THE LOST MELODY

 

by

 

Joanna Davidson Politano

 

 

 

Historical Romance

Publisher: Revell

Pages: 384 pages

Publication Date: October 4, 2022

 

 

Scroll down for the Giveaway!

 

 

 

 

When concert pianist Vivienne Mourdant’s father dies, he leaves to her the care of a patient at Hurstwell Asylum. Vivienne had no idea the woman existed, and yet her portrait is shockingly familiar. When the asylum claims she was never a patient there, Vivienne is compelled to discover what happened to the figure she remembers from childhood dreams.

The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know.

But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?

Joanna Davidson Politano casts a delightful spell with this lyrical look into the nature of women’s independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era–and now.

 

 

 

Baker Book House | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

 

Christianbook.com | Baker Publishing Group 

 

 

Praise

 

“Haunting. Riveting. Filled with hope. The Lost Melody is all these things and more. Author Joanna Davidson Politano delves into the dark world of Victorian mental health, and it’s the reader who comes out the winner after being enchanted by this tale of identity lost. After you read the last page, the characters will live on in your mind. Truly a fantastic read!” — Michelle Griep, author of Lost in Darkness

“Joanna Davidson Politano’s stories go on my bookshelf as a favorite! The stories she pens entice my Gothic-loving senses, thrill my literary soul, and inspire the dark romantic inside my spirit. I cannot emphasize enough how strongly I adore each story from this vivid and insightful author, and how badly I wish for all readers to experience her tales!” — Jaime Jo Wright, author of The Souls of Lost Lake, and Christy Award-winning The House on Foster Hill

 

 

 

 

 

 

This book is one that touched my soul. Despite the dreariness of the setting, it is inspirational and uplifting.

I love well told historical novels, and this one is no exception. While based on some facts, such as who was put into asylums and why, it is purely fictional. I have read several books that are set in asylums, and it is heartbreaking to think of how they were treated, or not treated, 100+ years ago. People were often put into asylums for things that the doctors didn’t understand, such as depression, epilepsy, and so much more. But that is how things were in the 1800s; medicine was still evolving.

In this story, we meet Vivienne, a concert pianist, who has just lost her father and discovered that there wasn’t much left of his estate except for someone named Rose, that was in the Hurstwell Asylum, and he was paying for her care. But attempts to discover who this person is and why her father was paying for her care were met with opposition from the staff. They claimed they had no idea who she was talking about. This leads Vivienne to go undercover to uncover the truth. What she finds is deplorable, and things continue to go south for her when she is locked up as a patient in this asylum.

There are so many inspirational characters that, despite their situation, continue to be a beacon of light for Vivienne and those around them. They lift each other up in times of despair and sorrow and want what is best for everyone. Other characters are closed-minded, and I think they have become frustrated with the job, which is understanding. The conditions are deplorable, and because of the century, modern medicine is not ready for all of these issues.

What fascinated me was the beginnings of music therapy in this story. Music touches everyone’s soul in one form or fashion, and it was heartwarming to see how it opened up some of the patients they thought to be a lost cause. Music is in everything. We just have to be open to hearing it.

There is even a little bit of romance in this novel. Because of the era, it is very mild, but we see a relationship developing between Vivienne and Dr. Turner. Will it continue, or is it two people caught in a situation that holds them hostage for different reasons?

This book held me captive, and I did not want to put it down or the book to end. There is so much growth due to the situations that the characters were embroiled in that it might make one take a look at their own life.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joanna Davidson Politano is the award-winning author of Lady Jayne Disappears, A Rumored Fortune, Finding Lady Enderly, The Love Note, and A Midnight Dance. She loves tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives and is eager to hear anyone’s story. She lives with her husband and their children in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan.

 

 

Website | Bookbub | Facebook

 

Twitter | Amazon | Goodreads

 

 

 

 

 

GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY GIVEAWAY!

 

ONE WINNER!

 

Receives a Sterling Silver Treble Clef pendant necklace

 

+ Copy of The Lost Melody

 

(US only; ends midnight, CDT, October 13, 2022.)

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

 

Visit the Lone Star Literary Life Tour Page

For direct links to each post on this tour, updated daily,

Or visit the participating blogs directly:

 

 

10/4/22	Chapter Break Book Blog	Playlist
10/5/22	Shelf Life Blog	Author Interview
10/6/22	Carpe Diem Chronicles	Review
10/7/22	The Plain-Spoken Pen	Review
10/8/22	Rainy Days with Amanda	Excerpt
10/9/22	LSBBT Blog	Excerpt
10/10/22	Jennifer Silverwood	Review
10/11/22	The Page Unbound	Deleted Scene
10/12/22	StoreyBook Reviews	Review
10/13/22	Boys’ Mom Reads!	Review

 

 

 

blog tour services provided by

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

A humorous and heartwarming novel about friendship and all its little secrets by Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jamie Beck.

Wendy Moore hides her collection of pilfered bric-a-brac from everyone, including her husband. He thinks she licked her kleptomania in therapy more than a decade ago. Therapy did help, as did focusing her attention on motherhood. But now Wendy’s gardening and furniture-refinishing hobbies fill up only so much of the day, leaving the recent empty nester lonely and anxious—a combination likely to trigger her little problem. She needs a project, fast. Luckily, Harper Ross—a single, childless younger woman in desperate need of highlights—just moved in next door.

