Book Review - Present Danger by Elizabeth Goddard

 

Special Agent Jack Tanner left the FBI to become a detective in Montana. During a search and rescue mission, he comes across a body in the national forest. He is determined to find the killer, even if he has to work with his ex-girlfriend,  US Forest Service Special Agent Terra Connors.

Terra discovers the victim had ties to a dangerous person who is trafficking artifacts. As the duo investigates, the investigation takes  a deadly turn and it hits too close to home. Terra feels that she doesn't have the courage to face what she needs to do next. However, Jack is determined to protect Terra at all costs. He felt that he has let her down before and he isn't willing to do it again.

I thought the novel was an interesting read with a few twists and turns. I didn't find that the novel was at the edge of my seat suspenseful even though it had a few unexpected twists. I felt like there was a few things that weren't really resolved and it seems the second book in the series are new characters.  While the characters were interesting, I felt like they were a bit dull for my tastes. I would still be open to reading other books by the author.

Book Review - The Key to Love by Betsy St. Amant

  

 

Bri Duval loves baking and all things about romance. She created her own version of the famous Parisian love-lock wall at her local bakery in Story, Kansas. She never expected that her pet project would become a viral hit. The Trek Magazine sends a travel writer, Gerard Fortier, to write a feature on the bakery. 

Gerard has been burned by love and has no interest in romance. However, when he meets Bri, maybe he will be able to change his mind about romance. Bri wants an epic love story like her parents had and doesn't want to get involved with Gerard, even if he is handsome. 

Just when everything seems to be going perfect, Bri is hit with a series of devastating events that threaten her livelihood and her parents' legacy. She begins to wonder if Gerard's idea of romance might be the right idea after all. Will Bri and Gerard be able to find their happy ending?

I thought the novel was an okay read. It was very slow during some parts of the book. I wasn't fond of the two main characters. I felt like they were both to self absorbed and caught up in their own wants. For example, Bri was so dead set on keeping the bakery she didn't even consider how her two elderly benefactors felt. She had the future of the bakery planned out like she owned it. I hated when Gerard called Bri, "Cupcake", it felt so indigenous and forced. The novel had one unexpected twist and that was its only redeeming quality of this novel. 

 **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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - The Lying Room by Nicci French

 

Neve Connolly is having an affair with her boss, Saul. She thought it was just a fling and something she could have just weathered. It was an escape from her marriage of twenty years. She is tired of the same married routine with her husband and her distant children. One morning, Neve receives a text and decides to visit Saul. When she enters the apartment, she sees Saul has been brutally murdered. She realizes that the apartment is filled of traces of their affair and all the lies she carefully constructed is about to come apart.

Neve decides to scrub every trace of her existence from the apartment. She feels everything can return to normal. However, she feels that she is missing something.

An investigation into Saul's death is opened. This brings Detective Chief Inspector Alastair Hitching to Neve's doorstep. Neve tries to stay on step ahead of the police but, she finds herself caught in her own web of deception and going down a darker path.  As Neve tries to stay ahead of Hitching, she realizes that he isn't the only one watching her.

I had really high hopes for this book but, it was dreadfully boring. It was so slow and didn't really care for any of the characters, especially, her annoying daughter. I didn't like they included so many mundane details that it just made the book boring. They included all these details but, important details appeared out of nowhere. It made me feel like I was missing something. I had hard time believing in the cops, it felt like they were always one step behind. The story didn't feel believable at all. I think I might skip their books the next time.

Book Review - Voices in the Snow (Black Winter, #1) by Darcy Coates

 

 

Clare remembers being out in the cold and being surrounded by snow. She remembers seeing abandoned cars and toys scattered among the road. She recalls seeing dark shapes in the snow and being afraid. And then she doesn't remember anything afterwards.

Clare wakes up in a strange gothic home. She has no recollection on how she got there. The stranger tells her that she was in a car accident and he found her in the snow. Clare feels unsafe and wants to leave but, there is a vicious snowstorm trapping them in the house.

The stranger seems kind but, Clare doesn't know if she can trust him. He told her that they are alone but, she keeps seeing and hearing things. She feels that something is watching them in the woods.  She feels that she is being hunted and she is on edge. She fears that she might not be safe anywhere.

This novel is a departure from her normal horror house stories. Personally, I like her haunted houses stories more. This book is beginning of the series and it looks like you will need to read all the stories to get the full story. The book had creepy elements but, I felt like something was still missing. The characters didn't seem believable. I am not sure I would read the other books from this series.

Book Review - The Sound of Falling Leaves by Lisa Cox Carter

 

Tessa survived a devastating fire that caused her to lose her voice. She retreats to her aunt's apple orchard to heal. She still wants to keep music in her life but, she is struggling after the fire. Tessa decides that she will research and collect folk ballads.  While researching folk ballads she discovers a connection between a murder and a woman who disappeared. Tessa gets a first-hand experience behind the corrupt politicians in the isolated Appalachian community. She has a hard time finding someone to trust.

Tessa finds herself drawn to Zeke. He is the quiet and mysterious caretaker. He tries to show her that mountain justice is neither impartial nor just. Tessa is unsure if she can trust him but, she finds herself drawn to him.

I was very torn reading this novel. There were some moments where I enjoyed reading the characters and then other times, it was like the character snapped. For example, Zeke got annoyed that Tessa was "obsessively" looking for a certain singer when Zeke was doing the same thing. I found the book to be slow during some parts but, it had a few twists. One thing I really didn't like is that on the cover of my copy, Zeke was colored in to appear darker as he is of mixed descent. I am not sure why they just didn't find someone of tan skin instead of coloring in the person's face.

  **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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Nine by Rachelle Dekker

 

 

Zoe Johnson prefers to spend her life living in the shadows. She doesn't like to draw attention to herself or being involved with other people. However, when a disheveled teenager walks into a diner where Zoe works, she feels drawn to the teen. Lucy has no memories and is struggling to figure out what to do next. Zoe is reminded of her own painful memories of the past and wants to help Lucy figure out her own past. Lucy only remembers that she needs to find a woman in Corpus Christi, Texas, which is hundreds of miles away. Lucy and Zoe will need to find the woman before government agents find them.

I found the novel to be a fast-paced and an entertaining read. However, I found the novel to be predictable and had the outcome I expected. I did like that the novel teaches readers that our past doesn't limit our future. It does define us but, we can choose who we want to be. The novel has themes of moving on, love,  accepting ourselves, and forgiveness. I enjoyed reading about the characters growing than the "action" and "suspense" parts of the novel.  I would be open to reading more books by the author but, I wouldn't go out of my way to read her 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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

 

Book Review - Dragonflies at Night by Anne Marie Bennett + Giveaway

 

 

Savannah is the owner of a party planning business called Life Celebrations. Even though Savannah has lost both of her parents as a teenager, she tries to create and foster a positive life for herself. She surrounds herself with friends and coworkers that she treats like family. While Savannah is happy with her life, she yearns to have a family of her own. However, she is afraid of getting sick and leaving her kids without a mother.

Savannah's mom, Deirdre Rose continues to watch over Savannah. Deirdre leaves "gifts" of dragonflies to let her Savannah know she is being watched over.

Ben is a good looking talented recording artist that is looking for more in life. He is famous but, he constantly feels lonely. He fears trusting people because very few people want to know the real him. He feels that most people just want something from him. 

However, when Savannah and Ben cross paths at a yoga retreat, they feel drawn to each other. They feel a bond that they never felt before. Savannah wants to know the real him and Ben appreciates and understands Savannah's past. But, when their retreat is over, what will become of their relationship?

I thought the novel had an interesting concept of a mother/aunt looking over their child. However, I felt like the novel was moving very slowly. The characters were interesting but, I couldn't stay interested in the novel. If you like cozy romance with elements of magical realism, then this is the book for you.

