Review: Blooper Freak (The Worst Detective Ever #5) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

Real life is nothing like TV.

Joey Darling, actress and detective by default, is reminded of this point daily. If only problems could be solved in sixty minutes, complete with commercial breaks, closing credits, and a catchy theme song.

Joey accompanies Detective Jackson Sullivan to a crime scene, only to discover she knows the victim. After a friend is accused of murder, Joey can’t refuse her help—however bumbling it might be. Unfortunately, she only seems to dig up more questions instead of desperately needed answers.

When a misguided fan offers clues, Joey discovers something much deeper than a single crime. But can she sort through all the various story lines to get to the truth? Or will one blooper after another put not only the investigation in jeopardy but her life as well?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Review

Four Stars

Blooper Freak is the fifth book in the Worst Detective Ever series. I'm beginning to sound like a broken record here, but, seriously, this series just keeps getting better and better. When a friend is accused of murder, and with more and more evidence stacking up against him, Joey will stop at nothing to prove his innocence. The mystery had many possible leads and I never figured it out. The last half of this book flew by. I couldn't read it fast enough. A little bit more information is brought to light concerning Joey's dad and it feels like we're inching ever closer to finding out what happened to him. I'm beyond exited to find out what happens next in Flaw Abiding Citizen! Highly recommend this series!

To learn more about Christy Barritt, visit her website, Facebook page, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Can't Wait Wednesday: Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof

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 Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof releasing July 3, 2018.

About the Book

When Aven Norgaard leaves Norway to serve as housekeeper to her late husband’s cousins in Appalachia, she expects lads in need of care, not three grown men—each in need of a wife and bound by a powerful brotherhood. As the men carve out a living by brewing artisan liquor, young Haakon’s pursuit tempts Aven’s lonely spirit but it is his Deaf brother, Thor, whose silent strength shows her the depths of real love.

Unable to speak to any woman, Thor Norgaard never anticipates Aven to befriend him, let alone treat him as her safe harbor. Though hard cider is their livelihood and his greatest talent, he fights his way to sobriety with Haakon’s help, defying the bottle for Aven’s hand — only to face a battle of the heart that tests even the strongest bonds of brotherhood.

Why I Need It

Joanne Bischof's The Lady and the Lionheart is one of my all time favorites, so I've been anxiously awaiting her next release. Sons of Blackbird Mountain sounds AMAZING!...  and that cover is gorgeous! I can't wait to get my hands on this book!

What book are you eagerly anticipating? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Top Ten Tuesday: Christmas Books on My TBR List

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and The Bookish.

The Topic for this week is: Top Ten Books On My Winter TBR, but I thought I'd add a little twist and share some Christmas books that are on my TBR list.

Enchanted: A Christmas Collection

by Melissa Tagg

Christmas at Gate 18

by Amy Matayo

Nowhere for Christmas

by Heather Gray

Ordinary Snowflakes

by Jennifer Rodewald

A Cliché Christmas

by Nicole Deese

Candy Lane Christmas

by Jackie Castle

Light the Dark
by Christy Barritt

The Hope of Christmas

by Jodie Wolfe, Terri Wangard, & Linda Shenton Matchett

Holly, Ivy, & Intrigue
by Joanie Bruce, Alexa Verde, & Denise Weimer

Twice Upon a Christmas
by Shanna Swendson

Do you have any Christmas books on your TBR list that you're excited to read?

Review: Join the Flub (The Worst Detective Ever #4) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

There’s no business like show business . . . especially when a killer is involved.

Joey Darling’s local movie premiere was supposed to be a win-win for everyone involved. All the proceeds would go to the children’s wing at a local hospital, and the online buzz would create positive press for the area’s tourism. But things go awry when the event is sabotaged and Joey’s stunt double is seriously injured.

Suspects seem sparser than quality G-rated movies, and police fear the intended target was actually Joey. Detective Jackson Sullivan and neighbor Zane Oakley—two men competing for Joey’s affection—insist on trading off guard duty until the bad guy is behind bars. To make matters even worse, Joey’s ex shows up right before the release of his tell-all book about his life with the Hollywood sweetheart.

Someone seems determined to create real-life drama. But Joey isn’t one to be deterred. Though a movie-worthy villain wants to pull the plug on this production—and maybe even on a few people’s lives—Joey is determined that the show must go on.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Review

Four Stars

Join the Flub is another awesome addition to the Worst Detective Ever series. Joey is becoming one of my all-time favorite detectives. She's far better at the job than she gives herself credit for. I've said this before, but I'll say it again because it's true-she's incredibly relatable. You wouldn't expect a Hollywood starlet to be, but there's times when she says or does something and I start laughing because... yep... I've thought or done it before too.

There was a big sense of danger throughout which made Join the Flub have a bit more of a serious vibe to it. There were still plenty of laughs, too, though. A lot happened in this book. The mystery was great. I was sure I had the culprit figured out... Yeah... not so much, lol. Eric, Joey's ex husband, showed up in the flesh. And wow... what a complete and total jerk! I just thought he was bad before “meeting” him. He's terrible! But I do believe I'm developing quite the crush on Jackson. He's an awesome guy. I can't wait to find out what happens in the next book, Blooper Freak!

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

To learn more about Christy Barritt, visit her website, Facebook page, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

$25 Cover Reveal Giveaway – My Sister’s Intended by Rachael Anderson

Coming Spring 2018
My Sister’s Intended by Rachael Anderson

For as long as Prudence can remember, it has been understood that her sister will one day wed the eldest son of their nearest neighbor. Such an alliance will benefit both families and bring a great deal of joy to all parents involved.

Unfortunately, Prudence has never been able to feel as joyful. She believes her sister is mad to consider marrying a man she hardly knows, even if he will one day make her a countess. Titles and wealth shouldn’t factor into matters of the heart, and as an aspiring romance novelist, Prudence cannot fathom how anyone could even think of settling for less than love. She certainly wouldn’t, and she doesn’t want her sister to either.

Unable to stand by and do nothing, Prudence sets out to help the awkward couple discover the best in each other with the hope that they will eventually find love. What she neglected to foresee, however, was that she might fall in love with Lord Knave herself.

Author Rachael Anderson

A USA Today bestselling author, Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.

Website

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway

Ends 12/17/17


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

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: One Enchanted Noël: A Novella (Enchanted Christmas Collection #3) by Melissa Tagg

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. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and 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.

This week I'm featuring One Enchanted Noël: A Novella (Enchanted Christmas Collection #3) by Melissa Tagg.

Book Beginning

Usually on nights like this-with snowfall glimmering under the hazy glow of lamplight, a peaceful hush hovering over the town square-Leigh Renwyck could almost forget.

Friday 56 (56% on my Kindle)

It was a shriek from downstairs that jerked Leigh from sleep the next morning.

About the Book

Secrets, Sparks and Second Chances…a Heartwarming Holiday Romance

Seb Pierce isn’t exactly a cowboy, but after fifteen years on a ranch in Texas, he might as well be. And he’d do just about anything to keep the rancher who took him in so many years ago from losing his land…including returning to the wealthy roots he’s long since abandoned. Seb agrees to work for his stern grandfather for one year in return for an early draw on his inheritance. But he never expected the agreement to land him in a quirky small town in Iowa at Christmas-time, renovating a dilapidated theater…and running into a woman he never thought he’d see again. She might not remember him, but he remembers her.

After too many years away from her hometown—and too many failures to count—Leigh Renwycke is finally back in Maple Valley and living the stable life she used to wish for. If only she could shake the old restlessness that used to get her into trouble. When Seb Pierce waltzes into her world and begs for her help planning the theater’s holiday reopening, it could be the solution to her discontent. If she pulls it off, it might be enough to jumpstart a new career…and to prove once and for all that the new-and-improved Leigh is here to stay.

But between old secrets and new sparks, restoring a town treasure in time for Christmas may not be as easy as it seems…especially once Leigh learns the truth about Seb.   

What have you been reading lately? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Review: Happily Ever After Collection (A Timeless Romance Anthology)

About the Book

From the publisher of the USA TODAY bestselling & #1 Amazon bestselling Timeless Romance Anthology series in Clean Romance, comes our HAPPILY EVERY AFTER COLLECTION.

Six brand new fairy tale romance novellas by New York Times bestseller Jessica Day George, and bestselling authors Julie Wright, Sarah M. Eden, Julie Daines, Heather B. Moore, and Annette Lyon.

MAIL-ORDER PRINCESS by Jessica Day George: Elise flees her small kingdom and arrives in the New World with only her two trunks and seven swans—her seven brothers to be exact. But Elise will do anything to get her brothers away from their cruel stepmother’s curse, even if it means accepting the long-distance marriage proposal to a former count turned farmer.

THE MILLER’S DAUGHTER by Julie Wright: When Isa meets Thomas Rumple, she is quickly infatuated with his good looks and natural charm, until she learns his true identity. Due to a wild claim by her insufferable father, Isa’s life is threatened by the king if she can’t spin a room full of straw into gold, and Thomas may be the only one who can save her.

THE PEBBLED PATH by Sarah M. Eden: Deep in the heart of a mysterious forest, Gretel trades her freedom to save her beloved father from the spell of an evil enchantress. Even attempting to escape would cost her father his life. Gretel’s determination to fulfill her promise wavers when she meets Hansel, a young man who captures her heart. For, she loves him too dearly to put his life in danger, and he loves her too much to simply leave her to her fate.

BLACK FERN by Julie Daines: Rós is desperate to find work in order to care for her ailing father and younger sisters. She applies to the mysterious owner of a crumbling castle and is soon swept up in dark secrets. Unsure if the owner of the castle is man or beast, Rós determines to help him at all cost. She soon discovers that the cost may be too great, even for her.

SCARLET by Heather B. Moore: When Scarlet needs to fetch a healing tonic on the night when the wolves are at their most dangerous, she has no choice but to apply to her nemesis, August, for help. He agrees to help her, but they encounter a pack of wolves that put up a fierce fight, marking Scarlet as their newly targeted prey.

SO RARE A POWER by Annette Lyon: Stella knows she’s taking a risk each time she meets Patrick in the rose garden that they’ve cultivated together. And no matter how much her mother will disapprove of their relationship, Stella can’t deny her feelings for him. When the Snow Queen steals away Patrick to drain him of his powers of creating beauty and life, Stella must decide what she’s willing to risk to rescue him.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Review

Four Stars

I'm a big lover of fairy tale retellings, so when I first saw this book I just knew I had to read it. It's bursting with fairy tale goodness. There were stories where I knew the original tale very well and others I didn't know much about at all. My favorites were The Pebbled Path by Sarah M. Eden (Hansel and Gretel) and Black Fern by Julie Daines (Beauty and the Beast). All the stories in this collection were full of everything I could hope for, romance, a bit of danger, some mystery, and even a dash of magic here and there. Any lover of fairy tales is sure to enjoy this wonderful collection. Highly recommend!

MAIL ORDER PRINCESS BY JESSICA DAY GEORGE
Jessica Day George wrote one of my all-time favorite retellings-Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow, so I was really looking forward to reading Mail Order Princess. I wasn't familiar with the fairy tale this story was based on, but that didn't hamper my enjoyment any. I loved it! Set in the Old West, I found it to be very original.

THE MILLER'S DAUGHTER BY JULIE WRIGHT
Rumpelstiltskin! Rumple was great and Isa was very spirited. I really felt for Isa. Her situation infuriated me. I thought this was a really great twist on the original. I had a great time reading it.

THE PEBBLED PATH BY SARAH M. EDEN
I've never been disappointed by anything I've read by Sarah M. Eden. The Pebbled Path was really great, one of my favorites in this collection. I loved the interesting twist on Hansel and Gretel. Very unique!

