“In the Mood” Review

Hello Everyone!

Life as been crazy, I’m going back to school to get my master in Intercultural Mediation and Social Intervention, which means I won’t have a lot of time to get reviews done. That is, until I get things back on track. But, one thing is for sure, reading as helped me keeping my sanity.

One of the books I read while getting things ready was the one I’m reviewing right now.

“In The Mood“, written by M. W. Arnold, is a Historical Saga, the Fourth Book in Broken Wings series, published on 26th September 2022.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and M. W. Arnold for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Synopsis

During a hectic couple of weeks in February 1944, the girls of the Air Transport Auxiliary Mystery Club must face devastating personal loss amongst their number. A member of an illegal faction blackmails Betty, whilst a mystery at Mary’s ancestral home threatens to cause more trouble than anyone thought possible. In the midst of what should be the happiest of times, the portents seem to be catching up and little is what it seems to be. Can the girls find the strength to battle forces both internal and external, yet still maintain their dignity and friendship?

Purchase Link: Amazon UK | Amazon US

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About the Author

Mick is a hopeless romantic who was born in England and spent fifteen years roaming around the world in the pay of HM Queen Elizabeth II in the Royal Air Force before putting down roots and realizing how much he missed the travel. He’s replaced it somewhat with his writing, including reviewing books and supporting fellow saga and romance authors in promoting their novels.

He’s the proud keeper of two Romanian Were Cats bent on world domination, is mad on the music of the Beach Boys, and enjoys the theatre and humoring his Manchester United-supporting wife. Finally, and most importantly, Mick is a full member of the Romantic Novelists Association. In the Mood is the fourth novel in his Broken Wings series and he is very proud to be a part of the Vintage Rose Garden at The Wild Rose Press.

Social media links: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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My Review

When I first read a book by M.W. Arnold, I was captivated by the story and the characters he brought to us. This series also gave me the same feeling as that first book.

“In The Mood” is the forth book in the Broken Wings series, so if you haven’t read the previous books, you really should, because we go back to following the ladies at the Air Transport Auxiliary, during WWII.

War is still going, and some mysteries continue as we go through the motions of the drama and romance, and above all, as we continue the friendship with the characters. These women just captured my heart and mind from the first time they were introduced, and I was really invested in this book to see what was going to happen. Ending up in a rollercoaster of events.

There is still a strong connection to the previous elements of the other three books, with the planes and war and personal events, it just keep building up. Lots of battles to fight and a friendship continuing to give them strength and comfort. To give me comfort in a way, to keep going with my day and the busy schedule.

Overall, I was not disappointed and it was yet another solid book by M.W. Arnold that reminded me of why I like his writing and this genre.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that have given their contribute in this blog tour.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

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“Snow-Kissed Proposals” Review

Hello Friends!

Today, after a long day os work, I’m finally here to share my review of this lovely book.

“Snow-Kissed Proposals“, written by Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes, is a Historical Romance that contains two novellas, published on 25th November 2021 by Mills & Boon.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

A snowy Victorian Christmas – Two festive short stories!

In The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher: wilful, independent heiress, Fiona MacKay, impulsively runs away to a remote Scottish tower where she’s trapped in the snow with equally headstrong, deliciously dishevelled Angus Drummond.

In Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes: fifteen years ago, Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews were cruelly parted, and each blames the other. When Amy becomes Anthony’s new housekeeper, their passion is reawakened!

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About the Author

Jenni Fletcher is the award-winning author of 15 historical romances. She has been nominated for 4 RoNA Awards and won the Libertà Books Shorter Romantic Novel Award in 2020. She lives in Yorkshire with her family and can be contacted via Twitter @JenniAuthor.

Elisabeth’s writing career began when she finished in third place in Harlequin’s So You Think You Can Write contest in 2013.  She was offered a two-book contract and consequently had to admit secret writing was why the house was such a tip.  She is the author of numerous historical romances with Harlequin Mills & Boon covering the Medieval period to Victorian England, and a Second World War romantic historical with One More Chapter. She lives in Cheshire because the car broke down there in 1999 and she never left.

