Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Book Review - The Treasure of Granzella Ranch by Joan Bannan

Photo Credit - Amazon

The Granzella family ranch has been in the family for four generation. Recently, the ranch has been struggling financially. Sherre Granzella is professionally known as "The Fixer". She hopes to return the farm to its former glory. She is happy to be surrounded by friends and family after her marriage failed. Surrounded by loved ones, she tries to formulate a plan to help save the family farm. Will she succeed?

The novel was a fun cozy read. The story was a bit predictable but, it was still a good read. The characters were relatable but, I found myself annoyed a bit with Sherre's character. When reading this novel, I was going through a similar romantic situation, and I know how hard it is to let go but. I was very disappointed when she went back to him. I felt like she is supposed to be a strong female lead but, they make her look weak. Overall, it is a good read.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no any extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**


Monday, October 22, 2018

Book Review - A Duel for Christmas by Rosanne E. Lortz + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

After spending seven years in Devon, Lady Maud Worlington returns to London. However, she is returning on her own terms but, someone is ruining her chances of happiness. After an impulsive but, life alternating kiss with the Duke of Tilbury,  Maud is unsure what to do. She is happy to have him as a suitor but, fears that he is inexperienced.

Geoffrey, the Duke of Tilbury is quite smitten with Lady Worlington. But finds his plans to marry her being foiled by her complicated life and her other suitors. However, when an sudden death occurs; Geoffrey is the prime suspect. Will Geoffrey and Maud be able to find their happy ending?

I enjoyed reading this book as it aspects of suspense, mystery, and romance.  The book was a bit slow at first but picked up towards the end. I felt the attraction between the main characters was a bit quick and unrealistic but, it was still an enjoyable read.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no any extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

About the Book

Book Title: A Duel For Christmas
Author: Rosanne E. Lortz
Genre: Regency Romance, Romantic Suspense
Release date: October 1, 2018

After seven long years in Devon, Lady Maud Worlington returns to London to reclaim life on her own terms, but a nefarious shadow and the prospect of financial ruin dog her steps. An impulsive and unforgettable kiss under the mistletoe creates a connection with Geoffrey, the handsome, young Duke of Tilbury. Yet as pleasant as it is to have a suitor, Maud is not sure how a boy of one-and-twenty can prove an equal partner in life and the equal of all the forces mounted against her.
 
The Duke of Tilbury considers himself as adept at managing matters as he is at swordplay, but his beautiful new acquaintance Lady Worlington has other ideas about how to manage her complicated life. Intrigued by their stolen kiss, Geoffrey pursues Lady Worlington’s affections, only to be foiled by the lady’s own doubts, by rivals for her hand, and by a sudden death that affects both their 
families. When Jacob Pevensey, the investigator from Bow Street enters the scene, the duke becomes a prime suspect in the murder case. Truths are unearthed that Geoffrey would rather keep hidden, and the twelve days of Christmas race toward a perilous end.



About the Author

Author Photo 
Rosanne E. Lortz is a writer, editor, teacher, history-lover, and mom to four boys. She loves to read, sing, draw, compose, write, and create. Education is one of her passions, particularly a classical, liberal arts education. She has taught English composition and grammar, Latin, history, music, and various other subjects for ten years at both the elementary and secondary level and is currently the Director of Academics and Admissions at Paideia Classical Christian School in Gladstone, Oregon.
Rosanne’s first book, I Serve: A Novel of the Black Prince, released in 2009. This book explores the tumultuous landscape surrounding the Hundred Years’ War and the Black Death and is a tale of arms, of death, of love, and of honor. In 2015, Rosanne began her Pevensey mysteries, novels of romantic suspense set during the British Regency (with inspiration from medieval characters and events). The first three titles are: To Wed an Heiress, The Duke’s Last Hunt, and A Duel for Christmas.



Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Rosanne is giving away a $25 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/d434/a-duel-for-christmas-celebration-tour-giveaway

Sunday, October 21, 2018

Book Review - Shadows' Sorrow by Galadriel Pittman + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

An ancient evil that once laid slumbered has awakened. No one is safe and the world is thrown into peril. Deinya, a young warrior decides to accept the quest from his master. His life changes dramatically when he runs into Tara, a thief. Will Deinya be able to save the world?

The book was a fun and interesting read. It was a fun and action-packed adventure filled novel. The characters were fun to read about. Overall, an enjoyable read.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no any extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

About the Book


Book Title: Shadows’ Sorrow
Author: Galadriel Pittman
Genre: Fantasy
Release date: May 18, 2018

“I will become these shadows’ sorrow. I swear.”