The only thing Harper wants to change is the writer’s block toppling her confidence and career. Then a muse comes knocking. Sensing fodder for a new antagonist, Harper plays along with Wendy’s “helpful” advice while keeping her career a secret so Wendy keeps talking. Sure, she’s torn about profiting off her neighbor’s goodwill—especially when Wendy’s matchmaking actually pans out—but Harper’s novel is practically writing itself.

Just as a real friendship begins to cement, their deceptions come to light, threatening Wendy’s and Harper’s futures and forcing them to reconcile who they are with who they want to be. Easier said than done.

 

 

Amazon * B&N * BookShop

 

Read for Free via Kindle Unlimited

 

 

Review

 

I always enjoy Jamie’s books, and this one is no exception. This story is about friendship, breaking molds, and moving forward in one’s life.

Wendy is out of sorts because her good friend and neighbor has moved away, her son has gone off to college, and something is going on with her husband. All of these can be stressors in our lives, and it is a double-edged sword for Wendy because she also has an impulse control issue – kleptomania. I don’t know much about this disorder personally, but the author does a good job explaining it and sharing how it is a mental health issue. Mental Health issues run rampant in our world today, so bringing one to light helped me understand a little bit more about it so I would be prepared if I encountered it in my world.

Harper is a writer that had a successful debut novel, but her second novel was a flop. She moves to this small town for inspiration for her new novel, and she finds it in spades. But at what cost? Harper is a very jaded woman, and while I understand where she is coming from, she tends to push her ideas and thoughts onto others without considering, listening to, or understanding their position.

This story is told from both points of view, and it was interesting to see how each viewed certain situations. Both are right and wrong at different times, and as the story progresses, we see them slowly start to change and adapt to their new lives or at least be more open to different viewpoints. It is an unlikely friendship, but it works.

It did take me a little while to get into the story, perhaps about 15-20%, but then I felt the story really moved along, and I became more invested in the characters. I enjoyed watching them realize their flaws and foibles and move past them, or at least acknowledge them.

We give this book 4 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

National bestselling author Jamie Beck’s realistic and heartwarming stories have sold more than two million copies. She’s a Booksellers’ Best Award and National Readers’ Choice Award finalist, and critics at Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, and Booklist have respectively called her work “smart,” “uplifting,” and “entertaining.” In addition to writing, the author of the Cabot novels, the Sterling Canyon novels, and the St. James series enjoys dancing around the kitchen while cooking and hitting the slopes in Vermont and Utah. Above all, she is a grateful wife and mother to a very patient, supportive family.

Fans can learn more about her on her website, www.jamiebeck.com, which includes a fun “Extras” page with photos, videos, and playlists. She also loves interacting with everyone on Facebook.

 

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

A disgraced attorney seeking redemption. A single mother desperate to regain custody of her son. Two women willing to risk it all to put a sexual predator behind bars.

 

Former Assistant District Attorney Miranda Quinn is on the brink of a career comeback when she gets a phone call. It’s a witness who disappeared three years earlier, resulting in a violent criminal going free. Miranda was fired as a result, but the witness has resurfaced with a shocking story, one that implicates Miranda and her ex, defense attorney Adam Baxter. And now, there’s a new victim.

Miranda’s legal advice blog-turned-podcast Miranda Writes is about to become a daytime TV show, but the negative press could destroy her credibility. Will the network stand behind her?

When it comes to the law, Miranda has all the answers, but the questions are getting harder and the stakes are getting higher. The dangerous web of lies and cover-ups she exposes leaves her questioning just how much she is willing to risk. She has the right to remain silent, but needs to speak up… doesn’t she?

 

Miranda Writes is a story of how far we’ll go to protect those we love and the power of second chances.

 

 

Amazon * B&N

 

 

Review

 

Mix romance, a little suspense, and quick wit, and you get Miranda Writes.

I was hooked on this book from the get go. Miranda is a lawyer who was somewhat disgraced when she worked for the ADA’s office. She moved to writing a blog and doing a podcast to address legal scenarios, which made her happy. Now, she has been signed by a broadcasting company to do a live show, and she is beyond thrilled. However, the case that threw a wrench into her life has circled back around, and Miranda is in the middle of things, but not necessarily in a good way.

I enjoyed this fast-paced novel that had me wondering who was involved in the coverup from years ago, who was terrorizing Miranda, and would she overcome everything that was being thrown at her. I was quite surprised at different turns of events as Miranda learned the truth about what happened three years ago. While I sympathized with Miranda, some of her actions didn’t make much sense. Everything hinges on one witness, yet when she doesn’t respond, she doesn’t go find out what happened to her. And when she meets a new guy, Eric, she practically falls into bed with him the first moment they are alone. So, while I enjoyed the storyline and uncovering the truth, Miranda’s actions at times were puzzling, to say the least.

There are some twists that I didn’t expect that just added to the depth of the story. I liked that several people got what was coming to them, and they were brought to justice.

We give this book 4 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Gail Ward Olmsted was a marketing executive and a college professor before she began writing fiction on a fulltime basis. A trip to Sedona, AZ inspired her first novel Jeep Tour. After three more novels: Driving on the Left, Guessing at Normal and Second Guessing, she began Landscape of a Marriage, a biographical work of fiction featuring landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, a distant cousin of her husband’s, and his wife Mary. Her latest, Miranda Writes, is a contemporary novel with a legal twist. She loves writing about quirky, wonderful women in search of a second chance at a happy ever after.

