Review of Haven Moon (Crescent Moon Ranch Book 4) by Tess Thompson

 

Harvest Moon

She’s running from the worst night of her life. He’s the cowboy who could give her a future—if her past doesn’t catch up first.

Sammie Scott never meant for anyone to die.

All she wanted was to escape her husband’s violence and build a safe life for her daughter somewhere he could never find them. But in one terrible, life-altering moment, Sammie is forced to choose between staying to face his powerful family—and a possible murder conviction—or running to protect the only person in the world who needs her most.

So she runs.

A new name. A new town. A rented room at Crescent Moon Ranch.

Bluefern, Montana, is supposed to be temporary. A place to hide. A place to breathe. A place where her little girl can sleep without fear. But the Moon family has a way of making broken people feel like they belong, and no one does that more quietly or more dangerously than Thad Moon.

Thad is steady, kind, and protective in all the ways Sammie stopped believing a man could be. He sees too much—the way she flinches, the way she watches the door, the way she keeps one foot pointed toward escape. He knows Sammie Scott is hiding something. He is not even sure that is her real name.

But it doesn’t stop him from falling for her.

Or for her little girl.

Thad wants to offer them a home on the land his family has loved for generations, but he can’t protect them from a danger he doesn’t understand. And Sammie knows the truth could cost him more than his heart. It could bring trouble straight to the family who took her in when she had nowhere else to go.

As her past closes in, Sammie must decide whether to keep running—or trust Thad with the truth before it’s too late.

Haven Moon is a clean and wholesome, small-town cowboy romance about a single mother on the run, a protector hero, found family, healing after heartbreak, and a love strong enough to outrun the past.

Perfect for readers who love: single-mom romance, protector heroes, small-town Montana settings, ranch romance, found family, emotional healing, romantic suspense elements, cowboy heroes, and heartfelt happily ever afters.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate links included)

Check out the entire Crescent Moon Ranch series! Also in Kindle Unlimited.

**My thoughts**

We always knew that Sammie had a hidden past. She joined the ranch earlier in the series and has always kept to herself. Now we finally get to find out what she and her daughter are running from. And we finally get to watch her and Thad officially fall in love, because we have all seen it coming. 

They complement each other so well both at work and in life. Thad is protective. Sammie is nurturing. She and I both melt when we watch how easily little Chloe has taken to him. Neither one of them wants to hurt the other one.

As always happens when one runs from her former life, Sammie's past is catching up to her and threatens to take away everything she has built in this small town. True to their family legacy, the Moons are going to protect her, because Slurfpig goes beyond just the original seven. It's significant that Chloe even has one that she carries around with her! 

This installment of the series was probably the fastest one that I read. It has a suspenseful twist, all of the swoons, and just keeps you falling more and more in love with all of the characters. I also need to find a real-life Crescent Moon Ranch to visit one of these days!

Trigger warning: There are stories of abuse in this one. They don't go into graphic detail, but could still affect some readers. Domestic violence, animal cruelty, and child abuse. I appreciate that Tess included a trigger warning at the beginning of the book. 

Read an excerpt from Return to Lerici by Rachel Dacus

 

I'm a sucker for stories of second chances with families. And this one sounds like it also has plenty of suspense and intrigue to keep it even more interesting! Check out an excerpt from Return to Lerici by Rachel Dacus and then follow the tour for even more. Best of luck entering the giveaway!

Review of Summer of Georgie by Kerry Crisley

 

This debut novel from author Kerry Crisley is one of my first favorite reads for this summer! Enjoy an excerpt and then download your own copy to see what I mean. Also enjoy the playlist for Summer of Georgie that she has provided. Leave your questions and comments along the way as you follow the tour. Best of luck in the giveaway!

Read an excerpt from SEAL of Refuge (Guardians of Refuge Book 1) by Alyssa Bailey

 

Alesha loves her Alaskan island home, but two years after a painful breakup, she is still overly cautious when dating men. When a widowed Naval officer extricates her from a sticky situation, they find an instant attraction, and he steals her heart. He seems too good to be true. That’s because he is.

When the Navy offers SEAL Commander Zayden Wellesley the career opportunity of a lifetime, he accepts. Finally, things are looking up. He likes to do things orderly, and by the book, unfortunately, raising children, a SEAL’s life, and dating, rarely follow the rules. Alli doesn’t. Things are finally going according to Zed’s plan except for one little snag: he neglects to inform her he has roommates.

Soon, Zed is scrambling to protect his own, save his career, and secure his relationship before it’s too late. When things don’t go to plan and danger threatens all he holds dear, it will take the Guardians’ training and expertise to get them through safely.

He has learned to roll with the punches, can Alli?

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link)

Read an excerpt:

“What do you mean you have to quit this week? Like tomorrow?”

