Make You Feel My Love

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE

MAKE YOU FEEL MY LOVE

A century apart, two women start new lives -- and two unlikely love stories prove powerful enough to conquer fear.

In 1895, Cora Anderson jumps on a cross-country train to escape New York society and her domineering father. She leaves with only some spare clothing, jewelry that once belonged to her grandmother, her cherished violin, and hopes for an uncertain future. The tiny town of Chickadee Creek is idyllic and welcoming, but it's only a matter of time before Cora's new friends discover the secrets of her past.

More than a hundred years later, Chelsea Spencer is fleeing a dangerous situation of her own when her great-aunt's antique shop in Chickadee Creek becomes the perfect haven. At the same time, up-and-coming Hollywood star Liam Chandler has returned to the town of his ancestors to grieve some painful family losses and ponder the direction of his career.

When Chelsea discovers a beautiful violin among her aunt's antiques, she begins to wonder about its origins. In this heartwarming Idaho town, one precious instrument will connect Liam and Chelsea to each other and to love long forgotten. There, the captivating history tells them the stories of how to walk by faith and live in God's perfect freedom.

My Review:

There's something so comforting about slipping into a well-loved author's book. Even though the characters and setting may be different, there's still a sense of homecoming. That's the way I feel about Robin Lee Hatcher's stories. There's familiarity in the storytelling style and the blessed predictability of a well executed inspirational thread. I know I'm going to be entertained and uplifted and come away a little heart-and-soul smarter. Happy, happy sigh. So I entered this read with an anticipatory thrill that still hasn't faded.

Dual timeline heaven. 

Two heroines at crossroads, striving to find a place of security and peace. A place to grow into the kind of women God wants them to be. And their heroes -- successful, driven men who are rooted in their faith. 

I especially loved the way Liam (present day hero) was so deliberate about waiting on God's direction in some really important areas of his life despite outside pressures that tried to force him into making decisions he wasn't ready to make. 

And the way the author brings these two timelines together into a thrilling connection wrapped the story up in a page-turning frenzy of delight. 

Oh -- and honorable mentions to Chipper, rescue dog hero who deserves all kinds of accolades and a life time's worth of tasty treats. :-)

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

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

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Make You Feel My Love, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. 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 Saturday October 9 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

How Sweet It Is

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE

HOW SWEET IT IS

He lost his brother. She lost her dream. Together, they might find what they're really looking for.

Holly Stanford is doing the best she can with the restaurant she inherited from her late uncle. But after her fiance abandons her and the business, Holly regrets having given up her dream of becoming a pstry chef. Now a few bad financial decisions might cost her everything including her hopes for the future.

Jed Henning has done well with his new company despite his prodigal brother's behavior. When Jed's father, the controlling member of the board of drectors, temporarily suspends operations until his sons work out their differences, Jed resentfully chases his brother, Chris, to Boise. There Jed rents a basement apartment from Holly and hopes to convince Chris to get his act together before their company collapses.

Unaware that Holly is the one person who can help him get through to Chris, Jed starts the tough work of reconciliation armed with little more than a few family photographs, a stack of old letters, and a Bible that belonged to his great-grandfather, Andrew Henning. And as romance blossoms between Holly and Jed, the story of Jed's great-grandfather highlights the power of God across the generations and the legacy of a family's courageous faith.

My Review:

I am seriously in love with this series. Robin Lee Hatcher was definitely inspired to write each Legacy of Faith story. I love how the books are linked through the legacy of a great-grandfather's well-loved bible and how it touches his progeny right when they need divine intervention the most. 

Each book can be read as a standalone, but if you read them in order you will get a real sense of Great-Grandpa Henning's character and faith through the secondary plots (eeeeeeppp --  dual timeline alert!)

This time round, our current timeline hero is great-grandson Jed who seems to have it all. Successful businessman, favoured son -- he's spent a lifetime getting it right while his erstwhile younger brother keeps getting it wrong. This is an upended prodigal son story and I loved the emotional layers Hatcher packed into this complicated sibling relationship. 

There's so much more I want to say about the way the story unfolds, the significance Holly brings to Jed's life (in more ways then one) and the powerful impact Great-Grandpa Henning's faith has upon generations to come...but I won't. One, because I'd have to be specific and that would mean spoilers and, two, this is the type of story you really want to explore for yourself, savouring every nuance along the way. 

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  How Sweet It Is, 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 3 2020 . Offer open to International Readers. Good luck

Kiss the Bride : Three Summer Love Stories

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
MCCLONE, MELISSA
KATHRYN SPRINGER
KISS THE BRIDE : THREE SUMMER LOVE STORIES

Meet the people who make it all happen -- the planners, the photographers, the musicians who have helped orchestrate the perfect day for countless couples -- as they find their own happy endings in the second Year of Weddings novella collection.

Picture Perfect Love: A June Wedding Story by Melissa McClone

When image becomes everything, it's up to love to refocus the heart.

Photographer Jenna Harrison wants every bride and groom to look picture perfect on their special day. But her own heart is still broken, the unworn wedding dress hanging in her closet a reminder that relationships aren't always as perfect as they look through her camera lens.

Attorney Ashton Vance is the one that got away, but he wrongly blamed Jenna for ruining his political aspirations. Even if Jenna can forgive him, dare he hope for a second chance at her love?

I Hope You Dance by Robin Lee Hatcher

Can two left feet lead to one perfect romace?

Grant Nicholas is a genius in the kitchen and a klutz on the dance floor. But his friend's wedding is shaping up to be a shindig the likes of which Kings Meadow has never seen -- including dancing. Lots of dancing.

Former rodeo queen Skye Foster is offering dance lessons for the wedding party. Grant and Skye are no match on paper. But when they step onto the dance floor, they create a melody all their own.

Love on a Deadline : An August Wedding Story by Kathryn Springer

MacKenzie "Mac" Davis returns to her hometown of Red Leaf, Wisconsin, and takes a job at the weekly newspaper writing about social events.

When Hollis Channing, Mac's high school nemesis, returns to Red Leaf to marry her celebrity fiance, the editor asks Mack to cover all the festivities for the newspaper. The last thing Mac wants to do is reconnect with the person who made her life miserable when she was a teenager...unless it's spending time with Ethan Channing, the bride's older brother -- and Mac's first crush.

My Review:

published in 2016

I listened to the audible version of I Hope You Can Dance by Robin Lee Hatcher. Since it's a novella in this collection, Kiss the Bride is the book in the giveaway draw even though I haven't read the other two stories. 

This is classic sweet romance. Robin Lee Hatcher excels at creating memorable characters with true-to-life struggles and she delivers that here even with the shorter word count. And, oh my, the toe-curls!!!! And yay for a solid faith thread even with the novella length.

As a relatively new Christian struggling to get things right, Grant has distanced himself from his past, content with the single life. He's not looking for romance. Definitely not the happily-ever-after kind. Skye longs to create a family unit complete with oodles of kids and her hopes of meeting the man of her dreams just might have come true when she meets Grant. What follows is sheer romantical bliss!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  Kiss the Bride, 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 February 29 2020 . Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

Cross My Heart

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
CROSS MY HEART

Two broken paths lead toward God's redemption in the next installment of Robin Lee Hatcher's Legacy of Faith series.

Ashley Showalter and Ben Henning have so much in common. Both were raised by single moms. Both want to help where they see a need. And both work with horses in the Boise valley. Ashley runs a horse rescue operation, while Ben has started an equine therapy barn on his great-great grandfather's farm -- and both Ashley and Ben have the feeling that there could be something more between them.

But they share something else that might drive them apart if the truth is ever revealed. Ben is a recovering alcoholic, with ten years of sobriety behind him, while Ashley's brother, Dylan, is an opioid addict. currently residing in court-ordered  in rehab. Ashley has promised herself she would never walk knowingly into the chaos created by addiction -- because in her mind, addicts can never be fully cured. But with God, all things are possible. Will Ashley find it within herself to give love a chance, or will her brother's mistakes jeopardize her future with Ben?

My Review:

This is such an amazing series! Cross My Heart is the second book in the Legacy of Faith series but it reads beautifully as a standalone too. Love the series title -- it captures the heart of each story since Great-Grandpa Henning's bible brings solace and hope to his descendants in a very personal way.

This time, the secondary timeline features Andrew Henning's experiences during World War II and Ben (our current timeline hero) receives the note-riddled bible at a pivotal time in his life. Hatcher expertly blends the two timelines and I love the strong sense of family and faith that anchor their stories. Honestly, there were so many inspiring quotes but I listened to the audible edition so I couldn't write them all down. You can bet I'll be getting a paperback copy for my keeper shelf so I can soak up those words of wisdom!

A recovering alcoholic, with ten years of sobriety behind him, Ben is finally looking forward to a future he's not only dreamed about, but feels God has prepared the way for. Equine therapy was an important part of his recovery and he's determined to start up a program on the farm he's inherited from his grandfather. I found all the horse details absolutely fascinating. This book even prompted me to look up equine therapy programs in my own area! I was surprised to find a number of them within the city limits!

Then we have Ashley who lives and works to support her horse rescue operation and when Ben approaches her about providing some horses for his therapy barn...well, you might say it's a match made in heaven...Except they are both holding fast to secrets that have the power to tear them apart.

I really feel like Robin Lee Hatcher was divinely inspired to write this book. It touched me on so many levels. It's a true slice of life -- raw and real and messy. A powerful testimony to the changes God can make in our lives if we have the courage to place our trust in Him. Both Ben and Ashley grapple with issues common to many of us -- extending forgiveness, finding emotional healing, understanding our worth as a child of God and letting go of the past in order to embrace a better future.

A truly captivating and inspiring read -- I can't wait until the next book in the series releases! In fact, I hope there are a whole lot more cousins who need Great-Grandpa Hening's life lessons, 'cause I sure do!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Cross My Heart, 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!

Who I Am With You

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
WHO I AM WITH YOU

For these two broken hearts, the first step toward love will be a huge leap of faith.

Jessica Mason isn't looking for love when she meets Ridley Chesterfield. Instead she is still reeling from the tragic, unsuspected loss of her husband and daughter -- and awaiting the arrival of her unborn child. Harboring the secret of her husband's betrayal, her pain is deeper than anyone knows.

Ridley Chesterfield is hiding out in Hope Springs, Idaho, avoiding a political scandal and the barrage of false media headlines that have tarnished his good name. The last thing Ridley wants is a relationship -- but when fate leads Ridley to form a friendship with his reclusive and pregnant neighbor, he wonders if this small-town hideout might be more of a long-term destination.

