Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Madeleine’s Mistletoe Meet Cute by Ellie Hall

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Madeleine’s Mistletoe Meet Cute by Ellie Hall. It's a great book if you're looking for a quick and fun Christmas read. 

About the Book

I’m a ghostbaker—covertly making Christmas cookies for the dough-challenged—and a virtual assistant on the side. When an impossibly attractive guy in flannel kisses me under the mistletoe, sparks fly, then fizzle. He’s my boss.

Maddie
You know the saying, “Things are coming up roses”? More like they’re last year’s wilted and withered poinsettias. To cap off a series of unfortunate events, I accidentally sent my boss another client’s content. He didn't find the first kiss quote social media graphic amusing. Despite never meeting face-to-face, I doubt anything could make the grumbler smile.

However, when I get a cookie baking contract in a charming small town, I can’t help but think this is my big chance to pay off Gran’s medical bills. Then I realize I’m competing with the enemy: Stone’s Coal Co., my boss’s business.

Duffy
My mother fancies herself Mrs. Claus. She and her merry band of matchmaking elves are determined to find me “The One.” Home for the holidays, the “Not-The-One” who single-handedly ruined me for romance, is at the company holiday party. Acting rashly, I kiss a cute woman under the mistletoe. When our lips touch, it’s nothing short of a Christmas miracle. But it turns out she’s my virtual assistant.

Instead of stomping on the brakes, we go on a fake dating spree, resulting in entering the Annual Christmas Charity Bake & Bazaar Auction. I tell myself after the oven timer dings, it’ll be over. But I’m tangled in tinsel as secrets and lies pile up.

Even if we leave Santa cookies, I have a feeling if we keep up the charade, we’ll end up with coal in our stockings. But can we somehow make it work and land on the “Good List?”

This is a clean, sweet, closed door, small town, Christmas romantic comedy featuring a grumpy boss, mistaken identity, a fake relationship, a chorkie named Pop Tart, and lots of holiday merriment.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

How to break your life in three easy steps:

1. Fall in love with your best friend and find out it’s unrequited.
2. After leaving a store, get into the wrong car and nearly be arrested.
3. Accidentally send your boss another client’s content…that involves kissing.

Friday 56

The baking timer buzzes, and I startle, realizing it’s been going off like an alarm. I could use my lucky apron right now…or my sisters. But there’s no time to stop if I’m going to stay on schedule and have time to help Duffy.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: When Stars Light the Sky by Elizabeth Camden

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring When Stars Light the Sky by Elizabeth Camden releasing January 21.

About the Book

In a world on the brink of war, two hearts must navigate shadows of uncertainty.

Inga Klein's carefree life in New York takes a dramatic turn when she sails for Berlin, Germany, to serve as the secretary for America's ambassador. Amid the glamour of life at the embassy, she continually finds herself at odds with the straitlaced and imposing Benedict Kincaid, the diplomatic chief of staff who harbors deep misgivings toward the German-born Inga.

As Europe hurtles toward World War I, Benedict's determination to keep America out of the conflict adds to the already tense atmosphere. Despite their relentless sparring, Inga and Benedict succeed in keeping the embassy afloat through one crisis after another. But when they run out of diplomatic options, a marriage of convenience may be Inga's only hope of escape from the impending war.

For fans of the enemies-to-lovers, marriage of convenience, and workplace romance tropes, When Stars Light the Sky is a clean Gilded Age romance that will sweep you off your feet.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Giver of Wonders by Roseanna M. White

About the Book

A miracle once saved her life ~ will another give her a future?

Cyprus was little more than a child when a fall left her paralyzed...and when the boy known as the wonder-worker healed her. Ever since, she has wondered why the Lord spared her, what he has in store for her. But her pagan father thinks she was spared solely so she could be introduced to the wealthy wonder-worker, Nikolaos.

Nikolaos has never questioned that his call in life is to dedicate himself to the church and to God. Never, that is, until he and his cousin Petros meet the compelling Cyprus Visibullis. For years he struggles with the feelings she inspires...and with the sure knowledge that Petros loves her too.

Petros knows he will never be good enough for Cyprus's father to consider him as a match for his favorite daughter not as long as Nikolaos is there. But when tragedy strikes the Visibullis family, he will do anything to save his beloved. Unfortunately, his beloved is determined to do anything to save her sisters ~ even at the cost of herself.

As the festival of lights bathes their Greek city in beauty, Cyprus, Petros, and Nikolaos celebrate the miracle of their Savior s birth together one last time. And in remembrance of their Lord's greatest gift, one of them will make the ultimate sacrifice for the others...and a centuries-long tradition will be born.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

What a beautiful story! I loved how fully God was woven into every page. It was inspiring and hope-filled. The characters faced troubles. Many, in fact. There was a lot of strife, but they trusted in the Lord, and I loved seeing that!

I really liked the characters, and I loved seeing their passion for the Lord. Cyprus was misunderstood by her neighbors and was striving to be good enough for the miracle that healed her—trying to find her purpose. Her relationship with her sisters was so sweet to see. The way they loved each other and sacrificed for each other was so inspiring. Petros was so kind and selfless. And Nikolaus was such an inspiration. It was amazing to see the kind of faith he had.

This story really brought a whole new perspective to Santa Claus. It made me see the tradition in a whole new light, which I greatly appreciated. I’ve been disheartened by the commercialism of the holiday, so it was wonderful to read about the origin of Santa Claus and to see how God-honoring it was in the beginning.

This story broke my heart at times, but it also pieced it back together. This was a beautiful love story. Not just the romantic kind, but also the love God has for His children. I loved it so much and highly, highly recommend it!

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Giver of Wonders by Roseanna M. White

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Giver of Wonders by Roseanna M. White.

About the Book

A miracle once saved her life ~ will another give her a future?

Cyprus was little more than a child when a fall left her paralyzed...and when the boy known as the wonder-worker healed her. Ever since, she has wondered why the Lord spared her, what he has in store for her. But her pagan father thinks she was spared solely so she could be introduced to the wealthy wonder-worker, Nikolaos.

Nikolaos has never questioned that his call in life is to dedicate himself to the church and to God. Never, that is, until he and his cousin Petros meet the compelling Cyprus Visibullis. For years he struggles with the feelings she inspires...and with the sure knowledge that Petros loves her too.

Petros knows he will never be good enough for Cyprus's father to consider him as a match for his favorite daughter not as long as Nikolaos is there. But when tragedy strikes the Visibullis family, he will do anything to save his beloved. Unfortunately, his beloved is determined to do anything to save her sisters ~ even at the cost of herself.

As the festival of lights bathes their Greek city in beauty, Cyprus, Petros, and Nikolaos celebrate the miracle of their Savior s birth together one last time. And in remembrance of their Lord's greatest gift, one of them will make the ultimate sacrifice for the others...and a centuries-long tradition will be born.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

- Patara, Lycia

She would die today, one way or another. Cyprus Visibullis risked one glance over her shoulder without slowing her feet. They still pursued, those lecherous sailors, shouting words at her that would make Mater’s face flush scarlet if she could hear.

Friday 56

The room filled as she prayed. With the scent of the cooking meat, with the music of the rain, and with the certainty that her Lord was right there, at her side. She had only to listen for him, and she would hear his voice.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Jack (The Minnesota Kingstons #1) by Susan May Warren

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Jack (The Minnesota Kingstons #1) by Susan May Warren releasing January 10. 

About the Book

There's Trouble in the North...

Meet Jack, a tracker with a past he’s trying to escape the first epic book of the Minnesota Kingston series by USA Today bestselling author Susan May Warren.

Her secret blew apart his life—and now she needs his help? If only he could say no…

Ten years should be long enough for Jack to forget the girl-next-door, his kid sister’s bestie and the woman—no, girl—who derailed his life. Now, he sort of likes his loner world as a missing person’s tracker. Well, mostly. But of course, when he returns home for his sister’s wedding, there she is…
Nope, not forgotten at all.

Of course Jack the Grump has shown up for his sister’s wedding, and by the way he looks at Harper, um, clearly her sins aren’t forgiven. So what—she’s sooo over her best-friend’s brooding, dark oldest brother. Really.

Then a bridesmaid goes missing.

And sure, Harper is a journalist who knows how to sniff out truth, but the clock is ticking and there’s only one person who can help…Perfect. No problem. She’s not going to fall for her childhood crush again. Promise.

Yes, Jack can admit that Harper’s not the girl he used to call Pigtails anymore. She’s all grown up…but he’s not going to get burned again. Still, what’s a guy going to do?

So, find her missing friend, get the bride down the aisle and ditch town before they find themselves in over their heads…or worse.

Dead.

Jack is a best friend’s brother, childhood crush, grumpy-to sunshine, sweet but sizzly romantic suspense about second chances and finding the family you always wanted…

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticiapating?

Review: Fireproof (Chasing Fire: Montana #6) by Susan May Warren

About the Book

SECRETS. BETRAYAL. SACRIFICE.
THIS TIME, THEY'RE NOT JUST FIGHTING FIRE.

An original series created by bestselling authors Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips.

Can they save the town, find a missing nuke, and protect their hearts from getting burned?

Jade Ransom is a seasoned lead smoke jumper with something to prove. Haunted by a past mistake, she's determined to show she has what it takes to lead her own team. But on her first day fighting a raging wildfire, she rescues an injured yet mysteriously driven man from the flames—Crispin Lamb, who has even bigger problems than her.

Crispin has been secretly hunting the dangerous criminal organization called The Brotherhood for years. After already saving his sister from them and getting severely beaten, he's now on the hunt to find Henry, a man who may have stolen a nuclear missile from the gang. If Henry does have the nuke, Crispin needs to keep it out of the Brotherhood's hands at all costs, as they have plans to sell the weapon to Russia.

With the wildfire bearing down and The Brotherhood closing in, Crispin and Jade are thrust together in a deadly race to find Henry and the potential nuke before either create an even greater catastrophe. But as their attraction grows amid the threats surrounding them, can they overcome the secrets of their pasts to save the town from total destruction?

With explosive twists, sizzling chemistry, and high-stakes danger around every burning tree, this thrilling romantic suspense will keep you gripped until the smoldering final page. Fans of Susan May Warren’s epic romantic adventures won't be able to put down Jade and Crispin's race against the clock to stop a nuclear threat all while battling fiery odds and the flames igniting between them.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

What an exciting and action-packed conclusion to this series. I’ve enjoyed every book, and this wraps things up in such a great way. It was a thrilling race against time. There was a missing nuke, raging wildfires, and bad guys on the loose. There was never a dull moment! The lightning-fast pace and escalating danger had me flipping through the pages as fast as possible.

I really liked Jade and Crispin. They were both strong-willed and determined, and had amazing chemistry. Their banter was so much fun!

I loved the strong message of faith woven throughout the pages. My favorite quote was: “Why worry about things I can’t control? I have today. And that’s all I need to worry about.” What a great reminder!

If you’re a fan of action-packed romantic suspense, you’ll love this series! I highly recommend it!

FOUR STARS

Review: Empire of Ruin: Book 1 by Merrie Destefano

About the Book
Romeo & Juliet meet Norse mythology when our world is invaded by mythical dragons...

Unleash the Dragons, Embrace the Storm

Seventeen-year-old Charlotte Buchanan’s quiet Appalachian life shatters when dragons from Norse legends invade her world, hunting for their lost queen.

Amidst friends that mysteriously go missing, a rekindled forbidden love, and a fast-approaching war, Charlotte uncovers a horrifying truth—she’s transforming into the very creature threatening her world.

With her folk-healer sister’s help, Charlotte’s search for answers takes her to the edge of the universe, to Asgard itself, where she clashes with dragons, and the fate of nine realms hangs in the balance.

To survive, she must embrace the power of a Thunderer, risking everything to save her world—or become the legend she’s been running from.

Will she rise as a hero, or fall as a monster?

By USA Today bestselling author and award-winning author, Merrie Destefano.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

This book completely blew me away! I’ve loved everything I’ve read by this author, but Empire of Ruin might just be my new favorite. It was such an imaginative story! It had impressive worldbuilding, complex characters, and an intriguing plot. I was hooked from the first page to the last and didn’t want it to end.

I was so intrigued by the Invaders. What were they? Why were they there? What was their purpose? I needed to know!

There was a feeling of unease and creeping danger throughout the book. I was so nervous for the characters. I got goosebumps several times.

Everything about this story was so vivid and had an authentic, almost haunting feel about it. And even though it’s a fantasy story, it felt real. This story came to life. I absolutely loved it and highly, highly recommend it! I can’t wait for the next one!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS