Love, Jane by Ranee S. Clark + $25 and Book Giveaway!

Jane Reeves and Sean O'Callaghan seem to be a match made in heaven—but the timing is all wrong. Jane has her heart set on serving a mission, and she can't delay telling Sean the news any longer: not only has she quietly submitted her mission papers, but she's also leaving in a month ... for Alaska. Shocked and devastated, Sean struggles to come to terms with Jane's decision. Unable to deny the depth of their feelings for one another, Sean makes a promise to wait for her.

Life unfolds for both Jane and Sean, with communications limited to weekly e-mails. But with just a few months left in Jane's mission, Sean's messages stop. When she receives the dreaded "Dear Jane" breakup along with the news that she has been replaced by Sean's former flame, Jane knows the future she envisioned now belongs to another woman. But upon her return home, Jane quickly realizes some things are worth fighting for—perhaps, most of all, a shot at true love.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

This book is written for and geared towards the LDS audience. ( Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints)  The characters are LDS and a good part of this story focuses on Jane serving a mission for her church.  Praying and faith are a big part of this book.

I've read previous books by this author and really enjoyed them.  Ranee Clark is a fun writer.  This book wasn't my favorite of hers and I'm not completely sure why.  I think I didn't really love Jane but I did admire some of the growth she made by the end of the book.  The first part of this book is about the beginnings of a relationship for Jane and Sean.  The second part is while Jane is on her mission and Sean is dealing with life back home.  The third section is Jane returning home.  I guess for me, this book felt more disconnected because even in the first part of the book, Jane and Sean have a rocky start.  Jane is hiding things, she comes off wishy washy, lacking a backbone and she doesn't treat Sean all that great.  The second section is the two apart.  Jane is still struggling with all the same things, just in a new setting and Sean is drifting.  Both have things going on in their own worlds that cause frustration.  I think I just didn't connect to the characters the way I wanted to.  I didn't love them.  I felt like I was on the outside looking in.

Even saying that, I did like the book, I just didn't love it.  Like I said before, Ranee Clark is a fun writer and I always look forward to her books.  I will keep coming back because I know what to expect from her and I like it.

Ooh, and I love the cute cover on this book!

Content:  religious situations and talk, some kissing

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

Tour Schedule: 

*March 13th: http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, http://rockinbookreviews.com/, http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, http://fireandicereads.com/ 

*March 14th: http://empowermoms.net/, http://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/

*March 15th: http://www.wishfulendings.com/, http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/

*March 16th: http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://thethingsilovemost.com/

*March 17th: http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/, http://melsshelves.blogspot.com/ 

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Returned (Forbidden #3) by Kimberley Griffiths Little

After tragedy strikes on the day they were to wed, Jayden must support Kadesh as he ascends the throne and becomes king of Sariba. But with the dark priestess Aliyah conspiring to control the crown, and the arrival of Horeb, Jayden’s former betrothed, Kadesh’s kingdom, as well as his status as king, is at stake.

Jayden knows that the time to be merciful has come and gone, and that some enemies can only be halted by death. Now she and Kadesh must prepare to fight not only for their love, but also for their kingdom.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

This is a series I have loved from the very beginning.  I have been waiting for this final third book to finally make it to my hands.  The last book left off in such a crazy place that left me feeling a bit desperate.  I don't like that feeling but finally the wait is over and the last book is HERE!  Yay!  This book picks up exactly where the last book left off.  It's like I never left (Well, except for the months of waiting in between.  There was that.).  If you haven't started this series, how lucky you are that you can read one right after another with no waiting at all!  This book is meant to be read last.  You will not understand what is happening if you do not read these books in order.

This series is really jam packed from beginning to end.  There is constant movement, danger and activity happening.  It's intense and somewhat consuming.  I am always drawn in and kept captive while reading these books.  This book whole book basically revolved around war.  I felt like this story was more plot driven and less character driven because I guess we had two books to get to know the characters and now the plot is in full force for a climactic ending.

I was so glad to get to the end.  Resolution always feels so good after a series like this.  It was a hard fought ending and not everything turns out rosy (boo) but still, it's nice to be at the end of a good series.  Sigh.

