An immersive YA fantasy... Illuminary by Chawna Schroeder (Review & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #yalit #yabooks #fantasy #illuminary #chawnaschroeder #thesceptreandthestylus #christfic @celebrate_lit

Welcome to my tour stop! Check out this new YA fantasy and my review below...

Illuminary

(The Sceptre & the Stylus #1)

By Chawna Schroeder

Christian YA Fantasy inspired by A Little Princess

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 368 Pages

April 8, 2025 by Enclave Escape

Summary

Glimpse the past, illuminate the future.

Yosarai Patican dreams of becoming an illuminator in a country that values art above all else. A lofty goal that finally seems within reach when she earns a position at the prestigious Academy of the Seven

Arts. Although Yosarai loathes to leave behind her quiet country life, she travels to the capital, determined to live up to her mother’s fame asone of Indel’s greatest artists.

Prince Xander never planned to become king. Indeed, he never wanted to become king. But when his father dies suddenly, he is thrust into the middle of coronation preparations—and assassination attempts. With everyone around him in increasing danger, Xander decides to hide in neighboring Indel until the time for him to be crowned king arrives.

Posing as an inventor struggling with aesthetics, Xander enlists Yosarai’s aid as part of his cover, but soon he suspects she knows more than she should. But when danger threatens and secrets are exposed, entering a competition reputed as cutthroat may be the only way for them to protect everything they hold dear.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

ILLUMINARY is a completely immersive experience into this fantasy world that feels somewhat Persian. The characters are interesting and relatable while the plot grows and develops as the characters do as they face new places and challenges. A story weaved with magic, family, privilege, loss, faith and love.

Opening this book felt like diving into a whole different world. At least for Yosarai's world. It was lush and fragrant. Almost like a textile experience. Her relationships were also full of depth and complexity. Xander's world was a bit more one dimensional as there were only glimpses of it before he traveled to Yosarai's Indel (Yosarai's kingdom). What his storyline had that Yosarai's didn't (at least at first) was consistent danger hunting him. I liked how the author wove their stories together and how everything unfolded. The writing also felt very lush and full which I also really liked as well as this unique twist on a classic. The story is very faith-filled with a god representative of Christianity and its a central part of this story. My hope is that it doesn't take over the series but continues to be woven through in a natural way.

There were a lot of poems, journal entries and such in the story. Those didn't really work for me for how much they were included and how long they were, but some may enjoy this aspect.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an enjoyable story and a series worth following. Recommended to Christian fantasy fans and also some YA fantasy fans.

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

Chawna Schroeder loves exploring the wonder of God through the intersection of imagination and faith. When she isn’t reading or writing, she may be found practicing piano, reading biblical Greek or Hebrew, preparing for the Bible study she teaches, or working onone of her handwork projects while enjoying a movie.

Tour Schedule

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, April 29

Artistic Nobody, April 30 (Author Interview)

CeCe Reads and Sings, April 30

The Lofty Pages, May 1

Wishful Endings, May 2

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 3 (Spotlight)

Simple Harvest Reads, May 3 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 4

Guild Master, May 5 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, May 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 7

Tell Tale Book Reviews, May 8

Inklings and Notions, May 9

Fiction Book Lover, May 10 (Author Interview)

Blogging With Carol, May 11

Labor Not in Vain, May 12

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Chawna is giving away the grand prize of a 2.5” x 9.5” poster of Psalm 46:5 and 10-11 illuminated by artist and calligrapher Timothy Botts, a signed copy of the book, a $25 Amazon gift card, a glass stylus, and 5 bookish stickers!!

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 stories like this one? Do you have any favorite "illuminated" or illustrated books? I have a collection of illustrated classics by N.C. Wyeth along with the illustrated Harry Potter books that I love.

Can't Wait for... Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #battleofthebookstores #alibrady #romcom #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 know that the whole Shop Around the Corner and You've Got Mail has been done and redone as a trope, but I still think it's fun. It's that enemies-to-lovers trope with plenty of cuteness, competition and humor. This twist on the tope looks and sound like it's going to be an enjoyable read. It's my pick this week...