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My Review

Two stories, one book. Two Christmassy stories in a historical romance genre. In The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher and In Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes. I love Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes’ books, so I was very excited to see what these stories would bring. And… Get ready for the Holiday because this book will put you right back on that festive spirit.

A runaway woman, a handsome Scottish man. The all brother of her best friend love story. Jenni Fletcher bring us Fiona and Angus in a brilliant novella that as both romantic, exciting, fun and full of bickering and attraction.

Childhood sweethearts in a lovely romance. Elisabeth Hobbes brings us Amy and Anthony, in a story that talks about misunderstandings, second chances and love.

Both novellas had unique characters that I loves. Enemies to lovers and Second chances, both were amazing in the setting and time period of the book. I loved that in a way I could relate to the characters and that I could understand why things had happen.

Both authors were brilliant, and despite being very much independent stories, they complemented one another with their themes of Love, friendship, chances and changes. Plus the warmth of the story and characters.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“War Clouds Over Blackberry Farm” Review

Hello Friends!

Are we ready for a review? Well, I have been reading and review lots of historical novels, and tonight is another one.

“War Clouds Over Blackberry Farm“, written by Rosie Clarke, is a Historical fiction, Saga novel, the first book in a new series, published on 4th November 2021, by Boldwood Books.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Rosie Clarke for the eCopy of this book, via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

Cambridgeshire – March 1939

As the clouds of war begin to gather in Europe, the Talbot family of rural Blackberry Farm will be torn apart, just as so many families all over the world will be. Life will never be the same again.

Whilst in London, the Salmons family will feel the pain of parting and loss.

Brought together by war, the two families become intertwined and, as the outlook looks bleak, they must draw on each other’s strength to fight through the hard times.

Lizzie Johnson and Tom were sweethearts until a mistake caused a terrible rift. Lizzie takes herself off to London to heal the pain in a glamorous new job but she still loves Tom. His pride has been hurt – but deep down inside Tom still cares. Can they find happiness before their chance is gone and the whole word is swept into the terrible madness of war?

Purchase Links: Amazon

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About the Author

Rosie Clarke is a #1 bestselling saga writer whose most recent books include The Mulberry Lane series. She has written over 100 novels under different pseudonyms and is a RNA Award winner. She lives in Cambridgeshire. Rosie’s brand new saga series, Welcome to Harpers Emporium began in December 2019.

Social Media Links: Facebook | Twitter

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My Review

Rosie Clarke bring us a brand new series, introduced with this book. A book in the WWII era about family, friendship, love and how the times of war affects the community. I love historical novels in that saga subgenre because of how it always have that sense of community and understanding. The characters could be our family members and these could be the stories our grandparents told.

As we get to know the families and the main characters we get to follow in this journey, we are also introduce to the rural ton of Blackberry Farm and also the context of the WWII at that time. I could help myself, I as very curious to know what would happen next. I wanted happiness for the characters and my heart was with them from beginning to end.

Overall, I enjoyed it, and since it was the start of a new series, it made sense that not everything was resolved or even uncovered, and I can’t wait for the next book.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“Never Fall For Your Fiancée” Review

Hello Friends!

I have been away since I started work, I will try to get back to reviewing books, and today I bring one. A book from an author I enjoy.

“Never Fall For Your Fiancée“, written by Virginia Health, is a Historical Romantic Comedy, the first book in The Merriwell Sisters Series, published November 9th 2021 by St. Martin’s Griffin.

Thank you Virginia Heath for the eCopy of the book and for allowing me to read this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Synopsis

The first in a new historical rom-com series, a handsome earl hires a fake fiancée to keep his matchmaking mother at bay, but hilarity ensues when love threatens to complicate everything.

