A Christmas Waltz by Josi S. Kilpack

 

One dance, once a year.

This defines Marta and David’s friendship from the moment they first meet at the Yuletide Ball. Now, dancing the annual Christmas Waltz is a tradition between the pair in which they agree to tell each other the truth about their lives. Over the years that follow, their lives take different directions, wrong turns, and heartbreaking spirals, but they never miss their chance to reconnect and encourage one another to live their best lives, even if they can’t live them side by side.

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This book was not what I was expecting it to be.  It definitely isn't your typical romance book in the way it is laid out.  Each chapter is told from alternating perspectives and at their dance together each year.  It begins when Marta is just 16 and David is much older.  Most of the book is, honestly, a bit sad.  Marta and David come together once a year to dance and recap their past year.  It's mostly disappointment, unfulfilled dreams, loneliness, death and struggle.  It has an air of melancholy. They do encourage each other during those brief moments, sometimes more than others and usually one person more than the other.  You definitely get to know both Marta and David- but without a lot of the good things to balance out the hard things. The Christmas Waltz is, for both of them, the highlight of their year.

This book definitely has depth and is neither light nor fluffy.  There isn't a lot of happiness but there is always a thread of hope.  I'm a little sad this week so I think my sad may have leaked into my feelings about this book.  I liked it but I didn't love it.

Can I just say that I LOVE this cover?  I think it is absolutely gorgeous.

Content:  depression, marital affair mentioned, death mentioned.  Kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Candy Cane Caper (A Culinary Mystery) by Josi S. Kilpack + Book Giveaway!

This Christmas, Sadie Hoffmiller Cunningham is making a list and checking it twice. For the first time since she and Pete married five years ago, their combined families are gathering for the holidays in Fort Collins, Colorado, for a party that would make Santa and Mrs. Claus proud.

She just has to bake the famous Cunningham Candy Cane Cake, make sure the looming snowstorm doesn't derail everyone's travel plans, and oh, yes, solve one teensy-tiny mystery before the big day.

At ninety-four and nearly blind, Mary, Sadie's friend and neighbor, knows this will be her last Christmas. When Sadie learns that someone has stolen antique Christmas ornaments from Mary's tree, she vows to find the thief, no matter what. The ornaments had been appraised at more than $40,000, but they were worth even more to Mary, who had intended to bequeath them to her great-granddaughter, Joy, as a final gift.

With Pete in Arizona wrapping up a case of his own, it's up to Sadie to question the residents of Nicholas House, where Mary lives, and deduce who had the means and the motive to steal heirloom ornaments during what should be the most wonderful time of the year.

When stories of other thefts surface, Sadie feels like she's creating a "naughty" list that could rival Santa's. Identifying the thief, recovering the ornaments, and restoring them to Mary's tree in time will take a Christmas miracle—and maybe a few extra-special cookies.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book * 

It's been awhile since I read a Sadie Hoffmiller culinary mystery!  It was so good to be back in the crazy that is Sadie's life.  She has mellowed a bit since her first books but she is still the same Sadie and I've kind of missed her.

Mysteries are Sadie's thing and when her friend's prized ornaments go missing, Sadie is on the case in an instant.  Her investigations have her talking to lots of people and that's where I find the most satisfaction.  She makes connections with people and learns about them.  Even though I'm always wondering who did it, I am enjoying the growing relationships and how perceptions change as Sadie gets to know people.  There is always guaranteed to be a scene or two that will make you smile because Sadie can't help but get herself into an embarrassing scrape or two.

This is a sweet mystery, cozy, and full of fun recipes, perfect for the holiday season.  There are a couple I'm going to try for sure.  

I have two copies of this book so I'm giving one away!!  The giveaway is for US residents only as it is a physical book and I'll need to ship it.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author:

Josi S. Kilpack is an accomplished and prolific author of nearly two dozen novels including the Sadie Hoffmiller Culinary Mystery Series. She has won multiple Whitney Awards for Myster/Suspense, Romance, and Novel of the Year as well as the Utah Best of State Fiction Winner. She lives with her family in Utah.

Follow the author on Instagram @authorjosiskilpack  

Daisies and Devotion (Mayfield Family #2) by Josi S. Kilpack

Timothy Mayfield is ready to marry for love, but, since his personal finances are thinner than he’d like, he knows he’ll also need to find a wife with wealth. After receiving an unexpected inheritance, Timothy’s circumstances change, and he is free to pursue his “perfect woman”—one with blonde hair, blue eyes, a light laugh, arched eyebrows, elegant fingers, and a dazzling smile, among nearly twenty other characteristics.

Maryann Morrington doesn’t match anything on Timothy’s list—except for wealth. An heiress in her own right, she is tired of men pursuing her only for her money. But at nearly twenty-two years old, and not a particularly stunning beauty, she can’t be as picky as her friend Timothy is.

The two friends end up playing matchmaker for each other. Timothy will find a decent gentleman for Maryann, and Maryann will prove to Timothy that his “perfect woman” doesn’t exist.

Until Miss Shaw comes to London.

Now, with Timothy’s heart captivated by the blonde, blue-eyed beauty, Maryann must decide if she should risk her heart and reveal her true feelings for her friend, or if she should settle for someone else. It’s an up-and-down game of “he loves me, he loves me not” with both hearts and friendship on the line.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

Sigh.  This book was so sweet.  So gentle.  I just loved how softly it fell around my heart.

Maryann is a fantastic character.  Her personality is well defined and I love how she is unlike the "norm" for the time.  She speaks her mind, stands up for herself but never in an unkind way.  She is gentle but strong too.  She laughs loudly when amusement fills her.  Maryann is exactly the kind of person I would love to be friends with.  Evidently, Timothy feels the same way.   Poor Maryann.  Try as she might, she just cannot help but wish for more with Timothy even when he insults her (multiple times) and puts her firmly in the friend box. 

It's such an interesting dynamic between Maryann and Timothy.  I was invested and interested in them from beginning to end.  I loved the ending chapters because by that time I really felt like I knew both Maryann and Timothy.  The anticipation for me as a reader was heightened and all my emotions were there.  I LOVE that. 

This book is part of a series but I think each book can stand on it's own.  I would recommend reading them in order just for your own enjoyment.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

 

Promises and Primroses by Josi S. Kilpack

Lord Elliott Mayfield aims to correct the very messy marital mistakes and spousal scandals of his brothers and sisters by requiring his nieces and nephews to choose worthy companions. If they choose wisely, they will receive their generous share of the family’s inheritance.

Peter, Elliott’s eldest nephew, thinks the entire idea is ridiculous. A widower with two young daughters, he simply needs a governess, not a wife. Julia Hollingsworth certainly has the credentials and the experience, but is altogether too young and pretty for such a job. So why can’t he stop thinking about her?

Julia loves working as a governess, despite the objections of her mother, Amelia. And as it turns out, Amelia has a lot to say about the Mayfield men—none of it good. But Julia dismisses the rumors of ruined reputations and instead concentrates on helping Peter with his children and his fledgling business in canine husbandry. His kindness and gentleness is endearing—and increasingly attractive.

But Amelia, whose heart was broken thirty years ago by none other than Elliott Mayfield, is determined to prevent any relationship from blooming either between Peter and Julia—or between herself and Elliott.

Hearts and history collide as both couples must face their pasts and decide if risking it all is worth the promise of new love and a new future.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

Josi Kilpack is an author I have complete confidence in.  I know that no matter what she writes, I am going to enjoy it.  She has ventured into some varying genres over the years and I am always so impressed with her ability to write such great stories.

This is the beginning of a new series and it gives us a great introduction to a family, led by an uncle that is trying to change their bad reputations.  You just have to know that this set up will bring us several interesting characters!  Honestly, I was completely confused and a little overwhelmed as I studied the family tree in the beginning of the book.  I eventually gave up and decided to just start the story and refer back if I needed to.  I think the family tree will be more helpful in future books as more characters are introduced.

I really loved Peter in this story.  He is so determined to do everything exactly right and properly.  Given his history, this mentality makes perfect sense.  But unfortunately, love rarely makes perfect sense.  Poor Peter is really thrown for a loop.

Julia is everything lovely.  I would love to have her as a friend.

There are two separate story lines happening in this book, sort of intertwining their way around each other.  I liked the alternating voices which gave me a chance to understand the character's way of thinking and (kind of) like them even when they were acting very unlikable.  (Amelia!)

I'm excited to see where this new series takes us!

Content:  Clean

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

As Wide as the Sky by Jessica Pack

Five a.m.: Amanda Mallorie wakes to the knowledge that her son Robbie is gone. And a new chapter of her own life must begin. She has spent four years as her son's only support, desperately trying to understand the actions that landed him on death row and to change his fate. Now Amanda faces an even more difficult task--finding a way, and a reason, to move forward with her own life.

Before the tragedy that unfolded in a South Dakota mall, Robbie was just like other people's sons or daughters. Sometimes troubled, but sweet and full of goodness too. That's the little boy Amanda remembers as she packs up his childhood treasures and progress reports, and discovers a class ring she's never seen before. Who does it belong to and why did Robbie have it in his possession? So begins a journey that will remind her not only of who Robbie used to be, but of a time when she wasn't afraid--to talk to strangers, to help those in need, to reach out. Robbie's choices can never be unmade, but there may still be time for forgiveness and trust to grow again. For a future as wide as the sky.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Oh.  Wow.  I really, really wasn't expecting that.  Yeah, I don't really read blurbs for books of authors I am familiar with and trust.  I like the surprise of it all and wow, was this book a complete surprise for me.

This story is told from alternating points of view, every other chapter being Amanda, the mother.  Honestly, I was completely overwhelmed as a reader a few times and had to put the book down and take a breather.  It was hard for me to digest all of Amanda's feelings and emotions in such a small space of time.  Which is a good thing, right?  I was feeling so many emotions and as a mother, it was so intense for me.  There was so much to try to reason out in my mind as I grappled with Amanda's many thoughts.  Emotional, intense.  Those are the two words that keep coming back to me.

This definitely isn't a fluffy story.  It's not romance.  It's not light.  It deals with several real and difficult issues.  Mental heath, divorce, alcoholism, and of course, a mass shooting.  That is intense stuff.  I loved the added bits of "smart stuff" that had me thinking as well.  The timers at the start of every chapter were interesting and had me thinking until I finally figured out what it was about.  I like things like that.

I really am blown away with the amounts of intense feelings and emotion captured in this book.  It's hard to imagine the place the author had to go to to achieve this level of emotional depth and understanding.  She must have been completely wrung out every time she stopped writing.  I am grateful for the place this book led me to.  I have never really given much thought to the struggle of families of mass shooters left behind other than fleeting thoughts of how awful.  Which it is.  This book just leaves me with the reoccurring thoughts that the world needs more love.  More kindness.  More understanding.

Pick this book up.  Be prepared for a gripping, emotional journey.  This is like no other book that I have read.

Content:  mental illness, alcohol abuse, divorce, mass shooting, death, mild swearing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

About the author Jessica Pack:  Jessica Pack is a pseudonym for Josi Kilpack, author of twenty-six novels.  Find more here:

Jessica Pack on Facebook

Jessica Pack on Twitter

Jessica Pack on Goodreads

Miss Wilton's Waltz by Josi S. Kilpack

Lenora Wilton has spent her life hiding behind the keys of her beloved pianoforte and the vibrancy of her younger sister, Cassie. But Lenora is ready for a change and travels to Bath to live with her Aunt Gwen and teach music at an all-girls’ boarding school. She is different in Bath—more comfortable with herself—and enjoys the freedom and independence of her new life there.

When Lenora meets Aiden Asher, she finds herself attracted to him, but her unexpected feelings become more complicated when she learns that Catherine—Lenora’s newest and most troublesome student in the school—is Mr. Asher’s niece. Catherine is a difficult student, and Lenora works hard to make progress with the girl.

When the chemistry between Lenora and Aiden increases, they share a passionate kiss by the River Avon, and Lenora feels it is the beginning of a new forever—until she learns that Aiden has withheld an important detail about his life that changes everything.

Lenora closes her heart to him, and Aiden, caught between his obligation and his heart, must do what he can to make amends. And Lenora, after years of hiding from everyone and everything, faces a decision only she can make.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

Here is Lenora!  She played a vital role in The Vicar's Daughter as her intended fell in love with her sister.  Yeah, Lenora was jilted, embarrassed but not exactly heartbroken.  All the same, she moved to Bath to live with her aunt and start as a teacher in an all-girl's school.

I loved getting to know Lenora.  I loved watching Lenora get to know herself!  Josi Kilpack has a way of writing characters that are so interesting.  They unfold gently, layered and vulnerable.  It's so easy to like them, to root for them.  It's also easy to be frustrated with them!  I love when all my emotions get involved in a book.  Characters are what make or break a book for me so when I emotionally connect to the characters, I am a happy, happy girl!  

Although this book can stand alone easily, I would highly recommend reading The Vicar's Daughter first only because it will give you valuable insight and an emotional connection to Lenora.  It makes this book all the more satisfying.

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.  All opinions expressed are my own.

All That Makes Life Bright: The Life and Love of Harriet Beecher Stowe (Historical Proper Romance) by Josi S. Kilpack

When Harriet Beecher marries Calvin Stowe on January 6, 1836, she is sure her future will be filled romance, eventually a family, and continued opportunities to develop as a writer. Her husband Calvin is completely supportive and said she must be a literary woman. Harriet's sister, Catharine, worries she will lose her identity in marriage, but she is determined to preserve her independent spirit. Deeply religious, she strongly believes God has called her to fulfill the roles of wife and writer and will help her accomplish everything she was born to do.

Two months after her wedding Harriet discovers she is pregnant just as Calvin prepares to leave for a European business trip. Alone, Harriet is overwhelmed-being a wife has been harder than she thought and being an expectant mother feels like living another woman's life. Knowing that part of Calvin still cherishes the memory of his first wife, Harriet begins to question her place in her husband's heart and yearns for his return; his letters are no substitute for having him home. When Calvin returns, however, nothing seems to have turned out as planned.

Struggling to balance the demands of motherhood with her passion for writing and her desire to be a part of the social change in Ohio, Harriet works to build a life with her beloved Calvin despite differing temperaments and expectations.

Can their love endure, especially after "I do"? Can she recapture the first blush of new love and find the true beauty in her marriage?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

It's sometimes hard to imagine how life would have been if I had lived in the early 1800's when the country was changing so quickly and women were so repressed.  But then Josi Kilpack comes along and makes me feel like Harriet's life could have been my life or the life of any of us because of the common desires, thoughts and feelings that inherently makes us women.  

I did not know much about Harriet Beecher Stowe before reading this book other than her famous writing of Uncle Tom's Cabin.  I love how personable Harriet and Calvin became to me and how much of myself I could see in them.  Kilpack does an excellent job of bringing this bit of history to life and I loved her notes in the back for each chapter.  It points to research well done which can be felt in each page of this book.

There is nothing heart pounding or edge of your seat in this book.  It's simply a story about two people trying to work through the messy bits of life and relationships to find happiness and peace.  I felt the connection to the characters and the story.  I feel like I now have a better understanding of Harriet Beecher Stowe and I'm the better for it.

Content:  Some references to intimate relations between a husband and wife with no details.

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Vicar's Daughter by Josi Kilpack (A Proper Romance)

Cassie, the youngest of six daughters in the Wilton family, is bold, bright, and ready to enter society. There's only one problem: her older sister Lenora, whose extreme shyness prevents her from attending many social events. Lenora is now entering her third season, and since their father has decreed that only one Wilton girl can be out at a time, Cassie has no choice except to wait her turn.

Evan Glenside, a soft-spoken, East London clerk, has just been named his great-uncle's heir and, though he is eager to learn all that will be required of him, he struggles to feel accepted in a new town and in his new position.

A chance meeting between Evan and Lenora promises to change everything, but when Lenora proves too shy to pursue the relationship, Cassie begins to write Mr. Glenside letters in the name of her sister. Her good intentions lead to disaster when Cassie realizes she is falling in love with Evan. But then Evan begins to court Lenora, thinking she is the author of the letters.

As secrets are revealed, the hearts of Cassie, Evan, and Lenora are tested. Will the final letter sent by the vicar's daughter be able to reunite the sisters as well as unite Evan with his true love?

 * Goodreads * Amazon * Deseret Book *

Happiness is reading books by Josi Kilpack.  She has refined her craft and become such a fabulous writer.  This book felt more like a journey than a story.  Her characters, flawed yet so endearing, settled right into my mind and my heart.  

This story weaves several characters together- Cassie, Evan and Lenora.  Each play a vital role in the story.  Cassie has become impatient waiting for her older sister Lenora to make a match and decides to take matters into her own hands.  What starts as a little charade turns into a mess of epic proportions.  Cassie is left to pick up the pieces and set things back to right for not just her family but Evan and his family as well.  I loved Cassie's desire to make things right.  She owns up to her faults and tries desperately to make restitution.  You can't help but admire that.  I absolutely adored Evan.  He is a genuinely good person and that is portrayed all through this book.  Evan is a constant- and anchor of sorts for this book.  Loved him.

There is a gentle flow to this book.  It isn't fast paced or surprising but kept me engaged all the way through.  I was really pulling for Cassie, hoping that she would find her own happy in the end.  I wasn't disappointed.  The ending was worth the struggle to get there.

Content:  Clean

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

The Lady of the Lakes: The True Love Story of Sir Walter Scott (Historical Proper Romance #2) by Josi S. Kilpack

One is his first love.
The other is his best love.
Which will be Walter’s true love?

Walter Scott has three passions: Scotland, poetry, and Mina Stuart. Though she is young and they are from different stations in society, Walter is certain their love is meant to be. For years, he has courted her through love letters. She is the sunshine of his soul.

Though Mina shares Walter’s love of literature and romantic temperament, it’s hard for her to know if she truly loves him or if she has only been dazzled by his flattery. When she meets the handsome and charming William Forbes, her heart is challenged. Who will she choose?

But as every poet knows, “the course of true love never did run smooth,” and on a windy morning in the lake country, Walter meets Charlotte.

At twenty-six, Charlotte Carpenter believes she will never find love. After all, she is a Catholic-born Frenchwoman living in London with a family history shadowed by scandal. Though quiet, practical, and determined to live a life of independence, her heart longs for someone to love her and a place to call home.

Passion and promises collide as Walter, Mina, and Charlotte must each decide the course for their futures. What are they each willing to risk to find love and be loved in return?

 * Goodreads * Amazon * Deseret Book *

There is something wonderous about this book.  I was so completely enthralled with it and as I sit here thinking about the whole story, I find that outside of two very slow moving romances, there was not really a lot going on.  No danger, no big heart pounding moments of suspense and no heart wrenching scenes of tragedy and dying.  It's a simple tale of a man with a romantic heart, falling in love.  Josi Kilpack has done an amazing job of crafting a story, so simplistic in it's base form, into something I was completely enthralled by.  I really couldn't put it down.

I'll admit I don't know much about Walter Scott.  I've never studied the man or his works.  I know who he is in the most base form and that's it.  I really enjoyed learning more about how his works and writings came to be, and his journey as a man.

The characters in this book are fully developed and I felt like I knew them intimately.  I understood their struggles and felt the tugs of empathy and compassion toward them.  I love when that happens!

This was such an enjoyable book!  From start to finish.  I'm so glad I got to read it.  Josi Kilpack has really refined her craft in her last few books.  I enjoyed her earlier books, but these last few books are really her crowing jewels.  They are full of substance and so rich.  I can't wait to see what comes next!

Content:  Clean

Oh, and I LOVE this gorgeous cover!!

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  A favorable review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

https://www.facebook.com/events/367289370290370/

Learn fun behind-the-scenes facts about the book, chat with fabulous historical romance authors, hear what's coming up next in the Proper Romance Line, and win prizes throughout the party!