Battle of the Bookstores

By Ali Brady

Contemporary Romance, Romcom

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 432 Pages

June 3, 2025 by Berkley

Summary

Rivalry and romance spark when two bookstore managers who are opposites in every way find themselves competing for the same promotion.

Despite managing bookstores on the same Boston street, Josie Klein and Ryan Lawson have never interacted much—Josie’s store focuses on serious literature, and Ryan’s sells romance only. But when the new owner of both stores decides to combine them, the two are thrust into direct competition. Only one manager will be left standing, decided by who turns the most profit over the summer.

Efficient and detail-oriented Josie instantly clashes with easygoing and disorganized Ryan. Their competing events and contrasting styles lead to more than just frustration—the sparks between them might just set the whole store on fire. Their only solace during this chaos is the friendship they’ve each struck up with an anonymous friend in an online book forum. Little do they know they’re actually chatting with each other.

As their rivalry heats up in real life, their online relationship grows, and when the walls between their stores come tumbling down, Josie and Ryan realize not all’s fair in love and war. And maybe, if they’re lucky, happily ever afters aren’t just for the books.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target

LINKY
Will you be reading this one?

A new romantic suspense... Two Seconds Too Late by Dani Pettrey (Spotlight) #newbooks #bookx #twosecondstoolate #danipettrey #jeopardyfalls #romancebooks #suspense #christfic #christianfiction @celebrate_lit @bethany_house

Welcome to my tour stop! Check out this newest Christian romantic suspense...

Two Seconds Too Late

(Jeopardy Falls #2)

By Dani Pettrey

Christian Romantic Suspense

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages

April 29, 2025 by Bethany House

Summary

A missing woman. Two hit men. When every second counts, who will survive?

In the stark but beautiful wilds of northern New Mexico, a couples’ retreat at a luxury resort turns into a chilling nightmare when a woman vanishes. Skip tracer Riley MacLeod and private investigator Greyson Chadwick pose as a couple to hunt for clues that might reveal the missing woman’s location. Those leads uncover a harrowing truth: They’re not the only ones looking for her. What begins as a normal tracking case turns into a deadly chase when they, too, become the hunted.

As Riley and Greyson work together, their partnership ignites a tumultuous attraction, but Greyson’s secrets prevent him from acting on his feelings for her, and Riley can’t bring herself to fully trust him. Delving deeper into the case, they find themselves fighting not only for justice and the chance at a loving relationship . . . but also for their very survival.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

About the Author

Publishers Weekly and #1 Amazon bestselling author, Dani Pettrey has sold nearly one million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance.

Her novels stand out for their “wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters” (Publishers Weekly), “gripping storyline[s],” (RT Book Reviews), and “sizzling undercurrent of romance” (USA Today).

Dani loves to mentor aspiring and newly-published authors. Seeing them grow and spread their wings is so rewarding. She recently was awarded ACFW’s Mentor of the Year. She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Florida, where she lives with her husband.

Tour Schedule

Book Looks by Lisa, April 23

CeCe Reads and Sings, April 23

The Sacred Line, April 24

Southern Gal Loves to Read, April 24

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 24

Where Faith and Books Meet, April 25

Wishful Endings, April 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 27

Inklings and Notions, April 27

Texas Book-aholic, April 28

For Him and My Family, April 28

Maureen’s Musings, April 29

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 29

Betti Mace, April 30

Bizwings Book Blog, April 30

Leslie’s Library Escape, May 1

Just Your Average reviews, May 1

Blogging With Carol, May 2

Inkwell Inspirations, May 2

Stories By Gina, May 3 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, May 3

Cover Lover Book Review, May 4

Labor Not in Vain, May 4

Holly’s Book Corner, May 5

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, May 5

Lights in a Dark World, May 5

Pause for Tales, May 6

Roads to Everywhere, May 6

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dani is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card, a copy of the book in winner’s choice of eBook or paperback, and a $20 Starbucks gift card!!

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

ENTER HERE

Are you a fan of this genre or author? Do you have a favorite book in either or both?

Can't Wait for... All Roads Lead to Rome by Yamile Saied Méndez (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #AllRoadsLeadtoRome #YamileSaiedMéndez

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 don't remember what grabbed me first about this one. I just know it looked kind of cute and light, which (with my crazy life) I need. I think though that last sentence in the description about heartbreak and then healing through faith and hope (earlier in the description) is what makes me want to read this. I expect there will be humor and romance (of course!) too. It's my pick this week...