BLACK FERN BY JULIE DAINES
Beauty and the Beast is my absolute favorite fairy tale. Black Fern was an awesome adaptation. The descriptions really drew me in and painted the scenes perfectly. This was my favorite story in the collection. I didn't want it to end.

SCARLET BY HEATHER B. MOORE
I think I've only read one other Little Red Riding Hood retelling, so I was excited to find out the path this one would take. While Scarlet wasn't one of my favorites from this collection, it was still good. The danger of the wolves was palpable and I read this one quickly.

SO RARE A POWER BY ANNETTE LYON
I don't think I've ever read anything featuring The Snow Queen, so this was an interesting read, but probably my least favorite of the bunch. One thing I did enjoy was how it transported me to the wintry setting so well that I could feel the biting chill in the air.

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

Can't Wait Wednesday: Defending America Series by Vannetta Chapman

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 Coyote's Revenge (Defending America #1) and Roswell's Secret (Defending America #2) by Vannetta Chapman releasing December 20.

About the Book

A clean, romantic suspense by bestselling author Vannetta Chapman

Aiden Lewis is the perfect undercover agent—a millionaire playboy who has committed his life to protecting his country. For Aiden, work comes first and allows him to make amends for his past.

Then Madison Hart is caught in the terrorist web of an insurgent named Coyote. Unaware that her life is in danger, she finds herself falling for the elusive Aiden Lewis. But Aiden disappears for days at a time, and he has a past that haunts him. Is their relationship doomed from the beginning? Can they learn to trust each another?

Coyote is the mastermind behind operation Dambusters, which is compromised because of Aiden. Coyote knows the way to hurt Aiden is to target Madison. As Coyote makes his move for revenge, both Aiden and Madison must face their past while their future hangs precariously in the balance.

This gripping romantic thriller combines a terrifyingly realistic plot with believable characters and fascinating details about military ops, terrorists, and the vulnerability of our infrastructure. A story that will leave you wondering how much of our past defines who we are, and how we can move beyond it to embrace our future.

About the Book

National Security Comes At a Price

Dean Dreiser learned that lesson long ago. Now, domestic terrorists are testing a biological weapon in southern New Mexico, and Dean is assigned a new partner—Dr. Lucinda Brown. Lucy is the leading expert in molecular biology, but she has no field experience.

The terrorists are willing to kill thousands in order to trigger the fall of the two-party system and usher in a new political dawn. Lucy tracks the genetic print of the weapon while Dean hunts the insurgents. Separately, they don’t stand a chance against the terrible secret that dominates the night skies of Roswell, New Mexico. Together, they can do more than survive. They can combat and conquer this frightening threat.

This fast-paced romantic thriller combines a twisting plot, believable characters, and fascinating details about military ops, bio-agents, terrorists, and forensics—all set against the backdrop of the dusty desert land of the Southwest. Be prepared for a read that will keep you up well into the night and an ending that will leave you questioning the true nature of Roswell’s Secret.

Why I Need It

Romantic Suspense is one of my favorite genres and Vannetta Chapman is one of my favorite authors. So, when you combine the two, it's sure to be a winner! Plus, I'm really excited that both books are releasing on the same day! Yay for not having to wait a long time between installments! 

What book are you eagerly anticipating? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Top Ten Tuesday: Books I'm Thankful For

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and The Bookish.

The Topic for this week is: Top Ten Books I'm Thankful For

Written in the Stars

by Christina Coryell

The Uncloaked Trilogy

by J. Rodes

Out of Time Series

by Nadine Brandes

Huntress (Life After #1)
by Julie Hall

Waterfall (River of Time #1)

by Lisa T. Bergren

The Merchant's Daughter

by Melanie Dickerson

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall

by Julie Klassen

In Perfect Time

by Sarah Sundin

Prisoner of Night and Fog

by Anne Blankman

Poison Study

by Maria V. Snyder

Rosemary and Rue

by Seanan McGuire

Kissed by an Angel

by Elizabeth Chandler

What books are you thankful for?

