Can't Wait for... The Austen Affair by Madeline Bell (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #TheAustenAffair #MadelineBell #romancebooks

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight 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'm pretty much a sucker for anything Austen related and this one sounds like it's going to be a riot. It's my pick this week...

The Austen Affair

By Madeline Bell

Romance, Time Travel

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 336 Pages

September 16,  2025 by St. Martin's Griffin

Summary

Two feuding co-stars in a Jane Austen film adaptation accidentally travel back in time to the Regency Era in this delightfully clever and riotously funny debut

Tess Bright just scored her dream role starring in an adaptation of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. It's not just the role of a lifetime, but it’s also her last chance to prove herself as a serious actress (no easy feat after being fired from her last TV gig) and more importantly, it’s her opportunity to honor her mom, who was the biggest fan of Jane Austen ever. But one thing is standing in Tess’s way—well, one very tall, annoyingly handsome person, actually: Hugh Balfour.

A serious British method actor, Hugh wants nothing to do with Tess (whose Teen Choice Awards somehow don’t quite compare to his BAFTA nominations). Hugh is a type-A, no-nonsense, Royal Academy prodigy, whereas Tess is big-hearted, a little reckless, and admittedly, kind of a mess. But the film needs chemistry—and Tess’s career depends on it.

Sparks fly, but not in the way Tess hoped, when an electrical accident sends the two feuding co-stars back in time to Jane Austen’s era. 200 years in the past with only each other to rely on, Tess and Hugh need to ad-lib their way through the Regency period in order to make it back home, and hopefully not screw up history along the way. But if a certain someone looks particularly dashing in those 19th century breeches…well, Tess won’t be complaining.

A wickedly funny, delightfully charming story, The Austen Affair is a tribute to Jane Austen, second chances, and love across the space-time continuum.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

Will you be reading this one?

A sweet, small-town and best-friends romance... Meant for Me by Betsy St. Amant (Review) #newwbooks #bookx #MeantforMe #MagnoliaBay #BetsyStAmant #romancebooks #christianromance #cleanreads

Meant for Me

(Magnolia Bay #3)

By Betsy St. Amant

Christian Contemporary Romance

Paperback & eBook, 330 Pages

August 11, 2025 by Sunrise Publishing

Summary

He was her best friend. Still is. But when her beloved beignet shop burns down, he’ll have to be more if she hopes to start over. But will friendship survive the dangers of a marriage of convenience?

Lincoln “Linc” Fontenot enjoys working out, running his crawfish business, and the company of approximately three people. Zoey Lakewood has been at the top of that short list for years, the only bit of sunshine he ever allows to part his comfortably cloudy sky. But when Linc’s steady, quiet world is rocked by the unexpected guardianship of a teen girl, his friendship with Zoey becomes even more crucial. He needs help, bad...but maybe not as bad as Zoey.

Zoey’s never had a problem manifesting joy. But having just lost her home and her beignet business to an uninsured fire, for once she struggles to find the silver lining. She and Linc arrange to help each other out—as just friends, of course. She’ll provide teen-parenting assistance while he provides a place for her to get back on her feet. But one thing her friendship with Linc has never had to navigate is close proximity.

Tension—and chemistry—mount as they attempt to manage this sudden insta-family. But Zoey just lost everything, and she can’t risk losing her best friend, too. Will her friendship with Linc go up in flames like her beignet shop? Or will Linc and Zoey finally realize they were meant for each other?

(Affiliate links included. Free on KindleUnlimited.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

MEANT FOR ME is a small-town romance about a guy who pretends to be a bit rough around the edges in order to protect his heart and his best friend who agrees to a marriage-of-convenience to support him as he raises a teenage daughter he didn't know about. It's about friendship, family, learning to trust and believe in yourself, and love. Fans of the genre and this series will love getting to see how this happily-ever-after story turns out!

Read this book if you like:
- ‎Small-town settings with unique characters and charm
- ‎Rough-around-the-edges guys with soft hearts
- ‎Best-friend romances
- ‎Strong friend groups
- ‎Marriages of convenience
- Stories about family, both found and blood
- ‎Themes of worthiness and trust

I enjoyed visiting this small coastal town again and diving into Linc's and Zoey's story. I got to know them both a bit in the last book and knew that they were going to end up together, but I wasn't sure how that would come about. I love best-friends romances because there is already this solid relationship that is becoming something stronger and sweeter. That definitely was the case here. I loved how frank and honest these two were with each other. I also appreciated that the author didn't let them just easily fall in love and everything go smoothly. They had some roadblocks and had to adjust to a different view of their relationship as well as the surprise of a teenage daughter with her own baggage. I also couldn't help falling in love with that daughter and how both Linc and Zoey had to learn to trust in God, each other, and believe they were worthy of a happy ending. There were cameos from previous characters and it was fun to have all the other small-town townspeople chime in and support this small family. There's just something about this type of community that seems to make a story heartfelt.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a sweet and fun read with plenty of feels! I'm looking forward to falling in love with more characters and other places to visit (if we're not coming back here) with this author.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through JustRead Publicity Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

You can read my review of the second book in this series here. Have you read any of the books in this series or by this author?