All Roads Lead to Rome

By Yamile Saied Méndez

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & eBook, 288 Pages

June 24, 2025 by Kensington Books

Summary

What happens when you fall hard for your fallback? In this luminous love story, a young woman who’s spent years traveling the globe to outrun her own grief faces a momentous decision on her 33rd birthday . . .

A moving story about wanderlust, loss, hope, and the special magic of finding love in unexpected places—at just the right time - for readers of Elena Armas, Emily Henry and Mia Sosa, from the acclaimed author of the Reese Witherspoon YA Book Club Pick Furia.

All Stevie Choi ever wanted was a cozy life in suburbia—a loving husband, adorable kids, a dog. That simple dream shattered into a million pieces when she was only seventeen. She’s spent the years since trying to outrun the pain and make something of herself, if only to prove to her estranged family that she’s happy and successful—even though she’s secretly yearning for another chance at love. If only she believed she deserved it . . .

So, Stevie drowns herself in her job, and in the low season, “dates” new countries, leaving her Utah home-base to circle the globe, from Paris to Cairo to Cabo San Lucas, curating a gorgeous Instagram feed—while spending every New Year alone. Then one frigid January day in Rome she meets Cristian. He would be her perfect match—if they weren’t separated by continents and obligations. Unable to say goodbye, they agree that if they’re both single at seventy, they’ll marry each other if only to have a fun companion to travel with . . . But through the years, their friendship grows into something more, and suddenly it’s up to Stevie to choose happiness . . .

Sparkling with hope, All Roads Lead to Rome soulfully examines all the ways a tender heart can be broken—and how faith in the future—and in oneself—can make it whole again . . .

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target

Will you be reading this one?

An adorable and highly recommended picture book... So-Hee and Lowy by Anna Kang, illustrated by Christopher Weyant (Review) #newbooks #bookx #soheeandlowy #annakang #christopherweyant #kidlit #childrensbooks #picturebook #kidart #kidslit

So-Hee and Lowy

By Anna Kang

Illustrated by Christopher Weyant

Children's Picture Book

Hardcover & eBook, 40 Pages

April 22, 2025 by Two Lions

Summary

From the creators of Theodor Seuss Geisel winner You Are (Not) Small and Christopher Award winner Eraser comes a heartfelt story about the power of friendship.

So-Hee is lonely. She doesn’t have a brother or sister, nor does she have many friends. More than anything, she longs for a pet she can hold and love. The trouble is, she’s allergic to just about everything. When So-Hee meets a snake named Lowy, all at once, her life starts to change in unexpected ways.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target

My Review

SO-HEE AND LOWY is a delightful picture book! Full of colorful and interesting illustrations, concise and easy-to-read text, an adorable heroine and an endearing story makes this a book easy to pick up and read over and over again. Perfect for children and families to enjoy!

Read this if you like:
- Relatable, likable characters
- Easy-to-read, meaningful stories
- Pets and community
- Colorful, engaging illustrations that keep you looking

I honestly loved this picture book so much! So-Hee is so relatable with her vulnerability, feeling lonely and having a struggle with something in her life, in this case allergies. It makes her a perfectly imperfect heroine for kids to immediately connect with. Add to that a pet snake who she's not allergic to and an entertaining story that will leave readers happily inspired, and you have a wonderful book perfect for any family. I smiled the whole way through this story and laughed a few times too. The text was short on some pages, such as only one word, to a sentence on others and those words and the pictures said a lot with just a few things. I also liked that the illustrations drew me in and made me study each page to find more about the story than what the text alone said. I'll definitely be keeping this one on my shelves!

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an absolute delight and perfectly written and illustrated! Highly, highly recommended!

Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Megan Beatie Communications, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author & Illustrator

Anna Kang and Christopher Weyant are the creators of Theodor Seuss Geisel Award winner You Are (Not) Small as well as series titles That’s (Not) Mine, I Am (Not) Scared, We Are (Not) Friends, It Is (Not) Perfect, and This Is (Not) Enough. They also wrote and illustrated Christopher Award winner Eraser and its companion, Marker, in addition to Hudson and Tallulah Take Sides, Can I Tell You a Secret?, and Will You Help Me Fall Asleep?

