Book Review: Wyoming Wild by Sarah M. Eden

Wyoming Wild by Sarah M. Eden

Book Description:

Hearts collide when a sheriff’s daughter asks a hardened US Marshal to join her fight for justice and rid a small town of her corrupt father.

Wyoming Territory, 1876

US Marshal John “Hawk” Hawking is one of the most respected lawmen in the West, so when a telegram arrives from the small town of Sand Creek warning him of a death threat against him, he immediately begins an investigation.

Posing as a farmer, Hawk heads to Sand Creek, a town ruled by a violent and corrupt sheriff. Only one person is trying to stop him—Liesl, the sheriff’s own daughter. When she meets the self-assured and attractive new farmer, John, she hopes he might help her in the fight for justice.

John is completely unfazed by Sheriff Hodges’s attempts at intimidation, and Liesl is quickly swept up by Hawk’s courage and integrity. Just as quickly, Hawk finds himself falling for Liesl’s strength and bravery, as well as her grace and beauty.

When Liesl discovers John’s true identity, she feels betrayed. Despite her lingering distrust of him, Liesl agrees to work with him to enact a dangerous plan that will put the criminals away forever. Liesl must put her life, and her heart, in the hands of his lawman if she has any hope of saving her family and her town.

Andrea's Review:

I love when likable and/or intriguing supporting characters get their own books, so Wyoming Wild made my day. It was fun to learn more about Hawk and to have new characters added to those we love in Savage Wells (assuming you’ve read The Sheriffs of Savage Wells and Healing Hearts). 

Not only was there a sweet romance but there was action and suspense as the main characters were teamed up in support of justice. I liked how it kept me guessing. 

It was a little hard to read all the “ain’t”s and similar words, but they felt true to the characters. One thing happened near the end that had me wondering if I’d missed a page, but on the whole it was a very enjoyable story.

Rorie's Review:

A visit to Savage Wells was long overdue for me, so I jumped at the chance to read this story (even though it doesn't all take place in Savage Wells.) Liesl is my hero! Even though it was her father who was the scoundrel, she risked everything to help out her fellow townfolk whenever she could. Such an inspiring example of doing the right thing even when it's not at all easy. 

All of my favorite Savage Wells characters played a part in this story - something I love about all of this author's series. This is a standalone story, but you would get a lot more out of it if you read the previous books in the series first.  

I highly recommend this story.

Title: Wyoming Wild
Author: Sarah M. Eden
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: March 2023
ISBN: 9781639930920
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Book Review: Miss Newbury's List by Megan Walker

Book Description:

Before Rosalind weds, she wants to experience ten things. Meeting Charlie wasn’t on her list.

England, 1820

Rosalind Newbury is counting down the days until her wedding to the Duke of Marlow, a man she has only met twice, and she knows exactly how she wants to spend her time. As a child, Ros created a list of ten things to do before her wedding day. So far, she has done none of them.

She is determined to tackle each item, though she’ll have to accomplish them all in secret. After all, a soon-to-be-duchess is not usually allowed to bury treasure in the pasture, eat sweets all day, or learn how to swim. She enlists the help of her best friend, Liza, who brings along her cousin, Charlie, a prodigal son-turned-boxer who has come to the countryside to mend his reputation and learn how to be his father’s heir.

Together, the three of them work to complete the list, and as each item is crossed off, an unlikely friendship blossoms between Ros and Charlie. The more time they spend together, the more Ros falls in love with this imperfect man and his good heart.

With the wedding looming, Ros must decide to either admit her romantic feelings for Charlie and risk her family’s future, or keep her promise to marry the duke and start a new life as a noblewoman.

Rorie's Review:

Have I ever mentioned how grateful I am to have been born in this day and age (and location) where I don't have to marry for status and arranged marriages aren't a thing? Well, if I haven't, then reading this book further cemented my appreciation for the freedoms I have. I can't even imagine marrying someone I not only didn't love, but didn't even know, simply because it would give my family a title. 

Now that that's off my chest, I can get into the meat of the review. Quite simply, I loved this story. The author did a great job at bringing the characters to life, and I could easily see myself getting involved in their crazy schemes. Rosalind, Liza, and Charlie made quite the trio - especially poor Liza as she kept trying in vain to bring the other two to their senses. (I'm glad she wasn't successful, that would have made for a very boring story.)

I love stories with happy endings, but I mostly love the battle to get to the happy ending. This one captured that battle perfectly. Definitely a story I recommend.

Andrea's Review:

There was a lot to like about this story. The premise wasn’t particularly unique (there are plenty of stories where people want to complete their bucket list before a major event like marriage), but it made for an entertaining read. I wasn’t as drawn to Rosalind as I wanted-perhaps because she came across as somewhat immature, but that immaturity did lead to some funny moments as she tried to complete her list. I really liked Charlie.

