Another Chance to Dream (de Piaget #1) by Lynn Kurland {Review}

  

Another Chance to Dream (de Piaget #1) by Lynn Kurland

Paperback, 432 pages

Published December 1st 1998 by Berkley Publishing 

Source: Audiobook

 

  

 

With neither title nor land, Rhys could not win the hand of Gwennelyn of Segrave. But he would always have her heart. The two are kindred souls...Rhys, a knight with far too many notions of chivalry for his own good. And Gwen, a lover of minstral tales, waiting to be swept away. But Gwen is betrothed to another man, and Rhys fears he will lose her forever. Until a surprise offer comes his way—bringing Rhys and Gwen a second chance at love...

 

My Review: 4 Stars

 

A tale of a dashing knight and his beautiful lady is bound to be perfection and I absolutely adored parts of this story. I was hoping that with their kindred hearts and instant, deep love, Rhys and Gwen would slay dragons to be together and do whatever it took to find love and happiness, but alas, that would have been too easy. Instead, the sacrifices they each had to endure were almost heart wrenching and it was hard to understand at times why they put themselves in that situation. 

 

There is so much longing and angst, but with some solid secondary characters, I was hooked--precocious Robin, the Viking Twins, Montgomery, and the grandfather, to name a few. Rhys is chivalrous and all that I imagine a knight to be, but Gwen wasn't the lady I imagined her to be. She was very headstrong, but also demanding and entitled, which made it hard for me to endure her at first. I enjoyed watching the characters mellow and grow, but it was occasionally a long, arduous journey to get there.

 

I listened to this story and although there were parts that bothered me or dragged on, I couldn't stop listening and did enjoy it. I've read other books in this series and it was fun to get to the roots of the family and see their tale unfold.

 

Content: moderate romance (talk of infidelity, fade-to-black scenes--not graphic); mild+ violence (some abuse/mistreatment, fighting); mild language

Magnolia's Choice by Anna del C. Dye {Review}

Magnolia's Choice by Anna del C. Dye

Kindle Edition, 175 pages

Published March 5th 2019 

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

 

    

 

Princess Magnolia refuses to be tied to her kingdom, Bellavista, at her father’s decree. One night, she took charge and escaped to Grayville, a neighboring kingdom. However, it’s one frightful escapade to the next until she met Robin, the knight in shining armor, and the kingdom which stole her heart years ago.*****Robin, the prince of Grayville, cannot forget the enchanting, yet distressed, girl who fell into his arms two years ago. He was disguised and exploring the city with his two best friends and she knew him not. Who is she and where did she go? Some say time makes everything better, but the hole in his heart grows ever painfully empty. Dare he dream of having her back in his arms?

 

My Review: 3 Stars

 

I love finding a sweet and gentle family-friendly tale, especially a medieval royal romance such as this one. Magnolia has questions that she wants answered and wants to experience more in life than just her tiny corner of the world. She has big dreams and sets out to discover and fulfill them one night and the adventures ensue. 

 

I did wish for more showing, instead of telling, but the characters and plot were pleasant. It was also told in different points-of-view, but wasn't always clear on who was speaking (alternating chapters with heading clearing stating who's head the read was in would have been helpful). That aside and to sum it up, this is a simple and easy story that is entertaining and clean.

Content: very mild romance; very mild adventure

From Ash and Stone by Julie Daines {Blog Tour Review and Giveaway}

From Ash and Stone by Julie Daines

Paperback, 240 pages

Published December 1st 2018 by Covenant Communications, Inc. 

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

    

Lady Margaret Grey of Hartfell wants for nothing. The daughter of a knight, she has a loving family, wealth, and even a secret romance with the blacksmith's son. But all that is torn from her one fateful night when her home is attacked and her family killed. She is left with nothing but bitterness, an unwavering mistrust of men, and a strange and mysterious curse that allows her to feel the thoughts of anyone who touches her.

Now, after six years away, Margaret is returning home for one reason: revenge. She hopes that by avenging her family's deaths, she will somehow be freed from her curse. But it won't be easy. The identities of the raiders are still unknown, she has little left to her name, and traveling alone in the Northumbrian hills during the border wars is dangerous. Matters are further complicated by handsome Angus Robson, a Scotsman whose charm threatens to distract her from her plans. But the raiders are closer than she knows, and Margaret soon realizes that what she believed to be a curse may be the key to finding those she seeks. One touch will reveal the truth.

My Review: 5 Stars  

There are elements of danger and excitement embedded within these pages that once again confirm that while these times and events are entertaining, I would never survive actually living in them.

Margaret is one brave, strong, and stubborn woman! She is intent on finding out who is responsible for killing off her family and for leaving her with a curse. This curse is slightly fascinating, yet disturbing, and aids her in her quest. I loved how this component gives such an interesting aspect to this tale.

Angus is such a persistent sweetheart. Am I allowed to say that about this tough Scotsman? It's all in the little things that he does to show he cares. That's what endeared him to me and I loved the role he plays in supporting Margaret.

These really are dangerous situations and I really enjoyed the adventure and mystery, as I immersed myself in this book.

Content: mild romance; mild+ elements of danger/violence; death

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To Win a Lady's Heart by Sian Ann Bessey {Blog Tour Review and Giveaway}

To Win a Lady's Heart by Sian Ann Bessey

Kindle Edition, 250 pages

Published November 1st 2016 by Covenant Communications

For eighteen years, Lord Gilbert has been tortured over a grievous lapse in judgment. Bitterness has tainted his interactions with the people of Moreland and his relationship with his only daughter, Lady Joanna. With a wolfhound guarding her around the clock and no freedom to leave the castle grounds unattended, the only time Lady Joanna can be alone is when she sneaks out through an old castle tunnel to visit the healer Agnes in her cottage by the sea. One morning as Lady Joanna approaches the cliffs, she discovers an injured man. She immediately goes to Agnes for help. The wounded stranger is Sir Lukas, and while he recovers, he makes plans to identify his attackers and their motive. Upon learning that Moreland’s wool has been stolen, Sir Lukas comes to believe that the crimes are related and point to a much more sinister plot. When Lord Gilbert announces an archery tournament, the prize being Lady Joanna’s hand in marriage, it attracts noblemen from across the land, and suddenly Sir Lukas’s pursuit of the villains takes a different turn. As Lady Joanna’s and Sir Lukas’s feelings for each other grow, the stakes soar, and only Sir Lukas’s skill with a longbow can save them.
 

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My Review: 5 Stars

I've always had a soft spot in my heart for stories of brave knights, beautiful and strong ladies, dastardly villains, and dangerous plots. With a fantastic assortment of characters, this story stole my heart and captured my attention from the first page.

Lady Joanna is a devious young woman--but in a good way, if that makes sense. She takes risks to make friends, help others, and enjoy life a little, but has to do so secretly. She's the type of character that a reader can't help but adore, with her headstrong ways and her good heart. Sir Lukas is exactly the type of hero that charms the socks off a girl. He's strong, brave, loyal, and willing to do whatever it takes to uncover the glimpses of evil that he catches. With danger lurking around every dark corner due to a challenge that will win one lucky man Joanna's hand in marriage, it's up to this duo to save the day--in more ways than one.

This book is just what my soul needed. I love the way the plot is spun into a swoon-worthy tale that has all the right elements to make a very intriguing story that is sure to enchant any reader. I was taken back to my youth, when I would dream of tales such as this becoming my reality, yet the book is realistic and consistent enough to be believable. I believe that good will conquer evil and that true love does exist. But I also know that it takes a lot of hard work to get to that happily ever after. This journey is definitely one worth reading about.

Content: mild-moderate violence; mild romance.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I voluntarily reviewed this book and all opinions expressed are my own.*

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A Crimson Frost by Marcia Lynn McClure {Review}

A Crimson Frost by Marcia Lynn McClure

Paperback, 308 pages

Published May 12th 2009 by Distractions Ink 

Beloved of her father, King Dacian, and adored by her people, the Scarlet Princess Monet endeavored to serve her kingdom well—for the people of the Kingdom of Karvana were good, and worthy of service.
Long Monet had known that even her marriage would serve her people. Her husband would be chosen for her—for this was the way of royal existence. Still, as any woman does—peasant or princess—Monet dreamt of owning true love—of owning choice in love. Thus, each time the raven-haired, sapphire-eyed, Crimson Knight of Karvana rode near, Monet knew regret—for in secret, she loved him—and she could not choose him.
As an arrogant king from another kingdom began to wage war against Karvana, Karvana's king, knights and soldiers answered the challenge. The Princess Monet would also know battle. As the Crimson Knight battled with armor and blade—so the Scarlet Princess would battle in sacrifice and with secrets held. Thus, when the charge was given to preserve the heart of Karvana, Monet endeavored to serve her kingdom and forget her secreted love. Yet, love is not so easily forgotten.

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My Review: 5 Stars

I read this one years ago and put it on my Reading Challenge 2016 as my book to read again. I have a thing for royalty and found myself swooning all over again throughout this romance between a princess and a knight. This is one of my favorites by this author.

Monet's kingdom is on the verge of war with a neighboring kingdom. To keep her safe, her father sends her into exile with the Crimson Knight to protect her, as her husband, in name only. A huge, hulking knight would be intimidating, for sure, but Monet's heart has always held him close and as they get to know each other, a fun, bantering camaraderie develops and the romantic tension is a delight. 

A marriage of convenience is one of my favorite book relationships and I love the way this one happens. Who could resist a strong, brave knight and a beautiful, empathetic princess? There are surprises, suspenseful moments, swoony romance, and great characters in this smooth-flowing story. This author is a master at kissing scenes, as well at flowery imagery and descriptions.

Content: mild romance (swoony kisses, some vague innuendo); mild-moderate violence (nothing too graphic, but war, war violence, torture, etc). Clean!

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Buy Links:

About the Author:

 Marcia Lynn McClure's intoxicating succession of novels, novellas, and e-books--including The Visions of Ransom Lake, A Crimson Frost, The Pirate Ruse, and Kissing Cousins--has established her as one of the most favored and engaging authors of true romance. Her unprecedented forte in weaving captivating stories of western, medieval, regency, and contemporary amour void of brusque intimacy has earned her the title "The Queen of Kissing."

Marcia, who was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has spent her life intrigued with people, history, love, and romance. A wife, mother, grandmother, family historian, poet, and author, Marcia Lynn McClure spins her tales of splendor for the sake of offering respite through the beauty, mirth, and delight of a worthwhile and wonderful story.

Visit www.marcialynnmcclure.com for more information on Marcia Lynn McClure and her books, or contact her at marcialmcclure@cs.com.

Review: Honor: Second Novel of Rhynan by Rachel Rossano

Honor: Second Novel of Rhynan (Novels of Rhynan Book 2) by Rachel Rossano
Published February 2015 by Smashwords Edition
Source: I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
My Rating: 4 Stars



Description: 

The Earl of Dentin excels in his position as Securer of the Realm. But the king’s order to pluck an orphaned child from a loving home unsettles Dentin. When a dark-eyed woman challenges his honor regarding the mission, Dentin finds himself unable to justify his actions or get her out of his mind. Something about her lack of fear intrigues him.


Lady Elsa Reeve attempts to avoid the marriage of convenience her brother and mother demand of her. She understands the need to pay off her brother's massive debt. She only wants her family to consider her wishes in the process.


As Elsa becomes further entangled in a snare of her brother’s creating, only one man defends her. But can she trust Dentin, her unlikely champion, and his motives? With a murderer on the loose, Elsa’s fate in jeopardy, and a traitor plotting against the king, Dentin finds his priorities shifting in an unexpected direction.

My Review:

I haven't read Duty, the first book, which is fine, except for one thing. Honor starts out with a characters list and with a kindle, it was a pain to access frequently. I felt like the characters were dumped into my lap and it took awhile to figure out and remember who they all were. I read through the list, but there were so many names and places and none of it meant anything to me.

Once I got my bearings, I found that I did enjoy the story. It shifts back and forth between characters, but I enjoy that. I like getting into more than one head to see what makes them tick. Elsa's brother is trying to force her into marriage to benefit himself. She is strong and brave enough to speak her mind, not only with her family, but with a handsome stranger who is trying to honor a duty to the king--Dentin.