When Jessica begins to read her great-grandfather's Bible, she finds a connection with a man she never knew. Somehow the verses he marked and the words he wrote in the margins open her heart to healing. And as Ridley and Jessica help each other forgive the people who have wronged them, they must decide if the past will define them or if they will choose to love again.

Who I Am With You weaves together a modern-day romance with Jessica's great-grandfather's story from the 1930s, reminding us that some truths can cross generations and that faith has the power to transform families forever.

My Review:

I might have exploded into a tilt-a-whirl of bookish euphoria when I discovered a sheltie heroine in this story. Don't worry, there's a human one as well, but bear with me for a moment. I've been owned by four shelties  in my lifetime and I might be considered a bit sheltie-centric. I've often lamented the absence of my favourite breed in my fiction. Labs, poodles, terriers, mutts -- I've read 'em all but nary a sheltie until now! And that makes me ridiculously happy. :-)

And so does this story -- though we wade through some dark waters on our way to resolution and hope. Both Jessica and Ridley have chosen isolation as a way to cope with the crisis and pain in their lives and it's that aforementioned sheltie that builds the bridge between them. :-) The grief and despair is tangible and sometimes I felt gutted and enraged on behalf of these characters. But there are sweet moments too as they cautiously venture into friendship. And then emotions run high (mine included) as friendship develops into something deeper.

There's a secondary timeline  featuring Jessica's great-grandfather which the author has expertly woven around the contemporary story. I loved the glimpse into the Depression era and that a family bible links Jessica to her past. A beautiful example of the legacy of faith that can survive generations.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Who I Am With You, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If 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 May 4 2019. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

Betrayal

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
BETRAYAL

Can two wounded hearts find a way to trust again?

Julia Grace has no desire to enter into another marriage. But with her dead husband's half brother threatening to take away her Wyoming ranch, Julia realizes marriage may be the only way to keep what is rightfully hers.

A man well acquainted with betrayal, drifter Hugh Brennan finds himself drawn to the attractive widow. Yet when he looks into Julia's eyes, he recognizes the same hurt that haunts him.

A thoughtful romance from the turn of the twentieth century, Betrayal will take you to the high desert of western Wyoming, through the crags of the Rocky Mountains, and into the souls of two seekers learning to trust God's love no matter the circumstances.

My Review:

published in 2012
My thanks to my public library for keeping me in retro reads like this!

Yes -- my second Robin Lee Hatcher book this week! Between trying to keep current with her new releases and catch up on her backlist, well, I'll be a busy reader for some time to come! And enjoy every moment of it too!

This is book two in Where the Heart Lives series. I read and reviewed the third book a few weeks ago and had no trouble working backwards as each book reads as a standalone though I love the thread that links these stories together -- siblings separated on the orphan train.

"Wounded hearts" is an apt description for this hero and heroine. Both have tasted the bitterness of betrayal and, as a result, have become wary loners. But they need each other now -- maybe Julia more than Hugh at first. Because a woman trying to run a ranch -- even a small one -- on her own is asking for trouble! And Hatcher happily supplies that in abundance. Like any good Western, Betrayal has a nefarious villain who causes no end of problems and I found myself gritting my teeth as I anticipated what would happen next. Oh -- and there's a spectacular dog -- appropriately named Bandit and he made this read all the sweeter. :-)

Another captivating love story with lots of grit and faith from an incredible author.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Betrayal, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadAT yahooDOTca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT nd DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If 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 June 24 2018. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

You're Gonna Love Me

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
YOU'RE GONNA LOVE ME

Who knew fate could twist a tragedy into a second chance at love?

Samantha Winters lives her life the way a good accountant should -- measured, deliberate and safe. After watching her father die in a tragic skiing accident, she decided never to allow risk into her life again. But she didn't count on falling for Nick Chastain, who embodies everything she doesn't want in her safely constructed world.

Against Samantha's warnings, Nick plans a dangerous kayaking trip over spring break. Furious that he's so careless with his life, she ends their fledgling relationship with harsh words.

Two years later, Samantha is desperately in need of a change. When she learns her grandmother has had an accident and is in need of a caretaker, Samantha quickly packs her bags and heads to Thunder Creek, Idaho. But nothing could prepare her for the surprise awaiting her in her grandmother's hospital room...Nick.

With the charming backdrop fo small-town friends, beloved cousins, and a whole church congregation rooting for them, can they set aside the disatrous ending of their first try at love? Has Nick changed enough to meet Samantha in the middle -- and can she realize that a risk in love might be worth taking?

My Review:

"None of us knows what the future holds. Much of what happens in life will never make sense to our mortal minds. But nothing is random or by accident. Our God still reigns, and He still has a plan for every one of us." (p 143)

I adore Gran! Love her wisdom and her patience and the way she opens her heart to everyone. She lives her faith, even as she sweetly conspires to see her granddaughter into a happily-ever-after. Gran and her friends may be secondary characters but their support is pivotal to the story. Love how Hatcher writes 'real' -- makes you feel like you are stepping into an actual town with the kind of folks you'd want for neighbours and friends.

Sam comes home to help her grandma, but the tables are turned when Gran helps her work her way through some crippling life choices. Because Sam lives in fear. She holds on to it and nurtures it to the point she hardly has a life at all. Such a contrast to Zach who lives loud and exuberantly...or he did until circumstances changed. Now he carries around his own fears, different from Sam's but just as incapacitating. Theirs is a moving second-chance love story and it doesn't come easy! Their struggles are relatable and there were times my faith in the outcome actually wavered. Because fear can be a bully that's hard to stand up to. Loved the faith aspect in this book as much as I did the romance!

And fans of the Thunder Creek series (this is book two) will be thrilled over the page time Derek and Brooklyn (You'll Think of Me) get in this one. Mind you, don't despair if you haven't read the first book because You're Gonna Love Me reads fine as a standalone (but I bet you won't be able to resist getting the first book after you read this one!)

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of You're Gonna Love Me, 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. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday June 24 2018. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

Beloved

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN
BELOVED

A most unwelcome guest surprises Diana at her engagement party -- the husband she thought was dead!

Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving now word from him in years, Diana is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.

But when Tyson returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his house and campaign with him, but when it's over, win or lose, she wants her freedom.

He agrees with one condition -- she must agree to give him a chance to change her mind about him.

My Review:

published in 2013
My thanks to my public library for keeping me flush in retro reads!

A neat twist on a prodigal son's return. There's angst from the very first page -- I mean, what reader can resist siding with an abandoned wife never mind how contrite the reformed husband?! And Hatcher tells this love story with such flare -- "To say the least, it was inconsiderate of Diana's almost-dead husband to show up at her engagement party." (p 3) Bwahahaha! Love the subtle humour lurking among the angst! And that erstwhile Tyson --- swoony sigh -- he's definitely seen the light, found the Lord and wants nothing more than to make amends to the wife he didn't realize he loved so much. So he sets out to woo her and she's determined to resist while chaos seems to take over their lives in the form of strays and frenemies and unsuspecting evil. A great escape for the avid romance reader.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Beloved, 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 June 3 2018. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

You'll Think of Me

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
YOU'LL THINK OF ME

In a small town in Idaho's idyllic wine country where the past looms large, can two people realize their individual dreams for the future...together?

Abandoned once too often, Brooklyn Myers never intended to return to Thunder Creek, Idaho. her hometown holds too many memories of heartache and rejection. But when her estranged husband Chad Hallston dies and leaves his family home and acreage to her and their ten-year-old daughter Alycia, it's an opportunity to change their lives for the better -- a chance Brooklyn can't pass up for Alycia's sake if not her own.

Derek Johnson, Chad's best friend since boyhood, isn't keen on the return of Brooklyn Myers to Thunder Creek. He still blames her for leading his friend astray. And now she has ruined his chance to buy the neighboring ten acres that would ahve allowed him to expand his organic farm. To add insult to injury, Chad's dying request was that Derek become the father to Alycia that Chad never was. How can he keep that promise without also spending time with the girl's mother?

Brought together by unexpected circumstances, Derek and Brooklyn must both confront challenges to their dreams and expectations. He must overcome long held misconceptions about Brooklyn, while she must learn to trust someone other than herself. And if they can do it, they just might discover that God has something better in mind than either of them ever imagine.

My Review:

An inspiring romance that tugged at my heartstrings as I lived each exhilarating moment with Brooklyn and Derek.

Brooklyn is a real overcomer though she is still taunted by her harsh upbringing. But she fights her way through as she strives to make a better childhood for her own daughter. For the most part, she's got this, even though returning to her hometown has stirred up feelings she thought buried long ago.

Brooklyn's arrival challenges Derek on so many levels. (And can I insert major fan-girling here over an organic farmer hero. Stuff my dreams are made of!) Alas, he's stuck in the past too. Ever loyal to his deceased best friend, he's sure that Brooklyn was trouble back then and is certainly trouble now...at least where his dreams are concerned. These two struggle with loss and forgiveness as they begin to clear a path towards a joyous future...if they have the courage to let go of the past.

Hatcher writes relatable characters with realistic dilemmas and I love how she weaves the power faith brings to the most challenging circumstances. Her words reached into my life and ministered to me through Brooklyn's journey and I am so grateful to an author who isn't afraid to speak Truth into her stories and consequently into my life.

You'll Think of Me is the kind of read that will capture your heart and soul and leave you glad you spent some time in Thunder Creek, Idaho.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like a chance to win a copy of You'll Think of Me, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add 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 November 5 2017. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

Keeper of the Stars

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
KEEPER OF THE STARS

She blames him for her brother's death. Can she let go of resentment and open her heart to love?

Penny Cartwright found it difficult to understand why her younger brother would choose to join a country singer’s band rather than return to Kings Meadow after college . . . and the separation strained their relationship. Then a car accident made certain her brother could never return.

Trevor Reynolds has chased stardom in Nashville for more than a dozen years, but it remains out of his reach. After an accident kills his young drummer, Trevor goes to Kings Meadow to keep a promise—and perhaps to discover what truly matters in this life.

Thrown together by circumstances, Penny and Trevor must learn to give and receive forgiveness. And if they do, perhaps something beautiful can rise from the ashes of heartbreak.

My Review:

A touching love story rises out the ashes of a whole lot of heartbreak. This is really a story about grief, the varying stages and the unique way each individual grieves the loss of a loved one.

Penny has drawn into herself, nursing the hurt over her brother's unexpected death until anger and bitterness begin to fester. There were times during this read that I didn't like her. I wanted her to snap out of the doldrums. I fumed at some of the things she said...and thought...about Trevor. In short, I wasn't very compassionate. And that's what's wonderful about this book -- it sheds some light on the inner workings of the grieving process and I think it has made me a more empathetic person as a result.

Trevor arrives in King Meadows without knowing what he's supposed to do there. But he made a promise to a dying friend so he's determined to stick it out, even though he can tell Penny can't stand having him around.  There's some deep-rooted resentment simmering beneath the brittle façade she presents to the world -- and it's all directed at Trevor. They both nurse a lot of 'what ifs' as they grapple to come to terms with young Brad's death.

And Brad is an interesting secondary character -- especially since he's dead! We're treated to insightful flashbacks from his perspective over the years leading up to the car crash and his untimely death. Hatcher expertly weaves his memory through the lives of those who loved him. His steadfast faith becomes the anchor that ultimately frees them all. A powerful testimony to God's purpose even in the midst of sorrow.

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

http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/keeper-stars-robin-lee-hatcher

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of  Keeper of the Stars 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 February 7 2016 . Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

The author is also doing a Kindle Fire Giveaway -- see details below (and click on link to enter)

http://www.robinleehatcher.com/celebrating-my-76th-release-keeper-of-the-stars/

The Story Jar

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
HUNT, ANGELA E.
BEDFORD, DEBORAH
THE STORY JAR

While cleaning in a tiny old church, Beth Williams finds a gallon-sized mason jar filled with an odd assortment of items. "It's a story jar," explains Mrs. Halley, the newly widowed pastor's wife. "Every item in it represents a mother's story and a miracle of God."

Curious, Beth listens as the tale behind each object unfolds: a blue hair ribbon and the mother who faces her greatest fear...a silver ring and the woman who finally sees into her daughter's heart...a tiny, yellow sock and the adoption that tests a young mother's patience and faith.

In addition to three heart-wrenching, heart-warming novellas, The Story Jar features true-life tributes to their mothers from Jerry Jenkins, Francine Rivers, Debbie Macomber and others. This is a book that will lift your spirit and lead you to new faith in the Father as it honours mothers everywhere.

My Review:

A charming collection of powerful mother-love novellas.  These are stories as much about faith and trust in God as they are about motherhood. Three mothers face different life-changing challenges -- cancer, teenage rebellion and infertility. All heavy issues that could burden a reader however each author infuses such hope and spirituality into each story that I came away uplifted instead.  A compelling read that was over way too fast.

Added bonus: a variety of authors have written sweet tributes to their own mothers including Debbie Macomber, Francine Rivers, Lori Copeland, among others.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of  The Story Jar 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 15 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Whenever You Come Around

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
WHENEVER YOU COME AROUND

Will writing a romance help this author find a real-life hero?

Charity Anderson turned her back on Kings Meadow years ago, with good reason, and has avoided visits to her hometown whenever possible. But with her house in Boise damaged by floodwaters and a book deadline bearing down, staying in her parents’ empty home seems her only option. However, being in Kings Meadow dredges up a painful secret, and old fears threaten to overwhelm her.

Charity’s former high school classmate Buck Malone never left town, instead sacrificing his dreams to take care of his family. Now he enjoys an uncomplicated life as a wilderness guide and confirmed bachelor. The last thing on his mind is settling down.

When Charity’s dog causes an accident that leaves Buck with a broken ankle and wrist at the start of prime tourist season, Charity has little choice but to render aid while he recuperates.  Soon Buck becomes the inspiration for Charity’s hero, both on the page and off. Can he also help her face and overcome her fears so they might find their own happily ever after?

My Review:

A breathtaking story celebrating God's grace and second chances.

The hero and heroine's first meet had me laughing and wincing. Talk about making a first impression! I'll leave you to judge whether it's a good one or a bad one. There's definitely some sizzle going on between Charity and Buck. He kind of enjoys it and can be a bit of a flirt -- she's just running scared. Falling in love is so not on her agenda. Pretty hard to stick to the program though when you're writing a romance staging a real life cowboy hero.

As with all Hatcher's books, the setting takes on a life of its own. Loved revisiting Kings Meadow. Am enamoured with rural Idaho thanks to this author's descriptive words.

I think Charity's journey touched me the most. She's chosen to silently battle a difficult past and that unwillingness to share has left some deep scars. Shame, insecurity and keeping God at a distance are the caustic results of her silence. My heart hurt for her. Buck is just the person to bring her out of her self-imposed exile.

A stirring tale about the healing power of love -- both God's and man's.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Whenever You Come Around 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 July 12 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Love Without End

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
LOVE WITHOUT END

Chet and Kimberly have both failed when it comes to love. Will they risk their hearts to love again?

Chet Leonard’s life was forever changed when his seventeen year old son died and then, soon after, his wife walked out on their family. Over two years later, all he wants to do is hold onto his horse ranch and raise his remaining sons to be honorable men.

Kimberly Welch, widowed mother of Tara, a rebellious fifteen-year-old, has reached the end of her finances and nearly the end of her rope. She and Tara come to Kings Meadow to try to piece their lives back together again. Kimberly has no intention of become involved with the residents of this remote mountain community and certainly not with any man.

When 84-year-old Anna McKenna returns to Kings Meadow and to the Leonard ranch, she becomes an agent of change and healing for the two hurting families. With her help, Kimberly and Chet’s families at last discover a love without end.

My Review:

I'm delighted to know that this is the first in a new series. I have fallen in love with Kings Meadow and I'm anxious to return. I felt right at home on the ranch and that's saying something for this city girl. Hatcher has created a setting that takes on a character all its own.

And speaking of characters -- there are a bevy of living breathing ones in the pages of this book. I adored Nana Anna. The wisdom of her life experience is just what Chet and Kimberly -- and their families -- need. The book goes back and forth in time to tell Anna's story while developing Kimberly and Chet's romance in present time. Love how the two blend together and there are so many nuances to the title, Love Without End.

Hatcher takes her readers on an emotionally explosive journey towards second chances. A brilliant and inspiring read.

My thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group and the publisher for a review copy of this book.

http://litfusegroup.com/author/rhatcher

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Love Without End 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!

Four Weddings and a Kiss : A Western Bride Collection

GIVEAWAY

BROWNLEY, MARGARET
CLOPTON, DEBRA
CONNEALY, MARY
HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
FOUR WEDDINGS AND A KISS : A WESTERN BRIDE COLLECTION

In 1885 five western preachers sit around a campfire talking about unlikely couples they’ve seen God bring together.

“Spitfire Sweetheart” by Mary Connealy

Maizy Place is an unruly tomboy. When she causes an accident, injuring neighbor Rylan Carstens, she becomes his unlikely caregiver. Rylan has never noticed how pretty his infuriating neighbor is, and he never expected to fall in love.

“Love Letter to the Editor” by Robin Lee Hatcher

Molly Everton is the outspoken daughter of the town newspaper’s owner. When her father brings in an outsider to be editor, she tries to drive him out of town. But Jack Ludgrove is not intimidated. He’s resolved to change Molly’s mind about him—as an editor and as a man.

“A Cowboy for Katie” by Debra Clopton

Katie Pearl is uninterested in men and love. But she needs help on her ranch and hires Thad Rayburn, a wandering cowboy looking to make a buck. Will Thad change Katie’s mind?

“Saving Grace” by Margaret Brownley

Grace Davenport is either the unluckiest woman alive—or a killer. When her third husband is found dead, Grace is arrested. Attorney Brock Daniels isn’t interested in the case—until he meets Grace. Only a miracle will prove her innocence, but the joining of two lonely hearts may be their saving grace.

My Review:

Squeeeeaaaalllll! I got my hands on an ARC (Advanced Reader's Copy) of Four Weddings and a Kiss and couldn't wait to dive in. What a treat! Better than chocolate...almost. :-)

Four dynamic authors combine their considerable talent to create a fantastic read. I really enjoyed the introductory scene with all the preachers gathered around the campfire trying to out do each other with unlikely matrimony tales. What a clever thread to pull these four different stories together!

All hail to 'true grit' heroines of the wild west. There's nothing as inspiring as the women who helped settled the West. These authors do our pioneer ancestors justice with vivid tales of courage and love.

And the heroes -- as diverse in temperament as they are in looks, each one swoonworthy in his own way. Stubborn, irritable, and sometimes rough around the edges perhaps, but all set my heart a pitter-patter as I read their stories.

I'm amazed at the ability of these authors to deliver such a rich, satisfying read in a novella length story. Each one is pact with action, romance and humour -- a lethal combination! Four Weddings and a Kiss belongs on every TBR pile -- but you'll have to wait until June to get your hands on a copy but I promise, it's worth the wait.

My thanks goes to Mary Connealy who provided me with an advanced reader's copy of this book.

Giveaway Opportunity:

PLEASE NOTE: THIS BOOK DOESN'T RELEASE UNTIL JUNE. YOUR BOOK WILL BE PREORDERED FOR YOU.

 If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Four Weddings and a Kiss : a Western Bride Collection 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 March  30 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck.

A Bride For All Seasons

GIVEAWAY

BROWNELY, MARGARET
CLOPTON, DEBRA
CONNEALY, MARY
HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
A BRIDE FOR ALL SEASONS

It All Started with an Ad in a Mail Order Bride Catalogue…

Melvin Hitchcock of the Hitching Post Mail Order Bride Catalogue isn’t dishonest—not exactly. If he tweaks his clients’ applications a bit, it’s because he’s looking out for their best interests.
This charming bouquet of novellas introduces four Hitching Post prospects in the year 1870, each one eager for second chances . . . and hungry for happiness. Year in, year out, they’ll learn that love often comes in unexpected packages.

“And then Came Spring” by Margaret Brownley

Mary-Jo has traveled halfway across the country to meet her match, arriving just in time for his funeral. Returning home seems like her only option until her would-be brother-in-law proposes a more daring idea.

“An Ever After Summer” by Debra Clopton

Ellie had no idea she’s not what Matthew ordered. And what’s wrong with being a “Bible thumper” anyway? She’s determined to show him she’s tougher than she looks—and just the girl he needs.

“Autumn’s Angel” by Robin Lee Hatcher

Luvena would be perfect for Clay if she didn’t come with kids. But kids are a deal breaker, especially in a rough-and-trouble mining town. ­ The trouble is, there’s no money to send them back . . .

“Winter Wedding Bells” by Mary Connealy

David’s convinced he’s not long for the world. He needs someone to mother his boys when he’s gone—nothing more. Can plucky Irish Megan convince him to work at living instead of dying?