Title: Miss Newbury's List

Author: Megan Walker

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published: February 2023

ISBN: 1639930523

Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: To Capture His Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen

To Capture His Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen

Book Description:

Seaside, England, 1886

Eva Caldwell is an accomplished and well-known photographer who often works with the local constabulary to assist in documenting crime scenes, which means she also often works alongside the handsome and charming detective, Nathan Winston. She appreciates his intellect and how he treats her like an equal, but Eva's heart is still healing from a past relationship, so, for now, she decides to keep her feelings for Nathan a secret.

One evening, Nathan arrives on her doorstep asking for a personal favor. Would Eva be available to photograph his mother's legendary, week-long dinner party and matchmaking event? The catch is that Eva would also have to pretend they are courting in order for Nathan to avoid the many single women seeking his attention.

Though wary of the charade, Eva agrees. Spending a week with the two things she loves most--her detective and her camera--sounds simple enough. And if she wants to imagine that Nathan's pretend courtship of her is real, well, what's the harm in that?

But when a criminal from Nathan's past threatens revenge on the detective, Nathan must be extra vigilant to keep his mother and the rest of the partygoers safe. He confides in Eva, and as the two work together to solve the mystery and apprehend the criminal, they find that they might capture more than they expected--each other's heart. 

Rorie's Review:

You know those stories that you can just get lost in and can sit and read for hours and hours, not wanting to stop for those pesky real life things that you have to do? Well, this is one of those books. For some reason, I've always gotten a kick out of the "pretending to be in love" trope, but usually the characters don't actually like each other when they start the charade. That Eva and Nathan both secretly liked each other already was a fun twist to the story.

I enjoy a good romance, but definitely appreciate some mystery and suspense thrown in to keep things exciting. This author melds both storylines together masterfully. This is the kind of story that I don't want to end and wish there was more of it. Hopefully Charlotte will be getting her own story soon, so we don't have to leave this world behind for too long.

Andrea's Review:

To Capture His Heart is another great addition to the Proper Romance Series from Shadow Mountain. Allen has created a great group of characters, and it was fun to have the focus on Eva this time. She and Nathan "pretending" to like each other made for an entertaining story, and the mystery kept me on my toes. All of the characters were well-developed, and I couldn't help but be interested in what happened to them. It was a very fast read, and one I can see myself reading again. 

About the Author:

NANCY CAMPBELL ALLEN is the award-winning author of nineteen published novels and several novellas, which encompass a variety of genres, ranging from contemporary romantic suspense to historical fiction. Her most recent books, which include Regency, Victorian, and steampunk romance, are published under Shadow Mountain’s Proper Romance brand, and the What Happens in Venice novella series is part of the Timeless Romance Anthology collection published by Mirror Press. She has presented at numerous conferences and events since her initial publication in 1999.

Her agent is Pamela Pho of D4EO Literary Agency.

Nancy loves to read, write, travel, and research, and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She nurtures a current obsession for true crime podcasts and is a news junkie. She and her husband have three children, and she lives in Ogden, Utah, with her family, one very large Siberian Husky named Thor and an obnoxious but endearing Yorkie-poo named Freya.

Title: To Capture His Heart

Author: Nancy Campbell Allen

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published: October 2022 

ISBN: 1639930515

Source: We received copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book | Barnes & Noble

Review: Hearts of Briarwall by Krista Jensen

Hearts of Briarwall by Krista Jensen

Book Description:

Lydia Wooding is fascinated by the latest inventions the new century brings, including motorcars. She longs for the independence they represent and believes that women should have a say in the future of the industry—just as they should have a say in suffrage, adventure, and, of course, love.

Spencer Hayes is a man of practicality and innovation, but he lacks the financial backing to make his dream a reality. When he contacts his childhood friend, Andrew Wooding, about a promising business venture, he is invited to Briarwall Manor to discuss the terms. Once there, he is surprised to find that Andrew's once shy, younger sister, Lydia, has grown into a young woman of beauty, wit, and a bit of fire. Even better, the two share a passion for motorcars.

Andrew, however, is wary of cars, having lost his parents in a tragic auto accident when he and Lydia were young. And he's not sure a relationship between his sister and Spencer is the best idea—not when Sir Lawrence is available and could match both Lydia's social status and her fortune.

Torn between risking their hearts and being loyal to their dreams in an era of whirlwind change, Spencer and Lydia anchor themselves with the determination they both share: to live life to its fullest.

Andrea's Review:

Krista Jensen did an excellent job writing this lovely Victorian romance. The cover wasn’t my favorite, but don’t let that stop you from reading this book. The Wendy League is such an entertaining group of women. Their quirks and uniqueness made them very likable. I really hope more books are written focusing on the other members since I thoroughly enjoyed Lydia’s story and her interactions with her friends. The romance was sweet and the setting during the second industrial revolution kept my curiosity piqued. It was fun learning more about the rise of the automobile industry, and also women’s suffrage and things like perfume.

Rorie's Review:

I enjoy a main character who is a bit of a spitfire, who doesn't quite fit in with the rest of society. Maybe because I would like to be a bit more spit-fireish, but most certainly am not. Lydia and her friends were so much fun getting to know, and I sincerely hope they will be getting their own stories in the future.
The storyline was entertaining, and I was able to finish the book quickly. I always enjoy it when a book is hard to put down, and I'm not so busy that I have to keep putting it down. (Either that, or I am really good at ignoring those gotta-do's in place of the wanna-do's.)
I look forward to reading more from this author.

