Book Review of 'Texas Forsaken' by Sherry Shindelar

Hello Bookworms!

If you've followed me for any length of time you know that I am a Texas gal.  I was born and raised in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and one of the topics I have always loved to study is Texas history.  I always jump at any historical fiction that has to do with Texas, which gives my love of history in a wonderful fictional package as it allows my imagination to go wild while also keeping the historical aspect on the forefront.  I love it!!

The historical fiction I am reviewing today was such an incredibly powerful novel that I am excited to give my thoughts on.  I hope you enjoy my review and, as always, don't forget to scroll down to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Texas Forsaken by Sherry Shindelar, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Texas Forsaken
Series: Lone Star Redemption #1
Author: Sherry Shindelar
Publisher: Wild Heart Books
Release Date: May 21, 2024
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

The man who destroyed her life may be the only one who can save it. 

Seven years ago, Maggie Logan (Eyes-Like-Sky) lost everything she knew when a raid on a wagon train tore her from her family. As the memories of her past faded to nothing more than vague shadows, Maggie adapted, marrying a Comanche warrior, having a baby, and rebuilding her life. But in one terrible battle, the U.S. Cavalry destroys that life and she is taken captive again, this time by those who call themselves her people. Forced into a world she wants nothing to do with, Eyes-Like-Sky’s only hope at protecting her child may be an engagement to the man who killed her husband. 

Enrolled in West Point to escape his overbearing father, Captain Garret Ramsey finds himself assigned to the Texas frontier, witnessing the brutal Indian War in which both sides commit atrocities. Plagued by guilt for his own role, Garret seeks redemption by taking responsibility for the woman he widowed and her baby. Though he is determined to do whatever it takes to protect them, is he willing to risk everything for a woman whose heart is buried in a grave?  

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Book Review of 'Love Overboard' by Shannon Sue Dunlap

Hello Bookworms!

I don't know about you but to me May is speeding by so fast that I can't seem to wrap my head around all of the chaos!  I know one day I am going to look back at this time and cherish every sweet memory but it can be a lot when you're in deep of it!

Today I am featuring a novel that was exactly what I needed right now...a super cute and sweet escape.  Who doesn't love a story set on a cruise ship?  I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this novel and, as always, don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Love Overboard by Shannon Sue Dunlap, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Love Overboard
Series: Love Overboard #1
Author: Shannon Sue Dunlap
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Release Date: May 21, 2024
Genre: Christian Romcom

A snort-laughing, cruise ship romance takes readers into topsy-turvy waters 

When a group of four quirky friends retire on a neverending round of cruises, their attire consists of more than floral shirts and gaudy skirts. Armed with walkie-talkies and battle plans, these relationship experts--who've dubbed themselves the "Shippers"--target hostess Lacey Anderson and director Jonathan King in their romantic schemes. But the young couple refuses to cooperate. They've been on the "love boat" together before, and it went down in flames. 

Boss matchmaker Emily Windsor has orchestrated multiple romantic successes, and these two upstarts certainly won't get the best of her. The chemistry between Lacey and Jonathan is obvious, but the couple rebuffs every outlandish plot and "coincidental" meeting, forcing the matchmakers to chart a new course to true love--all while inadvertently thwarting drug smugglers threatening to ruin their floating home on the ocean. 

This laugh-out-loud rom-com features loveable characters, over-the-top situations reminiscent of 1950s sitcoms, and a dash of mystery. The toe-curling romance will push the reader overboard and all in with Shannon Dunlap's new series.

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Book Review of 'Healing of the Heart' by Heidi Gray McGill

Happy Friday Bookworms!

We are deep in graduation preparation in the Flores house!  In one week we will be celebrating our baby graduating high school.  No matter how many times I say it I still can't believe it.  I feel so blessed but I am also very overwhelmed, which is why I escape into wonderful novels like the one I am featuring today!  

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this post-Civil War inspirational novel and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Healing of the Heart by Heidi Gray McGill, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Healing of the Heart
Series: Discerning God's Best #4
Author: Heidi Gray McGill
Publisher: Heidi Gray McGill Books LLC
Release Date: May 10, 2024
Genre: Christian Historical Romance, Post-Civil War, Inspirational Fiction

He’s sworn to heal others, but at what cost to himself? 

Step into the bustling streets of post-Civil War Philadelphia, where cultural injustice and class disparity run rampant. Amidst this chaos, Thomas, an aspiring doctor from the wilds of Missouri, struggles to find his place in a society to which he is unaccustomed. But when he meets debutante Emmaline Whitaker, she teaches him more than the social graces - she holds the key to his future. Only it is the independent, fun-loving Theodora Morse who holds his attention. 

As Thomas navigates the complexities of high society, he must also confront his inner turmoil. When devastating news comes from home, Thomas is forced to use his waning faith to determine the desire of his heart. Will Thomas stand by his convictions and fight against the malaise of those around him, or will he choose the safety and comfort of his new life? 

In this powerful Christian historical fiction, award-winning author Heidi Gray McGill weaves a poignant tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption in the City of Brotherly Love. 

For Misty M. Beller, Lacy Williams, and Linda Ford fans, this standalone novel in the Discerning God’s Best series will capture your heart and leave you breathless. You’ll love this book if you enjoy gripping historical drama and compelling characters. Binge-read the entire series on Kindle Unlimited.

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Spotlight on 'Loyally, Luke' by Pepper Basham

Hello Bookworms!

I am super excited that you're here with me today!!  I am currently listening to the audiobook of today's featured novel and let me tell you it is out of this world!  Multiple narrators really bring this contemporary romance to life, and I can't wait to tell you more of my thoughts in the future, but today I am sharing an excerpt from this adorable story that I know you will enjoy.

As always, don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Loyally, Luke by Pepper Basham hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Loyally, Luke 

Series: Skymar #3 

Author: Pepper Basham 

Publisher: Thomas Nelson 

Release Date: May 14, 2024 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance

Sometimes love means embracing the good, the bad. . . and even the impossible.

Dear Reader -- My name is Luke Edgewood, and there are few things in life that I require. Mainly black coffee. And flannel. And lots of solitude. And my dogs, Chewy and Indie. What I don't need is romance, so I have no plans to change my thirty-year-old bachelor status anytime soon. 

But my youngest sister thinks that by accepting a short-term construction job in the small European country of Skymar, that I'm going to follow along in her footsteps and discover my own romantic adventure. Nope. Bah humbug. The End. This time, her rom-com-movie senses are totally wrong. 

Or maybe not. Because I've met a Grace Kelly lookalike who is annoying. . . until she isn't. But she is impossible. As in, nothing can happen between us because she is a literal princess. Even though that's easy to forget when we're working together to restore a castle-like orphanage in a secluded mountain town and "forced proximity" includes a small closet, a secret one-hundred-year-old journal, and the tactile memory of an off-limits royal in my arms. 

Basically, the whole situation has turned into an ooey gooey magical snow globe of romantic tropes complete with cute kids and an actual ball. Now, even my sentences are starting to sound like mush. Ugh. Send high levels of testosterone my way--I'm going to need it. 

Loyally, Luke

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Spotlight on 'Darkness Calls the Tiger' by Janyre Tromp

Happy Wednesday Bookworms!

I am so excited you are here on this fine spring day!  Now that my birthday festivities are past my sole focus is on graduation!!  Ten days from now I will officially have no school-aged children!  I am still in denial about it all and I have a feeling it'll hit when I see my baby walk across that stage but until that moment, I am keeping super busy and staying in the moment.

Today I am shining a bright spotlight on another historical fiction that is high on my TBR list and I have a delicious excerpt that'll make you want to add it to your list too!  I hope you enjoy and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Darkness Calls the Tiger by Janyre Tromp, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Darkness Calls the Tiger: A Novel of World War II Burma
Author: Janyre Tromp
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Release Date: May 14, 2024
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Imperial Japan devours the southern portion of Burma, intent on taking over mainland Asia. Unaware of the coming darkness, Kailyn Moran drifts in her role as the only daughter of a widowed missionary. 

As whispers of war snake through the Kachin mountains, Kai's father is convinced God will protect the mission. He entrusts the village to her and the kind yet inexperienced new missionary, Ryan McDonough, while he makes routine visits to neighboring villages. 

