The Highest of Hopes

GIVEAWAY

MASON, SUSAN ANNE
THE HIGHEST OF HOPES

After her beloved grandfather dies, Emmaline Moore is shocked to discover that her "deceased" father is living in Canada. With no other family, Emma embarks on a journey across the ocean accompanied by her best friend, Jonathan. Unfortunately, Randall Moore and his well-to-do family aren't thrilled by her arrival, fearing it will hinder his chance at becoming mayor of Toronto in 1919. Despite everything, Emma remains determined to earn their affection.

Jonathan Rowe has secretly loved Emma for years and hopes that during their trip he can win her heart. Concerned that Randall might reject her, Jonathan is ready to console Emma and bring her home. When she informs him that she has no intention of England, Jonathan begins to despair. Can he convince Emma to find value within herself rather than seeking it from a virtual stranger? And will she ever come to see that Jonathan is her true home?

My Review:

In which Emmaline Moore travels thousands of miles to discover that the love and acceptance she craves has been right next door all the time. Love the agonizing unrequited love theme that plays out through this story. Sometimes it's so delicious to be tortured by an author who knows how to be mean to her characters. And I say that with the utmost respect. :-)

It's Jonathan who has me all bent out of shape. He's the truest of best friends though he wants to be so much more! Oh, how I ached for him! His devotion and patience and desperate hope just shredded my heart!

Emmaline is clueless though. She's so focused on her quest to win her father's favour that she's oblivious to everything else. Her strong will carries her through hurt and heartache as she stubbornly clings to the hope of belonging to a family who doesn't want her. She struggles with issues of abandonment and loss which feed her insecurities and make her all the more desperate to find acceptance. But she's looking for it in all the wrong places and Mason weaves an inspiring faith thread into the story as Emmaline discovers the peace and joy that comes from the unconditional love of a Heavenly Father who accepts her as she is, flaws and all.

I was on romantical tenterhooks until the very end, desperately yearning for what appeared to be an elusive happily ever after. And then...whoosh of relief...not so elusive after all!  Happy satisfied reader -- that's me!

Sidenote: That image is the cover for the large print edition which I got from my library. True confession -- LPs have a special scent that makes me woozy with delight. A soft, shiny paper and ink smell that's unique to these editions. If you don't believe me go to your library and do a smell comparison test. Bwahahaha!

Other sidenote: This is the second book in the Canadian Crossings series but can absolutely be read as a standalone.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Highest of Hopes, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 24 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

The Cradle Conspiracy

GIVEAWAY

BARRITT, CHRISTY
THE CRADLE CONSPIRACY

A child in jeopardy
A heart-racing The Baby Protectors story

When the mother of the toddler Sienna Thompson is babysitting never returns for him -- and then the child's nearly abducted -- Sienna knows their lives are in danger. Sienna's neighbor, FBI agent Devin Matthews, thwarts the kidnapping and promises to protect Sienna and the boy. But when they discover the child's missing mother isn't who she claimed to be, can they survive long enough to uncover the truth?

My Review:

Whoa -- definitely a devour-in-one-gulp suspense! The edgy first scene sets the stage for trauma and danger. And trying to figure out the suspense!!!!!  -- well, Barritt totally blew me away by the end. My head is still spinning! And she nails the romance too. Devin has kept neighbour Sienna at a distance. He's on sabbatical from the FBI while he tries to work some things out but he's stuck in cranky-brooding mode...until the night he spies trouble at Sienna's house and rushes to the rescue. I do so love witnessing the uncrankying of a broody hero. :-) Especially one with strong protective instincts like Devin. Love the way the author brings them together as they gradually share confidences while dodging bullets and following clues. An action-packed, toe-curling whirl of a read!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a gently read copy of The Cradle Conspiracy, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 24 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

On a Summer Tide

GIVEAWAY

FISHER, SUZANNE WOODS
ON A SUMMER TIDE

Sometimes love hurts -- and sometimes it can heal in the most unexpected way.

Camden Grayson loves her challenging career, but the rest of her life could use some improvement. "Moving on" is Cam's mantra. But there's a difference, her two sisters insist, between one who moves on and one who just keeps on moving.

Cam's full-throttle life skids to a stop when her father buys a remote island off the coast of Maine. Paul Grayson has a dream to breathe new life into the island -- a dream that includes reuniting his estranged daughters. Certain Dad has lost his mind, the three sisters rush to the island. To Cam's surprise, the slow pace of island life appeals to her, and so do the locals. One in particular: Seth Walker, the scruffy island schoolteacher, who harbors more than a few surprises.

My Review:

Eeeeppp!!! I'm all starry-eyed over this new series by Suzanne Woods Fisher! I'm an ardent fan of her Amish novels and did wonder if a straight contemporary would have the same pizzazz -- and, boy, does it ever!!!!

An island in Maine is the perfect setting for this author's trademark community-with-quirks world building. From the Never Late Ferry (no schedule = never late) to the sketchy wi-fi service to the wary locals --- well, I'm a tad shy of giddy over all the eccentricities that bring touches of humour to the very real struggles facing Paul Grayson and his daughters.

And secondary character Peg Legg (yes, that's really her name! Not just pulling your leg...bwahahaha -- sorry!)  brightens every scene she's in. A plain-spoken woman with a big heart, she becomes an anchor for the newcomers who have definitely stepped out of their comfort zone. "One thing I know, you either get bitter or better by what life throws at you." (p 81) This book is full to brimming with Pegisms like that!

On a Summer Tide is told from multiple points of view -- Paul and his three daughter, Cam, Maddie and Blaine. I love the way Fisher sets the series up here, drawing readers into the heart of this complicated and somewhat dysfunctional family. And there are things I love and...don't....about each sister. Maddie in particular got my dander up and I'm looking forward to what's in store for her in the next book.

But Cam is featured in this first book and though I couldn't relate to her at first -- she's very corporate success driven and that's just not me at all! -- I loved watching her true self emerge under island magic...and the influence of a certain 'new to the island' local and one-room schoolhouse teacher extraordinaire. Loved Seth on first sight. A man of deep faith who isn't afraid to share: "We all have to let go of the need to prove ourselves. Our souls aren't a matter of commerce, we're a matter of faith." (p 219) He's the perfect foil for Cam...and a man of mystery too. I guarantee her'll surprise you!

Such an enthralling start to the Three Sisters Island series! I'm so enamoured I've been hunting online for the release info for the next book but I can't even find out the title! Sob! Hope we don't have long to wait because I'm ready for another island visit!

Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and  Graf-Martin Communications Inc.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of On a Summer Tide, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 24 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

August Giveaway - Week Three

WON BY LYDIA A.

WON BY MELANIE BACKUS

WON BY TRIXI

WON BY CARYL KANE

WON BY PAM W.

You know the drill: winners will be contacted if they left their email address. Otherwise it's up to the winner to contact me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca with your mailing address. From time to time a winner and I do not connect so I have a one month time frame on giveaway wins. If I haven't been able to reach you within 30 days of your win, it will be forfeited. This has happened a few times now so, please, DON'T BE SHY -- CONTACT ME IF YOU DIDN'T LEAVE YOUR EMAIL OR IF I HAVEN'T BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN REACHING YOU. Books will be ordered within a week of receiving your mailing address and I'll email you to confirm your win is on its way. Give it a full month before inquiring about the status of an order to allow for processing and shipping time. Thank you!

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK'S GIVEAWAYS:

I'm buried in projects -- bookish and otherwise so for the next two weeks I'll only be doing giveaways Monday - Thursday. Back to normal in September.

The Cowboy's Twin Surprise

GIVEAWAY

DEES, STEPHANIE
THE COWBOY'S TWIN SURPRISE

Can this rodeo star handle fatherhood? 
Anything can happen with Triple Creek Cowboys

Despite his too-rowdy past, former rodeo star Devin Cole's stunned when the woman he married after a whirlwind romance shows up pregnant with his twins...demanding a divorce. He convinces barrel rider Lacey Jenkins to give him six months to show he's changed. But proving he can be a champion husband and father is the hardest -- and most important -- challenge he's ever faced.

My Review:

I'm seriously close to handing in my frequent Love Inspired Reader's Card because -- gasp! -- this is only my second Stephanie Dees book and I'm still grappling with how her earlier books slipped by me ! How is that even possible? I have no words. Just head shakes.

But she bedazzled me once again with this emotional sucker-punch of a story! And, yes, let's pause for a moment to appreciate all that is sighworthy about that cover. Daddy Devin is directly responsible for my sudden onset of hero induced arrhythmia. He's a flawed man determined to make amends for his past and it's that inner core of strength that drew me in.

"My dad used to say strength doesn't come from doing what you already know you can do. Real strength comes from overcoming things you never thought you could." (p 100)

And by that definition, Devin is Hercules! Not only does he have to face the results of his failures, he has to convince his loved ones that he has changed.That he can be trusted and counted on. His brothers are wary and his wife...

Well, Lacey wants a divorce and she's willing to absolve Devin of any responsibility for their babies. Yes, plural, as in she's carrying twins. And this is where the cover is a little bit misleading because the majority of the story takes place during the pregnancy so we don't get to love on those sweeties until the very end. But we do get to swoon over a very deliberately determined husband wooing his lady love. Be still my heart! Lots of room for angst and laughter and the sweet thrill of romance.

And...woohoo...The Cowboy's Twin Surprise is the first book in the Triple Creek Cowboys series which means Devin's brothers are going to get their own stories and I can't wait for more Dees-licious romance!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a gently read copy of The Cowboy's Twin Surprise, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 17 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

Glory Road

GIVEAWAY

DENTON, LAUREN K.
GLORY ROAD

Written in Lauren Denton's signature Southern style, Glory Road tells the story of three generations of women navigating the uncertain pathways of their hearts during a summer that promises to bring change -- whether they're ready for it or not.

At thirty-eight, garden shop owner Jessie McBride thinks her chances for romance are years behind her and, after her failed marriage, she's fine with that. She lives contentedly with her unexpected arrival of two men on Glory Road make her question if she's really happy with the status quo. Handsome, wealthy Sumner Tate asks her to arrange flowers for his daughter's wedding, and Jessie finds herself drawn to his continued attention. And Ben Bradley, her lingering what-could-have-been from high school days who's known her better than anyone and whom she hasn't seen in years, moves back to the red dirt road. Jessie's mother, Gus, increasingly finds herself forgetful and faces a potentially frightening future.

Meanwhile, Jessie's fourteen-year-old daughter, Evan, is approaching the start of high school and trying to navigate a new world of identity and emotions -- particularly as they relate to the cute new guy who's moved in just down the road. At the same time, Jessie's mother, Gus, increasingly finds herself  forgetful and faces a potentially frightening future.

As all three women navigate the uncertain paths of their hearts and futures, one summer promises to change -- whether they're ready for it or not.

My Review:

I have to say I've developed an unexpected fondness for Southern style fiction and Glory Road tickled my fancy in so many ways.

First off, the unhurried approach to the storytelling made me feel like I'd wandered up onto the McBride's front porch in the middle of a gab session and was invited to sit a spell. Nothing is rushed...these Southern ladies know the power of a pregnant pause and how to measure their words for the most emphasis. And the way they can turn a phrase! "Lanky as a coat hanger!" It's like they have their own secret language, painting bold images that stir a reader's senses to the point she can visualize every scene.

And I loved the multi-generational perspectives in this novel. We get three stories, really, as we live out a summer of change in the lives of the McBride women. Three points of view, each with its own distinct flavour. Gus on the cusp of a frightening diagnosis, Jessie on the verge of discovering that love can find her the second time round and Evan so eager to leave childhood behind but not quite ready for the complications womanhood brings. Their stories are pertinent and memorable, and the way they draw strength and comfort from one another is inspiring. Relationships aren't perfect, families can be dysfunctional but home is still a place of safety and love.

I listened to the audible version and Devon O'Day's narration really enhanced my reading...er, listening...enjoyment. She captured the essence of each of the McBride women and I could hear the pleasure in her voice -- like she was just as delighted with these ladies as I was.

Please note: I have not categorized this novel as Christian Fiction even though the publisher is Thomas Nelson. It is beautifully written and definitely a clean read, but the lack of an inspirational thread was disappointing.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Glory Road, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 17 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

Seeking the Truth

GIVEAWAY

REED, TERRI
SEEKING THE TRUTH

Her investigation could prove fatal...In this exciting True Blue K-9 Unit installment

By secretly investigating the New York City K-9 Command Unit chief's murder, reporter Rachelle Clark puts a bull's eye on her back. Single dad and K-9 unit officer Carter Jameson thought Rachelle was reporting on police-field-dog trials -- not his brother's death. Though he's not happy about her true purpose, the danger is real...and he and his trusty German shepherd must save her.

My Review:

Arrrooooo! I might just have a super crush on Frosty, K-9 extraordinaire. And what a perfect name for a white German Shepherd! This guy is a multi-talented super star on the job and caring canine babysitter in his spare time. :-) That's my kind of hero!

Of course, his two-legged partner is pretty fine too. Carter's a dedicated single dad in police family royalty. I get a bit of a Bluebloods vibe from this series with the Jameson's being a multi-generational policing family. Love the way the brothers pull together and support each other -- especially the way they've helped Carter raise his motherless daughter. Young Ellie is a charmer and she has her daddy and her uncles wrapped around her little finger. There's something sooooo heartstopping about a tough protector type sitting down to a tea party, don't you think? Blissful sigh.

You'll have to forgive Carter for being a bit grouchy -- he isn't fond of reporters. Not after the sideshow they've made of his family after his brother's murder. But Rachelle is supposed to be reporting on the police-field-dog trials (which Officer Frosty excels at, of course!) only she's also been doing her own investigation into the chief's murder which infuriates Carter...and also an unknown criminal who seems to want her dead. And that's this dynamic policing duo's cue to stick close and protect.

This is the stuff page-turning dreams are made of! A real edge-of-your-seater suspense. Tons of gasp-out-loud moments as the danger escalates. And trying to figure out the whys and where-fors of the crimes and whether they are closing in on a ruthless killer...phew...the springs in my armchair sleuth's cushions got a real workout! And then there's the tentative romance that is wrong for so many reasons but also incredibly right for so many more. If only Carter and Rachelle can figure that out in time.

A breath-snatching romantic suspense fueled by action and angst.This sixth True Blue K-9 Unit novel can be enjoyed as a standalone, but readers familiar with the series will appreciate an added depth to the characters and the New York City setting. Not to mention the intricacies of K-9 policing!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a gently read copy of Seeking the Truth, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 17 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!