Sweet Tea

GIVEAWAY

HUGULEY, PIPER

SWEET TEA

Southern traditions, history, and hope come together in author Piper Huguley's heartfelt romance from Hallmark Publishing.

Althea Dailey has succeeded beyond her wildest dreams: she's about to make partner at her prestigious law firm in New York. So why doesn't she feel more excited about it? When she has to travel South for a case, she pays a long-overdue visit back home to Milford, Georgia. To her surprise, a white man she's never met has befriended her grandmother.

Jack Darwent wasn't interested in the definition of success dictated by Southern high society. His passion for cooking led him to his current project: a documentary and cookbook about authentic Southern food. Althea's grandmother is famous for her cooking at Milford College, a historically Black institution. But Althea suspects Jack of trying to steal her grandmother's recipes.

Despite Althea and Jack's first impressions of one another, they discover they have more in common than they'd guessed...and even as they learn about one another's pasts, they both see glimmers of a better future.

This Southern small-town romance includes a free Hallmark original recipe for Grandma's Biscuits and Gravy.

My Review:

I was so excited to discover Piper Huguley's first contemporary romance on audible and I have to say I was entranced by Inger Tudor's performance as narrator. Her rich tones and unique interpretation of each character elevated the story. Kudos to the brilliant collaboration of author and narrator! I enjoyed listening to Sweet Tea immensely.

And this story!!! First, loved the tie it has to the author's Milford College series. That was such a fun surprise! Althea is a descendant of those earlier book characters and I got a little thrill every time they were mentioned. No worries if you haven't read that historical series, Sweet Tea is definitely a standalone novel, I just get a bibliophile boost when I find fictional connections like that. Yes, I'm that book nerd. :-)

While this has all the makings of a typical Hallmark movie, Huguley's delivery is anything but. Her approach to the small town girl makes big in the city and returns home to find herself trope fresh and exciting. And a lot of that excitement comes courtesy of Jack. (This is your cue to clear off your fainting couch.)

He's a dream hero. Unflappable, creative, dedicated to living in the moment with zest and enthusiasm. He's learned how to slow down and focus on what's really important and when he sets his sights on Althea...oh my! (Might want to grab a couple of fans too.)

By contrast, Althea is uptight and driven -- out to prove something -- but why and to whom? I was itching to figure her out from the very first chapter. She is so distrustful of Jack even as she fights an attraction to him. And the man is so happy and content it makes her antsy! Such great dynamics between these two. Plenty of opportunities for verbal sparring and teasing banter which brings the romance sizzling to life.

But it's Miss Ada, Althea's grandmother, who steals every scene she's in. I love that woman! Everyone needs a Miss Ada in their life, bossing them around and telling them what's what and reminding them of where they come from and who God made them to be. If I'd had a book in hand I would have underlined a variety of Ada-ism to treasure after the reading glow has dimmed. Might just have to have a re-listen to appreciate Miss Ada some more.

This is a story about finding your place -- in your family, in the world and especially in God's kingdom. Althea' journey of discovery is moving and uplifting and I appreciated the inspirational themes intrinsically woven into the heart of her story.

And I do so love a clever title tie-in and this one is beyond that! All in all a thrilling read (or listen) and I'm hoping the author has more contemporary Milford stories coming out soon!

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 Sweet Tea, 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 August 14 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

A Most Precious Pearl

GIVEAWAY

HUGULEY, PIPER
A MOST PRECIOUS PEARL

Asa Caldwell returned from the Great War with nothing to show for it -- as in nothing below his left knee. Forget about the journalism career he loved. His story is over. Done.

Yet he finds the strength to journey to Winslow, Georgia, to get Ruby Bledsoe Morson's sister out of trouble. Before he can bring Mags Bledsoe home though, a spate of mysterious attacks reawakens his investigative instincts.

During the war, Mags did her duty to God and country by stepping into a management role at the textile mill. Now she's been shuffled back to the rank and file -- and Asa has her hard-earned job. Not only is the infernal man doing everything wrong, her plan for revenge against the mill owner who lynched her childhood sweetheart is father out of reach than ever.

As they clash over almost everything, Mags begins to set fire to Asa's soul, bright enough to dim the memory of the killing fields of France. Enough to give him a new mission in life -- to make her feel the same way.

My Review:

The kind of read that kept me fuming and swooning in equal measures. And what a fascinating historical backdrop! 1919 is a time of change. The war is over and men are making their way back home and into jobs that women have been holding for years. I'm still grinning over the righteously indignant Mags as she watches a stranger from the north take over her management position. Poor Asa -- not the way to endear himself to the fiery woman. In fact, I adored the dynamics between these two -- Asa, teasing and watchful; Mags all prickly and affronted. Goodness, but she can hold a grudge and pick a quarrel at the drop of a hat! Much to Asa's delight...and frustration.

But there's even more going on in Winslow, Georgia -- and right across the south. African American men who have fought in the war have returned with greater expectations than ever before. They want more of that freedom they risked their lives fighting for. But instead of greater freedom they encounter intimidation and oppression and constant threats of violence.

Asa and Mags join forces to expose injustice which leads to some heart-pounding scenes. But it also serves to draw them together as they fumble their way towards a happily ever after they hardly dare dream of. There were times when Asa's tender yearning made my heart ache. And the story around Mags name and his subsequent nickname for her? Be. Still. My. Heart. Thud.

And through it all, they both cling to the Lord with very little understanding of how good could be worked from so much evil. But they hang on anyway, bearing witness of God's hand in their lives even during the darkest hours.

This is the kind of book you could discuss for hours -- there are so many aspects I haven't even touched on. It would make a wonderful book club selection. Emotionally charged and soul satisfying -- and enthralling read from beginning to end.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

 If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of A Most Precious Pearl 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 Sept 4 2016. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

Treasure of Gold

GIVEAWAY

HUGULEY, PIPER
TREASURE OF GOLD

Trusting in the One who orders her steps, Nettie Bledsoe is determined not to deviate from her route to the charity kitchen. Don't stop for anything, her sisters say. Pittsburgh isn't like Georgia, they warn.

Yet when low moans of unholy suffering drift from an alley, she can't help but investigate. It's a man. The most beautiful man she's ever seen. Despite his scandalous reputation, something within her responds to his sinfully rich voice.

Jay Evans is trying hard to stay on the straight and narrow, and doesn't want help from any church do-gooder. But until his wound heals, he needs help caring for his young daughter, Goldie. Especially since Nettie saw fit to fire Goldie's barely competent nanny.

Despite their mismatched backgrounds, Nettie and Jay fight a losing battle against their growing attraction. But it's only when Nettie is kidnapped that Jay realizes that if he doesn't get her back safe and sound, his heart will shatter into unaccountable pieces.

My Review:

Nettie has been stuck in the middle all her life. With two older sisters and two younger ones, she's the odd sister out. She takes comfort in her faith and the whole family believes that she is destined to remain unmarried so that she can serve the Lord with her spiritual gifts. And then she meets -- rescues really -- Jay and her whole world shifts. Suddenly the biddable, predictable sister develops a backbone and strives for independence. What a conundrum for her family!

Jay has reached a turning point in his life when he meets Nettie. Deep down he knows he's ready for change but that doesn't mean he's not ornery about it. Great dynamics between these two who spar more than woo their way through a rocky romance. And Jay's daughter, Goldie, is an endearing scamp -- a real scene stealer.

Faith-filled and heartwarming right to the very last page.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for an EBOOK only.

If you would like an opportunity to win an e-copy of Treasure of Gold 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 28 2016 . Offer open to international readers. Good luck!

A Virtuous Ruby

GIVEAWAY

HUGULEY, PIPER
A VIRTUOUS RUBY

An unexpected love in a small, Southern town.

After fifteen months of hiding from the shame of bearing an illegitimate child, two words drive Ruby Bledsoe to face the good citizens of Winslow, Georgia. Never again. She vows to speak out against injustice. For her sisters. For her parents. For her infant son, Solomon.

When she comes to help an injured mill worker, she bristles when a tall, handsome man claiming to be a doctor brushes her aside. Despite his arrogance, Ruby senses he’s someone like her, whose light skin doesn’t quite hide who he is.

Up north, Dr. Adam Morson easily kept his mixed race a secret. Now that he’s in Georgia, summoned by his white father, he can feel restrictions closing in around him.

Something powerful draws him to the beauty whose activist spirit is as fiery as her name. And soon, Adam wants nothing more than to take Ruby and her child far from Georgia’s toxic prejudice. But Ruby must choose between seeking her own happiness and staying to fight for the soul of her hometown.

My Review:

Such an emotional read. My heart feels bruised, achingly tender now that I'm in recovery mode. This is a somber story, but a hope-filled one as well.

Ruby is an incredible heroine -- such a mix of contradictions. She's poised and regal and proud. Intelligent and determined to improve her circumstances. But she's also stubborn and defiant. Just ask Adam. He's learned the hard way and, honestly, in a battle of wills, he doesn't stand a chance. There's great dynamics between these two -- set apart by the very different worlds they live in.

When Adam comes to Winslow, Georgia, Ruby becomes his guide, helping him adapt to the harsh realities of the South. Only she's a firebrand who refuses to be muzzled and she doesn't hesitate to speak out against the atrocities being committed among her people. She doesn't hold back when it comes to the interloper doctor either. Adam begins to anticipate -- even look forward to -- her scathing comments and looks of disdain as she strives to put him in his place. But love flourishes in unlikely places though Ruby and Adam have enough challenges to hurdle before they can begin to hope for a future together.

 Racism is ugly and Huguley doesn't mince words when it comes to the violence, degradation and brutality of white dominated Winslow Georgia. I was outraged through most of this read. Fuming at the ignorance and depravity of the inhabitants; shocked by the narrow-minded prejudice of Ruby's own people.

The author does an amazing job of capturing the volatile dynamics of this time period. It is present within Ruby's own family and the tenuous relationship she has with her mother. As well as in the complication her illegitimate child brings, leading to harsh judgements within her own church community. It is present in Adam's family as well and in the fine balance he attempts to navigate between white and black.

Faith is expertly woven into every aspect of the lives of these characters. It flows naturally into the overall story arc -- an extension of the time and the people. Beautifully uplifting in the midst of so many stark scenes.

A compelling introduction to Migrations of the Heart series. I can't wait to read the rest of the books!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

E-BOOK COPY ONLY

If you would like an opportunity to win an e-copy of  A Virtuous Ruby 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 Preacher's Promise



GIVEAWAY

HUGULEY, PIPER
THE PREACHER'S PROMISE

1866 – Oberlin, Ohio/ Milford, Georgia

 Devastated by her father’s death days after her triumphant graduation from Oberlin College, Amanda Stewart is all alone in the world. Her father’s unscrupulous business partner offers her an indecent proposal to earn a living. Instead, to fulfill a promise she made to her father, she resolves to start a school to educate and uplift their race. Sorting through her father’s papers, she discovers he had carried on a mysterious correspondence with a plantation in Milford, Georgia. She determines to start her teaching work with the formerly enslaved. However, when she arrives, the mayor tells her to leave. There’s no where for her to go.

Virgil Smithson, Milford’s mayor, blacksmith and sometimes preacher man with a gift for fiery oratory, doesn’t want anything to do with a snobby schoolteacher from up North. On top of everything else, the schoolteacher lady has a will hard enough to match the iron he forges. He must organize his fellow formerly enslaved citizens into a new town and raise his young daughter alone. Still, his troubled past haunts him. He cannot forget the promise he made to his daughter’s mother as she died—that their child would learn to read and write. If only he didn’t have secrets that the new schoolteacher seems determined to uncover.

 To keep the preacher's promise, Amanda and Virgil must put aside their enmity, unite for the sake of a newly-created community in a troubling age, and do things they never imagined. In the aftermath of the flood that was the Civil War, God set his bow upon the earth to show love and understanding for humankind. To reflect God’s promise, these combatants must put aside their differences and come together--somehow.

My Review:

Amazing debut novel that takes an entirely different look at the post Civil War South. I learned a lot, including that this time period is called the Reconstruction Era. Loved the fresh perspective of a former slave and free Northerner. Virgil is so closed and prickly. Pride and insecurity battle for prominence as he buries his attraction to the unexpectedly female school teacher. As far as welcoming committees go, he's the least friendly of them all. But Amanda has nowhere else to go and she's desperate to carry out the work her father had a passion for. Clash of wills, barbed comments and a whole lot of fun ensue.

My ire skyrocketed while reading a number of historical plot points. Freedom didn't come easily. In a way it was more of a mockery then anything else. Huguley brings all the injustice and hope and raw determination of this era to life in a most spectacular way. A riveting read.


GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

Important to note: -- paperback copy available in US only. Ebook version available for international winner.

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of The Preacher's Promise 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 22 2015. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!