My Review:

What a powerhouse group of authors! So absolutely no surprise that this compilation of novellas makes for an amazing read! And what a clever twist to the mail-order-bride angle! Ol' Hitch certain plays havoc for the couples in these stories and I loved every confusing minute of it! And yes, I just noticed that every sentence so far ends in an exclamation mark, but honestly, each one is warranted. A Bride for all Seasons is an incredible read filled with humour, inspiration and romance! Therefore exclamation marks are a given. :-)

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of A Bride For All Seasons, 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 July 7 2013. Offer open to international readers. Good luck! 

Heart of Gold

GIVEAWAY

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
HEART OF GOLD

The truest treasure is found deep in the heart.

Back in her beloved Virginia, Shannon Adair loved nursing injured soldiers back to health. But in Grand Coeur, Idaho-the rough-and-tumble place where her father has been called to lead the church-shes not sure where she fits in. Then a critically ill woman arrives, and Shannon knows her place at last: to care for this dear woman and ease her pain.

Matthew Dubois is the fastest and most reliable stagecoach driver on Wells Fargos payroll. But his widowed sister is dying and hes about to inherit his young nephew. So he takes a job at the Wells Fargo express office in Grand Coeur until he can find the one thing he needs to get back to driving: a wife to care for the boy.

What neither of them knows is that God is at work behind the scenes-and is lovingly bringing them together to discover the true desires of their hearts.

MY REVIEW:

Another amazing read from Robin Lee Hatcher. There's something so satisfying about slipping back in time with this author as your guide! The historical details create an ambiance that always leaves me befuddled when I come up for air and find myself int he 21st century.

Inspiration threads the layers of this book together and I particularly enjoyed Shannons' father's private conversations with God. It's Shannon's transformation that really touched me though. She's a bit too prideful in the beginning and a whole lot of judgmental and I grew right along with her.

Matthew is the kind of Western hero dreams are made of -- even if he thinks he's the footloose and fancy free kind! I love how Hatcher changes his mind! Great all around read for any historical romance lover!

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like to win a copy of Heart of Gold, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. Remember to put the title in the subject line. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday April 29. (note: I'm still having problems with my internet at home so if you don't see a post Sunday it will be up bright and early Monday morning.) Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Belonging

GIVEAWAY!!!!!!

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE
BELONGING

Can two bitter pasts make one sweet future?

In the high desert town of Frenchman’s Bluff, Idaho, Felicia Kristoffersen has set out to create a future for herself that is better than her painful past. Alone in the world with only her faith to sustain her, she must prove herself as this tiny community’s new school teacher. She cannot, must not, fail. But there are those who never wanted her there to begin with.

Five years after the death of his wife, local merchant Colin Murphy cares about just one thing: raising his daughter, Charity. Colin wants to give her the educational advantages he never had. The new schoolmarm’s inexperience doesn’t sit well with him, and if this teacher up and marries like the last one did, Charity’s heart will be broken once again.

A woman who hasn’t known love. A man who lost the love he had.

In the midst of the wide, sage-covered plains, each is about to discover that life’s bitterest circumstances truly can work together for good.

My Review:
 
This one is pure love story -- rhe kind of book where romance takes center stage all the way through. There's no bank robbers to catch, no kidnapping to foil, no villains to outsmart...and it makes for a refreshing change!  Hatcher has perfected her craft and spins an unforgettable tale about overcoming the past in favour of accepting the promises of the future. It's a tough road for both hero and heroine, both memorable characters who resonated with me.

Colin had my sympathies from the start -- both because of his past and because of his unwilling attraction to the new school teacher. It was fun to watch him fight that -- to struggle to keep his distance and his gruff demeanor. Hatcher didn't let him get away with it for long though and I loved the way the romance developed.

Felicia is spunky and funny and so terribly determined to find a place that she can call home. She has such high hopes for her first teaching position and is thrilled at the welcome she receives from most of the community. However Mrs. Summerville is a negative force to be reckoned with -- the kind of character you love to hate and want to smack upside the head a time or two! LOL. Thankfully Felicia and Colin prevail against her in the end but not without some angst.

Belonging is a lovely historical romance that will tug at your heart and stay there long after you've read the last page.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like to win a copy of Belonging by Robin Lee Hatcher please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. Make sure to put the title in your subject line. The draw will be held and winner announced on Sundary October 2. Open internationally.

A Matter of Character

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE

A MATTER OF CHARACTER

It's 1918 and Daphne McKinley, heiress to a small fortune, has found contentment in the town of Bethlehem Springs, Idaho. But Daphne has a secret.

A series of dime novels loosely based on local lore and featuring a nefarious villain known as Rawhide Rick has enjoyed modest popularity among readers. Nobody in Bethlehem Springs knows the man behind the stories -- except Daphne.

When newspaperman Joshua Crawford comes to town searching for the man who sullied the good name of his grandfather, Daphne finds herself at a crossroads, reassessing the power of her words, re-thinking how best to honour her gifts and reconsidering what she wants out of life.

THIS IS THE THIRD IN THE SISTERS OF BETHLEHEM SPRINGS SERIES, THOUGH IT STANDS FINE ON ITS OWN. IF YOU'VE READ THE OTHER TWO THOUGH, YOU'LL BE PLEASED TO CATCH UP WITH GWEN AND MORGAN AND CLEO AND WOODY.

I LOVE THE WAY ROBIN LEE HATCHER WRITES. SHE KNOWS HOW TO FLESH OUT A CHARACTER UNTIL THEY TAKE ON A LIFE OF THEIR OWN WHICH MAKES ME A COMMITTED READER RIGHT FROM PAGE ONE.

I REALLY LIKED THE POST-WORLD WAR ONE TIMELINE. THIS TRANSITIONAL PERIOD IN HISTORY WITH ALL ITS 'MODERN' ADVANCEMENTS WAS A GREAT BACKDROP FOR THE PERSONAL TRANSITIONS BOTH THE HERO AND HEROINE GO THROUGH.

JOSHUA CRAWFORD IS A HERO DREAMS ARE MADE OF -- EXCEPT FOR A FEW MINOR FLAWS . HIS TEMPER AND ALMOST HERO-WORSHIP OF HIS DECEASED GRANDFATHER ARE WHAT GIVE HIS CHARACTER AN EDGE AND DEPTH AND PROPELS HIM THROUGH THE STORY. I LOVED HIS GROWTH IN THE BOOK -- I COULD FEEL HIM STRETCHING OUT OF HIS COMFORT ZONE, WRESTLING WITH THE TRUTH, STRUGGLING WITH HOW TO LIVE GOD'S COMMANDMENTS WHILE FACING SO MANY CHANGES IN HIS LIFE.

DAPHNE MCKINLEY IS, ON THE SURFACE, THE PERFECT HEROINE. SHE HAS EVERYTHING -- MONEY, LOOKS, A VIABLE CAREER, THE RESPECT OF A WHOLE TOWN AND THE LOVE OF FAMILY. BUT THERE'S SOMETHING VULNERABLE ABOUT HER TOO. SHE'S ON THE CUSP OF DISCOVERING TRUTHS ABOUT HERSELF AND WHAT SHE REALLY WANTS OUT OF LIFE...AND MORE IMPORTANTLY WHAT GOD WANTS FROM HER LIFE. IT IS WHEN SHE FACES THE ROOT OF HER DISSATISFACTION AND LETS GO OF HER DEFENSIVE BEHAVIOUR THAT SHE REALLY COMES INTO HER OWN.

BOTH JOSHUA AND DAPHNE ARE STRONG, BELIEVABLE CHARACTERS AND THERE IS AN UNDERLYING CONNECTION EVEN WHEN THEY ARE AT ODDS WITH ONE ANOTHER. THERE ARE SOME CLASSICAL ROMANTIC SCENES IN THIS BOOK AND A KISSING SCENE THAT'S GUARANTEED TO CURL YOUR TOES.

HATCHER DOES A WONDERFUL JOB OF INTERWEAVING A POWERFUL MESSAGE ABOUT THE WEIGHT OF WORDS AND THE EFFECT THEY CAN HAVE ON PEOPLE. AS DAPHNE STRUGGLES OVER WHAT DIRECTION SHE WANTS HER WRITING TO TAKE, I COULDN'T HELP BUT WONDER IF THIS WAS SOMETHING CLOSE TO HATCHER'S HEART. THAT SHE HAD COME TO THE SAME TURNING POINT IN HER CAREER WHICH ADDED A NEW DIMENSION TO MY READING ENJOYMENT.

Trouble in Paradise

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE

TROUBLE IN PARADISE

Her aunt's bequest was the answer to Shayla Vincent's prayers. The rustic, secluded cabin was the perfect spot to start her long-deferred writing career. Ian O'Connell was her new neighbour -- a rugged rancher caring for his two adorable nieces. Yet Shayla had already helped bring up her siblings. Raising another family when her career goal was within her grasp was the last thing she wanted, even as the brown-eyed cowboy had quickly become the first.

ANOTHER GREAT CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE BY ROBIN LEE HATCHER. SHE DOES A WONDERFUL JOB OF CAPTURING ALL THE NERVES AND SECOND-GUESSING OF A BURGEONING ROMANCE -- THE COMPLICATIONS, MIS-COMMUNICATIONS, WORRIES ABOUT LOSING ONESELF IN THE FACE OF BEING A COUPLE. AN INTERESTING TWIST TO THE STORY IS SHAYLA BEING AN ASPIRING AUTHOR. THERE ARE SOME GREAT SCENES WHERE SOMETHING OR SOMEONE SPARKS HER IMAGINATION AND SHE LOSES TOUCH WITH REALITY AS SHE 'WRITES' IT INTO HER BOOK. MAKES FOR SOME FUNNY MIX-UPS.

Diamond Place

HATCHER, ROBIN LEE

DIAMOND PLACE

Nobody loves baseball more than ten-year-old Lyssa Sampson. Nobody. For as long as she can remember, she's had only one dream: to be a pitcher at the Little League World Series. But the widowed Coach Jenkins has other plans, and Lyssa has to do a little innocent scheming to make her dream come true. When Coach Jenkins appears to be interested in Lyssa's single mother, Terri, Lyssa sees an opportunity for a little matchmaking. Maybe her efforts will help her mother find happiness again-and give Lyssa a chance at her dream at the same time. But will Terri and Coach Jenkins let a ten-year-old deal with matters of the heart? Or will reason take over and spoil Lyssa's plan? Diamond Place, the third book in the Hart's Crossing series, is a heartwarming tale of hope, healing, and the power of love.

THIS SHORT NOVELLA MAKES A GENTLE, ROMANTIC READ. I FINISHED IT IN ONE SITTING WHILE WAITING AT THE DOCTOR'S OFFICE.