A disillusioned guardian, a four-footed philosopher, an honorable thief, Trouble, and an unexpected inheritance against the end of the world? Bring it on.

An ancient evil has recently reawakened. Raven, a young Deinya warrior disillusioned with his people, has accepted a quest from his one-time master for old time’s sake. But when he catches a thief, Tara, his life hurls down an unforeseen path. With the help of others they meet along the way, they race to find the secret to the Rakon’s downfall before the nations again succumb to darkness.

About the Author

author SSphoto 

I am Galadriel Pittman, a mother of two, wife to a supportive amazing husband, daughter, sister, friend, worship singer, school cafe manager…the list goes on. I am blessed with many roles to fill. And now, finally, author. Some of my earliest memories are of my parents reading to me–Chronicles of Narnia, Xanth series, Lord of the Rings…but they never read them fast enough for my liking. So, I learned to read. As a voracious reader from the age of three, my goal as a child was to read every book in the world! Sadly, reality dictated that there were more books than what my town library held, and new ones entered all the time! Perhaps taking a sideways step in that dream to become one who created those new entries is not surprising. As a child I enjoyed telling my younger siblings stories, and as a teen, I created my world with a friend. Over the years, I added to that tale. Recently, I decided I wanted to find out what happens next— so here we go!

For more information and updates on books, go to galadrielpittman.com or find me on Facebook at Galadriel Pittman

Giveaway

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To celebrate her tour, Galadriel is giving away a a themed basket that includes a color copy of my world’s map, a journal, a day planner, a pen, a pen carrier, a mug and some tea packets!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/d435/shadows-sorrow-celebration-tour-giveaway

Saturday, October 20, 2018

Book Review - Beautiful Bad by Annie Ward

Photo Credit - Amazon

Maddie and Ian met during a chance encounter overseas. He served as a bodyguard while Maddie was a travel writer visiting her best friend, Jo. After a few ups and downs, Maddie and Ian get married and have a son, Charlie. They are living the American dream. During a family camping trip, Maddie endured a horrifying accident leaving her badly scarred and unable to remember the accident. Maddie begins writing therapy with a therapist to help her remember and find the cause of her anxiety.

The novel alternates between the past, present, and "The Day of the Killing". The novel was a good read but towards halfway into the book, I lost interest. I found it hard to like any of the characters or empathize with them. I couldn't relate to any of the characters. Overall, the book was a decent read but, the ending was a complete disappointment. I felt like the ending was rushed and confusing.


**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no any extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Friday, October 19, 2018

Book Review - Murder by Perfection by Lauren Carr + Giveaway


All Jessica Faraday wanted was to spend time with her partner, Murphy Thornton. For their date night, they were going to take a gourmet cooking course together. However, the chef, Natalie Stepford ends up dead and Murphy goes missing. Will the Thorny Rose detectives be able to solve the mystery?

Lauren Carr writes a classic whodunit novel that leaves reader guessing up until the very end. The plot line has many twists and leaves readers in suspense. A great and interesting book, I can't wait to read more of Carr's drama filled books!

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no any extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.** 
 
Book Details:

Book Title: Murder by Perfection by Lauren Carr
Series: Thorny Rose Mystery Series (Volume 3)
Category: Adult fiction, 322 pages
Genre: Murder Mystery
Publisher: Acorn Book Services
Release date: May 31, 2018
Tour dates: Oct 8 to Nov 2, 2018
Content Rating: PG (mild violence and sexual suggestion)

Book Description:

Perfection can be a fatal endeavor.

Frustrated with their busy schedules, Murphy Thornton and Jessica Faraday attempt to find togetherness by scheduling a weekly date night. The last thing Jessica Faraday expected for her date night was to take a couple’s gourmet cooking course at the Stepford Kitchen Studio, owned by Chef Natalie Stepford―the model of perfection in looks, home, and business.

When Natalie ends up dead and Murphy goes missing, the Thorny Rose detectives must peel back the layers of Natalie Stepford’s life to discover that the pursuit of perfection can be deadly.


Buy the Book:

Watch the book trailer:




Meet the Author:



Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty titles across three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!

Now, Lauren has added one more hit series to her list with the Chris Matheson Cold Case Mysteries. Set in the quaint West Virginia town of Harpers Ferry, Ice introduces Chris Matheson, a retired FBI agent, who joins forces with other law enforcement retirees to heat up those cold cases that keep them up at night.

Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, crime fiction, police procedurals, romance, and humor.

Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.

Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram


Enter the Giveaway!
Ends Nov 10, 2018


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Wednesday, October 17, 2018

Book Review - How We Got to Now: Six Innovations That Made the Modern World by Steven Johnson

Photo Credit - Amazon

Living in a country where we have access to clean water, electricity, and indoor plumbing, we sometimes take simple luxuries for granted. Most people take for granted small luxuries that weren't available to the masses a few years ago. Innovation doesn't start overnight, most people notice a problem and utilize discoveries to create new solutions. This book highlights six innovations that helped make the modern world as we know it today. The book is organized into six topics - glass, cold, sound, clean, time, light.


I found the book to be interesting and informative. It was easy to read and understand. I like how the book connected ice blocks to movie theaters and modern conveniences such as fridges.  I found the book to be enjoyable and perfect for all ages. The book reminded me of my history textbooks but, this was definitely more fun to read.


**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no any extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.** 

Sunday, October 14, 2018

Book Review - An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

Photo Credit - Amazon

Jessica Farris is living paycheck to paycheck. However, when she comes across a lucrative offer to do a psychology study with Dr. Shields, Jessica assume it would be an easy payday. As Jessica becomes more involved with the study, the questions become more invasive and intense. She starts to wonder if Dr. Shields knows what she is hiding. Jessica fears her sense of reality when she realizes that is in one of Dr. Shields' manipulative experiment.

The novel reads like an intense cat and mouse game which leaves readers wondering who is the actual prey. The book has a few plot twists but, many of them were predictable. The novel leaves readers with questions about how much can you really trust those you know. Along with how far will someone go to get what they want.

This is the second novel from the authors who wrote "The Wife Between Us". After reading their first books, I had such high hopes for this book. While the book was a good and thrilling read, I prefer their first novel.

**Disclosure - I received a free uneditted copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no any extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.** 

Friday, October 12, 2018

Book Review - Beatrice Zinker Upside Down Thinker Incognito by Shelley Johannes + Giveaway

Photo Source - Amazon
Beatrice Zinker is excited that Operation Upside is in full effect. However, when she hopes to brighten her strict teacher's mood, she lands herself in hot water. Mrs. Tamarack is suspicious of Beatrice is behind the giving her the award of being the strictest teacher. The team has to pause their operation to avoid being caught. Beatrice has a hard time lying low when she sees her friend, Wes needs to be cheered up.  However, no good deal goes unpunished and the certificate ends up in the wrong hands which, might threaten their entire operation.

The second book in the series, can be read as a standalone novel. I found the book to be fun and zany to read. I like the central message of the book is showing kindness and appreciation. While the book was fun to read, I found the drawings and Beatrice borderline annoying. However, as I am an adult, she might be entertaining to the target audience.




**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no any extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

About the Book:
Title: BEATRICE ZINKER UPSIDE DOWN THINKER INCOGNITO
Author: Shelley Johannes 
Pub. Date: September 18, 2018
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, audiobook
Pages: 224
Find it: GoodreadsAmazonB&NiBooksTBD

In book two of the Beatrice Zinker series, Operation Upside is finally in full swing! But when Beatrice's over-enthusiasm lands Mrs. Tamarack with a Strictest Certificate, the team has to scale back a bit.

Lying low is not exactly Beatrice's strong suit, especially when she sees someone who desperately needs to be recognized. But when the certificate meant for him falls into the wrong hands, Beatrice and Lenny have to find a way to widen their circle once again to save Operation Upside, and themselves, from trouble.




About Shelley:
Before becoming an author-illustrator, Shelley began her creative career with ten years in architecture—where she fell in love with felt-tip pens, tracing paper, and the greatness of black turtlenecks. She currently lives in Metro Detroit, Michigan with her husband and two sons.

Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker is the first book she's written. She looks forward to more upside down adventures with Beatrice.



Giveaway Details:

3 winners will win a finished copy of BEATRICE ZINKER UPSIDE DOWN THINKER INCOGNITO, US Only.


Rafflecopter link:


Tour Schedule:
 
Week Two:
10/8/2018- RhythmicbooktrovertReview
10/9/2018- Christen Krumm- Review
10/10/2018- For the Love of KidLitSpotlight
10/11/2018- BookHounds YAReview
10/12/2018- Two Points of Interest- Review