The Best Intentions

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EDEN, SARAH M.

THE BEST INTENTIONS

In the eyes of London Society, Gillian Phelps is suitable enough. Though the ton whispers about her change of residence, any speculation remains just that: ballroom gossip. No one -- not even the other Huntresses, the group of ladies she calls her dearest friends -- knows that she is harbouring a devastating family secret. Gillian has become adept at hiding the reality of her circumstances, but the close quarters of a house party will test her ability to conceal the crushing truth. And wish so many people to deceive, the late arrival of another guest is a most unwelcome surprise.

Despite his standing as a gentleman of the ton, in truth, Scott Sarvol possesses little more than two debt-riddled estates. When an opportunity arises to survey one of his properties, he travels north, only to find himself  an unwitting guess at Artemis Jonquil's house party. He is warmly welcomed by all -- except the aloof Miss Gillian Phelps. But when Scott proves himself unexpectedly helpful in a crisis, his acquaintance with Gillian shifts from wariness to something warmer.

As both her charade and her feelings for Scott deepen, Gillian realizes that the truth could spell not only a devastating fall from Society but also a shattered heart.

My Review:

Sublimely happy sigh of supreme bibliophile joy! Sarah M. Eden does it to me every time, so why haven't I caught up on all her books yet?! That will definitely be a 2023 goal. 

I made some headway this year but petered out with the Jonquils though I have read some of that series so I was thrilled to meet up with this delightful family in 'The Best Intentions' too. Rest assured that this reads fine even if you haven't made any Jonquil acquaintances yet. I haven't read Artemis and Charlie's story either, which I think, introduces the Huntresses concept, but I had no problem diving right into this first of the Huntresses series.

And can I say, I just love that concept?! Young ladies with unique challenges who band together to support each other and make lasting friendships. The best kind of exclusive club ever! My guess is that each lady is going to get her own book and Eden has introduced them all in such a way that I am mightily intrigued and can't wait for more! Especially if they are as good as Gillian's story!

This author is known for writing witty banter and she doesn't disappoint here. Flirtations, heart-to-hearts, even haughty rebuffs were all swoonworthy to this Regency Romance lover. And I love the historical details the author has included -- from fashion, to games, to the ridiculous ins and outs of high society and a myriad other things as well. Makes it so easy to lose sense of time and place in my real world!

I can't say a whole lot about the romance without posting spoilers. Let's just say exquisite is too tame a word to describe the depths of emotion, the heights of giddy excitement and the profoundly thought-provoking moments. Of course, the hope for a happily ever after is not without complications which just made the read all the richer. And I will happily report that I figured out a solution to their major problem way before Gillian and Scott did. I'm pretty chuffed about that -- though it was a bit nerve-racking when neither hero or heroine heeded my advice. :-)

I listened to the audible edition expertly narrated by Luone Ingram. She does most, if not all, of Eden's book narrations and I love the familiarity of that partnership.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- Winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  The Best Intentions, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday December 17 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

Millstone of Doubt

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VETSCH, ERICA

MILLSTONE OF DOUBT

Regency London's detective duo is back on a new case -- and this one is going to be a killer.

Caught in the explosion of the Hammersmith Mill in London, Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann rushes to help any survivors only to find the mill's owner dead of an apparent gunshot.

Even though the owner's daughter, Agatha Montgomery, mourns his death,  it seems there are more than a few people with motive for murder. But Daniel can't take this investigation slow and steady. Instead, he must dig through all the suspects as quickly as he can, because the clock is ticking until his mysterious patronage -- and his job as a runner -- comes to an abrupt and painful end. It seems to Daniel that, like his earthly father, his Heavenly Father has abandoned him to the fates.

Lady Juliette Thorndike is Agatha's bosom friend and has the inside knowledge of the wealthy London ton to be invaluable to Daniel. She should be in a perfect position to help with the case. Still, her instructor in the art of spy craft orders her to stay out of the investigation. But circumstances intervene, dropping her into the middle of the deadly pursuit.