About the Author:

Award-winning author KRISTA JENSEN works and plays in the Pacific Northwest with her spunky little dog and anyone else who wants to tag along. When she’s not exploring the outdoors, she can likely be found with her laptop, a pretty spiral notebook, and a Pilot Precise V7, writing about love, triumph, and really great kisses.

Either that or she’s switching laundry wondering who keeps wearing all these clothes. (It’s her.)

For book info and other good things, follow Krista on Instagram @kristajensenbooks.

Title: Hearts of Briarwall
Author: Krista Jensen
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: August 2022
ISBN: 1629729965
Source: I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Book Review: Georgana's Secret by Arlem Hawks

 

Book Description:

1811

A Regency romance on the high seas. Two hearts yearning to find a safe harbor, and possibly, a lasting love.

As a young girl, Georgana Woodall dreamed of beautiful dresses, fancy balls, and falling in love. However, when her mother dies, she cannot face a future under the guardianship of her abusive grandmother and instead chooses to join her father on his ship disguised as his cabin boy, "George."

Lieutenant Dominic Peyton has no time in his life for love, not with his dedication to His Majesty's Royal Navy claiming his full attention. While trying to adjust to a new crew, he strives to be an exemplary officer and leader. When he sees the captain's cabin boy being harassed by the crew, he immediately puts a stop to it and takes the "boy" under his wing. After discovering a number of clues, Dominic deduces that George is really a woman. Knowing that revealing the cabin boy's secret would put her in serious danger from the rowdy crew, Dominic keeps silent and hides his growing affection for her.

Georgana is quickly losing her heart to Dominic's compassion and care but is convinced nothing can come of her affection. She cannot continue to live her life on the sea, and having already missed too many seasons in London, her chances of being welcomed back into polite society and finding a suitable husband are quickly slipping away.

Georgana's Secret is about two hearts yearning to find a safe harbor, and possibly, a lasting love.

Rorie's Review:

For some reason, I have always been drawn to stories where the main character has to disguise herself as a boy for one reason or another, so the premise of this story drew me in right away. The author did a wonderful job of bringing all of the characters to life, and giving the reader a taste of what life might be like as a cabin boy who doesn't quite fit in with any group on board. 

Every time I read a story that takes place on a ship, I'm always amazed at just how many people are in board. I guess I just can't grasp the size of the ship, because I'm always shocked when there are more than 50 people on board. Anyway, the reader obviously doesn't get to know everyone, but we do get to know a handful, and I enjoyed getting to know them all, whether it was to love them or hate them. Definitely a well-written, enjoyable story that I plan on rereading more than once.

Andrea's Review:

Georgana’s Secret is a great addition to the Proper Romance line from Shadow Mountain. I loved the premise of a loving father trying to protect his daughter in the only way he could come up with-having her disguised as a cabin boy on the ship he captained. Wondering if her secret would be discovered made for an entertaining story, and a fast read.

The main characters, Georgana and Dominic, were well developed and lovable. Both had such good hearts and made huge sacrifices for their surviving parents-it showed how selfless they are.

Life on a ship in the early 1800s sounded pretty miserable, but I appreciated how the author included the feeling of love for the sea that some of the characters had.

I hadn’t heard of the author before, but I’m excited to read her other books, and highly recommend this one.

 Tarah's Review:

 One of my favorite things about reading is the feeling different books can create. If I hate a book, I may not be able to tell you what it was about later, but I can definitely say that I didn't like it. The reverse is also true. A good well written story will just leave me with a good feeling that I remember later. Georgana's Secret gave me the later feeling. I came away feeling filled and was left with a general sense of, "ya, I liked that book." It's always a good day when that happens. Especially with a book that I wasn't sure about to begin with. I'm not gonna lie. I probably wouldn't have picked this one off the shelf. The cover really doesn't intrigue or entice me, and I would have passed this one over because of that. How lucky am I that I read it anyway and loved it?!

I love this addition to the Proper Romance line, and would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet, clean, naval romance.

About the Author:

Arlem Hawks began making up stories before she could write. Living all over the Western United States and traveling around the world gave her a love of cultures and people and the stories they have to tell. With her travels came an interest in history, especially the history of her English heritage. When she isn't writing, Arlem is baking her characters' favorite foods, sewing Regency dresses, learning how to play the tin whistle, and water coloring. She lives in Arizona with her husband and two children. Having previously published four historical romance novellas, Georgana’s Secret is her debut novel.

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Book Review: Lakeshire Park by Megan Walker

Book Description:

Brighton, England 1820 

Amelia Moore wants only one thing--to secure the future happiness of her younger sister, Clara. With their stepfather's looming death, the two sisters will soon be on their own--without family, a home, or a penny to their names. When an invitation arrives to join a house party at Lakeshire Park, Amelia grasps at the chance. If she can encourage a match between Clara and their host, Sir Ronald, then at least her sister will be taken care of. 