Christopher’s work can also be seen in The New Yorker and the Boston Globe, and his cartoons are syndicated worldwide.

This husband-and-wife team lives in New Jersey with their two daughters and their dog, Hudson. Visit them at www.annakang.com and www.christopherweyant.com.

What's the last children's picture book you read? Does this sound like a book you'd like to read with your kids or gift to others?

Unexpected love in a small coastal town... Sunrise Reef by Irene Hannon (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #sunrisereef #hopeharbor #irenehannon #revell #romancebooks #cleanreads #christianromance @justreadtours

Welcome to my tour stop on tour with JustRead Publicity Tours!
Read on below for and excerpt and the tour giveaway...

Sunrise Reef

(Hope Harbor #11)

By Irene Hannon

Contemporary Christian Romance

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 352 Pages

April 1, 2025 by Revell 

Summary

Sometimes you have to look beneath the surface to find the treasure within

After years of searching, Bren Ryan has found her place in Hope Harbor. Working as a barista suits her to a T, as does the laid-back vibe of her adopted town. Nothing is lacking in her life--except romance. But that's okay. Men are a complication she doesn't need. 

Buttoned-up CPA Noah Ward isn't looking for love, either, when he arrives in town on a mission to convince his father to move closer to him. And he certainly doesn't intend to fall for the quirky, free-spirited woman who's taken up residence in his father's guest cottage. 

But when Noah finds himself sucked into Bren's quest to help a struggling teen, might the two of them discover there's more to each other than meets the eye? 

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Baker Publishing Group | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Christianbook

Excerpt

pp 11-12

Was something burning?

Bren Ryan stopped reading the instructions on the tube of hair dye in her hand, destined for use
later today, and frowned at her reflection in the bathroom mirror. Sniffed.

A faint acrid odor with a hint of fishiness prickled her nose.

Not quite a burn smell but close. And definitely worth investigating.

Leaving the dye on the vanity, she followed the scent, wincing as another slash of lightning
strobed through the sky outside the window, followed by a boom of bone-­jarring thunder.
Man, this was bizarre weather. Squalls on the Oregon coast were supposed to be confined to the
winter months. They never ushered in August—­especially storms that went on for hours. Besides,
even in the winter, torrential rain and high winds were far more common than lightning and thunder.

Whatever the cause of this uncharacteristic outburst from Mother Nature, it was certainly a
dramatic beginning to her thirtieth birthday.

And perhaps it was also an omen that her decision to create a birthday resolution to-do list and
shake things up a bit during this new decade of her life was sound.

The smell intensified as she approached the kitchen, and she paused on the threshold. Gave the
room a slow scan.

Everything appeared to be normal.

Could the unpleasant odor be coming from outside?

Bren crossed to the window above the sink, pushed it higher than the scant inch she’d left it
cracked, and leaned over. Inhaled.

The air outside was damp but fresh.

This was weird.

She straightened up and swiveled back toward the room.

Where could the smell be—

Wait.

Was that smoke coiling out of the electrical socket at the end of the counter?


© 2025 by Irene Hannon
Published by Revell
a division of Baker Publishing Group
Grand Rapids, Michigan
RevellBooks​.com

Other Books in the Series

About the Author

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 65 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA's elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work.

Connect with Irene by visiting IreneHannon.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Schedule

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

Tour-Wide Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print set of the entire Hope Harbor series!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked above. Giveaway began at midnight April 16, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on April 23, 2025. 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 the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

Have you read any of the other books in this series or by this author? What do you love about books set in coastal towns?

Can't Wait for... Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #capturethemoment #nationalparkssummers #suzannewoodsfisher

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 read this author's books for years and feel like each one gets better and better. This is the start to a new series and, as I'm a national parks lover, I can't wait to read this next month! It's my pick this week...

Capture the Moment

(National Parks Summers #1)

By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Contemporary Romance, Clean & Wholesome

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages

May 6, 2025 by Publisher

Summary

She's ready for adventure--isn't she?