When a dreadful accident ends in another death on the mill floor, Daniel discovers a connection to his murder case -- and to his own secret past. Now he and Juliette are in a race to find the killer before his time runs out.

My Review:

Squeeeepppppp -- this is me fan-girling all over this series. I love the mix of mystery and Regency and all the cloak and dagger bits. Daniel is a Bow Street Investigator but Juliette is apprenticing in the family biz -- spies for the Crown. :-) Is that not spectacular? Of course their paths cross and they end up working together in some ways but...

Okay, here's where I need to say right up front that the Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries need to be read in order. This is the second book so you really should read 'The Debutante's Code' first. It covers a ton of backstory for both characters and setting and some of that story arc -- especially Daniel's -- carries into this book in a spectacular fashion. Plus the romance -- fainting couches required! -- is a slow build through both books. Each does have its own mystery though.

Speaking of which -- woohoo -- I figured out two key mystery plot points in 'Millstone of Doubt'. I do believe I might make Bow Street Runner someday. :-) But there's also a few loose threads left dangling so I'm eager to get a hold of the third book asap...only it's not out yet. Sob! And I can't find out any info on it either. Patience is a virtue, as they say. Sigh.

I listened to Kim Bretton's excellent narration. There's something extra swoony about listening to a Regency with all the right accents.

Goal Update: #5 Diversify my reading, #7 Stay current with a series.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

PLEASE NOTE: Because it is important to read Debutante's Code before Millstone of Doubt, this giveaway is for EITHER book. Just let me know in the comments which book you are entering to win.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  Millstone of Doubt OR The Debutante's Code, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday December 10 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

To Capture His Heart

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ALLEN, NANCY CAMPBELL

TO CAPTURE HIS HEART

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 favour. 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.

My Review:

Swoonalicious!

A friends to more romance trope with villainy afoot, set at country house party? Yes please!!!! Oh, there's also a bit of mama matchmaking going on so our hero and heroine must pretend to be besotted with each other to avoid all the shenanigans. Only there's no pretence needed because they are...except neither knows the other is...well, it's complicated. Bwahahaha!

Funny and endearing and exciting with a dash of ominous danger! All combine to make this an enchanting, breezy read. The banter! The toe-curling kisses!! The subtle longing glances across a crowded room!!! The not so subtle -- audacious in fact -- winks from our irrepressible hero!!!! Fans and fainting couches are necessary accruements for this deliciously captivating read.

But there's a sinister twist to this tale as well and, luckily, our heroine is no shrinking violet. Love how Nathan and Eva work together to solve the mystery. She is  a crime scene photographer, after all. And I love the way Nathan's instinct to protect is tempered by his appreciation for Eva's capabilities. It helps that his mother supports the suffragette movement and has raised his four sisters to be strong, independent thinkers. Eva fits in well! 

This is the second book in the Matchmaker's series, but it can be read as a standalone. The series features three cousins who have moved to London to live with their independent and very unique aunt. The first book was about Amelie and some of those characters spill over into this one but not in a way that would be confusing to a new-to-the-series reader. I'm excited to discover what's in store for Charlotte next. Hopefully we won't have long to wait! Don't even have a title though, let alone a release date. Ack!

Goal Update: #5 Diversify my reading, #6 Stay current with a series

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  To Capture His Heart, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday November 12 2022 . Offer open to International Readers. 

The Cryptographer's Dilemma

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RANDOM RETRO READ

ALEXANDER, JOHNNIE

THE CRYPTOGRAPHER'S DILEMMA

A code breaker uncovers a Japanese spy ring

FBI cryptographer Eloise Marshall is grieving the death of her brother, who died during the attack on Pearl Harbor, when she is assigned to investigate a seemingly innocent series of letters about dolls. Agent Phillip Clayton is ready to enlist and head overseas when asked to work one more FBI job. A case of traitorous messages disguised as correspondence about dolls should be easy, but not so when the clues take Eloise and Phillip on a cross-country trek that has them both confronting past demons and an unmistakable attraction.