 

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram

 

 

Someday Belongs to Us

 

By

 

Margie Seaman

 

 

Fiction / Pirate Romance / Late in Life / Sea Stories

Publisher: Stoney Creek Publishing Group

Pages: 224 pages

Publication Date: June 22, 2022

 

 

Scroll down for the Giveaway!

 

 

 

 

It’s never too late to find love on the high seas.

 

Kate Caldwell is a 72-year-old romance novelist writing under the nom de plume, Desiree Desire. With more than thirty bestsellers to her credit, Kate is considered an authority on romance. Her personal life, however, has been lacking in the love department for a long time, and she has all but given up hope of finding a true, romantic connection. Her latest series, about a rakish eighteenth-century pirate, has been a struggle. Her struggle with her own creative processes boils over on a stormy night, when Captain Edward Peregrine, a pirate of the Caribbean during the year 1721, begins appearing to her as she sleeps. Convinced that Edward is a figment of her imagination, Kate happily accepts his return visits, and the two collaborate on the first two books of the series. Then, Edward suddenly stops appearing, and Kate is frustrated with her publisher’s demands for the next book.

In desperation, she decides to take a two-week cruise with her granddaughter, Ellie, hoping the chance to relax and watch the waves breaking in the beautiful waters of the Caribbean will reset her creative process. Little did Kate know that troubled waters lay ahead or that she’s in for the adventure of her life, and possibly, true love at long last.

 

 

 

Stoney Creek Booksellers | Amazon

 

 

Praise

 

“A fun and lively read about romance, and the real and imagined adventures of a woman writer cruising through her senior years. Once again, Margie Seaman proves age is no obstacle in this swashbuckling debut novel.” —Lise Olsen, Author of CODE OF SILENCE

 

 

 

 

 

 

This debut author sure knows how to weave a tale! There is so much included in this book, from love to a little intrigue, humor, and new friendships.

Kate may be a bit older, but her life isn’t quite over. She has written many successful romance novels, but now her agent wants her to be a bit more explicit during those sex scenes. I can only imagine having to start writing that into a book and the toll it could take when that isn’t what you are used to doing. I chuckled a time or two when she wrote these scenes and the words she used to describe the human anatomy. Of course, her granddaughter, Ellie, had to rib her about it, and Kate takes it all in stride.

Kate’s muse is the pirate, Edward Peregrine, who captains a ship appropriately named The Falcon. He comes to her in her dreams or a semi-conscious state, and they plot out this series of books. Their banter about what should be happening in the books and how he approaches various situations is intriguing and made me wonder how many authors have conversations with their characters. I think it is more than we know! I do think that there is something brewing between these two which may sound odd, and they may not be together in this lifetime, but perhaps in an afterlife situation. I enjoyed their banters about what should happen to him in her books. He definitely has opinions that might differ from Kate’s, but I suppose that is why the books are hits.

In hopes of some creative ideas for the third book, she and Ellie take a cruise out of Galveston through the Panama Canal. This cruise is quite an adventure, and they explore the islands and make new friends at their dinner table. However, not everyone is above board, and I suspected something was up with a certain character, which I won’t name. You will have to read the book and discover that for yourself. I’m just glad that Kate was a little savvier than this other character gave her credit because it could have been a disaster if their plans were executed.

Another creative twist with this book was the book within the book. Kate shares chapters from the book she is writing, and we can see Edward’s adventures unfold in front of our eyes. We learn a lot about his character. While he may be a pirate, he is an honorable one.

While the majority of the book takes place on the cruise ship, it doesn’t end there. The friendships formed from this group of dinner companions are wonderful, and considering all live close by (or relatively anyway), it doesn’t make it a hardship for anyone to continue their relationships.

I really enjoyed this book and hope that this author doesn’t wait too long before sharing another adventure with us.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MARGIE SEAMAN is an eighty-five-year-old, late-blooming author of her debut novel Someday Belongs to Us. After a forty-year career in marketing, she switched to a new venture in website design where she has been the president of Citation Solutions for the past fourteen years. Margie also writes a travel blog for seniors, The Graytripper, that encourages people to get out and explore their world. Margie is the mother of three, grandmother of seven, and great-grandmother of three. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and lives in Houston, Texas, right down the street from her childhood home. She is currently dogless for the first time in her life but does have some totally spoiled cats that ungraciously allow her to share their living environment.

 

Website

 

 

Stoney Creek Publishing

 

Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram

 

Stoney Creek Publishing

 

 

GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY!

 

THREE WINNERS!

 

Autographed, limited edition, hardcover copies of

 

Someday Belongs to Us

 

(US only; ends midnight, CDT, 8/26/2022.)