Commander Zayden “Zed” Wellesley rubbed the back of his neck in aggravation. Not for the first time, Zed wondered why the good Lord would give him three incredible children but take their mother away long before she raised them. He was an elite member of the military, a Navy SEAL. It was typical to divorce at least once and often more times before suffering the loss of a spouse. For seven years, he’d been one of the lucky ones.

The military had trained him to respond in every contingency, except the loss of his wife. There was no training to prepare you for that disaster, no SOP manual written to address it. Likely because there were no standard operating procedures when handling the inexplicable pain that followed that devastating loss.

“Yes. I’m sorry, but they accepted me at John Hopkins University for the nuclear biology program. Someone dropped out. I can use my scholarships, making it affordable, but I have less than two weeks to get it all together, sir.”

“Right, meaning you’ll be here tomorrow, and that’s it. Well, we need more scientists, so you’d better go. All right, kiddo, do you have any suggestions for a replacement?” he asked as he raked fingers through his military-style hair, glancing around his semi-clean kitchen trying to think.

“I wanted to tell you first, sir, then I would check for a replacement.”

“Okay, thanks and congratulations!”

“Thank you, sir. And… I’m sorry.”

Zed rubbed his face in frustration before picking up the phone in his office to dial the base, waiting for his friend and co-worker to answer.

“Mason.”

“Hey, it’s me, Zed. What’s your Commander calendar look like today?”

“Sounds serious.”

“Could be, but not urgent…”

“… Good til two. Let’s grab some chow.” He [Mason] paused, “unless it’s classified?”

“It’s personal, tied to work. My personal life ceased to be classified the moment I had to parent my family alone. I’m starving.” [Zed]

Alyssa Bailey is a USA Today and International best-selling author. She loves writing realistic romance for the naughty in all of us. Power exchange adventures between strong, intelligent, sassy women who aren’t afraid to take a stand and men confident enough to give his woman space to be who she is, but Alpha enough to keep her safe despite her choices or his, is a common theme.

Family and community are important to Alyssa, and it’s one reason she loves series. She is expanding her horizons and her comfort zone with every new book, and that’s exciting. Sometimes, suspense and mystery stir the plot, other times, it’s crazy, day to day angst, antics, and danger. Whatever goes on before, there’s always a happily-ever-after at the end of the day.

You can find Alyssa online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssabailey.romance

Twitter: @alyssabaileyak

Blog/web page: http://alyssabailey.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/Alyssa_Bailey

Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/41dff34ec838/alyssabaileynewsletter

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share books that I think will be of interest to my readers.

Review of Montana Reunion by Jen Gilroy

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

I've become a big fan of ranch romances over the last couple of years, and this one definitely fits the bill. Check out my review of Montana Reunion by Jen Gilroy and then follow the rest of the tour above for even more reviews and excerpts!

Montana Reunion

By Jen Gilroy

Clean Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 244 Pages

January 25, 2022 by Harlequin Heartwarming

An unexpected reunion
Sparks familiar feelings!

Beth Flanagan became a mother when she took in her best friend’s daughter. Spending the summer at the Montana camp where she and her friend had made such wonderful memories was meant to create a much-needed bond. But Beth didn’t anticipate Zach Carter, the boy who’d stolen her heart, to be in charge. Nor did she anticipate how quickly their feelings would reignite–though Beth vows to not fall for him again!

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository | Harlequin 

Indigo | Apple Books | Kobo | Google Play | Indie Bound | Powells

UK readers: the e-book is not available but the paperback is available via The Book Depository

**My thoughts**

I have recently fallen in love with ranch romances. This one not only fits the bill, but exceeds it. You have Beth and Zach, who are reunited now as adults. When they were teenagers, they had met at camp and had a brief summer romance, only to not see each other again. Only now their lives are different. Both have a hard time with the concept of love and feel like their lives are too busy for it. Zach has been busy caring for the family ranch and camp since his father passed away. Beth is now trying to raise her best friend Jilly's daughter Ellie after Jilly recently passed away from cancer. Becoming a guardian to a child can be tricky enough, but Ellie also suffers from an autoimmune condition that requires her to use an ambulatory wheelchair when needed. Both Zach and Beth have a lot to learn about their new roles in life.

The two of them still have an attraction to each other, though they try to deny it. Ellie unintentionally helps them along as she quickly attaches to Zach. He brings her back to life as he introduces her to the equestrian life at Camp Crocus Hill. Zach's mother Joy is eager for the two of them to rekindle their childhood romance. And unbeknownst to everyone else, Jilly is helping this along from the other side as well. Her love for her friend, even from beyond the grave, is absolutely touching.

I love the slow burn as Beth and Zach rediscover each other and start over as friends. I love how they can care for each other and are learning so much through their interactions. I also love how this author is teaching readers about autoimmune challenges and the spoon theory. People who do not have autoimmune or are not familiar with it do not understand how someone who looks "normal" on the outside can be struggling on the inside. This is a gentle way of spreading that knowledge and understanding.