Eloise believes the letter refer to classified intel about U.S. warships, but can she prove it in time to catch the spy? Or, before she and Phillip are permanently separated?

Heroines of WWII : Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates unsung heroes -- the women of WWII

My Review:

published in 2021

This is my introduction to the 'Heroines of WWII' series and I have to say I'm impressed! It's a favourite fictional era of mine and I'm always amazed at all the interesting angles authors find to delve deeper into this time in history.

My typical WWII reads are set in Europe or England so I'm always excited to discover a novel that features a 'Homefront' angle and this homegrown spy story based on actual events (!!!!) blew me away! Really, I had no idea! And the way the author has woven together fact and fiction to make a compelling read fills me with all kinds of bookish glee.

So we have our heroine, Eloise -- an intriguing mix of brilliant mind and outward bravado that conceals a few insecurities. And she's also a woman of mystery which upped the intrigue all the more!

Then there's Phillip -- disgruntled and grumpy over a personal 'failure' that keeps him from serving his country the way he would like. He still wants to enlist, though, except he has to complete one last mission for the FBI first. One where he's paired up with a civilian! A female one at that! Oh the horrors. lol 

But Phillip's impatience turns to admiration when he realizes that Eloise's codebreaking skills are the key to opening up their investigation. Loved the journey Alexander takes her characters on -- both physically and emotionally. The historical details are really well done -- especially the codebreaking which is so fascinating. I haven't read anything like this before so I really enjoyed the fresh approach to the genre.

And then there's the forbidden (for so many reasons) romance that slowly draws Phillip and Eloise closer...and complicates everything just a bit. :-)

Seriously, need I say more...other than, "read this book!'

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of one of the  The Cryptographer's Dilemma, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday November 5 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

The Dreaming Beauty

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WALKER, ANNEKA R.

THE DREAMING BEAUTY

Once upon a dream, two cursed people fell in love...

Tansy White doesn't want to end up alone like her three aunts who raised her, but when she is betrayed by her would-be betrothed, she fears she might never change her fate. At her aunts' suggestion, she seizes the chance to visit Rose Cottage, the country home of her late mother. Fr years, dreams of the cottage have haunted Tansy, and she is convinced it holds the answer to her hidden past. But after getting caught in a terrible storm, she meets a man who is just as determined as she is to learn all her secrets.

Marcus Taylor, brother to the Duke of Westmorland, is also troubled by vivid dreams. On a sleepless night, as a tempest rages outside his brother's estate, he makes a discovery far more mysterious than any dream: a young woman, cold as ice, lies unconscious in the library, and he is sure she is the key to solving his problems. When she wakes, what begins as a shared quest for information turns into an unexpected friendship. As they piece together the fragments of their past, they discover a tangled web of lies, and their feelings for each other become just as entwined. But is their love as strong as their dreams...or their fate?

My Review:

Fantastical Romantical!!!! I'm not sure if I'm sufficiently resuscitated from my swooning frenzy to be articulate enough in order to write a review, so bear with me here.

The best Sleeping Beauty retelling I've read -- and I've read a ton over the years. Why you ask? Because...

- The way the author weaves the legend into her story 

- The familiar details transformed into something splendiferously unique and exciting 

- The myriad of twists and turns in the plot

- The romance so sweetly tender but fraught with impossibilities

- The layers of mystery!

- The Regency setting

- Tansy's aunts!!!!!!!!!

- 'The Masked Baron' cameos (book one in the 'Enchanted Regency Romance' series) This can totally be read as a standalone though.

- And I listened to the audible edition narrated by Noah Wall which made it all the more thrilling. 

If you enjoy clever (brilliant even) fairytale retellings, 'The Dreaming Beauty' should definitely find it's way onto your TBR pile. ASAP

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for an ebook copy.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of one of the The Dreaming Beauty, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday October 29 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

 

Veil of Winter

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DICKERSON, MELANIE

VEIL OF WINTER

She's hounded from every side by treacherous elements and foes, but her greatest enemy lies within.