 

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

 

Visit the Lone Star Literary Life Tour Page

 

For direct links to each post on this tour, updated daily,

 

Or visit the participating blogs directly:

 

 

8/16/22	StoreyBook Reviews	Review
8/16/22	Hall Ways Blog	BONUS Promo
8/17/22	Shelf Life Blog	Excerpt
8/17/22	LSBBT Blog	BONUS Promo
8/18/22	Forgotten Winds	Author Interview
8/19/22	Reading by Moonlight	Review
8/20/22	All the Ups and Downs	Scrapbook Page
8/21/22	Stories Under Starlight	Guest Post
8/22/22	It’s Not All Gravy	Review
8/23/22	Chapter Break Book Blog	Deleted Scene
8/24/22	Boys’ Mom Reads	Review
8/25/22	Rox Burkey Blog	Review

 

 

 

 

blog tour services provided by

 

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

Ada’s world is torn apart when she discovers the man who raised her isn’t her biological father. To make matters worse, Daniel’s illegitimate daughter, Casey, has taken Ada’s place in his life. Faced with losing everything, Ada searches her dead mother’s belongings for answers. What she discovers will change her life forever.

Casey finally has a chance at romance with her long-time crush. But before she can make her move on Jamie, she has an unexpected encounter with sexy saxophone player, Luke Ellington. If she’s so certain Jamie is the one, why can’t she stop obsessing about Luke?

Burdened by her troubled past, Ollie must confront her demons in order to control her anger. When she undergoes extensive counseling, she discovers the men in her life aren’t the people she thought they were. Is it possible her arch enemy could be the man of her dreams?

 

 

Amazon * B&N * Kobo

 

 

Review

 

If you are looking for a book that encompasses the lives of women in the south and in a vineyard, then look no further!

This is the second book in the Virginia Vineyards series, and things heat up with multiple characters. Ollie is dealing with anger issues, Ada has family issues, and Casey is trying to figure out where she fits in.

In the first book in this series, Casey discovers who her father is and after some conversations, becomes a part of the family, much to the dismay of Ada, his daughter. Ada is rather witchy towards Casey, and I can understand why. However, the tables are turned when she learns that Daniel is not her father. This rips her world apart, and I have to admit, Daniel is a bit of a horse’s behind to her. I’m not sure why everything has to be black and white to him, but he raised Ada as his own, and how can he just toss her aside like trash? This book is an eye-opener into Daniel’s behavior, and, amazingly, he hasn’t been left behind by all of his children. However, this forces Ada to reconcile who she is and what she wants from her life going forward. After the first book, I didn’t like Ada very much. However, seeing what she was put through, I started to admire her gumption and was cheering her on by the end of the book.

Ollie is one hot mess. I’m not sure what is causing her rage, but she needs help. Thankfully, there is a retreat in town to help her address her anger management issues. If she didn’t take advantage of this opportunity, it could have caused even more problems in the end. She is lucky to have Sheldon by her side, whether she wants him there or not. He is persistent and won’t let her push him away, or at least not very often. There are a few surprises in store for these two near the end, and I wonder what is in store for them next.

Casey is still trying to find her footing in her new family. Most of her half-siblings still oppose her being there and the job that she is given in the company. She is a talented graphic artist but is stymied by what her father wants from her regarding the company’s rebranding. I must admit that if I didn’t have much to go on, I would be frustrated too, especially when he berates her talent. Then there is her love life. She thinks that Jamie is the guy for her until she meets Luke, a part-time saxophonist in a local band. These two have some chemistry, but miscommunication causes rifts in their potential relationship.

This series is full of fun, love, gorgeous scenery, conflict, and independence. While a spin-off of another series, this one does not rely on that series to prop it up. It stands on its own and draws the reader into a world that will take them away from the daily grind. This was a fairly quick read for me, and I had difficulty putting the book down. I always enjoy this author’s works, and this is no different.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Ashley Farley writes books about women for women. Her characters are mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives facing real-life issues. Her bestselling Sweeney Sisters series has touched the lives of many.

Ashley is a wife and mother of two young adult children. While she’s lived in Richmond, Virginia for the past 21 years, a piece of her heart remains in the salty marshes of the South Carolina Lowcountry, which she still calls home. Through the eyes of her characters, she captures the moss-draped trees, delectable cuisine, and kindhearted folk with lazy drawls that make the area so unique.

 

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Bookbub

 

Subscribe to Ashley Farley’s Newsletter for monthly updates, release info, sneak peeks, and more.

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

Two couples in love. Two sets of impossible circumstances. One powerful God of grace.

After a devastating tailspin in her late teens, Lauren Anderson’s life is finally back on track. Then a chance meeting with Carter Douglas, her first love and the man who broke her heart, threatens to throw her well-balanced world out of control.

Now a TV meteorologist, Carter is determined to make amends with Lauren. After all, she still owns his heart. But his old demons are forcing him toward the same decision he faced in the past. Is he courageous enough to make a different choice this time around?

When Lauren’s elderly grandmother, Rosie, begins having nightmares about a man named Ephraim–a name her family has never heard before—a fascinating and forbidden past love comes to light. As Lauren and Carter work to uncover the untold stories of Rosie’s past in 1950s Wichita, they embark on a journey of forgiveness and second chances that will change their lives—and Rosie’s—forever. Along the way they’ll learn that God wastes nothing, his timing is perfect, and nothing is beyond his grace and redemption.

 

 

Amazon * B&N * Kobo * Bookshop

 

Click here to read an excerpt

 

Praise

 

“A reading experience both heartfelt and heart-tugging, a timeless exploration of young and enduring love and the grace found in second chances. Amanda Wen is a rare and remarkable storyteller, and this is a novel I will not soon forget.” –Amanda Barratt, Christy Award-winning author of The White Rose Resists

“A stunning journey of loss, love, and yearning. . . . Past and present are deftly woven together in this dual-timeline narrative that will leave readers flying through the pages.” – Amanda Cox, author of the 2021 Christy Award Book of the Year, The Edge of Belonging

 

Review

 

This story has all the feels – love, loss, challenges, and family dynamics.

There are two stories being told in this novel. The first is of Lauren and Carter. They meet 13 years ago in the theater and due to circumstances they split apart and have not seen each other until now, and that was by chance in the makeup aisle at the drug store. Sometimes you meet the right person but not at the right time and that is their situation. Carter had family issues he was dealing with and Lauren had her own issues that resulted from their breakup. But perhaps the second time around will be better because they have both had time to grow and deal with their issues.

The second story is one that really touched my heart and is about Lauren’s grandmother, Rosie, and her first love during high school in 1955. Despite living in Kansas, interracial relationships were not accepted and especially not by her parents. I loved reading about the love affair that Rosie had with Ephraim, how they hid it from everyone, and what they taught each other. Rosie’s grandchildren would never have known about this part of her life if it weren’t for a bible that they brought to the memory care unit to ask her about it in one of her more lucid moments. Dementia is not a kind disease and having lost a parent to this, I could understand what Lauren and Garrett were dealing with and the emotions that ran through them not knowing if it would be a good or a bad day.

If this book teaches us nothing else, it is to grab life while you can and enjoy every moment because you never know what tomorrow will bring. Lauren and Carter learn this through incidents with their families and their own lives. I also appreciated the fact that Lauren could admit to counseling even years later because her issues weren’t gone and had flared back up.

These stories are also about hope and that God has a bigger plan for all of us, more than we can ever imagine. Faith may be tested for several characters, but holding on to hope will get them through. It is a time of growth and reflection for several characters as well.

I loved this book and was sad to see it end. It reminded me to have faith, believe in myself, and remember that no problem is too large that it can’t be solved.

We give this book 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

Amanda Wen is an award-winning writer of inspirational romance and split-time women’s fiction. She has placed first in multiple writing contests, including the 2017 Indiana Golden Opportunity, the 2017 Phoenix Rattler, and the 2016 ACFW First Impressions contests. She was also a 2018 ACFW Genesis Contest finalist.

Wen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and regularly contributes author interviews for their Fiction Finder feature. She also frequently interviews authors for her blog and is a contributor to the God Is Love blog. Her debut novel, Roots of Wood and Stone, releases from Kregel Publications on February 2, 2021.

In addition to her writing, Wen is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and her church’s worship team. She serves as a choral accompanist as well. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Wen lives in Kansas with her patient, loving, and hilarious husband, their three adorable Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat.

 

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram

 

 

Giveaway

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

Amber, Lachlan and Raffaele met as teenagers in the Cornish seaside home of kind-hearted foster parents. Years on, the bond between them is unbreakable

But Amber has a secret. She’s in love with Lachlan. She can’t tell him, because that would never work – he’s definitely not the settling-down type. Surely it’s better to keep him as a friend than to risk losing him for good?

Raffaele has his own dilemma. He had the dream girlfriend in Vee, until it all went horribly wrong . . . and he still can’t understand why. Is Vee hiding something from him?

Now their widowed foster dad Teddy has found new love. Younger, charming and beautiful, Olga seems perfect. But is she? Or will she break Teddy’s fragile heart?

Against a backdrop of sparkling seas and sunny skies, the unexpected is always just around the corner. Welcome to Lanrock!

 

 

Amazon * B&N * Kobo * Bookshop

 

 

Review

 

This is a cross between women’s fiction and romance, but of course, that sounds like they might be the same thing but they are not.

This book primarily follows three friends that met while in a foster home tended by Teddy and May. There are several other characters and couples that bring their own dynamics to the book that make it overall a delightful read and add some depth and variety to the novel.

Teddy and (the late) May brought many children into their home and loved them as if they were their own no matter how long they stayed. That love and affection are what pushed those closest to Teddy to question the new woman in his life whom he met on a cruise. Does she really love him or is she a gold digger? It could go either way based on what we see, but I have to admit Olga is one of a kind. She definitely shakes up everyone’s lives but for the better.

Amber, Lachlan, and Raffaele formed a tight bond that still existed many years later. They supported each other through their ups and downs and while they each found their footing in their respective careers – stained glass, chef, and stylist. I appreciated the hard work that they endured for their crafts and that they do not take any of it for granted. They are also there for each other during their various relationships especially Raffaele’s relationship with Vee which has gone off the rails but for reasons you may not suspect.

I think the one character that was possibly overshadowed by others is Benjie. He is shy and very much an introvert and I think many would be able to relate to his character. However, with the help of a few of the other characters, he comes out of his shell by the end of the book. It just took him a little more time than some but he really blossoms by the end and I loved seeing him grow.

I can’t go without mentioning Moose, an energetic dog that causes a few incidents in the book. But lovable all the same.

Overall, we give this book 4 paws up. It was a relaxing read in a picturesque setting. Plenty of family dynamics to keep the story interesting.

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

 

With over ten million copies sold, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jill Mansell writes irresistible, funny, poignant, and romantic tales for women in the tradition of Marian Keyes, Sophie Kinsella, and Jojo Moyes. She lives with her partner and their children in Bristol, England.

 

Facebook * Twitter * Website

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

A disillusioned millennial ghostwriter who, quite literally, has some ghosts of her own, has to find her way back home in this sparkling adult debut from national bestselling author Ashley Poston.

Florence Day is the ghostwriter for one of the most prolific romance authors in the industry, and she has a problem—after a terrible breakup, she no longer believes in love. It’s as good as dead.

When her new editor, a too-handsome mountain of a man, won’t give her an extension on her book deadline, Florence prepares to kiss her career goodbye. But then she gets a phone call she never wanted to receive, and she must return home for the first time in a decade to help her family bury her beloved father.

For ten years, she’s run from the town that never understood her, and even though she misses the sound of a warm Southern night and her eccentric, loving family and their funeral parlor, she can’t bring herself to stay. Even with her father gone, it feels like nothing in this town has changed. And she hates it.

Until she finds a ghost standing at the funeral parlor’s front door, just as broad and infuriatingly handsome as ever, and he’s just as confused about why he’s there as she is.

Romance is most certainly dead . . . but so is her new editor, and his unfinished business will have her second-guessing everything she’s ever known about love stories.

 

 

Amazon * B&N * Kobo * Bookshop

 

Apple * Google * Indiebound

 

 

Praise

 

 “Poston makes her adult debut with a refreshing rom-com about love, loss, and hope…The sparkling dialogue makes the characters come alive—even the dead ones. Readers won’t be able to put this down.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“The beauty and charm of Poston’s storytelling continues to make miraculous happy endings out of the messes in which ordinary people often find themselves entangled…A refreshingly fun, energetic novel.”—Shelf Awareness

“A sweet and sparkling adult debut.”—Kirkus Reviews

 

 

About the Author

 

Ashley Poston writes stories about love and friendship and ever afters. A native of South Carolina, she now lives in a small grey house with her sassy cat and too many books. You can find her on the internet, somewhere, watching cat videos and reading fan-fiction.

 

Website * Instagram * Twitter

 

 

 

 

Synopsis

 

Brooke Turner has always had a complicated relationship with her father. But when his health takes a turn for the worse, she drops everything to care for him. He’s her dad, after all, and he needs her. What Brooke doesn’t anticipate is the unraveling of her long-term relationship and a cross-country move to San Diego’s Little Italy.

Luca D’Angelo is the oldest of three children and a single father to a young daughter. When his mother rents the top floor of their house to Brooke, he’s angry. Who is this beautiful stranger with no ties to the neighborhood? Can she be trusted in such close proximity to his family?

As Luca learns of Brooke’s difficult journey with her ailing father, his heart softens. And Brooke, who witnesses Luca’s struggle as a single parent, develops feelings for him, too. But when it all falls apart, will love heal their wounded hearts?

 

 

Amazon * B&N * Bookshop

 

Read for Free via Kindle Unlimited

 

 

Interview with Catherine

 

 

For anyone wondering the plot of your newest release, you give a great sneak peek with the title—When it Falls Apart. What is “falling apart” in this novel?

 

All the threads that hold my heroine, Brooke, together are crumbling down around her. When it Falls Apart begins with Brooke’s romantic relationship crashing and burning. At the same time, in a different state, her father is circling the drain in the ICU. And for the cherry on the top of her “falling apart life”, Brooke has found herself demoted at work. In short, everything in Brooke’s life is dissolving around her.

 

Like all of your books, When it Falls Apart has a beautiful romance, however, there is a rawness about Brooke’s story. How was writing this novel different from your others?

 

If you read my notes both in the front and the back of this novel, you’ll soon realize that the story was very personal to me. Rawness comes from experience. The relationship Brooke has with her father is hauntingly familiar to me and my dad. The emotions that the heroine experienced when taking care of him were easy for me to grasp onto and write about. Sadly, the love story with Luca was completely made up and I didn’t have the support of a strong Italian family to help deal with the struggles, but I digress.

Relationships with a parent who wasn’t there for you growing up are messy. When that parent ages and needs their child, sometimes that help comes with a bucketload of resentment, even if the child wishes they could stop those ugly feelings from creeping up on them. And THAT is the rawness you speak of.

 

Books, TV shows, and movies oftentimes glamorize what it means to care for a loved one. However, in When it Falls Apart you don’t sugar-coat anything about caregiving and the toll it takes on a person. How do you think readers who have been in similar situations will be affected by this story?

 

Justified. Validated. Accepted.

It’s a hard job taking care of an elderly family member. And if there aren’t other siblings to help, or won’t help, it’s made even more difficult. It’s difficult, gritty, dirty work that only has a bad ending…eventually. What I do hope my readers take away is that they’re not alone. That the struggle is very real and that if they don’t find balance (which is almost impossible at times) they will burn out completely and not be fit to help at all. I hope my readers are empowered to set boundaries and balance, so they come out on the other side of caring for an elderly loved one whole themselves.

 

Brooke gets virtually no support from her significant other, which has her reevaluating their relationship. She realizes she has settled and has to make some hard decisions. Do you think this happens too many times to women in real life?

