Showing posts with label contemporary. Show all posts
Showing posts with label contemporary. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 10, 2026

REVIEW WEDNESDAY - A June Bride

 Good morning, readers!

We're stepping into June all about the brides. This week's novella was interesting. Let's get into the book and the review.


BLURB:

The reality show ended with an engagement, so why doesn’t this feel like the fairy tale she thought it would be?

The Rejection Connection hardly sounds like the place to fall in love, but Wynne Hardy walked off the reality-TV set with an engagement ring. And in the whirlwind of publicity and preparation that follows a TV-bride-to-be in her fifteen minutes of fame, Wynne barely has time to consider how she really feels about her new fiancé . . . to say nothing of how she still feels about her ex.

As the wedding plans develop, so too do Wynne’s doubts: Is she in love with Andy? Or is this really about Callum—the ex-boyfriend who sent her onto Rejection Connection in the first place? A nationally televised snub might be the best revenge . . . but is it a good reason to get married?

When Callum resurfaces at the worst possible moment, Wynne can’t help wondering if she’s made a huge mistake. Is her marriage a publicity stunt? And what happens when the cameras stop rolling, and she has a husband she barely knows?

A June Bride is Book 7 in the A Year of Weddings series. 

I've never been a fan of reality TV, unless it's a cooking show (those are a little harder to script, I think, though not impossible). But as this story brings to light, most of it is scripted for ratings. Meredith brings that to light when, as her Marathon Mom fame is dying, she steps onto Wynne's wedding dress train for a shot at a new run; a way to keep herself in the spotlight. Wynne doesn't see this at first. She's too caught up in her upcoming wedding to her chosen one on the reality show, The Rejection Connection. But was she really 'rejected'? Or did she misunderstand why Callum walked away? 

The evolution of this story was smooth, believable, and worth the read. Once you read the book, please leave a comment either here, or in your own review whether or not Andy was really in it to find a partner or was he also riding the reality train?

I'm giving A June Bride...

Remember, you can find out more about Marybeth Whalen and her books by clicking any of the links below.

WEBSITE

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

All my best!

~ Angela



Wednesday, May 20, 2026

REVIEW WEDNESDAY - Lavender & Quill

 Good morning, friends!



Today's book is interesting in the way the stories are presented. Let's check out the blurb, first.

When life fell apart in Seattle, Ashley St. James never thought she’d find herself back in Hope Hill—the small town of lavender fields, quirky neighbors, and lingering family ties. But inheriting her late father’s beloved bookstore, Lavender & Quill, might just be the second chance she didn’t know she needed.

Determined to reopen the shop and start fresh, Ashley quickly discovers that peeling back the layers of her father’s legacy won’t be easy. A devastating storm, hidden letters from the past, and a wealthy newcomer determined to reshape the town threaten her plans at every turn.

Thankfully, help arrives in the form of Noah Callahan—the quiet, skilled craftsman with a protective streak and a daughter who adores books as much as Ashley does. But as the repairs unfold and buried secrets surface, Ashley must decide if she’s ready to risk her heart—and stand her ground against the charming but dangerous newcomer intent on buying her out. 

With the support of her sisters, a blossoming romance, and the mystery of Lavender & Quill pulling her deeper into Hope Hill’s history, Ashley might just find that some chapters are worth rewriting.

Normally, (in other box sets I've read), each book in the set is it's own story. If the series is collaborative with multiple authors, while each story is different, there is a running theme. In other sets where all of the books are by one author, each story is different but offer multiple characters from the initial story yet each have their own book. Think seven sisters with each sister having her own story while everything winds together in a well-written series. 

Lavender & Quill is different. I've never seen this done before, making the way May North writes her own special voice. 

There are five books in Lavender & Quill. Each book is a novella of around eighty-six pages. But here's the kicker. Each novella appears to be just a continuation from the novella prior. While I've not read the entire 367-page boxed set, I have the feeling the collection is Ashley & Noah's story broken up into individual quick reads, rather than sitting down with the whole tome. Interesting way of creating a story.

May North is great with description and a way with comparative words. I enjoyed Book 1 of Lavender & Quill. I may try to finish the series before turning back to KU. 

In the mean time, I'm giving Lavender & Quill...

.8

All my best!

~ Angela



Wednesday, May 13, 2026

REVIEW WEDNESDAY - May Flowers

 Good morning, readers.

If you're looking for a quick read during your coffee break, today's book is for you.

BLURB:

Love blooms after the rain…

Aria Garcia is a fifth-grade teacher in Vermont, who likes to keep her private life private. Her co-workers are curious as to who is sending her flowers almost every single day. Aria has never felt the way she does with Damian Rossi. He makes her feel safe and, most importantly, loved.

With each new bouquet of flowers from Damian, Aria falls deeper in love. After a month of sneaking around, Damian is ready to show off his love for Aria. Will Aria be able to find the courage she needs to let go of her fears?


Stories don't come any sweeter than this. Don't be deceived by the length. A lot is packed into the forty-seven pages! 
First, Aria Garcia is dealing with past emotional trauma, making her afraid to fully step into a relationship with a guy that seems beyond perfect.
Next we have Damian, who from what we see from Aria's point of view seems like the perfect guy. Maybe too perfect. 
When Damian puts the brakes on their private relationship, Aria is forced to confront her dad. Later, seeing Damian in his sister's flower shop and how she and her husband interact she realizes something important. 

I saw something in this story I wish a dear friend of mine would understand. We have to let go of whatever happened in our past if we're to truly live in the present. Most of the time we can't do anything about what lives in our brain like the boogey man, orchestrating our every decision in the present. Talk about the situation with whomever was involved. Resolution or not, only you can decide what your true future holds - the happiness you deserve.

The only thing that confused me in it's inclusion was the Cinco de Mayo situation with her class. I couldn't pull it together. Maybe I missed something. So, if you read this book (and I hope you will), please let me know in the comments what you saw.

I'm giving MAY FLOWERS...
. 8
Remember to check out Eden Larsen's Good Reads and Amazon Author Page.

All my best!
~ Angela


Tuesday, April 7, 2026

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - Sage Donnell

 Good morning, friends!


As you'll see from her photo, water is Sage's happy place. Here's more about her:

BIO:

Sage grew up in Colorado, spent most of her adult life in Portland, Oregon, and now resides in Ajijic, Mexico. She is trying to improve her Spanish and has found that even in Mexico, she's still her. 

She is a not-too-serious hiker, a voracious reader, a lover of games, and an enjoyer of a good water-based activity on a hot day. Although her beloved dog only agrees with the first two activities.

I'll be reviewing her book, Spring Trip, tomorrow. In the mean time, you can find more about Sage and follow her through the following links:

GOODREADS   X-TWITTER  AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

All my best!

~ Angela



Tuesday, February 17, 2026

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - K. P. Dawson

 Good morning, readers!


This week I'm shining the spotlight on K. P. Dawson. She writes sweet contemporary romance, just my kind of stories. 

Here's a bit about, K. P.:

USA Today Bestselling Author, Kay P. Dawson writes sweet western romance - the kind that leaves out all of the juicy details and immerses you in a true, heartfelt love story. Growing up pretending she was Laura Ingalls, she’s always had a love for the old west and pioneer times. She believes in true love, and finding your happy ever after.

Happily married mom of two girls, Kay has always taught her children to follow their dreams. And, after a breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 39, she realized it was time to take her own advice. She had always wanted to write a book, and she decided that the someday she was waiting for was now.

She writes western historical, contemporary and time travel romance that all transport the reader to a time or place where true love always finds a way.

Tomorrow, I'll be reviewing Book 1 in a 3-book Prairie Promise series.

In the mean time, please pop by her links below to learn more about this author.

WEBSITE   FACEBOOK   BOOK BUB   NEWSLETTER

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

All my best!

~ Angela



Wednesday, January 14, 2026

REVIEW WEDNESDAY - Southern Snow

 Good morning, friends!

One of the joys of doing these weekly reviews is that I take time for me, time to curl up with a book and chill. 

Speaking of chill, have you seen the cozy reading shed on Instagram? I love that space. Check her out on Instagram - bookish.w.jess If I ever get this office finished, I'll have a cozy place to read rather than where ever I can find a spot without being interrupted. 

This week, we're reading SOUTHERN SNOW by B.R. Goodwin



Southern Snow is Book one of four in the Sugartree Winter Romance series.

Blurb:

For the last three years, Georgia has called the quirky southern town of Sugartree home, dutifully moving back to manage her parent’s coffee shop after her father suffered a heart attack and finding contentment in her busy schedule and the occasional shenanigans of her three younger siblings.

When Lakeland Lovett, troubled son of the local pastor, wafts through the door of Good Start Coffee like a tantalizing cup of hot chocolate, Georgia promises herself she won’t fall prey to his charms and annoyingly perfect face again. She’s not the girl she was in high school who foolishly put her trust and heart in his careless hands. She knows better now, and more importantly, she knows Lake… at least she thinks she does.

But with Lake strutting around Sugartree, driving Georgia crazy all over again with his pesky nicknames, dumb dimples, and swoon-worthy attention laser focused on her, she starts to find any promises to maintain her distance from Lakeland Lovett harder to preserve, and Georgia begins to see him, and her life in Sugartree, in a whole new way.

I just could not get into this book. I understand that every author has their own 'voice', their way of presenting a story. For Ms Goodwin, her voice reminds me a bit like Pulp Fiction. She starts with THEN when Georgia is a teenager going to her first dance, then she jumps to the NOW when Georgia is all grown up and back home. Next thing you know, we're back to THEN. 

She is great in staying in point of view and her description. 

I'm giving SOUTHERN SNOW...

.5

You'll find the book by clicking the Amazon link posted below the book cover above.

Until next week...

All my best!

~ Angela






Wednesday, October 8, 2025

REVIEW WEDNESDAY - Countdown to Halloween!

 Good morning, readers!

I leave for the Ozark Creative Writers conference early in the morning. If you've not registered, there is still time to join us. The link icon is in the sidebar. This is a great multi-genre conference I look forward to attending every year. If you come to the conference, be sure to look for me. I promise to help make your first time at our conference a memorable one.

Today's read, Countdown to Halloween!



Blurb:

In the heart of October, with just twenty days until the most haunting night of the year, the town of Winterwood is buzzing with excitement. From finding the perfect Halloween costumes to setting up the eeriest decorations, the anticipation grows. But beneath the layers of pumpkin spice and candy corn, family drama simmers, threatening to boil over.

Amidst the chaos, an upstart social media influencer with a reckless streak, turns Winterwood upside down with wild antics and viral challenges. Every post, every video becomes more ridiculous than the last, upping the stakes and stress-levels of everyone involved.

Countdown to Halloween is a delightful tale of love, laughter, and lanterns, where every tick of the clock brings a new twist, turning a quaint town's Halloween preparations into an unforgettable adventure. It's a reminder that even in the midst of darkness and drama, there's always a reason to celebrate. Prepare for a spirited ride full of twists, turns, and treats that you won't forget!

While each book has its own special charm, this series follows a continuing storyline with growing relationships and deepening connections. For the coziest and most rewarding reading experience, I recommend starting from the beginning and enjoying the journey in order.

Countdown to Halloween is Book 6 in a 9-Book series; each one counting down to a different holiday.

I'm taking into consideration I should have, and do recommend, starting with Book 1 (perhaps a great book to kick off your Christmas reading)

Because I started with Book 6, there were a lot of characters to attempt to remember their names and position within the small town. For instance, One of the early mention of Granny by Grace (granddaughter) you get the impression she's past on. Yet in a future chapter, Granny comes into the room, along with her bestie, Gladys.  I had to read that passage three times to make sure Granny was still among the living and not a typo in the story. I know this is a Halloween story but I didn't think she meant raising her characters from the beyond.

I also realize this is a 'small-town' romance, with everyone coming together but there are a lot of characters trying to play a roll that I believe would best be played behind the scenes, not actually IN the scene. 

The sole focus should be on Grace and Cody, their romance and Grace trying to do too much. Even she admits she needs help. She and Cody put a plan into place to help balance that so they can both spend more time together. by the way, Cody is the hot cowboy in this story. 

I read books to escape the drama of real life. This story did not deliver that key component in why I curl up with a book.

For that reason, I'm giving Countdown to Halloween...

You'll find more about Dianna Houx and her books by following any of the links below.

WEBSITE   GOOD READS   INSTAGRAM

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE 

All my best!

~Angela



Wednesday, August 6, 2025

REVIEW WEDNESDAY - Dandelion Serenade

 Good morning, readers.

I have a really good, quick read for you today.



BLURB:

Lauren Juniper and Nathan Brickner were once inseparable. Summers by the creek, winters sledding, and dandelion wishes made from childhood dreams. He wanted to chase the world. She chose the gentle allure of the town that had always known her.

Eight years ago, Nathan left Dogwood Creek chasing after adventure. Lauren stayed behind, building a life rooted in her vintage flower shop. Suddenly, he’s back—no longer the boy who once brought her dandelions to wish on, but a successful bridge engineer leading the town’s project to replace the old stone bridge that has always been the heart of their community.

To the town, it’s progress.

To Lauren, it’s personal. Her grandparents got engaged on that bridge!

As she fights to keep the charm the bridge has always had, she finds herself face-to-face with the man who broke her heart—and still knows exactly how to make it skip a beat. Nathan sees safety and innovation. Lauren sees memory and meaning. But somewhere in the clash of old and new, the spark between them flickers to life once more.

Like dandelion wishes caught on the wind, can they gather the scattered seeds of love and rebuild the trust they lost, or are some hearts too withered to open again?

I really enjoyed this book, and not because I know the author personally. 

The story is well- crafted. Lauren and Nathan have very similar personalities. At the core they both had the same dream, Nathan just didn't realize it at eighteen. All he could see was getting out of their small town, building a life with prestige and fancy cars. What he failed to realize was he could lose the most important part of his life by walking away from Lauren to pursue those 'things'. 

Lauren, on the other hand, is happy in her home town, the memories, friends and the life she grew up in. Well, as happy as she can be when Nathan walks away. She can't put all the blame on Nathan. In a sense she walked away from them, too by not replying to his efforts to contact her. 

If you're looking for a quick read, a sweet Christian romance, then you have it in Dandelion Serenade. Lori Soard has crafted a beautiful story you will want to read. 

Dandelion Serenade is Book 4 in the 5-Book Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series. 

Book 1 - Chasing Snowflakes - Lori Soard

Book 2 - An Early Spring - JoAnn Durgin

Book 3 - Love In Bloom - Lisa Prysock

Book 4 - Coming Soon!

I'm giving Dandelion Serenade ...



You'll find out more about Lori by checking out any of the links below.










Wednesday, May 14, 2025

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - Allie Winters

Hi friends!

I do apologize for this being a day late but Monday (when I should have been setting this up) was a rough day. Up too late on Mother's Day had me dragging Monday. I don't do well when up past my bedtime. LOL

Then there was last week when there was no book posts at all. I'd been reading a book and realized the author's work needed a bit of editing so I wanted that fixed for her before she posted it to Amazon. Hey, it happens. Especially, when you're life is crazy but you're still trying to live your dream. I'll have her book in a couple of weeks. The story is great! Stay tuned.

So here we are.. a day late but not short on talent. This week's author is Allie Winters. I found one of her books through Book Bub and like my book a couple of weeks ago, A Forest Between Us is Book 1 in a series. The others are out so I'll be doing some reading down the road. LOL

Here's a bit about Allie:

Allie writes within a variety of tropes but all romance. She is the author of the upcoming Aurora Bakery series, Crescent Pass series, the Lessons Learned series, the Bishop Brothers series, and the Suncoast University series.

Allie lives in sunny Florida with her husband, daughter, and two cats. A librarian by day, she spends her nights writing happily ever afters.

 Get access to free bonus epilogues by subscribing to her newsletter at alliewinters.com/extras

I'll be sharing my review tomorrow of A Forest Between Us. In the mean time, please check out Allie's links below.

WEBSITE   FACEBOOK   INSTAGRAM   GOODREADS   TIK TOK

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE


All my best!

~Angela

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - Michelle Major

 Good morning, dear friends!


While shopping at a big box store the other night I found the perfect book and author for this week. Guess what... The book I chose is even BOOK 1 in a new series by author, Michelle Major.


Here's a bit about Michelle:

USA Today bestselling author Michelle Major loves stories of new beginnings, second chances and always a happily ever after. An avid hiker and avoider of housework, she lives in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains with her husband, two teenagers, and a menagerie of spoiled furbabies. Connect with her at www.michellemajor.com.

I especially love that she is from my home state of Colorado and has a menagerie of spoiled furbabies.

I'll be reviewing her latest release, FORTUNE'S BABY CLAIM. As I mentioned before, this is Book 1(of 3) in the Fortunes of Texas - Digging For Secrets series.


You can pick up your copy by clicking on the Title above and catch up with Michelle through any of the links below.

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - Beth Carter

 Good morning, everyone!

Today, I want to introduce you to a talented author I've known for many years. We used to be in the same writing/ critique group in Springfield, Missouri. That was before she  transitioned from the corporate world to writing books.


Here's a bit about Beth:
Formerly a bank VP and hospital marketer, Beth Carter reinvented herself at mid-life to pen novels and children's picture books. She doesn't miss the 8 o'clock meetings whatsoever and much prefers yoga pants to corporate suits. Carter is a multi-award-winning author of the popular six-book Coconuts series, as well as standalone novels: BRIDE SWAP, SLEEPING WITH ELVIS and MIRACLE ON AISLE TWO. She also penned THE QUARANTINE COOKBOOK (a pandemic project for charity), four children's picture books, and a nonfiction book on writing, publishing, and marketing: I WROTE A BOOK. NOW WHAT?

 The author splits her time between Missouri and Florida. Fueled by coffee, nature, stories from being a single mom, plus her wild imagination, Carter pens hilarious, heartwarming novels. She loves board games, reading, boating, dancing, shopping, chardonnay, and the beach. Connect with Beth Carter on social media or via her website at www.bethcarter.com. Join the author's fun readers' group, Beth's Book Babes, for cover reveals, contests, giveaways, and all things books and reading!

I'll be reviewing her recent release, BRIDE SWAP, tomorrow. In the mean time, follow the links below:

WEBSITE   FACEBOOK   TWITTER-X   INSTAGRAM   PINTEREST

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

GOOD READS   BOOK BUB

FACEBOOK FOR Children's Books

All My Best!

~Angela




Wednesday, August 3, 2022

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - SOMETHING BLUE - Shirley Jump

 Good morning, everyone!

We come to the last author spotlight in this anthology. Shirley Jump may be the last on our list but she is one of the best. She has written great stories as well as been published in magazines and continues to share her writing experiences and knowledge with the rest of us. 

Having known Shirley for almost fifteen years, I was thrilled to see her name on the list for the SOMETHING BLUE anthology.



Let me introduce you to Shirley Jump:


When she isn't writing books, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shirley Jump competes in triathlons, mostly because all that training lets her justify mid-day naps and a second slice of chocolate cake. She's published more than 75 books in 24 languages, although she's too geographically challenged to find any of those countries on a map. 

SECOND CHANCE SWEETHEART – Shirley Jump  

When Harlan Winslow sorta-definitely kidnaps Jessie Midler before she can say I do to a senator’s son, he sets off a media frenzy. Harlan is desperate to save his former best friend from making a major mistake. He convinces the spitfire bride-to-be to hide out at Canyon Creek, a place that holds all their best and worst memories. Jessie has always been a little in love with Harlan, even if she won’t admit it. Could a couple weeks of togetherness turn two friends into…forever?

Who hasn't had a brief vision of being kidnapped by someone from their past... or at the very least get a do-over? 

Speaking of 'do-over', Shirley is a new bride (May 7th). Congratulations and Blessings on this new page in your love story.

You'll find Shirley Jump by following any of the following links:

WEBSITE   FACEBOOK   TWITTER   INSTAGRAM   GOODREADS

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

All my best

~Angela

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT - Sasha Summers

 Good morning, everyone!

The rib continues to heal. Bob is home so my mornings are usually cut into. With him getting up at 4 a.m. every day on the boat, he needs a few days to get used to sleeping in again. My couple of hours work are in the morning before he gets up - when he does't get up until 8 a.m. LOL

As I continue to heal, I will be getting back on track. Thank you for your patience.


Today, we're shining the Author Spotlight on USA Today Bestselling author, Sasha Summers.


Let's find out a bit about this talented author:
USA Today Bestselling Author Sasha Summers writes stories that celebrate the ups and downs, loves and losses, ordinary and extraordinary occurrences of life. Sasha pens fiction in multiple genres and hopes each and every book will draw readers in and set them on an emotional and rewarding journey. When not writing, she’s reading or spending time with her family somewhere in the Texas Hill Country. With a puppy on her lap and her favorite Thor mug full of coffee, Sasha is currently working on her next novel.

 She adores hearing from fans and invites you to visit her online.





BLURB:

Former soldier John Mitchell has come home after being discharged and asks his best friend, Natalie, to help him decompress. They’re both in for a shock when a precious baby girl is dropped on Natalie’s doorstep—and John is the father! Now John needs Natalie’s help more than ever. But Natalie has been in love with John forever. How can she help him find his way to being a family man if she’s not part of that family?


REVIEW:

While the plot seemed to come in a bit late for my personal taste, I did love the fact we knew from the beginning John and Natalie have a deep - rooted friendship. In my opinion, long-standing friendship is the best foundation for a solid relationship. 

Solely for the slow to grab me, I'm giving this book:


.8

THE RANCHER'S BABY SURPRISE is Book 3 in the TEXAS COWBOYS & K-9 series:





You will find Sasha Summers by visiting the following links:

WEBSITE   FACEBOOK   TWITTER   INSTAGRAM   GOODREADS   PINTEREST   


All my best
~Angela





Tuesday, March 8, 2022

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT & REVIEW - Jill Weatherholt

 Good afternoon, everyone!

I'm not sure about anyone else but I've really had a challenge finding center. This is my first full week back to work since before the holidays. Seriously? The first quarter of the year is almost history and here I am just finding my way back - which ties in beautifully to this week's Author Spotlight & Review.


Back in January I picked up three books with promise so I'd be ready to roll with the Tuesday posts. I just couldn't do it. The first one I'd intended was a New Years kind of story but the author never replied to any of my contacts, so I sat the book aside. (Incidently, that is going to be a topic for a new Author series I'll be sharing soon so stay tuned!)


First, let's meet the author:


Jill Weatherholt works for the City of Charlotte during the day. In the evenings and on weekends, she crafts heartwarming, contemporary romances about love, faith and foregiveness for Harlequin Love Inspired. She shares her life with her real-life hero and number one supporter. She believes in enjoying every moment because God has everything under control.



As I mentioned early, this book fits perfectly with where I am right now - finding my way back. That's what Luke Beckett does in this story.


The book, SEARCHING FOR HOME by Jill Weatherholt was a delightful read.  If you're familiar with my channel at all, then you know that any books that include children, animals or both rank at the top of my list. Throw in a rodeo cowboy hero and a heroine who's heart is planted in family and you have the perfect read. You'll find all of those in SEARCHING for HOME.


Meg Brennan has spent her life feeling as if Luke Beckett deserted her when he left home and joined the rodeo circuit right after high school.  You'll learn that the rodeo is a thorn in her side anyway. When her sister & brother-in-law left her in the care of  triplets, a cute country inn and a mound of debt, Meg knew how these children felt and was determined to bury her own heartache and bring love and hope to her nieces and nephew. Aside from the bills she was struggling to meet, she was doing an okay job of breathing from day to day... until Luke knocked on the door of the inn looking for a place to stay. Feelings she thought dormant increase her discomfort when he is referred to her clinic for physical therapy following a rodeo injury. 


We know how this ends. Of course it's a Happy Every After story... but it's how these two get there, and the triplets shenanigans that make the journey... and the read... that much more enjoyable.


SEARCH FOR HOME released December 28, 2021. You can order PRINT or eBOOK on Amazon. 

I'm giving SEARCH FOR HOME






Her newest release, A DREAM OF FAMILY, is available now. 


You can catch up with Jill by clicking on the following links.