In the mountains near France, the medieval Princess Elyce is being forced to marry, thus forming an alliance that will enrich her father but enslave her kingdom. Instead, she chooses to feign her death and flee to Prague to beg King Wenceslaus to help save her people.

In England, the young knight Sir Gerard has a vision from God instructing him to help Elyce on her quest. When he arrives to find she has been near death for days, he manages to revive her. However, thinking the stranger was trying to kiss her, the princess immediately distrusts him. But her desperate situation forces her to accept his aid.

Pursued by her enemy's guards over mountainous terrain, they must also battle the deadly winter elements. Her greatest challenge may be to overcome the voices of disapproval and accusation from her childhood. Will her emotions lead her into her true identity, or will they undermine her ability to work with Gerard and to save her people, who desperately need her help?

In this dazzling and romantic story, New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson takes the classic Sleeping Beauty fairy tale to satisfying new heights.

My Review:

A fun fairy tale retelling where the villains are the vilest and the hero the noblest and the heroine? Well, she's driven by demons from her past but led by a pure heart and the desire to provide the best for her people. It all makes for an enchanting mix of action, adventure, danger and intrigue. And romance, of course, because every good fairy tale needs a happily ever after ending.

Enjoyed Dickerson's take on the Sleeping Beauty angle, and how that becomes the pivotal springboard for the rest of the tale. That 'almost kiss' happens very early on in the story and provides a rocky start to Gerard and Elyce's relationship. A nice upside down twist to the classic tale. 

I enjoyed listening to Julie Mason's audio book narration courtesy of my library's Libby collection. She amplified my enjoyment of this read by bringing these characters and their story to life.

Goal Update: #7 Start new-to-me-series, #9 Read outside my comfort zone (YA)

 GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a print or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  Veil of Winter leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday October 22 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

The Mobster's Daughter

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RANDOM RETRO READ

MCDANIEL, RACHEL SCOTT

THE MOBSTER'S DAUGHTER

The one man who could help her, must never know her name.

If Kate Chamberlin can't reveal her true identity to the world, she must settle for sharing only her talent. Hired as a musician for KDKA radio, Kate plays everything from sponsor's jingles to complex sonatas. As long as the whispers around the broadcasting room refer to her as 'Killjoy Kate' and not 'Catarina the crime boss's daughter,' then her life is safe from danger.

Or so she thinks.

When anonymous, violent threats surface, Kate's wary of accepting protection from the handsome private investigator, Detective Jennings. His save-the-world attitude is as charming as his manners, but no one, especially him, can know the gruesome realities of her birth.

The 1924 Pittsburgh underworld is as complicated as it is elusive, and though the dealings of the Salvastanos have dwindled, Rhett Jennings is certain the man responsible for his father's death is still at large. But his personal hunt for justice must be set aside when his day job requires him to investigate threats directed at a young radio broadcaster with enamouring brown eyes and secretive behaviour.

When danger surrounds them, will the truth of Kate's past become the key to their survival?

My Review:

published in 2021

Whooooaaaaa...I was not expecting, well, any of this. Call me gobsmacked yet again over the cunning imagination and silver pen (keyboard?) of another author. This story blew me away! And I actually think it was enhanced all the more by the stunning narration of Erica Sullivan. (Yes, this was another winning audible listen for me.)

Gripping right from the start with Catarina, fresh off the boat from Italy, catapulted into a complicated web of secrets and intrigue as she tries to find the father she hasn't seen in over a decade. But what she uncovers is so unexpected it sends her into hiding, compelling her to change her identity. Singing sensation 'Kate Chamberlain' is born and then the fun really begins. :-)

Love the 1920s setting and the author has captured so many different aspects of the climate and culture beautifully. Her author's note at the end of the book is worth reading as well. And it provides the perfect backdrop for the suspense which is....gah, there is so much I want to say, but can't. Sigh. But when we got close to the end I was, "Whaaaaaaatttttt???????" I think I have a bruise on my chin from when it hit the floor. Did not see that coming. Or that. Or, well, even that.

The chemistry between Kate and Rhett has put permanent cramps in my toes from the curling workout they got during this read. And the gigantic issue that is a ginormous stumbling block between them -- oy, my heart still feels bruised. But the way the author sees them through to a hard won happily ever after is so inspiring. Sniffle. 

A gobsmacking stunner of a read.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for paperback or ebook copy -- Winner's choice..

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  The Mobster's Daughter, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday October 15 2022 . Offer open to 

O little Town

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WEN, AMANDA

JANYRE TROMP

RANEY DEBORAH

O LITTLE TOWN : A ROMANCE CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

Stores of small-town Christmas and the enduring love of God from three critically acclaimed authors. In the sleepy small town of Mapleview, Michigan, Christmas is always something special. In this charming collection of romance novellas, join three generations of Mapleview residents longing for love -- and finding it -- on the most wonderful night of the year.

Hopes and Fears by Amanda Wen

Emma Trowbridge is determined to give her students the Christmas pageant of a lifetime. The last person she expected, or wanted, to encounter in her two-room schoolhouse is her childhood rival, Frederick Oberstein. He would rather be far away himself. He wants no part of cheer, Christmas or otherwise. Can they learn to see each other in a new light -- embrace a new season of hope and faith tougher?

While Mortals Sleep by Janyre Tromp

While World War II rages overseas, news reporter Eleanor Sweers returns home to Mapleview to face the repercussions of the death of her sister and her nightmare of Christmases past. But the Homefront isn't as far from the war as she thought: a bomb has landed in the middle of the U.S. Now Eleanor and family friend Gideon Braum may have to choose between the scoop of a lifetime and the love of a lifetime.

The Wondrous Gift by Deborah Raney

High school football coach Caleb Janssen and music teacher Rachel Hamblin bond when they both lose their jobs at a Christian school. But when they discover their plans for the future are mutually exclusive, the fallout threatens to tear them apart.

My Review:

A stunning collection of Christmas stories that I will cherish every year. These authors deliver the very essence of the season in classic tales of loss and hope and the wonder of new beginnings during the most magical time of the year.

I felt all kinds of 'Anne and Gilbert' vibes from Amanda Wen's 'Hopes and Fears'.  As students, Emma and Fredrick shared a long standing school rivalry, but they are adults now, teachers in the same two room school house where that rivalry has the chance to spark into something so much more...if only past sorrows and mistakes can be faced and forgiven. Brilliantly paced and beautifully told, the author has managed to capture the heart of Christmas and its everlasting promise of hope. 

Janrye Tromp's Christmas offering includes a compelling World War II mystery which was a fun surprise. She has packed all the depth and substance you'd find in a full length novel into 'While Mortals Sleep' -- from characterization to plot and beautiful descriptive writing. Unputdownable!

Deb Raney's 'Wonderous Gift' was the least Christmas-y of this trio. It starts a week before Christmas (present day) and ends on Christmas the following year. So seasonal bookends to a fun and flirty contemporary romance with just the right touch of angst. And there's a very sweet 'coming full circle' vibe between the first story in this collection and this one. Uplifting and inspiring.

I enjoyed listening to the audible edition of 'O Little Town'. Excellent narrators in Leah Horowitz and Matt Godfrey (though only Janyre Tromp's novella included both a male and female narrator.)

Goal Update: #4 Read more new-to-me authors

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice..

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  O Little Town , leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday October 15 2022 . Offer open to 

The Heart of the Mountains

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BASHAM, PEPPER

THE HEART OF THE MOUNTAINS

To escape a forced marriage, Cora Taylor travels from England to the Blue Ridge Mountains in search of her brother, who is working as a teacher in a mission school. She hopes to find a place where her nursing skills and independent ideas will be accepted and appreciated, but nothing prepares her for the wild mixture of isolation, community, brokenness, and hope within these mountains...or in the person of Jeb McAdams.

Returning from the devastation of World War I emotionally damaged, Jeb McAdams struggles against the rampant mountain alcoholism to soothe his nightmares. It's easy to hide within the mountains, or it was, before Cora Taylor arrives. Now, she seems to show up at every turn, bringing her ideas, curiosity, and beautiful eyes with her. Their mutual understanding of the costs of war leads to an unspoken bond that develops into a hesitant friendship.

As Cora turns her nursing experience and determination on establishing hygiene and education for women in the Appalachian community while also attempting to rescue Jeb from his own ghosts, Cora and Jeb's partnership turns into a project of celebrating the gifts within Appalachia.

But when the past sweeps back into their lives and an outbreak of scarlet fever threatens the future, will Cora and Jeb find a way to work together -- even if it means unplanned matrimony -- or will their different lives and brokenness tear them apart?

My Review:

(Oops...Post Reader's Choice Week Addled Brain Syndrome...forgot to schedule this review to go up at midnight. Ah well, better late than never, right?!)

An enthralling sequel to 'Laurel's Dream'. And, really, that about sums it up. lol Because I always find myself grappling for words when it comes to reviewing Pepper Basham's books. This one is all layers with sharp edges smoothed over by grace. Stunning. Moving. Goosebumping. Laugh-out-louding. Swooning. (Be. Still. My. Heart. Jeb!!!!) Have I said captivating yet? 'Cause 'The Heart of the Mountains' is all that and then some.

Basham has captured the complexities of rural Appalachian relationships with such poignant accuracy (at least it seems accurate to this city-fied Canadian) and she's drawn from some of her family history for inspiration! I listened to the audible edition narrated by Kate Forbes and I wanted to hit pause so many times to write down treasured snippets of mountain folk wisdom but if I did do that it would have taken me a month to finish! I definitely need a print copy too, so I can underline and annotate to my heart's content. 

An incredible, heartwarming story that seamlessly weaves faith and romance and heart-stopping action into a moving read that inspires change...not just for the characters, but for readers too.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  The Heart of the Mountains , leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday October 8 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

The Orchard

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LEWIS, BEVERLY

THE ORCHARD

"She realized there was peace right here in the midst of this heavenly sort of place, despite the unpredictable storm churning around her family."

For generations, Ellie Hostetler's family has tended their orchard, a tradition her twin brother, Evan, will someday continue. But when Evan is drafted for the Vietnam War, the family is shocked to learn he has not sought conscientious objector status, despite their Old Order Amish belief in non-resistance. The faraway war that has caused so much turmoil and grief among their English neighbours threatens too close to home. 

As Evan departs for boot camp, Ellie confides her disappointment to Sol Bontrager, the brother of her best friend and cousin to her new beau, Menno. In contrast to Evan, Sol is a conscientious objector. Despite Ellie's attraction to Men, she finds herself drawn to Sol's steady presence as they work together in the orchard. Suddenly, if feels as if everything in Ellie's world is shifting, and the plans she held so dear seem increasingly uncertain. Cans she and her family find the courage to face a future unlike the any they could have imagined?

My Review:

There's just something about the way Beverly Lewis tells a story. Unhurried. Gentle. Quiet. Filled with charm and infused with faith. 'The Orchard' isn't a nail-biting pager turner and yet it was compelling all the same. 

Set mainly at the Hostetler family orchard, we follow Ellie through the seasons -- the story spans more than a year. She is happily isolated from the political turmoil of the time (Vietnam War)...but that doesn't last for very long. Not when her twin brother has been drafted and there is a spree of attacks on Amish men with conscientious objector status in the community. 

The historical details were interesting as I didn't know much about this time in American history (I'm Canadian.) A draft lottery? And the juxtaposition between the civil protests over the war (meaning the majority of citizens wanted peace) pitted agains the vicious beatings of pacifists. 

We see it all through Ellie's eyes as she grows into her faith and struggles to come to terms with her wayward brother. Lots of lovely family scenes -- her grandfather is a riot! And wonderful faith discussions full of simple truths. And what would a Beverly Lewis book be without a sweet romance?!

A captivating tale told in traditional storytelling style.

Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.

 

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a  paperback copy.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  The Orchard , leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday September 24 2022 . Offer open to 

The Bachelor and the Bride

GIVEAWAY

EDEN SARAH M.

THE BACHELOR AND THE BRIDE

London, 1886

Dr. Barnabus Millian has always felt called to help people, whether that means setting a broken bone or rescuing the impoverished women of London from their desperate lives on the streets as part of his work with the Dread Penny Society.

Three years ago, he helped rescue Gemma Kincaid by secretly marrying her to protect her from her family of notorious grave robbers.

But six months after Gemma and Barnabus exchanged vows, she realized her love of her new husband was unrequited. To protect her hearts, she left, telling Barnabus to contact her if his feelings for her ever grew beyond a sense of duty.

When Barnabus sends a letter to Gemma inviting her to return home, she hopes to find a true connection between them. But unfortunately, he only wants her help to foil the Kincaids, who have been terrorizing the boroughs of London, eager to gain both money and power.

Heartbroken, Gemma agrees to help, but she warns Barnabus that she will not stay for long and once she goes, he'll never see her again.

Yet as the couple follows the clues that seem to connect the Kincaids to the Mastiff, the lead of London's criminal network, Gemma and Baranbus realize they might make a better match than either of them suspected. Perhaps the marriage that hand once saved Gemma's life might now save Barnabus -- and his lonely heart.

But before the once-confirmed bachelor can properly court his secret bride, they'll need to evade the dangerous forces that are drawing ver closer to the hopeful lovers and the entire Dread Penny Society itself.

My Review:

Da Da Da Da Dummmmmm. Cue the tension-building background music, put your phone on mute, lock yourself in a room where no one can reach you (filled with the necessary reading supplies, of course...chocolate, tissues, chocolate, defibrillator, more chocolate, etc.) and be prepared to be swept away by this mesmerizing fourth instalment to the Dread Penny Society series.

I tried to make the journey last but I woke up at 5:30 a.m. on release day and started listening to my newly downloaded audible edition and then I was pretty much useless until I reached the end.

GASP!!!! THAT ENDING!!!! (THUD)

So, I went into this read thinking it was the last book in the series and I was pretty gloomy about that. Still, I tried to savour every second but my anxiety ramped up as the story progressed and then I was in a frenzy close to the end because how on earth was the author possibly going to wrap things up?! 

So -- the GOOD NEWS -- is that 'The Bachelor and the Bride' is actually not the last book in the series. (Everyone join me in a frantic bibliophile happy dance!) But -- the BAD NEWS -- is that 'The Bachelor and the Bride' ends abruptly after some rapid-fire shocking revelations AND a dastardly cliffhanger! (hence the need for the defibrillator.)

Sob! I have no idea when the next book will come out or even what it's called but I'm guessing we'll have to wait an entire year. Heaving sob!

Other random bits I should include in this review:

* Definitely don't read this book as your introduction to the Dread Penny Society series. If at all possible, read the books in order, or at least read the first book. That will give you a greater understanding of the Society and how it works as well as an introduction to key characters. Plus, there's a continuous part of the suspense plot that builds with each book...and then explodes in an unsuspecting reader's face in this one! (Still in shock!)

* I love the marriage of convenience trope!!!! And it's written to perfection here. With Gemma wearing her heart on her sleeve and Barbnabus too much of a dunderhead to realize he even has a heart! Such lovely emotional tension and I love how Eden took it in an unpredictable way. Just when I thought I figured out how the romance arc was going to play out, she surprised me. So much fun!