Kate Cunningham is facing the opportunity of a lifetime. As a zoo photographer, she's spent years photographing animals in carefully controlled environments, but now National Geographic has dangled an irresistible prize: If Kate can snag a unique photo of a legendary bear in Grand Teton National Park, they just might publish it. It's the kind of challenge Kate has been waiting for, and she's eager to prove herself in the wild. 

With more enthusiasm than experience, Kate soon realizes that capturing an image of this bear isn't as simple as she hoped. Fortunately, she crosses paths with Grant Cooper, a seasonal park ranger who knows the terrain--and the bears--better than anyone. His tracking skills could be exactly what Kate needs to succeed, and it doesn't hurt that he's easy on the eyes. But they're not the only ones with an interest in the park's most famous bear. And his motives are far from innocent.

A clean, kisses-only contemporary romance and summer read by Suzanne Woods Fisher for wildlife, travel, and photography enthusiasts set in Grand Teton National Park.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

Will you be reading this one?

A delightfully complex historical for Austen fans... Austen at Sea by Natalie Jenner (Review) #newbooks #bookx #austenatsea #nataliejenner #histfic #historicalfiction #austenesque #janeausten #austenprosepr

Austen at Sea

By Natalie Jenner

Historical Fiction, Romance

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 320 Pages

May 6, 2025 by St. Martin's Press

Summary

Two pairs of siblings, devotees of Jane Austen, find their lives transformed by a visit to England and Sir Francis Austen, her last surviving brother and keeper of a long-suppressed, secret legacy.

In Boston, 1865, Charlotte and Henrietta Stevenson, daughters of a Massachusetts Supreme Court Justice, have accomplished as much as women are allowed in those days. Chafing against those restrictions and inspired by the works of Jane Austen, they start a secret correspondence with Sir Francis Austen, her last surviving brother, now in his nineties. He sends them an original letter from his sister and invites them to come visit him in England.

In Philadelphia, Nicholas & Haslett Nelson―bachelor brothers, veterans of the recent Civil War, and rare book dealers―are also in correspondence with Sir Francis Austen, who lures them, too, to England, with the promise of a never-before-seen, rare Austen artifact to be evaluated.

The Stevenson sisters sneak away without a chaperone to sail to England. On their ship are the Nelson brothers, writer Louisa May Alcott, Sara-Beth Gleason―wealthy daughter of a Pennsylvania state senator with her eye on the Nelsons―and, a would-be last-minute chaperone to the Stevenson sisters, Justice Thomas Nash.

It's a voyage and trip that will dramatically change each of their lives in ways that are unforeseen, with the transformative spirit of the love of literature and that of Jane Austen herself.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N

My Review

AUSTEN AT SEA titles this story so well in its reference to the sea voyage these characters undertake, which ends up being the pivotal moment of their lives. It's a story of self-discovery as they travel to meet Jane Austen's elderly brother and the last of her siblings still living. With delightful sisters at the center and a cast of equally wonderful side characters, readers will fall in love. Austen fans will enjoy the many nods to her life and works, with some Dickens and other classic works mentioned as well. There is a depth to this story from the complex relationships to a young nation still forming its laws and the rights of its people, particularly in regards to women and marriage. Highly recommended!

Read this book if you like:

- Jane Austen with references to her books and life

- Strong female relationships

- Familial ties and friendships

- References to classical literature

- Strong female leads

- Book clubs (regardless that its formed with judges)

- Complex and sweet romance for all ages

- Women's rights and references to a young America

I couldn't keep a smile off my face as I read this. I loved these sisters and those around them. These girls! They possess intelligent minds and strong wills, but the world is still not ready for women to take their place and they have an uphill battle. Thank goodness they have plenty on their side willing to support them and push them on. The justices reading circle discussing Austen's works was especially entertaining while equally being insightful. I loved Frances Austen and the melding of hearts for those who loved his sister. I loved reading the author's depiction of Louisa May Alcott as well as other figures and movements of the time. There were so many different dynamics. There's the various families, social standings, English culture and laws, American culture and laws, the end of the Civil War and the assassination of Lincoln, rights of women, and complex romance and expectations. I loved that I wasn't quite sure what was going to happen and if romance would bloom and, if so, with whom. The story itself was consistently paced with some emotional high peaks of sadness, happiness, passion, anger, heartbreak, loss and joy.

