Can't Wait for... The Booklover's Library by Madeline Martin (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #womensfiction #histfic #historicalfiction #wwii #thebookloverslibrary @Hanover_Square

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I love books about books and libraries and also love WWII stories, so this one sound like a perfect read for me. I have this author's previous book also on my list to read. Have you read it? Let me know in comments. It's my pick this week...

The Booklover's Library

By Madeline Martin

Historical Fiction, WWII, Women's Fiction

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 432 Pages

September 10, 2024 by Hanover Square Press

Summary

“A must-read for booklovers.” —Chanel Cleeton, New York Times bestselling author of Next Year in Havana

A heartwarming story about a mother and daughter in wartime England and the power of books that bring them together, by the bestselling author of The Last Bookshop in London.

In Nottingham, England, widow Emma Taylor finds herself in desperate need of a job. She and her beloved daughter Olivia have always managed just fine on their own, but with the legal restrictions prohibiting widows with children from most employment opportunities, she’s left with only one option: persuading the manageress at Boots’ Booklover’s Library to take a chance on her with a job.

When the threat of war in England becomes a reality, Olivia must be evacuated to the countryside. In the wake of being separated from her daughter, Emma seeks solace in the unlikely friendships she forms with her neighbors and coworkers, and a renewed sense of purpose through the recommendations she provides to the library’s quirky regulars. But the job doesn’t come without its difficulties. Books are mysteriously misshelved and disappearing and the work at the lending library forces her to confront the memories of her late father and the bookstore they once owned together before a terrible accident.

As the Blitz intensifies in Nottingham and Emma fights to reunite with her daughter, she must learn to depend on her community and the power of literature more than ever to find hope in the darkest of times.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target

Will you be reading this one?

The start of a new Viking fantasy... Winter's Maiden by Morgan L. Busse (Review & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #wintersmaiden #christfic #fantasy #christianfantasy @enclavebooks @celebrate_lit

Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review and enter the giveaway below...

Winter's Maiden

(The Nordic Wars #1)

By Morgan L. Busse

Christian Adult Viking Fantasy

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 288 Pages

August 6, 2024 by Enclave Publishing

Summary

Warrior. Survivor. Daughter of the North.

From the moment she is born, Brighid fights to survive in the wastelands of Nordica as a clanless one. But when a new power arrives offering a trial to join the Nordic warriors, Brighid enters, hoping to rise above her station. Soon she becomes one of their fiercest fighters and joins the war against the south.

Kaeden carries the blood of the ancient Eldaran race in his veins but turns away from his heritage after the death of his parents. Years later, he is called back to his homeland and invited to be a healer for the southern forces. With the help of an old mentor, the power inside of him starts to awaken. However, his life is turned upside down when a mighty warrior of the Nordic forces is captured.

As Kaeden interacts with the enemy, he discovers there is a darkness behind the Nordic Wars, one that is manipulating the people of the north. But who will believe him? And is there a power strong enough to break the hold of this hidden adversary? Or will the world burn in the flames of war?

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Christianbook

My Review

WINTER'S MAIDEN is a story of one young woman trying to survive in a destitute life and then in a war-fueled society. Set in a similar historical period as the Viking Era, but in a fantasy world with magical aspects and a powerful being called the Word who has given these magical powers to some to serve and save others. The world is intriguing with likable characters and an engaging plot. Recommended to Christian fantasy fans.

These characters grew on me. I didn't love Brighid right away. I liked her more as she started coming into her own and figuring some things out. Kaeden I liked immediately, although his complaining or hesitancy was a bit frustrating at first. They're both strong, fierce, and want to do what is right. They're both unsure exactly what that is and, Brighid especially, want to survive, but they're on their own paths to figure things out. I liked both of their small groups as well. Brighid has two main friends she fights with that I really liked and a clan leader who I think will have a stronger part to play in her life in the future. Kaeden has healer friends that I liked. He also has quite a lot of opposition from those who should be on his side. The story itself was intriguing. It started out slow but picks up by a third of the way through and then is pretty much all action to the very end.

I struggled with a few parts of this story. The first third felt more like a middle grade book than a young adult or adult one. I think the emotions and dialogue leant that feeling. The dialogue was a bit stinted and felt unrealistic. It did get a bit better, but I think the author does better with fighting scenes and dialogue. I struggle sometimes with stories like this and that happened with this one for me. The religious aspects felt overly strong and too similar to current religion instead of being weaved through more subtly and being a bit more different since the story is set in a fantasy world. This won't be an issue for some other Christian readers.

In the end, was it what I wished for? I enjoyed this story and am curious to see what will happen in book two of this series. The two main characters are easy to cheer on and I'd like to see them eventually be triumphant in their missions. Fans of the author and Christian fantasy should enjoy this one.

Content: A lot of nondescriptive war violence.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Morgan L. Busse is a writer by day and a mother by night. She is the author of multiple series including The Ravenwood Saga and Skyworld series. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist and won the INSPY, Selah, and Carol Award for best in Christian speculative fiction. During her spare time she enjoys playing games, taking long walks, and dreaming about her next novel.

Find the author here.

Tour Schedule

The Lofty Pages, August 15

Madi’s Musings, August 15

By the Book, August 16

Texas Book-aholic, August 17

Inklings and notions , August 18

Where Faith and Books Meet, August 19

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 21

Simple Harvest Reads, August 22 (Guest Review from Mindy)

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 22

Blossoms and Blessings , August 23

Stories By Gina, August 24 (Author Interview)

Romances of the Cross, August 24

Labor Not in Vain, August 25

Hannahbandanarama, August 26

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, August 26

Wishful Endings, August 27

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 28

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Morgan is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

ENTER HERE

Have you read any of this author's other books? Have you read any other books with Vikings? 

An intriguing and heartfelt read... The Naturalist's Daughter by Tea Cooper (Review) #newbooks #bookx #histfic #historicalfiction #thenaturalistsdaughter #teacooper @harpermusebooks @austenprose

Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review below...

The Naturalist's Daughter

By Tea Cooper

Historical Fiction, Time-Slip, Women's Fiction, Romance

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 368 Pages

August 20, 2024 by Harper Muse

Summary

Two fearless women—living a century apart—find themselves entangled in the mystery surrounding the biggest scientific controversy of the nineteenth century: the classification of the platypus.

1808 Agnes Banks, NSW

Rose Winton wants nothing more than to work with her father, eminent naturalist Charles Winton, on his groundbreaking study of the platypus. Not only does she love him with all her heart but the discoveries they have made could turn the scientific world on its head. When Charles is unable to make the long sea journey to present his findings to the prestigious Royal Society in England, Rose must venture forth in his stead. What she discovers will forever alter the course of scientific history.

1908 Sydney, NSW

Tamsin Alleyn has been given a mission: travel to the Hunter Valley and retrieve an old sketchbook of debatable value, gifted to the Public Library by a recluse. But when she gets there, she finds there is more to the book than meets the eye, and more than one interested party. Shaw Everdene, a young antiquarian bookseller and lawyer, seems to have his own agenda when it comes to the book. Determined to uncover the book's true origin, Tamsin agrees to join forces with him.

The deeper they delve, the more intricate the mystery of the book's authorship becomes. As the lives of two women a century apart converge, discoveries emerge from the past with far-reaching consequences in this riveting tale of courage and discovery.

(Affiliate links included.)

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My Review

THE NATURALIST'S DAUGHTER is a story of discover, family, perseverance, and love set mostly in Australia. One woman seeks to represent her father and his discoveries. Another seeks to prove those same discoveries years later. Both fight for their place as women in their world and society, and in a field that is predominately men. Highly recommended to historical fiction fans who are looking for a story both intriguing and heartfelt.

This is a steadily paced story that shifts from the early 1800s to the early 1900s related to the discoveries of the platypus in Australia. The shifts from one time to the other were handled fairly well. There were a few times I was really invested in what was happening and then it shifted to the other storyline, which pulled me out of the story. This wasn't often though as I found both storylines interesting. There were a few climatic moments and the story continued to build in emotional intensity as it progressed and reached towards the end, which made me want to turn the pages faster. I also really liked all the characters, Rose as she emulates and then represents someone very important to her, and then Tamsin as she fights for what she believes is right while also trying not to fall for the charming solicitor. It was honestly an enjoyable story from beginning to end, even in my frustration with some of the societal constrictions of the time, and the dishonestly, sexism, and racism of some of the people.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a very interesting story about a subject and premise that I haven't come across before in any of my other reading. It was well written, with fully fleshed characters, and a story that kept me engaged from start to finish. I'm planning to read this author's previous works and look forward to her next release!

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Tea Cooper is an established Australian author of historical fiction. In a past life, she was a teacher, a journalist, and a farmer. These days she haunts museums and indulges her passion for storytelling. She is the internationally bestselling author of several novels, including The Naturalist’s Daughter; the USA TODAY bestselling The Woman in the Green Dress; The Girl in the Painting, The Cartographer's Secret, winner of the prestigious Daphne du Maurier Award; and The Fossil Hunter.

You can find the author here.

Have you read any other time-slips or books about historical natural discoveries?

