Review of Beyond the Tides by Liz Johnson

 

About the Book ~

When Meg Whitaker's father decides to sell the family's lobster fishing business to her high school nemesis, she sets out to prove she should take it over instead. Though she's never had any interest in running the small fleet--or even getting on a boat due to her persistent seasickness--she can't stand to see Oliver Ross in charge. Not when he ruined her dreams for a science scholarship and an Ivy League education ten years ago.

Oliver isn't proud of what he did back then. Angry and broken by his father walking out on his family, he lashed out at Meg--an innocent bystander. But owning a respected fishing fleet on Prince Edward Island is the opportunity of a lifetime, as well as a way to provide for his mother, and he's not about to walk away just because Meg wants him to.

Meg's father has the perfect solution: Oliver and Meg will work the business together, and at the end of the season, he'll decide who gets it. Along the way, they may discover that their stories are more similar than they thought . . . and their dreams aren't what they expected.

For more information about Liz Johnson and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Beyond the Tides by Liz Johnson is a sweet romance set on the gentle shores of Prince Edward Island!

The setting of Beyond the Tides was quite fun! It was enjoyable to be swept onto a lobster boat for a season; it was made even better by not having to experience the constant seasickness, the fishy smells, and the stinging pinch of the lobsters for myself, making it another win for living vicariously through fiction! Additionally, the culture and unwritten rules surrounding lobster fishing in a small town was thoroughly charming and tinged with mystery and sabotage at times. The relationship dynamics -- from romantic to family to friends -- were sweet, raw, and tugged on the heart. There was some focus on losing a parent, but it didn't make the story unbearably heavy. Instead, the focus was shifted to making memories with those people instead of hiding from the grief, which still has me teary-eyed.

Oliver and Meg's romance started off with a bit of Pride and Prejudice disdain to boot! Always great fun in my book! While the spiritual themes were gentler, struggles with forgiveness, pride, and identity added some rocky waves to the couple's relationship. Ultimately, their journey led them to the conclusion that love didn't always look like moonlight dances, a box of chocolates, and a dozen roses, and that love also includes caring, shared grief, and sacrifice. And it made an already sweet story even sweeter!

Four Stars ~ Beyond the Tides by Liz Johnson is romantic and sweet! Beyond the Tides is the first book in the author's Prince Edward Island Shores Series, and it seems to set up the next book in the series. I'm looking forward to reading that next seaside story!

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 girl. 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 Barrister and the Letter of Marque by Todd M. Johnson

 

About the Book ~

As a barrister in 1818 London, William Snopes has witnessed firsthand the danger of only the wealthy having their voices heard, and he's a strong advocate who defends the poorer classes against the powerful. That changes the day a struggling heiress, Lady Madeleine Jameson, arrives at his door.

In a last-ditch effort to save her faltering estate, Lady Jameson invested in a merchant brig, the Padget. The ship was granted a rare privilege by the king's regent: a Letter of Marque authorizing the captain to seize the cargo of French traders operating illegally in the Indian Sea. Yet when the Padget returns to London, her crew is met by soldiers ready to take possession of their goods and arrest the captain for piracy. And the Letter--the sole proof his actions were legal--has mysteriously vanished.

Moved by the lady's distress, intrigued by the Letter, and goaded by an opposing solicitor, Snopes takes the case. But as he delves deeper into the mystery, he learns that the forces arrayed against Lady Jameson, and now himself, are even more perilous than he'd imagined.

For more information about Todd M. Johnson and his books, check out his website here!

My Thoughts ~ 

The Barrister and the Letter of Marque by Todd M. Johnson will sweep you into the past for a thrilling legal mystery! 

The Barrister and the Letter of Marque was such a unique story! It's like Sherlock Holmes meets Downton Abbey meets Law and Order meets Regency England. William Snopes, after rejecting his father's title, worked as a barrister for the people among the lower classes, the downtrodden, and the "downstairs" workers, which gave a broader view of the era than usually found in fiction. The hint of romance culminating in the lovely promise of someday reduced my heart to quite the gooey state. Additionally, the legal mystery was unique and complicated, driving the story forward; however, the pacing felt a little slow at times. The plethora of characters were intriguing, but I would have loved to have gotten to know them a little more. 