And you just have to love this ranch and camp in Montana as a setting. I have never been to Montana, but now I really want to go visit. It just sounds beautiful. And I would love to visit a town like this one, because I just love how they take care of each other.

There are also a lot of other great people in this town, like Kate and her daughter, Lily. I look forward to revisiting this place in the future, because it has really left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling inside.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and Prism Book Tours for my requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Photo credit: Robin Spencer, Spencer Studio

Jen Gilroy writes sweet romance and uplifting women’s fiction—warm, feel-good stories to bring readers’ hearts home. A Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® finalist and shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists’ Association Joan Hessayon award, she lives in small-town Ontario, Canada with her husband, teenage daughter and floppy-eared rescue hound. She loves reading, ice cream, ballet and paddling her purple kayak.

Website | Newsletter | Blog | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bookbub

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive a signed print copy of Montana Reunion by Jen Gilroy (Open to US, UK, and Canada).

Ends February 9, 2022

ENTER HERE

 

Review of The Christmas Basket by Debbie Macomber

That summer—more than ten years ago, while they were still in high school—Noelle McDowell and Thomas Sutton fell secretly in love. Secretly because their mothers had been locked in a bitter feud for decades. But despite the animosity between Sarah McDowell and Mary Sutton, Noelle planned to elope with Thom. Until he jilted her.

This Christmas Noelle McDowell is home to celebrate the holidays with her family. (After all, December 25 is also her birthday.) Unfortunately, Noelle's feelings about home—or rather, her hometown of Rose, Oregon—were changed forever the day Thomas Sutton broke her heart.

This Christmas the feuding mothers find themselves working together to fill Christmas baskets for charity. What irony! And what an opportunity for reconciliation…if only they could see it.

This Christmas Noelle and Thom discover they're still in love. Regardless of their mothers' reactions, they want to be together. Is that possible? Can old rivalries be set aside? Will Sarah's Christmas daughter have a second chance with Mary's charming son?

Maybe she will…this Christmas!

Goodreads * Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

I can always count on Debbie Macomber for a heartwarming romance that is going to give me a much needed escape in my day. And while I read this Christmas story on a warm summer’s day, I still felt the holiday spirit and all of those warm fuzzies.

Not only is this a story of a second chance romance, but a story of rekindling friendships. The McDowells and Suttons have had a roller coaster of a relationship over the past several years. Clearing up misunderstandings goes a long way in healing. The Christmas season is a great time to do so.

This one will have you laughing out loud and maybe cause a little misting in the eyes as well. I loved it.

Click on a book title below to read my review of these other Debbie Macomber novels.

Call Me Mrs. Miracle

The Christmas Basket

The Forgetful Bride

Friends -- And Then Some

On a Snowy Night (An Anthology)

The Perfect Christmas

The Snow Bride

When Christmas Comes

SEAL of Refuge (Guardians of Refuge Book 1) by Alyssa Bailey

 

Alesha loves her Alaskan island home, but two years after a painful breakup, she is still overly cautious when dating men. When a widowed Naval officer extricates her from a sticky situation, they find an instant attraction, and he steals her heart. He seems too good to be true. That’s because he is.

When the Navy offers SEAL Commander Zayden Wellesley the career opportunity of a lifetime, he accepts. Finally, things are looking up. He likes to do things orderly, and by the book, unfortunately, raising children, a SEAL’s life, and dating, rarely follow the rules. Alli doesn’t. Things are finally going according to Zed’s plan except for one little snag: he neglects to inform her he has roommates.

Soon, Zed is scrambling to protect his own, save his career, and secure his relationship before it’s too late. When things don’t go to plan and danger threatens all he holds dear, it will take the Guardians’ training and expertise to get them through safely.

He has learned to roll with the punches, can Alli?

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link)

Read an excerpt:

Zayden ordered a drink and an appetizer. He’d done plenty of these types of ‘cushy’ missions following the target to nice places, infiltrating their lives as necessary, and then do the adjustment. Whatever that entailed for each job. He wouldn’t need an exfil to handle tonight’s little caper. He’d wait until they left and then follow her home to make sure the obviously over-zealous Craig kept his body parts separate from hers.

Alesha was ill at ease. As she appeared to listen to her date’s conversation, her body language screamed unease. Zed had already noted she’d removed her hand from her companion’s intruding one several times. They had ordered dinner. The service was faster than he’d expected, and they received their dinner soon after his own plate arrived. Alli was handling it well so far, so Zed refrained from making himself known and shaking the man’s hand with a little strategic twist.

Zed put down his dinner fork, preparing to intervene after the man took her fork and ate the morsel of food on it. Alesha stood. Atta girl. Zed was about to call for his check when Alli asked the waitress something, and with a nod, the woman handed her another fork. She was staying. Damn it, Alli. The woman didn’t know when to leave. Something he wanted to fix.