The last thing Hugh Standish, Earl of Fareham, ever wants is a wife. Unfortunately for him, his mother is determined to find him one, even from across the other side of the ocean. So, Hugh invents a fake fiancée to keep his mother’s matchmaking ways at bay. But when Hugh learns his interfering mother is on a ship bound for England, he realizes his complicated, convoluted but convenient ruse is about to implode. Until he collides with a beautiful woman, who might just be the miracle he needs.

Minerva Merriwell has had to struggle to support herself and her two younger sisters ever since their feckless father abandoned them. Work as a woodcut engraver is few and far between, and the Merriwell sisters are nearly penniless. So, when Hugh asks Minerva to pose as his fiancée while his mother is visiting, she knows that while the scheme sounds ludicrous, the offer is too good to pass up.

Once Minerva and her sisters arrive at Hugh’s estate, of course, nothing goes according to his meticulous plan. As hilarity and miscommunication ensue, while everyone tries to keep their tangled stories straight, Hugh and Minerva’s fake engagement starts to turn into a real romance. But can they trust each other, when their relationship started with a lie?

Purchase Link: Amazon

Author Bio

Virginia Heath lives on the outskirts of London with her understanding husband and two, less understanding, teenagers. After spending years teaching history, she decided to follow her dream of writing for Harlequin. Now she spends her days happily writing regency romances, creating heroes that she falls in love with and heroines who inspire her. When she isn’t doing that, Virginia likes to travel to far off places, shop for things that she doesn’t need or read romances written by other people.

Social Media Links – Facebook | Twitter | Website

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My Review

Virginia Health’s books are always on my list, every time a new book is release or is going to be release, I get curious and excited. When I saw this book I was intrigued.

“Never Fall for Your Fiancée” is a Historical Rom-Com, and it wasn’t a surprise. Something I always loved about Virginia Health’s books is the humor in it, because it gave a good balance to the romance and the historical context. Rom-Com’s wasn’t something I thought I would like when I was young, but the added of historical aspects was something that really made me curious. That been said, this book was just spot on, in terms of genre.

As we follow Minerva and Hugh we go on a new journey. We get to know a new-to-us family, and a new social group, since this is the start of a new series. Those of us that have read other books by the author, we know that she give us amazing male characters, and in this story I was not disappoint.

Minerva is one of the Merriwell and she is asked by Hugh Standish, the Earl of Fareham, to pose as his fiancée. I loved that kind of trope. The fake fiancée plot can bring so many possibilities, and Virginia Health did a brilliant job, not that I excepted any less. And the plot of the book had a good development, that and the pace allowed me to understand the characters’ motivations and their background. It all made sense with the romance and how it begun.

Overall, it was amazing to go back to Virginia Health’s world, and to a brand new series with family in the mix. It was a very fun and lovely book to read, specially while resting and relaxing. It gave me laughs, it made me happy, it made me curious, it made me love the characters and want to be a part of the Merriwell Sisters.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author and want me to do a review of your book you can go check out my Request Review page.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books.

And if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

Promo Post: “Benedita” de Filipa Carujo

Hello Friends!

Hoje venho divulgar a pré-venda de um livro de uma editora portuguesa fantástica, Edições Velha Lenda.

“Benedita“, escrito por Filipa Carujo, é um Romance Histórico, que será publicado e cujos envios serão a partir de 16 de outubro de 2021 por Edições Velha Lenda.

Como bem devem saber, adoro históricos. Quando vi que uma autora portuguesa ia lançar um romance histórico fiquei nas nuvens. E mais uma vez a Edições Velha Lenda deixou o meu coração cheio de felicidade e entusiasmo ao apoiarem em novos autores e neste género literário que adoro ler.

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Sinopse

O ano é 1801. Depois do golpe à monarquia francesa, Napoleão Bonaparte usa a sua aliança com Espanha para fazer um ultimato a Portugal: se o país não fechar os portos aos ingleses, os soldados espanhóis atacam.

Benedita parte para a cidade raiana de Elvas. Entre estudos e uma vida tranquila, o seu caminho acaba por se cruzar com o de um homem, revelando-se mais do que uma simples coincidência. E, em pouco tempo, ambos envolvem-se num jogo demasiado perigoso que jamais poderão vencer.