This story takes place in a fictional medieval place, but has all of the elements of that type of story--adventure, romance, intrigue, and suspense. The characters are great. I hated the evil ones and really liked the good ones. I enjoyed it and loved that the story stayed fun and entertaining, yet is clean.

Content: mild romance (kissing); mild-moderate violence, due to the time it takes place in; nothing else of note. Clean!

Buy Links:

About the Author: 

I was born in the northern midwest to a missionary pastor and his wife. As the oldest of four, I learned to be mature and responsible at an early age. That, however, did not prevent me from having constant flights of fancy. In my early teens, those flights of fancy began to make it to the page. I have always loved reading and constantly had my nose in a book growing up (fuel for those fanciful flights). It seemed only natural to start putting my adventures into words to share.

I love to read, discuss, and listen to comments on a wide variety of topics, both fiction and non-fiction. I look forward to interacting with others on this site. :)

Twitter  ||  Amazon  ||  Goodreads  ||  Website 

 

Review: Midnight Runner by Marilee Jackson

  Tour Schedule

 

Midnight Runner by Marilee Jackson

Paperback, 272 pages

Published February 10th 2015 by Cedar Fort Publishing & Media 

Source: I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Description: Mistreated for years, orphaned Moira dreams of building a new life in the royal city. Little does she know that her dreams will cost more than just her own fate. This medieval tale of romance, mistaken identities, and long-sought redemption will change how you feel about villains and heroines, loss and love.

My Review:  When I started this story, I was very intrigued by the prologue. A young girl, Moira, who doesn't know her father is suddenly orphaned and taken in by the neighbors. As the story went on, I really felt a Cinderella vibe--Moira is basically mistreated and is a servant for this family. When given the chance, she escapes and finds herself given an opportunity to be rescued by a Prince Charming kind of guy, Brian. 

The similarities end there. I guess I was expecting the story to follow along the lines of a Fairy Tale, but this one didn't. I just couldn't like Moira. She was very naive, shallow, a liar, and selfish. She only thought of herself in most of the many choices she had to make, which probably stemmed from her upbringing and her fight to survive. Instead of breaking the mold of running and distrusting, she allowed it to rule her life. So many poor choices were made that just broke my heart to pieces!

Brian was a terrific guy. No girl ever turned his head until Moira came along. I felt that he had so much to offer and so much to give and he wasn't way too much time on someone who wouldn't ever return it. It's too bad that he was so naive and shallow, too. After a few meetings, here were his thought: "All he wanted was a beautiful wife to share his life with and a son to pass on his farm." By rushing into it too fast, his heart was broken to pieces, too. 

The adventure was full of emotion and I did want to see how it ended. In a way, it ended well, yet it was overshadowed by the unexpected. I just couldn't feel complete happiness with the way it wrapped up. For a book to get me this riled up, it must be pretty okay.

Content: Moderately clean romance (kissing, implied love making between a married couple, some innuendo); no language or religious elements; mild violence (murder, hanging, abuse--not descriptive). 

 

 

About the Author:

Marilee Jackson is an avid reader and has dabbled in writing since the third grade. She stays home and chases her four rug rats around. She lives in a tiny Arizona town (don’t blink you’ll miss it) with her amazing husband and their four children. Midnight Runner is her first novel.

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Warrior's Moon by Jaclyn M. Hawkes Blog Tour/Giveaway and Review

Warrior's Moon Medieval Historical Romance by Jaclyn M. Hawkes   Never in all the kingdom has there been a more brave and protective champion. Nor such a loyal and capable maiden. And they loved each other desperately. But is their love strong enough to withstand all their dark age holds—danger, feudalism, disease, and unfair oppression? Yes, they truly loved each other desperately. They loved their kingdom more.  

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Praise for Warrior's Moon

"This book has adventure, memorable characters, and tons of action. There is even romance! I absolutely loved it!!!" ~Laura (Goodreads)

"I loved this book! Great characters, I love a strong female lead. I really enjoy all of Jaclyn Hawkes books, but I must say this in one of my favorites!" ~ KMon (Amazon)

Tour Schedule

My Review: *****--5 Stars

I love stories about princesses, but stories about knights are pretty much just as good, if not better--at least, in my opinion. I enjoyed the way the story started off, with Chantaya (LOVE her name) being a little, tiny girl. When her family was in an accident, they were rescued by Peyton's family and Chantaya immediately clung to Peyton. From that time on, she went where Peyton and his brother went and learned what they learned.  I loved how they met Sir Mordecai and how kind and helpful he was. I loved watching Peyton grow into a man and loved how strong, valiant, and wonderful he was. How could a girl not fall completely in love with him? Chantaya is the kind of girl every girl dreams of being--absolutely beautiful, without realizing it, very nice, insanely brave, and a great cook. The ending took a turn that was a little surprising, but it was great. The romance that develops is so sweet and real, being tender, yet passionate. I just couldn't get enough--this one is definitely on my list of favorites.

Content: kissing, some fighting/violence, but not too graphic, a few very mild instances of language. Clean!

Author Jaclyn M. Hawkes

Jaclyn M. Hawkes grew up in Utah with 6 sisters, 4 brothers and any number of pets. (It was never boring!) She got a bachelor’s degree, had a career and traveled extensively before settling down to her life’s work of being the mother of four magnificent and sometimes challenging children. She loves shellfish, the out of doors, the youth and hearing her children laugh. She and her fine husband, their family, and their sometimes very large pets, now live in a mountain valley in northern Utah, where it smells like heaven and kids still move sprinkler pipe.

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  Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 2/23/14 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.   a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson

****--4 Stars.
November 2011, 288 pages.

Description (from amazon):
An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice. Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past. Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart. 

My Review:
Annabel's family hasn't done their share of the work in the village and they are demanded to pay back the three years they've neglected. Since her father has died and they have no money, she goes to work, as an indentured servant for the "beast." Her dream is to become a nun, but there are many men who want her attentions.

Set in the medieval ages, this story has a Beauty and the Beast feel to it, but with a Christian twist. Beauty and the Beast has always been one of my favorite fairy tales. 

I really liked Annabel. She knew what she wanted in life and worked hard to get it, yet was so kind to those around her. She definitely didn't use people, like some of the girls around her did. She is definitely someone to look up to.

Content: a man tries to attack a girl, otherwise clean.

Book Review: The Knight of Redmond by Jennifer K. Clark

***1/2 (3.5) Stars
Publication: May 2013
Length: 272 pages

Book Description: Lily is desperate to experience the world beyond her small village. A summer trip through the kingdom in the company of her uncle promises just the sort of escape she yearns for until, scarcely a day into their journey, the threat of battle on the road ahead ends her exploration before it’s even begun. But the path home proves more perilous than she could have imagined. After a terrifying encounter with her uncle’s merciless adversary, Lily must flee for her life. Separated from her uncle, she has no choice but to enter enemy territory alone. It appears that adventure is on the horizon after all . . .Thrust into an unfamiliar world, Lily is forced to align herself with Wren, a young knight from a rival land. With war looming, they must set aside generations of contention to save the ruling family—as well as Lily’s own people—from annihilation. But when a shocking secret is revealed, her allegiance to her clan—and her growing feelings for Wren—are called into question. Now, Lily must make a choice: continue on the conflict-ridden path of her kin, or break down the barriers in her land . . . and her heart.

My Review: Where to start? Positives first or negatives? I guess I'll go with the bad to get it out of the way, although there's nothing really bad to say. It started out a little slow for me. I understand that Lily had a lot of reasons to be negative, but she seemed to really dwell on those things and for me, it bogged the story down for the first little bit. About 1/4 of the way through, things started to pick up more, although Lily was still pretty negative. It's crazy because she had an awful family--who should she trust??--even her own parents had their lies. I guess in spite of all these feelings, I wanted more emotion from her. Not drama-queen emotion, but real, raw emotion.

Whew. Moving on. I did like the way Wren wriggled his way into her life. Even though he's from Redmond, he is a really good, powerful guy.

I also liked the adventure. The thought of knights roaming around and of all the battles going on--it was very exciting and I felt it was an original story. And I must mention--I love the cover!!

All in all, it was a great, clean book, especially for a reader who loves the tales of knights and medieval times.

If you want to buy this one, click here.