Like a Flower in Bloom

GIVEAWAY

MITCHELL, SIRI
LIKE A FLOWER IN BLOOM

He Stole the Work She Loved.
Will She Let Him Steal Her Heart as Well?

It's all her uncle's fault. For years Charlotte Withersby has been free to pursue her love of plants and flowers by assisting her botanist father. But now that she's reached the old age of twenty-two, an intrusive uncle has convinced her father that Charlotte's future--the only proper future for a woman--is to be a wife and mother, not a scholar.

Her father is so dependent on her assistance that Charlotte believes he'll soon change his mind...and then Edward Trimble shows up. A long-time botany correspondent in the South Pacific, Trimble arrives ready to step in as assistant so that Charlotte can step out into proper society--a world that baffles her with its unwritten rules, inexplicable expectations, and confounding fashion.

Things aren't perfectly smooth between Trimble and her father, so Charlotte hatches a last gasp plan. She'll pretend such an interest in marriage that the thought of losing her will make her father welcome her back. Only things go quickly awry, and she realizes that the one man who recognizes her intelligence is also the person she's most angry with: Edward Trimble, her supposed rival. Suddenly juggling more suitors than she knows what to do with, Charlotte is caught in a trap of her own making. Will she have no choice but to leave her beloved flowers behind?

My Review:

Oh mercy, but I've been wrestling over how to review this book because it's sooooooo good I'm sure I can't convey it in all it's wonderfulness with mere words. You need to see my grinning face and happy dancing feet and feed off my enthusiastic aura in order to get the full effect Like a Flower in Bloom had on me.

Hysterically funny. Honestly, I chortled and chuckled my way through the whole book. Sometimes I even had to stop and let loose with a hearty guffaw before I could continue reading. The dialogue is priceless. So is Charlotte and long-suffering Mr. Trimble who seem to always be talking at cross purposes.

Mitchell takes a satirical look at the oh-so-prim-and-proper Victorian era and the absurdity of their social niceties by dropping poor, hapless Charlotte into their midst. She's an intelligent woman, a scientific thinker, but might as well be in a foreign country without the benefit of knowing the language for all the ease with which she navigates the unchartered waters of high society.

Using first person narrative gives the reader the full effect of every nuance as we only see things happening from Charlotte's perspective. But we're also a bit socially wiser than the heroine so we understand the implications of a phrase or a look long before Charlotte does. Somehow that makes the read even more fun. And sometimes poignant. Because as much as this is a cunning comedic masterpiece, it is also a pointed look at what it means to appreciate yourself -- and others -- for who they are rather than what society expects them to be.

I'm positive that everyone is sure to be as enraptured with Like a Flower in Bloom as I am. It's not only one for the keeper shelf, but a book I will undoubtedly read more than once because it is just that clever.

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

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Like a Flower in Bloom please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday January 4 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Susanna's Dream

 

GIVEAWAY

PERRY, MARTA
SUSANNA'S DREAM

As young girls, three Amish sisters were separated and told nothing about each other.  When the long-held secret of their parentage came to light many years later, two of the grown women reconnected.  Now they reach out to the third…

 

Susanna Bitler’s life is in complete turmoil. Still reeling from the death of her mother, she is further disheartened when her business partner hints that she is going to quit the gift shop they run together near Pleasant Valley. But the biggest revelation is yet to come.

Grateful for their own hard-won relationship, Lydia Beachy and Chloe Wentworth are eager to reveal themselves to Susanna as her long-lost sisters.  But their news utterly distresses Susanna, who is heartbroken to learn that the woman she’s been mourning was not actually her mother.  Despite Lydia and Chloe’s best efforts to make amends, Susanna resolves to keep them at arm’s length. It may take a force of nature to sweep away her fears.  Will that storm demolish all that the three women most value…or unite them in bonds of deep and abiding affection?

My Review:

While a sequel to Lydia's Hope, this reads wonderfully well as a standalone. Perry does a fantastic job of meshing story lines from the first book with this one and a new-to-the-series reader won't have any trouble jumping right into Susanna's story. And what a story it is!

A powerful and inspiring account of sisters separated at birth finding their way to relationship in adulthood. Susanna is shocked to discover that she has two sisters. Hurt and confused that her parents kept the devastating lie right to their deaths. Still reeling from the loss of her mother, she's thrust headlong into a battery of emotional turmoil as she struggles to get her bearings. Sparring with a 'helpful' Amish widower just adds to the chaos circling around her. And then, for good measure, Perry throws in a few dire circumstances beyond anyone's control to keep this plot fast-paced and utterly captivating.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Susanna's Dream please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday January 4  2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Heart of a Soldier

GIVEAWAY

CALHOUNE, BELLE
HEART OF A SOLDIER

A Soldier's Unexpected Homecoming

Returning soldier Dylan Hart heads to Texas to finally meet pen pal Holly Lynch. When he arrives, he's shocked to discover the plucky beauty he fell in love with has kept a very big secret. Scarred emotionally by his past, Dylan is deeply hurt that Holly didn't trust him with such a vital truth about herself. When he's hired as a cowboy on her family's vast ranch, he's committed to staying in town. And as he slowly reconnects with the woman whose letters once saved him, he'll have to take a look inside his heart to discover what matters most.

My Review:

What an incredible story! Holly is a spunky heroine who has overcome so much already. Kudos to the author for not shying away from a difficult storyline. Holly has been left a paraplegic after a reckless driving accident. A little something she hasn't revealed to her soldier pen pal. Mercy, but their first meet had me in knots. I wanted to read with my eyes closed. LOL. Talk about emotionally engaging the reader from page one!

I loved the gritty honesty of this story. Nothing was sugar-coated, including Dylan's reaction when he finds out Holly's secret and then his subsequent internal wrestling over what a relationship with a paraplegic would look like.  Dylan has some gnarly back story of his own that complicates things further. But the attraction between the two won't go away and there's some wonderful deep conversations between them as well as some down right fiery ones!

A touching love story that will keep you on your toes right to the very last page. Awesome read!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Heart of a Soldier please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday January 4 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

December Giveaway - Week Five

DOUBLE WINNERS TO CELEBRATE THE

LAST GIVEAWAY OF 2014

As always, I will contact the winners by email however thanks to the nefarious ways of the Internet my email might land in your spam folder so keep your eyes peeled! :-) If you haven't heard from me by Monday evening please email me your snail mail address at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca From time to time winners and I don't seem to connect, so I have a month time frame. If I can't reach you within four weeks your win will be forfeited.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK'S GIVEAWAYS:

The Daughter of Highland Hall

 

GIVEAWAY

TURANSKY, CARRIE
THE DAUGHTER OF HIGHLAND HALL

Eighteen-year-old Katherine Ramsey travels to London with her family to make her debut into society and hopefully find her future husband. Her overbearing aunt insists she must secure a proposal from a wealthy young man who is in line to inherit his father’s title and estate. But Katherine questions her aunt’s plans when she gets to know Jonathan Foster, a handsome medical student and strong Christian who is determined to protect the poor and vulnerable in London’s East End. When a family scandal puts a damper on Katherine’s hopes for the season, she has time to volunteer with Jonathan, caring for children in one of London’s poorest areas, and romance blossoms. Katherine’s faith grows and she begins to envision a different future with Jonathan. But when Katherine’s work in the East End puts her in danger, Jonathan distances himself from Katherine to protect her. A wealthy suitor reappears, and Katherine must choose which path to follow.

My Review:

Squeeeaaalllll! I'm in a Downton Abbey tizzy! The Edwardian time period is fast becoming one of my favourites in historical romance thanks to books like this. Turansky has created a compelling read about both the upstairs and downstairs aspects of a prestigious London season. But times are changing and the lines of class distinction are beginning to blur. Lots of fodder for an angst-riddled story.

Katherine starts out being the typical London debutante with husband catching paramount in her mind. No fault of her own -- she's been raised that way and her domineering aunt is quite a force to be reckoned with. But Kate has heart and once she starts following its promptings everything changes. Cue the stalwart hero. Definitely the underdog. Initially he is disappointed in Kate's self-absorption but soon learns there's more to her than meets the eye.

Turansky delivers an incredible read -- one that is rich in both riveting story and inspirational depth. I loved every minute of this London season.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Daughter of Highland Hall please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 28 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

The Amish Bride of Ice Mountain

GIVEAWAY

LONG, KELLY
THE AMISH BRIDE OF ICE MOUNTAIN

Like most Mountain Amish girls, Mary King has always dreamed of her wedding day. But she never imagined that a sudden, irresistible kiss would result in marriage to the handsome Englischer professor studying her unique community. Or that doing the truly honorable thing means keeping their relationship chaste so both she and Dr. Jude Lyons can someday go their separate ways.

But when Mary accompanies her husband-in-name-only to Atlanta to meet his wealthy, overbearing family, she's tempted more than ever by Jude's kindness, humor--and vulnerability. And when a wrenching misunderstanding causes her to return heartbroken to her remote Appalachian home, she's certain she's lost the real love they have found...and the shared future she's come to want so much. But a crisis of more than faith will work surprising miracles--and show Mary that love is strong enough to make the impossible come true.  

My Review:

Please read the entire review before signing up for the giveaway draw as this book deals with the physical intimacies in marriage in a very frank way. See the last couple of paragraphs for my views on that.

First off, I love Kelly Long's writing. She has a wonderful gift for creating characters that matter. I was quick to relate to both Mary and Jude, eager to watch their 'arranged marriage' story develop into a forever love story.

It's a fascinating tale of two divergent worlds colliding. Mary's is faith-filled and simple while Jude is lost in cynicism and complications. And yet I could see his yearning for more depth and meaning in his life with his fascination with the Amish life style on Ice Mountain. Simplicity versus complicated merge into something both dreadful and wonderful.

Both have domineering fathers who manipulate circumstances to achieve their own desired end leaving Jude and Mary to deal with the repercussions of their fathers' manipulations. What tension! And angst! Raw emotions abound as the pair struggle to navigate the treacherous waters they've been thrown into.

And while I wouldn't classify this as Christian fiction, I will say that The Amish Bride of Ice Mountain has one of the most moving inspirational threads I've ever read. So, why don't I consider it Christian fiction? For one, the publisher is secular -- Zebra (an imprint of Kensington books). Secondly the frank exploration of sexuality, even though in marriage, definitely pushes the boundaries of  Christian publishing as we know it.

So -- about all that sexual tension....here's my take on it. First off, I should acknowledge that I've been reading Christian books exclusively for five years now. That was a deliberate choice on my part. I love having my faith encouraged through fictional characters. Those inspirational words bring a richer depth to my reading experience. I also appreciate the 'clean' read. In fact, while I have read traditional romances in the past and even tried my hand at writing them, I became increasingly disillusioned with the content of mainstream romance. In my opinion it has pushed the boundaries until there doesn't seem to be any boundaries left.

I have no problems with showing desire between characters. That attraction is God given and blessed under the right circumstances (my opinion). I've been amazed at the derogatory reviews some Christian books have received simply because a hero acknowledged a physical attraction to the heroine or vice versa. I like my romance reads to be well...romantical...but not explicit. That old Christian publishing adage about leaving the bedroom door closed seemed like a good measuring stick to me. In The Amish Bride of Ice Mountain, Kelly Long has left that door wide open -- rocking off it's hinges actually.

To be fair, I bought the book knowing that the content might be challenging. The author has posted a PG disclaimer on Amazon and upgraded it to a PG-13 in an interview on amishwisdom.com. But I also bought the book thinking it was from a Christian publisher. So --- the physical side of marriage is a major part of Jude and Mary's story. And while tastefully done -- there's no hiding that physical attraction is definitely a major plot point. I will say that at times I found the intimacy came across as the cat, "Jude" playing with the mouse, "Mary". Sometimes it seemed to impede the love story rather than enhance it. There were two scenes that I was uncomfortable reading and I think part of the problem was that Jude and Mary had become such real, living, breathing people to me that I felt like a voyeur.

This definitely isn't the right read for everyone but it is a wonderful, emotional and truly inspiring story. Only you can decide if it's the right choice for you.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Amish Bride of Ice Mountain please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 28 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Emma, Mr. Knightley and Chili-Slaw Dogs

GIVEAWAY

HATHAWAY, MARY JANE
EMMA, MR. KNIGHTLEY AND CHILI-SLAW DOGS

Caroline Ashley is a journalist on the rise at the Washington Post until the sudden death of her father brings her back to Thorny Hollow to care for her mentally fragile mother. The only respite from the eternal rotation of bridge club meetings and garden parties is her longtime friend, Brooks Elliott. A professor of journalism, Brooks is the voice of sanity and reason in the land of pink lemonade and triple layer coconut cakes. But when she meets a fascinating, charismatic young man on the cusp of a brand new industry, she ignores Brooks’ misgivings and throws herself into the project.

Brooks struggles to reconcile his parents’ very bitter marriage with his father’s devastating grief at the recent loss of his wife. Caroline is the only bright spot in the emotional wreckage of his family life. She’s a friend and he’s perfectly happy to keep her safely in that category. Marriage isn’t for men like Brooks and they both know it… until a handsome newcomer wins her heart. Brooks discovers Caroline is much more than a friend, and always has been, but is it too late to win her back?

My Review:

I'm really enjoying Hathaway's twist on Austen novels. So clever and fun. A light-hearted read with a punch of grit.

Love the dynamics between Brooks and Caroline. So comfortable with each other, anchored by years of friendship. Their rapid-fire dialogue is a treat to read, whether they are teasing or fighting. or in deep conversation about important issues. These two know each other and care deeply.  Totally understandable that neither wants to risk their friendship with romance. But once that crackle of attraction makes an appearance a new kind of tension enters their exchanges and that brings a thrilling edge to every scene. Of course I knew they would get to together by the end, but Hathaway kept me on tenterhooks trying to figure out how.

Secondary characters and subplots give added depth and a good dose of intrigue, to the story. I devoured this book in an afternoon and have already ordered Hathaway's latest release: Persuasion, Captain Wentworth and Crackling Cornbread. This series is high on my recommendation list.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Emma, Mr. Knightley and Chili-Slaw Dogs please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 28 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

December Giveaway - Week Four

As always, I will contact the winners by email however thanks to the nefarious ways of the Internet my email might land in your spam folder so keep your eyes peeled! :-) If you haven't heard from me by Monday evening please email me your snail mail address at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca From time to time winners and I don't seem to connect, so I have a month time frame. If I can't reach you within four weeks your win will be forfeited.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK'S GIVEAWAYS:

Accidental Fiancée

 

GIVEAWAY

MOORE, MARY
ACCIDENTAL FIANCEE

Necessary Nuptials 

Lady Grace Endicott never would have dreamed she'd be ruined by a rake. But after an innocent encounter with notorious scoundrel Lord Weston is misconstrued, her beloved sister's introduction to society—and her own reputation—are put at risk. The only way to avoid a scandal is a betrothal.

Brandon Roth—Lord Weston—doesn't quite know what to think of his independent fiancée…or their growing friendship. Yet their engagement ruse is quickly becoming more than a temporary fix. If he can convince Grace that his wicked ways are now far behind him, he'll be able to prove that he wants nothing more than to care for the lovely lady…

My Review:

I'm in a Regency tailspin! Toe-curling satisfaction guaranteed. Lord Weston is the quintessential Regency hero. His rakish past and sarcastic humour can't hide the real gentleman that lies within. I was intrigued after the first meet but when I reached page 139 I became completely smitten. Be. Still. My. Heart.

Grace has no intention of falling in love. She's given up on believing there's a living, breathing knight in shining armor in her future. Oh my goodness, but she is so wrong. But, beware, there is treachery afoot that complicates a smooth path towards a happily ever after and that makes for a thrilling read.

In addition, Moore has included a moving inspirational thread that flows easily throughout the story. Nothing stilted or forced. Just pure truth and the hope of grace. Beautiful tie-in to the heroine's name.

This stunning Regency romance makes for an exhilarating read.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Accidental Fiancée please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 21  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Shattered Haven

 

GIVEAWAY

POST, CAROL J.
SHATTERED HAVEN

No Safe Harbor

Allison Winchester's old Victorian house contains a valuable secret code, one that someone is dead set on uncovering. After her house is ransacked and her life is threatened, she has no choice but to accept the protection of injured ex-cop Blake Townsend. Allison never thought she'd trust a man with secrets again—and Blake is as much a mystery as the man who is stalking her. The lawman vows to shield her from the dangerous criminal. But can Blake and Allison decipher the mysterious code before their island safe haven becomes their ultimate resting place?

My Review:

A riveting suspense chalk full of intrigue and romance. This is the kind of armchair sleuth read I love. And trying to crack the secret code brought me back to my Trixie Belden days (Trixie Belden and the Mysterious Code). LOL. In fact I was feeling oh so smugly superior because I thought I'd cracked the code way before Allison and Blake. Uh...wrong!!!!! Left with egg on my face when Allison finally figures it out. Heart-stopping danger raised the gooseflesh on my arms more than a time or two as the villain grows more desperate...and reckless. Phew! Another Love Inspired Suspense novel you'll want to read in one sitting.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Shattered Haven please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 21  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Winter Brides : a Year of Weddings Novella Collection

GIVEAWAY

HUNTER, DENISE
RANEY, DEBORAH
ST. AMANT, BETSY
WINTER BRIDES : A YEAR OF WEDDINGS NOVELLA COLLECTION

Happily ever after begins today. The honor of your presence is requested at three winter weddings . . .
A December Bride by Denise Hunter
When Layla O'Reilly and Seth Murphy make their engagement public, she knows it's only to convince a major client that she's high-society enough to work for his agency. Seth has secretly loved Layla for years, but she’s never given him the time of day. For Layla, this romantic illusion is the chance to save her career. And for Seth, it's the chance to finally win her heart.

A January Bride by Deborah Raney
Novelist Madeleine Houser arranges a temporary office in a local bed and breakfast to escape the distracting renovations on her own house. Although she's never laid eyes on the inn's owner, an unlikely friendship blossoms between them as they leave daily notes for each other, and before long, Maddie finds herself falling for her mysterious host—a man likely many years her senior—and a man she's never even met.

A February Bride by Betsy St. Amant
History repeats itself when Allie Andrews escapes the church on her wedding day—wearing the same dress passed down for generations of women in her family, all women with histories of failed marriages. Allie loves Marcus but fears she's destined to repeat her family's mistakes. When thrown unexpectedly together for a wedding months later, Allie and Marcus discover their own story might be far from over.

My Review:

Sqqqquuuueaaaalllll!  I'm so excited about Zondervan releasing the A Year of Weddings novellas in print format. They were originally published as ebooks -- one novella every month for a year. I don't have an e-reader so I missed out on this incredible collection by some amazing authors. The print versions are arranged by season -- three novellas to a book and I just had to order Winter Brides as soon as I heard about it. I mean, seriously, how could I resist with these extraordinary authors?

A December Bride by Denise Hunter -- What a premise! My heart ached for poor lovelorn Seth. And he's so stoic and kind and romantic. Insert swoon here. Of course Layla is clueless and a tad bitter but inexplicably attracted to the man playing her fiancé. Toe-curling good.

A January Bride by Deborah Raney -- Really fun read. The hero and heroine don't meet right away -- the relationship develops in the form of letters and both make incorrect assumptions about the other. Their first meet is hysterical! Romance soon follows in sigh-worthy splendour.

A February Bride by Betsy St. Amant -- A runaway bride story that pulled at my heartstrings. Allie is so lost and Marcus is so wounded and they're thrown together months later. Raw emotion ensues. I ached for them both as I worked my way to their (thankfully) happily ever after.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Winter Brides please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 21  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Undercurrent

GIVEAWAY

PARKER, SARA K.
UNDERCURRENT

Trapped at Sea

In an instant Kathryn Brooks's idyllic transatlantic cruise turns to terror. It's hard to believe someone has it out for her, yet chandeliers don't explode on their own—and her best friend has gone missing. But Secret Service agent Sam West vows to protect her as every corridor poses a threat and any stranger may be an assailant. With the ship's security providing little assistance, Kathryn puts her trust in Sam. Yet losing her own life is no longer her only fear. As she and Sam strive to stay a step ahead of the enemy, Kathryn worries that by caring for Sam…she's put a target on his back, as well.

My Review:

What an awesome debut novel! Love the location -- a cruise ship really adds to the suspense...and the romance. And talk about not being able to get away from the danger! Oy! This one will keep you on tenterhooks as Kathryn and Sam try to figure out what's going on. Loved the pacing -- how both the suspense and romance steadily build to a riveting conclusion. This is a get-comfy-and-read-in-one-sitting kind of book because you won't want to stop until you figure everything out. Awesome, awesome, awesome read!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Undercurrent please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 21  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Swept Away

GIVEAWAY

HILTON, LAURA V.
LOVEN, CINDY
SWEPT AWAY

Sara Jane Morgan is trying to balance teaching with caring for her ailing, stubborn grandmother. When school lets out for the summer, the plans are for Grandma to teach Sara Jane to quilt as they finish up the Appalachian Ballad quilt Grandma started as a teenager. But things don’t always go as planned. Andrew Stevenson is hiding from his past—and his future. He works as a handyman to pay the bills, but his heart is as an artisan, designing homemade brooms. When Sara Jane’s grandmother hires him to renovate her home, sparks fly between Drew and his new employer’s granddaughter. Still, it doesn’t take Sara Jane long to see Drew isn’t what he seems. Questions arise, and she starts researching him online. What she discovers could change her life—and her heart—forever.

My Review:

Oh mercy, what a mess of a first meet! So awkward -- the hero and heroine make snap judgements about each other and that creates a gnarly mess to untangle as their relationship progresses. Sara Jane in particular struggles with Drew's presence in her grandmother's life. She has good reason, based on past experiences and her grandmother's circumstances but poor Drew doesn't know that at the beginning.

I loved Drew. Solid, patient and so kind. Tragedy has forced him to grow in his faith and it shows. He is a steadying influence for Sara Jane. More insightful when it comes to Grandma's increasingly odd behaviour. He becomes an anchor of dependability for Sara Jane has she faces an uncertain future.

A strong faith-filled thread adds an extra dimension to this tale of finding love and acceptance.

My thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group and Abingdon Press for my review copy of this book.

http://litfusegroup.com/author/HilLov

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Swept Away please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 21  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

December Giveaway - Week Three

As always, I will contact the winners by email however thanks to the nefarious ways of the Internet my email might land in your spam folder so keep your eyes peeled! :-) If you haven't heard from me by Monday evening please email me your snail mail address at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca From time to time winners and I don't seem to connect, so I have a month time frame. If I can't reach you within four weeks your win will be forfeited.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK'S GIVEAWAYS:

Burning Questions : Exploring Where the Evidence Leads

BANNISTER, ANDY
BURNING QUESTIONS : EXPLORING WHERE THE EVIDENCE LEADS

Is there a God? If so...why is there evil and suffering? Has science eliminated religion? There are thousands of different religions: which one is true? Can we the bible seriously or is it just a myth? Who was Jesus of Nazareth and does it matter?

Those are Burning Questions, the answers to which have profound implications because they effect so many other areas of life: for instance, whether or not life has meaning, purpose or hope. Yet, too often, attempts to talk about these questions is marred by a clash of fundamentalisms, by extremists (religious or secular) simply yelling or trying to outsmart each other.

Is there a better way to have discourse on these questions that really do matter? Join Dr. Andy Bannister as he tries to do just that—journeying across three countries—talking to a wide range of experts—people of all faiths and none—in search of some clarity. Whether you’re a skeptic or a seeker, a doubter or a disciple, Burning Questions will encourage you to listen well, think deeply and to follow the evidence where it leads.

 

My Review:

 

An interesting glimpse into the contrasts in some major belief systems. Watching this DVD felt like getting a glimpse at snippets of a university lecture series. There's definitely a lot of fodder for discussion in the burning questions posed. And I was captivated by the myriad of viewpoints though I don't think Dr. Bannister found the clarity he was looking for. Interestingly enough the rabbi's take on things was easiest for me to relate to (and I'm an evangelical Christian). I felt he delivered his answers with concise simplicity and without apology. He cut through all the philosophical talk and went straight for the truth every time. I appreciated his candidness. A great resource to bridge the gap in understanding between different belief systems.

DVD  has been provided courtesy of  Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

The Secret of Pembrooke Park

GIVEAWAY

KLASSEN, JULIE
THE SECRET OF PEMBROOKE PARK

Abigail Foster fears she will end up a spinster, especially as she has little dowry to improve her charms and the one man she thought might marry her--a longtime friend--has fallen for her younger, prettier sister.

When financial problems force her family to sell their London home, a strange solicitor arrives with an astounding offer: the use of a distant manor house abandoned for eighteen years. The Fosters journey to imposing Pembrooke Park and are startled to find it entombed as it was abruptly left: tea cups encrusted with dry tea, moth-eaten clothes in wardrobes, a doll's house left mid-play . . .

The handsome local curate welcomes them, but though he and his family seem to know something about the manor's past, the only information they offer Abigail is a warning: Beware trespassers who may be drawn by rumors that Pembrooke contains a secret room filled with treasure.

Hoping to improve her family's financial situation, Abigail surreptitiously searches for the hidden room, but the arrival of anonymous letters addressed to her, with clues about the room and the past, bring discoveries even more startling. As secrets come to light, will Abigail find the treasure and love she seeks...or very real danger?

My Review:

Gothic meets Regency in an spectacular tale full of intrigue and romance. Be still my heart. Klassen pulled another time travel marvel and I was all too eager to stay in western Berkshire -- especially now that the mystery is solved and all threat of danger has passed. Alas, 451 pages just wasn't enough for me and I am grieving my abrupt departure from Regency England.

Delicious from beginning to end. From thrilling descriptions to earnest dialogue to the carefully (and oh so slowly) placed clues that draw the plot together. Such twists and turns! And such a clever and complicated storyline. And the impossible romance! My heart dipped and tipped and spun out of control through the entire read. Impeccable pacing, memorable characters and words that drench a reader's senses in another place and time -- all combine to make this an indescribably good read. Mere words just don't do it justice. You must read this one for yourself.

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

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Secret of Pembrooke Park please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 14  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Masterpiece Marriage

GIVEAWAY

WELBORN, GINA
MASTERPIECE MARRIAGE

He wants to save his business. She wants to be a professor. But are they asking for more than they can really have?

After a flood damages the looms at Zenus Dane’s Philadelphia textile mill and the bank demands loan payment, Zenus turns to his aunt for help repurposing his textiles. Trouble is . . . his aunt has already been hired by the lovely yet secretive Englishwoman Mary Varrs. Eager to acquire his aunt’s quilt patterns, Zenus attends the summer Quilting Bee, a social event his aunt has uniquely designed with the secret purpose of finding Zenus a wife. However Zenus only has eyes for Mary, but Mary has no such desire for him. Though his aunt is determined to design a masterpiece marriage, both Zenus and Mary will have to overcome their stubborn ways. Can he realize that love requires stepping out of his routine? And will she recognize that following her heart doesn’t mean sacrificing her ambition?

My Review:

I have never met a hero and heroine who maintained an intense dislike for each other well into the story. Me thinks they doth protest too much. Clashes of will, strong opinions, interfering busybodies and festering hurts all contrive to make this a doomed romance. I was highly entertained by Zenus and Mary's rapid fire dialogue -- even more so by their reluctantly growing admiration for each other as evidenced in their private thoughts. A fun read that highlights the rocky road to romance.

My thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group and Abingdon Press for sending me a review copy of this book.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Masterpiece Marriage please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 14  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

A Most Inconvenient Marriage

GIVEAWAY

JENNINGS, REGINA
A MOST INCONVENIENT MARRIAGE

A Marriage of Convenience Turns Most Inconvenient in this Historical Charmer

Having fled a difficult home life, Civil War nurse Abigail Stuart feels like her only friend in the world is sweet but gravely wounded patient Jeremiah Calhoun. Fearing he won't survive, the Confederate soldier's last wish is that Abigail look after his sickly sister at home. Marry him, return to his horse farm, and it'll be hers.

Left with few choices, Abigail takes him up on his offer and moves to Missouri after his death, but just as the family learns to accept her, the real Jeremiah Calhoun appears--puzzled to find a confounding woman posing as his wife. Jeremiah is determined to have his life back to how it was before the war, but his own wounds limit what he can do on his own. Still not fully convinced Abigail isn't duping him, he's left with no choice but to let the woman stay and help--not admitting to himself she may provide the healing his entire family needs.

My Review:

I didn't know it was possible to swoon while convulsing with laughter until I read A Most Inconvenient Marriage! What an incredible mix of gripping emotion and light-hearted humour. I was in a tizzy of ecstasy the whole read!

Jeremiah is exasperating in his cluelessness when it comes to women and that makes him endearing in an irritating sort of way. LOL And Abigail is pure stubbornness -- so determined to do it all alone. What an ill-fated pair, especially when you take into account the unusual circumstances that bring them together. Add in the complications and dangers of the post-civil war South and a host of engaging secondary characters and you get a story as thought-provoking and inspiring as it is entertaining.

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

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of A Most Inconvenient Marriage please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 14  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Love Unexpected

GIVEAWAY

HEDLUND, JODY
LOVE UNEXPECTED

1859
Presque Isle, Michigan

What Is the Secret That Could Shipwreck Both of Their Lives?

All Emma Chambers ever wanted was a home, but when her steamboat sinks just outside Presque Isle, she’s left destitute and with no place to stay.

An unlikely solution arises when the lighthouse keeper arrives in town. He’s just lost his wife and is having a difficult time caring for his child. So a traveling preacher gets the idea that the keeper and Emma might be the answer to each other’s dilemma. After a hasty marriage, she finds herself heading to the lighthouse with this handsome but quiet stranger. Nothing in her aimless life, though, has prepared her for parenting a rambunctious toddler, as well as managing a household.

Emma soon suspects Patrick may be hiding something from her, and then she hears a disturbing rumor about the circumstances surrounding his late wife’s death. It seems as if her wish for a home and family of her own could end up leading her once more into turbulent waters.

My Review:

Pirates on the Great Lakes? Who knew? Jody Hedlund, that's who! What a fantastic twist to an already riveting plot! And I've loved lighthouses and the notion of lighthouse keeping since reading Meg and the Lighthouse Mystery when I was a kid so this book captivated me on so many levels.

Lighthouses aside, this marriage of convenience story is rich and complex and utterly compelling. I was quickly caught up in the drama right from Emma and Patrick's first meet and then their hasty marriage. And if that isn't a complicated enough way to start a life together, the author adds in desperate secrets and roaming pirates for good measure.

And that left me compulsively reading late into the night even though I knew the gnarly bits were coming up in spades. I was about jumping out of my skin because I wanted to get past them and to the good, happily-ever-after part but I couldn't bring myself to skim because every word was precious. Sigh. That meant I would be in a gnarly mess of emotions by the end but there was nothing for it but to soldier on and savor every one of those words because the combined effect was all so sublime.

A soul-stirring romance with a moving inspirational thread about forgiveness and acceptance. Definitely not one to be missed.

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

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Love Unexpected please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 14  2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

December Giveaway - Week One

As always, I will contact the winners by email however thanks to the nefarious ways of the Internet my email might land in your spam folder so keep your eyes peeled! :-) If you haven't heard from me by Monday evening please email me your snail mail address at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca From time to time winners and I don't seem to connect, so I have a month time frame. If I can't reach you within four weeks your win will be forfeited.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT WEEK'S GIVEAWAYS: