All That Really Matters by Nicole Deese {Review}

All That Really Matters by Nicole Deese

Paperback, 416 pages

Publication: April 6th 2021 by Bethany House Publishers 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given. 

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 Review: 5 Stars

 

What really matters in life? Sometimes it's hard to recognize. Although I have no desire to become one, social media influencers are very intriguing to me. Nicole Deese delivers an amazingly heartfelt and authentic story, and it caught me off guard. I was expecting superficial, and maybe that's how Molly's service journey started, but her genuine and vivid persona, grit, and perfected online presence was a magnet for everyone who came in contact with her and absolutely perfect for this book.

 

Molly is the type of character that you can't help but adore and idolize and want to be like. Although she appears to be very successful, I love that there's room for her to grow and learn more about herself. I love how she engages with the youth program and discovers it's more than a stepping stone for her next career move. And can we talk about Silas? What a perfect contrast! That stoic man is compassionate, dukely, and charismatic.

 

I just loved everything about this book. The whole cast of characters felt alive and multi-dimensional. They were real and flawed, yet extremely likable and I couldn't get enough. I loved the Pacific Northwest setting, which lent an interesting vibe that set my heart ablaze once a romance sparked. 

 

Deese does a phenomenal job of bringing the reader into the story. The strings of hope, forgiveness, and love were written amazingly well, creating a beautiful tapestry that I just wanted to frame and keep in my forever.  

Content: mild romance (kissing, vague mention of intimacy); mild+ religion; mild+ talk of past situations (drugs, death, attacks, etc)

Of Sword and Shadow by A.L. Sowards {Review}

Of Sword and Shadow by A.L. Sowards

Kindle Edition, 251 pages

Expected publication: February 8th 2021 by Covenant Communications 

Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All opinions are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

 

Greece, 1379

She is known by many names, none of them her own. In truth, she is an unnamed slave, nothing more than a weapon in the hands of her owner in his attempts to provoke political mayhem. When she encounters a handsome young man while on an assignment, she thinks little of him—until he attempts to take what she has stolen. But in her line of work, failure is not an option.

Gillen is intrigued by the mysterious woman who thwarts his mission. But when his path crosses hers again, his intrigue turns to gratitude as the thief he comes to call Eudocia saves his life. The two form a bond of friendship and join forces to wrest control from a group of ruthless rulers. But as their camaraderie blossoms into something more, Gillen and Eudocia must fight for love even as they wage war for a better future.

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

The Middle Ages are intriguing--knights, fair maidens, royalty. But what I haven't thought a lot about is the slavery situation during these times. Can you imagine remembering nothing before your time as a slave, not even knowing your own name? That's the situation this young girl, who later becomes Eudocia, finds herself in. With no hope of escape, a bond is formed with Gillen, and gradually, ambitions and ideas for a better life start to grow.

 

This whole story is well-written and delivered in a very appealing way. Sowards writes in a way that draws the reader right in to the dangers of the time and brings thoughts and feelings to the surface--things I've never pondered before. There are so many interesting facets to this story and the time period that captivated me--slavery, freedom, loyalties, to name a few--and Eudocia's story was inspiring. Both Gillen and Eudocia are strong, ingenious characters.

 

The slices of intrigue blended with the inklings of hope and glimpses of romance, melded into an adventurous and moving tale that touched me.

Content: PG-13 for mild romance (kissing, with some references to slavery, virginity, groping, seduction); moderate violence (war, torture, abuse) mild+ religion references

**The author has a content warning on her website: https://alsowards.com/books/content/

Uncharted Freedom (Uncharted #9) by Keely Brooke Keith {Review}

Uncharted Freedom (Uncharted #9) by Keely Brooke Keith

ebook, 257 pages

Published November 17th 2020 by Edenbrooke Press
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

Naomi McIntosh is running from her family’s oppressive expectations and the loathsome man her father has demanded she marry. Renaming herself to live incognito, she takes a housekeeping job at the Inn at Falls Creek and promises God this false identity will be her last.

When shepherd James Roberts goes home to the Inn at Falls Creek for his sister’s wedding, he doesn’t expect the woman who once broke his heart to be working there. No matter how much he wants to be with Naomi again, he can’t go along with her charade, especially since he is trying to persuade his father to make him the inn’s heir.

Though Naomi yearns for a future with James, if she confesses her deception to everyone, her estranged fiancé will find her. And the longer James goes without telling his family the truth about Naomi—and their growing relationship—the further he jeopardizes the inheritance. But just when their relationship looks promising, the inn proves to be a poor hiding place from Naomi’s past.

Meanwhile, in Good Springs…
Connor Bradshaw wrestles with the overseers’ decision to preserve the Land’s pacifist ways. His desire to build a defense system for the Land keeps him up at night, secretly scanning for radio transmissions from the warring outside world. His training to be a village overseer will require him to lay down his weapons, but a voice over the radio waves ignites his worst fears.

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

The world that Keith has created is one of the most fascinating ones I've read about. Most of the series takes place in the not-too-distant future, yet the world is completely different and this small land, undetected by most everyone, is intriguing. I love how each book unveils a tiny bit more to the mysteries surrounding it, and delves deeper into the lives of the characters inhabiting it. Sometimes it gets to a point when it's time for a series to come to an end, but I don't feel like this one will ever reach a conclusion.

 

I also love how intertwined the characters lives are and how they intersect at such interesting spots. In this story, Naomi has had enough and is lying her way to a better life, being free of abuse and control. She's spunky and sweet, yet determined to break free and I loved that tenacity. James has a past with Naomi and still loves her. His support is endearing and I loved watching him work to build the life he wants.

 

The mystery seeping in at times was a little eerie and had me on edge, and I can't wait to discover what's next for the land.

 

Content: mild romance; very mild religion

One Kick Wonder (Romeo Family Romance Book 10) by Jennifer Youngblood {Review}

One Kick Wonder (Romeo Family Romance Book 10) by Jennifer Youngblood

Kindle Edition, 180 pages

Published January 20th 2021
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

Dream big. Live large. Love like there’s no tomorrow.

Life rarely goes according to plan. Sometimes the unexpected is even better than we could have ever imagined …

For as long as he can remember, Mason has wanted to pursue his dream of being a musician. He’s been chomping at the bit to jump into the industry for years, but his daddy has been holding him back, claiming that Mason still has some growing up to do. As far as Mason is concerned, he’s plenty grown, and just as talented and driven as his older brother Cash.

Mason knows that he has what it takes to soar. He only needs his shot.

Just when his life takes the turn he always wanted, love and life open up a new path of possibilities that could be even better than he imagined. If only Mason can summon the courage to embrace the unexpected.

 

   

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

The one thing that I love about this series is how the characters are connected through the Romeo family name, yet each story is so unique and different. None of that "same plot, same place, just plug a different name in" to it. And most of this delicious story took place in Hawaii, which was the perfect place to imagine.

Mason is the kicker for a pro football team, but also has a few musical bones in his body, thanks to his family genes. This man goes after what he wants and I loved his tenacity--especially when it came to Selma, but he was a little overbearing at times, putting the pressure on her. As for Selma, her dual personas are charming and hesitant, but very loyal and...trapped. Their instantaneous connection was combustible and doomed, but I adored their time together and the risks they took. I loved exploring Oahu with them and adored her bodyguard, Moose. The movie references and one-liners were a lot of fun too.

True to Youngblood fashion, the story isn't complete without some engaging tension and peril, and it came at the ideal time and in the best way. The pacing and action was believable. Youngblood knows how to deliver a book that encompasses the whole package--romance, action, and swoon.

Content: mild violence; mild romance; mild religion

One Silent Night (Romeo Family Romance Book 9) by Jennifer Youngblood {Review}

One Silent Night (Romeo Family Romance Book 9) by Jennifer Youngblood

Kindle Edition

Published December 9th 2020 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

 

 

A standalone Christmas romance with a whole lot of heart and the perfect dash of suspense!

A woman searching for healing, a man desperate for a second chance, and the web of deceit that could destroy them both.

Recently divorced with a young son, Noelle Staley needs a win in her life. She goes back to her hometown of Franklin, Tennessee to live with her aunt, Birdie Romeo. Starting over isn’t easy. All Noelle wants is a quiet Christmas so she can get her bearings and heal from the trauma of her failed marriage. She has no intention of reconnecting with her first love, Holden Hunt, the celebrated football coach who broke her heart.

Forget that Holden is a walking billboard for masculinity with his incredible muscles, deep dimples, and quicksilver personality. Forget that Noelle’s heart goes into overdrive every time she’s near him. Noelle can’t go back down that path again … no matter how much Holden assures her that he’s changed.

With a series of unexplained fires and nasty rumors about the Romeos, Noelle’s quaint hometown might not be safe haven she thought. Why does Noelle get the feeling that she’s being watched? Are dangers lurking in the shadows, or is her paranoia getting the best of her?

Meanwhile, the entire Romeo family is gathering for their annual celebration at the ranch for what they hope will be their best Christmas yet. However, a series of unexpected events throws the family into a state of turmoil as they battle a danger that could destroy all that they hold dear.

 

   

My Review: 4 Stars

 

The Romeo family is one of my favorites and it was a treat to get the second chance story of Holden and Noelle. While there were undertones of suspense and a definite Christian theme running throughout, it was the threads of romance that held the story together in this sweet holiday romance. 

 

Holden is a changed man but has to prove that to Noelle, while she struggles with trust and getting over the past. They were both likable characters, but there were times when I wanted to hush Noelle, as she would get a little too worked up in front of her son when talking to her terrible ex and his family. I loved the way she and Holden interacted and the way he treated her son.

I adore the loyalty this family shows each other and I love how each member has a unique story to tell.

Content: mild romance; mild suspense; mild+ religious elements

Snowed in at Silver Lake by Stephanie Fowers {Review}

Snowed in at Silver Lake by Stephanie Fowers

Kindle Edition

Published December 7th 2020 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

 

Getting snowed in with a stranger is dangerous—especially for her heart.

Gracie Turner just broke up with her fiancé before Christmas, so after a severe snowstorm causes her car to skid off the road into the deadly waters of Silver Lake, she can’t help falling for her rugged, handsome rescuer. There’s only one problem. He’s a fugitive running from the law.

Barron Hart has a plan to bring his brother’s killers to justice, and it does not involve Gracie. But when the snowy winds batter the backwoods cabin he’s using as his hideout, he has no choice but to wait out the storm with the Sheriff’s daughter. Against her will. Although, if he’s being honest with himself, she’s the one holding his heart captive.

After their first explosive encounter, nothing will warm Gracie up… or stop the sparks flying between them. There are too many secrets keeping them apart. Barron is further dismayed when Gracie uncovers his tragic past. She has the faith to help him heal, but he’s not ready to give up his revenge. Will the mysteries that brought them together, now have the power to tear them apart?

 

   

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I love suspenseful stories, but I don't do well with stress. Having slid off a road before in a snowstorm, my heart was pounding right along with Gracie's, and when you add that to the fact that fugitive Barron rescued her, I was a slight mess. But I loved every minute of it!

 

Gracie and Barron are great characters and I enjoyed watching the love, hope, brokenness and desire for revenge play a part in the plot. Coming to terms with what life has handed you and making your own, better way is an important concept.

 

I love this author's stories, so I didn't even read the blurb and was expected a sweet and fluffy Christmas story, but I was delighted to discover that suspenseful element. A forbidden romance of sorts was a holiday treat, especially as the layers of mystery were uncovered. As they were shredded like strips of newspaper, the romantic sparks ignited them and revealed a swoony tale. It was fun to watch everything unfold in the setting of a remote wintry cabin.  