Here are a few parts that resonated with me:

"How much strength did the larger world sap from women, in asking those who could afford to do so, to stand idly still in one spot, while rendering the poor transient–if not homeless–for life?"

"Life wasn't at all like the law. There was no logic to the yearning of his heart, hence he could not reason himself out of it. Nash disliked being at the mercy of something he did not understand, much as he was attracted to it. The members of his profession boasted the skill of comprehension above all; they firmly believed that nothing could ever be worded to outsmart them.

But there were no words for how he felt about Charlotte Stevenson. And he couldn't help recalling, with increasing panic, Mr. Knightley's famous statement to Emma upon declaring his own heart:

If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more."

"I'd rather I be the one to get my life wrong."

"Freedom is not about ensuring you get everything you want, but rather becoming the best self that you can be. Therein lies life's great reward for us and for those around us."

I only have a few complaints. One is that there were a few parts that dragged and some insertions in the story that weren't really necessary. Another is that the author would all of a sudden move forward in time and then not disclose what happened in the interim until a few chapters later. To me, it felt jarring and didn't allow the story and characters to continue and as a reader like the author was reaching in and disrupting my enjoyment of the story.

In the end, was it what I wished for? I loved so much about this book! Being an Austen fan, I found all the different discussions about her books and looks into her life and family to be utterly charming. I also adored these two sisters as well as the other side characters to their story. This is definitely a story to pick up if you're also a fan!

Content: Some references to marital and non-marital affairs.

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

Are you an Austen fan and have you read any of this author's books? Have you read any other books with a focus on an author?

A YA fantasy with dragons... Embergold by Rachelle Nelson (Review & Giveaway) #embergold #rachellenelson #newbooks #bookx #yalit #yabooks #fantasy @celebrate_lit @enclavebooks

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

Embergold

By Rachelle Nelson

YA Fantasy

Paperback & eBook, 352 Pages

March 18, 2025 by Enclave Escape 

Summary

Fire dreamed of water, but the first sip would be its last.

Gilde has spent her life isolated in the wild marshlands, a place too wet for the dragon to go. She’s safe there, according to her father. So why is he asking her to leave with him now that she has come of age? There is more to Gilde’s family than she knows, and debts need to be paid.

Betrayed and shattered, she wakes in a crumbling mountain castle with the beast of her nightmares. Except this dragon speaks like a man and reads books. His kindness confuses her and opens a forgotten longing in her heart, all while Gilde plans her escape from a mountain full of secrets.

This place can unveil her past and why she was sacrificed to the beast —truths that may put both their lives in danger if they can’t learn to trust each other. But how can Gilde ever trust again? Especially after she discovers what dragons truly are.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop

My Review

EMBERGOLD is about a girl who finds nothing in her world is as it seems and the boy who lost his humanity to dragon fire. It's about both blood and found family, unusual friendships, magic, danger, an element of faith and some romance. Recommended to fans of Christian fantasy.

It's been a while since I read a book with dragons and this one has an interesting twist that I really like. Plus dragons. The characters are each unique with their own arcs as the story progresses. There is also a bit of grit to the story with some of the situations and side characters. Gilde and Wil are both likable and are easy to cheer on. The romance isn't present until half-way through the story and very slowly builds to more of a focus towards the end. There is also plenty of danger and challenges that these characters have to overcome before they find their happily-ever-after

There were a few things that could have been done better. Some places and the story overall with the world development and fully fleshing out all the different plot points. The faith element also felt a bit forced in. If it would have been worked through more with the world and culture the it would have made more sense.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an overall likable story, especially if you like dragons and romance.

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

About the Author

Rachelle Nelson grew up reading fantasy novels and getting her clothes muddy in the pine forests of Idaho. These days, she still loves hiking through forests and libraries, though she’s a bit less fond of mud. Her debut novel, Sky of Seven Colors, released through Enclave Publishing, and won both the Carol Award and Christy Award. Rachelle doesn’t write true stories, but she does write about truth. When she’s not doing that, she sings in a band with her husband who makes her happier than should be legal. If you like good food and honest conversations, you’re her favorite kind of person.

Find the author here.

Tour Schedule

Fiction Book Lover, April 8 (Author Interview)

CeCe Reads and Sings, April 8

Texas Book-aholic, April 9

MinReads and Reviews, April 9

Wishful Endings, April 10

The Lofty Pages, April 11

Blossoms and Blessings, April 12

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 13

Blogging With Carol, April 14

Tell Tale Book Reviews, April 15

Devoted Steps, April 16

Madi’s Musings, April 17

Labor Not in Vain, April 18

Guild Master, April 19

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 20

Simple Harvest Reads, April 21 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachelle is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card, a hardcover copy of the book, and an envelope of fun goodies, including a signed bookplate and a pewter dragon bookmark!!

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

ENTER HERE

What's the last book you read with dragons? Do you have a favorite show, movie or book with dragons?

Can't Wait for... Rules for Ruin by Mimi Matthews (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #rulesforruin #mimimatthews #crinolineacademy @BerkleyPub#historicalromance #romancebooks #berkleyromance

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 fan of this author over the past couple of years and enjoyed her last series. I'm so excited about this new book that starts off a new series! t's my pick this week...

Rules for Ruin

(The Crinoline Academy #1)

By Mimi Matthews

Historical Romance

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 400 Pages

May 20, 2025 by Berkley

Summary

No one betrays the Academy. But now Euphemia must decide: break the rules for her enemy, or let the rules break her heart.

On the outskirts of London sits a seemingly innocuous institution with a secretive aim—train young women to distract, disrupt, and discredit the patriarchy. Outraged by a powerful lord’s systematic attack on women’s rights in Parliament, the Academy summons its brightest—and most bitter—pupil to infiltrate the odious man’s inner circle. A deal is struck: bring down the viscount, and Miss Euphemia Flite will finally earn her freedom.

But betting shop owner Gabriel Royce has other plans. The viscount is the perfect pawn to insulate Gabriel’s underworld empire from government interference. He’s not about to let some crinoline-clad miss destroy his carefully constructed enterprise—no matter how captivating he finds her threats.

From the rookeries of St. Giles to the ballrooms of Mayfair, Euphemia and Gabriel engage in a battle of wits and wills that’s complicated by a blossoming desire. Soon Euphemia realizes it’s not the broken promises to her Academy sisters she should fear. . . . It’s the danger to her heart.

(Affiliate links included.)

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Will you be reading this one?

Can't Wait for... What Not to do on Vacation by Rachel Magee (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #whatnottodoonvacation #rachelmagee #romancebooks #romcom #cleanreads @TNZFiction

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.

This title was the first thing that grabbed me, followed by the author and then the premise. It sounds like a hilarious read perfect for the beach and it's already making me smile. It's my pick this week...

What Not to do on Vacation

By Rachel Magee

Romcom, Contemporary Romance, Women's Fiction, Clean & Wholesome

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 320 Pages

May 20, 2025 by Thomas Nelson

Summary

Ten Things I Hate About You meets the charm (and sisterly shenanigans!) of Netflix's Nobody Wants This in this slow-burn, fake dating rom-com from the author Kate O'Keeffe says "you can get utterly lost in."

Savannah is on a mission to reconnect the Prestly sisters the best way she knows how: reliving their carefree childhood summers at the beach. She's booked the same beach house, convinced her sisters to take the month off, and even made a bucket list to fit in all their favorite coastal fun. It's going to be perfect . . . or else. (And if planning this trip has anything to do with a certain secret she's hiding . . . well, let's not dwell on that.) Sun, sand, and some sisterly bonding--what could possibly go wrong?

Enter Bianca, the baby of the family, with a huge announcement: she's getting married! And her sisters' reactions are . . . not exactly what she hoped for. But Bianca is on a mission to prove that she's not the mess they think she is. Her grand plan? To find love for Cora, her perpetually single sister, on the same dating app where she found her fiancé. The stakes? A bet that if Cora can't find her 'One' on the app, Bianca will call off her engagement. A challenge Bianca is all too ready to tackle head-on, even if it means a little conniving. Cora's about to get swept off her feet, whether she likes it or not!

Meanwhile, Cora is rolling her eyes so hard they might get stuck. Love is a fairy tale for other people, not her. As she's filling out her dating profile, she thinks--nope, she knows--it'll be easy to show her sisters just how absurd this whole love thing is. So what if this Jax guy Cora just matched with is Hemsworth-brother hot? And, if his messages could be believed, maybe even slightly charming? None of this is real, anyway--love just doesn't come easily Cora. And she's getting ready to prove it. She's got this under control.

(Spoiler alert: nothing is under control.)

What Not to Do on Vacation is a charming and lighthearted rom-com that promises low spice but high laughter. Join our leading ladies as they navigate through beach vibes, dating app drama, fake dating, and a playboy hero with a heart of gold in this modern reimagining of The Taming of the Shrew. A must-read for those who enjoy adorable romance sans the steam, a healthy dose of family drama, and a fair share of humor. So, if you're ready to dip your toes into this sun-kissed, feel-good read, don't wait! For fans of Jenny Hale, Emma St. Clair and Melissa Ferguson.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target

Will you be reading this one?

A delightful western romance... Deal for a Debutante by Kate Condie (Review) #newbooks #bookx #dealforadebutante #bridgerbrothers #katecondie #romancebooks #cleanreads

Deal for a Debutante

(Bridger Brothers #4)

By Kate Condie

Western Romance, Clean & Wholesome

Paperback & eBook, 241 Pages

March 28, 2025

Summary

He is intrigued by her scars. She is wary of his attention. On a trail that steals so many lives, one can never be too careful.

Demi Anderson is looking to reinvent herself out west. With scars that mar half of her face, Demi has spent her life in the shadows. But when she realizes she’s falling in love with her sister’s fiancé, she knows it’s time for change. Heartbroken over a love that was never truly hers, she sets out on the treacherous journey west. Determined to do more than just escape, she wants to learn to talk to a man without her throat seizing up, to have the debut she was denied, and possibly, to feel the thrill of a man’s affection.

Alex Bridger isn’t looking for love– he’s looking for a wife. Practicality and logic guide his every step as he seeks a sturdy partner to help him build a life in the untamed wilderness of Oregon. When he encounters Demi, a stowaway in their wagon company, he quickly judges her as ill-suited for the harsh life ahead. Yet, despite his reservations, he can’t resist the urge to know the woman behind the scars.

But the journey west mocks both their plans. On a trail where danger lurks at every turn, passion can’t afford to dictate decisions. When illness strikes the wagon train, Demi finds herself relying on Alex for survival. Their forced proximity sparks a connection neither is prepared to confront, leaving them both to navigate the treacherous terrain of their hearts as they journey into the unknown.

Return to the trail with Deal for a Debutante, a standalone sweet historical western romance. It can be read alone, or as book 4 in the Bridger Brothers series.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

My Review

DEAL FOR A DEBUTANTE is a story about a girl who only sees her own scars and the man who is drawn to her because of them. It's a story about resilience, self discovery, friendship, family and romance. Definitely recommended to sweet historical romance readers!

Read this book if you like:
- A girl with a bit of spunk and a guy with rugged charm
- Self discovery and character development
- Delightful banter with plenty of laughs and swoons
- Close quarters between two
- Strong family ties

This book was so much fun! The beginning was heartbreaking as was Demi's view of herself, which definitely wasn't helped by the people who only saw her scars and treated her less for them. I loved Demi's spunk to learn to be useful and make her own way in the wagon train to Oregon. Alex is this caring, hard working, ruggedly handsome man who is intrigued by Demi and wants to get to know her. They end up working together which leads to spending time together. There are definitely some obstacles, especially as Demi doesn't feel she's worthy, to them finding their happily-ever-after ending. It's perfectly sweet when it does come.

My only real complaint is that I felt like the story was rushed towards the end. There are some changes that need to be made and it isn't as gradual or as developed as I would have liked it to be, so it felt a bit jarring.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a delightful western romance full of heart, fun, and sweet romance. I thoroughly enjoyed it and plan on reading the next installment.

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

Have you read any other books by this author or in this series? Are you a fan of western romances? Have you read any other books where one of the characters is physically scarred?