Review: The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright

About the Book

Outstanding Debut Novel from an Author to Watch

Kaine Prescott is no stranger to death. When her husband died two years ago, her pleas for further investigation into his suspicious death fell on deaf ears. In desperate need of a fresh start, Kaine purchases an old house sight unseen in her grandfather's Wisconsin hometown. But one look at the eerie, abandoned house immediately leaves her questioning her rash decision. And when the house's dark history comes back with a vengeance, Kaine is forced to face the terrifying realization she has nowhere left to hide.

A century earlier, the house on Foster Hill holds nothing but painful memories for Ivy Thorpe. When an unidentified woman is found dead on the property, Ivy is compelled to discover her identity. Ivy's search leads her into dangerous waters and, even as she works together with a man from her past, can she unravel the mystery before any other lives--
including her own--are lost?

Amazon / Goodreads / Barnes and Noble / Christianbook.com

My Review

Four Stars

I've read a few books featuring dual timelines and, I've gotta say, The House on Foster Hill is the best by far! With the others, I'd find myself favoring one time period over the other. But not with this book. Both times were immensely compelling. The way they connected was fascinating.

I was completely drawn into this atmospheric tale from the very beginning and was held captive until the end. I was always eager to find out what would happen next. The mystery kept me guessing and I didn't figure it out until the reveal. This story stayed with me even when I wasn't reading it, even invading my dreams. Wright painted such a vivid picture that I could perfectly see the scene and, at times, felt as if I was right in the middle of the story with these characters.

All of the characters came to life. My favorite was probably Ivy. She was an completely unique woman who was ahead of the times and breaking boundaries in 1906 of what was proper for a young lady to do.

The House on Foster Hill was a superbly written mystery. I can't wait to see what Jaime Jo Wright will come up with next! If you're looking for a great, spooky tale, I highly recommend this novel!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

To learn more about Jaime Jo Wright, visit her website, on Facebook, and Twitter.

Review: Boundary Born (Boundary Magic #3) by Melissa F. Olson

Speculative Saturday is back!!! Today, I'm sharing my review for Boundary Born, book three in this fantastic Urban Fantasy series.

About the Book

Something wicked is at work in Colorado’s supernatural community. Vampires are being paralyzed or killed with poison…a weapon favored by witches. This offense threatens to break apart the already-fractured alliance between witches and the undead.

The state’s cardinal vampire, Maven, summons boundary witch Allison “Lex” Luther to stop the killing before it ignites a war. Lex has barely started investigating when she gets another surprise: the biological father she’s never met arrives on her doorstep. He has answers to all of Lex’s questions about her bloodline, but getting those answers could mean betraying the life she’s already built.

Then the next vampire is poisoned—and this time it’s Maven herself. The new evil that hunts Lex is powerful and ruthless enough to stop the strongest supernatural creature in the state. In order to find such a killer, Lex will have to face down her own birthright and call on every ally—both living and dead.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Review

4.5 Stars

Boundary Born has been in my TBR pile for awhile. I'm always telling myself, 'Oh, it'll be the next book I read.' But something would always come up and it'd get pushed back again and again. Why? I have no idea, but I'm so mad at myself for taking so long to read it! The first two books in the series were awesome and Boundary Born was just as good-maybe even better than it's predecessors.

Even though it had been awhile since I read the previous books, I had no trouble jumping right back in and remembering everything. I dived right into this book and read as fast as I could. It was super interesting learning about Lex's biological family and more about her boundary magic. The plot moved along quickly and there were quite a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming. Now that I've finished this series, I really need to go back and read the Scarlett Bernard series. I'd highly recommend this series to anyone who loves urban fantasy!

This book does contain some strong language.

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Bloom and Doom (Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery #1) by Beverly Allen

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. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and 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.

This week I'm featuring Bloom and Doom (Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery #1) by Beverly Allen.

Book Beginning

"White roses symbolize innocence."

Friday 56 (56% on my Kindle)

Rita Watkins has a habit of storming in, whether it be a light drizzle just to dampen everybody else's enthusiasm or a full gale with flashes of anger and rolling rumbles of sarcasm. But the worst storm, the one the social meteorologists feared the most, was the sudden calm of an icy gaze. No one knew for sure what lay behind that front, but all agreed it couldn't be good.

About the Book

As the co-owner of The Rose in Bloom, Audrey Bloom creates magnificent flower arrangements for brides to be. Though helping to plan a wedding can be stressful, it’s nothing compared to the groom turning up dead.

A designer of eye-catching bridal bouquets—many of them based on the Victorian meanings behind each flower—Audrey Bloom is used to celebrations that end with happily ever after. In fact, every couple she’s worked with is still together, living in wedded bliss. But her perfect record is about to be broken.

Her childhood friend Jenny Whitney has reeled in the most eligible bachelor in Ramble, Virginia, and she’s hired Audrey to design the bouquet. But before Jenny can walk down the aisle clutching her blend of anemone, scabious, and pussy willow (a floral disaster in Audrey’s mind), the groom is found dead—sprinkled with bits of a bouquet. This is bad for business—not to mention for Jenny, who has become the prime suspect. So Audrey decides to do a little digging herself, hoping she won’t be the next Ramble resident pushing up daisies…

What have you been reading lately? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Review: The Gift of the Inn by Golden Keyes Parsons

About the Book

Despite her best efforts to go through the motions and the good fortune to have a husband stationed stateside rather than in the midst of the brutal combat unfolding in Europe and the Pacific, Christmas Eve is a less than festive time for innkeeper Naomi Lockhart. It’s been especially hard since she, her husband, Quenton, and their daughters restored her parents’ Colorado boarding house and turned it into a charming inn. Residing in the setting of the tragedy and haunted by a heartbreaking and terrible loss, Naomi can’t help but relive the Christmas Eve so many years ago when her infant child disappeared without a trace.

Gracie brushed aside comments about how little she resembled her parents for most of her life without really understanding why they made her feel so odd. A slip of the tongue by her grandmother brings the discovery that the people who raised her are not her birth parents and acts as a catalyst for the start of a search for her real identity. After a whirlwind romance with a young, Europe-bound GI and subsequent elopement in defiance of her affluent, traditional parents, Gracie flees Texas for Colorado, following one of the few clues that she has about her real identity. She finds herself alone and working as a waitress in blizzard-prone Colorado Springs, Colorado at the end of her pregnancy. Snow bound, she struggles to bring her child into the world as she becomes ever more confident that the innkeeper from across the road, who acts as a midwife of necessity, may hold the answers she seeks. Meanwhile, her wounded husband desperately tries to reach her side.

Set against the backdrop of the Second World War, this final novel from beloved writer Golden Keyes Parsons is an engaging story of love, loss and reunion.

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Goodreads

My Review

Four Stars

I was sad to learn about this author's passing and that 'The Gift of the Inn' is her final book. But oh, what a beautiful book it is. I was pulled into the character's lives and held captive until the very end. I read it as fast as I could and kept thinking about it when I'd have to set it aside to do other things. There was a feeling of haunting sadness at the beginning, but it was lovely to watch the mood shift as the novel progressed. There's a bit of a mystery that's slowly revealed throughout that had me super intrigued. There was a lot of jumping back and forth between people, places, and times, but I never got confused. It was all very interesting and I loved getting to see what was happening with all the characters. 'The Gift of the Inn' was a very heartwarming Christmas story that I enjoyed very much.

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

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Innkeeper's Daughter by Michelle Griep

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 The Innkeeper's Daughter by Michelle Griep releasing March 1, 2018.

About the Book

A London officer goes undercover to expose a plot against the Crown

Dover, England, 1808: Officer Alexander Moore goes undercover as a gambling gentleman to expose a high-stakes plot against the king—and he’s a master of disguise, for Johanna Langley believes him to be quite the rogue. . .until she can no longer fight against his unrelenting charm.

All Johanna wants is to keep the family inn afloat, but when the rent and the hearth payment are due at the same time, where will she find the extra funds? If she doesn’t come up with the money, there will be nowhere to go other than the workhouse—where she’ll be separated from her ailing mother and ten-year-old brother.

Alex desperately wants to help Johanna, especially when she confides in him, but his mission—finding and bringing to justice a traitor to the crown—must come first, or they could all end up dead.

Why I Need It

I read Griep's 12 Days at Bleakly Manor not too long ago and absolutely loved it. So when I saw The Innkeeper's Daughter, I immediately added it to my wishlist. Plus, how amazing does this sound? I'm a sucker for characters who go undercover.

What book are you eagerly anticipating? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Review: Safety in Blunders (The Worst Detective Ever #3) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

Hollywood sweetheart Joey Darling's adventures and mishaps continue in the third book of the charming mystery series set in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

My name is Joey Darling, and I’m a disgrace to imaginary detectives everywhere.

When actress Joey Darling discovers a mermaid tail with drops of fresh blood on it while hiking in a remote nature preserve, she knows something suspicious is going on.

As details surface, Joey realizes she’s dealing with a problem she has encountered one too many times: someone desperate for fame who falls victim to a predator. With the help of her neighbor Zane Oakley and the opposition of local detective Jackson Sullivan, Joey hunts for answers, unaware of the deadly net in which she’s about to entangle herself.

Joey knows she’s a fish out of water when it comes to cracking cases, but can she use her talent—acting—to help find the missing woman? Or will Joey end up swimming with sharks?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Review

Four Stars

I am loving this series! Each book seems to get better and better! Safety in Blunders is book three in the Worst Detective Ever series, but it can definitely stand alone.

During a hike with Zane, her adventure-loving neighbor (and potential love interest), former TV detective and self-proclaimed worst detective ever, Joey Darling stumbles upon a bloodied mermaid tail which leads to a missing person search. With her new “consulting” job with the police department, Joey gets an inside look at the investigation while shadowing Detective Jackson Sullivan (her other potential love interest). Even with her 'inside look', she still takes crazy risks while trying to solve the mystery which inevitably leads to dangerous situations. I mean, we're still talking about Joey Darling here, lol. There's never a dull moment with her.

There were so many laugh-out-loud moments, but also times when I was on the edge of my seat. And while this book was a bit slower paced than the previous one, I still enjoyed it a great deal and read it as fast as I could. The mystery was superb. I had my suspicions, but I didn't figure it out until the reveal. On the love triangle front, I'm pretty sure I know which guy I'm rooting for Joey end up with. Now, just gotta wait and see the outcome! I loved the ending! I can't wait to start the next book, Join the Flub!

To learn more about Christy Barritt, visit her website, Facebook page, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Bones to Pick (A Brie Hooker Mystery Book 1) by Linda Lovely

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. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and 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.

This week I'm featuring Bones to Pick (A Brie Hooker Mystery Book 1) by Linda Lovely.

Book Beginning

Hello, I'm Brie, and I'm a vegan.

It sounds like I'm introducing myself at a Vegetarians Anonymous meeting. But, trust me, there aren't enough vegetarians in Ardon County, South Carolina, to make a circle much less hold a meeting.

Friday 56

I parked in front of Eva's cabin and received the usual greeting from Braden and Jim, two of the Udderly dogs who lazed near the cabin when they were off goat-guarding duties.

About the Book

Living on a farm with four hundred goats and a cantankerous carnivore isn’t among vegan chef Brie Hooker’s list of lifetime ambitions. But she can’t walk away from her Aunt Eva, who needs help operating her dairy.

Once she calls her aunt’s goat farm home, grisly discoveries offer ample inducements for Brie to employ her entire vocabulary of cheese-and-meat curses. The troubles begin when the farm’s pot-bellied pig unearths the skull of Eva’s husband, who disappeared years back. The sheriff, kin to the deceased, sets out to pin the murder on Eva. He doesn’t reckon on Brie’s resolve to prove her aunt’s innocence. Death threats, ruinous pedicures, psychic shenanigans, and biker bar fisticuffs won’t stop Brie from unmasking the killer, even when romantic befuddlement throws her a curve.

What have you been reading lately? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Review: Lady Jayne Disappears by Joanna Davidson Politano

About the Book

When Aurelie Harcourt's father dies in debtor's prison, he leaves her just two things: his wealthy family, whom she has never met, and his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll. Her new family greets her with apathy and even resentment. Only the quiet houseguest, Silas Rotherham, welcomes her company.

When Aurelie decides to complete her father's unfinished serial novel, writing the family into the story as unflattering characters, she must keep her identity as Nathaniel Droll hidden while searching for the truth about her mother's disappearance--and perhaps even her father's death.

Author Joanna Davidson Politano's stunning debut set in Victorian England will delight readers with its highly original plot, lush setting, vibrant characters, and reluctant romance. 

Amazon / Goodreads / Barnes and Noble / ChristianBook.com

My Review

Five Stars

I'd heard such amazing things about Lady Jayne Disappears, so I was beyond excited to read it. I've gotta say, all the praise is well warranted! I was held captive from the first page to the last. I absolutely loved the author's writing style. It's wholly unique and had me reading as fast as I could. It was a perfect Gothic mystery that constantly kept me guessing.

Aurelie was infinitely likeable. The way she handled everything, the way she held herself in less than ideal situations was so admirable. And Silas... what can I say about him? He was so intriguing! I could never get enough of him. I loved all the great nuggets of wisdom sprinkled throughout the novel.

Lady Jayne Disappears is one of those books that's so astoundingly good that I have a difficult time putting into words my feelings about it and describing exactly how awesome it is. I just want to shout to everyone to go read it right now! You won't be disappointed! I can't say enough good things about this book! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

To learn more about Joanna Davidson Politano, visit her website, on Facebook, Goodreads, and Amazon.

Can't Wait Wednesday: One Enchanted Noël: A Novella (Enchanted Christmas Collection Book 3) by Melissa Tagg

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 One Enchanted Noël: A Novella (Enchanted Christmas Collection Book 3) by Melissa Tagg releasing November 21.

About the Book

Secrets, Sparks and Second Chances…a Heartwarming Holiday Romance

Seb Pierce isn’t exactly a cowboy, but after fifteen years on a ranch in Texas, he might as well be. And he’d do just about anything to keep the rancher who took him in so many years ago from losing his land…including returning to the wealthy roots he’s long since abandoned. Seb agrees to work for his stern grandfather for one year in return for an early draw on his inheritance. But he never expected the agreement to land him in a quirky small town in Iowa at Christmas-time, renovating a dilapidated theater…and running into a woman he never thought he’d see again. She might not remember him, but he remembers her.

After too many years away from her hometown—and too many failures to count—Leigh Renwycke is finally back in Maple Valley and living the stable life she used to wish for. If only she could shake the old restlessness that used to get her into trouble. When Seb Pierce waltzes into her world and begs for her help planning the theater’s holiday reopening, it could be the solution to her discontent. If she pulls it off, it might be enough to jumpstart a new career…and to prove once and for all that the new-and-improved Leigh is here to stay.

But between old secrets and new sparks, restoring a town treasure in time for Christmas may not be as easy as it seems…especially once Leigh learns the truth about Seb.   

Why I Need It

It's getting close to Christmastime, so that means lots of new Holiday Romances are being released. I'm a big fan of Melissa Tagg, so I can't wait to start reading One Enchanted Noël!

What book are you eagerly anticipating? Leave a comment below and let me know.