Little does she know that another guest, the arrogant and overconfident Mr. Peter Wood, is after the same goal for his own sister. Amelia and Peter begin a rivalry that Amelia has no choice but to win. But competing against Peter--and eventually playing by his rules--makes Amelia vulnerable to losing the only thing she has left to claim: her heart.

Rorie's Review:

I started reading this book several weeks ago, but then I had to put it aside because I had other books that needed to be read first. When I finally was able to come back to it, I thought I might have to start over from the beginning so I could remember what was happening. Thankfully, it only took me about a chapter before I remembered what happened. This was a fun, but heartbreaking story. (Is that even possible?) I enjoyed the antics that Amelia and Peter would get in to each afternoon, but it was heartbreaking watching Amelia try and navigate a very tricky situation with her step-father's edict.

The relationship between the two main characters was entertaining at first and then became so comfortable. It was fun watching it develop. I was a little surprised at how Peter's sister was handled near the end. Not what I was expecting at all, but that wasn't a bad thing. I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more from this author.

Tarah's Review:

Beautiful. That's the word I would use to describe this story. Everything from the cover to the plot to the characters and, well, you get the picture.  I loved Amelia's and Peter's first encounter....and then all their subsequent ones. The author's writing really shines when those two are together and bantering back and forth.

I will admit that I did keep waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop at some point in the story, and it never really did. Honestly, I liked that aspect of the book. And when I go back and reread it, which I will, I can now enjoy it more fully knowing what is and is not coming.

I vacillated between liking Clara and Georgiana. I suppose that showed their youth, but at times I found them both sweet, and both super frustrating and mean. I'm actually hoping for another story from this author about the sister that didn't get what she was hoping for. I'd love to see a happily ever after for her.

Wonderfully done for a first time author. Walker is definitely someone to keep an eye out for. I hope she writes another one soon.

Andrea's Review:

Lakeshire Park is a wonderful story and a quick read. From the cover to the last page, it held my attention, and I'm looking forward to reading it again.

The tension between Amelia and Peter was wonderful. The initial distaste and then how it grew favorable was great. Their relationship and the story as a whole was compelling.

There are some sad and touching moments which really helped keep me intrigued and connected to the characters. The girls’ past was so sad with the heartless stepfather and their desperate situation.

This is very sweet story that I'd recommend, and I would read more from the author.

Title: Lakeshire Park

Author: Megan Walker

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published: April 2020

ISBN: 1629727342

Source: Advanced reader copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book 

Book Review: Promised by Leah Garriott

 Promised by Leah Garriott

Book Description:

Margaret Brinton keeps her promises, and the one she is most determined to keep is the promise to protect her heart...

Warwickshire, England, 1812

Fooled by love once before, Margaret vows never to be played the fool again. To keep her vow, she attends a notorious match-making party intent on securing the perfect marital match:  a union of convenience to someone who could never affect her heart. She discovers a man who exceeds all her hopes in the handsome and obliging rake, Mr. Northam. 

There's only one problem. His meddling cousin, Lord Williams, won't leave Margaret alone. Condescending and high-handed, Lord Williams lectures and insults her. When she refuses to give heed to his counsel, he single-handedly ruins Margaret's chances for making a good match--to his cousin or anyone else. With no reason to remain at the party, Margaret returns home to discover her father has promised her hand in marriage--to Lord Williams.

Under no conditions will Margaret consent to marrying such an odious man. Yet as Lord Williams inserts himself into her everyday life, interrupting her family games and following her on morning walks, winning the good opinion of her siblings and proving himself intelligent and even kind, Margaret is forced to realize that Lord Williams is exactly the man she'd hoped to marry before she'd learned how much love hurt. When paths diverge and her time with Lord Williams ends, Margaret is faced with her ultimate choice: keep the promises that protect her or break free of them for one more chance at love. Either way, she fears her heart will lose.

Rorie's Review:

Every now and then, you come across a book that immediately draws you in and doesn't let go until you finish the story. This is one of those books. I found myself rushing through my "gotta-do's" so I could hurry up and get back to reading. 

My heart ached for Margaret, and I really couldn't blame her for basically closing off her heart... or attempting to, anyway. But, she is not a robot, no matter how much she might have wanted to be, and those pesky emotions kept getting in the way. 

I honestly wasn't sure what to think of Gregory, and had a hard time trusting him for quite awhile. I definitely liked him better than some of the other men in the story though. Mr. Lundall was an amusing character, although I thought his story was going to end up differently than it did. 

I'm glad I had the chance to read this story and look forward to reading more from this author.

Tarah's Review:

Isn't the cover of this book stunning?!? I love the red. One day when I organize my bookshelf by color instead of by author this red is going to really pop :) Anyway, it's definitely something that would catch my attention and make me want to see what it was all about.

Poor Margaret! What she went through, and then what she decided to do to never go through it again! It all just broke my heart. But I loved how her family was actually supportive and loved her. In a lot of stories the family doesn't can about the girl at all and it was refreshing to see a loving family (I like those other stories too, but sometimes different is good). The relationship Margaret had with her brother was fun, and I was sad to see it change, even though the change was for the good of the story.

