Review of The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel

About the Book ~

In 1920, Annabeth De Lacy's father is appointed landlord of Galway Parish in Ireland. Bored without the trappings and finery of the British Court, Annabeth convinces her father to arrange an apprenticeship for her with the Jennings family--descendants of the creator of the famed Claddagh ring.

Stephen Jennings longs to do anything other than make a career in his family's jewelry shop. The past has taught him to no longer believe in love and the "lies" the Claddagh ring supposedly promises. How can he peddle what he now finds offensive?

The war for Irish independence gains strength, and the De Lacy family is caught in the crossfire. As events take a life-threatening turn, Annabeth and Stephen will discover that the bonds of friendship, love, and loyalty can only be made stronger when put through the refiner's fire.

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

My Thoughts ~

The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel reminds me of Leap Year with its snarky, bitter hero clashing with the highborn heroine meets Downton Abbey with Lady Sybil and Tom Branson's romance. Sprinkle in the history, culture, and the war for Irish independence, and you've got a vibrant romance waiting in The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel!

The Lady of Galway Manor was thoroughly engrossing! The author painted a lush and vivid description of Ireland. Despite the fact that this story is set in the 1920s -- another thing I loved! -- I felt like I could envision every detail in my mind's eye. Additionally, the culture and history were fascinating and immersive. I also really enjoyed how some of the secondary characters were challenged and grew throughout the story in addition to Anna and Stephen. 

I loved Anna and Stephen! I loved the way they reminded me of some of my favorite romances while still being their own characters. But most importantly, I loved the deep themes of love that the author explored in their romance. Not only did the author beautifully illustrate sacrificial, Christ-like love through the Claddagh ring while navigating the trenches of disbelief in love, but the author also challenged prejudices and hate that can burrow into the heart when one has declared everyone on the other side to be the enemy. Wonderfully done!

Five Stars ~ The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel was a vibrant, romantic, and cultured read! The Lady of Galway Manor is a standalone, and I look forward to reading other books by the author!

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 To Disguise the Truth by Jen Turano

 

About the Book ~

When a man arrives at the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, anxious to hire them to find a missing heiress, Eunice Holbrooke realizes her past has finally caught up with her . . . and that she may no longer be able to hide under the disguise that has kept her safe for so long.

Arthur Livingston's goal in life is to make his mark on the world as a mining industrialist, but after the man who could help him achieve his goal is murdered, Arthur feels compelled to seek justice for the family--but he's left with more questions than answers after the eccentric Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency refuses to take on his case.

Desperate to conceal her real identity and avoid the irritatingly handsome Arthur, Eunice takes on a different case that requires her to go deep undercover and entangles her in one troublesome situation after another. When other secrets come to light, Eunice has no choice but to confront her past, hopeful that it will set her free but knowing it could very well place her life--and the lives of those she loves--in jeopardy.

For more information about Jen Turano and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

To Disguise the Truth by Jen Turano has loads of rollicking fun tucked between its pages!

To Disguise the Truth was absolutely delightful, witty, and romantic! Additionally, I loved the family drama that unfolded like an extended murder mystery party throughout the second half of the story. The characters were layered, and I appreciate how Eunice and her friends break the forced image of what it means to be a woman. I adored the banter -- the dialogue was probably my favorite part! The setting and pacing were different and surprising, and it kept the story moving at a good pace. I also really appreciated how one of those twists led to an asylum, showing some of the horrors of the day. This twist gave representation to a vulnerable portion of our population who continue to need love and support.

Eunice and Arthur had quite the compelling spiritual journey as well! Arthur had to let go of his plans, his pride, and even his well-hidden desire for revenge to discover what he really wanted in life. Meanwhile, Eunice had been battling fear for a long time. When she began to walk in the truth, the heart of freedom God has for us is beautifully on display!

Four Stars ~ To Disguise the Truth by Jen Turano is a delightful, witty romance with an engaging family drama! To Disguise the Truth is the third book in The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency Series, but it can be read out of order or as a standalone. 

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 Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen

 

About the Book ~

Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this atmospheric Regency tale brimming with mystery, intrigue, and romance.

When Miss Rebecca Lane returns to her home village after a few years away, her brother begs for a favor: go to nearby Swanford Abbey and deliver his manuscript to an author staying there who could help him get published. Feeling responsible for her brother's desperate state, she reluctantly agrees.

The medieval monastery turned grand hotel is rumored to be haunted. Once there, Rebecca begins noticing strange things, including a figure in a hooded black gown gliding silently through the abbey's cloisters. For all its renovations and veneer of luxury, the ancient foundations seem to echo with whispers of the past--including her own. For there she encounters Sir Frederick--magistrate, widower, and former neighbor--who long ago broke her heart.

When the famous author is found murdered in the abbey, Sir Frederick begins questioning staff and guests and quickly discovers that several people held grudges against the man, including Miss Lane and her brother. Haunted by a painful betrayal in his past, Sir Frederick searches for answers but is torn between his growing feelings for Rebecca and his pursuit of the truth. For Miss Lane is clearly hiding something...

For more information about Julie Klassen and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen is like a game of Clue set in Regency England with lots of fun literary references to boot! 

Set against the backdrop of an old abbey renovated into a ritzy hotel that is rumored to be haunted, Shadows of Swanford Abbey opens with lots of hints that allude to the mystery to come! While this immediately pulled me into the story, the pacing does slow down as the author sets up the possible suspects for the first half of the novel. However, I did enjoy the sheer number of suspects and possible motives, and it was a good nod to Agatha Christie's mysteries. In fact, I loved all the inspiration that the author pulled from beloved classics, especially the ones from Jane Austen's stories! Additionally, as someone who has had personal and professional ties to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, I loved a certain doctor and the representation he brought to the story.

Frederick had some guilt and unforgiveness towards his deceased wife while Rebecca navigated tremendous family guilt and pressure to provide. It was interesting to see the different ways that these struggles and their shared faith impacted their reactions to and navigation surrounding the puzzling murder. While Frederick and Rebecca didn't end up being soulmate characters for me, Shadows of Swanford Abbey was still a fun whodunit with a happy ending!

Three Stars ~ Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen was an intriguing mystery set in Regency England! Shadows of Swanford Abbey 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 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 Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz

 

About the Book ~

A Virginia chocolatier and a privateering sea captain collide once more after a failed love affair a decade before. Will a war and a cache of regrets keep them apart? Or will a new shared vision reunite them?

It is 1755, and the threat of war with France looms over colonial York, Virginia. Chocolatier Esmée Shaw is fighting her own battle of the heart. Having reached her twenty-eighth birthday, she is reconciled to life alone after a decade-old failed love affair from which she's never quite recovered. But she longs to find something worthwhile to do with her life.

Captain Henri Lennox has returned to port after a lengthy absence, intent on completing the lighthouse in the dangerous Chesapeake Bay, a dream he once shared with Esmée. But when the colonial government asks him to lead a secret naval expedition against the French, his future is plunged into uncertainty.

Will a war and a cache of regrets keep them apart, or can their shared vision and dedication to the colonial cause heal the wounds of the past? Bestselling and award-winning author Laura Frantz whisks you away to a time fraught with peril--on the sea and in the heart--in this redemptive, romantic story.

For more information about Laura Frantz and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz is a lovely voyage through the Tidewater of colonial Virginia! 

The vivacious setting of A Heart Adrift was truly a star in and of itself in this historical tale! From the immersive descriptions to charming locations such as a chocolate shop, a lighthouse, and even the deck of a mighty sea vessel, the beauty and vividness of the era shines. However, the pacing moved a little slower. While Esmee and Henri didn't end up being soulmate characters for my bookish heart, I loved how the author crafted Esmee's character, specifically that she didn't conform to gender norms and restrictions of the time. 

Esmee and Henri's long and tumultuous relationship certainly faced some ups and down before they were both ready for marriage. Ultimately, they needed to put each other first before they were able to embark on matrimony. Additionally, their respective relationships with God as well as those around them were put to the test as they and their immediate community navigated various trials. It's an apt portrayal of the painful struggle and the misguided reasonings used to make sense of God and the world when your reality has shattered around you, but one that encourages readers to draw closer to God.

Three Stars ~ A Heart Adrift by Laura Frantz is a lovely and romantic voyage through history! A Heart Adrift 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 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 Never Leave Me by Jody Hedlund

 

About the Book ~

Facing death takes courage. Facing life takes even more.

In the last stages of a genetic disease, Ellen Creighton has decided to live out her remaining days at the estate of her longtime friend Harrison Burlington. Though he's never allowed himself to get serious in a relationship due to his paralysis, Harrison cares deeply for Ellen and is desperately trying to save her life by finding the holy water that is believed to heal any disease--the same substance Ellen suspects is responsible for the deaths of her father and sister.

But Harrison is not the only one seeking the holy water. Dangerous criminals are mere steps behind, and Ellen soon learns they will go to any lengths to get the powerful drug--including sending her back into the past to locate it for them.

Bestselling and award-winning author Jody Hedlund plunges you into the swiftly flowing river of history in this second breathtaking Waters of Time story.

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

My Thoughts ~

Never Leave Me by Jody Hedlund is everything I could have hoped for in the next installment of the Waters of Time story! Never Leave Me is truly the clean time-traveling romance I've been waiting for, and I NEED MORE! PLEASE DON'T END THE SERIES YET!!!!

Never Leave Me was so, so good! The author gave just enough backstory that cleared up the fuzzy details I'd forgotten without recapping the entire first book, thus sparing me great annoyance! The pacing moved along a satisfying rate as Harrison and Ellen navigated a slew of unique problems, past and present. Additionally, the past and present settings were equally vibrant and captivating, filled with reunions, daring escapades, and romantic destinations. 