 

100% Yes! There is a song by Taylor Swift with a line that says, and I’m paraphrasing here, I can be what you want for the weekend. But often that weekend ends up being a relationship that women hold on to or are convinced they can’t live without. Often it takes a huge shake-up to remove yourself from that situation. But once you’re away from the day to day dysfunctional relationship, the easier it is to see the dysfunction.

 

After her breakup and move, Brooke is not looking for a relationship. In fact, she tells her best friend: “I haven’t wiped off my smeared mascara from Marshall yet, the last thing I want is to jump into anything else.” Her crying over a man lasts all about two minutes when she meets Luca. Tell us about him.

 

Hmmm, Luca… he is the kind of man who doesn’t want a place on Brooke’s dance card…he wants to rip it up.

Luca is wired to help the people in his life. Brooke becomes a part of his inner circle simply by moving into the family building where he sees her every day.

Now, if Luca had flat out asked Brooke on a date, she would have run the other way…so no, he doesn’t go about it that way. He simply shows up and does not leave. Not when things get tough, or messy…or when his own past peeks its head in. Luca is a man who is right there at Brooke’s side without question or censor on why she does the things she does. His support and validation of her feelings is the part she was missing. Add in the hunky Italian single father and “Mamma Mia!”

 

At first, Luca is not thrilled that Brooke is renting a room in his family’s building. What changes his mind about her?

 

Her strength and vulnerability. I know that sounds contradicting, but some of the strongest women I know have a big vulnerable spot in their life that if you know them well enough, you see. The biggest smiles often hide the deepest pain. Luca sees her struggle and dedication to helping her elderly father and since family is first on Luca’s list, she passes his unconscious test.

 

Luca’s family, the D’Angelo’s, are incredibly close and share everything from ownership of the family restaurant to helping care for Luca’s daughter Franny. How is this different from Brooke’s relationship with her family?

 

Brooke doesn’t have that family. She has a father who abandoned her as a little girl that she carved out a relationship as an adult, and now she’s charged with caring for. Even her previous romantic relationship didn’t support her unconditionally the way the D’Angelo’s do for each other. She’s rather dumbfounded when they start treating her like family. It’s a wonderful thing to watch happen.

 

San Diego’s Little Italy plays a huge part in the story. The community, language, and food are in full display. Tell us about your own experiences in your adopted city.

 

I love Little Italy, the food, the pace… the people. There are many places in San Diego that are overrun with the college scene, San Diego is a college town. But Little Italy is more family friendly. Very touristy, but there isn’t a day you don’t see locals hanging out. I go to the farmer’s market often. Pick up authentic Italian ingredients for my own home cooking. I try new restaurants and take all my friends there when they are visiting from out of town. Not to mention it was the closest thing to the “real Italy” that I could go during the travel restrictions. So why not write about it and tell the world of this small island within San Diego that shouldn’t be missed?

 

There are two more siblings in the D’Angelo family. Where will you be taking readers next with the series?

 

Chloe is a yogi. Think Bali!

And Giovanni loves wine… think Tuscany, Italy.

I cannot wait to show you what I have in store for these two!

 

 

Excerpt

 

“Oh my God, Carmen. He was standing at his car first thing this morning. Like ‘hop in, bella, let’s get stuff done today.’ Who does that?”

Brooke had picked up the phone as soon as Luca was off in search of a dump guy.

“We’re talking about the single, hot, Italian dad, right?”

Brooke rolled her eyes. “Yes. Luca.”

“Oy, oy, oy.”

“Stop it. I need advice. And I need it before he gets back.”

Carmen stopped teasing. “You don’t need advice. You need to relax. He sounds like one of the good ones. Let it happen.”

“Let it happen,” she mocked. “I don’t ‘let’ things happen. It happens to me and it’s never good.”

“You didn’t used to be such a pessimist.”

“Once upon a time the glass was half full. Not these days.”

“Okay, Debbie Downer. You want my advice . . . here it is. Keep doing whatever it is you’re doing.”

“I’m not doing anything. Zero effort.”

“Really?” Carmen didn’t sound convinced. “Makeup . . . a nice dress?”

Brooke hesitated. “Maybe . . . a little last night, but that was it.”

Carmen chuckled.

“Carmen!”

“Sorry. Okay . . . any red flags?”

Brooke thought about that. “He loved his ex-wife.”

“That’s a red flag?”

“I guess not.”

“Is he good to his mom?”

Brooke looked back on the dinner the night before. “To the whole family. He takes being the oldest brother quite seriously.”

“And his daughter?”

All Brooke could do was smile. “Great dad. We should all be so lucky.”

“He’s Italian, does he smoke?”

“No.”

“A lot of Italians smoke,” Carmen pointed out.

“In Italy. The San Diego variety are less in that wheelhouse.”

“That’s good.” Carmen sighed. “I don’t know what to tell you, Brooke. How does he kiss?”

“He hasn’t kissed me,” Brooke nearly yelled.

“Now then . . . we have a problem.”

“There hasn’t been . . . I don’t even know if—”

“Stop right there. He did not drive your sorry ass all the way to Upland to do grunt work all day if he wasn’t interested in kissing you, bellllaaa. More than that, you want him to.”

Brooke closed her eyes, and even in her own head she couldn’t convince herself that Carmen was wrong.

“Let it happen. You deserve some happiness, Brooke.”