 

Content: mild romance; mild moments of peril/danger; mild+ religion

If For Any Reason (Nantucket Love Story #1) by Courtney Walsh {Review}

If For Any Reason by Courtney Walsh

Paperback, 408 pages

Published February 3rd 2020 by Tyndale House Publishers

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

Emily Ackerman has traveled the world, her constant compass and companion a book of letters her mother left for her when she died. With no father in the picture, her mom's advice has been her only true north. But when professional failure leads Emily back to Nantucket to renovate and sell the family cottage she inherited, she wonders if her mom left advice to cover this . . . especially when her grandmother arrives to "supervise." And especially when her heart becomes entangled with Hollis McGuire, the boy next door-turned-baseball star who's back on the island after a career-ending injury.

As sparks fly between her and Hollis, Emily is drawn to island life, even as she uncovers shocking secrets about the tragic accident that led to her mother's death. With her world turned upside down, Emily must choose between allowing the voices from her past to guide her future or forging her own path forward.

 

  

My Review: 4 Stars

There is something about the sea air that soothes my soul and warms my heart. Emily has traveled all over the world, but is back in Nantucket and almost immediately runs into Hollis, a friend from her past. Although there are bumps along Emily's journey and secrets to uncover, there is a comforting thread running throughout this poignant story.

Emily has a lot of challenges to overcome and this sweet book allowed for growth, love, and dreams to manifest. I loved the way Emily bonded with Jolie, which unintentionally strengthens their individual relationships with Hollis. 

The flashbacks to the past helped to complete this moving story and the whole thing encompassed every inch of my heart. 

Content: mild romance (implications to intimacy, kissing), mild+ religion

To Have and to Hold by Betsy St. Amant, Becky Wade, and Katie Ganshert {Review}

To Have and to Hold by Betsy St. Amant, Becky Wade, and Katie Ganshert

Kindle Edition, 336 pages

Published August 30th 2016 by Zondervan (first published 2015)  

Source: I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

 

Love Takes the Cake: A September Wedding Story by Betsy St. Amant

Charlotte Cantrell is always the baker; never the bride. When Will, a regular at Charlotte’s bakery, catches her attention, she can only hope that he is the reliable man this single mother has always hoped to find. The problem is that he’s regularly stopping in to buy cookies for another girl. But when Charlotte is hired to bake a host of wedding goodies for a difficult bride and finds out Will is the best man, she has the perfect opportunity to get to know him better—and find out how serious Will is about this other girl in his life.

The Perfect Arrangement: An October Wedding Story by Katie Ganshert

Amelia Woods is a small-town wallflower and the proud owner of Forget-Me-Nots, a quaint flower shop. Her love life has always been a bit lackluster—until she ends up in an embarrassing fender-bender with handsome Nate Gallagher. Meanwhile, Amelia’s younger brother, William, has proposed to his girlfriend. Amelia would be excited except she has evidence that the fiancée is not who she says she is. It seems Nate is the only one available for any advice-giving, and he’s good at it—and pretty fun to talk to, too. As Amelia works to craft the perfect flower arrangements for other people, she begins to wonder if real love is better than the dream. And if it is, will Nate still be interested when he learns who she is?

Love in the Details: A November Wedding Story by Becky Wade

When Josh returns to his hometown of Martinsburg, Texas, to help his best friend get married, he didn’t intend to run into church wedding coordinator—and ex-girlfriend—Holly. He can’t help but pine after the girl he never got over. Holly broke up with Josh years ago in an attempt to ensure his future success. But she loved him then and still loves him now. As she helps him plan his best friend’s wedding, she longs to be with Josh but doesn’t feel worthy of his big-time lifestyle when she is more comfortable in her small-town world. Will Josh and Holly be able to keep things as they are when their true feelings threaten to surface at every turn?

 

   

My Review: 4 Stars

Weddings are magical and I loved reading about these darling autumn celebrations. Each one was set in a small town and had a sweetness that was quintessential. 

My mouth was watering in LOVE TAKES THE CAKE. Charlotte bakes up the best desserts and her interest in Will was captivating--especially when a surprise discovery was uncovered. The romance was as light and fluffy sweet as whipped frosting and I especially loved the influence of the secondary characters.

THE PERFECT ARRANGEMENT had YOU'VE GOT MAIL vibes and I adored the way Nate and Amelia connected through email, using classic movie titles as their subject lines. Their meet cute was a literal bang and their connections were a bit messy and twisted, but that's what added a delightful element to their instant attraction.

Second chances at love is where it's at in LOVE IN THE DETAILS. Sometimes the timing might be off with the one who got away and a wedding and some heartfelt communication can put things back on track. I loved Holly and Josh and adored watching their past connect with their future.

Content: mild romance; mild religion

A Holiday Affair (Holiday Harbor Book 1) by Michele Paige Holmes {Review}

 

A Holiday Affair (Holiday Harbor Book 1) by Michele Paige Holmes

Kindle Edition, 227 pages

Published November 15th 2019 by Mirror Press 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

 

 

Welcome to Holiday, Alabama—population 765. In Holiday everyone knows their neighbors—and their business—a Mr. Roger’s look alike leads the local congregation Sunday mornings, and Annabelle, Breanna, and Carson have been best friends for over two decades.

On the eve of Anna and Carson’s wedding, Bree shares a secret and she and Carson embark on a journey that will break hearts and rock the town, where the biggest news is usually the size of the trout pulled from the harbor.

But the force of the river running through Holiday is nothing compared to that of its citizens, whether they’re holding a grudge, or standing behind someone. With both hearts and lives on the line, Breanna and Carson’s love story becomes a true Holiday affair.

 

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

I'm a sucker for a sweet small town romance and I was captivated, in both good and bad ways, by this story. This read won't be for everyone, as there are triggers for some and difficult content. Small towns can be sticky--everyone knows everyone's business and scandals become a fodder for gossip and grudges, yet they can also be the glue that supports a person in hard times, as is evident in many ways throughout this tale.

 

Anna, Carson, and Bree have been best friends forever and their life-long friendship is challenged by an unforeseen event, throwing these three into the most difficult trials they've yet to face. This story is full of angst, hope, redemption, and forgiveness, and I was completely immersed in the happenings. I admired the dedication and loyalty to the choices and decisions that were made and could feel the hope and pain of these characters. I kept wondering what I would do and this story, although fictional, forced me to consider how I treat others--do I unfairly judge without truly knowing the hearts and intents of others? 

Content: moderate romance (innuendo, kissing); moderate religion

Flying in Love by Chalon Linton {Review}

Flying in Love by Chalon Linton

Paperback, 200 pages

Published June 1st 2020 by Covenant Communications 

Source: Library

    

Will Paige decide to share her heart or fly solo?

Paige Hall’s happy ending may just be in sight. She has been dating her boyfriend for months and feels confident their relationship is going in the right direction—until she catches him kissing another woman. Humiliated and hurt, Paige retreats from the dating scene and pledges to never fall hard again as she throws herself into her work as a speech therapist. Her vow is upended in a grocery store parking lot when she is nearly run over by a handsome and very apologetic air force pilot.

Captain Jake Summers is everything a girl could dream of: charming, considerate, and hardworking. Despite Paige’s determination to avoid falling into another relationship, her resolve is no match for the whirlwind romance that ensues. When Jake is not flying, he and Paige are inseparable, and Paige begins to believe in happily ever afters again. But when the couple faces a heartrending loss, they must find strength in each other and in their faith or risk losing a once-in-a-lifetime love.

My Review: 4 Stars

A meet cute that makes me laugh is the perfect way to set the tone for a wonderful story. Paige has been burned recently by a relationship and has no desire to jump into another one, but really...who could resist persistent and sweet Air Force pilot Jake?

This charming tale is driven by fantastic characters, who each have inner demons to battle, while forging ahead down the path to true love, and I just couldn't get enough. Everyone has weaknesses and challenges in life and I love reading about someone else's--going through them myself isn't as fun, hah!

One aspect to this book that I really enjoyed was the relationships with mothers. The dynamic between Paige and her mother was relatable and realistic and I loved how Paige grew and realized some pretty profound things. Jake's relationship with his mom was so tender and heart tugging, and isn't it true that to see how a man will treat you, watch how he treats his mother?

As a child of the '80s, I loved the Top Gun references and kept picturing different scenes from the movie (and characters, too) as I devoured this book. Air Force life sounds difficult, yet rewarding, and this book really brought out the realities of that life.

Why just 4 stars? With as much as I loved this story, it just ended. Ended! I wanted more from this delightfully charming love story.

Content: mild romance; mild Christian elements; mild triggers (death of a loved one)

Stay with Me (A Misty River Romance #1) by Becky Wade {Blog Tour Review and Giveaway}

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Stay with Me

(A Misty River Romance #1)

By Becky Wade

Christian Contemporary Romance

Hardcover, Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages

May 5th 2020 by Bethany House Publishers



Loving her is a risk he can’t afford . . . and can’t resist.


When acclaimed Bible study author Genevieve Woodward receives an anonymous letter referencing her parents’ past, she returns to her hometown in the Blue Ridge mountains to chase down her family’s secret. However, it’s Genevieve’s own secret that catches up to her when Sam Turner, owner of an historic farm, uncovers the source of shame she’s worked so hard to hide.


Sam has embraced his sorrow, his isolation, and his identity as an outsider. He’s spent years carving out both career success and peace of mind. The last thing he wants is to rent the cottage on his property to a woman whose struggles stir his worst failure back to life. Yet, can he bear to turn her away right when she needs him most?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | Target | Christianbook

My Review: 4.5 Stars

This beautiful story has many facets and lessons embedded within. Gen and Sam are phenomenal characters with flaws and strengths that add depth and dimension to who they are. Wade does a fantastic job of embracing the hard and wrapping it up with hope and goodness, allowing the reader to follow along on an inspirational journey.

I love these character's voices, as their personalities shine through their words and actions. Sam is steady and stalwart, while Gen is more vibrant and social. They way they come together, even with resistance, is heartwarming, especially as they each have demons they face and stories to unfold through the course of the book. 

Amidst the small town charm, a small mystery develops, which succeeds to add another layer to this already great story. My only wish was to see the characters in the prequel show up more. All in all, this is a wonderfully engaging tale and I can't wait for more.

Content: mild+ romance; moderate religion; talk of drug addiction, some vague/past abuse, and murder.

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

Other Books in the Series


Take a Chance on Me

(A Misty River Romance #0.5)

By Becky Wade

Christian Contemporary Romance, Novella

ebook, 97 Pages

February 25th 2020


When baker Penelope Quinn steps in to help her brother’s family through a medical crisis, she’s forced into close proximity with charming Air Force fighter pilot Eli Price.

Penelope has one iron-clad dating rule—she does not date airmen. Months ago, she relaxed her rule with Eli and immediately lived to regret it. After a long deployment, he’s now back in Misty River and, to her dismay, she finds him just as tempting as always.

Eli’s spent months thinking about funny, feisty, creative Penelope. He once leveraged his focus and drive to become a pilot, his childhood dream. Now he's set on leveraging that same focus and drive in order to convince Penelope to give him one more chance.


This romantic prequel novella introduces readers to the quaint mountain town of Misty River and a brand-new series from Christy-winning author Becky Wade!

(Affiliate link included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Currently FREE

About the Author

Becky Wade is the 2018 Christy Award Book of the Year winner for True to You. She is a native of California who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and moved to Dallas. She published historical romances for the general market, then put her career on hold for several years to care for her children. When God called her back to writing, Becky knew He meant for her to turn her attention to Christian fiction. Her humorous, heart-pounding contemporary romance novels have won three Christy Awards, the Carol Award, the INSPY Award, and the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award for Romance. Becky lives in Dallas, Texas with her husband and three children.

Website | Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway





One winner will receive:

- A $100 gift card

- A paperback copy of Stay with Me

- A hand-knit scarf

- A pair of earrings

- A package of “Georgia Blues” coffee

- A package of apple oatmeal muffin mix



ENTER HERE

Heart on the Line (Ladies of Harper's Station Book 2) by Karen Witemeyer {Review}

Heart on the Line (Ladies of Harper's Station) by Karen Witemeyer

Kindle Edition, 336 pages

Published June 6th 2017 by Bethany House Publishers
Source: Netgalley

        

Grace Mallory is tired of running, of hiding. But when an old friend sends an after-hours telegraph transmission warning Grace that the man who has hunted her for nearly a year has discovered her location, she fears she has no choice. She can't let the villain she believes responsible for her father's death release his wrath in Harper's Station, the town that has sheltered her and blessed her with the dearest friends she's ever known.

Amos Bledsoe prefers bicycles to horses and private conversations over the telegraph wire to social gatherings with young ladies who see him as nothing more than an oddity. His telegraph companion, the mysterious Miss G, listens eagerly to his ramblings every night and delights him with tales all her own. For months, their friendship--dare he believe, courtship?--has fed his hope that he has finally found the woman God intended for him. Yet when he takes the next step to meet her in person, he discovers her life is in peril, and Amos must decide if he can shed the cocoon of his quiet nature to become the hero Grace requires. 

My Review: 4 Stars

There's not much more satisfying than a sweet romance with a tinge of danger. Grace is a telegraph operator who is in hiding after the death of her father in the mostly all female town of Harper's Station. My heart delighted in the throwback way that Amos, a telegraph operator in a neighboring town, and Grace communicated over the lines, but it was the way he rose to the occasion to offer protection that completely won me over.

The threat is lurking throughout this story, but these strong, quirky, and able characters charm the reader right through the perilous times. Although the plot is somewhat predictable, the "normal" main characters offer a way for the reader to relate. Neither is fantastically outstanding in looks and ability, yet they embody a charm and strength that is captivating.

I adored my time spent in this amusing tale and with these special characters.

Content: mild romance; moderate religious themes; very mild violence/moments of peril

Before I Called You Mine by Nicole Deese {Review}

Before I Called You Mine by Nicole Deese

Paperback, 368 pages

Expected publication: March 31st 2020 by Bethany House Publishers
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

    

Lauren Bailey may be a romantic at heart, but after a decade of matchmaking schemes gone wrong, there's only one match she's committed to now--the one that will make her a mother. Lauren is a dedicated first grade teacher in Idaho, and her love for children has led her to the path of international adoption. To satisfy her adoption agency's requirements, she gladly agreed to remain single for the foreseeable future; however, just as her long wait comes to an end, Lauren is blindsided by a complication she never saw coming: Joshua Avery.

Joshua may be a substitute teacher by day, but Lauren finds his passion for creating educational technology as fascinating as his antics in the classroom. Though she does her best to downplay the undeniable connection between them, his relentless pursuit of her heart puts her commitment to stay unattached to the test and causes her once-firm conviction to waver.

With an impossible decision looming, Lauren might very well find herself choosing between the two deepest desires of her heart . . . even if saying yes to one means letting go of the other.

My Review: 5 Stars

I used to think it might be fun to be a school teacher to little kids, but when I got older, I decided that I didn't have the patience or creativity for it, and after homeschooling my kids for a week+ through this coronavirus, I know for sure it's not for me. I applaud those who can teach and who love it, just as Lauren and Joshua do. 

Lauren is exactly the kind of teacher that every child dreams of having, just as she dreams of being a mother and of adopting a child from China. I loved the way this story shaped her character and allowed the reader to delve into her personal life. Of course, she's not perfect and her flaws endeared her even more to me. 

Joshua, on the other hand, is quirky, hilarious, and has no qualms about being his true self. The way these two mesh into a strong friendship with inklings of chemistry stole my heart, especially as they faced massive decisions and sacrifices.

I was completely captivated by this perfect cover and the emotionally charged story within. Well done, Ms. Deese!

Content: adoption; mild romance; moderate religion

The Dear Wife (More Than a Wife #3) by Jennifer Peel {Review}

The Dear Wife (More Than a Wife #3) by Jennifer Peel

Kindle Edition, 354 pages

Published February 12th 2020 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

    

She’s been holding on for dear life, now she must learn to let go.

Marathon runner and quintessential wife and mother Avery Decker appears to have it all together. But don’t let her smile fool you. Since the death of her daughter four years ago, she’s been trying to fake her way through life.

So far, it hasn’t worked out so well.

Avery is overwhelmed not only with the grief of losing her daughter, but with the fear that she’ll lose someone else she loves—her husband James. This time not to death, but to the secret demons he’s been using to cope with the loss of their little girl. Day after day she’s been privately battling to save him and their marriage, but it’s only left her exhausted and lonely. Tired of pretending, she turns to the strongest women she knows. Together they help her face the truth and realize that the only person she can save is herself. But will it cost her the person she loves the most? Or will James remember who he is and hold on to the person he holds most dear?

Content warning: This book contains sensitive subject matters including pornography addiction and the loss of a child.  

My Review: 5 Stars

Some couples seem to be perfect, but there's the key word--seems. No one is ideal and everyone has their demons to face and battles to wage--even fictional characters. Jennifer Peel manages to peel the layers back and exposed the real and raw pain and hurt that secrets can cause, allowing for a deep reader connection with these realistic protagonists.

It's not a secret that I HATE to cry, but this book turned me into a blubbering pile of goo...and more than once. Although there are some heavy and sensitive topics within these pages, I felt the glimmering threads of hope streaming throughout. I had no idea how this story would end, but I had a strong desire to see it conclude how I wanted it to. Alas, life doesn't always go as we would like or how we would plan, but how God sees fit. 

My whole world revolved around this book and these characters from start to finish and Peel tackles these tough issues in a tactfully refreshing way. I feel like a better person for reading this book and would like to think that my compassion for others has expanded because of it. This story was worth every tear in my eye, sniffle sniffed, and crack in my heart. While this may not be a book for everyone, and especially not for younger readers, I would highly recommend it.

Content: moderate romance/sexual elements (no sex, but innuendo and talk of porn, affairs, vague talk of sex--no details); moderate language; moderate religion elements; loss of a child

All's Fair in Love and Cupcakes by Betsy St. Amant {Review}

All's Fair in Love and Cupcakes by Betsy St. Amant

Paperback, 313 pages

Published September 2nd 2014 by Zondervan
Source: I received a copy through Netgalley, which didn't affect my thoughts and opinions in any way.

    

Kat inspected rows of the same old cupcakes. They seemed to blink back at her, as if they knew she was capable of so much more.

Kat Varland has had enough of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. At twenty-six years old, Kat is still living in the shadows of her family in Bayou Bend, Louisiana. Still working shifts at her Aunt Maggie's bakery. Still wondering what to do with her passion for baking and her business degree. And still single.

But when Lucas Brannen, Kat's best friend, signs her up for a reality TV bake-off on Cupcake Combat, everything Kat ever wanted is suddenly dangled in front of her: creative license as a baker, recognition as a visionary . . . and a job at a famous bakery in New York.

As the competition heats up, Lucas realizes he might have made a huge mistake. As much as he wants the best for Kat, the only thing he wants for himself, her, is suddenly in danger of slipping away.

The bright lights of reality cooking wars and the chance at a successful career dazzle Kat's senses and Lucas is faced with a difficult choice: help his friend achieve her dreams . . . or sabotage her chances to keep her in Louisiana.

My Review: 4 Stars

A cupcake competition is just what is needed to spur Kat and Lucas to explore the idea of moving from friends to lovers, but much like a piping bag overfull of buttercream frosting, things become a huge, sticky mess instead.

Kat and Lucas have an unusual best friendship because they seem to keep so many secrets from each other and things seems skewed more to one side, which drove me a little batty at times. All it takes is a little communication to keep the friendship from turning into a battlefield, people.

Kat is so determined to stand out in the world like a pumpkin scone cupcake that she can't see that sometimes strawberry is okay. The stress of this baking competition was almost the downfall of something great, but I loved watching the events unfold through the delicious and unique flavors and challenges.  

St. Amant does a great job of blending multiple tropes into a charming, cut-throat story, but do not read this if you're hungry, or you'll be craving a sugary treat (or two or three...) all day long. 

Content: mild romance; moderate religion