Review of The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky

About the Book ~

Two women -- a century apart -- embark on a journey to healing, faith, forgiveness, and romance.

In 2012, art historian Gwen Morris travels to England's Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her prestigious grandfather. While at Longdale Manor, she meets David Bradford--the owner's handsome grandson--who is desperate to save the crumbling estate by turning it into a luxury hotel. When Gwen stumbles upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an intricately carved shepherd's staff similar to one in a photo of her parents, she's left searching for answers.

In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.

For more information about Carrie Turansky and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~ 

The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky sweeps readers to the enchanting Lake District in this historical tale of love and faith!

My favorite aspect of The Legacy of Longdale Manor was the magical setting! I enjoyed learning about the rich history of England's Lake District and the deep faith of the region that has abided for more than a century! Additionally, the various joys and hardships of raising sheep grabbed my attention. Also, I discovered one of the best recipes I have ever found in a novel! How did I survive without Coronation chicken salad in my life? This juicy recipe is just one of the many different ways the author incorporated research and culture into the pages of The Legacy of Longdale Manor.

The Legacy of Longdale Manor has a fair number of heart-wrenching moments too. I appreciated how the author called out that forgiveness was not excusing sin and highlighted how our relationship with God can't be built on someone else through Gwen and Charlotte's intertwined journeys. However, there were missteps and triggers for those who have been abused and betrayed by their partner, parent, and/or the church.

Three Stars ~ The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky is the author's first dual timeline novel, but the author has other books in her backlist for readers to enjoy.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girls. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of Letters from My Sister by Valerie Fraser Luesse

About the Book ~

Two sisters. One mystery. A family changed forever.

At the turn of the twentieth century, sisters Emmy and Callie Bullock are living a privileged life when their well-ordered Alabama household gets turned upside down by the arrival of Lily McGee. Arrestingly beautiful, Lily quickly--and innocently--draws the wrong kind of attention.

After Lily has a baby, Callie witnesses something she was never meant to see--or did she? Her memory is a haze, just an image in her mind of Emmy standing on a darkened riverbank and cradling Lily's baby girl. Only when the sisters are separated does the truth slowly come to light--including a revelation that will shape the rest of Callie's life.

For more information about Valerie Fraser Luesse and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~ 

Bring your own sweet tea for this one because Letters from My Sister by Valerie Fraser Luesse is southern fiction at its finest!

I liked Callie from the moment I read her opening words in Letters from My Sister! Her humor and whimsy captured my bookish friendship. Plus, Callie and Solomon's romance deserves all the heart eyes! The setting and the author's ability to capture the era blossomed in my imagination, and the pacing was laced with intrigue, mystery, confusion, and swoons in all the right places.

Letters from My Sister delves into triggering subjects such as death, grief, racism, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and stalking from a sexual predator. Despite these challenging facets, I found that I could NOT stop reading this engrossing story! Furthermore, I loved the author's gentle exploration of privilege, showing how one can erase personhood and consent even with the best of intentions, and the bumpy road where trauma and trust collide. The cloudy effects of trauma as it waged war with what Callie knew to be truth will transcend the particulars of this heart-wrenching family saga and touch many hearts with an aching relatability. Through it all, the author continued to highlight that God works in mysterious and awesome ways that cannot be defined by human boxes of understanding. Very well done!

Four Stars ~ Letters from My Sister by Valerie Fraser Luesse was a captivating family drama! Letters from My Sister is a standalone novel, but the author has other books in her backlist for readers to enjoy!

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girls. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of Rocky Mountain Rendezvous by Misty M. Beller

About the Book ~

In 1837, Juniper Collins and her sisters are shocked by their father's deathbed request for them to return a special set of beads to a Piegan Blackfoot woman he credits with saving his life during his travels West. Together, the sisters set out for the trapper rendezvous to find the woman, but their mission turns more daunting when they come upon the mass of men and lodges spread out in the Green River Valley.

Riley Turner came West to find peace and quiet and live off the land, but when four unprotected women arrive at the rendezvous, he feels compelled to help them and is more fascinated by Juniper than any other woman he's known.

As their search brings only empty leads and dead ends, the sisters must decide whether to return East or stay in the mountains to continue looking--and that's if the mystery woman is even still alive. Is the risk to honor their father's last request worth the danger they find at every turn? 

For more information about Misty M. Beller and her books, check out her website here! 

My Thoughts ~

Looking to rendezvous with a historical romance that touches on obscure history? Then check out Rocky Mountain Rendezvous by Misty M. Beller!

Rocky Mountain Rendezvous whisked me to an unfamiliar part of history! I enjoyed getting a glimpse into the life of a trapper in 1837 as well as the culture of the Piegan Blackfoot tribe. While I didn't fall in love with the characters and the gendered subtext dampened my overall enjoyment, I did find myself curious to know what would and will continue to happen next in the quest to find Steps Right. Ultimately, I wasn't surprised by the plot twists, but I did find the ending twists quite satisfying.

Rocky Mountain Rendezvous' spiritual journey, though not as physically arduous, certainly had its own rocky moments that the characters needed to navigate! Family honor played a huge part in shaping the characters -- for their good and even their detriment. It was endearing to watch the different ways steadfast love broke down the lies and healed deep wounds, a lovely reflection of God's love!

Three Stars ~ Rocky Mountain Rendezvous by Misty M. Beller is a sweet story! Rocky Mountain Rendezvous is the first book in the author's new series, Sisters of the Rockies. The author also has other books in her backlist for readers to enjoy.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girls. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer

 

About the Book ~

Maggie inherited a gift from her time-crossing parents that allows her to live three separate lives in 1861, 1941, and 2001. Each night, she goes to sleep in one time period and wakes up in another. Until she turns twenty-one, when she will have to forfeit two of those lives--and everyone she knows in them--forever.

In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of a senator at the outbreak of the Civil War, navigating a capital full of Southern spies and wounded soldiers. In 1941, she is a navy nurse, grappling with her knowledge of the future when she joins a hospital ship going to Pearl Harbor. And in 2001, she's a brilliant young medical student, fulfilling her dream of becoming a surgeon.

While Maggie has sworn off romance until she makes her final choice, an intriguing man tugs at her heart in each era, only complicating the impossible decision she must make, which looms ever closer. With so much on the line, how can Maggie choose just one life to keep and the rest to lose?

For more information about Gabrielle Meyer and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

The book hangover that awaits you upon completing In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer is worth every moment spent in this timeless tale! 

I have been waiting for In This Moment since I read the ending of When the Day Comes -- over and over, might I add! I could not be more enraptured with the next installment of the Timeless series! While Maggie's story is all the richer for reading the previous book, her story truly stood on its own. The author did a great job of refreshing the rules of time-crossing while also throwing in new twists and surprises. Maggie's three time periods gripped me from their opening chapters. I had such a hard time putting the book down. I loved each of Maggie's trips to the White House, and it was such a fun way to highlight the differences in each era. Maggie's 2001 path impacted me in such a personal way because of my memories from what is now a moment in history. In this path, I was the one with knowledge of the future that I ached to share with Maggie. This genius move put me as the reader in the shoes of the time-crosser and allowed me to relate to Maggie in such a special way. In the end, I could not be happier with the path -- or the fella -- that Maggie chose! 

I loved the spiritual journey in In This Moment! Despite Maggie having to choose one of three lives, there was such a kinship in the struggle of determining what choice to make and what was God's will for her life. Seriously, what's more relatable than that? In such a beautiful and unique way, the author answers this by showing how God cares about the desires of our heart.

Five Stars ~ In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer is absolutely captivating! In This Moment is the second book in the author's Timeless Series. I might have an emotional breakdown while waiting for the third book because THAT TWIST WILL HAUNT ME! I can't wait to see if any of my guesses are right! 

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girls. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green

 

About the Book ~

For years her explorer father promised Dr. Lauren Westlake she'd accompany him on one of his Egyptian expeditions. But as the empty promises mounted, Lauren determined to earn her own way. Now the assistant curator of Egyptology for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Lauren receives two unexpected invitations.

The first is her repentant father's offer to finally bring her to Egypt as his colleague on a new expedition. The second is a chance to enter the world of New York's wealthiest patrons who have been victims of art fraud.

With Egyptomania sweeping the city after the discovery of King Tut's tomb, Detective Joe Caravello is on the hunt for a notorious forger preying on the open wallets of New York's high society. Dr. Westlake is just the expert he needs to help him track the criminal. Together they search for the truth, and the closer Lauren and Joe get to discovering the forger's identity, the more entangled they become in a web of deception and crime.

For more information about Jocelyn Green and her books, check out her website here! 

My Thoughts ~

The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green is the cat's pajamas and other fun slang from the Roaring Twenties!

The Roaring Twenties is the cream in my coffee, so The Metropolitan Affair caught my attention right away! I enjoyed how the author portrayed some of the glitz and glam of the era through different avenues such as Lauren's work though the museum, while also showing the seedy underbelly via Joe's work as a detective. I also loved how the author addressed some of the sexism and misogyny against women in the workplace. I thoroughly enjoyed learning different facets of Egyptian culture in a historical setting -- so fun!

The spiritual journey in The Metropolitan Affair made me cry! Though Joe had some profound moments of choosing to trust, Lauren's spiritual journey took center stage! Lauren's abusive father horrifically colored her view of her worth and God. However, it was the way the author showed the complete, sacrificial love of God wholly though Lauren's mother that undid me. I loved how the author depicted this profound truth that is often missing from the broader conversation.

Four Stars ~ The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green is the bee's knees! The Metropolitan Affair is the first book in the author's new series, On Central Park. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series! 

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girls. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel

About the Book ~

Brianna Kelly has worked at Ballymacool House and Boarding School since she was a wee girl and will likely die there. Despite a sense that she was made for something more, Brianna feels powerless to change her situation, so she consoles herself by exploring the Ballymacool grounds, looking for hidden treasures to add to the secret trove beneath the floorboards of her room.

When Michael Wray, the son of local gentry, is sent to Ballymacool to deal with his unruly cousin, he finds himself drawn to Brianna, immediately and inescapably. There is something about her that feels so . . . familiar.

When Brianna unearths an intriguing silver platter in the woods, she commits to learning its origins. Could the handsome newcomer hold the key? If so, their discovery could change everything.

For more information about Jennifer Deibel and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Escape to Ireland! If you're looking for a captivating story that could be an Irish fairytale, then check out The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel!

The Maid of Ballymacool was so sweet and enchanting! Seriously, I just cannot emphasize the sweetness enough. This Irish Cinderella was like A Little Princess meets Downton Abbey. Additionally, the setting came alive with the vibrant energy that is all things Ireland, and I thoroughly enjoyed the blend of history and fiction. Michael's sense of justice and defense of those abused was one of my favorite parts of the story! However, there were some secondary characters whose motivations felt unclear, so their attitudes and actions felt jarring at times. 

Brianna's character explored rebuilding trust in people and God after abuse and betrayal. While there's no way in a fictional story to truly portray all the nuances and trauma triggers surrounding rebuilding trust, I thought the author did a good job for the scope of the story itself. Ultimately, Brianna and the reader are pointed back to God's faithful nature to bring life from death. 

Three Stars ~ The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel is a charming story with a beautiful message! The Maid of Ballymacool is a standalone, but the author has other books in her backlist for readers to enjoy. 

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girls. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of The Weight of Air by Kimberly Duffy

About the Book ~

Two women--bound by blood, torn apart by circumstance--find together that true strength comes in many forms.

In 1911, Mabel MacGinnis is Europe's strongest woman and has performed beside her father in the Manzo Brothers Circus her entire life. When he dies unexpectedly, she loses everything she's ever known and sets off in the company of acrobat Jake Cunningham in hope of finding the mother she thought was dead.

Isabella Moreau, America's most feted aerialist, has given everything to the circus. But age and injury now threaten her security, and Isabella, stalked by old fears, makes a choice that risks everything. Then her daughter Mabel appears alongside the man who never wanted to see Isabella again, and she is forced to face the truth of where, and in what, she derives her worth.

As Mabel and Isabella's lives become entangled beneath the glittering lights and flying trapeze of Madison Square Garden, their resiliency and resolve are tested as they learn the truth of what it means to be strong.

For more information about Kimberly Duffy and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~ 

Who loves an exceptionally written circus story? If so, then check out The Weight of Air by Kimberly Duffy! It's the perfect tale for running away to the circus!

From beginning to end, The Weight of Air resembled a circus -- in the best of ways! Enthralling, beautiful, terrifying, and breathtaking moments are laced throughout each act of the story. The circus world came alive for me! Though these were fictitious circuses, the author's note at the end explained which parts were inspired by the famous circuses of the day. One of my favorite parts was the way Mabel and Isabella's careers in the circus highlighted the objectification and double standards forced on women. Though very different, their experiences proved to be a very thought-provoking way to explore how women are expected or even forced to use their bodies, supposed feminine perfection as determined by others, and how women are often required to ignore or minimize their mental health. Very well done!  

The Weight of Air deals with some very heavy things that may be triggering to some readers, such as depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, death, grief, and suicide. However, I never felt like the story was weighed down by these topics. Instead, these common and relatable struggles were brought into the open and illuminated with shame-free light. I greatly appreciated how the author handled these complex subjects and infused love, love, and more love into the conversation. It was a beautiful journey with characters who were neither villain nor hero, but broken people faced with the reviving love of God.

Five Stars ~ The Weight of Air by Kimberly Duffy is a truly gripping and whimsical tale that will stay with its readers! The Weight of Air is a standalone, but the author has other books in her backlist for readers to enjoy.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girls. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!