Friday, November 30, 2018

November 2018 In Review - Final Day of #TFBRC




Today is the last day of The Thankful for Books Reading Challenge, hosted by I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance. We've come to the end of this challenge and the final topic is: Month In Review.

Back at the beginning of the month, I posted that I planned to read five books this month. I completed:

1. Send Down the Rain by Charles Martin.

2. Wait For Me by Susan May Warren. Read my review here.

3. All Made Up by Kara Isaac. Read my review here.





Sadly, The Lady of Tarpon Springs by Judith Miller is still sitting on the TBR stack. This was my local book club's pick for October and I still have not read it. Eek!  However, I did read The Liberty Bride by Marylu Tyndall and loved it. Review should be forthcoming very soon.




Lastly is Warfare by Tony Evans. This one is in progress and I'm nearing the end.





So, that's it. That's what November 2018 looked like in books for me. What about you? Did you find time to read? Let's chat in the comments!


Thursday, November 29, 2018

A Christian Fiction Giveaway




I'm so pleased with my blogging progress this month. My twitter following topped 1000 and I launched both a Facebook page and a Pinterest for this blog last week. So, it's time to celebrate with a giveaway!

Up for grabs is a box containing:

1. Unashamed by Francine Rivers
2. The Camera Never Lies by Elizabeth Goddard
3. The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson
4. The Last Sin Eater by Francine Rivers
5. A Cry From the Dust by Carrie Stuart Parks

All books are from my personal collection and have been read before.

Enter using the Rafflecopter. Must be a resident of the US and legally able to enter. Books will be shipped via Media Mail. No purchase necessary.



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Wednesday, November 28, 2018

Coming Soon: 12 Days of Clean Romance Spotlights and Giveaways

12 Days of Clean Romance

December 2018

During the month of December, we will be featuring 12 Authors who write clean romance!

There will be $400 worth of Giveaways plus great deals on books!

You are invited to come join the fun, learn about these great authors and find your next favorite book!

There will be FREE ebooks, awesome sales, and great giveaways!
 
Check out this great list of featured authors who are sponsoring this event!

 
Never miss a giveaway, freebie or sale by signing up for Clean Wholesome Romance's Reader Newsletter!

Are you a blogger or reader who would be willing to post about this event on your blog or social media? Sign up here.

Are you an author who writes clean romance? Learn more about CWR upcoming events here, or Sign up for my Author Newsletter.
 

To start things off we have a $100 Giveaway!




Giveaway Details: $100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/1/19.  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 may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, BookBub, Instagram, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and Clean Wholesome Romance and is sponsored by the participating authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Tuesday, November 27, 2018

New Release: My Brother's Bride by Rachael Anderson

My Brother’s Bride by Rachael Anderson

Abigail Nash leads a lonely existence. Her mother died giving birth to her, her father’s business dealings took him away more often than not, and her ailing great-aunt, unable to provide much in the way of companionship, was a lack-luster guardian at best. So when her dear friends offered to launch her into London society, it appeared Abby’s life was taking a turn for the better, with suitors and social engagements aplenty. When she marries a proclaimed darling of the ton, it seems she will at last settle into the life of her dreams.

But appearances aren’t always what they seem, and dreams often become disappointments.

 Just months into her marriage, Abby finds herself widowed, penniless, increasing, and determined to never hope again. But when her late husband’s brother, the Earl of Brigston, attempts to thaw the numbness surrounding her heart, Abby must decide if she has it in her to risk another chance at happiness, knowing the odds are not in her favor.  



Excerpt from My Brother's Bride:

When Brigston entered the kitchen, Abby’s back was partially to him, so she didn’t immediately see him. Her brow was furrowed in concentration as she whipped something in a bowl. She paused to lift the spoon, only to frown at the white liquid dripping from it.

“Are you certain this will thicken into a cream?” she asked.

A flash of irritation crossed Monsieur Roch's face until he spotted Morgan and seemed to think better of it. He managed a patient tone in his accented French. “It takes time, my lady.”