The van with the air conditioning repair guy pulled into the driveway.

“I gotta go.”

“I want a kissing update the next time we talk,” Carmen teased.

“Love you,” Brooke said with a laugh.

“Back at ya, boo.”

She hung up.

Her best friend was such a dork.

 

 

About the Author

 

Catherine is a #1 Wall Street Journal, Amazon, and Indie Reader bestselling author. In addition, her books have also graced The New York Times and USA Today bestsellers lists. In total, she has written thirty-six beloved books that have collectively sold more than 8 million copies and have been translated into more than twenty languages.

Raised in Washington State, Bybee moved to Southern California in the hope of becoming a movie star. After growing bored with waiting tables, she returned to school and became a registered nurse, spending most of her career in urban emergency rooms. She now writes full time and has penned The Not Quite series, The Weekday Brides series, The Most Likely To series, and The First Wives series.

 

 

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads * TikTok

 

 

 

Giveaway

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

BETTING ON LOVE

 

by

 

MARY BEESLEY

 

 

RomCom / Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Wild Rose Press

Date of Publication: March 24, 2021

Number of Pages: 193 pages

 

Scroll down for the Giveaway!

 

 

 

 

Tempest Swan is out for revenge. Billionaire Leonard Allred’s software program has put her out of a job. She makes a bet with a friend that she’ll get Leonard to take her on a date so she can get retribution, but a fortuitous accident with an adorable nerd might just derail her vengeance.

Leonard has reasons for hiding his identity from the public. It’s worked well for him so far, until he starts falling for the honest and witty Tempest. But how can he destroy their budding romance by admitting he’s actually the guy she hates?

 

 

Amazon

 

 

 

 

 

Praise

 

“If I could give Betting on Love more stars I would because 5 stars aren’t enough.” -Jacky, Goodreads reader

“BEST BEACH READ!! Witty and fun and it was super hard to put down.” – Katherine, Goodreads reader

“It had just enough spice to make you feel the sparks.” – Rebecca, Goodreads reader

 

 

 

 

 

I LOVED this book. It was funny, quirky, sassy, and romantic all rolled into one. I almost couldn’t put this book down and probably wouldn’t have if we didn’t have plans with the family.

Tempest has a dry wit that tickled me. She could say just the right thing to put someone in their place or insult them but not sound insulting at all. I shouldn’t be surprised since she is a Texan woman and we learn that trait from birth.

Leo has some baggage in his life and while it didn’t win him any friends he did find his path in life especially when Tempest crashed into it one day all because of a bet she had with her best friend and roommate, Blair. Of course, Tempest doesn’t know that “Arty” is Leo and she starts falling for him. Imagine her surprise when she learns the truth about who he is?!

But the path to true love is never easy and Tempest and Leo find this out quite quickly when another twist evolves in their lives? I am not going to spoil it but when it happens you will know right off the bat what is about to happen. This event really throws their world upside down and it takes some time for them to realize that what they have together is worth everything.

I read this book at the perfect time. I needed something light, funny, and romantic and this fits the bill. I loved all of the interactions between the characters, and the different sides we saw of Tempest and Leo. I have to say that Blair makes quite the foil for this story and I think there should be a follow-up book telling her story, especially considering the ending.

I also enjoyed all of the “betting” in this story. It starts with Blair and Tempest and apparently, anytime you say the word “bet” then one is created and the stakes are never anything too crazy but a fun way to try and win what you want from the other party. I enjoyed how Tempest and Leo brought it into their interactions with one another. I think they both thought it was cheesy but went along with it to make life interesting.

There is a good supporting cast with Zena, Leo’s sister, and Dean, Leo’s assistant. We also have some funny scenes with Tempest’s sister Jo and her husband and children. I cracked up that Jo thought Leo was gay until nearly the end. Apparently, Tempest and Leo do a good job of hiding their desire for one another throughout the majority of the book.

Overall, I loved the book and give it 5 paws up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mary Beesley is a Whitney Award Nominee and received a Crowned Heart of Excellence Review and a 5-star Reader’s Favorite Award.

 

 Website  ◆  Facebook

 

Twitter ◆  Amazon  ◆  Goodreads

 

  BookBub ◆ Instagram

 

 

————————————–

 

GIVEAWAY!  GIVEAWAY!  GIVEAWAY!

 

 THREE WINNERS!

 

1st: Signed copy of Betting on Love + $25 Amazon Gift Card;

2nd & 3rd: signed copies of Betting on Love

(US only; ends midnight, CDT, 6/24/2022)

 

 

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

 

 

Visit the Lone Star Literary Life Tour Page

 

For direct links to each post on this tour, updated daily,

 

or visit the blogs directly:

 

6/14/22	Review	Boys’ Mom Reads
6/14/22	BONUS Promo	Hall Ways Blog
6/15/22	Review	Rebecca R. Cahill, Author
6/15/22	BONUS Promo	LSBBT Blog
6/16/22	Review	That’s What She’s Reading
6/17/22	Review	Shelf Life Blog
6/18/22	Review	Reading by Moonlight
6/19/22	Review	The Page Unbound
6/20/22	Review	StoreyBook Reviews
6/21/22	Review	Carpe Diem Chronicles
6/22/22	Review	Writing and Music
6/23/22	Review	Book Fidelity

 

 

 

blog tour services provided by