While I never doubted that Lord William's was a good guy, I was totally curious as to his motivations the whole book. His role reminded me strongly of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice. There were some strong similarities there for awhile.

I loved the book, and I will be rereading it again. However, I felt like the end just kinda....ended. Not in a cliff hanger sort of way, but definitely not wrapped up in a pretty little bow. It was sort of ... anti-climatic. Which I realize is odd since the climax was all wrapped up nicely, but the end just...ended, and I was like, "Oh. It's over." That was a little disappointing to me, but not enough to ruin the very good book that I just read.

Andrea's Review:

Promised by Leah Garriott is a delightful read that really hit the spot on this snowy, nothing is open, can’t go anywhere day. It is a clean, engaging read that is a great addition to the Proper Romance line.

I was surprised by Lord Williams’ secret. Trying to figure out his motivation and determine if he was really a good guy kept me intrigued.

Margaret was very stubborn, but her attitude and reactions made a lot of sense given the betrayal she’d faced.

Leah Garriott did an excellent job with this story. I believe it is a debut novel for her, and I'd happily read more from her in the future.

Title: Promised

Author: Leah Garriott
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: February 2020
ISBN: 1629726141
Source: Advanced reader copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own. 

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book 

Blog Tour: Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me by Julie Wright

 Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me by Julie Wright

Book Description:

Can the fairy tale bring Charlotte the happiness she’s looking for, or was he always there to begin with?

A modern, reimagined Cinderella story.

When aspiring author Charlotte Kingsley finally gets published, she thinks all her dreams have come true. But the trouble begins when her publicity firm reinvents her quirky online presence into a perfectly curated dream life. Gone are the days of sweatpant posts and ice cream binges with her best friend, Anders, replaced instead with beautiful clothes, orchestrated selfies, and no boyfriend. Only, that carefully curated fairy tale life is ruining her self-esteem and making her feel like a fraud.

When a bestselling author takes Charlotte under her wing—almost like a fairy godmother—she helps Charlotte see the beautiful person she already is and the worth of being authentic. But is it too late to save her relationship with Anders? The clock is quickly ticking towards midnight, and Charlotte must decide between her fairy tale life and the man she loves, before he's gone forever.

Rorie's Review:

This story drew me in immediately. How can it not when it starts out with "My fairy godmother was all talk and no action?" Lettie is quirky, kind of a hot mess, and was so much fun to get to know. I'm always a sucker for best friend romances, so this was right up my alley. It was fun watching her relationship with Anders develop into something more, although it happened a lot quicker than I thought it would. It wasn't insta-romance, by any means, it just happened much earlier in the story than I originally thought it would. 

I must admit, I was kinda horrified to read about all the things her publicist was expecting her to do. Is that normal for authors? I sincerely hope not, because that would be awful. 

This is one of those stories that I stayed up way too late reading, and that's always a sign that I loved it. I highly recommend it.

Tarah's Review:

I'm a sucker for fairy tales, even modern re imagined ones. And while I think the Cinderella Fairy Tale is overdone, I did thoroughly enjoy this take of Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me. I found the characters to be fun and real (towards the end in regards to Lettie's mother). I liked the different layers of each character, and more than that, I liked that Lettie grew into herself. She discovered that she wasn't the same as she was in the beginning of the book, and she wasn't the person the publicist made her into. I liked that she had to figure out who she really was, and which of those things were a lie.

I did feel like the story went super fast, and then just kinda resolved before I was ready for it too. It felt like build up, build up, build up, and then a really quick resolution. However, this could be because I kept waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop, and it never really did until the end. I thought things were going to get super awkward with her publicist long before it never really did. I'm super sensitive to awkwardness in my books, and I just kept waiting for that, and since it never really happened maybe that's why it seemed a little quick for me. 

It is a cute read though, and I will reread it again, and I'll definitely listen to it on audio book if they come out with that.
Andrea's Review:

I love the Proper Romance line from Shadow Mountain and really enjoyed this modern-day retelling of Cinderella by Julie Wright. It was a fast read and one that I can see myself reading again (I hope an audio version will be available soon). The cover is eye-catching, and the characters are very likable.

I liked the big contrast between Letti's dream and the realization of the dream. The grass is always greener on the other side, and it's good to take a step back every once in awhile to appreciate what we have. There were also some great lessons on judging and the masks we wear. Are we being our authentic selves?

Anders was such a great guy. I felt for him quite a bit during the story, and was happy that at the end of it all he got to be happy too.

Title: Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me
Author: Julie Wright
Publisher: Shadow Mountain 
Published: October 2019
ISBN: 1629726079
Source: Review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.
Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Blog Tour: A Song for the Stars by Ilima Todd

A Song for the Stars by Ilima Todd

Book Description:

Hawaiian Islands, 1779

As the second daughter of a royal chief, Maile will be permitted to marry for love. Her fiancé is the best navigator in Hawaii, and he taught her everything he knows how to feel the ocean, observe the winds, read the stars, and how to love.

