Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe by Carla Laureano

• Series: The Saturday Night Supper Club
• Paperback: 432 pages
• Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (February 5, 2019)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1496420284
• ISBN-13: 978-1496420282

About the Book:

From the RITA Award–winning author of Five Days in Skye comes a sweet, romantic treat that will leave you hungry for more.

Baker and pastry chef Melody Johansson has always believed in finding the positive in every situation, but seven years after she moved to Denver, she can’t deny that she’s stuck in a rut. One relationship after another has ended in disaster, and her classical French training is being wasted on her night job in a mediocre chain bakery. Then the charming and handsome private pilot Justin Keller lands on the doorstep of her workplace in a snowstorm, and Melody feels like it’s a sign that her luck is finally turning around.

Justin is intrigued by the lively bohemian baker, but the last thing he’s looking for is a relationship. His own romantic failures have proven that the demands of his job are incompatible with meaningful connections, and he’s already pledged his life savings to a new business venture across the country―an island air charter in Florida with his sister and brother-in-law.

Against their better judgment, Melody and Justin find themselves drawn together by their unconventional career choices and shared love of adventure. But when an unexpected windfall provides Melody with the chance to open her dream bakery-café in Denver with her best friend, chef Rachel Bishop, she’s faced with an impossible choice: stay and put down roots with the people and place she’s come to call home . . . or give it all up for the man she loves.

My Review:

Oh, where to begin!  I've been a fan of Carla Laureano's since I discovered her fantasy trilogy.  I adored "Five Days In Skye" and the rest of that series.

But when I read "The Saturday Night Supper Club" I was in love, i love, in love!  So when I heard that "Brunch at Bittersweet Care" was coming out, I couldn't wait.  

I'm very happy to report that BatBC was So worth the wait!  Swoony, delicious, realistic, and rich with luscious food!  Melody is so easy to relate to, and I'll be shocked if you don't fall in love with Justin.  And the story is so captivating you'll be done before you know it, wanting more, more, MORE!

As much as I read, I can honestly say "Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe" is one of the absolute best novels I've ever had the pleasure to read.  BatBC is earning a coveted place on my keep forever shelf.  I highly recommend you pick up a copy of BOTH novels--The Saturday Night Supper Club AND Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe!

You'll be so glad you did!

Until the next read,

Deena

* I was provided a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author and volunteered for the opportunity to provide an honest, impartial review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

When You Look at Me by Pepper Basham

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• Series: A Pleasant Gap Romance (Book 2)
• Paperback: 297 pages
• Publisher: Independently published (October 16, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1728674999
• ISBN-13: 978-1728674995
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About the Book:

An unexpected mother-to-be. A romance-leery composer. And a forgotten melody from the past that holds the keys to their futures. 

When Julia Jenkins' great aunt dies and leaves her a Victorian mansion with decades of secrets, Julia never expects to unearth a World War 2 espionage mystery. Struggling with her own past since an assault left her pregnant, her future as a solo parent leaves her dreams uncertain. 

The inheritance from her great aunt gives Julia the ability to take a step back into her future, but also sends her into the discovery of a love story she’d never anticipated. As she goes through her aunt's treasured possessions, Julia uncovers some oddly written piano music with a musical code she can’t decipher on her own. 

Not to worry, introverted Englishman and composer, Henry Wright, is thrust on the scene by a pair of homespun matchmakers who know the ‘right’ man for Julia’s wounded heart. Henry arrives in Pleasant Gap with the task of composing the soundtrack for his best mate’s newest film. The Jenkins’ family’s southern welcome and gregarious personalities set his reticent nature on edge, but he’s inexplicably drawn to his gentle and music-loving hostess, Julia. 

Uncertain how to build a friendship with the wounded woman, and rather hopeless in communicating well through words, the bond of music becomes a bridge between her uncertainty and his awkwardness. But her broken past and his families’ expectations build a wall much greater than the cultures that separate them. 

As they work together to solve a musical mystery from the grave, will an unlikely romance from the past inspire their hearts to trust in a God who’s written the perfect melody for their lives?


My Review:



A gorgeous love story!  Delightful characters!  Rich setting!  I absolutely love Pepper Basham and her stories!

Basham's second novel in the Pleasant Gap series is even better than the first, and that's huge! Julia's story is exquisitely told, moving from brokenness to wholeness in an applicable and realistic way. Plus, there's just something about a courtship when you're already pregnant that just lends itself to both humor and heart! Henry is simply adorkable and very swoon-worthy in his very unique way.  His fumbling, bumbling attempts to woe Julia are both hilarious and heartwarming.  Every woman needs a Henry in her life! As to the emotional power of their love story...well, make sure you have a full box of tissues handy! I’m thrilled to give WYLAM my highest recommendation and wondering why you're still reading my review when you could be diving between the covers of this book!

Until the next read,

Deena

The Bible Promise Book for Bad Days:Inspiration and Encouragement for Kids by Jean Fischer

• Age Range: 6 - 12 years
• Grade Level: 3 - 4
• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Barbour Books (February 1, 2019)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 168322843X
• ISBN-13: 978-1683228431

About the Book:

The Perfect Way for Kids to Turn Bad Days Right-Side-Up Again!

For your kids ages 6 and up, this book of Bible promises will encourage their young hearts. Whether they’ve experienced a hard day because they got a bad grade on a test. . .or they got in a fight with their very best friend. . .or they got in trouble from Mom or Dad for making a bad decision. . .this little book will remind them that tomorrow is a new day and that their heavenly Father loves them—no matter what! The Bible Promise Book® for Bad Days is a great way to lift your kids up and build their faith as they come to know and understand the unending love and grace of their heavenly Father.

My Review:

I'm always excited when I find a book written for kids that had a big message, and The Bible Promise Book For Bad Days is my kind of book! First and foremost, the readings address the kinds of situations and feelings that kids really experience. 

Topics range from getting in trouble at home to being bullied at school...or just having a terrible, horrible, very bad day.

I love that the author doesn't talk down to the reader, nor look down on the reader either.  Each scenario is treated as serious and valid, acknowledging the feelings while guiding toward hope.

Then the reader is given a list of verses that directly address the situation or emotion from God's Word and from His point of view.  And don't let the title fool you!  This is a book that can help mom, dad, grandmother, grandfather...the list is endless.

Because, after all, truth is truth no matter what age we are, right?

I'm highly recommending 'The Bible Promise Book for Bad Days' to you!

Until the next read,

Deena

* I was provided a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author and volunteered for the opportunity to provide an honest, impartial review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

Edge of Peril by Christy Barritt

• Series: Fog Lake Mysteries (Book 1)
• Paperback: 354 pages
• Publisher: Independently published (November 14, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1731332815
• ISBN-13: 978-1731332813

About the Book:

When evil descends like fog on a mountain community, no one feels safe.After hearing about a string of murders in a Smoky Mountain town, journalist Harper Jennings realizes a startling truth. She knows who may be responsible—the same person who tried to kill her three years ago. 

Now Harper must convince the cops to believe her before the killer strikes again.Sheriff Luke Wilder returned to his hometown, determined to keep the promise he made to his dying father. The sleepy tourist area with a tragic past hadn’t seen a murder in decades—until now. 

Keeping the community safe seems impossible as darkness edges closer, threatening to consume everything in its path.As The Watcher grows desperate, Harper and Luke must work together in order to defeat him. 

But the peril around them escalates, making it clear the killer will stop at nothing to get what he wants.

My Review:

Edge of Peril is a departure from Barritt's cozy mysteries. The fabulous character development is there, as well as the surprise twists and turns of the plot.   The new characters are intriguing, and the atmosphere is unique. As for the mystery?  Good luck figuring out whodunnit! 'Edge of Peril' is different from Barritt's other novels--it has a haunted, gothic vibe. The setting becomes a vital character itself, filling the story with intense atmosphere. Kind of makes you want to read this one when you're not alone! And make sure you have all the lights on! Looking forward to the next book in this brand new series!  Highly recommended!

Until the next read,

Deena

* I was provided a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author and volunteered for the opportunity to provide an honest, impartial review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

Mark of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse

• Series: Ravenwood Saga (Book 1)
• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (November 6, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764232827
• ISBN-13: 978-0764232824

About the Book:

Lady Selene is the heir to the Great House of Ravenwood and to a powerful ability. But it comes with a dark secret. T

Tasked with assassinating the man who can destroy her family and the only one who can bring peace to the nation she must choose between justice and honor or legacy and power. 

Is she willing to pay the price for the path she chooses?

My Review:

Oh. My. Word.

Where's the next book? I need it...STAT!

Morgan L. Busse has crafted a world to rival any other world of high fantasy. 'Mark of the Raven' is crisp, sharp, and exquisite. The characters are richly detailed and full of life.   I felt for Lady Selene and her struggle to find her true place in the world.  And I mourned right along with Lord Damien as he grieved the loss of his family.

The world of the seven great houses is sweepingly epic, and rock solid in its creation.  Busse adds subtle nuances that give the story a depth that makes it a true high fantasy fiction that belongs next to Tolkien, Lewis, and Rowling--only hers is better than Potter!

Be prepared to get lost within the pages of 'Mark of the Raven', and you won't want to leave...well, maybe after you meet Selene's mother and sister you might want to depart...but it will be with great reluctance, trust me!

This one book I know I'll never forget. Ever.

Now...about that sequel....

I'm extremely pleased to highly, highly recommend 'Mark of the Raven' to you.  Whether you love fantasy fiction or it's not your taste, this is a book you do not want to miss.

Until the next read,

Deena

* I was provided a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author and volunteered for the opportunity to provide an honest, impartial review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

Once Upon a Montana Summer by Lisa T. Bergren

• Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Stonewater Books (December 3, 2018)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0988547619
• ISBN-13: 978-0988547612

About the Book:

Love is Never Best Played Out on TV...

Adalyn Stalling's clients convinced her to be a contestant on their reality TV show, The One. Hundreds of thousands of viewers tune in each week to watch a group of bachelorettes try to win one bachelor's heart, and then during the next season, watch bachelors do the same.

Adi appeared on the show twice-once as a potential love-match for the bachelor, once as the bachelorette. As a marketing executive for the firm who handles the show, Adi initially became a part of the cast in order to learn more from the "inside." But as much as she wanted to stay professionally removed, she ended up giving her heart to both Adam and Connor.


Both times, the men broke it off.

Now America's most famous "loser at love," Adalyn is trying to pick up the pieces of her life. Given the media frenzy and the paparazzi that chase her, she's finding it difficult. And just as she learns she may have picked up a stalker, her childhood friend, Chase Rollins, tracks her down at last. He informs her that her beloved grandfather is ailing and needs her help, in more ways than one.


So begins an epic summer in which Adalyn needs to decide where she belongs, what she is supposed to do, and with whom she might find true love at last. 

All Once Upon a Montana Summer...

My Review:

Where do I begin? 

My heart is so full after reading Lisa Tawn Bergren's newest novel, 'Once Upon a Montana Summer'! The story is jam-packed with sweet romance, family legacy, and memorable characters. Oh, and I can't forget to tell you about the suspense that takes your breath away! 

Be prepared for tears, giggles, and a lot of mile wide grinning. You'll definitely go on a powerful emotional roller coaster, but it's a ride you'll be very glad you experienced...Unfortunately, it won't be long enough.  You'll want to know more and more and more about Adi and Chase.

Basically, you'll want them to be real so you can invite them over for dinner and learn what happens to them next week, next month...next year!  And that's a very good thing!

Bergren also tackles a question about reality television, especially dating and relationship shows, that I've had for a long time.  How do the contestants handle life after the cameras are turned off?  Do they ever have any regrets?  Any of them feel let down, humiliated, or discouraged if they didn't 'get the rose' so to speak?

To find out you'll have to read Adi's story...and you may change how you view the shows you, um...view.

Looking forward to Bergren's new standalone series of books, all set in different locations and certain to be some of the best romantic fiction you'll find!

I highly recommend 'Once Upon a Montana Summer!

Until the next read,

Deena
* I was provided a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author and volunteered for the opportunity to provide an honest, impartial review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions I have expressed are entirely my own.

Bookishly Ever After by Sarah Monzon

• File Size: 904 KB
• Print Length: 101 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publication Date: July 3, 2018
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC

About the Book:

It all started with a bet and a book.

Emory Blake is the ultimate bibliophile. She’d take curling up with a good novel over a night on the town any day of the week. But then best friend Tate Woodby accuses her of living between the pages of her paperbacks instead of the real world, and makes a bet that will force her to experience the adventures of her fictional friends…instead of just reading about them. 

With her face no longer buried in books, Emory must confront the pain of the past. But is it also her perfect opportunity to discover the hunky hero who could be the happily-ever-after of her own story?

My Review:

This was such a fun story!  'Bookishly Ever After' is the first novella in Sarah Monzon's 'Book Nerds and Boyfriends' series, and it's a fairly quick read (around 100 pages).  Though the page count is low, the action found between the covers is jam packed with humor and heart.

So why is Emory content to exist within the world of her books?  Because books are safe--they don't expect anything, they don't get pushy, and they are basically safe.  Compared to the real world.  Right?

Tate is the best kind of friend, challenging Emory to leave her world of imaginary people and to interact with real life people.  However, he has a hidden agenda, and you can probably surmise it has to do with a thing called love.

I loved the premise, the execution, and the characters.  I'll be reading the rest of the 'BN&BF' series for sure.  I'm pleased to recommend 'Bookishly Ever After' to you.  I grabbed a digital copy of this one, and it's available now!

Until the next read,

Deena