A fun YA full of heart and horror movies... My Fair Monster by Adrienne Rivera (Review) #newbooks #bookx #MyFairMonster #AdrienneRivera #yalit #yabooks #yaromance #readersgonnaread

Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review below...

My Fair Monster

By Adrienne Rivera

YA Contemporary, Romance

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 384 Pages

August 19, 2025 by Page Street YA 

Summary

As the reigning Miss Teen Indiana, seventeen-year-old Corie Nielson has looks, charm, and her family’s formalwear boutique’s sponsorship. But her real dream is to use that success to become a horror movie scream queen. Except for one small Corie is struggling with ADHD without even realizing it. After missing yet another pageant commitment puts her on shaky ground with her coach, Corie wonders how she can possibly live up to everyone’s expectations, including her own.

When a regional horror host announces a monster costume contest where first place gets a guest appearance on the show featuring the winner’s choice movie and cash prize, Corie knows she’s found a way to prove what she’s capable of. All she has to do is convince a grumpy special effects makeup artist, Everett Robbins, to partner up and turn her into a pageant-worthy monster. But when the contest distracts her from her pageant obligations, Corie must decide which matters pageants—and her promises to her family—or achieving her horror movie dreams?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

MY FAIR MONSTER is one of those books with unique characters and a unique story. It's character development driven with plenty of side characters to bring the story to life. There's also quite a bit of horror movie nostalgia, perfect for fans, but also entertaining for nonfans (like me). Most of all, this story has a lot of family and friend dynamics and is full of so much heart that brought all the feels. Definitely recommended to YA fans!

This is the first time I've read a book so full of pageantry and horror movie references. It made for such a fun read with how the author weaved that all into the plot. I also loved all the costuming and makeup! It was amazing and I would have loved actual illustrations of all of Everett's creations (this would make for such a fun special edition with artwork and pictures). I liked how Corie's character and her relationship with Everett slowly developed. There were some rough moments and some where each character didn't act their best. But that just all allowed room for these characters to grow and figure out what they really wanted. I loved Corie's great-grandma and their relationship. I also loved that there were some good representations in this book from Corie's neurodivergence to different types of families and relationships. The romance was also very sweet and didn't overtake the story. There were some real moments. Some rather heavy, others light and happy. It made for a read that I could escape in and enjoy, but also feel all the emotions.

I think this would have been a 4.5 or 5 star read for me except for a few things. One of them was the way Corie's aunt treated her and that there was never an actual conversation or acknowledgment of just how traumatizing and wrong it was for Corie to be so fully judged and seen in such a negative way. The pageantry environment was also glossed over a bit, although its issues were raised somewhat by Corie's cousin. I also wanted Everett's dads to be a bit more present. They're almost completely off page until towards the end of the book. I also struggled just a bit liking Corie in the beginning, but she does develop quite a bit over the course of this book. I would have liked more discussion about her struggles and diagnosis, since that felt skipped over to me. 

In the end, was it what I wished for? I really enjoyed diving into this world of horror movies and makeup artistry. The characters were endearing and the story made me laugh, cry, feel frustrated and swoon. I also appreciated that it was unique, so I didn't feel like I was reading something I'd read a million times before. This one stands on its own.

Content: Some swearing (some s-words) and crude language.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Toppling Stack Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Adrienne Rivera is a YA author from in Indiana. She has an MFA in fiction from Southern Illinois University. With her first book, she has finally achieved her dream of melding her love of romcoms, horror, and baked potatoes.

Adrienne spends much of her time catering to the whims of an assortment of cats and one bossy yorkiepoo. Her hobbies include board games, cozy video games, and rarely finishing a TV series she starts. You can often find her crying over before and after photos of rescue animals.

She is represented by Natascha Morris at The Tobias Literary Agency. Her first novel, MY FAIR MONSTER, is available August 19th, 2025.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Tour Schedule

Follow the tour here.

Have you read any other books like this? Ones with makeup artists or lots of horror movie mentions?

Can't Wait for... A Dark and Deadly Journey by Julia Kelly (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #ADarkandDeadlyJourney #EvelyneRedfern #JuliaKelly #histfic #mystery

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight 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 love historical mystery with a touch of romance and I've been meaning to dive into this series for a while. This is the third book and I plan on reading the first two in time for this one. Have you read any of this author's books or any of the books in this series?

A Dark and Deadly Journey

(Evelyne Redfern #3)

By Julia Kelly

Historical Fiction, Mystery, Thriller

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 304 Pages

September 23, 2025 by Minotaur Books

Summary

Evelyne Redfern returns in A Dark and Deadly Journey, the next book in international bestselling author Julia Kelly’s captivating historical mystery series.

After being sidelined for a pesky gunshot wound, typist-turned-field agent Evelyne Redfern is ready for her next assignment with Britain’s secretive Special Investigations Unit. When a British Intelligence informant in Portugal mysteriously disappears just after hinting that he has vital information about German plans that could tip the balance of World War Two, Evelyne and her dashingly irksome partner, David Poole, are sent headed to Lisbon to find him.

Once they land, Evelyne and David aren't even able to leave the airport, before she discovers one of their fellow aeroplane passengers murdered and uncovers a diary with a clear link between the victim and their missing informant. With their mission in jeopardy before it can truly begin, Evelyne and David fight to keep their cover intact as they descend deeper into the shadows that surround Lisbon’s glittering collection of wealthy expats and dangerous spies. This case will test Evelyne and David’s training, charm, and wit―and their growing attraction for one another.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

Will you be reading this one?

Escape into a cold Nordic world... Winter's Chill by Morgan L. Busse (Review & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #winterschill #thenordicewars #morganlbusse #fantasy #fiction #romancebooks #christfic

Welcome to my tour stop! Check out my review and the giveaway below...

Winter's Chill

(The Nordic Wars #2)

By Morgan L. Busse

Adult Fantasy, Christian

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 304 Pages

August 5, 2025 by Enclave Publishing

Summary

Fighter. Emissary. Long-Lost Daughter.

Brighid has one mission as she returns to the north: to warn her people of the oath that binds them. But the mountains are treacherous, and snow comes early, leaving her on death’s doorstep—until she has an unexpected encounter that not only reveals a secret about her past, but also brings new allies into her life.

Meanwhile, the healer Kaeden must come to terms with the awakening of his Eldaran power. With winter approaching and the war on hold, he ventures to the White City to uncover his heritage. As he walks the ancient halls of his people’s birthplace, he discovers not all adversaries are across the battle line. He must navigate political opponents while searching for a way to stop those of his kind who have turned to the darkness. Yet even the bitterness of winter cannot keep Brighid and Kaeden apart. A connection has been forged between them, and their bond might be the one thing that could save the Nordic people and end the war.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

WINTER'S CHILL picks right up after the first book in this series, WINTER'S MAIDEN. The main characters continue to face challenges as they try to discovery more about themselves and follow the paths set before them. There is injury, study, friendship, family, war, heartbreak and a blooming romance. Fans of the series and genre will enjoy escaping back into this fantasy world!

Sometimes the second book in a series can be just a place holder and not lend much development to the overall plot. That isn't the case here. The story did slow, but there is quite a bit of character development and a few key points that move the plot forward. I also enjoyed getting to see more of this fantasy world unfold with its different political and social systems.

I liked both the main characters from reading the first book, but I liked them even more in this second book. They both are trying to navigate quite a lot and have continual choices in how they will do so. I loved the whole storyline about Brighid and the bear who comes to her rescue along with the clan that takes her in. I liked how Kaeden's and Brighid's connection to each other also developed and how that came into play towards the end. They are both vulnerable and imperfect, making them easy to relate to and cheer on. The villains are nicely drawn with a few secrets revealed leading into book three. There is also some romance, but it's light and not the center of the story. There is also a bit of action, less than in book one, but I'm sure there will be quite a bit more in the third book. The author excels in her battle scenes, so this was an exciting part of this book.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an enjoyable second book in this series and I'm looking forward to seeing how everything ties up in book three. Definitely a series to grab if you like Nordic or Viking stories with some fantasy that are on the lighter side.

Content: Some violence and torture due to war.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to my review.)

About the Author

Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of multiple series including The Ravenwood Saga and Skyworld series. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist and won the INSPY, Selah, and Carol Award for best in Christian speculative fiction. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.

Find the author here.

More from Morgan

How I Created My Viking-Inspired World

World building. One of the foundational parts of writing a fantasy novel. When I began writing the Nordic Wars series, I wanted a setting that felt like the Viking era but fit the context of the story, to recreate the feel but not copy everything exactly. For example, there are no longboats, sailing, or pillaging. But there are warriors, an emphasis on honor, and the country is in the far north. When I build a world for my books, I use the history and culture of our own world and weave it together with my imagination to create a new realm in which my novel takes place.

Here are some examples of how I built this world.

Places. The country of Nordica is set in the cold north. For inspiration, I used my own home in the Pacific Northwest and my childhood in Montana. From towering mountains to deep snow, to massive forests to valleys of green, Nordica feels like a real place because I used real places to create it.

Words. I studied Nordic words and phrases, then created my own that “sounded” like them. Some examples are the leaders of the clans are called Hjars (after the jarls of Scandinavia), Til Val (a victory shout and chant that I borrowed from the phrase “Til Valhalla” from Norse mythology), and places like Folkvar and Udenhalla (both my own creations). I also found a fantasy name-generating site that helped me craft the names of places and people.

Lastly, I studied the Viking culture itself, including food, furniture, homes, occupations, hairstyles, clothing, etc… Then I used that knowledge for my own creations or drew directly from the source. Even the smallest details were either inspired by my research or a real part of the Viking life.

In the end, when readers step into the Nordic Wars series, I want them to feel like they’ve entered a time from the past, and yet wholly different. I want them to smell the smoke from a firepit, feel the furs across a bed of hay, see the mountains, and feel the bitter cold of winter. And when they finish the book, it feels like they’ve visited a real place.

Tour Schedule

The Lofty Pages, August 9

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 10

For Him and My Family, August 11

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 12 (Spotlight)

Blogging with Carol, August 13

Texas Book-aholic, August 14

By the Book, August 15

Labor Not in Vain, August 16

To Everything There Is A Season, August 17

Wishful Endings, August 18

Simple Harvest Reads, August 19 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Hannahbandanarama, August 20

CeCe Reads and Sings, August 20

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, August 21

Guild Master, August 22 (Author Interview)

Romances of the Cross , August 22

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Morgan is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a hardcover copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

ENTER HERE

Have you read any other Viking or Nordic books with a fantasy twist?

Can't Wait for... A Sea View Christmas by Julie Klassen (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #ASeaViewChristmas #JulieKlassen #romancebooks #christfic #histfic

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight 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've loved this author's books for a long time and particularly have enjoyed this series. I'm looking forward to this Christmas addition. It's my pick this week...

A Sea View Christmas

(On Devonshire Shores)

By Julie Klassen

Christian Historical Romance, Novella

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 240 Pages

September 2, 2025 by Bethany House Publishers

Summary

The holiday stirs up excitement as fondly remembered guests come to stay and acquaintances grow into more. . . .

With a promise to her youngest sister, Sarah Summers declares that this year's Christmas at Sea View will exceed all expectations. But an upcoming trip to Scotland--and the prospect of becoming reacquainted with dashing widower Callum Henshall--blows a flurry of doubts into her mind. Sarah had discouraged his attentions before yet soon finds herself once again torn between attraction and duty as alluring thoughts of a second chance at love weave their way into her practical heart.

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

Spend the holiday season with the Summers sisters on the charming Devonshire coast, where family bonds are strengthened, love is rekindled, and Christmas joy abounds.

Julie Klassen's heartwarming Christmas companion to the On Devonshire Shores series holds themes of friends to more, sisterhood bonds, and matchmaking that will fill you with holiday spirit. This novella can be read separately or along with the series and will appeal to fans of Jane Austen, English Regency romance, and Downtown Abbey.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

Will you be reading this one?

Can't Wait for... We Met Like This by Kasie West (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #WeMetLikeThis #KasieWest #romancebooks

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight 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.

Sorry for not having my book pick ready to go last week. For those who would like to know, my daughter is home from the hospital and doing much better.

I've been a fan of this author and her YA contemporaries since her second release and have met her in person a couple of times as well. She's taking a leap into the adult market with her newest, and I fully believe she'll be just as marvelous with these more mature characters. 

I also want to know what you guys think of this new trend with sprayed edges and special edition books. Do you like them competing with the small businesses who have been doing this for years? Do you love your books stylized like this (I definitely do!). Share your thoughts.

We Met Like This

By Kasie West

Adult Contemporary Romance

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 368 Pages

September 16, 2025 by Saturday Books

Summary

Beloved author Kasie West's sparkling adult rom-com debut about a hopeless romantic falling for the one man she never expected

Can a swipe right turn into swept away?

Margot Hart is a hopeless romantic. That’s why she wants to be a literary agent—to help bring romance books to the world. It’s also why she hates dating apps with all her romance loving soul. She wants her own love story to be just as much fun as the books she reads—a mixed up coffee order, a mistaken identity. She’s not going to tell the story that she swiped right on future husband’s shirtless pic for the rest of her life.

The problem is that her most consistent relationship over the last several years is with Oliver, a guy she keeps rematching with on the apps. They’ve only been on one date and it was a disaster…well, until the make out session in the car before parting ways. But, she keeps reminding herself, a make out session does not a relationship make. And so there will not be a date two regardless of how witty their app banter is.

When Margot gets fired from her job on the same day she meets Oliver again, her life becomes a veritable shit show. Her dream career is dying right before her eyes, and Oliver thinks she’s interested in only one thing: a repeat of the hot make out session they had three years ago so she can get him out of her system. And maybe that is all she wants from him, because she and Oliver are definitely not compatible—he doesn’t hit the snooze button, he runs five miles every morning, he reads nonfiction, and worst of all, she didn’t meet him in cute way! But in her scramble to keep her dream career alive, by opening her own agency, Oliver is there with his golden retriever energy, more steady and helpful than any man she’s ever dated. Just when she thinks she’s overcome her app bias, she realizes that maybe it’s not her who’s holding back, but him. And his reasons are more than she bargained for.

Kasie West's romantic and sexy adult debut is full of witty banter, meet cutes gone awry and, ultimately, true love.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

Will you be reading this one?

Can't-Wait Wednesday #CWW #WOW #bookx

 

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight 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.

My daughter is currently in the hospital so I won't be sharing a book this week or have a linky, but wanted you guys to be able to still share. Leave your link in comments. I'll be back with a book next week!

Can't Wait for... Hemlock & Silver by T. Kingfisher (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #HemlockandSilver #TKingfisher #fantasy #fairytale #retelling

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight 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've become a huge fan of T. Kingfisher over the past couple of years. She's a fantastic writer and her stories are so compelling and unique. Her upcoming release is my pick this week...

Hemlock & Silver

By T. Kingfisher

Fantasy, Folklore, Fairytale Retelling

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 368 Pages

August 19, 2025 by Tor Books

Summary

DELUXE EDITION―a gorgeous hardcover edition featuring bright green sprayed edges, a foil stamp on the casing, and custom endpapers illustrated by the author.

From New York Times bestselling and Hugo Award-winning author T. Kingfisher comes Hemlock & Silver, a dark reimagining of “Snow White” steeped in poison, intrigue, and treason of the most magical kind

Healer Anja regularly drinks poison.

Not to die, but to save―seeking cures for those everyone else has given up on.

But a summons from the King interrupts her quiet, herb-obsessed life. His daughter, Snow, is dying, and he hopes Anja’s unorthodox methods can save her.

Aided by a taciturn guard, a narcissistic cat, and a passion for the scientific method, Anja rushes to treat Snow, but nothing seems to work. That is, until she finds a secret world, hidden inside a magic mirror. This dark realm may hold the key to what is making Snow sick.

Or it might be the thing that kills them all.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

Will you be reading this one?

Can't Wait for... The Blonde Who Came in from the Cold by Ally Carter (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #theblondewhocameinfromthecold #blondeidentity #allycarter #suspense #mystery #romancebooks

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight 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've been a fan of Ally Carter for fooorrrreeeevvvvveerrrrrrr. My Gallagher Girls and Heist Society books are so read and reread that they're starting to fall apart. Her plots are superb and I adore her characters!! I haven't yet read the book before this one, but own a signed copy and am planning on reading it before the summer is over and then reading this one soon after. I love all things spies and romcom, so I'm hoping to fall in love with her adult novels too. It's my pick this week...

The Blonde Who Came in from the Cold

(Blonde Identity #2)

By Ally Carter

Contemporary Romantic Comedy, Action & Adventure

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 336 Pages

August 5, 2025 by Avon

Summary

An action-packed, second-chance rom-com about two rival spies who must join forces in order to stay alive, from New York Times bestselling author Ally Carter.

Ten years ago, they joined the CIA.

Six years ago, he left the game.

Five years ago, they fell in love.

One year ago, she ran out into the cold with absolutely no intention of ever coming back.

And two minutes ago, they woke up, bloody and bruised and handcuffed together in the dark.

They don’t know where they are. They don’t know how they got there. And they have absolutely no idea who is after them or what this nameless, faceless villain wants.

The only thing that’s clear is that, after ten years of covers and chemistry, secrets and lies, these two rival spies have been sucked into their greatest mission yet, and now they’re going to have to team up to stay alive. (If they don’t kill each other first.)

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

Will you be reading this one?

Another delightful Gothic mystery in this series... The Secrets of Thorndale Manor by Syrie James (Review) #newbooks #bookx #histfic #gothic #romancebooks #cleanromance #cleanreads #TheSecretsofThorndaleManor #theaudacioussisterhoodofsmokeandfire #syriejames #dragonblade #austenprosepr

The Secrets of Thorndale Manor

(The Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke & Fire #2)

By Syrie James

Historical Romantic Suspense, Cozy Mystery 

Paperback & eBook, 364 Pages

June 28, 2025 by Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.

Summary

She risks everything for the truth.
He guards secrets that could tear them apart.

When Athena Taylor opens the Darkmoor Bridge School for Girls at the grand and storied Thorndale Manor, she hopes for a new beginning. But the estate’s dark past quickly resurfaces when a maid is found dead under suspicious circumstances—and whispers stir of a murder committed nine years earlier, a crime for which Ian Vernon’s sister was convicted.

Athena believes the two cases are connected. Ian Vernon, Thorndale’s brooding former heir, insists she’s wrong—and warns her to leave the past buried. But Athena is as fearless as she is determined, and her investigation brings her into close quarters with the man who should be her adversary… yet soon proves to be something much more.

As secrets unravel and a killer grows desperate, Athena finds herself in terrifying danger, caught between the pursuit of justice and a powerful attraction that threatens to derail everything.

Tropes you’ll love:
✔ Victorian gothic mystery
✔ Woman sleuth / heroine with a mission
✔ Brooding former heir
✔ Enemies to lovers
✔ Forbidden attraction
✔ Murder and family secrets
✔ Slow-burn historical romance

A richly atmospheric mystery layered with romance, betrayal, and the dark undercurrents of a house built on secrets.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

THE SECRETS OF THORNDALE MANOR is a romantic mystery about a young woman who was hanged for murder and a more recent death of a maid. The heroine has a strong sense that things aren't as they've been laid out and seeks to find the truth, even when doing so puts herself and those around her in danger. The story includes themes of sisterhood, second chances, betrayal, friendship, and love. Likable characters with a slowly building romance, a country school of girls, and a lightly suspenseful plot that climaxes in the end make for an entertaining read.

I loved jumping back into this series and getting to know the previous book's heroine's two sisters! Please note that you do not need to have read the previous book to enjoy this one. I loved the setting being a girls' school with two sisters running it. They were a delight! I liked how they had their own personalities, strengths, fears, and supported each other. Athena does get a bit carried away and dramatic in her pursuit of the truth in places, but she's a character who came across as organic and relatable. I also thought the small town setting with the different classes and prejudices were accurately portrayed and also easily immersed me in this world. My favorite part was the romance. It felt organic as it grew, floundered, and blossomed. There were some deliciously swoon-worthy moments as well. I also appreciated that it didn't overtake the story. The mystery still took center stage and grew more suspenseful as the villain got ever more desperate. My heart definitely had some scary moments.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a cozy historical mystery with delightful characters and a sweet romance. I'm looking forward to reading the next sister's story!

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

You can find my review of the first book in this series, The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall, here. Are you a fan of historical romantic cozy mysteries? Have you read any of this author's other books or other books in this genre that you'd recommend?

A twist on history steampunk style... Flight of Fate by Tricia Goyer & Nathan Goyer (Spotlight) #FlightofFate #TheClockworkChronicles #TriciaGoyer #NathanGoyer #newbooks #bookx #steampunk #alternatehistory #scifi #christfic @Celebrate_Lit

Welcome to my tour stop! Check out the second book in this series,

with a note from the authors, and enter the tour giveaway below...

Flight of Fate

(The Clockwork Chronicles #2)

By Tricia Goyer & Nathan Goyer

Historical Fiction, Steampunk, Alternate History, SciFi

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 336 Pages

June 10, 2025 by Enclave Publishing

Summary

When destined for destruction, fate must be challenged.

Curator Dante Ramono must remove the priceless Farnese Cup from its hidden vault in the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli to protect it from Allied bombing. A swift betrayal places the cup in Nazi hands, but not before it reveals its mystical powers. To recover the cup, Dante must join forces with cunning Theodora. Can he trust her, or will he be deceived once more?

In Prague, Kateřina Dubová works to care for the Jews she’s hidden. In her hour of greatest need, her trusted friend, Josef, has seemingly vanished. Danger closes in, yet an unseen protector steps in again and again. Could it be Josef, hidden in the shadows?

The clock is ticking. Is the future set in stone, or can courage and faith change history? Together, these four unlikely guardians must defy the odds to stop the Germans’ dark ambitions or risk their very souls.

Betrayal, sacrifice, and destiny collide as unlikely heroes race to save a world at war from the power of a mystical relic.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

More from Tricia and Nathan:

Mafia in World War II? This One Fact Changed the Plot of Our Book

By Tricia Goyer and Nathan Goyer

Some discoveries in research are expected. You dig, and you find what you’re looking for. Others? Well, they blindside you. Sort of like a speeding Vespa on a crowded Italian street.

That’s what happened when Nathan and I were deep in research for Flight of Fate. I was already thrilled about weaving real history into our novel—especially the story of the Naples Museum during World War II and the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. (Yes, the very volcano that buried Pompeii in AD 79.) Turns out, this volcano wasn’t done causing trouble.) But what I didn’t expect was how one innocent question would change our entire book.

The Question That Changed Everything

I had been gathering all sorts of juicy details from my online friend Raffael Romano. Raffaele is an expert on Naples history, and he runs his own tour company. (If you ever want to explore Italy without leaving your couch, check out Naples Grand Tour—you won’t regret it!)

After an information-packed interview, I asked, “So, is there anything we didn’t ask about that we should?”

Raffaele paused. Then, as casually as if he were offering me an extra scoop of gelato, he said:

“You haven’t asked about the mafia.”

Excuse me, what?!

Yes, the Mafia Had a Secret Role in WWII

Up until that moment, I had been focused on mystical artifacts, Nazi theft, stolen artwork, and volcanic chaos. But suddenly, my brain was spinning in a whole new direction.

Because, yes—while American and British forces were battling the Axis in Italy, there was another power at play in the shadows.

The Sicilian Mafia (known as Cosa Nostra) had been suppressed under Mussolini’s fascist rule in the 1920s and ’30s. However, when Allied forces invaded Sicily in 1943, something surprising happened: the Mafia made a comeback. And not just any comeback—a strategic, calculated one.

The U.S. military, scrambling for allies on the ground, reportedly turned to some rather unusual sources for help. Enter Mafia boss Charles “Lucky” Luciano—yes, the American Mafia kingpin, who was conveniently in a New York prison at the time. In exchange for some leniency, he allegedly used his underworld connections to help Allied intelligence secure Sicily.

Meanwhile, in Naples—where part of our story takes place—the Mafia was alive and well. And they weren’t just smuggling black-market goods or running gambling rings—they were also influencing who had control of their country. (Hint: the Germans may got the boot outta the Boot!)

And Just Like That, A Different Story Emerged!

With this new information, our fictional world suddenly cracked wide open. How could we tie the Mafia into the world of ancient legends and steampunk warfare? Are they good? Evil? Somewhere in-between? We could twist those scenarios into tales of sacrifice and duty we had already explored in Breath of Bones. There were lots of directions we could go, and boy did we go!

This is Why We Love History

This is what we love about writing historical fiction. It’s like stepping into a time machine and realizing that real history is so much bigger than we imagined. Stories we think we know—like the Allied liberation of Italy—have so many hidden layers. Layers of ordinary people making impossible choices. Layers of forgotten heroes … and unexpected villains.

And, sometimes, layers of the Mafia.

So, the next time you watch a WWII movie and wonder, could the Mafia really have played a role in this?—the answer might just be yes. (And don’t worry. We’re not giving away too much of the plot by sharing this!)

Now, I’m curious—have you ever learned a historical fact that completely surprised you? Drop a comment, and let’s chat! And if you love history as much as I do, be sure to check out Naples Grand Tour for a deep dive into Italy’s incredible past! Tell Raffelo that Nathan and I send you and said, “Chao!” Also, be sure to check out Book One, Breath of Bones!

Other Books in the Series

(Linked to Amazon affiliate link.)

About the Authors

Tricia Goyer is a celebrated writer, speaker, and co-host of the Daily Bible Podcast. Author of 80 books, Tricia has won four Golden Scrolls, two Carols, and a Christian Book Award. In addition to Christy and Gold Medallion nominations, her book sales exceed 4 million copies. Tricia is a highly sought-after conference speaker, sharing on writing, parenting, and purposeful living. Tricia’s most recent work, The Clockwork Chronicles, is a historical steampunk fantasy trilogy co-authored with her son, Nathan Goyer.

Nathan Goyer is an upstart designer and science fiction author who has been writing since he was young. He has written the novel Bask: City of Shadows and solo-developed the mobile RPG game Heedless, which has surpassed 30,000 downloads. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas Little Rock, he is now pushing forward with new endeavors, starting with his latest series, The Clockwork Chronicles, co-authored with his mother, Tricia Goyer.

Tour Schedule

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, June 30

Simple Harvest Reads, July 1 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, July 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 2

Texas Book-aholic, July 3

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 4 (Spotlight)

For Him and My Family, July 5

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 6

The Lofty Pages, July 7

Blossoms and Blessings, July 8

Book Looks by Lisa, July 9

Artistic Nobody, July 10 (Author Interview)

Wishful Endings, July 10

Lily’s Corner, July 11

Bizwings Book Blog, July 12

Life on Chickadee Lane, July 13

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Nathan and Tricia are giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a hardcover copy of Breath of Bones and Flight of Fate!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

ENTER HERE

Have you read any other alternate reality or steampunk stories?

Can't Wait for... Fateless by Julie Kagawa (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #fateless #juliekagawa #yalit #yabooks #fantasy

Can't-Wait Wednesday  is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight 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'm always excited to see what new series Julie Kagawa will start and this one sounds like it'll be another thrilling journey in a new fantasy world. It's my pick this week...

Fateless

By Julie Kagawa

Young Adult Fantasy

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 400 Pages

July 15, 2025 by HarperCollins

Summary

Deep in the forgotten city of the Deathless Kings, an ancient relic of untold power waits—for one bold enough to steal it.

When seventeen-year-old Sparrow joined the Thieves Guild she made a vow of binding loyalty to their cause. So when a mission comes along from The Circle, a group of mysterious, dangerous beings who control the Thieves Guild from the shadows, Sparrow is determined to cement her place in the guild.

What ensues is a death-defying adventure that has Sparrow and her band of thieves venturing into the heart of the forgotten city of the Deathless King. The fate of Sparrow, her companions, and Raithe, the enigmatic yet alluring assassin Sparrow is forced to join forces with during their quest, all hang in the balance as they find themselves battling ancient forces within the tombs and facing the unwavering hold of fate.

Perfect for fans of Alexandra Bracken and Sabaa Tahir, this new fantasy trilogy from New York Times bestselling author Julie Kagawa will sweep readers into a bold and exciting new world, where a twisted game of destiny has far-reaching consequences.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

Will you be reading this one?

A western retelling of a fairy tale... To Love a Beast by Karen Witemeyer (Review & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #histfic #christfic #romancebooks #christianromance #fairytale #retelling #ToLoveaBeast #OnceUponaTimeinTexas #KarenWitemeyer @celebrate_lit

Welcome to my tour stop! This author's last series were based on fairy tales as is

this first book in her new series. Find my review and the tour giveaway below...

To Love a Beast

(Once Upon a Time in Texas #1)

By Karen Witemeyer

Christian Historical Romance, Western, Fairy Tale Retelling

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 217 Pages

June 3, 2025 by Hope & Light Publishing

Summary

Beauty & the Beast in 1800's Texas.

Once known among New York's elite as the American Adonis, Everett Griffin now lives as a recluse in the wilds of Texas. The treachery of a former admirer left his face and his spirit riddled with scars, so he hides himself away, his only companions a trio of trusted servants and an oversized dog. Locals whisper of the beastly man who lives in the gloomy manor outside of town and his tendency to attack anyone who dares approach. Everett relishes his fearsome reputation and uses it as a shield to guard his privacy. Until a young woman as stubborn as she is beautiful infiltrates his sanctum and lays siege to his defenses.

When an injury to her father jeopardizes the family's book binding business, Callista Rosenfeld determines to fulfill the contract herself, and no insufferable client or woman-eating dog will deter her. Finding unlikely allies among Mr. Griffin's staff, Callista secures her position and sets to work transforming the manor's remarkable library. Her employer transforms as well, his ill-tempered growls subsiding to reveal a considerate, intellectual nature. Affection blooms as Callista and Everett discover hidden depths in each other, but the evil schemes of a vengeful hunter threaten to leave their love and their lives in tatters.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

TO LOVE A BEAST is about a woman trying to fulfill a business obligation with her father injured and unable to, and the man she works for who society shunned who hides himself away. The story follows the overall arch of the original fairy tale while the author also makes this her own with some key differences and a few twists and turns. Christian readers should enjoy this retelling of Beauty and the Beast set in historical Texas.

I've been a fan of this author and fairy tales for a very long time. I enjoyed If the Boot Fits, also a fairy tale retelling from this author, and was hoping for a similar experience with this book. I thought the plot with its differences to the original fairy tale were very created and interesting, the author making this story her own. The characters were also sweet and likable with their own complexities. The secondary characters were delightful as well. For me, this one just didn't resonate. I felt like the characters and story needed more depth. Some things were over-the-top and too radical, making things feel fake and unbelievable. I also wanted a better villain, one who was smarter and more complex instead of feeling one dimensional. Regardless, this was still a sweet read.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This story fell a bit flat for me, but fans of the genre and author who are looking for a light, fluffy read with a strong religious aspect may enjoy this one.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Voted #1 Readers’ Favorite Christian Historical Author of 2023 by Family Fiction Magazine, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Karen’s books have won numerous awards, including the prestigious Christy Award, Carol Award, and National Reader’s Choice Award. Karen is an avid cross-stitcher, and makes her home in Abilene, Texas with her husband. Learn more about Karen and her books at her website.

More from Karen

Having Fun with Character Names

I was a college student when the Disney animated adaptation of Beauty and the Beast released, and it instantly became my favorite fairy tale of all time. As a bookish young woman myself, I found Belle so relatable, and the rest of the cast delighted me as well. Throughout my Texas Ever After series and continuing with this new Once Upon a Time in Texas series, I’ve enjoyed paying homage to the Disney characters who inspired my western retellings. To Love a Beast is no different.

Let’s start with our beastly hero, Everett Griffin. The name Everett means “wild boar” and a griffin is a mythological beast with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle. Quite fitting for our Beast. Next is the lovely Callista Rosenfeld, a book binder and novel lover. Callista means “most beautiful,” perfect for our Beauty. Rosenfeld references the enchanted rose that plays such a key role in the fairy tale plot.

Next, we have our supporting cast. Mrs. Potter is our motherly housekeeper who invites Callista to tea on a regular basis. Our stuffy butler playing the role of Cogsworth is Mr. Timens. Notice the TIME in his name that pays homage to the clock-faced Disney character. Everett’s valet and best friend is Ray Lightfoot, who’s name plays with the candlestick image with both his first and last name.

I love having fun with my character names and giving them additional story meaning. You’ll find more Beauty and the Beast Easter eggs in my story as well. Those elements make the story so fun to write, and I hope you will find it incredibly fun to read as well.

Happy Reading!

~Karen

Tour Schedule

Maureen’s Musings, June 27

Melissa’s Bookshelf, June 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 28

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 28

The Important Things in Life: God, Books, & Chocolate , June 28

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 29

Inspired by Fiction, June 29

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions , June 30

Where Faith and Books Meet, June 30

Devoted Steps, July 1

Sylvan Reads, July 1

She Lives To Read, July 1

Texas Book-aholic, July 2

Blossoms and Blessings, July 2

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 3

Blogging With Carol, July 3

Stories By Gina, July 4 (Author Interview)

Labor Not in Vain, July 4

For Him and My Family, July 5

Holly’s Book Corner , July 5

Jeanette’s Thoughts, July 6

Jodie Wolfe, July 6

The Lit Lady, July 7

Wishful Endings, July 7

Bizwings Book Blog, July 8

Life on Chickadee Lane, July 8

Books You Can Feel Good About, July 9

Mary Hake, July 9

To Everything There Is A Season, July 10

Life Love Writing, July 10

Min Reads and Reviews, July 10

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize of an eBook copy of the book and Beauty & the Beast themed goodies!!Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. 

ENTER HERE

Have you read any other Beauty and the Beast retellings that you enjoyed?