Truly, Never Leave Me was a breathtaking story of letting go of fear and embracing life and love! Harrison and Ellen were both afraid of living life. For Ellen, her illness made her not only afraid to love others and thus needing to protect her heart but also reckless with her own physical safety. For Harrison, his paralysis provided a convenient barrier to hide behind, and the excuses to avoid being brave and vulnerable in love continued after his healing. The heart-tugging events that tried and pushed them to open themselves to love captivated me on an emotional level!

Five Stars ~ Never Leave Me by Jody Hedlund is a spellbinding sequel to the Waters of Time story! While Never Leave Me fully completes the Waters of Time story as a duology, I'm not ready to conclude this series. I am desperately hoping for another 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 Lights Out by Natalie Walters

 

About the Book ~

CIA analyst Brynn Taylor developed a new program to combat terrorism, and she invited members of foreign intelligence agencies to America to foster cooperation between countries. Now one of them, Egyptian spy Remon Riad, is missing.

Jack Hudson has been working for the Strategic Neutralization and Protection Agency (SNAP) for almost nine years and takes the lead in hunting down the missing spy. But he isn't at all pleased to find out Brynn is involved. It's hard to trust a woman who's already betrayed you.

Every lead they follow draws them dangerously deeper into an international plot. Kidnapping, murder, explosions, poisoning--the terrorists will do anything to accomplish their goal of causing a digital blackout that will blind a strategic US military communications center and throw the world into chaos.

Can Brynn surrender control to a man who doesn't trust her? And can Jack ever get over what she did to him? The fate of the world--and their hearts--hangs in the balance.

For more information about Natalie Walters and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If you're looking for a romantic suspense that will have you huddled around a lamp as you read late into the night, then check out Lights Out by Natalie Walters!

Lights Out is a fun, fast-paced read!  I really liked how the author paced the action and information to keep you guessing. Additionally, I liked how the author included short chapters not only from the villains but also from the pawns in their nefarious scheme. While private agencies such as SNAP have been explored in the genre before this, I liked the author's unique spin and the comradery of the team. Additionally, this was a really interesting approach to cyber terrorism.

Brynn and Jack's complicated history left them with a lot of trust issues. While Jack had to work through the fear of trusting Brynn and opening himself up to pain again, Brynn's trust issues ran deeper. The way terrorism had devastated her family had resulted in a life poured into service without any relationships to fight for...a lonely life with root causes that she had to confront. Ultimately, Brynn's heart-tugging spiritual journey took her to a place of complete trust and surrender in God no matter the storm.  

Four Stars ~ Lights Out by Natalie Walters is a thrilling romantic suspense! Lights Out is the first book in the author's new SNAP Agency Series, and I'm looking forward to reading the next 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 After She Falls by Carmen Schober

About the Book ~

She's always had that fire in her. She just needs to find it again.

Strong-willed Adri Rivera nearly achieved her goal of being a professional mixed martial artist, but then she fell in love with a man who knocked all the fight out of her. When their abusive, tumultuous relationship finally comes to a head, Adri flees with their young daughter to her small hometown in the mountains of Pennsylvania. There, she must face the people she left behind and put her broken life back together again.

A hardened Max Lyons can't believe Adri is back in town after abruptly cutting him and everyone else off years ago. Despite the distance that grew between them, he feels compelled to help her regain her independence and offers her a job at his gym. But regaining each other's trust is another matter, made even more complicated by the lingering spark between them. As Adri dares to pursue her dream again, she trains for a big tournament with Max's help, but they'll both have to confront their own doubts in order to rise victorious.

For more information about Carmen Schober and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

After She Falls by Carmen Schober is a winner to add to your shelf!

I'm going to say this right off the bat...I have never been into the Rocky movies. However, I really enjoyed the MMA setting in After She Falls! You don't need to be a diehard fan or MMA expert to read and enjoy the story. Additionally, the author did a really great job writing the fight scenes; they weren't overly complicated, and I could see everything play out in my mind's eye. And as someone with Hispanic/Latino blood, I am always thrilled to see similar characters in fiction!

I appreciated the slow-and-steady spiritual journey Adri and Max took as they grappled with faith, forgiveness, making mistakes, and persevering. Readers will walk away with a sense of determination to apply to their own underdog fights, whether those are personal, spiritual, or professional.

I do want to note that there are triggers in After She Falls, especially pertaining to partying, abuse, sexual objectification, and lust. I applaud the author for writing an authentic story that doesn't shy away from these issues, nor would the overall message have packed the same punch if this had been watered down. However, these things could be very triggering, so readers should be aware of their mental state. While I wouldn't have been able to read this in the past, I'm very glad I got to experience Adri and Max's story now!

Four Stars ~ After She Falls by Carmen Schober is a unique and fresh addition to the Christian Fiction market! After She Falls is a standalone, but I'm looking forward to reading the author's next 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!