War descends like a tempest upon the mountain peaks, and an unbreakable bond forms between Kailyn and Ryan as they unite to provide solace to both villagers and the flood of refugees. Despite their tireless efforts, a brutal enemy shatters almost everything they love, pushing Kailyn to embark on a path of unrestrained vengeance. 

Afraid he's losing the woman he loves, Ryan fights to protect Kai from the deadly consequences of her choices. But in the face of destruction, can he convince her of the power and freedom of forgiveness? 

"Evocative and transportive, filled with nuance and spiked with the violence of war, Darkness Calls the Tiger is a story of redemption in the midst of hopelessness." --Tosca Lee, New York Times best-selling author

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Book Review of 'Case of the Bayfront Murder' by S.K. Derban

Happy Friday Bookworms!!

It's my birthday!!! 🎉 

Yes, today I am 43 years young, and I am feeling every one of those years physically but mentally I'm barely 21! LOL I was born on Mother's Day 1981, so my birthday weekend always coincides with Mother's Day, so this weekend is all about celebrating me and mothers of all kinds out there.  We really don't have much planned since illness has again descended on our home, but I do hope to either go bowling or possibly go to an escape room.  Honestly, it doesn't matter what I do as long as I can spend time with my family.

Another thing on the agenda is lots of relaxing and reading some great reads, like the novel I am featuring today.  I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this cozy mystery and, as always, don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours.

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Case of the Bayfront Murder by S.K. Derban, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Case of the Bayfront Murder
Series: A Macaroni on Wheels Mystery #1
Author: SK Derban
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: March 27, 2024
Genre: Cozy Mystery

Little Italy in San Diego, once a thriving fishing community, has blossomed into a prominent tourist destination. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant neighborhood, both travelers and residents find the Tiepolo Mercato a favorite spot to stop and shop. Ezio and Benedette Tiepolo are the proprietors of the Mercato, while their daughter owns Macaroni on Wheels, the catering company located directly next door. 

There’s more than pasta cooking in the Macaroni on Wheels kitchen. Meet Terza Tiepolo, a feisty Italian caterer who fills her free time solving crime. She belongs to a local murder mystery book club, and leads the other participants in their monthly whodunnit contest. 

Terza also works diligently to grow her catering business. But when a prominent doctor hires Terza’s company to cater a dinner party, she never expects murder to be on the menu. The prestigious bayfront event should enhance the Macaroni on Wheels portfolio, and Terza anticipates meeting many potential new clients. On the day of the party, Terza arrives early to prepare, only to discover her grand expectations are as dead as the body on the kitchen floor. 

Fans of cozy mysteries will revel in solving the murder along with Terza, and will appreciate her zest for life. Readers will also treasure the introduction to her vibrant Italian relatives. They will enjoy getting to know the Tiepolo family, and will smile at the special relationship Terza has with her mother and father. The fun never stops when the animated relatives join together each Sunday for dinner. Consider this your personal invitation!

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Spotlight on the Desert Manna Series by Karen Baney

Hello Bookworms!

I am so excited that you're here with me today!  Today, I am featuring an entire series and sharing excerpts from each novel!  I hope you enjoy this series spotlight and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post to enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Desert Manna series by Karen Baney, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About Book #1: Beauty for Ashes

Title: Beauty for Ashes
Series: Desert Manna #1
Author: Karen Baney
Publisher: Desert Life Media
Release Date: March 7,2022
Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Uplifting Historical Christian Romance Fiction set in Prescott, Arizona in 1871. 

As a widow who lost her husband in Sherman’s fiery march to the sea, Rebecca Elliot struggled to provide for her son. When she hears from her brother in Prescott, Arizona, she makes the journey west to start over. An unexpected tragedy on the last leg of her travels changes the trajectory of her heart and life as she never could have imagined. 

Perry Quinn finally said goodbye to his late wife when his life is turned upside down. When he loses everything that he worked hard to accomplish, he must humble himself and start over while trying to find the answers to why he lost everything. Along the way, a kind woman steals his heart and reminds him that there is beauty in the middle of the ashes of his life. 