Timeline:

12:30- The Party Begins!
12:35- Q&A with author Julie Daines
1:05- Q&A with author Donna Hatch
1:35- Q&A with author Josi S. Kilpack
2:05- Q&A with author/editor Lisa Mangum
2:25- Q&A with Heidi Taylor, manager of the Proper Romance line

A Country Christmas (Timeless Regency Collection) by Josi S. Kilpack, Carla Kelly, Jennifer Moore

SAINTS AND SINNERS by Josi S. Kilpack. When Neville Franklin’s best friend Burke wants to wager who can kiss Eloise first, Neville puts a stop to it. Eloise has been his friend since childhood, and, well, she’s off-limits. Especially to Burke. As Burke pursues Eloise and claims that she has a tendre for him, Neville becomes more and more protective of the girl he grew up with. On the night of the Christmas ball when Eloise appears in a dress that clearly shows that she is no longer a girl, but a beautiful woman, Neville realizes that his protective feelings toward Eloise have turned into something greater. But now, Neville’s best friend stands in his way.

THE CHRISTMAS ANGLE by Carla Kelly. Sailing Master Able Six is on half-pay with the British navy, biding his time during the uneasy Peace of Amiens and the resumption of war. Meanwhile, he’s invited to teach young pupils at the home of a vicar outside of Plymouth. There, he unexpectedly meets Meridee, the spinster sister-in-law of the vicar. From the moment Able sees Meridee, he’s entranced. When she asks him about his past and discovers his remarkable yet troublesome gift, he realizes he’s finally found someone who can care for all of him. Sadly, Able’s low station and half-pay gives him no way to provide for a wife. Meridee’s lack of dowry and dependence on relatives makes their union impossible at best. But isn’t Christmas a season of hope?

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Jennifer Moore. Archie Clawson wants nothing more than to give Jane the perfect Christmas. Since her troubled childhood, she’s not experienced a Christmas with all the trimmings. To top off the perfection, he also plans to ask her to marry him on Christmas Eve. But as he and his friends, including Jane, travel to his country home, they are caught in a snowstorm and discover that notice of their arrival did not get through to the house staff. Worried over the disappointment he must be causing Jane and the complete shift in their planned Christmas, Archie fears that he’s misinterpreted her kindness towards him and lost her favor forever.

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

This book containing three novellas is perfect for the fast approaching Christmas season.  All three of these books are gentle in nature and bring a spirit of hope and love.  

My favorite was the first novella by Josi Kilpack.  It drew me in right away and made me smile.  Neville is a bit dense but he eventually comes around.  His bumbling was quite amusing to me.

Carla Kelly's book wasn't my favorite.  It lacked the emotional connection for me and felt very matter of fact and straight forward.  It didn't quite have that country Christmas feeling that the other two did.

Jennifer Moore's story brings all the feelings of a perfect, classic country Christmas to the front.  It took me a bit to get into the story and the characters but by the end, I loved it.  It reminded me that it really can be the simple things that make things special.  Especially if you are with the people you care about most.

Content:  The Christmas Angle had some mild swearing.  Otherwise the books are clean.

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  A favorable review was not required and all opinions expressed here are my own.

I Am Delilah by Josi S. Kilpack

Although Delilah works in New York, she’s a small-town girl and eager to finish her job as a nanny and return to Big Fork Montana where she’ll marry her high-school sweetheart. When she ends up the focus of a Hollywood stunt centered around her being the Oscar date of Hollywood heartthrob Sam Hendricks, life as she knows it becomes a thing of the past. Delilah promptly refuses him, only to find that it isn’t so easy to step out of the limelight once you’ve ended up in the middle of the public eye.

Sam Hendricks is not used to taking no for an answer, and when his rejection become a leading story, he determines to do whatever it takes to turn the tide of public opinion back in his favor. Again and again Delilah refuses him until she proposes an offer—if he’ll spend two weeks on her family’s dairy farm, she’ll be his date to the Oscars. In no way is this a fair trade, but Sam feels he has no choice and therefore agrees to her proposal—they both agree no one will ever know.

Unfortunately for them both, there are plans other than their own at play, and when everything goes wrong they are faced with another fallout, bigger than the first.

(I AM DELILAH was originally published as STAR STRUCK in 2004)

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I have vague recollections of reading this book way back when it was first released under a different title.  It's been a long time though so most of it felt pretty new to me.

If you are looking for a romance, this story may disappoint you.  It's less of a romance and more of, well, I'm not sure what I would label it as.  A story of a growing friendship and learning maybe.

Delilah and Sam are both flawed and have their mean moments.  Of course, those were not my favorite bits, but they both were learning and figuring things out.  Both Sam and Delilah have somewhat warped ideas of how the other lives and as they come to know each other better, those perceptions change and soften.  

This book was good but it wasn't my favorite.  It was clean though and I really appreciate that.  Josi Kilpack is a fantastic writer and I've loved so many of her books- especially her more recent ones.  

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

A Lady's Favor by Josi S. Kilpack

Lord Strapshire is the most-eligible bachelor in town, and he has set his sights on the lovely Bianca Davidson. It’s too bad that Bianca finds him to be an insufferable boor. In order to deflect his attention, Bianca plans to ask Mathew Hensley to pretend to court her. The problem is, Bianca hasn’t spoken to Mr. Hensley since they were both involved in a particularly embarrassing incident years before. But he owes her a favor, and Mr. Hensley might be Bianca’s only hope.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

The saying, "pretty is as pretty does" fits this book perfectly.  Well, maybe it should be "handsome is as handsome does" because it's all about a man.  On the outside Lord Strapshire looks perfect.  He is all the rage in society but once Bianca spends a small amount of time with him, she realizes that he is anything but a gentleman.  Too bad the boor has his sights set on Bianca.  Bianca is desperate to escape his clutches and looks to Mathew for help.  They hatch a plan that leads to a little bit of a mess and a fantastic kiss.

This story is a novella but I loved the easy flow and progression.  It didn't feel hurried and I was left so satisfied in the end.  It was the perfect little diversion.  If you love regency romance, don't miss this one.   Josi Kilpack is a fantastic author that has proven herself through many genres.

Content:  Clean

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

Forever and Forever: The Courtship of Henry Longfellow and Fanny Appleton

The first book in a new series which will focus on the lives of real historical figures who have intriguing stories of courtship that are recreated in fictionalized accounts based on real biographical and social history research.

"A well-researched, emotionally charged tale. A love story...fit for the ages." -Publishers Weekly.

It's 1836, and nineteen-year-old Fanny Appleton, a privileged daughter of a wealthy, upper-class Boston industrialist, is touring Europe with her family. Like many girls of her day, she enjoys the fine clothes, food, and company of the elite social circles. But unlike her peers, Fanny is also drawn to education, literature, and more intellectual pursuits.

Published author and poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is also touring Europe, but under much different circumstances. Widowed while on tour, he has stayed in order to gather credentials that he hopes will secure his professorship at Harvard College. When Henry meets Fanny, he sees in her a kindred spirit, a lover of language and literature and high ideals. He is in love. Fanny, however, is uncertain. He is ten years older than she is, and from a much lower social class. How could such a relationship ever thrive?

Could a book of Henry’s poetry, personally delivered, persuade Fanny to believe in a love that lasts forever and forever?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I love when I pick up a historical fiction book and I can just feel how much research the author did in preparation for writing.  This story felt so real and true to the time period and people it portrayed.

One of my favorite things about historical fiction is getting to know more about people and events from history in a way that isn't so cut and dry as a historical account.  The author is allowed to take some liberties resulting in a more emotional connection.  

This story is gentle and covers quite an expanse of time.  It flows slowly but richly.  The characters are full of intelligence and passion.  Henry has such a devoted and loyal heart.  His passions run deep and true.  I really loved how he came to life for me.  He wrote such beautiful poems.

If you love historical fiction, you should really check this one out.  It won't make your heart race or your stomach clench, but it will bring real emotion in the most gentle of ways.

Autumn Masquerade (Timeless Regency Collection) by Josi Kilpack, Donna Hatch and Nancy Campbell Allen

Timeless Regency Collection: Three Brand New Novellas from Bestselling Regency Romance Authors...

A MERRY DANCE by Josi S. Kilpack. When Lila overhears her uncle talking about a man coming to look for property in the county, she doesn’t think twice, until her uncle says he hopes Lila will find enough interest to marry the man. How can she marry someone named Mortimer Luthford, not to mention that his advanced age of thirty-three, and especially since she’s already in love with her absent cousin Neville? But when Mortimer arrives, Lila has to try every trick known to women to act not interested in the rather fascinating man, which proves a very difficult façade to maintain.

UNMASKING THE DUKE by Donna Hatch. The last thing Hannah Palmer wants to do is flirt with men in a crowded ballroom, but when her sister throws a Masquerade Ball, Hannah can’t say no to the invitation and takes comfort behind a mask. She dances with a charming masked man, matching him wit for wit. When the glorious evening culminates in a kiss, and the two remove their masks, Hannah is horrified to discover the man she’s been flirting with all night is her most despised neighbor, the Duke of Suttenberg. No matter how charming the duke was at the ball, and how wonderful the kiss, he is the last man she’d ever accept.

WHAT’S IN A NAME by Nancy Campbell Allen. Penelope Timely has a terrible secret. She’s been writing letters to the Duke of Wilmington, pretending to be her ever-proper twin sister, Persephone. Now, the duke has written that he’ll be coming for the Autumn Masquerade Ball and Festival. Penelope will have to continue the charade while the duke is in town in order to protect her sister. The Duke of Wilmington isn’t fooled for a moment, but instead of confessing that he knows about the deception, he finds himself utterly charmed by Penelope and jumps into the game of deception to see how far the twin sisters will take it.

 * Goodreads *Amazon *

I am so happy I got to read this book.  These three regency romance novellas were simply perfect and they made me smile.  I loved how each one revolved in some way around a Masquerade Ball because it was like a small thread of continuity that linked them all together.

I couldn't pick a favorite of the three if I tried.  I loved each one of these stories.  The regency setting was so fun, the characters were clear and developed.  Each one was light and charming.  This is one of my favorite collections, I think.  Love!

Content:  Clean! (no swearing or sexual content)

Lord Fenton's Folly by Josi S. Kilpack + $25 Giveaway

Lord Fenton is a gambler, a dandy, and a flirt-and he must marry or else he will be disinherited, stripped of his wealth and his position. He chooses Alice Stanbridge for two simple reasons: he once knew her as a young girl, and she is the least objectionable option available to him. However, Alice has harbored feelings for Fenton since their first meeting ten years ago, and she believes his proposal is real. When she discovers it is not, she is embarrassed and hurt. However, a match with the most-eligible bachelor in London would secure not only her future but that of her family as well. Determined to protect herself from making a fool of herself a second time, Alice matches Lord Fenton wit for wit and insult for insult as they move toward a marriage of convenience that is anything but a happy union. Only when faced with family secrets that have shaped Fenton's life does he let down his guard enough to find room in his heart for Alice.

Amazon * Deseret Book

This book really brought together so many of the things I love about reading.  

I love regency romances done well, and this one is done well.  The setting, the attitudes of the time, the clothing- everything was done so well and tastefully.

The characters were so clear and had a depth that made them human and real to me.  I loved the progression of the book- the characters learn and show growth- especially Lord Fenton.  Even though I was frustrated with Lord Fenton, I couldn't help but love him and want the best for him.  The road to change and love isn't usually easy or pretty.  Lord Fenton had a lot of not so pretty moments.  But then, so did Alice.  Hurt can bring out the worst in people.  Love can bring out the best.  I was glad we got to see both ends of that spectrum.  It was so satisfying.  

I read through this one so quickly and was sad to see it come to an end.  I love this new genre for Josi Kilpack.  It feels really good.  :)

Excerpt:

Fenton groaned and put his saucer back on the tray, making an instantaneous decision that eased his mind quite a lot. To look at every woman he met as a potential wife was irritating, and after only two weeks he was quite tired of it. Perhaps the solution was to orchestrate a match that would not lay all aspects of matrimony at his feet all at once. Perhaps treating it as a business arrangement would help it to be exactly that, thereby freeing him from all the discomfiting realities he was not yet prepared to face. "I leave for Fentonview on Tuesday and shan't be back for a week. Courting is such a boring prospect, and you yourself said that to become infatuated with anyone might become a complication." He paused, considered one last time what he was going to say next, and decided he felt as good about it as could be expected. "You like Alice Stanbridge and feel she would make a good wife for me?" Lady Chariton looked confused and perhaps a bit concerned. "I do, but-" "Then that is good enough for me," Fenton said, rising to his feet and smiling broadly at his mother, who stared back at him in surprise. "I do find her appealing and what's more she is not a silly little thing without a practical thought in her head." His mother's eyes widened and her eyebrows rose upon her forehead. Fenton struck a pose of consternation, with his thumb and forefinger on his chin as he looked toward the window a moment, then nodded crisply and turned back to his mother who still looked shocked by his pronouncement. "Yes, I think that Alice Stanbridge is exactly what I should like in a wife, and so I shall see to it before I leave for Hampshire-I see no reason to wait until Michaelmas and might as well get it over with." He leaned in and kissed his mother's hand. "Thank you for your help, Mama. I shall let you know how she responds to my proposal."

 

Josi S. Kilpack hated to read until her mother handed her a copy of The Witch of Blackbird Pond when she was 13. From that day forward, she read everything she could get her hands on and credits her writing “education” to the many novels she has “studied” since then. She began writing her first novel in 1998 and never stopped. Sheep's Clothing won the Whitney award for Mystery/Suspense in 207 and Wedding Cake, book twelve in the Sadie Hoffmiller Culinary Mystery series won in 2014. Josi was also the Best of State winner in Fiction for 2012. Josi currently lives in Willard, Utah, with her husband, children and super-cute - but not very friendly - cat.

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   $25 Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon eGift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 10/29/15 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com eGift Card 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

   

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A Heart Revealed by Josi S. Kilpack

Amber Marie Sterlington, the Rage of the Season in Regency-era London, has her pick of men, and she knows what she wants most in a husband: a title and a fortune. Why would she ever marry for something as fickle as love? And why would she ever look twice at Thomas Richards, a third son of a country lord?

But when Amber’s social standing is threatened, the character of her future husband becomes far more important than his position. After a public humiliation, she finds herself exiled to Yorkshire. Alone except for her maid, Amber is faced with a future she never expected in a circumstance far below what she has known all her life. Humbled and lonely, Amber begins to wonder if isolation is for the best. Who could ever love her now?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I love the “Proper Romance” series by Shadow Mountain publisher.  These books are fall exactly in my sweet spot for reading.  I know exactly what I’m going to get when I pick one of these books up. 

This book was a bit of romance, but mostly it was a journey of self- discovery for Miss Amber Sterlington.  At the height of her season in London, Amber encounters a most distressing and devastating turn of events.  Everything she has known changes.  She cast away, discarded, humiliated and scared.  I knew from the beginning that I would be taking an emotional journey with Amber.  Right from the start Amber is a character that I did not love.  I didn’t even like her.  She is selfish, catty and uncaring.  But, since she is the main character of the book, I figured by the end I would have no choice but to like her so I knew the author had quite the journey in store for Amber and me too.

Thank goodness that Amber has one person in her life that doesn’t give up on her even when she probably deserved to be left completely alone.  That one steady influence (that stood her ground) forced Amber to make changes and look at things differently.  Amber begins to see the value of work and honesty and real friendship. 

The romance is slow coming but sweet and perfect for this story.  I really loved it.  The best part for me was the emotional journey.  The place I started in the book was completely different from where I ended and that was the best part for me.  I think it was the best part for Amber too.  

Love this book.  Love this “Proper Romance” brand.  Love to see Josi Kilpack writing a regency romance!  (so different from her culinary mysteries!)  There’s a lot of love going on here.

Wedding Cake: A Culinary Mystery by Josi S. Kilpack- Review, Excerpt and $25 Giveaway

After years of mysteries, murder, and mayhem, the big day has arrived, and Sadie wants nothing more than for her wedding to Pete to be completely uneventful. When she receives a threatening, anonymous text message just days before the ceremony, she's determined not to let it interfere with the celebration she has carefully planned for months. But as the threat escalates from a distant fear to a frightening reality, Sadie realizes just how much she's underestimated the situation. Desperate to put an end to the games, lies, and manipulation that has shadowed her life, Sadie, her fiance, Pete, and her children pull out all the stops. What they don't know, however, is just how far Sadie's nemesis is willing to go to make good on the thread she made to Sadie three years ago. Will the wedding go off without a hitch, or will "'til death do us part" come far too soon? There's no turning back for anyone in the riveting conclusion to this twelve-volume culinary mystery series.

Amazon * Deseret Book * Barnes & Noble

The Culinary Mystery Series

Is it really true?  We've reached the end of the Sadie Hoffmiller culinary mystery series?  How bitter sweet this feels.  It's been a long road to reach the end, the final book, the wedding cake.  So, it's good to have that final bit of resolution but it will be sad to leave Sadie, Pete and family behind.  They are very familiar to me now.

I'll admit that I was anxious to read this book.  Knowing it was the last book left me anticipating the whole time I was reading.  I knew I would have to wait to the very end to find that HEA ending I was looking for.  Nothing is every easy for the characters in these books.  Never, ever easy.  

This book was fast paced and jam packed with activity.  There was literally not even one dull moment.  I loved how the whole clan was together in this book, all part of what was going on.  It was a good way to end things.  Things don't turn out exactly the way Sadie hopes they will or even the way I thought they would, but I guess that's all part of the fun.

This has been a great series.  Not only are the stories great, but there are some fun and yummy recipes in each book.  These books are clean- no swearing, no sexual situations.  It's just good reading!  Enjoy the following excerpt!

Everyone was silent for a moment, then Malloy pulled himself up a bit straighter in his chair. “This is an investigation that is all about keeping your mother safe. To return home when we have expressly asked that she stay out of the way and allow us to do our job compromises her safety and—”

            “Look,” Shawn said with a forced kind of calmness, zeroing his attention on Malloy. “We both appreciate what you’re doing but I think you’re forgetting that my mom isn’t some Sunday school teacher who doesn’t understand what’s what. In the last four years my mother has put over a dozen people in jail, found missing persons, discovered frauds, uncovered conspiracies, solved several murders, saved lives, and managed to break a few noses in the process. To not consider any of those things is . . . dumb, and with this threat being directly targeting her, I think she has the right to be heard in regard to how she would like to handle things. That she’s talking to you about this at all is merely because, at her core, my mother is a well-mannered woman. She doesn’t need your help—heck, she’s not even asking for your help—she’s simply asking that you support her instincts which have proven to be right time and time again.”

            Sadie blinked back tears of pride and gratitude as the room reverberated in the silence left behind her son’s words. She had no idea he felt this way about the things she’d done these last years, especially since it was only six weeks ago that her skills were put to use poking around in his business, which he hadn’t liked very much. That he was proud of her and saw her as strong and capable was an enormous boost of confidence.

            When no one spoke in the moments following Shawn’s monologue, he turned to her. “Are you coming with me, then?”

 

Josi S. Kilpack hated to read until her mother handed her a copy of The Witch of Blackbird Pond when she was 13. From that day forward, she read everything she could get her hands on and accredits her writing “education” to the many novels she has “studied” since then. She began writing her first novel in 1998 and never stopped. Her novel, Sheep’s Clothing won the Whitney Award 2007 for Mystery/Suspense. Lemon Tart, the first book in the Sadie Hoffmiller Culinary Mystery series was a finalist in 2009. Josi currently lives in Willard Utah with her husband, children and super-cute cat.

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  Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 2/10/15 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

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