Can't Wait for... Across the Star-Kissed Sea by Arlem Hawks (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks #historicalromance #cleanreads #cleanromance #romancebooks @arlemhawks @ShadowMountn @ProperRomance

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I loved this author's last Proper Romance title, Georgana's Secret! It was a five-star read for me, so I'm definitely looking forward to this next one. It's my pick this week...

Across the Star-Kissed Sea

(A Proper Romance)

By Arlem Hawks

Historical Romance, Clean & Wholesome

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 288 Pages

October 1, 2024 by Shadow Mountain

Summary

When May becomes a lady’s maid at sea, she’s hoping for an innocent adventure but instead must navigate rough waters, deadly combat, and unexpected love.

1811, Mediterranean Sea

May Byam grew up following her father to his work at the ropemaking factory and listening to her uncle’s tales of life aboard a Royal Navy ship. After tragedy and scandal shatter her family, May is desperate to escape the shame that follows her. Despite her mother’s pleadings against it, May signs on as a lady’s maid to the young wife of a naval captain. If she’s going to run, she may as well do it in honor of her late uncle and cousin and where there is food, shelter, and perhaps even adventure. But the frosty reception she receives from the ship’s clergyman makes her feel far from welcome.

Heartbroken young Chaplain Elias Doswell returns to a harsh life at sea, but preaching to disinterested sailors isn’t the escape he’d hoped—until a captivating young woman boards the ship. However, a case of mistaken identity ensures that he starts off on the wrong foot with the newly hired lady’s maid, who clearly wants nothing to do with him. But the close quarters of the ship forces the pair together, and May begins to see a side of the handsome clergyman she didn’t expect. As they struggle to navigate their deepening feelings, the danger of war with the French looms on the horizon, threatening their lives—and their love.

(Affiliate links included.)

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Will you be reading this one?

An engrossing gothic mystery... The Lies of Alma Blackwell by Amanda Glaze (Review & Mood Board) #newbooks #bookx #yalit #yabooks #witches #ghoststories #gothic #TheLiesOfAlmaBlackwell #TBRBeyondTours #AmandaGlaze @tbrbeyondtours @UnionSqandCo

Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review below...

The Lies of Alma Blackwell

By Amanda Glaze

Young Adult Gothic Mystery, Romance, Paranormal

Hardcover & eBook, 384 Pages

August 27, 2024 by Union Square & Co.

Summary

Atmospheric and sweepingly romantic, this gothic mystery tells the story of a girl poised to inherit a famously haunted California mansion and a stranger who arrives with a dark warning...

For over a century, the Blackwells have protected the town of Hollow Cliff from vengeful spirits.

Seventeen-year-old Nev is ready to take over for her ailing grandmother as the town’s witch protector—unlike her mother, who left when Nev was a child and never looked back.

When a stranger arrives at Blackwell House of Spirits to fill a tour guide opening, Nev reluctantly offers him the job.

Nev doesn’t trust Cal. He knows more than he’s letting on about Blackwell House—and about Nev herself.

But Nev soon learns that she has been lied to her whole life. By following the trail of clues left behind in Blackwell House by her most powerful witch ancestor, Nev uncovers an unspeakable legacy of murder and lies...and realizes that a stranger may be the one person she can trust.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target

My Review

THE LIES OF ALMA BLACKWELL is one of those stories that grips you from the beginning and never lets go. Skillfully written with likable characters and a plot full of mystery, it's a story that keeps readers guessing and engrossed as they figure things out along with the characters. Highly recommended to YA paranormal fans who like a bit of magic in their contemporary gothic stories.

Read this book if you like:
- Gothic-feeling stories
- Possible ghosts in the closet
- Witchy magic
- Small, coastal towns
- Shrouded mystery
- Likeable characters
- Sweet romance

This story sucked me in from the first page. The author did such a fabulous job of creating this small town and a house shrouded in shadows of mystery. The ghost-like and gothic feeling was definitely prevalent. I could literally feel the atmosphere flow from the pages. The characters were interesting and likable with their own unanswered questions. I never felt like there was an info dump or like I was being told the story. Instead, I got to experience the mystery with the characters and figure things out as they did. I also really loved Nev as well as Cal. There were some proper villains as well as some morally gray characters. I enjoyed the emotional and suspenseful way this story intensified as it met its climax and then resolved in a sweet ending.

In the end, was it what I wished for? I really enjoyed this one, including that it was a standalone. Definitely a page-turner, and one I'd recommend to YA paranormal or gothic fans!

Content: Some swearing (a few s-words), some abuse and ritual violence/sacrifice, nondescriptive murder, a lesbian relationship.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through TBR & Beyond Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Mood Board

About the Author

Amanda Glaze writes witchy books about determined girls. Her bestselling debut novel, The Second Death of Edie and Violet Bond, was a Barnes & Noble Book Club pick and a Rise Booklist Honoree. She grew up in Northern California where she spent most of her time with her nose in a book or putting on plays with friends. Since then, she’s lived many lives: as a bookseller, a theater director, and an Emmy award-winning film and television producer. When she’s not running off to the mountains, she lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their two cat familiars.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Tour Schedule

Follow the tour here.

Did you read this author's debut? Have you read any other ghost stories? What are your thoughts on this one?

A story set in lush post-war Europe... The Winged Tiara by J'nell Ciesielski (Review) #newbooks #bookx #romancebooks #histfic #historicalfiction #heist #TheWingedTiara #JnellCiesielski #austenprosepr @tnzfiction @austenprose

Welcome to my tour stop! ...

The Winged Tiara

By J'nell Ciesielski

Historical Romance

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 352 Pages

August 13, 2024 by Thomas Nelson

Summary

Diamonds and danger dazzle in Ciesielski's latest enchanting romp through post-war Europe as estranged spouses and jewel thieves hunt an elusive Valkyrie tiara.

November 12, 1918. It was a match made in champagne-soaked heaven, but all too soon the bubbles dried up, and Esme Fox awakens the morning after celebrating the end of the Great War to find herself shockingly and accidentally married. She gathers her belongings and slips out before her new husband can stop her. After all, she knows it's best to leave before he does.

Four years later, Jasper Truitt, after having made a name for himself in the underground world of jewel thieves, is on the hunt for a valuable heirloom: a one-of-a-kind winged tiara--the last Valkyrie tiara ever created. So it's with great surprise that he discovers it at a charity event atop the head of a woman he's never forgotten. His long-lost wife . . . who happens to be pursuing the tiara for a vengeful opera diva desperate to obtain the jewel for herself.

The reunion is cut short when Esme vanishes--again--but their separation is temporary. With a hitman on their heels and a deadline looming, the pair find themselves in an epic game of cat and mouse across Europe following leads from the French Riviera to a shop of wonders in Venice, a fairy-tale castle in Bavaria, and a veritable circus thrown by a champagne heiress, all before a dramatic horseback flight through the French countryside.

In the end only one can win, and with both of their hearts on the line, the winner may well turn out to be the loser.

In her latest glamorous historical romance, J'nell Ciesielski spins a sparkling story filled with her signature snappy dialogue and vivid atmosphere that will keep you reading late into the night to see what happens next.

(Affiliate links included.)

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My Review

THE WINGED TIARA is about a man and woman who recklessly get married for barely a day before she slips away and then stumble across each other years later. They end up trying to steal the same priceless heirloom for their own personal reasons and unintentionally working together. There's a lot of romantic sparks, a bit of danger and suspense, and a sweet ending.

This story felt very flowy and nostalgic. It's richly written so you felt like you're experiencing the lushness of Europe during this time period with the wild abandon of the world after WWI. The characters were interesting. I liked Jasper the most as I felt he was more honest with himself and others. He also wanted a real relationship and a genuine good life of his own in spite of his childhood and situation. Esme had a rough upbringing as well, but it turned her cynical and distrustful in love or happy endings. She felt a lot more superficial, although that is also what she wanted to portray. The aloof, wealthy woman who doesn't involve her heart in anything. It was interesting seeing how they worked together (or didn't work together since they competed so much) and how their story resolved in the end.

This is the second book in the past week that has surprised me in some of its content and focus being from a Christian publisher. I actually checked to see if it was published in more of the general market. I found if I changed my mind set and assumptions about it so that I thought of it as reading an historical romance with some mystery and suspense that was in the general market then it worked for me. There is "romp" in the description, and it is definitely that. There were a lot of references to affairs, seductions, marital relations, lust, stealing, etc. and more bluntly than I expected for the publisher and author. This story would probably not be a good fit for readers who are expecting something more Christian or clean and wholesome but would be a good fit for the general romance market who like their books on the nondescriptive side.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an overall well fleshed story full of a lush setting and characters. It was fun to journey to different parts of Europe as these characters chase an invaluable tiara, with a lovely ending. Recommended to general market historical romance readers.

Content: References to marital relations, affairs, seductions, stealing, and threats of murder.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Bestselling author J’nell Ciesielski has a passion for heart-stopping adventure and sweeping love stories while weaving fresh takes into romances of times gone by. When not creating dashing heroes and daring heroines, she can be found dreaming of Scotland, indulging in chocolate of any kind, or watching old black and white movies. She is a member of the Tall Poppy Writers and lives in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and lazy beagle.

Find the author here.

Have you read other books set in Europe after WWI? Does this sound like a romance you'd enjoy?

A twist on Beauty and the Beast... Beyond Ivy Walls by Rachel Fordham (Review) #BeyondIvyWalls #RachelFordham #newbooks #bookx @ThomasNelson @austenprose

Welcome to my tour stop! Find out more about this new release below...

Beyond Ivy Walls

By Rachel Fordham

Historical Romance

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 336 Pages

August 13, 2024 by Thomas Nelson

Summary

Reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast, a recluse and a young woman discover that the scars of life are no match against an act of love.

Iowa, 1903. All of Monticello believes Otis Taylor has been away fostering his musical genius. But the truth is that his father exiled him long ago, rejecting Otis's appearance and the scars that came with it. Now that he is the last living Taylor, Otis has covertly returned to settle his family's affairs and rid himself of his past for good. However, he soon discovers that he may not have been the only discarded Taylor and begins a tireless search for his missing niece.

At twenty-three years old, Sadie West left her family farm and found employment at the Hoag feather duster factory. It isn't a romantic job, but she's hardly had a glimmer of romance since her beau went off to college, leaving her with no promise of a future together. Desperate to save money and help her family make ends meet, she trespasses and finds shelter in an abandoned building--and is thrown in the path of the town's mysterious bachelor.

Otis's wounds are deep, but as Sadie's friendship with him grows, she begins to fall for the man beneath the mask. The mystery of his long-lost niece, however, is more complex than either could have imagined, and Sadie may be the key to Otis Taylor finally finding his way home.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target | Christianbook

My Review

BEYOND IVY WALLS is a story about a man with severe childhood trauma and the farmgirl who brings light back into his life. It's about assumptions, prejudice, loss and heartache. It's also about second chances, family, acceptance and love. An overall heartwarming twist on Beauty and the Beast!

I liked both these characters from the start. Both were easy to relate to and cheer on. Otis's life has been hard, and he holds that pain inside as well as it being apparent physically. It was horrifying to think of the things he endured, particularly at the hand of his own parent. He very much reminded me of the beast from Beauty and the Beast. Sadie is carrying the burden of trying to help provide for her family after her father was injured. It isn't easy and she is living basically like she is destitute until she meets Otis. She brings so much joy and lightness into the lives around her even though her family's situation is bleak. She works her way slowly into Otis's frigid heart and both don't realize how much their hearts change as time passes and they bare each other's burdens. It's not all easy. They face challenges and have to face their fears to find their own happy ending. I through the author allowed her characters to struggle while also balancing that with sweet and tender moments where they learn and grow. I loved the references to Jane Eyre with the letters these two wrote. I also loved the couple who care for Otis and his home and Sadie's family.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a heartwarming story and one that kept me turning the pages to find out how it would all work out. I could see the nods to Beauty and the Beast, but found this author made this story completely her own.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Rachel Fordham is the author of Where the Road Bends, A Lady in Attendance, A Life Once Dreamed, The Hope of Azure Springs, and Yours Truly, Thomas. Fans expect stories with heart and she delivers, diving deep into the human experience and tugging at reader emotions. She loves connecting with people, traveling to new places, and daydreaming about future projects that will have sigh-worthy endings and memorable characters. She is a busy mom, raising both biological and foster children (a cause she feels passionate about). She lives with her husband and children on an island in the state of Washington.

Find the author here.

Have you read any of this author's other books or other stories loosely based on Beauty and the Beast?

I Can't Wait for... Lady Flyer by Heather B. Moore (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #booktwitter #newbooks #histfic #historicalfiction #WWII #LadyFlyer @ShadowMountn

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I finished Under the Java Moon by this author a couple months ago and it was really good (review is coming). I love learning about untold or less told stories and her next book does just that. It's my pick this week...

Lady Flyer

By Heather B. Moore

Historical Fiction

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 416 Pages

September 3, 2024 by Shadow Mountain

Summary

Based on a true story and set against the backdrop of WWII, a young woman’s love of flying becomes an epic fight for identity and equality.

In the quiet town of Houghton, Michigan, sixteen-year-old Nancy Harkness discovers a passion that ignites her heart in ways she never expected. The arrival of barnstormer pilots brings more than just the thrill of their daring stunts; it brings the promise of adventure. Nancy vows she will be a pilot someday.

Years later, as the dark clouds of World War II gather on the horizon, Nancy’s dreams take a new and daring turn. With unwavering determination, she envisions a squadron of female pilots. Yet, her path is far from clear. The male-dominated world of aviation pushes back, determined to keep women out of the skies.

But Nancy isn’t alone in her quest for equality. Jackie Cochran, a formidable aviatrix and Nancy’s rival, has her own dreams and ambitions for women in aviation. As they both navigate the turbulent skies of a nation at war, their destinies intertwine in a story of rivalry, respect, and competition.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target | DeseretBook

Will you be reading this one?

A new romance to add to your shelf... The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava (Spotlight) #newbooks #bookx #romancebooks #romcom #chicklit @BerkleyPub

The Truth According to Ember

By Danica Nava

Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 384 Pages

August 6, 2024 by Publisher 

Summary

A Chickasaw woman who can’t catch a break serves up a little white lie that snowballs into much more in this witty and irresistible rom-com by debut author Danica Nava.

Ember Lee Cardinal has not always been a liar—well, not for anything that counted at least. But her job search is not going well and when her resumé is rejected for the thirty-seventh time, she takes matters into her own hands. She gets “creative” listing her qualifications and answers the ethnicity question on applications with a lie—a half-lie, technically. No one wanted Native American Ember, but white Ember has just landed her dream accounting job on Park Avenue (Oklahoma City, that is).

Accountant Ember thrives in corporate life—and her love life seems to be looking up too: Danuwoa Colson, the IT guy and fellow Native who caught her eye on her first day, seems to actually be interested in her too. Despite her unease over the no-dating policy at work, they start to see each other secretly, which somehow makes it even hotter? But when they're caught in a compromising position on a work trip, a scheming colleague blackmails Ember, threatening to expose their relationship. As the manipulation continues to grow, so do Ember’s lies. She must make the hard decision to either stay silent or finally tell the truth, which could cost her everything.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Bookshop | B&N | Target

About the Author

Danica Nava is an enrolled citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and works as an Executive Assistant in the tech industry. She has her MBA from USC Marshall School of Business. She currently lives in Southern California with her husband and daughter. The Truth According to Ember is her debut novel. You can find her on Instagram at the handle @danica_nava.

Website | Goodreads | Instagram

Does this sound like a book you'd pick up? What are you reading right now?

A marriage-of-convenience romance... Saved by the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund (Review) #newbooks #bookx #savedbythematchmaker #jodyhedlund #histfic #christfic #romancebooks #historicalromance #bhpfiction #bethanyhousefiction #austenprosepr @JodyHedlund @bethany_house @austenprose

Welcome to my tour stop! Read my review below...

Saved by the Matchmaker

(A Shanahan Match #2)

By Jody Hedlund

Christian Historical Romance

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 352 Pages

August 6, 2024 by Bethany House Publishers

Summary

After her annulment is finalized, Enya Shanahan finds herself caught in a web of scandal and obligation while carrying a secret that threatens to shatter her family's reputation. Determined to find a suitable marriage for Enya, her father turns to a wily matchmaker to save them from their circumstances.

Sullivan O'Brien, a steamboat captain committed to aiding enslaved people on their path to freedom, is faced with an ultimatum from his father. Forced to marry or lose his livelihood, a marriage of convenience seems to be the only solution. As he and Enya face the trials of their pasts and a city consumed by fire, they must confront their deepest fears and learn to trust in love, even when darkness threatens to engulf them.

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My Review

SAVED BY THE MATCHMAKER is a story about a woman who has lost her faith in love and trust in men and a man who doesn't feel worthy of anyone due to the scars he carries. It's about family, the historical expectations and situation of the time, and finding love. Fans of the genre and author will enjoy this one!

I liked these characters from the start. They both have their own stubborn ways, hurts, strengths, and personalities. I liked how well they countered each other and the slowly building friendship and romance. I also really liked how the author weaved through all the different historical aspects of this story. She touches on how marriages were orchestrated among the upper class, traditions, slavery, the railroads and river travel, a bit of war, and takes readers from St. Louis to New Orleans. There was also a bit of a faith element, but nothing over pushing or preachy, as well as some suspense towards the end. It was a fairly balanced story with the main focus being the romance, which is full of chemistry and a strong aspect.

Please note that I felt like the story skirted the edge of being clean. It surprised me how the focus included so much lust and marital relations and that being the main focus of this story. Of course, the purpose was to have the initial attraction grow to a much more concrete love with elements of forgiveness and learning to trust. General historical romance readers may enjoy this more than clean or Christian romance readers, and it's something to be aware of in case this isn't the type of story you're looking for.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a fun read! I liked the characters and the overall story with historical details weaved well throughout. I'm looking forward to reading the next Shanahan love story!

Content: References to marital relations, lust, attraction, etc. but still on the clean side.
Source: I received a complimentary copy through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

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About the Author

Jody Hedlund (JodyHedlund.com) is the bestselling author of more than fifty novels and is the winner of numerous awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle.

Are you a fan of this author or marriages of convenience? Does this sound like a book you'd enjoy?

Check out this new YA fantasy based on Chinese folklore... The Girl with No Reflection by Keshe Chow (Spotlight) #newbooks #bookx #yalit #yabooks #fantasy @tbrbeyondtours

Welcome to my tour stop! Learn more about this new release below...

The Girl with No Reflection

By Keshe Chow

Young Adult Fantasy, Chinese Folklore

Paperback & eBook, 496 Pages

August 6, 2024 by Delacorte Press

Summary

A young woman chosen as the crown prince’s bride must travel to the royal palace to meet her new husband—but her world is shaken when she discovers the dark truth the royal family has been hiding for centuries—in this lush fantasy debut perfect for fans of Song of Silver, Flame Like Night and Violet Made of Thorns.

Princess Ying Yue believed in love…once upon a time.

Yet when she’s chosen to wed the crown prince, Ying’s dreams of a fairy tale marriage quickly fall apart. Her husband-to-be is cold and indifferent, confining Ying to her room for reasons he won’t explain. Worse still are the rumors that swirl around the imperial whispers of seven other royal brides who, after their own weddings, mysteriously disappeared.

Left alone with only her own reflection for company, Ying begins to see things. Strange things. Movements in the corners of her mirror. Colorful lights upon its surface. And when, on the eve of her wedding, she unwittingly tears open a gateway, she is pulled into a mirror world.

This realm is full of sentient reflections, including the enigmatic Mirror Prince. Unlike his real-world counterpart, the Mirror Prince is kind and compassionate, and before long Ying falls in love—the kind of love she always dreamed of.

But there is darkness in this new world, too.

It turns out the two worlds have a long and blood-soaked history, and Ying has a part to play in the future of them both. And the brides who came before Ying? By the time they discovered what their role was, it was already too late.

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About the Author

Keshe was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and migrated to Australia when she was two. She currently lives in Naarm (Melbourne) with her partner, two kids, and two cats.

She has won multiple awards for short fiction, as well as the 2022 Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards Prize for an Unpublished Manuscript.

Her debut novel THE GIRL WITH NO REFLECTION will be out in 2024 with Delacorte Press.

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Tour Schedule

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Does this sound like a book you'd enjoy? Have you read any other books based on Chinese folklore or mythology?

I Can't Wait for... Hometown Vendetta by Traci Hunter Abramson (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #booktwitter #newbooks #hometownvendetta #military #suspense #romancebooks @ShadowMountn

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

I'm so thrilled to have one of my favorite romantic military suspense authors publishing with one of my favorite publishers with a new series and in hardcover!! It's my pick this week...

Hometown Vendetta

(Luke Steel #1)

By Traci Hunter Abramson

Contemporary Romantic Military Suspense

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 320 Pages

October 1, 2024 by Shadow Mountain

Summary

Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn McDowell must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before times runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real.

When a terrorist attack grips the nation, Luke Steele, a military aide to the president of the United States, is reassigned to track down the suspect because the alleged bomber was spotted wearing a state championship ring from Luke’s hometown. Luke has desperately tried to forget his high school years, but he can’t run from them now. Instead, he must face his most formidable assignment yet: leave his post by the president’s side, return to Pine Falls, Virginia, and face every demon from his childhood—including every person and every thought that told him he wasn’t worth anything.

FBI Special Agent Amberlyn McDowell has spent years tracking domestic terrorism. When she catches a break that could pinpoint the key player in the antigovernment group responsible for dozens of needless deaths, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the information she seeks—even if it means going undercover as Luke Steele’s plus-one at his high school reunion. Though Amberlyn found Luke arrogant and aloof during their time together at Quantico, it doesn’t take long for her to discover that there’s much more to him than she realized. But even as the line between fact and fiction in their relationship blurs, the countdown to danger accelerates. Time is running out, and with the threat of another terrorist attack looming, the stakes are higher than ever.

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Will you be reading this one?

Check out a Q&A with the author of this film novelization... The Forge by Chris Fabry (Interview) #newbooks #bookx #film #movie #TheForge #ChristFabry @TyndaleHouse @Crazy4Fiction

The Forge

By Chris Fabry

Christian Contemporary Fiction, Film Novelization

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 368 Pages

August 6, 2024 by Tyndale Fiction

Summary

As Cynthia Wright’s marriage implodes, she is forced to raise her teenage son, Isaiah, alone. The pressure of providing for them through her salon is a full-time job in itself. When Cynthia sees Isaiah pulling away and escaping into video games, tensions rise and she feels her prayers are unanswered. Angry and hurt, Isaiah starts acting like the father who abandoned him, and Cynthia gives him an ultimatum while turning to her twin sister, Elizabeth Jordan, for support. Elizabeth enlists a seasoned prayer warrior who challenges Cynthia to pray boldly and believe God for the impossible.

Caught in the middle, Isaiah longs for respect but sees no clear path to becoming a good man. Desperate for a job, he wanders into Moore Fitness and encounters the owner, Joshua Moore, who introduces him to the concept of working for a coach rather than a boss. Needing the work, Isaiah reluctantly begins his mentoring process with Joshua. While Cynthia clings to hope, no one sees the coming storms brewing at the company and in Isaiah’s heart.

The Forge is about the power of prayer, the transformation only God can achieve, and the lasting influence one person can have on others.

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Author Interview

1. Without giving too much away, can you tell us a little bit about the storyline of The Forge?

The novel is slightly different from the film because it shows more of the story of Isaiah’s mother, Cynthia, as she struggles to love her son well and give him a vision for manhood. We learn a lot of the backstory of these two in the novel and see the effects of an absent father on the heart of a young man. When Isaiah comes into contact with a business owner who sees something in him, the story takes off.

2. What was it about this story that intrigued you when you first heard it was in the works?

I love character studies, the “smaller” stories where you get to know a person well and see their hangups and struggles. So this is not a novel filled with explosions and car chases— although a car is a big part of it—but the explosion and change is internal. I was excited about this novel/film on so many levels.

3. What are some of the major themes of this story?

The biggest theme you’ll encounter is forgiveness. It’s also the hardest theme to portray authentically because forgiveness costs the forgiver. But the person forgiving is perhaps the most blessed. To watch that modeled in the lives of people in The Forge is inspiring. We also deal with what it means to be a man, what it means to be a disciple of Christ, the struggle of being a single parent, and trying to change someone and help them.

4. How is writing a novelization different or similar to your writing process for your other novels?

I like to say that the Kendricks make all the hard choices with plot and characters, so they put up the fence and I get to play in the pasture. I have the basic outline and dialog for the story, but I get to follow my curiosity. So you will see more backstory and material about the major characters in the novel simply because there is more time to explore that than there is in the film.

5. How do you decide which parts of the story you want to expand or build upon?

There are people and scenes that jump off the page and wave at me and say, “Over here! Look over here!” For example, there is a 1966 Ford Mustang gathering dust in a garage. It’s a metaphor in the film that grabbed my heart because I love that car. Always dreamed of owning one and never did. Where did the car come from? Why is it in disrepair? What were the hopes and dreams of the original owner? When I find an object or a person who gains my interest, I have to follow those questions.

6. Who was your favorite character to develop further in this story and why?

I love writing in first person and I knew that Cynthia needed more of her perspective shown. I’m not a single mom, obviously, and writing from a female perspective is a challenge, but I wanted to walk in her shoes as a small business owner with a dream, show the devastation of a difficult marriage and a spouse who abandoned her, and the frustration of wanting something better for her son but not being able to make it happen on her own. I was so satisfied with the way the story played out because Cynthia is not perfect, but she is teachable.

7. How do you hope this story will resonate with readers, particularly young people like the book’s main character?

We did not want to “preach” to younger people. Standard writing advice is show, don’t tell. So we did a lot of “showing” of Isaiah making mistakes and seeing the results of those mistakes and wanting something different. There is one scene between Isaiah and his mother, after he’s made a mistake, that is so filled with guilt and shame and regret, you can taste it. I’m hoping younger readers will experience that and say, “I sure know how that feels.” That will pull them further along into the rest of the story and the heart change that happens.

8. Have you experienced the fruit of godly mentorship in your own life? What was that experience like?

I was blessed to have older men and women pour into me. There was a nurse who taught Sunday school to high schoolers, Jeane DeVos, who was so excited about the power of God’s Word. Later, in college, I attended a Bible study led by her husband. And through the years there were other people who gently guided me with their words and just the way they lived their lives that helped tremendously.

9. What is there in this story that the world needs to hear in our current cultural moment?

The younger generation is hungry for real, authentic relationships. The question is whether the older generation will see the opportunity and seize it.

About the Author

Chris Fabry is an award-winning author and radio personality who hosts the daily program Chris Fabry Live on Moody Radio. Chris’s novels—which include War Room, Dogwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, and Saving Grayson—have won five Christy Awards, a Carol Award, and an ECPA Christian Book Award. Chris and his wife live in Arizona and are the parents of nine children

You can find the author here.

Have you read this or seen the movie? What appeals to you about this story or connected with you in this interview?