Content:  war and violence (some graphic in nature), black magic and human sacrifice

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

The Dating Experiment by Elodia Strain

After losing her job, her house, and her guy, the last thing Gabby wants to do is be in a dating experiment—especially with her ex. Her only chance of making it through is with help from her best friend, Ian. But as the study and all its hilariously awkward dates goes on, Gabby finds herself wondering what exactly this experiment is all about.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

This was such a fun book!  It's light-hearted and definitely made me smile.  It's a true romantic comedy.

Gabby is quite the character.  She is full of quirks as are the people around her.  Gabby is a bit down on her luck and well, out of money.  When she learns about this dating experiment she finally decides to give it a whirl because it pays and she needs the money.  I liked Gabby and I liked that she didn't try to change herself to suit other people.

I loved the GLA idea in this book.  (Good Little Anything's)  It's about doing small acts of kindness to lift and help other people and recognizing when others do it too.  This should be a world wide "thing".  Because seriously?  This world could use more kindness every day.

The road to true love is never easy and this book proves that but watching Gabby navigate her way through a series of very awkward and funny dates proved to be the perfect distraction for me.  I had a lot of fun reading this book and I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good, clean romantic comedy.  This book will make you happy.

Content:  clean

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

My Heart Belongs in Fort Bliss, Texas: Priscilla’s Reveille (My Heart Belongs) by Erica Vetsch

Fashion artist Priscilla Hutchens has a grudge against the army that has ruined her family and taken the people she holds most dear. When her twin niece and nephew are left orphaned at Fort Bliss, Texas, she swoops down on Fort Bliss to gain custody of them immediately.

There is just one thing standing in the way—Post surgeon Major Elliot Ryder, who is also the twins uncle, also claims the children and thinks he knows what is best for them.

Priscilla and Elliot will cross swords, but each will have to lay down arms if they are to find a lasting peace on which to form the family both are longing for. Who will win the battle? Or will a truce be called for the sake of love and family?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I really enjoyed this gentle romance set in the heart of Texas during a very volatile time with the surrounding Indians.  The author did a great job of painting a clear picture of the setting and the people for my mind.

Priscilla and Elliot are at odds.  Both are determined to have custody of their young niece and nephew.  Priscilla wants to take them away from the awful Fort they have been living at and Elliot is determined to keep the kids right where they are because it's all they have ever known.  Fortunately, both Priscilla and Elliot are good people trying to do good things so things never get mean or nasty- but there are definitely some tense moments with their tenuous relationship.

I really enjoyed the setting and how the author was able to weave so many characters and situations into the story to make me feel like I was sitting right there, watching it all play out.  It reminded me of a Hallmark movie- especially with the children playing such a large role in the book.  It's a slow and gentle romance and I thought it was great!

I didn't realize when I started reading that this book is part of a series being released- each book by a different author so I'm going to have to keep my eyes on that!  :)

Content:  Clean, some minor peril, Christian elements although nothing preachy

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

A Fine Gentleman (The Jonquil Brothers #4) by Sarah M. Eden + $25 and Book Giveaway!

London barrister Jason Jonquil has spent his entire life working to establish his identity as a gentleman, a man of refinement like his father and brothers. But when fiery Spanish beauty Mariposa Thornton walks into his office, he finds himself losing his grasp on his dignified character. The woman is infuriating, pushing him to the limit of his legendary patience. However, her case seems simple enough—a small matter of inheritance. Or so he believes.

Once a well-born lady, Mariposa fought to survive the brutalities of Napoleon’s war on Spain. She braved horrific perils and undertook dangerous missions on behalf of those fighting against the invading French army. But her greatest battle still lies ahead: after being separated from her family, Mariposa sets in motion a plan to reunite with her loved ones in England. To avoid drawing the attention of the French, Mariposa dons a carefully crafted persona to conceal her true purpose. As Jason and Mariposa are drawn together by the case, they come to know the people beneath the masks they both wear.

When the truth of Mariposa’s quest is revealed, the couple is pulled into a mystery that will test the limits of their courage—and expose the true desire of their hearts.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

I love, love, love Sarah Eden's books and I love, love, love this Jonquil brothers series.  Well, honestly, I love everything Sarah Eden writes.  She has a masterful gift for creating characters and scenes that play out like movies in my head.  Her characters are always so well defined with flaws and those tiny characteristics that make them unique and identifiable.  

I think I loved Mariposa from the very beginning.  What a sharp mind she has!  It's rather enviable how she worked conversations and situations to her benefit.  It made me laugh.  So, so clever.  But then that mask slipped and she became a courageous but broken young woman, trying so desperately to find her family and stay safe in the process.

Jason is really an uptight guy.  It was fun to watch him be worked over by Mariposa and her personality.  As he loosens up and his thinking shifts a bit, he becomes more and more adorable.  I love the fine gentleman in him.  Honorable, upstanding.  Here is a quote I loved because it pretty much sums up all the Jonquil brothers, including Jason.

". . . One trait you all share with him is a tendency to hide the person you truly are.  You all keep yourselves tucked safely behind various masks and walls, whether it be isolation or playing the fool or"- she eyed him more pointedly- "clinging to the appearance of impeccable respectability.  Being your full self is a better thing, my dear.  Give your brother a chance to be his full self before deciding who he is.  You might both be surprised by what you discover."

I was quickly caught up in this book.  I loved the story and the characters.  You really just cannot go wrong with books by Sarah Eden.

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.

*March 6th: http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/, http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, https://joyinthemoments.wordpress.com/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/

*March 7th: http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/, http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/, https://atransparentmom.com/, http://www.iamareader.com/, http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/

*March 8th: http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/, http://rachellewrites.blogspot.com/, http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/, http://www.rockinbookreviews.com/

March 9th: http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://empowermoms.net/, http://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/ v

March 10th: http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/, http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/, http://brooklynberrydesigns.com/, http://sweetlymadejustforyou.com/, http://www.kindleandme.com/, http://thethingsilovemost.com/, http://fireandicereads.com

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$25 Giveaway for Keeping Kinley by Annette K. Larsen

 

He's noble. She's common. It's complicated. Kinley is content with her common life until a chance meeting with an old friend—a noble—brings the possibility of love. Though Rylan pursues her with a charming carelessness, she doesn’t dare hope that their relationship will be accepted. When Kinley’s livelihood is threatened, she is thrust into his world as a servant, but the Rylan she encounters there isn’t the quirky friend she thought she knew. Can she trust him, or will she be forced to accept that her dreams are only that—dreams?

   

  Excerpt:

 My breath caught as soon as he said the name and my eyes searched his features, looking for the little boy I had known in the man that stood before me. “Rylan?” I breathed and he nodded, still with that familiar grin in place. “Oh…my,” was all my idiot brain could say as I took in his fine horse and his fine clothes and his fine eyes. I probably still had pear juice on my face. “How are you, Miss Kinley?” he asked with the same light in his eyes that he used to have whenever he would tell me about his favorite part of a lesson. “I am…well,” I answered in a breathless sort of stuttering. “Very well, thank you. I hope all is well with you and your family. How are Lord and Lady Baylor?” “My father runs his business affairs with an iron fist and my mother coddles the staff, so everything is as it should be.” He grinned. “Good.” I had to ignore the grin so that I could speak. “And Master Welsley and Tayana?” “Welsley takes life too seriously, but is ready to take over for father at a moment’s notice. Tayana is soon to be married.” “Good, good. That’s very good.” It was so very awkward to be standing in front of this man who had befriended me as a child. How was I supposed to act? “And what of your family?” he asked eagerly. “It was your brother, was it not? That married…” “Princess Ariella, yes.” No one seemed to be able to say it out loud, worried that if they were wrong, I’d somehow be offended. I was used to finishing the thought. He gave a crooked smile. “That must have been an interesting adjustment.” I laughed, surprised at how succinct that description was. “It was a surprise and an adventure, and I really do adore her.” “I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting her, but everyone seems to have an opinion one way or the other.” “I can only imagine.” While most of the common folk had accepted Ella and Gavin, I knew that the nobility had not been so easily convinced when she’d stooped to marry a commoner. He smiled, so casual, so comfortable. I felt the need to fill the silence. His horse bobbed its head, trying to get Rylan’s attention. I pointed to him. “And who is this?” He reached up, stroking the horse behind its ear. “This is Apollo. Say ‘Good day,’ old man.” The horse actually nodded its head up and down. I was reminded of Herman, who I had abandoned. “I should go.” I gestured awkwardly down the lane. “It was a pleasure seeing you.” “Wait, can I see you tomorrow?” My confusion made the corner of my mouth quirk up. “Why would you do that?” “Because I’d like to speak with you again,” he said as if it was the most normal thing in the world. “Oh, um.” He was nobility, and I was decidedly not. “I have to get Herman. My pony, he’s—” I pointed behind me as if that would explain my inability to speak coherently, then turned to walk back the way I had come.

   

  

Author Annette K. Larsen I was born in Utah, but migrated to Arizona, Missouri, and Virginia before settling in Idaho. Though I dabbled in writing throughout school, being an author seemed like an unattainable dream. It took me seven years to write my first book, Just Ella. During that time, I taught myself how to write a novel. Not the most time effective method, but it gave me an education I wouldn’t have received from a class or a how-to book. Something about the struggle of writing without a formula or rules worked for me. I write clean romance because I love it. Jane Eyre is the hero of my youth and taught me that clinging to your convictions will be hard, but will bring you more genuine happiness than giving in ever can. I love chocolate, Into the Woods, ocean waves, my husband, and my five littles. And I love books that leave me with a sigh of contentment.

Website * Facebook

Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
 Ends 3/9/17
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

Sophia's Leap-Year Courtship (Timeless Romance Single) by Kristin Holt + Giveaway!

Union Pacific Station Agent Chadwick Hughes has everything in a state of readiness to welcome his mail order bride…everything but the bride. The woman he’s corresponded with for a year didn’t change her mind or miss her train in Omaha—she never existed. Chadwick’s mortified to discover he’s been swindled by a fraudulent matrimonial agency in Chicago. He needs a lawyer if he’ll ever recover a dime of the fortune he spent on worthless membership fees and the nonexistent bride’s transportation west.

Sophia Sorensen, Attorney at Law, is a spinster on the edge of propriety. The good people of Wyoming Territory are open to a lot of things, including Lady’s Privilege during Leap Years, but some aren’t fond of her day-to-day behavior. Why, the woman rides her bicycle hither and yon, showing her petticoat ruffle and ankles. She might be the least ladylike specimen beneath Wyoming skies, but it’s entertaining to watch her court the U.P. Station Agent, Chadwick Hughes, the most-eligible bachelor in the county.

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

The time period for this book is always one of interest to me.  Women were starting to push out of the bubble society (and men) created for them.  It was an awesome time but a frustrating time as well.  Sophia is the best kind of example of this movement.  She wants to own her own business, practice law and spread her wings.  The small town in Wyoming is pushing her back down.  Sophia is unconventional.  Bold.  But what they don't see is that Sophia is also struggling.  She wants acceptance and love.  And she wants Chadwick Hughes.  So, she is going to court him.

This was a fun story and I couldn't help but admire Sophia's courage and pluck.  Even when she is down, she only wallows a minute and then she's back up again.  Thank goodness for women like Sophia in our real world who pushed the boundaries and changed life for women for the better.

I enjoyed this book and it's characters!

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

Tour Schedule

Feb. 27 Heidi Reads / Bookworm Lisa / Donna Fasano

Feb. 28 Singing Librarian Books / Peggy Urry / Shanna Hatfield

March 1 Wishful Endings / LDS Writer Mom / Getting Your Read On

March 2 My Book a Day / Milou Koenings / Mel’s Shelves / Literary Time Out / Margaret Daley

March 3 Katie’s Clean Book Collection / Smiling Book Reviews / Magdalena Scott /

Melanie Sniter / Bubble Bath Books

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