* As with all the other Dread Penny books, we get two actual Penny Dreadfuls interspersed into the story. One is so reminiscent of the darker fairy tales I grew up with (Irish) and I loved it. Not fiercely eerie, but definitely not Disney-fied. And the other Penny Dreadful is also suitably somber in the form of an ominous cautionary tale. The tone of both suited the dire straits of the 'real life' suspense plot Gemma and Barnabus are living.

* Though there's danger afoot, and an odious villain...well a multitude of them...to thwart...our Dread Penny heroes and heroines still have time to banter and josh and the author gives us some enticing glimpses into the lives of characters who starred in previous books. 

All in all a wonderfully satisfying continuation to the series, if rather hair-raising, jaw-dropping towards the end. Now, can somebody please tell me when the fifth book comes out...and please tell me it's Stone's story!

Goal Update: #5 Diversify my reading, #6 Stay current with a series.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy. Winner's choice. Or, if you haven't started the series and would prefer a copy of the first book, The Lady and the Highwayman, you could choose that book instead.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Bachelor and the Bride, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday September 17 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

A Mosaic of Wings

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ

DUFFY, KIMBERLY

A MOSAIC OF WINGS

Nora Shipley has one goal -- to carry on the legacy of her late father by taking over the scientific journal he started. To that end, she's fought to be taken seriously among her male classmates and graduate as valedictorian of Cornell's  entomology program. When pressures to settle down rise to a fever pitch, she impulsively joins a research expedition in Kodaikanal, India, to prove herself in the field and win a scholarship.

But India holds several surprises -- she is impressed not only by the beauty of its natural wonders, but also by the gentle nature she discovers in the rival classmate who accompanied her, Owen Epps. Instead of exploring, however, she is forced by the expedition leader to stay at camp and illustrate exotic butterflies the men of the team find without her. During the many quiet days, Nora befriends Sita, a young Indian girl who has been dedicated to the goddess against her will.

In this spellbinding new land, Nora is soon faced with impossible choices -- between saving Sita and saving her career, and between what she's always thought she wanted and the man she's come to love.

My Review:

Published in 2020

I discovered a second copy during my major shelf re-shuffle, so here she is, ready to go adventuring in the great wide world. Good luck!

---

Laura Frantz-esque in a different time period with a wider world view.

What a stunning debut novel! Duffy's rich, decadent prose creates such a thrilling ambiance. Seriously, she nearly had me swooning over bugs! I did not think I could connect with an etymologist heroine but I was wrong. Nora is a fascinating woman of her time. She's passionate about her future involving more than a suitable husband and nursery full of babies. She's brilliant and competitive and prone to rash actions, thinking things through only once she's in the middle of the aftermath which makes things interesting -- and frustrating -- for all involved, including the reader!

At the beginning of the novel we meet an opinionated, strong-willed Nora. Sometimes, she gives the impression of being stuck-up and aloof in her drive to pursue her education in a male dominated environment. While I found some of that off-putting, I could see where the attitude was coming from. Duffy shows the sharp contrasts in the expectations (or lack of) in 19th century women compared to their male counterparts.

And then there's Owen (did my heart just skip a beat?) Stalwart hero material. So patient and protective and encouraging. Content to embrace the multi-faceted Nora, prickles and all. A couple of reviewers mentioned an Anne and Gilbert vibe to their romance (Anne of Green Gables) which I found funny because that's exactly what came to my mind too. Great minds think a like and all that.

A Mosaic of Wings is a coming of age story that spans continents.It's a journey of self-discovery, shifting thought processes and the hope of new love. Nora's transformation is both exhilarating and terrifying. And she doesn't always get it right but, like us all, she's a work in progress.

"There is a peace here I have never felt before. It feels like a sanctuary hidden deep in the country of a thousand idols. A place where God's fingerprints point to His plan." (p 121)

A breath-taking, complex read.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback copy.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  A Mosaic of Wings, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 27 2022 . Offer open to