Ela, a protegida do ministro português Luís Pinto de Sousa Coutinho. Ele, sobrinho do Príncipe da Paz, o temido e afamado Manuel Godoy.

Sobreviverá o amor à Guerra das Laranjas?

Link da Pré-Venda: Edições Velha Lenda

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Sobre a Autora

Nasceu a 6 de Dezembro do ano de 2000, na cidade de Évora, Portugal. Desde tenra idade que demonstra uma forte paixão pela literatura, chegando a pedir em criança livros em vez de brinquedos.

Frequentou o Curso de Línguas e Literaturas na Universidade de Évora. E actualmente, investe numa das suas outras paixões: a equitação. Como é na literatura que se descobre enquanto pessoa e é, também, graças a ela que desenvolve a sua percepção do mundo e do ser humano, investe as suas horas vagas nas letras.

Estreia-se no género histórico com o seu romance “Benedita”.

Social Media Links: Edições Velha Lenda | Goodreads | Instagram | Facebook

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Não se esqueçam de comentar, não sejam estranhos.

Se tem alguma recomendação de livros que acham que deva ler podem enviar uma mensagem usando o formulário na página Contact Me.

Se desejarem juntarem-se a mim e serem convidados no blogue, escrevendo um post sobre um tema à vossa escolha, vejam a página Guests Post para saberem mais e para preparamos a sua visita.

Love,

Jess

“The Housekeeper of Thornhallow Hall” Review

Hello Friends!

I feel like I have be reading a lot of Historicals and Thrillers in the past few months, more than other genres. And I’m quite liking it, specially since I have been trying to stay away from paranormal because of the book I’m editing. I still am reading that genre, just not as much.

Anyway, today’s review is a historical romance, from a publisher I like, from an author I’m being introduced to.

“The Housekeeper of Thornhallow Hall“, written by Lotte R. James, is a Historical Romance in the gothic romance subgenre, that will be published on 22nd July 2021, by Mills & Boon.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Lotte R. James for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

She arrived as a housekeeper

Will she leave as a countess?

To some, Thornhallow Hall might be tarnished by tales of vengeance and ghosts, but to new housekeeper Rebecca Merrickson it represents independence and peace from her tumultuous past. Until the estate’s owner, William Reid, the disappeared earl, unexpectedly returns… After clashing with him over the changes she’s made to the house, Rebecca slowly unearths the memories that haunt brooding Liam—and her defiance gives way to a shockingly improper attraction to her master!

Purchase Links: Amazon

Potential Trigger Warnings: Mention of suicide, Mention of emotional parental abuse, Threat of sexual assault, Some mild violence, Mention of mental health problems.

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About the Author

Lotte James trained as an actor and theatre director, but spent most of her life working day jobs crunching numbers whilst dreaming up stories of love and adventure. She’s thrilled to finally be writing those stories, and when she’s not scribbling on tiny pieces of paper, she can usually be found wandering the countryside for inspiration, or nestling with coffee and a book.

Social Media Links: Twitter

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My Review

I have read many historical romances and I have always enjoy them. This one was just as amazing. The novel has put in the subgenre Gothic Romance, and I haven’t explored that subgenre much compared to others, it doesn’t really matter. It was exciting, and it had the elements I love in historical romances.

In this story we follow Rebecca, the new housekeeper at Thornhallow Hall, and William, the earl and owner of the estate. I just loved them. I felt connected to them, I was curious about their lives, their past, and their dreams. And from the very beginning I wanted to know more about them. Memories, uncovering the background of Liam and Rebecca… It all grab my attention.

The circumstances that made them interact, fall in love… It made sense, it was exciting, it had a good pace and flow. Seeing them grow and open up, it helped with connecting with the characters, which is always a plus. With the housekeeper and earl roles, the romance was lovely and emotional. And since it was in a historical setting, it added the context of certain themes of the story and the characters’ life.

Overall, I enjoyed the stor. I liked that there was some drama, romance, secrets and a dark past, it’s just what I like in any book, specially in Historical Romances. The cultural and social elements that make the story unique and take us on this time-trip, is always an welcome read. It was fascinating.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews, Q&As and Limited guest posts.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“Out of the Bower” Review

Hello Friends!

I feel like I have been reading this genre a lot this year, and I’m loving it. So… Ready for a historical romance novel?

“Out of the Bower“, written by A.E. Walnofer, is a Historical Romance novel, the first book in the Durbin Family series, published on 25th December 2020.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and A.E. Walnofer for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

London, 1817: When Barclay Durbin, a young street preacher, encounters Honora Goodwin, injured on a London street, he doesn’t know she has just escaped from Titania’s Bower, a brothel. Taking her to his ancestral home to recover amongst his family, he falls in love with the vivacious girl and comes to believe that she is divinely appointed to become his wife.

Honora begins to feel similarly and knows that the good-hearted gentleman’s attentions would likely ensure her future happiness, but she is intent on liberating Celia Woodlow – the friend she was forced to leave behind at the Bower. Telling Barclay only parts of her own story, Honora enlists the besotted young man to help her.

When their plan goes awry, Honora realizes that only the truth can deliver them from the emotional and societal maelstrom in which they find themselves. But if she divulges all, what will become of Honora and Barclay’s budding attachment? And will Celia ever gain her freedom?

Out of the Bower tells the tale of a forbidden romance, an ardent friendship, and the ever-essential redemption of self.

Purchase Links: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Potential Trigger Warning: One incident of sexual assault in this book is described in limited and nongratuitous detail

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About the Author

A.E. Walnofer spends weekdays mobilizing the soft tissue and synovial joints of patients, and weekends typing out stories that are incessantly brewing inside her head. There are lots of these tales and she hopes to share many more of them with you in the future.

Social Media Links: Website | Goodreads

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My Review

I’m always looking forward to explore more historical books, because every author gives a different feel to the story and explores different elements of history. This book ends up following not only the dynamic between the different classes, but it also opens a window to the lower class back then.

Honora was just trying to find a job, yet things aren’t as they seemed. It’s through her eyes that we follow this heartbreaking and emotional storytelling. Her background was emotional, yes, and at times overwhelming, I didn’t even knew what to think in the end. I had to reflect on all elements and aspects of the plot, setting and characters.

Then there is Barclay (love his name, by the way). He was an amazing character, a man of God. His presence gave the plot a balance, and brought some different elements thanks to his dreams, his family and the background.

Having Honora and Barclay fall in love, seeing their plans, Honora’s goals of helping her friend… It was all a fantastic journey, full of drama, romance, friendship, strength, struggles, redemption. It was the connection between the characters and the ups and downs in the story that grabbed my attention.

Overall, I enjoyed the book. It addresses a darker side of our history, related to topics that aren’t usually talked about in story. Having it in this historical romance, it was refreshing and thought provoking. I can’t wait to see what else will happen in this series and related to this family.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews and basic promo/spotlight posts.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“Wartime Blues for the Harpers Girls” Review

Hello Friends!

Are we ready for a review? Well, I have two today, and this is the first one I’ll post.

“Wartime Blues for the Harpers Girls“, written by Rosie Clarke, is a Historical fiction, Saga novel, the fifth book in the Welcome To Harpers Emporium series, published on 6th July 2021, by Boldwood Books.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Rosie Clarke for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

As the Americans enter the War, there is renewed energy in the war effort.

With husbands and sons fighting for freedom, the women of Harpers are left to tackle the day-to-day affairs at home and work.

With Ben Harper away, Sally fears she is being followed by a mysterious woman. Who is she and what does she want?

Maggie Gibbs collapses seriously ill in the frontline hospitals and is brought back to England close to death. Can she be saved and what does the future hold for her and her broken heart?

Marion Jackson’s father is on the run from the Police already wanted for murder. She fears he will return to threaten his family once more.

And Beth Burrows is pregnant with her second child, worried and anxious for her husband Jack, who has been many months at sea.

As Christmas 1917 approaches what will the future hold for Harpers, its girls and their men at War?

Purchase Links: Amazon

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About the Author

Rosie Clarke is a #1 bestselling saga writer whose most recent books include The Mulberry Lane series. She has written over 100 novels under different pseudonyms and is a RNA Award winner. She lives in Cambridgeshire. Rosie’s brand new saga series, Welcome to Harpers Emporium began in December 2019.

Social Media Links: Facebook | Twitter

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My Review

I have been reading Rosie Clarke’s books for sometime now (although I haven’t read them all), and she was one of those authors that surprised me in the beginning and with each new book, I’m continuing to be surprised. She’s one of the go-to authors when it comes to the saga subgenre of Historical fiction.

This book is the fifth one in the series, and for a better experience, you should read them in order. It has been quite a journey with the Harpers. In all the books there isn’t just the element of war and fear related to it, there is a sense of community, family, love and friendship. And as we go from one book to the next, that keeps making an appearance.

Getting back to this community was kind of like going back to my grandma’s house during summer vacation and reconnect with my family. That’s what this felt like, learning about my family’s life. Just like with our lives, in this book we follow a group os characters that have a background, a past that we have been following since book one. As time passes by, things move forward.

Ups and downs. Love and loss. New generations. Fear and war. The story, despite the time period, felt real, and it’s that kind of connection we established with the characters.

Overall, I enjoyed this book, just like I did the previous one. If you enjoy historical fictions happening during WWI, and you like follow a group of characters throughout their life, then I recommend this series. And like I previous said, do read the books by order to experience the journey to its fullest, and so that you can understand the background without being confused.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“The Marquess Next Door” Review

Hello Friends!

Finally! The last review of the day and I’m back to one of my favorite subgenres in the Historical fiction genre: Regency romance. A book by one of my go-to authors.

“The Marquess Next Door“, written by Virginia Heath, is a Historical Romance, in the Regency romance subgenre, the second book in The Talk of the Beau Monde series, published on 1st July 2021, by Mills & Boon.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Virginia Heath for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

Temptation on her doorstep!

To avoid an unwanted suitor at a ball, Hope Brookes asks another gentleman to rescue her. He obliges – with a surprisingly passionate kiss! Revealed as her sinfully handsome new neighbour, Lucius, Marquess of Thundersley, they forge a friendship over their balconies. It’s refreshing that Lucius is more interested in her writer dreams than her looks, so why can’t she stop thinking about that kiss?

Purchase Links: Amazon | Kobo

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About the Author

When Virginia Heath was a little girl it took her ages to fall asleep, so she made up stories in her head to help pass the time while she was staring at the ceiling. As she got older, the stories became more complicated, sometimes taking weeks to get to the happy ending. Then one day, she decided to embrace the insomnia and start writing them down. Despite that, it still takes her forever to fall asleep.

Social Media Links: Facebook | Twitter

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My Review

If you have ever read Virginia Heath’s books you expect many things. One is amazing and relatable characters. The other is sassiness. Maybe sassy is not the right word, but there is this powerful element with some smirk in the mix, if that makes any sense. It’s this quality of the characters that makes me want to be their friends and sometimes it makes me want to be them.

This story follows Hope, and our lovely female MC is not the typical character one may read in a Historical Romance. Hope is not nobility, although her family is important in the high society class. And I loved that, because I could relate to her even more. Then there is our handsome Marquess next door, Lucius, Marquess of Thundersley.

Every time I read Virginia Heath’s books I have that need to grab a fan and just join the moment and alleviate the heat going through my skin. I loved the steamy interactions between Hope and Lucius, and I loved even more that they not only had the attraction going, they also had a growing friendship.

Another thing I loved about this book was Lucius’ modesty and honesty. I loved how he acted. I loved the refreshing elements in this book that made it so different from others I have read by the author. And I actually believe that so far, this is my favorite book/story so far.

Overall, I don’t even know what else to say. There is drama, there is romance, there is family and friendship, there is a more common element of the society. And if you don’t know Virginia Heath after all the reviews I have done, you should stop and go get this book.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews, basic promo/spotlight posts, guest posts, extracts and Q&As.

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Giveaway

For a chance to Win one of the 2 e-copies of The Marquess Next Door CLICK HERE.

(Open Internationally)

*Terms and Conditions –Worldwide entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“The Orchard Girls” Review

Hello Friends!

And here is the second review of the day. Another Historical Fiction, this one a Dual timeline. I do enjoy dual timelines because they usually are different from the usual historical fiction novels. If this kind of subgenre is your thing, they check out this book.

“The Orchard Girls“, written by Nikola Scott, is a Dual Timeline Historical Fiction, that is going to be published on September 2nd 2021, by Headline Review.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Nikola Scott for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Synopsis

London, 2004. Frankie didn’t always have it easy. Growing up motherless, she was raised by her grandmother, who loved her – and betrayed her. For years, the rift between them seemed irreparable. But when their paths suddenly cross again, Frankie is shocked to realise that her grandmother is slowly losing control of her memory. There is a darkness in her past that won’t stay buried – secrets going back to wartime that may have a devastating effect on Frankie’s own life.

Somerset, 1940. When seventeen-year-old Violet’s life is ripped apart by the London Blitz, she runs away to join the Women’s Land Army, wanting nothing more than to leave her grief behind. But as well as the terror of enemy air raids, the land girls at Winterbourne Orchards face a powerful enemy closer to home. One terrible night, their courage will be put to the test – and the truth of what happened must be kept hidden, forever…

Purchase Links: Amazon

Author Content Warning: Assault and Dementia

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About the Author

Photo Credit
Shelley DeJager

Nikola Scott started out in book publishing and worked as a crime fiction editor in America and England for many years. Turning her back on blood-spattered paperback covers and dead bodies found in woods, she sat down at her kitchen table one day to start her first novel — and hasn’t stopped writing since. Obsessed with history and family stories (‘How exactly did you feel when your parents gave the house to your brother?’) she is well-known – and feared – for digging up dark secrets at dinner parties and turning them into novels. 

Her first two books, My Mother’s Shadow and Summer of Secrets, have both been international bestsellers and were translated widely around the world. Nikola lives in Frankfurt with her husband and two boys (and a kitchen table). 

Once a month, Nikola sends out a popular newsletter about writing, reading, book news, freebies and loads of therapeutic baking. Join in here if you’d love to be a part of it all: bit.ly/NikolaScottNews

Social Media Links: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

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My Review

Dual timeline stories always make me curious. They end up having the perfect mix of historical and contemporary elements, and I’m always interested in seeing how the author connected things.

This story is set during 2004 and 1940, following Frankie in the contemporary time and Violet during WWII. Both characters had amazing personalities and their stories were powerful in different ways. I also liked how it they connected.

I also loved the relationship between Frankie and her grandma, it wasn’t an easy one and it had several problems and learning about them, allowed me to understand not just Frankie’s past, but also the reasons for her actions. Not having a good relationship with a family member is not completely unexpected, actually for me, it made the story and their interactions much truthful and real.

From someone that has seen grandparents lose the control of their minds and memories, I could connect with Frankie. My grandparents also were a very important part of my childhood, although not for the same motives as with Frankie’s life. Using the loss of the control of her mind was quite a good way to connect the dual timeline, and also made the plot curious. I wanted to know more. I was interested in knowing the secrets and the past of the characters, what had happened during the war.

Overall, I love how the story was written. It wasn’t confusing and the connecting between the timelines made sense and I couldn’t stop reading. I was curious from page one, and I wanted to know all the secrets and motivations. It was an enjoyable story that left me emotional.

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Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews, limited Guest Posts and Extracts​.

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Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess