Saturday, May 28, 2016

Her One and Only by Becky Wade

Having grown up with three older brothers, Dru knows how to hold her own in the midst of conflict. After serving as a Marine, earning a black belt, and honing her shooting skills, she excels as an executive protection agent until one case goes very wrong. Now she's been assigned to protect NFL tight end Gray Fowler and she needs to do it well to recoup her professional standing. Determined to find his stalker, end the danger, and restore her reputation, she refuses to be drawn into any sort of romantic relationship, though Gray seems intent on dissuading her. The more time Gray and Dru spend together, the more they are drawn to each other. Can Dru discover Gray's stalker in time to preserve his life... and her heart? Read more in Her One and Only.

Her One and Only by Becky Wade is the fourth and final novel in the Porter Family series. This novel probably could stand alone, but Meg and Bo (from Book One, Undeniably Yours) feature prominently and I think it might feel a bit disconnected if I hadn't read the previous books. My favorite part of Dru and Gray's story was the tension and sizzle of their personalities. The obvious attraction and issues between them held my attention. The plot was nicely paced and the climax was not what I expected, making it even better. I'll definitely keep this novel and likely reread the entire series in the future. Readers who've enjoyed any of the Porter family series, thus far, will likely enjoy Her One and Only as well.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Saturday, May 21, 2016

The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson

Avelina's position as lady's maid to Lady Dorothea, daughter of the Earl of Plimmwald, shifts precariously when she assists Dorothea in running away with a knight she is desperately in love with. The earl insists that Avelina stand in Dorothea's place and attend a two-week visit to Thornbeck Castle. During her visit, Avelina must remain under cover and make sure she is not chosen as Margrave Thornbeck's desired bride, as the Margrave has invited ten ladies in an attempt to procure a bride. Unfortunately, the Margrave notes Avelina's sensitivity and candor quickly. Avelina diverts his attentions to her friend with a hidden bit of dismay as her own feelings for Margrave Thornbeck have grown beyond platonic friendsip. Will Avelina's secret keep her from true love or is there a chance that love can survive the deception, intrigue and danger permeating Thornbeck Castle? Read more in The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson.

I enjoyed The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson. Among the medieval fairy tales by Dickerson that I've read, this one falls somewhere in the middle. It wasn't my favorite or least favorite. Although, the story hooked me early on, I enjoyed the second half of the book a bit more than the first. The plot felt a bit stilted when the bride candidates were going through the “tests” and some of the “twists” were predictable. However, in the second half of the story, things seemed to flow better and the story felt more original. I enjoyed the budding romances and the refreshing forthrightness that Lady Dorothea / Avelina speaks with.

I recommend The Beautiful Pretender to readers looking for a fairy tale romance with plenty of intrigue and themes of faith.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Thursday, May 5, 2016

Tessa Afshar talks about Land of Silence

I so enjoyed this book. Got an email the other day drawing my attention to this video and thought I'd share.