Will he let go of his grief to find true love?  

If you like these authors, you'll enjoy this book too: Tracie Peterson, Tamera Alexander, Karen Witemeyer, Lacy Williams, Jodi Hedlund, Misty M. Beller

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Book Review of 'Walking on Hidden Wings' by Rachel Scott McDaniel

Hello Bookworms!

Have you ever seen a book cover and it spoke to you so deeply that you knew that no matter the subject you were going to read it?  That's exactly what happened to me when I first saw the cover of Walking on Hidden Wings.  I think the Roaring Twenties is just the bee's knees and was excited to see where this historical romance would take my heart and imagination, and I was not disappointed.  Sometimes you can tell a book by its cover...

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Walking on Hidden Wings by Rachel Scott McDaniel hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Walking on Hidden Wings: A Novel of the Roaring Twenties 

Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: April 23, 2024 

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Geneva Ashcroft Hayes's marriage to a newspaper mogul might have been arranged, but the New York socialite is devastated when her husband's plane crashes a few short months after their nuptials. When the authorities suspect murder, Geneva sets out on a wild mission to find his killer--and to prove it wasn't her!

When mysterious notes surface pointing to Geneva's guilt in his death, they only strengthen her resolve. She has little to go on except for a detective friend's cryptic list of locations connected to her dead spouse. When the friend also disappears, she trades her sparkling gowns for coveralls and pilot goggles. 

Armed with a new name and career as a wingwalker and barnstormer, she travels from town to town in hopes of unearthing clues and locating her missing friend. But Geneva discovers that her past may not belong to her . . . what she once believed as truth may be nothing more than lies and deception. 

"A tangled web, a sleuthing adventure, a rekindled romance . . . Walking on Hidden Wings has it all."

    --Rachel Fordham, author of The Letter Tree 

"Fans of intelligent mysteries, butterfly-inducing romance, and the Roaring Twenties, prepare yourselves--Walking on Hidden Wings will sweep you away to the skies! McDaniel's lyrical prose is a delight, and readers will be fascinated by the daring beginnings of aviation. A true gem." 

    --Joanna Barker, author of A Heart Worth Stealing

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Excerpt from 'Lethal Danger' by Jerusha Agen

Happy May Bookworms!

Ah May, otherwise known as my birthday month!!  Yes, in nine short days I will be officially in my mid-40's.  I was born on Mother's Day and my birthday falls on that day every few years but no matter what day it falls on my birthday is always eclipsed.  I also share my birthday with my grandmother, which used to bother me, but as she is entering her mid-80's I cherish every year that we still have together.  May is not my favorite month, but this year it is a huge month as so many wonderful things are happening, so I am thanking God for every precious moment, trying to remind myself to breathe, and intentionally being present, which is hard with my ADHD-riddled mind.

One thing that has always grounded me, and helped keep me focused, has been books, and today I am excited to share an excerpt from the latest release from the Guardians Unleashed series by Jerusha Agen, so I hope you enjoy!  As always, don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Lethal Danger by Jerusha Agen, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Lethal Danger
Series: Guardians Unleashed #4
Author: Jerusha Agen
Publisher: SDG Words
Release Date: April 25, 2024
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

This K-9 team is trained to eliminate threats. This threat could eliminate them. 

Being a loner is getting old. Jazz Lamont still can’t fit in at the Phoenix K-9 Agency, and she’s losing her best friend. At least providing security with her K-9 partner at the Tri-City Fair will mean revisiting the only place where she once belonged. But a series of accidents threatens her beloved fair and puts lives at risk. 

Thriller author Hawthorne Emerson suspects foul play after the first “accident.” Moonlighting as fair security to investigate the death of his sister’s boyfriend, he’s eager to find the truth. He doesn’t expect the task to lead him to the cult he escaped. 

Finding the culprit behind the sabotage is personal for Jazz and Hawthorne. But someone else has a personal stake, too. Someone who wants Jazz dead. When everything she thought was true is dismantled, can Jazz risk trusting others—including God—to survive?  

Lethal Danger continues the thrilling story of the elite Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency that began with Hidden Danger (Guardians Unleashed, #1). (Each book can stand alone or be read as series installments.)

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