This Craig guy was no gentleman. Zed figured he would help him with his manners. He considered following up his rescue with a lesson in personal safety, but something told him Alesha knew exactly what she was accepting tonight. Why had she done it? Was it because of what Jenn had said, she was lonely?

Zed silently approached the couple and heard the next part of the conversation.

“What the hell,” whispered Alli. “Would you keep your hands to yourself and just eat your dinner? I should never have said yes.”

“Thought you wouldn’t mind since we’re spending the night together. We’ll be sharing more than food later.” Craig shrugged and took a bite of his own food. “You agreed to come out with me, to the most expensive restaurant in town, and to the party afterward. That’s full disclosure and agreement.”

“When hell freezes over.” As Alli pulled her napkin from her lap to toss on the table, his free hand reached out and grabbed her wrist. Craig spoke with a barely subdued snarl. “It’s polite to wait until all parties are finished with dinner before you excuse yourself.”

A deep voice, full of dangerous, silk overlaid steel, blanketed the table. “Alesha, sweetheart. I’m glad I found you.”

Alyssa Bailey is a USA Today and International best-selling author. She loves writing realistic romance for the naughty in all of us. Power exchange adventures between strong, intelligent, sassy women who aren’t afraid to take a stand and men confident enough to give his woman space to be who she is, but Alpha enough to keep her safe despite her choices or his, is a common theme.

Family and community are important to Alyssa, and it’s one reason she loves series. She is expanding her horizons and her comfort zone with every new book, and that’s exciting. Sometimes, suspense and mystery stir the plot, other times, it’s crazy, day to day angst, antics, and danger. Whatever goes on before, there’s always a happily-ever-after at the end of the day.

You can find Alyssa online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssabailey.romance

Twitter: @alyssabaileyak

Blog/web page: http://alyssabailey.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/Alyssa_Bailey

Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/41dff34ec838/alyssabaileynewsletter

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share books that I think will be of interest to my readers.

Make Me Stay by Aline Hunter

 

Do you believe in second chances? Check out this excerpt from such a story, Make Me Stay by Aline Hunter, and then download your own copy to see how Kamden and Everly do this. Make sure you let the author know what you think in the comments section. And follow the rest of the tour for even more. Best of luck entering the giveaway!

Believe in second chances.

After his heart was broken by his first love, Kamden Stone avoided romantic entanglements. He lives in the moment, taking partners who understand his desires and know things will end after one encounter. He's comfortable with the life he's carved out for himself, refusing to need anyone or anything until a young woman he can't stop thinking about changes the game.

Everly Mason moved to escape toxic family ties. All she wants is a fresh start and a new life. The house left to her is the perfect place to fall, isolated and in the middle of nowhere, providing plenty of work to keep her occupied. She's on the right path, taking things one day at a time, when she's introduced to a mysterious man she can't stop thinking about.

Despite everything, Kamden and Everly can't deny their chemistry. When they agree to a trial period, curious to see where things will go between them, they discover they need each other in a way they never thought possible. When the time comes, they'll have to accept what they want and need. To be together, they both have to find a reason to make them stay.

Read an excerpt:

"You wanted to bring me here, right? Things will stay like this unless you talk to me." When he didn't say anything, she took a chance. She reached out and placed her fingers on his forearm. His head turned, his eyes resting on her hand, then slowly inched up. She met his gaze, determined and unafraid. "I want you to talk to me. I want to understand." Because she felt like he needed to hear it, she told him, "You don't know me either, but when you do, you'll find out you can trust me."

Slowly, as though pained, he released the steering wheel and rested his hand over hers. She tried to place the look in his eyes. He was a good man. She'd learned that while visiting his parents. They told her he could have moved away a long time ago, going to live with his brother in Tennessee, but decided to build a small house on the opposite side of their property. He lived nearby to watch over them, always ready to make their lives easier, visiting them often to make sure they were taken care of.

He gazed down at their hands, brushed his thumb over her knuckles, and then his golden-brown eyes returned to her face. She wanted to crawl over, climb into his lap, and twine her fingers in his hair.

"We'll talk in Penny's," he said softly.

"Promise?" she asked, hoping she wouldn't scare him away.

His lips parted, and he almost responded.

Then he looked away and nodded. She wanted to understand the man who'd been on her mind for weeks. She'd been captivated the minute she'd spoken to him. If he was willing to reveal himself, she was more than ready to listen.

Buy Links

Amazon * BN * Kobo * iBooks * Smashwords * Universal Books2Read

(affiliate links included)

Aline Hunter has written stories featured in horror magazines, zombie romance anthologies, and flash fiction contests. Her work has a dark undertone, which she credits to her love of old horror films, tastes in music, and choices in reading, and has been described as “full of sensual promise,” “gritty and sexy,” and “a breath of fresh air.”

You can visit her online at www.alinehunter.com

Contact Links

Website: www.alinehunter.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JASaare.AlineHunter

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlineHunter

Blog: https://jasaare.blogspot.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4078652.Aline_Hunter

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasaare_alinehunter/

Other(s): FB Private Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/494092794964081

Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/ff14ef4dceb5/ja-saare-aline-hunter-newsletter

Aline Hunter will be awarding,United States only, a Special Book Themed gift basket to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review of Summer's End by Olivia Miles

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the book tour for Summer's End by Olivia Miles! Earlier this week, I shared an excerpt from the book over at Candrel's Crafts, Cooks, and Characters. Today I am sharing my thoughts in a book review. Enjoy, download your own copy, and then follow the tour for more. Best of luck entering the giveaway!

Summer's End

(Evening Island #2)

By Olivia Miles

Women's Fiction, Romance

Paperback & ebook, 201 Pages

Date 2020 by Rosewood Press

The USA Today bestselling author of the Oyster Bay series invites readers to return to Evening Island for a heartwarming, stand-alone story about three sisters at very different crossroads in their lives who reunite for one unforgettable summer at their family's lake house.

The Taylor sisters spent every summer at their family’s lake house, but as they grew up, they also grew apart. Now, in honor of their late mother’s wishes, they reunite on Evening Island, each hoping to find the best part of themselves they’d left behind.

Kim is just weeks away from what should be her dream wedding, but as the big day draws closer, her doubts only grow stronger. Some time away may be just the thing she needs to help clear her head…or change her heart.

Heather has always been the reliable sister, but a recent divorce has made everything feel uncertain. When a second chance with an old flame comes along, she must decide if a summer love can last a lifetime.

Andrea’s career is her top priority, even if her heart is no longer in it. When her boss suggests a vacation, a couple of weeks on the island leads to the inspiration she was searching for, and not just for work…

Thanks to the beauty of the island and the memories they share, the sisters come together, search their hearts, and discover what the future holds for each of them at summer’s end.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | 

Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

**My thoughts**

I really attached to this book from the start and not just because I have a namesake as a character. I related to all three of the sisters on different levels. I think part of the attachment was understanding that discombobulating and numbing grief that happens after you lose your mother. Theirs has been gone just about a year and mine has been gone for almost three. It's something you don't understand until you've gone through it.

Kim feels lost and is losing even more of herself as her future mother-in-law is slowly taking over every aspect of her wedding. Now she isn't sure what she really wants out of love and life. Heather is trying to find herself again after her divorce and has found that she has lost her knack for writing. Andrea just buries herself deeper and deeper into her work, but has lost that spark that had pushed her so far up until the past year.

The three of them also aren't very close. They have drifted over the years as they each pursue different avenues, even though they live in the same city. There's that tie of mutual loss that could bring them together, if they ever let themselves acknowledge it. And that's what happens when Kim decides they need to go to the family cottage of Evening Island. This impromptu two-week trip gives the girls a chance to rekindle their sisterhood and to find their own personal second chances in love and life. It's heartwarming to witness.

The island itself is its own character. I'm guessing Evening Island is modeled after Mackinac Island, which is a magical place to visit. I flashed back to my own childhood and a trip up there with my mother and sister, which I think was something else that made me attach to this book.

This is one of those warm and fuzzy stories where you watch the characters rediscover themselves and find happiness in life, without it being overly cheesy. I could see it playing out on the screen.

I also enjoyed meeting other characters on the island and really wanted to know more about their neighbor and friend Gemma's story. I was delighted to find out that her story is the first in the series, so now I have to go read that. And don't worry, in spite of this book being the second in the series, it's completely a standalone. Reading the first is not necessary to fully enjoy this one.

I hope there are more stories to come in this series. I really enjoyed this and am planning to check out more of Olivia's stories.

I received a requested review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

Meet Me at Sunset

(Evening Island #1)

By Olivia Miles

Women's Fiction/Romance

Paperback & ebook, 324 Pages

February 25, 2020 by Rosewood Press

From USA TODAY bestselling author Olivia Miles comes the first in a collection of stand-alone novels set on the fictional shores of Evening Island—just a ferry ride across the lake from Blue Harbor, home to the newest heartwarming series!

The Morgan sisters spent many blissful summers at their family's lake house growing up, but as they grew older, their lives took very different paths.

Hope adores her twin girls, but she doesn't love being a stay-at-home mom. When her workaholic husband doesn't support her career aspirations, she packs up the kids and goes to Sunset Cottage, thinking that some time apart will help her decide what she really wants-but when the life she dreamed of becomes a possibility, she is more torn than ever.

Gemma was supposed to be planning her wedding, not trying to get back deposits. And she was supposed to be finished writing her latest romance novel, not staring at a blank screen. Lost and down on her luck, she heads north to Evening Island, hoping to find the inspiration she needs to fill the page, and maybe, her heart.

Ellie is almost perfectly content living in the house that once belonged to her grandmother, even if it does get a little lonely sometimes. Still, work is steady at her art studio and the island continues to serve as a muse, especially when her first love makes a surprise return.

In the course of a month, the Morgan sisters learn that despite their differences and their personal struggles, they might just have more in common than the old summer cottage that they inherited.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Apple Books

About the Author

Olivia Miles is a USA Today bestselling author of heartwarming women’s fiction and small-town contemporary romance. She has frequently been ranked as an Amazon Top 100 author, and her books have appeared on several bestseller lists, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, BookScan, and USA Today. Treasured by readers across the globe, Olivia’s novels have been translated into German, French, and Hungarian, with editions in Australia and the United Kingdom. After growing up in New England and later living in Montreal, Olivia traded salt water for fresh water, and is most happy reading on the sandy shore of Lake Michigan, or spending time with her husband, daughter, and two lovable dogs.

Website | Goodreads | Bookbub | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Amazon | Newsletter

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

Ten winners will receive a print copy of Summer's End (US only)

Ends July 15, 2021

ENTER HERE

Review of The Truth About Unspeakable Things by Emily A. Myers

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the book tour for The Truth About Unspeakable Things by Emily A. Myers. It's an intense story. And trigger warning: sexual assault and fallout. But I was intrigued by this story and am sharing my thoughts below. Be sure to check out the rest of the tour as well for excerpts and other people's thoughts. Best of luck entering the giveaway!

The Truth About Unspeakable Things

By Emily A. Myers

Women's Fiction

Paperback & ebook, 284 Pages

April 2, 2021

“He did more than break your heart, didn’t he?”

Emma Marshall is haunted by memories of a horrific attack she can’t bury deep enough. Most of all, Emma is haunted by fear — fear that she will never be free of her abusive ex’s control, fear she will never be able to trust another man again.

No one knows the unspeakable truth of what happened between Emma and her ex-fiancé Beaux. It’s a secret Emma plans to carry to the grave, until Julian Cole, a music executive with a dark past of his own, moves in next door and opens Emma’s mind and heart to the possibility of love after a violent betrayal. As the reporter and music executive grow closer in the historic French Quarter of New Orleans, Emma realizes she must face her past in order to heal and move forward with Julian. But Emma soon learns Beaux will do anything to keep his sins a secret.

Emma must risk everything to protect her newfound happiness and Julian from Beaux’s threats. Putting her investigative skills to good use, Emma embarks on a dangerous journey to gather evidence and bring Beaux to justice. But the deeper Emma gets into Beaux’s wicked world, the more complicated things become. How far will Beaux go to keep his secrets? How far will Emma go to protect the ones she loves? Find out in this women’s empowerment thriller about life and love after abuse.

(Affiliate links included.)

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**My thoughts**

This story is intense. Emma endures horrific abuse from her ex-fiance, which is slowly revealed throughout the course of the novel. If you're sensitive to sexual abuse, then this will not be the book for you. To me, what is almost as horrifying is the fact that Emma never reported it and holds this secret deep within her. She's suffering terribly from the after-effects, and has actually forgotten some of the details. As often happens, they do later bubble up, making it all worse. It's absolutely heartbreaking.

Thank goodness for her new neighbor, Julian. He has plenty of his own secrets and problems, but gets her on a level that no one else does. While there are moments where he is her knight in shining armor, more importantly, he inspires her to take charge of her life and take it back.

There's plenty of action and drama to keep you glued to the pages. I can see this one playing out on the screen, most likely in a miniseries format. It's jam-packed with emotion as well. And I think it has some lessons for readers and could provide some great conversations. Not everyone is going to be able to take matters in their own hands in the same way that Emma does, of course, but in general, she is inspiring.

I received a requested review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the Author

Emily A. Myers is a Women’s Fiction author based in Louisiana. Her debut novel, The Truth About Unspeakable Things, sets the tone for Emily’s future works as it follows a young woman’s journey through the dangerous pitfalls of adult relationships and the complexities of growing up. In addition to writing fiction, Emily also dedicates time to her blog, which helps other aspiring authors turn their passion into their profession, and her Facebook community for women in which she posts exclusive interviews with inspiring women from all areas of life. Learn more about Emily at emilyamyers.com Follow her on Facebook and Instagram @emilymyersauthor for real-time updates.

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Review of Blue Twilight (Blue Mountain #5) by Tess Thompson

Death came between them in high school. Will solving a painful cold case bring them together at last?

Carlie Webster remains haunted by the past. After a messy failed marriage sends her packing for her small hometown, she relives the memories of her sister’s thirty-year-old unsolved murder. But when rekindled sparks fly with the suspected killer’s brother, Carlie must clear his sibling’s name if she wants a shot at second-chance love.

Cole Paisley has never shaken his family’s dark reputation. Finally returning after merciless rumors forced them out three decades ago, the recent divorcé is stunned to discover the girl who stole his heart is also back home and available. And when she finds a secret diary in the walls of her childhood house, he’s determined to help her catch the killer and prove his brother’s innocence.

Desperate for closure in her sister’s tragic story, the amateur sleuth feels growing comfort in the man she always believed was her destiny. And when the journal reveals a shocking detail, Cole and Carlie must uncover the town’s shameful secret to finally understand what really happened.

Will Carlie and Cole finally get to the truth and find the happiness they deserve?

Blue Twilight is the fifth book in the page-turning Blue Mountain: Logan Bend contemporary romance series. If you like relatable characters, small-town drama, and a juicy mystery, then you’ll adore Tess Thompson’s exciting tale.

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**My thoughts**

Blue Twilight is the fifth story in the series, but is completely a standalone as it introduces a new cast of characters to the area. This coming group of stories take place in a nearby town called Logan Bend, at the base of Logan Mountain. But you’ll have some visits from some recognizable faces in this one.

Blue Twilight reminds me of why I fell in love with this series at the start and why it is my favorite. We start off with the prologue from when the characters are all teenagers. (And you can read this whole prologue for free in a separate download.)

Carlie and Cole are just starting to discover their young teenage love for each other when an unthinkable tragedy pulls them apart.

Move forward 30 years and Cole has moved back to Logan Bend. Carlie is back to help her mom clean out the house so it can be sold. The two have not seen each other in those 30 years until they run into each other at the store. Their meeting brings up all kinds of feelings – the pain of what happened 30 years ago, further self-examination following failed marriages, and most importantly, a realization that they never stopped loving each other. There is so much introspection and emotion, which for me is the magic within this series.

They do become embroiled in the mystery around the tragedy, especially as new evidence has come to light. The truth is proving to be quite dangerous, but especially Carlie is determined to solve it. I did feel that the big reveal where all of our questions are finally answered was a little clunky. But the overall story was quite enjoyable and fulfilled me emotionally. I am looking forward to more in Logan Bend.

Review of On the Edge by Claire Gillies

 

Welcome to the book tour for On the Edge by Claire Gillies! Today I'm sharing with you an excerpt as well as a few thoughts on the book. Then the author tells us about what she would do if she had a time machine. It's interesting! Let her know your thoughts in the comments section. And then be sure to follow the tour for even more. Best of luck in the giveaway!

Catherine MacGregor spends life daydreaming her way out of the perils of a dead-end job, and a dwindling love-life. Rather than face imminent redundancy, Cat finds herself giving up her life in the city, and moving to a remote Scottish island for a fresh start.

Unlocking her passion for art, things have never looked better, until the handsome but elusive musician Patrick Flannagan takes to the stage, complicating her best-laid plans.

Cat’s past could be catching up with her at last. Can she unlock her own secrets, and learn to love again, in time to save her brave new beginnings?

Read an excerpt:

Before Cat could grasp her drink, she was approached by a younger man who looked a little nervous.

“Would you like to dance?” With his open, earnest baby-face, Cat put him at about eighteen, and was flattered.

“Yes, why not!” She fanned her face, trying to recover from the previous dance, ready to launch into another. This one was different, still with a deal of twirling, but with variations involving kicks and a burst of graceful hopping. Cat laughed as she missed a few steps, trying to keep up both with the music and her partner. She loved the movement and the strength of the steps; they made her feel so alive, like her stint swimming in the sea earlier that month. Her partner spun her around one last time, and the music stopped suddenly, and everyone clapped again. The fiddler started playing on his own, a much slower waltz to which Cat was about to start gliding with her partner, until a cough came from behind them.

“May I interrupt?” Patrick smiled, and looked down at them both.

“We’re just about to dance!” the boy said “Go find your own partner Paddy!”

“Come on now, Archie!” laughed Patrick, “you know I’m only good at the slow dances and there’s lots of girls lined up by the wall over there just waiting for you to ask them!”

The boy looked at Cat, then at Patrick, considering his prospects for a few moments. “OK then,” he finished reluctantly, handing his partner over without any more complaint, heading quickly in the direction of the waiting girls.

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**My thoughts**

Cat really seems like a lost soul. She has lost touch with what she really loves in life and is completely stuck in a rut. I admire her for taking charge and deciding to start all over. I know from personal experience that it is difficult to pack up and move to somewhere completely brand new. 

She slowly makes relationships around the island and over time not only learns how to love again, but learns how to love herself again. It's something that I think a lot of us need to do, even though most of us are not going to move to a new island to do so.

She also seems a bit naive, but is able to figure things out. I also felt total empathy with her loss of her mother.

The story moved a little slow for me, but I enjoyed learning a lot of new Scottish terminology and about some Scottish culture along the way. I don't think I've ever read a book that takes place in Scotland before and I have always wanted to visit. (I have some Scottish heritage.) I'd really like to visit this island and have an extended stay there, I think.

And of course, one always loves a good-looking musician.

I received a requested review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

You discover a time machine. Where and when would you go to and why?

This is a fun question, although it took me some time to mull it over. History fascinates me, particularly Scottish history. I am from the highlands of Scotland and my local area is steeped in history - Bonnie Prince Charlie arrived on our shores at the start of the Jacobite uprising in 1745. He then continued his journey to Glenfinnan, where he declared his intension and rallied the clans. All these points in history happened in our landscape. We still have seven old beech trees at the end of a nearby field overlooking the water, which were planted long ago in tribute to the first seven men of Moidart, who were with the Bonnie Prince. As interesting as I find this, it's not a time I think I'd want to visit. Being a woman in the highlands around then would have been dangerous, especially just after Culloden. However, I like that period of time, but perhaps a little later on in that century....

Robert Burns is a national treasure, he was a poet who wrote hundreds of works. We celebrate him every year in Scotland - more than our national St Andrews Day! Around the world at New Year, Auld Lang Syne is sung, a song by Robert Burns (or Rabbie, as we call him). He was known as a ladies' man and would fall in love easily, even though he was married! He belonged to the lowlands, but romanticised the highlands. I would love to meet him; he was born to humble beginnings in a farming family but later he would be greatly sought after by the upper classes. I can imagine him in some recital room in Edinburgh, being fussed over by the wealthy, while his eye scanned the ladies. I would be quite content in my 18th century garb, fanning myself on a summer evening, listening to the bard himself recite poetry in an echoey hall.

Born and raised in the Highlands of Scotland, Claire’s homeland continues to be a stream of inspiration for her. A clothing designer too, Claire (Lorna) creates one-off bespoke garments using Scottish tweeds and tartans.

Claire currently splits her time between Scotland and Australia with her lovely Irish husband. She is a cat lover (without the cat) and can be found either drinking coffee, researching the best cake haunts, or watching yet another costume drama!

www.clairegillies.com

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Claire Gillies will be awarding a signed copy of the book. (International) to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

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Review of Her Inconvenient Christmas Reunion by Nina Singh

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the took tour for Her Inconvenient Christmas Reunion by Nina Singh! 'Tis the season for holiday romance and second chances for sure! I'm sharing my thoughts on this book with you today. Please be sure to follow the tour for even more!

Her Inconvenient Christmas Reunion

By Nina Singh

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 256 Pages

November 1, 2020 by Harlequin Romance

Can a mistletoe kiss…

…heal the past?

When Zayn walks back into Izzy’s life, years after he was forced to walk out of it, she’s faced with the undeniable attraction that’s never faded. Finding themselves co-owners of the vineyard that means so much to Izzy makes tensions run high! But then she’s seduced into a kiss under the Parisian Christmas lights… Can Izzy find it in her heart to forgive the man who once broke it?

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**My thoughts**
I'm a sucker for second chance romances, especially around the holidays. And the bonus to this one is that it also takes place in a winery. It's a very formulaic plot that I have read many times. But the nuances of the journey make reading it quite a lovely adventure.

Zayn and Izzy were a thing back in the day. They have a long history that extends back into high school. But then suddenly, Zayn disappeared with no explanation, completely devastating Izzy in the process.

Fast forward 5 years and they have both inherited this winery, but have completely different visions of how it should be run. Being at odds over the winery, compounded by their mutual attraction that has never died over these years, plus complications from deep-seeded family issues that still have not resolved, makes for a volatile situation.

It's a second chance romance, and the two of them find themselves trying to rekindle that romance before they ever reconcile the past break-up, which surprised me a bit because especially Izzy was in great need of closure. At the same time, this allows for a bit more drama as they navigate their reconciliation, those aforementioned family issues, and trying to figure out what to do with the winery.

(Side bar, I really feel like I need to get back to Paris, preferably with an attractive male companion!)

So again, it's an enjoyable second chance romance that kept me occupied on a rainy weekend. I don't think I have read any of Nina's books before, but she is an author I will keep an eye out for in the future!

Thank you to the author, Harlequin, and Prism Book Tours for providing me with a requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

About the Author

Nina Singh lives outside of Boston with her husband, children, and a very rambunctious Yorkie. When not at her keyboard, she likes to spend time on the tennis court or immersed in a good read.

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Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive an ebook of Her Billionaire Protector by Nina Singh and a $20 Amazon eGift Card

Four Winners will receive an ebook of Her Billionaire Protector by Nina Singh

US only
Ends November 18, 2020

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