Morgan stifled a chuckle as Abby examined another spoonful of the liquid. “I’ve been whipping it for several minutes, but it doesn’t seem even a little thicker to me. Have I forgotten to add something?”

“No,” said the cook in clipped tones.

Morgan stepped forward and leaned in close. “If your arm is tired—”

Abby jumped, and what liquid remained on the spoon splattered across Morgan’s face. She spun around, her eyes growing wide with horror when she saw what she’d done.

He wiped a dab from his nose and tasted it. “A little more sugar, perhaps?”

“Brigston! I’m so dreadfully sorry.” She dropped the spoon into the bowl and grabbed a rag from a nearby wash basin, dabbing it across his face.

“Not that rag!” cried the cook. “It was only just used to mop the floors.”

Abby dropped it as though it had burned her, and Morgan tried not to cringe at the thought of filthy water coating his face.

Monsieur Roch retrieved a clean rag and held it out to him, appearing apologetic. He flicked another irritated glance at Abby before returning to his work.

As Morgan wiped the cream from his face, he wondered what Abby would do or say next. Offer another fumbled apology? Make her excuses and flee? Pretend the incident never happened and return to her labors? He never knew what to expect from her.

Her face scarlet, she cleared her throat and lifted her adorably determined chin. “You are most welcome, my lord.”

He raised a brow. “For what, my lady?”

“I have heard that cream does wonders for one’s complexion, and it seems the rumors are correct. Your skin appears much . . . creamier.”


 

Praise for My Brother's Bride by Rachael Anderson:

I found this book to be completely unexpected. I have read all the historical novels by this author and they have all been fun and delightful reads and even though this book had those elements as well, it was definitely more emotional than I was expecting... I loved Abby’s quiet strength and Morgan’s protectiveness. These two were great together. ~Melanie  

My to-read list is long but Rachael is one author I always bump to the top and put all other books on hold for. She never disappoints so it's no surprise that this is another top-notch offering from Rachael. I loved these characters and cheered for them as they overcame obstacles and circumstances that tried to keep them apart. My Brother's Bride is an awesome and needed addition to the clean romance genre. So many authors pump out books so fast that often I find the quality of their work is lacking. Since I read for entertainment I'm able to forgive a lot and typically just overlook the shortcomings that are prevalent with so many books in this genre. Thankfully that is not the case with Rachael's books. I'm grateful for the time she takes to ensure she offers her readers quality books with original storylines that won't disappoint. ~Kathy


   

 
Giveaway Details: $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash.  Ends 12/16/18.  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 and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


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Sunday, November 25, 2018

Wait For Me by Susan May Warren


About the Book:

With Jess and Pete, every day is lived at full throttle. Now if they can only stay alive to enjoy it.

Pete Brooks can't believe he's waited an entire year for EMT Jess Tagg to return to Montana, only to have her break his heart. Worse, a series of mistakes on the job has cost lives, and Pete isn't sure he wants to continue to work in search and rescue. Maybe if he can just get over Jess, he can figure out how to move forward.

When a terrible fight between Jess and Pete sparks an impulsive decision, Jess finds herself crashed on the side of a highway along with two others. Just when Jess thinks things couldn't get any worse, they are taken captive and dragged into the untamed Montana wilderness – with murderous intent.

Now Pete will have to call on everything he's learned to find them – and pray that his past mistakes don't cost him the life of the woman he can't stop loving.


My Thoughts:

Wait For Me is the final installment in the Montana Rescue series by Susan May Warren. Like the rest of the novels in this series, Wait For Me was well-written, fast-paced, and held my attention. This particular novel was stuffed with emotional angst in addition to suspense and mystery. I liked that the author quietly sewed in a theme of leaning in and trusting in God's love for His childrenShe held true to the dichotomy that while God's love will ultimately preserve us, it doesn't always prevent us from hurt and injury. Still, God's love is presented as a source of hope and reason for faith.

I recommend reading the entire series before reading Wait for Me because Jess and Pete's relationship develops substantially in other booksThe series long saga of Esme/Shae is finally resolved and the main characters from prior books play roles in Wait for Me. Readers who have enjoyed the Montana Rescue series by Susan May Warren will enjoy reading the final riveting installment. My personal favorites are Wild Montana Skies (Book 1) and Troubled Waters (Book 4). I recommend the entire series to fans of Christian romance. Each novel is filled with intense danger, growing faith, and delicious romance.


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."

Friday, November 23, 2018

Book Blast: Violin Words by Taylor Dean

Violin Words by Taylor Dean 

WHO IS THE AUTHOR?

When Jade Lockwood begins to receive anonymous love letters, she becomes a woman on a mission. She’s determined to figure out who wrote the flowery, over-the-top letters filled with the sweetest violin words she’s ever heard. She’s neglected her love life, concentrating on Lockwood Cabins, the business her father built from the ground up. But her sweet letters have awakened something inside of her, something that can’t be ignored. Facing Christmas alone this year, her emotions are already fragile. Add in a mysterious burglary, a handsome stranger, and a little deceit, and it just might be the most eventful Christmas she’s ever endured. Will Jade find her happy ending? Or will her love letters prove to be nothing more than a sinister ploy? Find out in this charming Christmas novel.  





Praise for Violin Words:

Don’t miss this fun, perfect holiday read by a master storyteller! -Mylissa Demeyere, Author of The Songs of You and Me and The Songs that Brought Me Back.

 A sweet, heartwarming romance with a twist of mystery and suspense, all wrapped up in Christmas magic that makes this one hard to put down. -Charissa Stastny, Author of The Ruled Out Romance Series


 


Excerpt from Violin Words: 

I have no clue whatsoever as to The Author of the one and only love letter I’ve ever received. I’ve neglected my love life, giving all of my attention to Lockwood Cabins. Now I realize what a mistake that has been. When I read the letter, I’m filled with sensations I didn’t know existed.

 It’s as if I can physically feel the depth behind his words. I’m taken away to another world and I just want to float away, wrapped in his love.

The author’s words are flowery and eloquent, stirring and moving. They’re as lyrical and achingly sweet as a few strokes from a violin.

Violin words.

Yes.

My letter is filled with violin words. All meant for me. And I love them.

A few simple chords from a violin inspires soul soaring emotion within me and leaves me breathless. Somehow the sound speaks to me and I have to close my eyes and thank God that I’m alive, if only to hear such a precious sound.

But when I read my love letter, my reaction is the same. Words alone have never had this effect on me. Plain and simple words—twenty-six letters all strung together in thousands of combinations—and together they form the most beautiful thoughts. I hold the letter to my chest and absorb the love.

It’s the sweetest torture, the most exquisite agony. I welcome it. To feel is to live, I know that now.

Wow. Just wow. Are those violin words really directed toward me? I always figured I’d meet someone and get married one day. But never in my wildest dreams did I imagine a man would speak to me like that. It sends a thrill through my body. Every time.   





  Author Taylor Dean Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up.












Blast Giveaway Details $50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 12/12/18 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 and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.



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Monday, November 19, 2018

The Spirit of Giving Children's Package Giveaway!


New Growth Press’ Spirit of Giving Children’s Book Giveaway

Who doesn’t love giving and getting books for Christmas? (If you don’t, we may need to have a talk!)

Books are a great gift, especially for children. Not only do we want to encourage the love of reading and give them stories they will enjoy, we want to provide teaching moments. Plus giving little ones new books is really a gift to the parents as well. They need a break from the same old bedtime stories.

You don’t have to be a parent to buy for kids, you know! Maybe you have grandkids, nieces, nephews, neighbors, or want to bless some children from church.

New Growth Press is jumping into the gift giving season by giving away THREE children’s book gift boxes (retail value of $125 each). All of their children’s books are beautifully illustrated, entertaining, teach a lesson, and most importantly, are biblically based!

From November 19-25, you can enter to win one of three children’s gift boxes.




Each gift box includes five of New Growth Press’ new children’s releases and two of their best sellers:

God Counts: Numbers in His Word and His World by Irene Sun

This playful children’s book serves as a beginner’s theology book for young readers who love numbers and patterns. By discovering numbers in God’s world and in his Word, parents help their children foster a deeper love and knowledge of who God is and how he counts them as his. With countable illustrations and an easy-to-learn structure, children who are always seeking, finding, tracing, and counting numbers will be captivated by God Counts.

Buster’s Ears Trip Him Up: When You Fail edited by Edward T. Welch
Jax’s Tail Twitches: When You are Angry edited by David Powlison
Zoe’s Hiding Place: When You are Anxious edited by David Powlison

These three books are a part of the Good News for Little Hearts series. This is a new series of hardback, illustrated children’s books for three-to eight-year-olds—each centered on an animal family. The animal characters, colorful illustrations, and the real-life issues each animal family face will captivate children. The first three books address anxiety, anger, and failure, bringing biblical counsel and hope to issues every child faces. Together children and parents will be guided by the stories into meaningful conversations about living by faith in everyday life.

God Made Me and You by Shai Linne

God Made Me and You invites kids to explore God’s design for ethnic diversity. Because Scripture teaches that ethnic diversity is not something that should be tolerated but rather enthusiastically embraced, Christian hip hop artist Shai Linne helps children, parents, and caregivers to celebrate this biblical truth through a lyrical, rhyming style and colorful illustrations.

God Made All of Me by Justin and Lindsey Holcomb

God Made All of Me is an invaluable resource and beautifully illustrated story to help families talk about sensitive issues with two- to eight-year-old children. This helpful guide starts from the fundamental truth that God created everything and applies that truth to kids and their bodies. With the help of God Made All of Me, parents and caregivers can begin conversations with boys and girls about their bodies, navigating a discussion that can so easily be warped into confusion, embarrassment, and secrecy.

The Radical Book for Kids: Exploring the Roots and Shoots of Faith by Champ Thornton

The Radical Book for Kids is a fun-filled explorer’s guide to the Bible, church history, and life for boys and girls ages eight and up. Vibrantly illustrated and chock-full of fun facts and ideas, this interactive book competes with screen time by stimulating children’s natural curiosity and sense of adventure! Along with the many fun and exciting stories of historical figures, young and old readers alike will learn about the roots of our faith and the importance of the gospel in our lives.



In case you don’t win the prize pack, sign-up for New Growth Press’ e-news at https://newgrowthpress.com/ to receive information about their Countdown to Christmas discounts so that you can order copies. Be sure to follow them on social media as well where they will be sharing daily deals throughout the Christmas season (facebook.com/ngpbooks | twitter.com/newgrowthpress | instagram.com/newgrowthpress).

Friday, November 16, 2018

100 Extraordinary Stories for Courageous Girls by Jean Fischer


About 100 Extraordinary Stories for Courageous Girls:

Girls are world-changers! And this deeply inspiring storybook proves it!

This collection of 100 extraordinary stories of women of faith – from the Bible, history, and today – will empower you to know and understand how women have made a difference in the world and how much smaller our faith (and the biblical record) would be without them.

Featuring true stories of amazing women like: Lydia, Naomi, Rahab, Rebekah, Jane Austen, Corrie Ten Boom, Bethany Hamilton-Dirks, Rosa Parks, Mother Teresa and dozens more!

The stories of these women will encourage and inspire you to become the world-changer God created you to be!



My thoughts:

My daughters and I love reading this book! I'm learning about these women right along with my daughters. I knew most of the Bible characters and some of the modern women, but there are many featured in this book I had never heard of before. Henrietta Mears, Saint Blandina, and Elizabeth Fry, to name a few. I was delighted that at least three of the stories are about women who are still living as my older daughter had asked early on if any of these women were still alive.

Take a moment to look at the photo next to this text. The items in photo were things I found in my house and they were all produced or started by women featured in this book!

Now, more about our experience with this book: 100 Extraordinary Stories for Courageous Girls by Jean Fischer is available in hardback binding with a built-in bookmark (which I love). My older daughter remarked on how much she likes the illustrations. There is one vibrant illustration for each woman's story. Some resemble the actual women and others seem to be artistic interpretation.

Both my 6YO and my 3YO enjoy this book. My older daughter and I read about six stories at a time. My 3YO loses interest after two or three. It is probably most appropriate for children ages 6-12. Each narrative concludes with a concept for reflection or a question for discussion.The stories are in alphabetical order which led to a little confusion for my 3YO as we read about Elizabeth (the mother of John in the Bible) and then about Elizabeth Elliot. She questioned if it was the same Elizabeth.

I recommend 100 Extraordinary Stories for Courageous Girls by Jean Fischer to any family with daughters. The true stories are entertaining and, as the title suggests, aimed at helping girls learn to be strong and courageous.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this complimentary book 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, November 15, 2018

Shelfie Photos - #TFBRC




Today on The Thankful for Books Reading Challenge, hosted by I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance, we are showing off SHELFIE photos!

I have two bookshelves, one in the living room and one in the bedroom. The shelves kinda make shadows, but here they are:





These are just portions of the shelves. I'm happy to say they hold a lot more than what is shown here.

What do your shelves look like? Go take a shelfie an show us all!

If you're interested in joining the Thankful for Books Reading Challenge, join here. There are prize rafflecopters and plenty of fun topics yet to come:


Friday, November 9, 2018

Lady of a Thousand Treasures by Sandra Byrd


About Lady of a Thousand Treasures:

Miss Eleanor Sheffield is a talented evaluator of antiquities, trained to know the difference between a genuine artifact and a fraud. But with her father's passing and her uncle's decline, the family business is at risk, and unmarried Eleanor cannot run Sheffield Brothers alone.

The death of a wealthy client offers an unexpected opportunity when Eleanor is appointed the temporary trustee of the baron's legendary collection. She alone must choose whether to donate the priceless treasures to a museum or allow them to pass to the baron's only living son, Harry―the man who broke Eleanor’s heart.


Harry claims to love Eleanor still, and though she yearns to believe him, there are circumstances that make her question if this is true. Yet, she also distrusts the late baron's motives, especially after he uncle and her home are attacked. With her family's finances dwindling and the threat of debtor's prison closing in, Eleanor knows that donating the baron's collection would win her favor among potential clients, saving the family and its firm. But the more time Eleanor spends with Harry, the more her faith in him grows. Can she risk bestowing upon him the treasures, and her heart, after all? 

Ultimately, Eleanor must decide whom she can trust -- who in her life is false or true, brass or gold -- and what is meant to be treasured.


My thoughts:

Lady of a Thousand Treasures is the first novel I've read by Sandra Byrd. I thoroughly enjoyed her beautiful writing. The plot and scenes were creative and unique. Unexpected intrigue and plot twists surprised me. The story held my attention from beginning to end.

I was fascinated by Eleanor's knowledge of antiquities and ability to determine an item's authenticity or lack thereof. Some of her methods were unexpected and I appreciated the extensive research the author must have done in preparing this novel. I also enjoyed Eleanor's character development as she wrestles with the dichotomy between her love of treasures and her lack of feeling treasured by anyone.

Readers looking for an inspirational tale rich in historical detail and intrigue will enjoy Lady of a Thousand Treasures. I would consider this more of a historical fiction novel than a historical romance. The love story between Eleanor and Harry is gentle and sweet, more of a renewal of past affection than a falling in love story. Lady of a Thousand Treasures is the first novel in Sandra Byrd's Victorian Ladies series and I am eager for the next installment.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this complimentary book 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."


Tuesday, November 6, 2018

Let's Talk Heartbreaking Books - #TFBRC



Today on The Thankful for Books Reading Challenge, hosted by I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance, we are discussing: HEARTBREAKERS!

I read mostly Inspirational / Christian fiction and happy endings are pretty standard. That's the way I like it.

But there are two that I've read this year that I found pretty sad.

1.  Passing By Samaria by Sharon Ewell Foster. This book was hard to read. It deals with racism and doesn't gloss over things that were done to African-Americans.

2.  Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate. Not only was the story sad, but it was based on real-life happenings which made it even worse. Thankfully, the story finished with some hope and sisterhood.





What heartbreaking books have you read?

If you're interested in joining the Thankful for Books Reading Challenge, join here. There are prize rafflecopters and plenty of fun topics yet to come:


Monday, November 5, 2018

All Made Up by Kara Isaac


About All Made Up:

Everyone thinks Katriona McLeod is living the dream. Her professional career as a make up artist sees her traveling the world working with the stars and she's got no shortage of men wanting her affection. Only problem is she's never gotten over Caleb Murphy, the one guy she's ever loved. When she accepts a job on the latest looking-for-love reality TV show, Falling for the Farmer, she discovers to her horror that Caleb is the leading man and she's cast as one of his harem. But she hides a secret that means that even if she wanted a second chance with the guy who broke her heart, she could never have it.

Caleb Murphy couldn't care less about C-Class celebrity fame or reality TV and he certainly doesn't believe it could lead him to love. The one thing he does care about is fulfilling his mother's last wish. Kat's presence on the show seems to offer up a solution that will make both the network and his mother happy. It might have been almost ten years since they split but he knows he can trust her with his plan. Just as long as he doesn't fall in love all over again with the woman who will never stay.


My thoughts:

At the end of this year, All Made Up by Kara Isaac is going to land a spot on my list of favorite reads in 2018. I haven't watched reality TV in years so I was skeptical about the book. However, so many people were raving about it that I had to see what the fuss was about. Now I'm fangirling with them. It's an amazing book! And here's why:

The story instantly hooked my attention and the romantic tension between Caleb and Kat sustained my interest. I wasn't able to read it all in one sitting and when I wasn't reading, I daydreamed up scenes of Caleb and Kat getting together, all the while wondering how the author was going to make it happen. The well-written narrative and humor-laced dialogue spun a superb story of lost love and second chances that captivated me until the end.

Kat and Caleb are strong characters individually, but they are fabulous together. Both had substantial character development throughout the story which I enjoyed. Caleb felt like a modern-day hero who respected women and didn't take advantage of them.

I appreciated the theme of a woman being valuable because of who she is, not because of her body parts. This theme played out in several characters: Kat, Mirabelle, other female contestants. The affirming voices of Caleb and Janine resounded a message relevant to girls and women of all ages: You are more than the sum of your broken parts. You are more than your body. You are valuable for who you are.

All Made Up is the first novel by Kara Isaac that I've read, but it will not be the last. It includes characters from Kara Isaac's previous novels, but functions well as a stand-alone contemporary romance. I paid for my copy of All Made Up and it was worth every cent. I highly recommend All Made Up to romantic comedy fans even if reality TV isn't your thing.

Friday, November 2, 2018

Book Blast: Just a Name by Becky Monson


About Just a Name by Becky Monson:


Holly has a plan for everything. But she never could have planned for this.

If there’s one thing Holly Murphy loves, it’s a solid plan. She has her entire life figured out—or so she thinks. But when life pulls the rug out from under her, she’s left to deal with a canceled wedding—hers, to be precise. And the promotion she’s worked toward for years is now in jeopardy because the team she supervises doesn’t like her management style. Thinking that Holly is too tightly wound and needs a break from everything, her boss demands she take a vacation. But how can she take a vacation when her promotion is on the line? Trying to help out, her best friend, Quinn, suggests she still go on her honeymoon and conduct a nationwide search to find a man with the same name as her ex-fiancé to use his plane ticket. Leaving Holly to wonder if she’s the only sane person left on the planet. Yet when her boss gets wind of the idea and loves it, Holly finds herself in a corner she can’t get out of. And when handsome Nate Jones from Newport Beach gets picked to go with her, she wonders if this whole thing won’t be so bad after all. Can Holly learn to let go? Or will this crazy adventure send her running right back to her safety net?

Get your copy on Amazon

Praise for Just A Name: “Just a Name is a delicious escape! I devoured every character, every moment, and every quirk and couldn’t get enough. This book is Becky Monson at her finest!” -Author Whitney Dineen “Becky Monson has outdone herself with Just a Name. It’s FANTASTIC! I’m still swooning.” -Author Jennifer Peel “Fans of romantic comedies should grab a copy of Just a Name; it has the perfect balance between sweet and sassy.”-Readers’ Favorite "Full of fun, swoon, and humor, all topped with unexpected twists. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in these pages!" -Katie's Clean Book Collection "I loved it. Becky Monson is so good at writing humor into her books. Sarcasm and wit reign supreme right along with a slow growing romance." - Aimee Brown from Getting Your Read On




Excerpt from Just a Name: 

“Holly?” a deep voice says from behind me as I wait for my order at the Lava Java, a quaint coffee shop across the street from my office building. Oh, please not now. Not now. Not. Now. 

What’s next? A rainstorm? Actually, that’s highly likely with the smell of rain in the air, the rumble of thunder in the distance, and the ominous clouds I saw as I walked over here. Typical springtime in Orlando.

I turn around and find Logan Palmer standing there in dark jeans, a fitted black T-shirt, and flip-flops. Or, in other words, his standard outfit. The T-shirt color can vary from day to day, but that’s about it. His light-brown hair is disheveled, and the beginnings of stubble appear around his jaw.

“Logan,” I say, feeling like a big chunk of ice just landed in my belly.

So far this morning, I’ve found out my team hates me—and I could miss out on one of the biggest opportunities of my career because of it—and my boss wants me to run away on some crazy trip before I can even fix it. And now? Now I run into Nathan’s best friend, roommate, and business partner, who has never liked me, and I’m quite sure is one of the reasons things ended like they did. The way Nathan broke it off wreaked of Logan, actually.

“How . . . are you?” he asks, his fingers extending and then clenching into fists at his sides. Even with my average height and three-inch heels he has to peer down at me, his sea-blue eyes searching my face as he does. He looks . . . nervous.


About Author Becky Monson: By day, Becky Monson is a mother to three young children, and a wife. By night, she escapes with reading books and writing. An award-winning author, Becky uses humor and true-life experiences to bring her characters to life. She loves all things chick-lit (movies, books, etc.), and wishes she had a British accent. She has recently given up Diet Coke for the fiftieth time and is hopeful this time will last... but it probably won't. 






Giveaway Details $50 Amazon Gift Code or $50 in Paypal Cash Ends 11/27/18 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. 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. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Thursday, November 1, 2018

November Reading Goals - Day 1 of #TFBRC



Happy November!

The Thankful for Books Reading Challenge, hosted by I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance, commences today and we are discussing: READING GOALS!

I have a goal of reading five books this month:

1. Send Down the Rain by Charles Martin - This is my local book club's pick for November.

2. Wait for Me by Susan May Warren - The last of the fabulous Montana Rescue series. I've been waiting for Jess and Pete's story!!!

3. All Made Up by Kara Isaac - I've heard such good things about this one!

4. The Lady of Tarpon Springs - This was actually the October pick for my local book club, but I never got around to reading it. Oops!

5. Warfare by Tony Evans - I've listened to Tony Evans / The Urban Alternative for a long time, but this is my first book by him.



 
If you're interested in joining the Thankful for Books Reading Challenge, join here. There are prize rafflecopters and plenty of fun topics to come: