Veil of Winter

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE

VEIL OF WINTER

She's hounded from every side by treacherous elements and foes, but her greatest enemy lies within.

In the mountains near France, the medieval Princess Elyce is being forced to marry, thus forming an alliance that will enrich her father but enslave her kingdom. Instead, she chooses to feign her death and flee to Prague to beg King Wenceslaus to help save her people.

In England, the young knight Sir Gerard has a vision from God instructing him to help Elyce on her quest. When he arrives to find she has been near death for days, he manages to revive her. However, thinking the stranger was trying to kiss her, the princess immediately distrusts him. But her desperate situation forces her to accept his aid.

Pursued by her enemy's guards over mountainous terrain, they must also battle the deadly winter elements. Her greatest challenge may be to overcome the voices of disapproval and accusation from her childhood. Will her emotions lead her into her true identity, or will they undermine her ability to work with Gerard and to save her people, who desperately need her help?

In this dazzling and romantic story, New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson takes the classic Sleeping Beauty fairy tale to satisfying new heights.

My Review:

A fun fairy tale retelling where the villains are the vilest and the hero the noblest and the heroine? Well, she's driven by demons from her past but led by a pure heart and the desire to provide the best for her people. It all makes for an enchanting mix of action, adventure, danger and intrigue. And romance, of course, because every good fairy tale needs a happily ever after ending.

Enjoyed Dickerson's take on the Sleeping Beauty angle, and how that becomes the pivotal springboard for the rest of the tale. That 'almost kiss' happens very early on in the story and provides a rocky start to Gerard and Elyce's relationship. A nice upside down twist to the classic tale. 

I enjoyed listening to Julie Mason's audio book narration courtesy of my library's Libby collection. She amplified my enjoyment of this read by bringing these characters and their story to life.

Goal Update: #7 Start new-to-me-series, #9 Read outside my comfort zone (YA)

 GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a print or ebook copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  Veil of Winter 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 October 22 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

The Warrior Maiden

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE WARRIOR MAIDEN

She knows women are expected to marry, cook, and have children. Not go to war. Can she manage to stay alive, save her mother, and keep the handsome son of a Duke from discovering her secret?

When Mulan takes her father's place in battle against the besieging Teutonic Knights, she realizes she has been preparing for this journey her whole life -- and that her life and her mother's, depends on her success. As the adopted daughter of poor parents, Mulan has little power in the world. If she can't prove herself on the battlefield, she could face death -- or, perhaps worse, marriage to the village butcher.

Disguised as a young man, Mulan meets the German duke's son, Wolfgang, who is determined to save his people even if it means fighting against his own brother. Wolfgang is exasperated by the new soldier who seems to be one step away from disaster at all times -- or showing him up in embarrassing ways. From their rivals to reluctant friends, Mulan and Wolfgang begin to share secrets.

But war is an uncertain time and dreams can die as quickly as quickly as they are born. When Mulan receives word of danger back home, she must make the ultimate choice. Can she be the son her bitter father never had? Or will she become the strong young woman she was created to be?

This fresh reimagining of the classic tale takes us to fifteenth century Lithuania where both love and war challenge the strongest of heart.

My Review:

Dickerson is back with another fabulous fairy tale retelling for the teen market (or for the young-at-heart YA fiction fan, regardless of a reader's actual age.) This time with an ingenious twist to the legend of Mulan. This feisty heroine is equal parts womanly compassion and warrior courage. There's lots of battle scenes in this action-filled story and Mulan is at the heart of most ot them. As is Wolfgang and I have to say it makes for an interesting romance when the hero and heroine bond over archery and sword fighting! lol Dickerson has kept many of the traditional elements from this Chinese legend while spinning her trademark Medieval European flare. A satisfying page-turner.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Warrior Maiden, 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 June 29 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

The Orphan's Wish

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE ORPHAN'S WISH

Orphaned and alone, Aladdin travels from the streets of his Arab homeland to a strange, faraway place. Growing up in an orphanage, he meets young Lady Kirstyn, whose father is the powerful Duke of Hagenheim. Despite the difference in their stations, Aladdin quickly becomes Kirstyn's favorite companion, and their childhood friendship grows into a bond that time and opposition cannot break.

Even as a child, Aladdin works hard, learning all he can from his teachers. Through his integrity, intelligence, and sheer tenacity, he earns a position serving as the duke's steward. But that isn't enough to erase the shame of being forced to steal as a small child -- or the fact that he's an orphan with no status. If he ever wants to feel equal to his beautiful and generous friend, Kirstyn, he must leave Hagenheim and seek his fortune.

Yet once Aladdin departs, Lady Kirstyn becomes a pawn in a terrible plot. Now, Aladdin and Kirstyn must rely on their bond to save her from unexpected danger. But will saving Kirstyn cost Aladdin his newfound status and everything he's worked so hard to obtain?

An enchanting new version of the well-know tale, The Orphan's Wish tells a story of courage and loyalty, friendship and love, and reminds us wat 'family' really means.

My Review:

Only Melanie Dickerson could bring Aladdin to Medieval Germany and pull it off! Love the diverse aspect of an Arabian hero. Orphaned at a young age, Aladdin is rescued from a life of thieving and brought to a kingdom...er dukedom...that Dickerson fans are very familiar with. Love that the author included childhood details in this retelling and we get to watch both Aladdin and Kirstyn grow up -- and into deep friendship -- at the beginning of the story. And then, as in all good fairy tales, danger and mayhem threaten a budding romance as a nefarious villain seeks misguided vengeance.

The perfect summer read for the Young Adult in your life -- or the young-at-heart reader who still gets a kick out of YA literature (waves hand in the air enthusiastically.)

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Orphan's Wish, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add your email to a 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 Sunday July 22 2108. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

The Noble Servant

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE NOBLE SERVANT

She lost everything to the scheme of an evil servant. but she might just gain what she'a always wanted...if she makes it in time.

The impossible was happening. She, Lady Magdalen of Mullin, was to marry the Duke of Wolfberg. Magdalen had dreamed about receiving a proposal ever since she met the duke two years ago. Such a marriage was the only way she could save her people from starvation. But why would a handsome, wealthy duke want to marry her, a poor baron's daughter? It seemed too good to be true.

On the journey to Wolfberg Castle, Magdalen's servant forces her to trade places and become her servant, threatening not only Magdalen's life but the lives of those she holds dear. Stripped of her identity and title in Wolfberg, where no one knows her, Magdalen is sentenced to tend geese while she watches her former handmaiden gain all she ever dreamed of.

When a handsome shepherd befriends her, Magdalen begins to suspect he carries secrets of his own. Together, Magdalen and the shepherd uncover a sinister plot against Wolfberg and the duke. But with no resources, will they be able to find the answers, the hiding places, and the forces need in time to save both Mallin and Wolfberg?

My Review:

A clever take on Grimm's beloved Goose Girl fairy tale. I adore these retellings by Melanie Dickerson, because she is able to create the very essence of what I imagine Medieval life  to be like. It's in the flow of her words through descriptions and dialogue which propel me into the magical realms of my childhood imaginings.

But she brings dimension to her heroes and heroines. Yes, Steffan is the classic fairy tale hero -- all noble and honorable and knight in shining armorish BUT he doesn't always get it right. In particular when it comes to trusting Magdalen and that causes him to act selfishly at times. Maggie's good for him -- she captures his heart -- something he is very reluctant to part with -- and in the process teaches him a thing or two about faith and trust. They make an intrepid team when they are on the same page! But like all good stories this hero and heroine don't always act exactly as the anxious reader would like, which, of course, makes for a riveting read.

There's treachery afoot, a diabolical villain to thwart and danger lurking around unexpected corners.All the delicious stuff fairy tales are made of -- including the prescribed happily ever after!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Noble Servant, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you leave your email in a 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 easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday September 3 2017. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

A Viscount's Proposal

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
A VISCOUNT'S PROPOSAL

In Regency England appearances can be deceiving

Leorah Langdon has no patience for Regency's society's shallow hypocrisy and unnecessary rules, especially for women. She's determined to defy convention by marrying for grand passion instead of settling for a loveless union like her parents - or wedding a stuffy, pompous gentleman like Edward, the Viscount Withinghall. But when a chance meeting in the countryside leads to Leorah and Withinghall being discovered in an overturned carriage -- alone and after dark -- the ensuing gossip may force them together.

Withinghall has his reasons for clinging to propriety; his father perished in a duel with his mistress's husband, and Edward must avoid scandal if he wants to become prime minister. He certainly has no time for a reckless hoyden like Miss Langdon. But soon the two discover that Withinghall's coach accident was no such thing: the vehicle was sabotaged.

Can the culprit be brought to justice? Strong-willed Leora and duty-driven Withinghall will have to work together if they have any hope of saving their reputation, his political career -- and his life.

My Review:

Euphoric Regency Alert!!!!!! A Viscount's Proposal is a dreamy example of this classic genre. I was squirming with delight all the way through. The dialogue is exquisite!!! Opinionated, forthright Leorah is more than an equal match for her austere Viscount. Only she doesn't consider him 'hers'. Doesn't think he's much good for anything but the occasional verbal sparring match. Honestly I swooned over the banter. The way they managed to deliver a pointed 'blow' while talking oh-so-politely during social conversations. I'm having delicious heart palpitations just thinking about it. :-)

Edward (I know, how commonly low of me to refer to him by his first name when we haven't been properly introduced...oh, scratch that, I think we'd have to be engaged before I could call him Edward...married for twenty years before I could get away with calling him Teddy!) But that's what he reminds me of -- a disgruntled teddy bear. That's not apparent at first -- he's all rigid rules and regulation and judgementally Mr. Darcyish. But Leorah makes an impact for good on this straight-laced aristocrat and eventually we get to see the soft stuffing encased in all that steel. Definitely teddy bear fodder. :-)

As you can tell from this review, I've completely lost my mind over this delightful Regency romance. Everyone must read it just so we can revive the art of polite conversation! But you must definitely read it if you are a fan of this genre and enjoy a hint of suspense on the side. Unforgettably good.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of A Viscount's Proposal, leave a comment below ore email me at kavouvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add your email in your comment, make sure 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 easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday July 30 2017. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

The Silent Songbird

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE SILENT SONGBIRD

Evangeline is gifted with a heavenly voice, but she is trapped in a sinister betrothal until she embarks on a daring escape and meets brave Westley le Wyse. Can he help her discover the freedom to sing again?

Desperate to flee a political marriage to her cousin King Richard II's closest advisor, Lord Shiveley -- a man twice her age with shadowy motives -- Evangeline runs away and joins a small band of servants journeying back to Glynval, their home village.

Pretending to be mute, she gets to know Westley le Wyse, their handsome young leader, who is intrigued by the beautiful servant girl. But when the truth comes out, it may shatter any hope that love could grown between them.

More than Evangeline's future is at stake as she finds herself entangled in a web of intrigue that threatens England's monarchy. Should she give herself up to protect the only person who cares for her? If she does, who will save the king from a plot to steal his throne?

My Review:

I adore Melanie Dickerson's fairy tale inspired stories and this time it's The Little Mermaid -- though I see shades of The Nightingale as well. There's political intrigue, forbidden romance between a spunky heroine and a dashing hero and plenty of twists and turns to keep the most avid of readers frantically turning pages.

Evangeline is a born dreamer and she longs to experience life outside the sheltered confines of the castle walls. Definitely not the type of girl to be content with an arranged political marriage -- no matter who orders it -- so she gives her dreams flight when she flees the castle and attempts to hide herself among the peasants of Glynval. There's some really funny scenes as she tries to live the life of a working lass. I have to admire her gumption though and she never quits, even when she becomes the target of a malicious bully.

Westley is the proverbial fairy tale hero. Noble and kind and fair to a fault. It isn't long before he is captivated by the stranger in their midst. But this isn't a straightforward love story. Not when deception severs trust. The angst kept me on the edge of my seat as I waited to find out if these two would ever find their way to a happily ever after.

Lots of action and laughter and sweet romance make this another winning historical novel from a beloved author.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

 If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of  The Silent Songbird 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 8 2017. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

The Beautiful Pretender

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE BEAUTIFUL PRETENDER

After inheriting his title from his brother, the margrave has two weeks to find a noble bride. What will happen when he learns he has fallen for a lovely servant girl in disguise?

The Margrave of Thornbeck has to find a bride, fast. He invites ten noble born ladies who meet the king's approval to be his guests at Thornbeck Castle for two weeks, a time to test these ladies and reveal their true character.

Avelina has only two instructions: keep her true identity a secret and make sure the margrave doesn't select her as his bride. Since the latter seems unlikely, she concentrates on not getting caught. No one must know she is merely a maidservant, sent by the Earl of Plimmwald to stand in for his daughter, Dorothea.

Despite Avelina's best attempts at diverting attention from herself, the margrave has taken notice. And try as she might, she can't deny her own growing feelings. But something else is afoot in the castle. Something sinister that could have far worse -- far deadlier -- consequences.

My Review:

Beauty and the Beast meets The Bachelor -- let the games begin!

Melanie Dickerson has such a talent for tweaking well-loved fairy tales into something fresh and new. I was thrilled to return to Thornbeck and become reacquainted with some favourite characters -- people I met in The Huntress of Thornbeck. If you've read that book you'll be happy to know that Odette and Jorgen play a significant role in this story. Don't worry if you haven't read the first book in The Medieval Fairy Tale Novels series though, The Beautiful Pretender reads wonderfully as a standalone as well.

There something so captivating about a 'beastly' hero. Reinhart may be a bit of a grumpy recluse but you can be sure there's a tender heart beating within that manly chest. It just takes a certain heroine to bring his softer side out into the open.

Avelina is boldly outspoken, endearingly kind and a little too attracted to the margrave for her own good. It seems the harder she tries to divert his attention, the more captivated Reinhart becomes. Oh what a tangled web we weave...

There's tension and drama and sweet romance. Diabolical villains to subdue and a forest of bloodthirsty wolves to best. Not to mention a treacherous plot to thwart before these two have a hope of a happily ever after. A delectable read from beginning to end.

My thanks to Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publicity Group for providing me with a copy of this book.

http://litfusegroup.com/author/mdickerson

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of  The Beautiful Pretender 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 May 22 2016. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

The author and publisher are holding their own giveaway -- check out the link below to enter.



Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on June 7th. The winner will be announced June 8th on Melanie's blog.

A Spy's Devotion

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
A SPY'S DEVOTION

In England’s Regency era, manners and elegance reign in public life—but behind closed doors treason and tawdriness thrive. Nicholas Langdon is no stranger to reserved civility or bloody barbarity. After suffering a battlefield injury, the wealthy, well-connected British officer returns home to heal—and to fulfill a dying soldier’s last wish by delivering his coded diary.

At the home of the Wilherns, one of England’s most powerful families, Langdon attends a lavish ball where he meets their beautiful and intelligent ward, Julia Grey. Determined to maintain propriety, he keeps his distance—until the diary is stolen and all clues lead to Julia’s guardian. As Langdon traces an evil plot that could be the nation’s undoing, he grows ever more intrigued by the lovely young woman. And when Julia realizes that England—and the man she is falling in love with—need her help, she finds herself caught in the fray. Will the two succumb to their attraction while fighting to save their country?

My Review:

Squeeeallll!!!! My Regency fan-girling heart is still in palpitations after reading this amazing story. And -- yay-- it's the first in a The Regency Spies of London series. I've been a fan of Melanie Dickerson's fairy tale retellings since reading The Healer's Apprentice but I admit to being positively giddy over her venture into Regency romance. And not just ordinary Regency romance, but one laced with intrigue.

I do so love a good spy story. The kind with a plucky heroine and a stoic wounded soldier -- both determined to save their country from the evil that lurks within. Add into the mix Julia's precarious circumstances and  Nicholas's desire to avoid romantic entanglements and this becomes a page-turner of a read.

Dickerson has captured the ambiance of the Regency era. It's in the drawing room dialogue and endless society rules of decorum. And the balls! The touch of a gloved hand at the beginning of a dance, the slanted glance across the room,  the whispered breath when the dancers draw close....sigh, I'm in full swoon mode.

But I can't stay in a puddle for long because a treasonous plan is afoot and dastardly traitors to expose. Not to mention the sweet stirrings of a romance to salvage. A perfect blend that held me captive and left me yearning for more.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of  A Spy's Devotion 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 April  10 2016. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

The Golden Braid

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE GOLDEN BRAID

The one who needs rescuing isn't always the one in the tower...

Rapunzel can throw a knife better than any man. She paints beautiful flowering vines on the walls of her plaster houses. She sings so sweetly she can coax even a beast to sleep. But there are two things she is afraid her mother might never allow her to do: learn to read and marry.

Fiercely devoted to Rapunzel, her mother is suspicious of every man who so much as looks at her daughter and warns her that no man can be trusted. After a young village farmer asks for Rapunzel's hand in marriage, Mother decides to move them once again---this time, to the large city of Hagenheim.

The journey proves treacherous, and after being rescued by a knight---Sir Gerek---Rapunzel, in turn, rescues him farther down the road. As a result, Sir Gerek agrees to repay his debt to Rapunzel by teaching her to read. Could there be more to him than his arrogance and desire to marry for riches and position?

As Rapunzel acclimates to life in a new city, she uncovers a mystery that will forever change her life. In this Rapunzel story unlike any other, a world of secrets and treachery are about to be revealed after seventeen years. How will Rapunzel finally take control of her own destiny? And who will prove faithful to a lowly peasant girl with no one to turn to?

My Review:

I can't begin to convey how much I love Melanie Dickerson's fairy tale retellings. She can't write them fast enough for me! The Golden Braid is a fantastic addition to her impressive collection. Rapunzel was one of my favourite fairy tales as a kid and I have read a number of fairy tale  retellings, but never one with Rapunzel as the theme. So there I was -- squealing in delight all the way through! Kinda embarrassing, but at least I read it at home so no one witnessed my fan-girling moments, except maybe the mice lurking in the walls. :-)

Dickerson keeps her reader riveted while weaving a familiar but not-so-familiar tale. She's done a marvellous job with the key points of this particular fairy tale, Cleverly twisting classic elements into her own gripping tale of love and betrayal and that all important happily ever after. She kept me on my toes right to the end though.

Oh -- and about that ending. There's a point where this book meshes with scenes from The Princess Spy. It took me a page or two to adjust. I was like, "Wait, I've read this before...no I haven't...um, yeah...but not exactly." So much fun -- the author has added additional layers to the original scenes from a whole new perspective. That was one of my major fan-girling moments. Loved the crisscross connection. No worries if you haven't read The Princess Spy (though why ever not, I ask with a scowl aimed directly at you) those scenes will make total sense to a new reader. Dickerson veterans will just get an extra kick of book-happy while reading them.

Also loved the way the inspirational thread is seamlessly woven into the very fibre of this tale. The Golden Braid checks all the boxes: Adventure. Romance. Inspirational. Angst. Humour. A lovely mix that's sure to leave you basking in the glow of a stellar happily ever after.

Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group and Thomas Nelson for providing me with a review copy of this book.

http://litfusegroup.com/author/mdickerson

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of  The Golden Braid 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 November 29 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE HUNTRESS OF THORNBECK FOREST

"Swan Lake" meets Robin Hood when the beautiful daughter of a wealthy merchant by day becomes the region's most notorious poacher by night, and falls in love with the forester.

Jorgen is the forester for the wealthy margrave, and must find and capture the poacher who has been killing and stealing the margrave's game. When he meets the lovely and refined Odette at the festival and shares a connection during a dance, he has no idea she is the one who has been poaching the margrave's game.

Odette justifies her crime of poaching because she thinks the game is going to feed the poor, who are all but starving, both in the city and just outside its walls. But will the discovery of a local poaching ring reveal a terrible secret? Has the meat she thought she was providing for the poor actually been sold on the black market, profiting no one except the ring of black market sellers?

The one person Odette knows can help her could also find out her own secret and turn her over to the margrave, but she has no choice. Jorgen and Odette will band together to stop the dangerous poaching ring . . . and fall in love. But what will the margrave do when he discovers his forester is protecting a notorious poacher?

My Review:

What a captivating read! Dickerson has a way with words that makes me feel like I've careened back in time to a fairy tale land where swoonworthy heroes are no match for their cunning heroines and where good and evil are in a constant battle. I love that she's started this new fairy tale series for adults! I've never grown out of my love for the genre and fairy tale retellings are among my favourite reads.

The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest has all the essential ingredients of a beloved classical tale. A hero with an impossible task, a heroine who might just need rescuing (though she's pretty spunky!), plenty of subterfuge, a nefarious villain and, of course, the ultimate triumph of good over evil. But that doesn`t mean this read is predictable. It`s anything but! In fact, I got to a point where I couldn`t turn the pages fast enough in my desperate bid to find out what happened next. And through it all, the author maintains the cadence of storytelling from days of yore.  Simply put: the kind of read that makes your heart happy.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest 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 June 21 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Princess Spy

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
PRINCESS SPY

Margaretha has always been a romantic, and hopes her newest suitor, Lord Claybrook, is destined to be her one true love. But then an injured man is brought to Hagenheim Castle, claiming to be an English lord who was attacked by Claybrook and left for dead. And only Margaretha-one of the few who speaks his language-understands the wild story. Margaretha finds herself unable to pass Colin's message along to her father, the duke, and convinces herself "Lord Colin" is just an addled stranger. Then Colin retrieves an heirloom she lost in a well, and asks her to spy on Claybrook as repayment. Margaretha knows she could never be a spy-not only is she unable to keep anything secret, she's sure Colin is completely wrong about her potential betrothed. Though when Margaretha overhears Claybrook one day, she discovers her romantic notions may have been clouding her judgment about not only Colin but Claybrook as well. It is up to her to save her father and Hagenheim itself from Claybrook's wicked plot.

My Review:

First, let's just bask in the glory of that striking cover. That dress is gorgeous -- can't you just feel the silky softness of the fabric? What a wonderful advertisement for the lushest of stories inside.

Dickerson has woven her magic into another splendid fairy tale retelling. This time she adds her own unique twist to The Frog Prince. There are some very clever nods to the original tale along with truly dastardly villains and hopeless treachery and a heroine who needs rescuing...or wait, is that the hero who needs rescuing? Love how Margaretha can hold her own in the midst of diabolical plots. This princess certainly isn't faint of heart!

A brilliant fairy tale rendering with lots of action and romance.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Princess Spy 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 November 23 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Captive Maiden

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
CAPTIVE MAIDEN

Happily ever after...or happily nevermore?

Gisela's childhood was filled with laughter and visits from nobles such as the duke and his young son. But since her father's death, each day has been filled with nothing but servitude to her stepmother. So when Gisela meets the duke's son, Valten -- the boy she has daydreamed about for years -- and learns he is throwing a ball, she vows to attend, even if it's only for a taste of a life she'll never have. To her surprise, she catches Valten's eye. Though he is rough around the edges, Gisela finds that Valten has completely captured her heart. But other forces are bent on keeping the two from falling further in love, putting Gisela in more danger than she ever imagined.

My Review:

I just can't get enough well-written fairy tale retellings and I'm thrilled that Melanie Dickerson has introduced this genre to the Christian market.  Familiar elements of the classic Cinderella story take on a new twist in this historical romance. I love how Dickerson blends traditional with 'new' and I enjoyed picking out common threads as I read along.

Gisela is an intriguing heroine...she is both vulnerable and defiant and desperate to break free from her stepmother's cruel deceptions. Enter one night in shining armour by the name of Valten. Dickerson fans will recognize him as the 'perfect' older brother of Gabe, hero in The Fairest Beauty. No worries though, Captive Maiden reads as a perfect standalone...this isn't a series in the true sense of the word.  In fact the title is perfect because this book is guaranteed to hold you captive until you reach the end!

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Captive Maiden, 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 . to protect yourself from spammers. If you email me, please be sure to put the title in the subject line so it is easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday January 19 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck.

The Fairest Beauty

GIVEAWAY

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE FAIREST BEAUTY

In this young adult fairy tale retelling by Melanie Dickerson, a woman arrives in Hagenheim claiming the young woman betrothed to the duke’s son, Valten, is still alive. With Valten injured, his younger brother, Gabe, defies his family to find Sophie himself. When Gabe arrives at the castle, Sophie must make a choice: go to the Cottage of the Seven and fend for herself, or trust the handsome stranger who seems ready to do anything to keep her safe.

My Review:

Take a moment to pause and drink in that beautiful cover. Does the book match that outer glow? You betcha! I love fairy tale retellings. There's something so thrilling about knowing the bones of the story while being surprised (and delighted) at the way the author fleshes it out. Dickerson is an expert as this is her third book. If you want to be swept away by a fantastical love story anchored in faith, then this the book for you.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Fairest Beauty, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email, 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 February 10 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

The Merchant's Daughter

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE MERCHANT'S DAUGHTER

An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice. Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past. Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.


My Review:

Delightful. I love this genre and Melanie Dickerson is proving to excel at it. She has taken the bare bones of a popular fairy tale and fleshed it out into a satisfying read of substance. Loved the subtle little details that reminded me of the original story. I got such a thrill over spotting them and making the parallels. But Dickerson has created a memorable romance of her own, complete with tortured hero and desperate heroine. I love how she draws them together; the gentle way that Annabel comes to tame her 'beast'. A lovely tale that deserves to be read and cherished by teens and adults alike.
 

Giveaway Opportunity:

 

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson leave a comment below. Or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. Please remember to put the title in your subject line so your entry is easier for me to spot. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 18.Good luck!

The Healer's Apprentice

DICKERSON, MELANIE
THE HEALER'S APPRENTICE

Rose has been appointed as a healer's apprentice at Hagenheim Castle, a rare opportunity for a woodcutter's daughter like her. While she often feels uneasy at the sight of blood, Rose is determined to prove herself capable. Failure will mean returning home to marry the aging bachelor her mother has chosen for her -- a bloated, disgusting merchant who makes Rose feel ill.

When Lord Hamlin, the future duke, is injured, it is Rose who must tend to him. As she works to heal his wound, she begins to understand emotions she's never felt before and wonders if he feels the same. But falling in love is forbidden, as Lord Hamlin is betrothed to a mysterious young woman in hiding. As Rose's life spins toward confusion, she must take the first steps on a journey to discover her own destiny.

I HAVE BEEN ANXIOUSLY (AND IMPATIENTLY) WAITING FOR THIS BOOK TO COME OUT FOR MONTHS! I HAVE A REAL PASSION FOR FAIRY TALE ADAPTATIONS AND HAVE NEVER READ A CHRISTIAN ONE. MELANIE'S DEBUT IS A STUNNING RENDITION OF SLEEPING BEAUTY.

THERE ARE SO MANY LAYERS TO THIS STORY AND TONS OF DISCUSSION OPPORTUNITIES FOR BOOK CLUB CHATS. IT IS CLASSIFIED AS A YOUNG ADULT NOVEL, BUT ANYONE WHO LOVES A FAIRY TALE ROMANCE WILL WANT TO DELVE INTO THE PAGES OF THE HEALER'S APPRENTICE. AND THIS WOULD BE A GREAT PICK FOR A MOTHER/DAUGHTER BOOK CLUB FOR MOMS AND THEIR TEENS.

RICH WITH DESCRIPTION, DICKERSON'S WORDS FLOW, CREATING A TANGIBLE WORLD THAT COMES ALIVE IN THE PAGES OF HER BOOK. AND THE CHARACTERS ARE EXCEPTIONALLY CRAFTED. THE HEROINE AND THE HERO BOTH HAVE NOBLE QUALITIES, BUT DICKERSON HAS DOUSED THEM WITH ENOUGH QUIRKS AND FAILINGS TO MAKE THEM REAL AND THEIR STRUGGLES BELIEVABLE.

THIS IS THE KIND OF BOOK YOU CAN LOSE YOURSELF IN. THE KIND OF BOOK YOU WANT TO READ ALOUD JUST TO HEAR THE FINELY-CRAFTED WORDS. IT'S THE KIND OF BOOK THAT UPLIFTS AND ENTERTAINS AND IS DEFINITELY THE KIND OF BOOK THAT SHOULD FIND IT'S WAY ONTO EVERY LIBRARY SHELF.

A HEALER'S APPRENTICE IS A BRILLIANT DEBUT NOVEL.