Born to Treason by E.B. Wheeler

Joan Pryce is not only a Catholic during the English Reformation but also Welsh, and comes from a family of proud revolutionaries. But when a small act of defiance entangles her in a deadly conspiracy, a single misstep may lead her straight to the gallows. Now, Joan must navigate a twisting path that could cost her life, her freedom, and her chance of finding love.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

It took me a little while to get into this book but it happened and I couldn't help but feel all kinds of emotions while reading it.  I don't know that I felt a lot of emotional connection to the characters but the subject matter definitely had me thinking and feeling grateful and fortunate.  

Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres for this exact reason.  I'm able to learn about a period and place in time in a way that brings it to life.  I will admit that I'm quite ignorant when it comes to Wales and it's history.  I knew very little of the plight of the Welsh Catholics until I read this book.  Religious oppression has always existed at some point or another- in almost every country on the earth.  It's such a shame.  

Joan is a young woman and an orphan.  Her parent are both deceased and she is dependent on others for her livelihood.  I like that Joan is always trying to help the downtrodden and the sad.  She loves her Catholic religion and worship brings her peace.  I loved how Joan grows as she makes decisions and learns to rely more on her own merits and judgement instead of others telling her how and what to feel.

I could tell while reading that this author did her homework.  The book felt true to the time and I came away feeling like I learned something new.

I just loved this bit from the book.  "What the heart wants is not always what our head knows is best for us.  Then it takes great courage to follow the course we know is right.  Other times, though, it takes great faith to follow what our heart whispers, even when we see no sense or hope in it." (pg. 133)

Content:  This book is based around religion so yes, there are religious elements to it.  There is some violence and some graphic violence mentioned.  Otherwise clean.  No swearing or sexual situations.

A Kiss and a Dream by Linda Andrews + $25 Giveaway

She escapes with a dead woman's name and finds sanctuary with a widower reeling from his wife's betrayal. Can a love built on lies survive the truth? Gretchen Foltz honors her late father's request and ends up locked in the workhouse by her greedy brother. Dreaming of a home and freedom, she embarks on a dangerous winter journey. She awakes in a stranger's home. Hiding behind a lie, she discovers a man worthy of her trust. Kian Bryne is struggling to feed his four children. The last thing he needs is to rescue a woman stranded on the ice and running from her own demons. With his rich in-laws threatening to take custody his children, he'll make a desperate alliance to keep his family together. When a simple kiss shatters their agreement, he's left yearning for more. Can they untangle the lies before someone separates them forever?

   

This book was really sweet.  The beginning pulls you in right away as a young woman struggles through bitter cold, ice and snow, to save herself and two young children.  I could not help but feel so much sympathy, empathy and compassion for both Gretchen and Kian.  They have heart wrenching stories and they both deserve to love and be loved.

I enjoyed this book, even though I felt like some things were underdeveloped.  I read through this book quickly and was so very happy at the outcome.  

So sweet!  Enjoy the following excerpt!

 Excerpt: In this scene, Gretchen has learned that her tickets to freedom are fakes and fears the sheriff might send her back to the poorhouse. Kian invites Gretchen to stay with him. Gretchen scrubbed at her face. "Vill he take me to another vorkhouse?" A lock of mahogany hair trailed down her back. The silken lock brushed against his finger. He'd forgotten how soft women were. "No. Ya'll stay here. With me." He could take care of her just as well as any workhouse. And she'd have more to eat. Most days, anyway. Her eyebrows arched and she held her breath. She leaned forward in her seat. "Vith you? In this fine house?" He blinked. She obviously thought he meant for some time. He'd meant until the weather cleared. Or did he? "Yea." The money collected for her fare burned a hole in his pocket. But she had family out there, waiting. Then why hadn't they picked her up? She obviously wasn't accustomed to looking after herself. Kian could look after her. And in return, she could cook and clean and tend the children. Yes. He mentally snapped his fingers. His children liked her. If Gretchen stayed, his late wife's parents would stop harassing him about custody. Once things settled down into a routine, he could send her to her family. It was a perfect plan.  

   

 

Author Linda Andrews Linda Andrews lives with her husband and three children in Phoenix, Arizona. When she announced to her family that her paranormal romance was to be published, her sister pronounce: “What else would she write? She’s never been normal.” All kidding aside, writing has become a surprising passion and she’s followed that passion into history, the future, and beyond. Sometimes, she incorporates her science background and other times, she allows the magic of love to take center stage in sweet historicals.

Website * Twitter

Blog Tour Schedule

Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 5/23/16 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.   a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Independent One: A Billionaire Bride Pact Romance (Billionaire Bride Pact) by Cami Checketts

Haley Turnbow escapes to the tropical Isla del Sol for an ideal vacation with her five-year old. She doesn’t plan on the resident ghost stalking her and the island’s fine-looking owner drawing her in with his confident, fun personality.

Cal Johnson is king of his own island, happy and busy. A beautiful mom and her wild little boy flip his world upside down. He falls in love with both of them knowing they’re going to leave at the end of their vacation and he might not recover from the loss. 

Can these two independent adults trust their hearts or is it not worth the risk?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

Is having the cutest shoes on your book cover a "thing" now?  I've been reading so many books with the cutest shoes on them.  I love the shoes on this cover.  How cute are they?  I wish I were young enough to wear them.  :) 

I'm always so happy to read books by Cami and I happen to really love this whole series which includes different authors writing about a group of girls who made a pact at a summer camp one year.  They can all stand alone and be read independently but when you read in order, sometimes you get to revisit old friends in later books and they mean more to you.

This book had the perfect island setting with sandy beaches and sunshine but it was the characters who stole my heart.  I loved Haley, Taz and Cal.  I loved them separately and I loved them together.  That little Taz was so endearing.  Cami captured four year old antics perfectly.  And Cal?  He is the man.

This book had an excellent flow to it.  There was a bit of suspense which was a fun addition.  I was invested in it and I loved the happily ever after ending.  If you are looking to feel good with a romantic escape and a few smiles, this is your book.  It was over way too fast for me!

Content:  Clean

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

 

On Tour With The Firefighter's Refrain by Loree Lough and GIVEAWAYS!

The Firefighter's Refrain

(Those Marshal Boys, #3)
by Loree Lough
Adult Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 368 pages (large print)
May 1st 2016 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He's a man who wants it all…if only he could have it....

Dreams of stardom took musician and firefighter Sam Marshall far from his Colorado roots. Starting fresh in Nashville hasn't been easy, especially after an injury on the job, but he's working his way to the Grand Ole Opry one open mike at a time, teaching at the fire station to make ends meet. Yet Sam's intentions are shaken when he meets the lovely owner of a local café. Suddenly, Sam's dreams are filled with her. Too bad that as the daughter of country-music wannabes, Finn Leary's been there, done that. She'll never choose a musician. So how can Sam possibly get the girl and keep the guitar?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin

It's another Harlequin Heartwarming book!  This is a sweet romance, perfect for girls like me who like their books clean.

This is the third book in the Those Marshall Boys series.  You don't have to read the previous books to enjoy this one, but sometimes it fun to read in sequencial order because you get to see characters from previous books as you go and they mean more to you.

I really liked both Sam and Finn but for very different reasons.  Finn is focused and so completely devoted to her sister.  Her life has been hard and Finn has shouldered the responsibility of so many things by herself.  You have to admire that sort of character.  But, because of her past and even her present life, Finn functions like an island.  She doesn't let people in and she doesn't trust easily.  That's why Sam is perfect for Finn.  He is solid, steady and smart.  He is willing to put in the time to earn Finn's trust.  I liked that.

This book was good.  I felt like the plot swirled in the same place at times without a lot of forward movement so for me, it was the characters that made this book shine.

Other Books in the Series

Once a Marine

(Those Marshal Boys, #1)

by Loree Lough

Adult Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 377 pages (large print)

February 1st 2015 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Does she even need a hero?

Summer Lane is no damsel in distress. For the past two years, she's been battling her way back from her worst nightmare, all by herself. So she doesn't need the fabulous former Marine Zach Marshall swooping in to save her.

But she needn't worry. Zach has hung up his shining armor. His instinct to rescue has only brought him heartache, and he's not about to risk it all again--even though everything about Summer makes him yearn to help.

Will she accept his challenge to step up and conquer her fears on her own--even her deepest fears, like trust...and love?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin

Sweet Mountain Rancher

(Those Marshal Boys, #2)

by Loree Lough

Adult Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 385 pages (large print)

September 1st 2015 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He can say no to everyone but her...

Nate Marshall used to be a yes-man... until being so agreeable cost him dearly. But Eden Quinn has a way of getting him to reconsider his "just say no" policy. Which is how a bunch of troubled teens end up at his ranch for the weekend. Nate can't help but be attracted to the woman who keeps them in line.

This cowboy knows Eden's no damsel in distress, yet hers isn't a one-woman job. If she must do everything on her own, how can he help her... let alone get her to fall for him?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin

Bestselling author Loree Lough once sang for her supper, performing across the U.S. and Canada. Now and then, she blows the dust from her 6-string to croon a tune or two, but mostly, she writes novels that have earned hundreds of industry and "Readers' Choice" awards, 4- and 5-star reviews, and 7 book-to-movie options. Her 105th book, Sweet Mountain Rancher, #2 in “Those Marshall Boys” series for Harlequin Heartwarming, released in August, 2015. Also new on the Latest Release list, Guardians of the Heart, (#2 “Secrets on Sterling Street historical series from Whitaker House). Next up, Healing of the Heart, #3 in the “Secrets” series…and a brand new 3-book series for Harlequin Heartwarming, releasing between 2016 and 2017. Stay tuned for more in 2016 and beyond!

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Tour Schedule

May 8th: Launch

May 9th: Singing Librarian Books & underneath the covers

May 10th: Christy's Cozy Corners, deal sharing aunt & Hardcover Feedback

May 11th: Katie's Clean Book Collection, Rockin' Book Reviews & Getting Your Read On

May 12th: Becky on Books, I Am A Reader & LibriAmoriMiei

May 13th: Teatime and Books & Thoughts of a Blonde

May 15th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

ONE WINNER will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and The Firefighter's Refrain (signed print if US, ebook if outside US)

ONE WINNER will receive Those Marshall Boys Series, Once a Marine, Sweet Mountain Rancher, and The Firefighter's Refrain (signed print if US, ebook if outside US)

ONE WINNER will receive The Firefighter's Refrain (signed print if US, ebook if outside US)
Ends May 20th

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On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

The Earl's Betrothal by Karen Tuft + $25 and Book Giveaway!

Out of the war and into another, Captain Lord Anthony Hargreaves finds the politics of romance to be as uninviting a battle as the one that nearly cost him his life in Badajoz, Spain.

Wounded both mentally and physically from the Peninsular War in 1812, Anthony returns home to find that his older brother has died, placing Anthony next in line to inherit the estate. But he’s not ready for such responsibilities. And when Anthony’s dying father pleads with him to marry and produce an heir to preserve the family title, it nearly sends Anthony over the edge; nevertheless he dutifully faces a long line of hopeful young ladies who await him. No one grabs his attention, though, like Amelia Clarke, his mother’s stunning companion, who is off-limits for the earl. But when Anthony unwittingly puts Amelia in a compromising situation, he dedicates himself to protecting her reputation.

But the horrors Anthony faced while away from home have left him feeling broken and tormented. And Anthony finds himself drawn to Miss Clarke, the only one who can chase away his demons, but he must overcome the hostility of a society driven by class, a jealous duke bent on revenge, and himself—for could Amelia ever really love a haunted man?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

Ooh, I really loved this book.  That's always a good way to start out a review, right?  

The characters in this book felt real to me and I really liked them.  They had so many good attributes that it was easy to settle in and enjoy them.  

Amelia is kind.  She is at the mercy of others for her welfare and she knows it, yet she conducts herself with dignity and decorum.  She is smart and she knows how to stand up for herself without appearing arrogant or rude.  I love the quiet strength she has.  

Even though Anthony is struggling with the awful events of the war he was involved in, he is also a kind person.  He shows respect to others.  He is a very duty conscious person and his desire to protect others is so admirable.  

I loved how the characters circled and swirled around each other.  There is chemistry and interest and it all just felt good.  This will be going down as one of my favorite books for this month!

Content:  Clean

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

*May 9th: http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/, http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/

*May 10th: http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/index.html, http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, http://www.rockinbookreviews.com/

*May 11th: http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/, http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/, http://melsshelves.blogspot.com/ 

*May 12th: http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, https://atransparentmom.com/

*May 13th: http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/, http://thethingsilovemost.com/, http://www.kindleandme.com/ 

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New Release! The Captain (Griffin Force #2) by Julie Coulter Bellon

Captain Colt Mitchell is part of the elite Griffin Force team hunting down terrorist Nazer al-Raimi. After an attack on the Canadian Parliament buildings, the team gets good intel on Nazer’s whereabouts. They plan to grab him, but when the mission goes wrong, Colt is captured and dragged away. Bruised, restrained, and disoriented, Colt is stunned to see Brenna Wilson, the Canadian intelligence officer who broke his heart years ago, standing next to Nazer. But how deep is she in the operation and can she help Colt escape?

After the devastating attack on Canadian soil, Brenna is recruited to go undercover to find out what Nazer is planning next. She’s close to her goal until her former flame Colt Mitchell is taken hostage. Walking away from him has always been her biggest regret and she knows she has to save him, even if it blows her mission. Taking matters into her own hands, she pulls off a daring escape, but Colt and Brenna must learn to trust each other again if they want to stay alive. With their hearts and their lives on the line can they survive long enough to stop Nazer from ravaging another country’s sense of security?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I always feel like such a lucky girl to be able to read and review for Julie Bellon.  Her books are so good- full of military suspense and action but not in an overly graphic way.  I love the bit of romance that weaves it's way through the story.  It's never the center stage but in this case, it was the driving force behind the way the events unfolded.

Colt and Brenna have a history.  They knew each other intimately before but went their separate ways due to Brenna's choices.  Imagine coming face to face with the person you loved when you are a hostage and she is undercover as a slave.  Wild set up, that.  

This book has awesome pacing- never a dull or droopy moment.  I love that.  I started the book dropped right into the very thick of things and it just never let up.  I was completely engaged the whole time.  It left me wondering at the end if that was a shorter book because it felt like it was over too fast.  So good.  I love this series!

Content:  Clean romance, some violence (torture, death, injuries, drugging)

I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review.

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Road Trip Collection

Six new contemporary romance novellas:

WHAT FALLING FEELS LIKE by Jolene Betty Perry
High school was years ago, and Kendell is ready to admit that Tyler, her best friend’s younger brother, has matured into a good-looking man. But the once-popular Kendell is recovering from a marriage-gone-wrong, and she regrets turning Tyler down for high school prom. On their road trip to deliver a refurbished camper, Kendell rediscovers all the reasons she liked Tyler, but it might be too late to rekindle their friendship.

ANTIQUES ROAD TRIP by Sarah M. Eden
Kelsey is living out her dream for the weekend as she participates in a reality show contest by living on an 18th century film set. The contestant who wins the show receives a trip to England and $100k, more than enough to get her through grad school. When she meets Devon, who was coerced by his sister to participate, friendship blossoms. When things go wrong for Kelsey, Devon is there to help, and she soon realizes that winning the contest isn’t what she most desires.

WOULDN’T IT BE NICE by Ranee` S. Clark
When Jacqueline's boyfriend Colin drops out of their long-planned road trip with friends to put his job first—again—it's the final nail in the coffin of their dying relationship. But then Hudson, her best friend’s brother, takes Colin's spot for the road trip, and Jacqueline’s disappointment in her ex takes a back seat to the chance for reestablishing the close ties she once had with Hudson. When their friendship detours into romance, it forces Jacqueline to question her reasons for breaking up with Colin and her future with Hudson.

HEAD OVER HEELS by Annette Lyon
Tristan is proud to be an entrepreneur, running a popular singles’ lifestyle blog. So when she gets an offer to cover a singles convention in Las Vegas, she needs to find a way to get there from another freelance job in Salt Lake without breaking into her personal savings. Her friend sets her up with a co-worker who happens to be driving that way, and Tristan is more than surprised to come face-to-face with a man she has a lot in common with, not to mention seems to click with right away. The two decide to play a prank on Tristan’s friend, and pretend that they are smitten with each other, but soon, the lines between pretend and reality start to fade.

TWO DOZEN ROSES by Heather B. Moore
Dayna reluctantly takes time out of her busy work life to drive her mother up the Pacific Coast Highway from California to her brother’s home in Oregon. Strangely enough, they keep running into two brothers who are traveling the same route in honor of their sister’s memory. The older brother Garrett is a merciless flirt, but the younger brother Roman is who captures Dayna’s attention. Soon she realizes that the brothers are extremely competitive, and she’s just become their next target.

TRY, TRY AGAIN by Aubrey Mace
Sarah’s secret crush on Justin takes a sudden turn when he breaks up with his girlfriend and declares that he’s interested in Sarah. She believes he’s just on the rebound, and they slowly drift apart. Six months later, Sarah still can’t stop thinking about what might have been. She ropes her friend into taking a road trip to visit Justin, hoping for a second chance. When Justin sees her, he wants answers, and Sarah has to decide if she’s brave enough to finally tell him the truth.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I always enjoy these Timeless Romance Anthologies but I especially liked this one.  Do I say that every time?  This was one of my favorites.  (I think I might say that every time as well)  These are some of my favorite authors and it's awesome having stories by them all in one place.  (I know I say that every time!)

The road trip theme is such a fun one.  I loved how each of these authors took it to a different place and in a different way.  Sarah Eden really knocked it out of the park with her take on the road trip theme.  So fun!  

All sweet romances.  All clean.  All will leave you with a smile in your heart and hopefully on your face as well!  I've got nothing but love for this collection!