprising throughout the course of your research?

I enjoyed some truly delicious research in Paris and on San Juan Island for this story! In Paris I sampled probably more than my fair share of macarons from Laduree and enjoyed being back in the city, walking around with fresh eyes, gaining valuable details for the story. Paris is always such a delight!

My husband’s family has a family home on San Juan Island, so every summer we go visit as a family and enjoy the wonderful island vibe. It’s such a special, unique place, and I’m excited to share it with readers! One of the most interesting parts of my research for this book was visiting several local oyster farms in the Pacific Northwest and learning about oyster farming. It’s a really wonderful, ecologically friendly system that benefits the entire coastal ecosystem. And of course I had to sample local oysters which were so creamy, fresh and delicious!

What did you find most challenging about writing this novel? What was most rewarding?

Honestly, the most challenging thing about writing this novel was what was going on in my life as I was writing it! I wrote this book during a nine months span of time during which my husband endured multiple major surgeries, some of them unplanned. It was a tough year for our family. I spent many months juggling caring for him, navigating parenting our kids, running the house, and writing this story! It was a tough year for our whole family, but I’m proud of the story that came out of it. Now my husband has recovered fully and I am really enjoying a more normal life – and writing schedule- this year!

The most rewarding thing about writing the novel was getting to take readers to two of my favorite places in the world – Paris and San Juan Island in the Pacific Northwest. I also loved getting to delve into more delicious food for this book, and I absolutely loved seeing Georgia and Star’s relationship as mother and daughter reach a place of hope, forgiveness and healing. Many of us have complicated family dynamics, and I loved getting to explore some of these dynamics in an honest yet hopeful way.

What do you hope readers will take away from RECIPE FOR A CHARMED LIFE?

At its heart, RECIPE FOR A CHARMED LIFE is a story about forgiveness and about how to pursue happiness, love and purpose after failure. It touches on the truth that often the unexpected setbacks and surprises we encounter in our lives are the very things that lead us to a truly satisfying life, one full of forgiveness, meaning and joy. I hope readers enjoy this story and close the last page feeling encouraged in their own identity, purpose in life and connection to those they love. And I hope that each one of us is able to practice a little more forgiveness, of ourselves and of those around us.

About the Author


Rachel Linden is a novelist and international aid worker. Rachel lives with her family on an island in the Pacific Northwest, where she enjoys creating stories about hope, courage, and connection, with a hint of romance and a touch of whimsy.

Photo Credit: Mallory MacDonald


Is this on your list to read or have you read any of her other books? What connected with you in the interview?

A unique story set during WWII... The Foxhole Victory Tour by Amy Lynn Green (Review) #thefoxholevictorytour #historicafiction #ww2fiction #inspirationalfiction #newbooks #booktwitter #bethanyhousefiction #AmyLynnGreen @Bethany_House @austenprose


Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review of this new release below...

The Foxhole Victory Tour: A Novel
By Amy Lynn Green
Historical Fiction, WWII Fiction, Inspirational Fiction
Paperback, Audiobook & eBook, 400 Pages
January 23, 2024 by Bethany House Publishers 

Summary

Based on true World War II stories of life in the USO variety shows, worlds collide when performers from around the United States come together to tour North Africa.

Vibrant and scrappy Maggie McCleod tried not to get fired from her wartime orchestra, but her sharp tongue landed her in trouble, so an overseas adventure with the USO's camp show promises a chance at a fresh start. Wealthy and elegant Catherine Duquette signs with the USO to leave behind her restrictive life of privilege and to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of the handsome pilot whose letters mysteriously stopped arriving.

The two women are joined by an eclectic group of performers--a scheming blues singer, a veteran tap dancer, and a brooding magician--but the harmony among their troupe is short-lived when their tour manager announces he will soon recommend one of them for a coveted job in the Hollywood spotlight. Each of the five members has a reason to want the contract, and they'll do whatever is necessary to claim it. As their troupe travels closer to the dangerous battlefront in Tunisia, personal crises and wartime dangers only intensify, putting not only their careers but also their lives on the line.

Praise for the Book

"Green deserves a standing ovation for her rousing story of unlikely friendships, courage over comfort, and the impactful work of USO performers during WWII. The Foxhole Victory Tour transports readers from the concert halls of Minnesota to the coasts of Casablanca to the active war zone of Tunisia. It is plot-driven without sacrificing relational drama, and its ragtag supporting cast of lovable misfits thoughtfully portrays the art and heart of live performance."— Booklist

5-STARS “I was impressed with how much Green was able to pack into the story and still keep it cohesive and natural. I ended up loving all the characters and their story arc, and I'm looking forward to reading more of Green's work.”— Debra, Goodreads

“The Foxhole Victory Tour is a wonderful story of historical fiction with great characters, vivid descriptions, and some tough truths that will make readers reflect on their choices and their priorities.”— Jordon Lynch, The Literary Library

“This story was full of emotion and captivating on every page. The setting of World War II is so real, you feel like you are with them. This is must-read. A story you won't put down and will be sad to say goodbye to after it's over.”— Elizabeth Eckmeyer, Interviews & Reviews

(Affiliate links included.)

My Review

THE FOXHOLE VICTORY TOUR is a unique story about a troupe of performers who travel through foreign countries as they entertain the US troops during WWII. The characters are diverse with accurate depictions of the time and immersive descriptions of the places these characters travel as they entertain. There are light aspects of faith, friendship, romance and danger weaved throughout as their story is told. An engaging and endearing historical.

I found both the main characters, Catherine and Maggie, to be likable narrators for this group of entertainers during WWII. Maggie tended to sabotage herself by being outspoken and breaking the rules, but it fit her background and personality. I also can easily relate to her stance on things and her sarcasm. Catherine was almost polar opposite as she was shy and more tentative growing up with very overbearing parents. They both had their own reasons for being in the group. I enjoyed seeing their characters develop over the course of their travels and how they come into their own by the end.

The story moves at a steady pace with a few mildly climatic parts weaved throughout and reads a bit like an historical recounting. With so many different personalities among these characters with different backgrounds, it took a while for them to become a cohesive group. They're tested by competition, some danger from traveling through war-torn areas, and expectations. There's some character development, which is always enjoyable. There was also some resolution to the challenges to their dreams, or at least to the choice these two women want to have in deciding their future. I found this aspect of history to be interesting, especially as it's the first book I've read about a troupe like this. The ending was sweet without being too perfectly tied up, which I appreciated.

There were a few things I would have liked to have been changed or I found a bit unexpected. I felt the two POV voices between Catherine and Maggie needed to be more developed. For much of the time it was hard to tell between the two characters until one of their names were given. I would have loved for each of their voices to be more unique and consistent with their characters. The unexpected aspect of this story that rubbed me wrong a bit was that I expected this to be an inspiring story of characters rising to the occasion to help as they could in difficult circumstances. There is definitely some of that, but all those in the troupe join for more selfish or personal reasons. This is also very apparent as they compete for a coveted position after their three-month stint in the group. There's a bit of drama and sabotage that feeds distrust of each other that I didn't really enjoy. Much of it was them being pitted against each other and them rising, or more accurately falling, to the occasion for a good part of the story.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an overall enjoyable read with endearing characters and an interesting story. It's not an aspect of WWII that is overly written about, so it's a unique perspective of the time period. Definitely recommended to historical fiction reads.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author


Amy Lynn Green is a lifelong lover of books, history, and library cards. She worked in publishing for six years before writing her first historical fiction novel. She and her husband live in Minnesota, where she teaches virtual classes on marketing at writer’s conferences, engages with book clubs, and regularly encourages established and aspiring authors in their publication journeys.



Have you read any books with USO entertainers? What appeals to you about this story?

I Can't Wait for... An Inconvenient Letter by Julie Wright (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #booktwitter #newbooks #regencyromance #romancebooks #cleanreads #histfic #properromance @ProperRomance @ShadowMountn


Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here 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. Find out more here.

I hope this line of books never runs out of stories from these authors as I can always trust that they'll produce an enjoyable read. This one sounds like it's going to be very fun with the fake relationship trope. It's my pick this week...

An Inconvenient Letter
(A Proper Romance Regency)
By Julie Wright
Historical Romance, Clean & Wholesome Romance
Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook & eBook, 256 Pages
March 5, 2024 by Shadow Mountain

Summary

Complications arise when Marietta's secret love letters are accidentally found by the wrong man.

1828, the London countryside

For years, Marietta Stone has harbored a secret infatuation for the handsome Frederick Finch and has poured out her deepest feelings in a series of passionate love letters that she keeps in a locked drawer. But when Marietta's private letters are accidentally delivered to Frederick's house, she must retrieve them immediately before they fall into the wrong hands. If the letters were read by anyone else, the resulting scandal could jeopardize her reputation.

Gerard Hartwell has no time for infatuations, courtship, or even love. He must find a wife with a substantial inheritance if he wishes to save his late father's bankrupt estate. When he accidentally discovers Marietta's love letters at his cousin Frederick's estate, he strikes a bargain with her. If she helps him court her older sister, Anne, he will return the letters and help Marietta win Frederick's heart.

Marietta agrees, and the two quickly pretend to be courting in order to spend time with their individual love interests. Yet, what appeared to be a straightforward bargain becomes complicated when Gerard realizes that the more time he spends with Marietta, the more he wishes he could court her for real. But can he persuade Marietta to give him a chance when her heart might belong to another man?

(Affiliate links included.)


Will you be reading this one?

Read an excerpt from this contemporary romance... Slightly Delayed and Somewhat Haphazard by Amber Laura (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #newbooks #booktwitter #romancebooks #romcom @xpressotours


I'm joining in this blitz to share about this contemporary
romance. Read an excerpt and enter the giveaway below...

Slightly Delayed and Somewhat Haphazard
By Amber Laura
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & eBook, 284 Pages
November 16th 2023

Summary

Miranda Monroe’s world just imploded. Not only did she just get dumped by her long-time boyfriend, but she got dumped in the most humiliatingly painful way imaginable. Very suddenly single, homeless, and heartbroken, she runs to the only person she knows will always be there for her.

Sam Church. Her best friend (and the man she’d once secretly been madly in love with).

Which is how she finds herself, emotionally spent and financially crippled, somehow agreeing to his outrageous offer: that she move into his guest bedroom. Temporarily, of course. Just until she gets back on her feet.

There’s only one problem. In the midst of mending her shattered heart, in the process of trying to find herself again (just who is Miranda Monroe?), her thoughts keep getting distracted, wandering in the most confusing and forbidden of ways…just down the hall from her.

Which is ludicrous. The most commitment-phobic person she’s ever met, Sam is off-limits to Miranda for all kinds of reasons. But mostly, because he’s her best friend—and she loves him too much to lose him. So why, suddenly, can’t she seem to stop fantasizing about him? Why can’t she stop hoping for something more?

Slightly Delayed and Somewhat Haphazard is a best-friends-to-lovers romantic comedy underscored with notes of healing fiction and the echoing sentiments of an adult coming-of-age novel.

(Affiliate link included.)


Excerpt

The story was outlandish.

At turns, both unbelievable and absurdly awful.

All the same, the story was true.

Leaning forward in her chair, her body braced as if for impact, Miranda Monroe watched as her words sank in. She canvassed the face before her. The high cheekbones tautening, those green eyes narrowing, clouding with confusion, with disbelief as they stared so questioningly back at her.

Waiting, Miranda carefully studied the face of Sam Church.

Her best friend and emotional benefactor. Her anchor.

He looked… gobsmacked, she decided. That was only to be expected. She turned her attention to the cocktail glass in front of her next; it was bleeding with condensation. Absently, Miranda stirred the quickly melting ice—but it was a lost cause. Especially since she had no intention of actually drinking her drink.

Probably should have been an odd choice, then, for her to end up at The Oasis Bar and Grill.

“That doesn’t—what are you talking about?”

Miranda smirked fatalistically as she peeked back up at Sam. “You know, I think those may have been my first words as well.”

“Noel got married.” His voice was incredulous.

“Mm. Yes. To Kourtney.”

“In New Hampshire?” He repeated.

“While on a business trip,” Miranda reminded him through numbed lips. All the same, the ache in her stomach intensified, restricted her breathing as she forced herself to relive the horror of those words again.

“Apparently,” she added, for good measure, “it seems that for the first time in his life, Noel decided to make an exceptionally grand gesture.”

Marry one woman while still dating (while still living with) another woman.

“Are you—are you okay?” A stupid question, to be sure, but Miranda couldn’t blame Sam for asking it. It was a hard situation for knowing what to say.

….

It was supposed to be her.

Miranda was supposed to be the one marrying Noel. (Granted, he hadn’t technically asked but it had been an unspoken though long-expected part of their future.) Four years; that’s how long they’d been together. Pictures of them dotted the walls and shelves of their apartment—a perfectly happy couple smiling back at the camera. Furniture they’d agonized over and purchased together filled every nook and cranny of the place—marking it theirs and theirs alone.

And then, in one instant, an instant in which she’d had no say, they simply, they simply weren’t dating anymore. She was left alone. He was left with someone else’s ring on his finger.

Tears misted Miranda’s eyes. A few slipped past her lids, inking down her face. She brushed them away impatiently, sniffed the rest back in place.

He’d never let on. Never let on that he’d fallen in love with his co-worker. Miranda’s teeth ground together as a picture of Kourtney floated before her eyes. Long, willowy frame; stylishly arranged dark hair always draped just so over her shoulder; large oval eyes with an open, honest face. The snake.

Miranda had liked Kourtney. She’d welcomed her into their home. Into their social circle. Stupid fool that she was, she’d thought nothing of her and Noel’s inside jokes or shared smiles. She’d chalked it up to professional camaraderie. Frankly, she’d enjoyed not having to listen to his lengthy stories about this client or that one—she’d enjoyed the reprieve from acronyms and talk of policies and procedures she knew nothing about. She’d been happy to let them carry on without her.

She just hadn’t realized then what that meant.

(This excerpt is an abridged version of what appears in the book.)


About the Author

7 Fun Facts about Amber Laura:

1. If there’s creamer, I’m drinking coffee. And when I edit, there’s always creamer.

2. I do my best daydreaming on long car rides.

3. Some of my favorite stories came as follow-up answers to the question: “What if…?”

4. I’m the mother of a darling (if slightly overweight), 16-year-old cat. She’s kind of my mascot.

5. One of my favorite parts of writing is inventing new places—or traveling to spaces where I’ve not actually been. It’s magical and never disappointing.

6. Writing may be a solitary process, but then the characters always keep me company.

7. I’ve never quite figured out if I like to write by plot or the seat of my pants.

8. (Because I write, I don’t math.) When a scene isn’t coming together on a piece of writing, or a string of dialogue is falling flat, I like to close my eyes and picture the whole thing as though it were being acted out on a movie screen—and forty minutes later, I usually wake up!

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Does this sound like a book you'd enjoy? What did you think of the excerpt?

Read an excerpt from this new release... The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton by Susan L. Tuttle (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #newbooks #booktwitter #womensfiction #mystery #christianromance @justreadtours

The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to my tour stop with JustRead Publicity Tours! I'm sharing an
excerpt from this new release. Read that and enter the tour giveaway below...

The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton
The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton
(The Treasures of Halstead Manor #1)
By Susan L. Tuttle
Women's Fiction, Christian Romantic Suspense
Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 304 Pages
January 16, 2024 by Kregel 

Summary

In her search for a rare gem, will Everleigh end up uncovering the true treasure of her heart? 

Personal care nurse Everleigh Wheaton knows it only takes a few well-placed lies to ruin a reputation. She's experienced it time and time again. But there's a silver lining to repeatedly proving herself: she's confident and self-reliant. 

When she loses yet another job and an enigmatic stranger offers her a potential way out, she's game. After all, she loves a good mystery, and an invitation to visit the legendary Halstead Manor is irresistible. But she's not about to let her guard down--especially with the other women who received the same invitation. 

A strange voice on the phone tells them he's gathered the three of them to work together as treasure hunters. The first assignment requires Everleigh to be a traveling nurse for retired FBI agent Gertrude Levine, who has one cold case she just can't let go of: the Florentine diamond that went missing when the Austrian Empire fell. 

With Everleigh's keen ability to solve puzzles, Natalie Daughtry's vast knowledge of history, and Brooke Sumner's connections to the antiques world, they're bound to track down the diamond. Except that Gertie's nephew, Niles Butler, doesn't trust Everleigh's innocent act . . . even if he finds himself falling for her. Worse, Everleigh's walls of self-preservation may doom the entire team. 

Hints of real-life historical events combined with contemporary characters make this first book in the Treasures of Halstead Manor series a masterful blend of romance, mystery, and strong female friendships. Readers of authors like Denise Hunter and Nicole Deese who enjoy unfolding relationships and the organic discovery of God's love will relish this new series.

(Affiliate links included.)

Excerpt

As Everleigh left her second stop, her eyes snagged on a vehicle in her rearview that raised her suspicion. By the time she pulled away from her apartment, that suspicion was confirmed. Someone was following her. The same silver sedan had been on her tail since she’d pulled out of Kroger. If she had her guess, Palmer had sent someone to watch her. Might as well find out if she was right.

Spotting a strip mall ahead anchored by a coffee shop, Everleigh pulled into the lot. She joined the drive-through line and ordered a toffee nut latte—might as well enjoy the excuse for a midday pick-me- up. The sedan had parked at the far side of the lot, providing whoever sat behind the wheel with a perfect view of the exit. The way they’d parked, however, prevented them from seeing the end of the drive-through line.

Everleigh swung around and approached the sedan slowly. If she thought about it too long, common sense could nix her impulse. Instead, she gunned it, parking at an angle with her passenger door practically touching their front bumper. Taking off her sunglasses, she met the surprised gaze of the person who’d been following her.

“You!”

(ch 6, page 48)

About the Author

Susan L Tuttle

Susan L. Tuttle is a pastor's wife, mom, and the director of women's ministry at her church near Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her previous work includes the Count on Love series, and the Carol Award finalist Love You, Truly.

Connect with Susan by visiting susanltuttle.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Tour Schedule

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

Tour-Wide Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed, print copy of The Rare Jewel of Everleigh Wheaton + book-themed goodies!

Full tour schedule linked above. The giveaway begins at midnight January 15, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on January 22, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

Do you read romantic suspense? What do you like about the sound of this one or the excerpt?

The Lily of Ludgate Hill by Mimi Matthews (Review) #newbooks #booktwitter #thelilyofludgatehill #historicalromance #mimimatthews #austenprosepr @MimiMatthewsEsq @BerkleyRomance @Austenprose


Welcome to my tour stop! This was another delightful read in this series. Find my full review below...

The Lily of Ludgate Hill
(Belles of London #3)
By Mimi Matthews
Historical Romance, Historical Fiction
Paperback, Audiobook & eBook, 432 Pages
January 16, 2024 by Berkley Romance

Summary

A BookBub Best Romance of Winter 2024!

Fortune favors the bold—but is a confirmed spinster daring enough to loosen the reins and accept a favor from the wicked gentleman who haunts her dreams?


Lady Anne Deveril doesn’t spook easily. A woman of lofty social standing known for her glacial beauty and starchy opinions, she’s the unofficial leader of her small group of equestriennes. Since her mother’s devastating plunge into mourning six years ago, Anne voluntarily renounced any fanciful notions of love and marriage. And yet, when fate puts Anne back into the entirely too enticing path of Mr. Felix Hartford, she’s tempted to run…right into his arms.

No one understands why Lady Anne withdrew into the shadows of society, Hart least of all. The youthful torch he once held for her has long since cooled. Or so he keeps telling himself. But now Anne needs a favor to help a friend. Hart will play along with her little ruse—on the condition that Anne attend a holiday house party at his grandfather’s country estate. No more mourning clothes. No more barriers. Only the two of them, unrequited feelings at last laid bare.

Finally free to gallop out on her own, Anne makes the tantalizing discovery that beneath the roguish exterior of her not-so-white knight is a man with hidden depths, scorching passions—and a tender heart.

Praise for the Book

“It is truly a wonder how Matthews can consistently craft fresh romances featuring unique, multidimensional characters who face huge obstacles to their relationships. [A] lovely story of secrets and love lost and found.”— Booklist (starred review)

“Sparkling…Historical romance fans are sure to be moved.”— Publishers Weekly

“Matthews delivers another richly detailed and emotionally tender closed-door romance.”— Kirkus Reviews

“An engaging series installment offering a second chance at love to a spunky heroine and a hero with hidden depths.”— Library Journal

“No one writes Victorian romance like Mimi Matthews, and her Belles of London series just keeps getting better! "— Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author

“Mimi is truly a national treasure. All of her books are filled with such delicious chemistry and heart, and her writing is superb. This one is another winner. Highly recommend.”—Isabel Ibañez, #1 New York Times bestselling author of What the River Knows

(Affiliate links included.)

My Review

THE LILY OF LUDGATE HILL is another delightful book in this series. Readers will enjoy the immersive setting, likable characters, and story lush with humor, friendship, family and romance. Another highly recommended read from Mimi Matthews!

There is palpable chemistry that literally jumps off the page from the very beginning, where readers are first fully introduced to the main characters Anne and Hart, which continues throughout this book. I found both these characters and the romance to be entertaining and my favorite aspects of this story, as they should be. Anne is stuck between fear of losing her mother and trying to support her, and wanting to live her own life with her friends. She has faced loss and is facing additional hardship that she must navigate while also trying to figure out how she feels about Hart. Hart is also in a bit of a tough spot trying to keep a family secret, financially support himself and others while maintaining his fun-loving shield, and win Anne's heart. They both pose striking figures, and possess sharp whit and an innate sense of responsibility. However, they don't completely see each other clearly, which causes roadblocks in the way of their happiness. This makes for a frustrating, but entertaining, path to their happily-ever-after. I must mention the newspaper columns that literally made me laugh out loud, among other tactics that Hart uses to win Anne over. They were so much fun while also completely tugging on my heart. It's a sweet and somewhat feisty romance and I enjoyed it all.

The story wasn't quite a page-turner, but didn't need to be as it moved at a good pace and held my interest from beginning to end. I enjoyed cameos from other characters in this series, even though each book can be read on its own. The family and friends each had their own roles to play and did so with characters that felt unique and fleshed out. The setting changes from main London society, to a small country town, to a busy, lower part of town and around, with each setting well described and experienced, I also appreciated the way historical mining and the abhorrent conditions particularly using young children, was presented. All the details made the setting come alive, added depth and only enhancing the story. Then there are all the feels that allow for readers to connect with these characters and feel invested in the story, cheering them on to the very end.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This story was full of everything readers have come to expect from a Matthews novel. It was a roller-coaster ride of entertaining characters and romance. I loved every minute.

Content: Some innuendo and suggestive content, with a closed-door scene.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to my reviews.)

About the Author


USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning proper Victorian romances. Her novels have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes a retired Andalusian dressage horse, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.


Victorian Reading Room

Join Mimi at her Victorian Reading Room Facebook Group for exclusive access as she shares her love of writing, historical romance, Victorian fashion, brooding heroes, independent heroines, and of course, her beloved pets!









A lovely Regency romance... Kissing Kate by K. Lyn Smith (Review) #booktwitter #kissingkate #klynsmith #historicalromance #regencyromance #cleanreads #newbooks #davenwoodpress #austenprosepr @KLynSmithAuthor @Austenprose


Welcome to my tour stop! This was such a lovely read. Find my review below...

Kissing Kate
(Hearts of Cornwall #4)
By K. Lyn Smith
Historical Romance, Regency Romance
Paperback & eBook, 306 Pages
January 23, 2024 by Davenwood Press

Summary

“Benedick Kimbrell attempted to steal his first kiss from Miss Catherine Parker in the perfectly imperfect spring of 1808. But his hopes, then and since, were larger than fact.”

A LADY’S UNSPOKEN LONGING


Kate Parker is resolute in her quest for marriage, seeking a dependable match among Newford's eligible bachelors. But behind her composed demeanor, Kate’s heart holds a stubborn affection for her less-than-dependable friend and an unspoken longing for a kiss that was never claimed.

A ROGUE’S LOST AMBITION

Years ago, Ben Kimbrell harbored ambitions, chief among them a kiss from Miss Kate Parker. Fate, though, had other plans. Now, his heart is weighted by family tragedy, his pain concealed behind a carefree charm. His reputation as an aimless rogue is well-earned, but beneath the façade lies a man who yearns for more.

AND A HEART WELL-GUARDED

When Kate sets her sights on Ben's dependable cousin, a man who fits her expectations if not her heart, Ben can no longer stand idly by. His efforts to save her from a loveless match find the two of them paired together in a village production of Much Ado About Nothing. Tasked with crafting the enchanting sets for their town's inaugural performance, their undeniable affection finds the perfect stage to blossom.

But for their love to flourish, Ben must reveal his true self and confront the shadows of his past. Can he find the courage to unlock his heart before it's too late?

Kissing Kate is a heartwarming best-friends romance about finding the courage to choose happiness and the healing power of love. Set in the charming seaside village of Newford, each book in the Hearts of Cornwall series stands alone.

Praise for the Book

“I really enjoyed this book, and absolutely recommend it to historical romance readers who are looking for a “Hallmark” style read that offers real depth of character, beautiful Cornwall scenery, and a warm prosaic style.”— Bobbie Jo Fersten, Reading Historical Romance

“A sweet installment in the Hearts of Cornwall Series… I loved the progression of their feelings as they deepened from friendship to romance…This was my first read by K. Lyn Smith and I would pick up more!”— Genesis Aleman, Geny Reads

“The growth of Kate and Ben is so much fun to watch, and I enjoyed the entire construct of them getting ready to perform a play for their town along with the cousins and friends…Kissing Kate is such a warm hug of a read! I recommend it.”— Michelle, Tales Untangled

(Affiliate links included.)

My Review

KISSING KATE is a story about two friends who lost their hearts to each other when they were children but don't admit such nor see a future together. They have their own plans, but fate and a meddling cousin or two challenge those. It's a story with great characters, including a whole slue of extended family, set in a quaint Cornwall town amidst the town's first theatrical performance. An overall lovely Regency romance.

I enjoyed getting to know these characters. I could tell there were some backstories for some of the couples I was missing as this is the fourth book in the series, but this very much stood on its own. I will have to go and read the other books to find out how the other romances came about. Kate is very sweet and proper and maybe a bit one dimensional at first. However, she really comes alive in the second half of the book when she has some epiphanies. Ben is a bit of a flippant, rogue of a gentleman on the surface, but I could tell that he genuinely cared for Kate and his family from the start. He just didn't know the direction his life was going and if he could trust himself. Kate and Ben together brought plenty of teasing, sweet dialogue, friendship and a few romantically tense moments that I thoroughly enjoyed. I also enjoyed how everything played out with a few notable side characters and plot lines that added to the story. The ending is especially sweet.

I did feel there were places the story dragged, a few phrases overly used fairly close together, a few places of redundancy, and a few places where the story got sidetracked too much. None were anything major. More where some additional editing would have been helpful. I also would have liked the small-town setting and some of the characters more developed. Those would be my only criticisms.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was honestly a lovely read. Likable characters, a cute town setting, a bit of Shakespeare, and a sweet romance. An enjoyable read from beginning to end.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the tour host/NetGalley, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate links.)

About the Author


K. Lyn Smith lives in Birmingham, Alabama, where she writes sweet historical romance about ordinary people finding extraordinary love. Her debut novel, The Astronomer’s Obsession, was a finalist for the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award, while many of her other titles have been shortlisted for awards such as the American Writing Award, the Carolyn Reader’s Choice Award, the HOLT Medallion, and the Maggie Award.

When she’s not reading or writing, you can find her with family, traveling and watching period dramas. And space documentaries. Weird, right?


Author Interview

K. Lyn shares her inspiration for the story and characters in Kissing Kate, the research process, and Regency era theater productions. Read the full interview here.


Have you read any of the other books in this series? What's your favorite thing about reading Regency romances?

I Can't Wait for... Love, Unscripted by Denise Hunter (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #booktwitter #newbooks #romancebooks #cleanreads


Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here 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. Find out more here.

This author always has fabulous characters and heartfelt stories. Her newest is my pick this week...

Love, Unscripted
By Denise Hunter
Contemporary Romance
Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook & eBook, 304 Pages
March 12, 2024 by Thomas Nelson

Summary

The perfect boyfriend only exists on paper…doesn’t he?

Fresh off the heels of a bad breakup, Chloe Anderson poured her heart into penning the perfect boyfriend—and the result was an off-the-charts debut beach read that resonated with women worldwide. Now, Chloe’s scripted hero is headed for Hollywood, with her book destined to become a major motion picture.

When Chloe gets wind that silver screen bad boy Liam Hamilton has been cast as the ideal-in-every-way hero of her novel, she’s horrified by the film director’s choice. How could a player like Liam possibly do Chloe’s perfect hero justice? Unafraid to speak her mind, Chloe lets her executive producer know she’s one hundred percent opposed to the casting. And oops—the call is on speakerphone, where the annoyingly attractive Hollywood star hears Chloe’s unbridled outrage firsthand.

With Liam’s reputation already on the rocks, his agent concocts a PR plan to upgrade Liam’s image while putting the story—and the film—in the spotlight. The catch? During the movie’s filming in Chloe’s cute hometown of Stillwater, North Carolina, Chloe and Liam will fake a wholesome, committed relationship. Both stand to gain something from the arrangement. Liam’s fans will see him in a new light, while Chloe can boost her struggling social media following and further her writing career. What could possibly go wrong?

As author and actor navigate the waters of the PR relationship, they’re unpre­pared when their professional agreement turns into an actual friendship. And when serious sparks start to fly—well, that’s an unread chapter for both of them.

(Affiliate links included.)
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Will you be reading this one?