 

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Dragonflies at Night:

More Than a Love Story

By Anne Marie Bennett

Women's Fiction, Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 365 Pages

September 22, 2020 by KaleidoSoul Media

A dragonfly brings a mother’s love to a grieving daughter.

Meet Savannah, the thirty-something owner of Life Celebrations, a party planning business. Despite losing both parents as a teenager, Savannah is creating a positive life for herself, surrounded by friends and co-workers who are now her family. But she also has a secret—as much as she wants to settle down and have children, she is afraid to, for fear of getting cancer and having to leave them without their mother, as she herself was left behind years ago.

Meet Deirdre Rose, Savannah’s mother. She continues to watch over Savannah, who feels deeply connected to her mother whenever she sees a dragonfly.

Now meet Ben, a thirty-something recording artist who is good-looking, talented, and a household name. Despite his fame, Ben is lonely. He trusts few people because it seems everyone wants something from him instead of getting to know who he really is.

Savannah and Ben cross paths when they meet at a yoga retreat in the Massachusetts Berkshires. They are drawn to each other’s creativity and outlook on life. She sees beyond his celebrity and he admires her strength in what she’s had to overcome.

What happens when the retreat ends and they go their separate ways? Will they be able to make a long distance relationship work? Can Savannah put aside her fears, and will Ben allow himself to be truly vulnerable?

Above all . . . what message do Deirdre Rose and Dragonfly have for both of them?

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About the Author

Anne Marie Bennett was touched by a dragonfly once and has never forgotten its message. She has published books about her cancer journeys and the process of SoulCollage®. This is her first women’s novel.

Website | Goodreads | BookBub | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive an ebook of All You Need is Love and Lilacs, a dragonfly suncatcher, and a $25 Amazon eGift Card (dragonfly suncatcher to US winner only, international winner will receive ebook and gift card only)

Ends October 14, 2020

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Book Review - Universe of Two by Stephen P. Kiernan + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

Charlie Fish just graduated from Harvard during World War II and he assigned to the Manhattan Project.  Charlie works with some of the greatest scientific minds to design and build the detonator of the atomic bomb. As Charlie works on the detonator, he begins to question the mission and how many lives would be affected by the bomb. Brenda, his girlfriend, is unaware of Charlie's work but, tells him that he should "be a man" and not to doubt his work.

However, once the bombs strike Hiroshima and Nagasaki, both Brenda and Charlie are devastated by the impact of his work. After the war ends, Charlie receives a scholarship to receive a Ph.D. in physics at Standford. They hope that this new opportunity will give them a fresh start. When Charlie starts his classes, his new classmates and professors only talk about the bomb and what new weapons they can create. Charlie feels that he is unable to escape his past. Brenda and Charlie decide to dedicate their lives to making amends for creating the atomic bomb.

The novel is an exhilarating love story that has a major focus on war and music. At times, it can be overwhelming with how much detail the author goes into the bomb-making Charlie does at the Hill and the music that Brenda creates. The author tries to weave a story about the evil that was created and the beauty that music creates. I thought the romantic part between Charlie and Brenda was electric and emotional. I felt the pain and devastation as they did when coming to terms with the Atomic bomb and the war. People who love romantic historic fiction will love this novel of two young adults trying to heal their conscience and find peace in a world they helped changed. The story will leave you breathless and your heart aching for a love so deep and powerful during an uncertain time.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Hardcover: 448 pages
Publisher: William Morrow (August 4, 2020)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0062878441
ISBN-13: 978-0062878441

Praise for UNIVERSE OF TWO

“Rarely does historical fiction get everything so right as Universe of Two: compelling characters, faithful detail, a story packed with unexpected twists, and a sure, authentic voice that never wavers. In this novel of the dawn of the atomic age and its profound consequences, Stephen Kiernan leads us along a journey of conscience as complex and infinite as the science itself.” —Beatriz Williams, New York Times bestselling author of The Golden Hour

“Stephen Kiernan has pulled off the nearly impossible, reminding us by wrapping a war story in a love story that although we hold the power for our own extinction, we also have the power to redeem, heal, and save. The most tender, terrifying, relevant book you’ll read this year.” —Jenna Blum, New York Times bestselling author of Those Who Save Us and The Lost Family

“Based loosely on the life of mathematician and organ-maker Charles B. Fisk, this fascinating novel delves into the guilt and remorse that wracked him for his part in the development of the atomic bomb. . . . The two main characters are complex and flawed, but when they come together, their world is in harmony.” —Library Journal

“Kiernan recreates the zeitgeist of America leading up to the atomic bomb on a national and personal level: the eager anticipation of wartime’s end, the grimly fascinating science, and the growing sense of guilt and dread. Simultaneously tender and hard-hitting, this riveting story offers much to reflect upon.” —Booklist

"Universe of Two skillfully educates, entertains and enlightens as great historical fiction should . . . . Masterfully researched and exquisitely told." —The Patriot Ledger

From the critically acclaimed author of The Baker’s Secret and The Curiosity comes a novel of conscience, love, and redemption—a fascinating fictionalized account of the life of Charlie Fisk, a gifted mathematician who was drafted into Manhattan Project and ordered against his morals to build the detonator for the atomic bomb. With his musician wife, he spends his postwar life seeking redemption—and they find it together.

Graduating from Harvard at the height of World War II, brilliant mathematician Charlie Fish is assigned to the Manhattan Project. Working with some of the age’s greatest scientific minds, including J. Robert Oppenheimer, Enrico Fermi, and Leo Szilard, Charlie is assigned the task of designing and building the detonator of the atomic bomb.

As he performs that work Charlie suffers a crisis of conscience, which his wife, Brenda—unaware of the true nature of Charlie’s top-secret task—mistakes as self-doubt. She urges him to set aside his qualms and continue. Once the bombs strike Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the feelings of culpability devastate him and Brenda.

At the war’s end, Charlie receives a scholarship to pursue a PhD in physics at Stanford—an opportunity he and Brenda hope will allow them a fresh start. But the past proves inescapable. All any of his new colleagues can talk about is the bomb, and what greater atomic weapons might be on the horizon. Haunted by guilt, Charlie and Brenda leave Stanford and decide to dedicate the rest of their lives to making amends for the evil he helped to birth into the world.

Based on the life of the actual mathematician Charles B. Fisk, Universe of Two combines riveting historical drama with a poignant love story. Stephen Kiernan has conjured a remarkable account of two people struggling to heal their consciences and find peace in a world forever changed.

You can purchase Universe of Two at the following Retailers:

        

Photo Credit: Beowulf Sheehan

As a journalist and novelist, Stephen P. Kiernan has published nearly four million words. His newspaper work garnered more than forty awards — including the George Polk Award and the Scripps Howard Award for Distinguished Service to the First Amendment.

Stephen’s newest novel, UNIVERSE OF TWO, will be out May 5, 2020. He is also author of the novels THE CURIOSITY (now in television series development), THE BAKER'S SECRET (a regional Indie bestseller), and THE HUMMINGBIRD. He has also written two nonfiction books, LAST RIGHTS and AUTHENTIC PATRIOTISM. His work has been translated into many languages.

Stephen was born in Newtonville, NY the sixth of seven children. A graduate of Middlebury College, he received a Master of Arts degree from Johns Hopkins University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop. He has chaired the board of the Young Writers Project, served on the Vermont Legislative Committee on Pain and Palliative Care, and served on the advisory board of the New Hampshire Palliative Care Initiative. He has spoken and consulted around the country about hospice, palliative care and advance directives.

A performer on the guitar since he was ten years old, Stephen has recorded 3 CDs of solo instrumentals, and composed music for dance, the stage and documentary films.

He lives in Vermont with his two amazing sons.

        

WEEK ONE

AUGUST 3rd MONDAY JeanBookNerd INTERVIEW

AUGUST 4th TUESDAY Two Points of Interest REVIEW 

AUGUST 5th WEDNESDAY Rajiv's Reviews REVIEW

AUGUST 5th WEDNESDAY TTC Books and More REVIEW & GUEST POST

AUGUST 6th THURSDAY Movies, Shows, & Books EXCERPT 

AUGUST 7th FRIDAY Reading Adventures of a Book Dragon EXCERPT 

WEEK TWO

AUGUST 10th MONDAY Ya It's Lit REVIEW

AUGUST 11th TUESDAY Gwendalyn's Books REVIEW 

AUGUST 12th WEDNESDAY Crossroad Reviews REVIEW
AUGUST 12th WEDNESDAY A Dream Within A Dream EXCERPT

AUGUST 13th THURSDAY BookHounds REVIEW & INTERVIEW

AUGUST 14th FRIDAY My Fictional Oasis REVIEW 

AUGUST 14th FRIDAY Insane About Books REVIEW

*JBN is not responsible for Lost or Damaged Books in your Nerdy Mail Box*

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Book Review - Belladonna by Anbara Salam

Photo Credit - Amazon

Isabella is the beloved popular girl that everyone wants to befriend. Bridget, her best friend, is the exact opposite of each other. Bridget keeps to herself but, she watches everyone, especially Isabella.

The girls graduate school and land spots in a coveted art school in Northern Italy. The Accademia di Belle Arti di Pentila is housed in a silent nun convent. The duo was happy to be away from their family and have their freedom.  Bridget is happy because she is free to reinvent herself and no one will discriminate her for being an outsider due to her Egyptian roots.

I thought this novel moved very slowly and was boring. I didn't take an interest in any of the characters. I felt like Bridget only cared about herself and Isabella. She showed very little regard for other people. Isabelle was just using Bridget as a pawn in her own little game. I feel like the author could have gone into more details for some things especially, Bridget's family.

**Disclosure -  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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Her Surprise Engagement by Cari Lynn Webb + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

Nichole Moore is a single mom and needs help with selling her app. She reaches out to an old friend and pro quarterback Chase Jacobs. Their ruse of a pretend marriage will help both of them secure their future. Chase's celebrity status will impress the executives who are trying to buy Nichole's app. While Nichole's safe and sensible personality will help tame the wild child image that Chase has garnered. As their fake relationship begins to play out, Nichole and Chase start to realize that they might be falling for each other.

The novel is a perfect read for readers who like a cozy romantic read. I thought the characters were well developed and likable. I felt that Nichole shouldn't have lied to her son about her relationship with Chase. Thankfully, since this a heartwarming romance novels, things have a way of working out for the best.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

 

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Her Surprise Engagement

(City by the Bay Stories #6)
By Cari Lynn Webb
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
July 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

A football star and a single mom…

Teach each other to trust again

To impress the executives buying her app, Nichole Moore enlists the help of old friend and pro quarterback Chase Jacobs. A pretend marriage is the perfect ruse: Chase’s celebrity status will impress the executives, while likable, hardworking Nichole could fix his fading career. But as their fake relationship plays out under the glare of the public eye, Nichole realizes her feelings might be the real deal…

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | Target | iBooks | Kobo | Harlequin

Other Books in the Series

About the Author

Cari Lynn Webb lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughters and assorted four-legged family members. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers. Visit her at her website.

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive a $50 Amazon gift card and the Return of the Blackwell Brothers Continuity Series with a book tote bag. (5 Print Books & tote bag to US Residents only, E-copies to anyone outside the US).

Ends July 22, 2020

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Book Review - Rodin's Lover by Heather Webb

Photo Credit - Amazon

Camille Claudel is a young aspiring sculptor. However, because she is a woman, she has plenty of critics including her own overly traditional mother. When renowned sculptor, Auguste Rodin makes Camille his apprentice and muse, their passion ignites their creativity to create breathtaking pieces of work. Even though, Camille is a talented sculptor her success his overshadowed by Rodin's gaining popularity and her gender. Her obsession with creating art and her relationship with Rodin is slowly driving her down the path of madness.

I thought that the novel was an interesting read. It was heartbreaking to read Camille's struggle with mental illness and being treated as an inferior sculptor because of her gender. I didn't like that Camille and Rodin's love affair was considered to be "passionate" but, there was a lot of childish "he loves but, I don't like him...even if I do" scenes.  At times, I found it hard to understand and feel for Camille as she was very sharp and cruel to many of the people who were close to her. I believe the author did this to show Camille's mental state but, I felt it made it hard to root for her. I did like that author included names of Camille's artwork and I thought many of them were beautiful when I did look them up. It was heartbreaking that she didn't receive the same acclaim as her Rodin however, I am glad that a few of her pieces survived.

**Disclosure -  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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - The Shadows by Alex North

Photo Credit - Amazon

In the small town of Gritten Park, there lives an unstable teenager named Charlie Crabtree. Every town has at least one kid who has a dark imagination, a sinister smile and is an outcast. People always suspect that they are capable of doing something awful and it was only a matter of when.

Twenty-five years ago, Charlie committed a heinous murder. It was a murder so shocking that it has attracted a fanbase on the darkest corner of the internet. The murder has inspired more than one copycat with countless others following the case closely.

Paul Adams remembers the murder and moved away in hopes of forgetting the murder. Charlie and the victim were Paul's friends. After moving away, Paul has finally gotten his life together. When his mother suffers a fall and takes a turn for the worse, Paul decides to move back home. Paul doesn't want to return home but, he feels duty-bound to his mother to see her.

Shortly after Paul returns home, things start going wrong. Paul learns that there is a copycat murder in the nearby town. His senile mother is getting distressed and mentions that something is in the house. Paul realizes that someone is following him and he is worried that it might be Charlie who hasn't been seen since the day of the murder.

I haven't read the first novel by the author but, this novel can be read as a standalone. I felt like there were a few references made to the previous book that I didn't quite understand. I thought the book was a thrilling and engaging read. The book will keep you up at night wondering if there is something out there in the shadows. I look forward to reading other books by the author.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner

Photo Source - Amazon

After World War II ends, a group of people who have one thing in common decides to create a society for likeminded people in Chawton.  The group comes all walks of life -- a worker, a house servant, a young widow, a doctor, a movie star, and a lawyer.

One hundred and fifty years ago, Chawton was the final home of Jane Austen. Austen is one of England's most notable authors. Chawton is now home to a few residents and their crumbling estates. When Austen's legacy is threatened, the group decided to work together to preserve Jane's home and legacy.  Each of the members is struggling with their private struggles but, together they hope to create something that can outlast them.

The book started good but, then slowly towards the end I felt like the book started dragging. I must admit that I  have not read any of her books (but, I have read similar books and have enjoyed them) so, maybe that's why I didn't enjoy the book. I couldn't connect with any of the characters and I didn't like the ending. I didn't like some of the choices the characters made. I didn't understand the motivation behind their choices. I felt like the ending was a bit rushed and everything tied up neatly in a bow. I wish that there was enough "mystery" and "delight" spread throughout the novel. I felt like this cozy read might be perfect for Jane Austen fans but, sadly, it wasn't for me.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - The Heart of a King by Jill Eileen Smith

Photo Credit - Amazon

King Solomon was known for his wealth and wisdom. He could get anything he wanted, including many wives and concubines. King Solomon had four women he loved: Naamah was his first wife, Abishag was his father's caretaker, Siti was a daughter of a pharaoh and Nicaula was the queen of Sheba. Even with all his wisdom, was Solomon or his wives ever truly happy?

I was torn between liking this novel and hating it. I felt like the novel went into details for some trivial things and then other things were just glossed over. The novel seemed like it was all over the place and that I didn't get to know anything. I think this mostly applied to Solomon's wives. We get to know a bit of them before they get married and then a bit more after their marriage. Then they mostly fade into the background of the story. He also sings the same line of poetry to each of his wives, it makes me wonder if he was actually in love with any of them. The author does portray different sides of Solomon and his life but, it wasn't enough to keep me interested.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Formula for a Perfect Life by Christy Hayes + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

College student Kayla Cummings is a hopeless romantic. She has dreams of the perfect life with husband and kids. However, her dreams are dashed after finding out she is pregnant from a one-night stand with her secret crush. Kayla is devasted and unsure of what she needs to do. She turns to her best friends and roommates for advice. The only thing she does know for certain is that she will need to tell the father.

Ben Strickland's future has been written in stone by his parents. He has zero margins for error. He needs to get a decent score on the LSAT since failed the first time. Ben is struggling to juggle his upcoming finals along with his demanding girlfriend Darcy. However, when Kayla shows up on his doorstep claiming to be pregnant, Ben's control on his life begins to further spin out of control.

Ben and Kayla have to work together to figure out how they are going to handle their unplanned pregnancy. Will the be able to forget past hurts and buried secrets to forge a new path together?

The novel is a cozy romantic read. It was a predictable read as there weren't many unexpected surprised or deep dark secrets. There was the usage of adult language that at times felt like a bit much. However, I have been in relationships and heard of stories of women being referred to that way. So, it was a bit realistic. The book would be a good read for fans of cozy heartwarming romantic reads.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

Formula for a Perfect Life By Christy Hayes

  

Christian New Adult Contemporary Romance 

Paperback & ebook, 323 Pages

 March 30th 2020

Two practical strangers. One fateful night. Two pink lines.

College senior and obsessive romantic Kayla Cummings' dreams of a storybook life are spun off course by an unplanned pregnancy after a one-night stand with her secret crush. Devastated, Kayla turns to her roommates and best friends for advice. No matter what she decides, no matter how deeply embarrassed, she has to tell the father.

Ben Strickland’s future is written in stone—as long as he gets a decent score on the Law School Admission Test. Feeling pressure from all sides, Ben struggles to juggle his upcoming finals, another shot at the LSAT, and his needy girlfriend Darcy. When the girl he spent a memorable night with weeks ago shows up at his doorstep pregnant, his already chaotic life spins out of control.

With the clock ticking, decisions to make, and a boatload of people to disappoint, Ben and Kayla embark on a journey neither anticipated—a journey where falling in love might be the biggest surprise of all. But when old hurts and buried secrets pose a greater threat to their future than impending parenthood, will Ben and Kayla go their separate ways or forge a new path to happy ever after?

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About the Author

Christy Hayes lives outside Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband and dogs. Christy writes Contemporary Romance, New Adult Romance, Christian Romance, and Women's Fiction. When not writing, she’s reading, walking dogs, or stalking her college-aged kids on social media.

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Three winners will receive an ebook of Maybe It's You by Christy Hayes Open internationally Ends April 8, 2020

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Book Review - Mermaid Moon by Susann Cokal

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Sanna is a mermaid but, she is half landish. When Sanna was born, an old sea witch cast a forgetting spell that made Sanna, her mother, her father, and her people forget the details of her birth including her mother. When Sanna turns sixteen years old, she decides to find her mother as she feels like an outsider in her seavish flok. Determined to find her roots and identity, she apprentices herself to the sea witch who cast the spell on her and her family.

After learning the magic to make a pair of legs for herself, she decides to follow the clues to the location of her mother. Before she leaves, the sea witch gives her a cryptic quest to complete. As Sanna begins her journey, her flok wait for her news on her journey. While on land, Sanna comes across a village who is desperate for a miracle and a baroness who will stop at nothing to live forever.

I was quite torn with this review. I thought the novel was beautifully written but, then at times, it was just too much. I was more than 85% done with the book before I couldn't be bothered anymore. The story progressed so slowly that the story didn't even progress in 50 pages. It was mostly 50 pages of atmosphere building or Sanna debating what to do or the sea life that lives on the old witch's body. I wasn't a fan of the different points of view because I felt like it added little to the story. I wanted to enjoy this book more because I love a good tale. I am still looking forward to other books by the author.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Almost Home by Valerie Fraser Luesse

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When America entered World War II, the small town of Blackberry Springs, Alabama grew overnight. Workers from all over are coming south for jobs in the factories. Dolly Chandler's family is going through a hard time and decides to turn her family home into a boardinghouse to accommodate the worker boom. Each one of Dolly's boarders is bringing a bit of the past with them along with their hopes for the future.

A couple from the Midwest who is going through a tough time in their marriage, a pair of married unemployed professors from Chicago, a widower from Mississippi, and a young veteran who is struggling to heal from the war. They each are hoping that they can heal at Dolly's house and find their back in the real world.  However, the house has a past that it's waiting to reveal to the boarders.

When an accident occurs and threatens Dolly's livelihood, she has to rely on her band of friends for help. Will the group of friends be able to solve the mystery of the missing young bride and pirate?

I thought the novel was a fun read. The novel was told from two different perspectives of a young woman in a failing marriage and a veteran returning from the war.  I found the middle of the novel to move a bit slow but, I did enjoy all the characters. I found the ending bittersweet and it felt like I was saying goodbye to a good friend when I finished reading the book. I am looking forward to reading more books by the author.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Windfall by Jennifer E. Smith

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Alice never really believe in luck as she had her fair share of bad luck. However, she still believes in love. Alice has been in love with her best friend, Teddy for years. When Teddy's eighteen birthday arrives, she buys him a lottery ticket attaching a note professing her love for him. The unimaginable happens and Teddy wins the lottery.

Teddy and his mother are overjoyed by the news because they have been struggling financially At first, they are stunned by their good luck but, then  Teddy gets swept up in the fame and fortune of being the youngest winner of $140 million.  With Teddy's sudden influx of cash, things between him and Alice begin to change.

I found the novel to be a fun and entertaining read. It was interesting to see how different people would spend their lottery winnings. I enjoyed most of the characters but, did find them to be a bit annoying. Alice was so blinded by her grief and then her love for Teddy that she didn't take the time to considered other people around her. While I understand and appreciate her need to give money to the less fortunate (I loved Teddy's idea in the end on what to do with his wealth), I didn't like that she was trying to force her way on Teddy. Especially when she mentioned her main motivation behind volunteering. I wish there was more development on some of the characters but, overall it was a nice cozy young adult romance novel.

 **Disclosure -  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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - The Refuge by Ann H. Gabhart

Photo Credit - Amazon

Darcie and Walter Goodwin decide to join the local Shaker village when a new cholera epidemic hits their area. The Shaker village seems to be immune to the disease and once, the threat passes, the Goodwins will leave the community. During a routine trip into town, Walter is killed in a riverboat accident.

Darcie is devastated by the news and but, she has nowhere else to go. She has no family and money along with being pregnant with a child. The Shaker community is celibate people who believe in marital relationships to be sinful.  Darcie feels isolated and alone because of her pregnancy. However, when Darcie crosses path with Flynn Keller and his daughter, will Darcie be able to find her path to happiness?

This was the first novel I ever read about the Shaker community. I thought some of their ideas were a bit "strange" especially, the procreation portion and referring to our parents as "sister" or "brother". However, I also like many of their ideas, such as, providing a haven for everyone, being an inclusive community, and ensuring everyone having a role to play. I liked all the characters except for one of the characters, who tried to murder someone and nothing happened to her. I liked that each of the characters was flawed but, found someone else or a community to help bring out the best of themselves.

**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 extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**