The Barrister and the Letter of Marque held other interesting, thoughtful layers. Truth, honor, and the shady lines we are willing to cross in the name of justice are woven throughout this mystery. As the characters reconcile these themes with their faith, one can't help but view their personal circumstances through this fictional lens, one that elicits conviction and insight in such a subtle manner.

Three Stars ~ The Barrister and the Letter of Marque by Todd M. Johnson takes legal fiction to a new level! The Barrister and the Letter of Marque is a standalone, but the ending gives hope for more.

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 girl. 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 Love and the Silver Lining by Tammy L. Gray

 

About the Book ~

This disaster may be just what she needed.

Darcy Malone's dreams of mission work are dashed on the eve of fulfilling them: The Guatemalan school she was going to teach at has closed, and she's already quit her job and given up her apartment. Stuck in her worst-case scenario, Darcy accepts an unexpected offer to move in with Bryson Katsaros's little sister, despite the years of distrust between her and Bryson, the lead singer in her best friend Cameron's band. But as she meets those close to Bryson, Darcy quickly discovers there is more to him than just his bad-boy persona.

Needing to find a purpose for all her sudden free time, Darcy jumps at the chance to care for and train a group of unruly dogs, with the aim of finding each a home before their bereaved owner returns them to animal control. But it's Darcy herself who will encounter a surprising rescue in the form of love, forgiveness, and learning to let go.

For more information about Tammy L. Gray and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If there's one thing I know about romances, the moody musician is always deeper and sweeter than he appears. It's a trope for a reason -- it's often true, and we love that! Add a bunch of loveable dogs and a girl who's questioning everything in her relationship with God -- what's not to love about Love and the Silver Lining by Tammy L. Gray?

Love and the Silver Lining was a fun, romantic, and deep story! The setting and furry, four-legged friends were an excellent heartwarming factor. I also love and applaud how the author plunged to unexpected depths in both the character development and the plot (especially surrounding Darcy's broken family). Additionally, the unrequited love story and some fiery arguments have me desperately waiting for information about the next book because I got to know what happens next!

I adored Darcy and Bryson's story in Love and the Silver Lining! It was real and relatable. Okay, so maybe you're not a dog training guru falling in love with a local rocker who's sitting on the edge of fame, but who hasn't gone through a period where they're struggling and questioning their relationship with God? Let's be real here...all of us have done that, which makes Darcy one of those real, genuine characters you want to share a pint of ice cream with as you commiserate over current circumstances on your way to a deeper, stronger faith. Darcy and Bryson's story gave a sometimes funny and at other times heartbreaking glimpse at what it's like to be stuck in life, relationships, and purpose -- and the joys that await when you let go of the past and embrace God's beautiful future!

Five Stars ~ Love and the Silver Lining by Tammy L. Gray is an absolutely golden book! Love and the Silver Lining is the second book in the author's A State of Grace Series. While the main characters were introduced in the first book, Love and the Silver Lining can be read as a standalone. I'm looking forward to the next book in 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 girl. 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 Between the Wild Branches by Connilyn Cossette

About the Book ~ 

Finding a Way to Freedom Might Cost Them Everything.

Lukio has spent the past decade as a famous Philistine fighter, achieving every material goal with the help of his ruthless cousin. He's also spent the time burying painful memories of betrayal that he associates with the Levite family that guards the Ark of the Covenant and once adopted him. Now, just as the champion of Ashdod is set to claim the biggest prize of all--the daughter of the king--his past collides with his present.

After a heartbreaking end to her friendship with Lukio, Shoshana thought she'd never again see the boy with the dual-colored eyes and the troubled soul. But when she is captured in a Philistine raid and enslaved in Ashdod, she is surprised to recognize the brutal fighter known as Demon Eyes.

When their renewed connection threatens to expose Shoshana's dangerous secrets, Lukio must decide how far he'll go to face his past and keep her protected.

For more information about Connilyn Cossette and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Question: what should live between the shelves of a bookcase dedicated to tomes that will be cherished until the end of time? Answer: Between the Wild Branches by Connilyn Cossette!

Between the Wild Branches was everything I hoped to discover AND MORE! Lukio and Shoshana's harrowing, romantic, and breathtaking tale is one that could live through generations as a legend rather than a work of fiction! Yes, it was and is THAT good. The Philistine setting for the majority of the story was evocative, adding to the high stakes, as well as a really refreshing and intriguing change to the traditional settings found in Biblical fiction. I was utterly impressed at how well developed the characters were, from main characters to side characters and children. The intricacies of the plot and how divinely those plot points connected left me feeling like I was reading a faith account from the Bible. Additionally -- and definitely one of my favorite aspects of this story! -- the slow yet intense burn to this second-chance romance made Lukio and Shoshana's happy ending that much more satisfying!

I cried a lot while reading Between the Wild Branches...there were so many tears! Woven throughout this incredible story was a prominent and beautiful message about God's love for His children. Regardless of a rebellious past or a steadfast walk, Between the Wild Branches will grasp hearts with the its root truth that we are a child of God because we've been adopted into God's family. His Abba Father heart for family and adoption -- literally and spiritually -- will challenge, change, and convict readers.

Five Stars ~ Between the Wild Branches by Connilyn Cossette is a thrilling, breathtaking, romantic, and deeply moving adventure set in Biblical times! Between the Wild Branches is the second and final book of the Covenant House Series. While it could be read as a standalone, some plot points and the rich character development would be better appreciated if the first book is read prior to reading Between the Wild Branches.

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 girl. 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 Heart's Charge by Karen Witemeyer

 

About the Book ~

For Years They've Been Nomads for Justice, but a Final Mission May Just Lead Their Hearts Home.

Members of the legendary Hanger's Horsemen, Mark Wallace and Jonah Brooks arrive in Llano County, Texas, to deliver a steed, never expecting they'd help deliver a baby as well. Left with an infant to care for, they head to a nearby foundling home, where Mark encounters the woman he nearly married a decade ago.

After failing at love, Katherine Palmer has dedicated her life to caring for children, teaming up with Eliza Southerland to start Harmony House. Eliza understands the pain of not fitting society's mold, being illegitimate and of mixed ancestry. Yet those are the very attributes that lead her to minister to outcast children. The taciturn Jonah intrigues her by defying all her stereotypes of men, but there are secrets behind his eyes--ghosts from wars past and others still being waged.

When the Horsemen hear rumors of missing children, they stay to investigate, sticking close to Harmony House and its beautiful owners. As they work together to uncover the truth, love and danger grow hand in hand until a final sinister scheme threatens to destroy them all.

For more information about Karen Witemeyer and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If you're looking for a fast-paced, quick western with twice as much romance, then The Heart's Charge by Karen Witemeyer should be added to the wobbly TBR pile on your nightstand!

The Heart's Charge pulled me into its western world and gave me all the John Wayne vibes! I enjoyed how the story centered around the home for outcast children; it really tugged on my heartstrings! Additionally, Mark and Katherine get a second chance at love as sparks fly between Jonah and Eliza, so their romances were sweet and fun. While the villain didn't surprise me, I thought the author laid out those plot twists well. However, as much as I enjoyed Jonah and Mark's friendship and seeing their interactions while they wooed their respective ladies, their stories felt condensed within the single book. That said, I did enjoy the way their stories built upon each other.

The Heart's Charge is sprinkled with lots of spiritual truths as Jonah, Mark, Katherine, and Eliza healed from their respective wounds. However, the most striking and overarching message proved to be that you can't define a person by their worst mistake. The different ways the heroes and heroines grappled and surrendered to this truth painted a beautiful picture of the way God defines us -- covered in His love, grace, and mercy!

Three Stars ~  The Heart's Charge by Karen Witemeyer is a fun, romantic western! The Heart's Charge is the second book in the author's Hanger's Horsemen Series, but the story can be read without reading the previous book.

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 girl. 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 Come Back to Me by Jody Hedlund

 

About the Book ~

The ultimate cure that could heal any disease? Crazy.

That's exactly what research scientist Marian Creighton has always believed about her father's quest, even if it does stem from a desire to save her sister from the genetic disease that stole their mother from them. But when her father falls into a coma after drinking a vial of holy water believed to contain traces of residue from the Tree of Life, Marian must question all of her assumptions. He's left behind tantalizing clues that suggest he's crossed back in time. Insane. Until Marian tests his theories and finds herself in the Middle Ages during a dangerous peasant uprising.

William Durham, a valiant knight, comes to Marian's rescue and offers her protection . . . as his wife. The longer Marian stays in the past, the more she cares about William. Can she ever find her father and make it back to the present to heal her sister? And when the time comes to leave, will she want to?

Bestselling author Jody Hedlund is your guide down the twisting waters of time to a volatile era of superstition, revolts, and chivalry in this suspenseful story.

For more information about Jody Hedlund and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Come Back to Me by Jody Hedlund is SO enthralling, riveting, and consuming that I am utterly distraught that I don't have the next book in the series RIGHT NOW! Excuse me while I weep bitterly for a moment...

Come Back to Me is a marvelous blend of time-traveling fantasy and romance! The author crafted a stunningly unique story with whispers of National Treasure meets the Bible meets a Christian version of Outlander. And while I've never been a fan of Outlander (we've all got our quirks, so please don't throw imaginary tomatoes at me!), I am going to be obsessed with the Waters of Time Series thanks to the awesome sauce that is Come Back to Me! Without giving away spoilers, I was very impressed and riveted by the author's ability to weave a Biblically-inspired, time-traveling tale with a high-stake modern suspense and a sweeping Medieval romance.

While some of Will and Marian's romance was tinged a touch of insta-love, I thought it worked for their story. Additionally, I appreciated how the author steered away from the physical side of their marriage and onto establishing love on a mind, body, and soul level. Will and Marian each bore scars and thus choose to bury their hearts into the routines of their respective lives before they met. Their love story is a beautifully imaginative look at how Godly love not only knows no bounds but also has the power to heal a broken heart. I also loved how the author was able to include a stirring message about living in the present -- achieved by a little trip to the past!  

Five Stars ~ Come Back to Me by Jody Hedlund is a romantic tale that will hold readers in rapt awe! Come Back to Me is the first book in the author's new Waters of Time Series, and I would highly recommend reading the books in order.

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 girl. 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 A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham

 

About the Book ~

Five years in a New York state reformatory have left a blemish on Hazel's real name. So when she takes a job as Doctor Gilbert Watts's lady in attendance in 1898, she does so under an alias. In the presence of her quiet and pious employer, Hazel finds more than an income. She finds a friend and a hope that if she can set her tarnished past in order, she might have a future after all.

As Gilbert becomes accustomed to the pleasant chatter of his new dental assistant, he can't help but sense something secretive about her. Perhaps there is more to this woman than meets the eye. Can the questions that loom between them ever be answered? Or will the deeds of days gone by forever rob the future of its possibilities?

Rachel Fordham pens a tender tale of a soft-spoken man and a hardened woman, as well the friends who stand by them, as they work toward a common purpose--to expunge the record of someone society deemed beyond saving--and perhaps find love along the way.

For more information about Rachel Fordham and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If you're looking for a story that will warm your heart with a sweet romance and deep truths, then A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham will give you all the cozy vibes!

The setting of A Lady in Attendance immediately charmed me, largely because I related to Gilbert and Hazel on a vocational level as I was a dental assistant for a time. Seeing a field in which I worked portrayed in a historical era was great fun, being both whimsical and nostalgic! Additionally, the author really kept my attention not only with the unfolding romance but also with mystery, murder, suspense, and a surprising plot twist. While I don't love the particular trope found there, I thought the author showed skill in both the initial shock and resolution surrounding that plot twist.

Gilbert was a sweet, steadfast hero who found himself becoming bolder and braver throughout the story, subtly showing how your God-given spouse can and should influence you for the better. Hazel's past sins, mistakes, and the injustices inflicted on her opened her eyes to forgiveness -- for everyone but herself! She truly struggled with forgiving herself, so her journey to accepting that the past didn't define her AND seeing the good that God wrought from her past brought tears to my eyes a time or two!

Four Stars ~ A Lady in Attendance by Rachel Fordham is a lovely romance with profound truths that will leave a warm feeling in your heart! A Lady in Attendance is a standalone, but the author has other novels 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 girl. 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!