But when sailors from a strange place called England arrive on her island, a misunderstanding ends in battle, and Maile is suddenly widowed before she is wed.

Finding herself in the middle of the battle and fearing for her life, Maile takes John Harbottle, the wounded man who killed her fiancé, prisoner, and though originally intending to let him die, she reluctantly heals him. And in the process, she discovers the man she thought was her enemy might be her ally instead.

John has been Captain James Cook's translator for three voyages across the Pacific. He is kind and clearly fascinated with her homeland and her people and Maile herself. But guilt continues to drive a wedge between them: John's guilt over the death he caused, and Maile's guilt over the truth about what triggered the deadly battle a secret she's kept hidden from everyone on the island.

When Maile is tasked with teaching John how to navigate using the stars so he can sail back to England, they must also navigate the challenges of being from very different cultures. In doing so, they might also find the peace that comes when two hearts become one.

Rorie's Review:

What an enjoyable story. I have visited Hawaii several times, and absolutely love it there. I have heard a bit about the story of Captain James Cook, and I think I learned about the story of the battle on the cliffs as well (unless there was more than one battle that ended that way...) and this story helped humanize and bring to life these events. This is one reason why I enjoy reading historic fiction so much.

I really enjoyed riding along while the relationship between Maile and John developed. She was such a strong woman, and I can't even imagine how hard it was for her to heal and care for the very person that killed her fiance, but she was able to (eventually) look past the horror of that battle and get to know the real John Harbottle.

This was one of those stories that I had a hard time putting down. I have read a few of Ilima's other books, and she definitely has a talent for telling a story and bringing the characters to life. I highly recommend this book - especially to my friend, who shares the same name as the main character. :)

Andrea's Review:

A Song for the Stars is an excellent addition to the Proper Romance line from Shadow Mountain. It is quite different from the other books in the line, but a wonderfully written account that kept me intrigued. I loved that the main characters were the author's fourth-great-grandparents.

I don't recall having known about how Captain James Cook was killed. The author does note that she adjusted some things for the sake of the story, but much of what was shared (both about Cook and the history of the people) was eye opening and makes me want to learn more.

This is very different from Todd's dystopian novels, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I couldn't help but think of Moana and Pocahontas (the Disney versions) while I was reading the book. I loved the strong female lead, and the sweet romance that developed (against the odds). I'm looking forward to reading this again.

Tarah's Review:

I have never read a story set in the Hawaiian Islands, let alone where the main character is Hawaiian. I loved it. I loved delving into the culture (why couldn't the women eat bananas? I'm going to have to google that...I don't think it ever said why). My favorite thing about this story though, was how Maile and John were both able to look past their selves and see the why of the other culture. How great is it that even though one culture does something horrifying, after a moment of feeling that horror, John was able to ask the reason behind it and find out the love and respect that comes from the gesture instead of the first impression. Maile does the same thing, even when she doesn't agree with what's going on. She jumps onboard and makes it work by seeing others and how things could be. I just loved those moments in the story (and there were many).

I will admit that I struggled with the point of view for the first quarter of the book. I'm not sure why. It seemed a little choppy way to tell the story, although normally I don't mind a story like that. It's quite possible I just wasn't in the right frame of mind for it, but after a little bit I got into story and forgot about the point of view.

This was a beautiful story, set in a beautiful setting, and I can't wait to read more from this author, and I can't wait to read this particular story again.

Title: A Song for the Stars

Author: Ilima Todd
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: April 2019
ISBN:1629725285
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book 

Blog Tour: Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's by Julie Wright

Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's by Julie Wright

Book Description:

The Lie
Women in Hollywood are just pretty faces. But Silvia Bradshaw knows that’s a lie, and she’s ready to be treated as an equal and prove her worth as one of Hollywood’s newest film editors.

The Love
She and Ben Mason had worked together as editors before Silvia got her big break, so he’s the perfect person to ask for feedback on her first major film. But even as their friendship begins to blossom into something more, a lawsuit surfaces, jeopardizing both of their jobs—as well as their fledgling romance. Audrey Hepburn once said: “The most important things is to enjoy your life—to be happy—it’s all that matters.” Silvia agrees. Or she used to. It’s one thing to risk her job and her heart, but can she really risk Ben’s too? Does she have the right to make decisions for her own happiness when they affect so many other people?

The Breakfast
With everything to lose, Silvia meets Ben for breakfast at his favorite diner, Tiffany’s, for one last conversation before the credits roll on true love.

Andrea's Review:

I loved Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's! I didn't realized when I started reading it that it's a companion novel to Lies Jane Austen Told Me. That said, it can be read as a standalone, but I would highly recommend reading both. It's nice to have the background of the supporting characters from the first book.

This is the kind of book that is best to start when you've got a day to read. I really didn't want to put it down once I started.

