“The Nature of the Lady” by Roseanna M White ~Review

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“The Nature of A Lady” by Roseanna M White

Book One in the Secrets of the Isles Series

Review copy from the publishers

My rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

1906
Lady Elizabeth “Libby” Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn’t favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles into the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage’s former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.

Oliver Tremayne–gentleman and clergyman–is determined to discover what happened to his sister, and he’s happy to accept the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth’s summer cottage . . . especially when he realizes it’s the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can’t quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.

As Libby and Oliver work together, they find ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.

My Thoughts:

A new series by Roseanna M White always has the words “Yes please!” on my lips. “The Nature of the Lady” is a wonderful story that begins The Secrets of the Isles series fantastically. The setting was different from what I had come to know from the author but it was exquisite, and the characters were just as loveable as always!

It was fun having a bit of Pirate-lore mixed into the plot; I am always intrigued by any mention of pirates, what can I say. XD And as the reader, I felt like I really got to unravel the mystery alongside the main characters, and I waited with baited breath till the very last page.But as always, what made the novel a hit for me was the characters. They were lovely, and so relatable. Lady Elizabeth was so unique and I loved her genuine fascination with nature. Oliver Tremayne was a perfect hero, gentle and kind while still strong and caring. And really the whole cast of characters were varied and unique and you couldn’t help but bond with them. Especially Mam-wynn! She was a doll.

I nearly felt like I was there on the Scillies with them, solving a curious mystery and getting to know new friends. The faith message was gentle and sweet, and Elizabeth’s journey to truly finding God was peaceful and fulfilling. It was a quieter message, but still sweet. Can’t wait for more of this series!

*I recevied a copy of the book from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review.

About the Author:

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.

“Dusk’s Darkest Shores” by Carolyn Miller ~ Book Review and Giveaway

“Dusk’s Darkest Shores” by Carolyn Miller

Book One in the Regency Wallflowers Series

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

About the series:
 
While most stories set in Regency England focus on the rich, the young, and the beautiful, award-winning author Carolyn Miller decided she wanted to give readers something different for a change. Her new Regency Wallflowers series follows the commoners, away from the hustle and bustle of 1810s London, out in the Lake District of England. She tells the stories of women who are slightly older and have few prospects for marriage, women who might be considered “wallflowers.”
 
About the book:
 
How can a meek wallflower help a returning war hero whose dreams are plunged into darkness?
 
Mary Bloomfield has no illusions. Her chances for matrimony have long since passed her by. Still, her circumstances are pleasant enough, especially now that she has found purpose in assisting her father with his medical practice in England’s beautiful Lake District. Even without love, it’s a peaceful life.
 
That is until Adam Edgerton returns to the sleepy district. This decorated war hero did not arrive home to acclaim and rest, but to a new battle against the repercussions of an insidious disease. Mary’s caring nature cannot stand to see someone suffer–but how can she help this man see any brightness in his future when he’s plunged into melancholic darkness, his dreams laid waste by his condition?
 
Adam wants no charity, but he’s also no coward. If this gentle woman can work hard, how can he do less? Together they struggle to find a way forward for him. Frustration and antipathy slowly develop into friendship and esteem. Then a summer storm atop a mountain peak leads to scandal–and both Mary and Adam must search the depths of their closed hearts for answers if they hope to find any future path with happiness at its end.
 
Best-selling author Carolyn Miller is back with a fresh series that will not only thrill readers eager for more of her work, but bring in new fans looking for beautiful writing, fascinating research, deftly woven love stories, and real faith lived out in the Regency period.
 
Click here to read an excerpt.

My Thoughts:

This was such a lovely story! The characters were definitely my favorite part of the story, as they came so alive, and were so realistic. The plot was captivating too, and the setting beautiful.

I loved Mary and Adam – they didn’t immediately become a pair, but their banter throughout the whole story was so much fun. And I loved how they both slowly realized their fondness for each other. There were some sad moments in this book, and each character went through some growth, which only made the story stronger. But truly, the friendship between Mary and Adam was just the best, and they were very sweet. The ending had me ‘awwing’ out loud. ^.^

I’m excited for this new series, featuring “wallflowers”, for they make some wonderful characters who are perhaps unseen at first.Thoroughly enjoyed it!

https://www.audrajennings.com/2021/05/introducing-carolyn-millers-dusks.html

Enter HERE to win a fun prize pack inspired by the book and its English setting that includes: 

– a copy of Dusk’s Darkest Shores
– a canvas bag to carry your latest reads
– a fun pair of Jane Austen socks
– Novel Teas’ English Breakfast tea
– “Drink tea, read books, and be happy” tea spoon
– “Let your faith be bigger than your fear” mug
– Black currant preserves from England
– Wax Lyrical candle from England

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*I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review.

Hope in the Dark by Hannah Wright ~Spotlight

“Hope in the Dark” by Hannah Wright

Genre: Christian historical fiction

Broken hearts, a town torn apart, and a new job. What could possibly go wrong?

Moving into the great unknown of Featherlight, Idaho, was a huge change for Elizabeth Matthews. But while Asheville, North Carolina was comfortingly familiar, it had left her with a broken heart and a determination to never trust a man again. 

Hard working Samuel Bryson is honor bound to provide for his widowed mother and siblings. Determined to live up to his own expectations of being just like his father, he will let nothing get in his way. And that includes marriage. 

Serene and cozy Featherlight has taken a turn into something much darker. Newly hired school teacher Elizabeth and Samuel find themselves desperately searching for answers to the suspicious criminal activity around them. They find themselves thrown into facing their worst fears… and each other. In the midst of many unknowns, will they find the courage to do what God is calling them to? 

I was planning and hoping on having a review to share alongside this book, but I wasn’t able to read the ecopy at this time due to eye-problems. But it sounds so good and I wish the author the best success!!

Check out her instagram to keep up with her, and find out about the giveaway alongside this tour!

@_hannahsbooknook_ 
https://www.instagram.com/_hannahsbooknook_/ 

“Castle of Refuge”by Melanie Dickerson – Review

“Castle of Refuge” by Melanie Dickerson

Book Two in the Dericott Tales Series

Review copy from the publishers

My rating: 5 of out 5 Stars

About the Book:

Audrey is a viscount’s daughter who has suffered her sister Maris’s cruel, jealous behavior all her life. An act of malice led their father to send Maris to a convent, but Audrey was still left with scars. Three years later, Audrey’s father is determined to marry off his damaged daughter, and Maris is returning. Desperate, Audrey sneaks away.

However, life outside her home is dangerous, and she soon finds herself attacked, injured, and in dire straits. She is taken in at Dericott Castle to be nursed back to health. While there, she decides to keep her identity a secret and work as a servant in the castle. But she doesn’t count on falling in love with the young and handsome Lord Dericott, who lost his arm several months earlier.

Meanwhile, Edwin—Lord Dericott—is curious about the new, well-educated servant’s identity. When the man Audrey’s father wanted her to marry comes looking for her, each must make a life-changing decision about what to believe and whether or not love is truly worth trusting.

In this Ugly Duckling retelling, New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson brilliantly crafts a high-stakes, encouraging tale about the power of love.

My Thoughts:

Second in the Dericott Tales, “Castle of Refuge” features familiar character, Edwin Dericott, and new character, Audrey. I loved this story, it was so delightful and the characters were endearing. Audrey was bubbly, and such a joyful personality despite the difficulties she faced at the hand of her sister.The plot moved along so well, and I was swept into the story immediately.

The faith aspect was well-developed, and the characters really did shine. The romance was so, so sweet too. I loved watching the relationship between Audrey and Edwin, and how tentative they both were. And also how well they worked together in harmony against the struggles they were facing. They both felt like they were too scarred to love, but it was great seeing how they each grew as individuals and as a couple.

An exciting, well-paced book, and I look forward to more of this series!!

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion

“All That Really Matters” by Nicole Deese ~ Book Review

“All That Really Matters” By Nicole Deese

Review copy from the publishers

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

Molly McKenzie’s bright personality and on-trend fashion and beauty advice have earned her an impressive social media following, as well as a big paycheck each month. When her manager-turned-boyfriend says she has an audition to appear as a host on a makeover show that nominates underprivileged youth, her dream of further fame seems to be coming true. There’s just one catch: she has little experience interacting with people in need.

When her manager-boyfriend convinces her to partner with a local organization, she begins volunteering with a summer youth program. The program’s director, Silas Whittaker, challenges her at every turn, but she swiftly grows more attached to the kids–and him–every day.

As Molly experiences an acceptance unlike anything she’s known, she wrestles with the lies she’s been believing about herself for years. She thought she knew what mattered most in life, but maybe she’s had it wrong this whole time, and there’s more to being truly seen than what she’s built her entire life on.

My Thoughts:

This book! Okay, so not only is the cover absolutely stunning, the inside story was just as captivating and beautiful – in every aspect. When I began the book, I was curious to see what we’d learn about main character, Molly, because she first came off as shallow and all about her social media influence – but I knew there was more going on, and oh boy was there. Molly was such an exceptional character, and how she grew throughout this novel, while still finding who she truly was, came across so well and was so lovely. I loved her so much, and Silas was a fantastic hero too. I loved his heart for the teens aging out of the foster system. This book really is packed with so much *heart*. I cried a couple times towards the end…it was that good.And then to read the note at the end that there will be a book about Val…!!!! I am so excited! Val was such an awesome friend to Molly, even through the struggles they endured. I can’t wait to read more of her story <3
But anyway, back to this book which was utterly fantastic in its own right. I am not a makeup/beauty/fashion person…but I loved how unique Molly was in her element, and I thought it was really neat to read about a character whose job was an influencer. And the depths she had were touching. There were several story threads of redemption in All That Really Matters, and it was truly beautiful to read. Every moment was heart-touching, and I enjoyed every minute. <3

*I received a copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. 

“Flying Into Love” by Kathleen Rouser ~ Book Review

“Flying Into Love” by Kathleen Rouser

Review copy from author

My rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

Her great-grandmother’s journal holds the key to the past–and maybe her future.

Unable to say no when others need her, Talia Sampson took on her deceased aunt’s advice column and the care of her special needs niece. Then new veteran, Ben Tanner, shows up unexpected on her doorstep. Hurt many times, he wonders where home is. Talia isn’t happy finding a hot-air balloon with him, but she treasures the old journal with it. Ben hopes restoring her family’s antique will please her, until he discovers a secret that shatters his trust. And Talia hates flying. 
Will she trust God—and Ben—enough to go airborne? 

My Thoughts:

This was a charming little story! It isn’t very long, but it makes for an excellent light-hearted read, and the length felt just right. I haven’t read anything from this author before, but I was very impressed with the writing style that immediately drew me in and flowed so smoothly throughout the entire story.The characters were both realistic and likeable, and I enjoyed seeing the plot unfold.  Talia and Ben both had backstories that played into who they were, and it all came together really nicely.I appreciated how both characters were Christians, and how that affected their lives and actions. All in all a very sweet read, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to read it!

This book was provided courtesy of the author, through Interviews & Reviews.

“Painted Vessels” by Gina Renee Freitag ~ Book Review

Painted Vessels by Gina Renee Freitag

Vessels Series #1

Review copy from the author

My rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

My Thoughts:

Painted Vessels is a sweeping saga encompassing the life journey of Eli and Ada. The writing is very narrative, and I liked how we were told the story from so many view points. There were many characters, and some I lost track of, but it was interesting to get to see a scene from the various perspectives. I think it would have been helpful to have had something like a character index so the reader could reference that with so many character-pov-switches but even without that, I was able to figure out who was who. It was easy to feel for, and connect to the two central characters, Eli and Ada. And so encouraging to see how they changed and grew as their story continued on. The Caravan members were so wonderful as well. I loved how integral they were to Eli and Ada’s life journey. They were all so caring, thoughtful, and a godly example.One thing that confused me a little was the frequent jumping of time spans – it was basically a split-time-line novel, but the different times weren’t differentiated/specified at the beginning of each chapter so I was sometimes a little confused at first but eventually would figure out what time the story was talking about.I think what I loved best about this book is how clearly the author’s heart was poured out into the pages. It feels like a true honor to read a book when that happens – like you’re holding something very precious to the author. I don’t take that for granted <3 There were many truths woven into Painted Vessels, and the ending was so beautiful. I am excited to start the next book, Fractured Vessels!

*I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review.

“The Indebted Earl” by Erica Vetsch ~ Book Review

“The Indebted Earl” but Erica Vetsch

Book Three in the Serendipity and Secrets Series

My rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

Can Captain Wyvern keep his new marriage of convenience all business–or will it turn into something more?

Captain Charles Wyvern owes a great debt to the man who saved his life–especially since Major Richardson lost his own life in the process. The best way to honor that hero’s dying wish is for Wyvern to escort the man’s grieving fiance and mother safely to a new cottage home by the sea. But along the way, he learns of another obligation that has fallen on his shoulders: his uncle has died and the captain is now the Earl of Rothwell.

When he and the ladies arrive at his new manor house in Devon, they discover an estate in need of a leader and a gaggle of girls, all wards of the former earl. War the new earl knows; young ladies and properties he does not. Still wishing to provide for the bereaved Lady Sophia Haverly, Charles proposes a marriage of convenience.

Sophie is surprised to find she isn’t opposed to the idea. It will help her care for her betrothed’s elderly mother, and she’s already fallen in love with the wayward girls on the Rothwell estate. This alliance is a chance to repay the captain who has done so much for her care, as well as divert her attention from her grief. When Wyvern returns to his sea commission, she’ll stay behind to oversee his property and wards.

It sounds so simple. Until the stalwart captain is arrested on suspicion of smuggling, and Sophie realizes how much he’s come to mean to her. Now she’ll have to learn to fight, not only for his freedom but also for his love.

Click here to read an excerpt.

My Thoughts:

Erica Vetsch has quickly become one of the authors that I want to keep at the top of my list!

This series has been utterly marvelous, and I loved having the chance to read this third book. It didn’t disappoint in the least <3 The characters were lovely, and I easily became attached to them. Yes, the beginning was a bit sad because Sophie’s fiance’ dies (not a spoiler XD), but how the whole novel progressed was beautifully done. 

The Captain was great. I definitely loved him, and Sophie was fantastic, and the three little girls who became the Captain’s wards were darling!! I especially loved Thea; she was hysterical and so full of character.The plot was engaging as well; I’m always in for a marriage of convenience story, seriously. This series has been wonderful for that aspect. Each story has been unique and exceptional.

And in “The Indebted Earl” we got to see Marcus from “The Gentleman Spy” a few times, which I looooved. Marcus was a favorite hero of mine so I wasn’t complaining to have him back. ;)If you like Regency Romance, don’t miss the Serendipity and Secrets series!

About the Author:

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling and ACFW Carol Award–winning author. She is a transplanted Kansan now living in Minnesota with her husband, who she claims is both her total opposite and soul mate. 
 
Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum and cheering on her Kansas Jayhawks and New Zealand All Blacks.
 
A self-described history geek, she has been planning her first research trip to England.
 
Learn more about Erica Vetsch and her books at www.ericavetsch.com. She can also be found on Facebook (@EricaVetschAuthor), Instagram (@EricaVetsch) and Pinterest (Erica Vetsch).

Giveaway

https://promosimple.com/ps/10ba3/the-indebted-earl

There’s a fun giveaway apart of this tour, so make sure to visit this LINK to enter!!

Review copy from the publishers as apart of I Read With Audra Tours. I was not required to write a positive review.

“Present Danger” by Elizabeth Goddard ~ Book Review

“Present Danger” by Elizabeth Goddard

Romantic Suspense

My rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

Former FBI Special Agent Jack Tanner is working as a detective in Montana when he comes across a body in the national forest during a search and rescue mission. He’s committed to finding the killer, even if it means working alongside his old flame, US Forest Service Special Agent Terra Connors.

When Terra discovers that the murder victim had ties to a powerful and dangerous trafficker of archaeological artifacts, the investigation takes a deadly turn–one that hits too close to home. As Terra fears she lacks the courage to face what comes next, Jack is more determined than ever to protect her. But he’s failed her before. And if he fails this time, it will cost them far more than just their hearts.

Join bestselling and award-winning author Elizabeth Goddard as she plunges you into a web of deceit made of hidden crimes, open threats, and long-buried family secrets in this gripping first book of an explosive new series. 

My Thoughts:

Every so often, I get a craving for a good suspense fiction title and this one certainly fit that bill! Present Danger was extremely well written, with lots of turns and twists you don’t see coming – especially at the end! I loved seeing how everything connected, and worked together. I hadn’t read any books by this author previously, but I am most excited to continue now.

The plot was superb, and the characters were really well constructed, and I enjoyed seeing how they progressed and grew throughout the novel.The pace of the novel was great, and every page left you ready to flip to the next without delay. It was exciting, dangerous, and compelling, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series!

The only thing that I would’ve liked to see more was the faith content – it was pretty weakly interspersed, not a major theme. The characters were shown crying out to God in prayer a couple times, but it wasn’t so much of an integral part of the story. Otherwise, as I said, this was an excellently written novel, and I recommend for fans of clean suspense! 

*I received a copy of the book from the publishers as apart of the launch team. I was not required to write a positive review.

“Facing the Dawn” by Cynthia Ruchti ~ Book Review

“Facing the Dawn” by Cynthia Ruchti

Women’s Fiction

My rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

About the Book:

Mara Jacobs does her best to hold everything together, despite three detention-prone kids, an unrewarding job, never-ending chores, and a husband thousands of miles away. After a shocking loss, she must lean on those around her to find her way to healing and renewed faith.

My Thoughts:

This was definitely one of those books you experience, rather than so much as read. It’s hard to explain, and I’m not really certain how to write a review that could do the book justice. For the majority of the book, I would sum it up as being ‘sad’. And it is. But there is also light carefully woven into the threads of the novel, threads that grow stronger towards the end. Oh and the ending was utterly beautiful. That, I think, may have been my favorite part – those last two chapters.

Facing the Dawn is a very real, raw story. The grief experienced by Mara, and the other characters as well, was down right palpable. At times it was heavy, and you could absolutely feel the exhaustion it caused the characters.I wouldn’t have a hard time believing if each one of these characters were real people, the novel came across that realistic.

I loved Mara’s friends, Ashlee and Sol. They were amazing support for the entire Jacobs’ family. And I love how Ashlee constantly encouraged Mara to seek after God, even when it was hard.

I would give a “trigger warning” to those who need it that this book deals heavily with grief, suicide, miscarriage, and depression. It is handled well, but nonetheless, very real.I am impressed with how the book was written to be something you experience alongside the characters instead of just read about. It won’t be a book you quickly forget.There were a couple things that were either abrupt, or not addressed, but life throws those things at us frequently, so it didn’t feel too terribly out of line. I just would’ve liked to have seen a couple more things either talked out or resolved. 

This book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group (Revell), through Interviews & Reviews.