I was fascinated by Silvia for many reasons, but her eye (or lack thereof) really made her intriguing. I was quite curious how things like driving would work being sightless on one side. I was concerned for her safety, and imagined her having a car with those blind spot indicators. The author did a great job of including Silvia's vulnerabilities when people sat on her blind side, or approached her on that side. It was really fascinating, and even more so learning at the end of the book that Silvia is based on the author's friend who has one eye. I have pretty horrible vision, but my issues are corrected by glasses or contacts. I can't imagine how difficult certain things would be only having one eye. But, I loved the banter between Silvia and her best friend, Emma. Silvia made the best of her situation and didn't complain about it. She was used to it, and knew how to adjust to succeed in her job and life.

I studied video production in college and could relate to the parts of the book that focused on video editing too. I really enjoyed having that additional connection to the book.

I'm looking forward to reading this book again, and hope it is available on audio book soon so I can listen to it while I work.

Rorie's Review:

I love the way this author writes. There are so many awesome one-liners that had me giggling out loud. This book was a read-in-one-dayer, so it's a good thing I didn't have anything pressing going on. I mean, there's cleaning, but that's not going anywhere.

Silvia and Ben were so fun to get to know. They had a chemistry that was visible to the reader from the very beginning. They helped make each other better people... Even if Silvia was a bit clueless at times.

I enjoyed the humor thrown in about Audrey-the-eye. Silvia took something challenging from her youth and grew from it. Humor always helps. I did wonder how she was able to drive with one eye. I imagine that's quite a challenge to get used to.

A good story not only has strong main characters, but strong supporting characters as well. This book definitely did. Silvia's grandma was a hoot and Emma was the kind of best friend that we should all hope to be. This is definitely a book that is a keeper.

Tarah's Review:

After I started reading Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's I was excited to realize that the characters in this are the ones from Lies Jane Austen Told Me. Silvia is back! It can definitely be read without having read Lies Jane Austen Told Me, but honestly, do yourself a favor and read both.

This is a very quick read. I was totally taken in for a ride, and I loved it. I will admit that I enjoyed Lies Jane Austen Told Me a little bit more, but this is definitely a book that I will reread and enjoy again and again. I think I didn't like it quite as much because I don't know much about Audrey Hepburn. I've seen maybe two movies of hers, and so I wasn't really able to relate to the story in that way.

Ben is a great character, but I swear I almost throttled him at the end of the book. I can't say much without giving anything away, but grr... Serious communication needs to happen. And it does for most of the book, but the end. Oh the end. Okay, it ends well, so the last little bit before the end. Regardless, it was a great read. Loved all the characters, loved the setting, loved the story line. This was a winner.



Title: Lies, Love, and Breakfast at Tiffany's
Author: Julie Wright
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: November 2018
ISBN: 1629724874
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.


Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Blog Tour: Promises and Primroses by Josi S. Kilpack

 Promises and Primroses by Josi S. Kilpack

Book Description:

Lord Elliott Mayfield aims to correct the very messy marital mistakes and spousal scandals of his brothers and sisters by requiring his nieces and nephews to choose worthy companions.  If they choose wisely, they will receive their generous share of the family’s inheritance.

Peter, Elliott’s eldest nephew, thinks the entire idea is ridiculous. A widower with two young daughters, he simply needs a governess, not a wife. Julia Hollingsworth certainly has the credentials and the experience, but is altogether too young and pretty for such a job. So why can’t he stop thinking about her?

Julia loves working as a governess, despite the objections of her mother, Amelia. And as it turns out, Amelia has a lot to say about the Mayfield men—none of it good. But Julia dismisses the rumors of ruined reputations and instead concentrates on helping Peter with his children and his fledgling business in canine husbandry. His kindness and gentleness is endearing—and increasingly attractive.

But Amelia, whose heart was broken thirty years ago by none other than Elliott Mayfield, is determined to prevent any relationship from blooming either between Peter and Julia—or between herself and Elliott.

Hearts and history collide as both couples must face their pasts and decide if risking it all is worth the promise of new love and a new future.

Rorie's Review:

Oo, I just noticed that this book is part of the Mayfield Family series. This excites me because I'd really like to find out more about this family. I really enjoyed this story, although I found myself getting frustrated that the reader only got hints here and there about all of the scandals that were part of the Mayfield legacy. I admit I'm an overly curious sort, but I really wanted to know ALL of the details. Just getting bits and pieces of the story was driving me nuts.

Aside from that part though, I enjoyed getting to know Elliott, Peter, Julia and Amelia. I wasn't expecting two different relationships, but it was enjoyable seeing how they both played out. Forgiveness, hurt, misunderstandings and bitterness are a big part of this book and it kind of makes you look at yourself to see where you could change.

I'm looking forward to future books not only with the Mayfield Family, but also in the Proper Romance series.

Andrea's Review:

I can't resist a Proper Romance-it really is a great line of books that you should check out if you haven't yet. 

The cover of Promises and Primroses is eye catching, and the graphic that says Mayfield Family Series makes it that much more interesting for me. I have no idea how many other books will be in the series, but I liked that book one felt complete. There are definitely things that aren't explained, but the main characters in this book get a happy ending (a must have for me).

I will admit I was a little nervous when I opened the book and saw the family pedigree. Sometimes a book will have a cast of characters, and that makes me think too much will be going on and I'll be lost. I don't like having to refer back to something like that to know who's who.  Thankfully, that wasn't an issue with this story. There is definitely mention of other family members, but the focus wasn't on more than four people, and that wasn't overwhelming.

I enjoyed the story and really felt for Julia (especially at the beginning). This was a fast read for me, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.

Tarah's Review:

 I will admit I was concerned when I saw that this book was going to have four different perspectives. I love knowing who is thinking what and why, but I was worried that four might be a little too much. I was also worried because when I get to know the different characters I really want the story to be about them, not about everyone else and I thought that maybe that would happen in this book. Surprisingly none of my worries came about. Each of the four characters stories was told in a way that didn't take away from the other characters stories. In fact, each one enhanced that others. That was really refreshing. 

I read this book quickly, but I was taken aback by how many characters it had. There is a reason it had a family tree in the front, and while the story mostly focuses on the main four, there was some confusion for me sometimes with mention of other people. Although, I will admit that sometime I read for the purpose of finding out the ending that I miss important details (it's a large reason why I reread so many books). 

My favorite thing in this book was that the main characters actually talked to each other to solve the conflict. Surprise! Communication works! It isn't something that is seen often in novels, and I found it refreshing. 

I'd definitely read more from this family. 

Title: Promises and Primroses
Author: Josi S. Kilpack
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: September 2018
ISBN: 1629724572
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
 

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

  

Blog Tour: Kiss of the Spindle by Nancy Campbell Allen

Kiss of the Spindle by Nancy Campbell Allen

Book Description:

A steampunk Sleeping Beauty story from the author of Beauty and the Clockwork Beast.

Doctor Isla Cooper is cursed. Literally. Each night, at the stroke of midnight she falls into a death-like sleep from which she cannot be awakened for six hours. To make it worse, the curse has an expiration date—after a year, it becomes permanent. And the year is almost up.

In a desperate attempt to find Malette—the witch who cursed her—Isla blackmails her way onto Daniel Pickett's private airship bound for the Caribbean, only to discover she's traveling with three illegal shapeshifters and the despicable Nigel Crowe, a government official determined to hunt down and exterminate every shapeshifter in England. Isla and Daniel must work together to keep the identities of the shapeshifters hidden while coming to terms with their own hidden secrets, and their blossoming attraction to each other.

Filled with suspense, intrigue, and plenty of romance, Kiss of the Spindle is steampunk Sleeping Beauty story. It is a race against the clock as Isla and Daniel try to hunt down the elusive Malette before Isla's death-like sleep becomes permanent.

Andrea's Review:

Steampunk isn't typically my genre of choice, but I'm a huge fan of Proper Romance novels, so I jumped at the chance to read Nancy Campbell Allen's latest novel, Kiss of the Spindle. An additional incentive was that my favorite childhood Disney cartoon was "Sleeping Beauty", and I was excited to see what Allen would do with her Steampunk version.

I really like what Allen did with this story. I liked the spin on Isla's condition-that she slept like the dead every night. A spindle is involved in the story, but not in the way Disney used it.

The characters were great-we don't get the three good fairies, but the three supporting character's that Daniel is transporting really add a lot to the story.

This wasn't the type of story that I couldn't put down, but it was enjoyable.

Rorie's Review:

When I first read Beauty and the Clockwork Beast, it took me a bit to get used to the whole steampunk style of writing, but that book quickly became one of my favorite novels - in fact, I just finished listening to the audio book (again) before starting to read this book.

I've always enjoyed the Sleeping Beauty story, and I really like fairy tale retellings. This book definitely did not disappoint, and I know it will be one that I will re-read or listen to over and over again.

Obviously, this story is not an exact retelling of the original fairy tale. It is very different, in fact. But I loved how the author wove so many elements of the original story into hers. The spindle, the castle, the three fairy godmothers, etc. They're all in there.

This was one of those stories that I never wanted to end. I quite enjoy Nancy's writing style and am looking forward to reading future novels from her.

Tarah's Review:

I forget how much I enjoy steam punk until I read one. Unfortunately I don't read them often because it isn't my go to genre. I haven't read very many, but I have really enjoyed those that I have read, and Kiss of the Spindle is no exception to that. What a fun take on a classic fairy tale. Allen does a marvelous job getting all the elements of this tale in there, but without making it forced or contrived. This book has a wonderful flow to it, that makes everything that happens seem natural (for the steam punk world, anyway).

All characters are fun to read about. I got swept up right away in their story.  Good, bad, good and bad, I wanted to know more. Each character seamlessly appears. There aren't too many that it's hard to keep track of them. And we are never wondering why they made an appearance in the first place.

This was a book that I couldn't put down until it was finished. All else slipped away as I entered a magical world that I didn't want to end. I can't wait for Sam's story. I wonder what fairy tale Allen is going to do for him. 

Title: Kiss of the Spindle
Author: Nancy Campbell Allen
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: July 2018
ISBN: 1629724149
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
 

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book