Can't Wait Wednesday! Fraser

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

I LOVE Susan May Warren's books and SUPER EXCITED about this new Marshall series coming February 14th!

About the book: Fraser

Fraser Marshall is pretty sure his career as a Spec Ops fighter is over. Yes, he’s gone into private security, working for Jones, Inc, but his last gig ended with him wounded and taken captive. And those wounds just won’t heal. The last thing he wants to do is stick around his family’s winery pressing grapes. But what choices does he have?

The answer comes via a panicked phone call from his kid brother, Creed.

Help, Fraser. I’m in over my head…

Yeah he is, because he’s run away with a princess, with her bodyguard hot on the trail. And said bodyguard, Pippa Butler is going to hunt them down, no matter the cost.

Even if she has to join forces with a bossy, arrogant former American SEAL. But Pippa has her own set of lethal skills, and if Fraser gets in the way, she’ll leave him on the side of the road. Still, maybe he’s not a terrible side-kick. He is handsome, and he makes her laugh…

No, no, bad Pippa! She has no room for a man—an American—in her life. And Fraser hasn’t ever considered slowing down. Even if Pippa has him wondering if there is a different future ahead.

But there’s more to the story than a Romeo-and-Juliet runaway romance. Princess Imani has seen a murder, and the perpetrator isn’t going to let her get away. Will Fraser and Pippa find the couple first?

And if they do, can they work together to keep them safe?

It’ll be tough if their hearts get in the way…

Dive into book one of the epic, romantic, globe-trotting suspense of the Minnesota Marshalls!

The Minnesota Marshalls
Book 1: Fraser
Book 2: Jonas (coming soon)
Book 3: Ned (coming soon)
Book 4: Iris (coming soon)
Book 5: Creed (coming soon)

What are you waiting on this week?

Review: Expired Return

Expired Return by Lisa Phillips
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

This is the first book I’ve read by Lisa Phillips. I enjoyed the suspense, action and relationship dynamics found in the story and also the way other characters were introduced, which intrigued me enough to want to read the coming books in the series.

There was a lot of characters from the Last Chance County series making appearances and it felt like Pepper and Allen story continued from that series, so I might have felt more up to date and in the know if I read that series. However, it did not take away from enjoying this first book in this spin of series (I just have a series to try and catch up now before book two releases).

If you enjoy fast-paced action and suspense with romance, you should pick up this book. I liked the fact that Allen and Pepper had a history, that Allen was not your everyday hero and the fire rescue scenes (big men acting like kids until they are called out – then all business) and the lesson that your family’s mistakes do not define you.

*I received a complimentary book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

View all my reviews

About the book:

She’ll give everything to protect her family.
He always knew she was the one.

Veterinary tech Pepper Miller lives a quiet life in Last Chance County. She’s watching her niece until her sister shows up…if she ever does. When Victory’s father demands he take over her care, Pepper knows something has gone wrong. With a new drug in town, and her sister embroiled in a dangerous bargain, it’s up to Pepper to protect the people she loves.

Even if it costs every secret she’s ever kept.

Fire Department liaison Allen Frees lives with the injuries he sustained as a police officer in a raid gone wrong. He’s put his life back together but getting the truck crew and engine squad to succeed might be his toughest assignment yet. When Victory is nearly kidnapped at a community event, Allen steps in to help Pepper keep her niece safe. The one thing he couldn’t fix was the love he lost, but he isn’t going to let Pepper walk away this time.

No matter what walls he has to break down.

Last Chance County returns in this blazing new series from Sunrise Publishing.

About the Author:

A British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London, Lisa attended Calvary Chapel Bible College where

she met her husband. He's from California, but nobody's perfect. It wasn't until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Since then she's taken the Apprentice and Journeyman writing courses with the Christian Writers Guild, and discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.
Lisa can be found in Idaho wearing either flip-flops or cowgirl boots, depending on the season. She leads worship with her husband at their local church. Together they have two children--a sparkly Little Princess and a Mini Daddy--and two bunny rabbits. 

Top Ten Tuesday: Freebie - Birthday Wishlist

 Join in the Top Ten Tuesday fun! Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.

So, it was my birthday on the 30th and if asked, I request amazon gift vouchers or vouchers for my favourite bookstore.  If I had the money/vouchers, the following books is high on my next to buy list: Wishlist

1.  Brooke

I love Ronie Kendig and loved this action suspense series tackling human trafficking. I am so excited for the 4th book to be released and if I have it in my budget, will buy it immediately!

2.  Fraser

I loved the Montana Marshalls and so excited to get to know their cousins, the Minnesota Marshalls soon!

3.  Return to Boones' Hallow

Enjoyed book one and would love to return to Boone's Hallow

4.  The Vanishing at Castle Moreau

Yes, this one only releases in April, but I will always love a Jamie Jo Dual-time:

5.  Where Grace Appears

This series looks cute:

6.  Stay With Me

Really loved this series and need book 3!

7.  All That's Fair

I loved book one and two and want to continue the series:

8.  Authentically, Izzy

I enjoy this author and love this cover, so need to see if the story is just as cute:

9.  Dark of Night

I would read anything by Colleen Coble:

10.  The Letter Keeper

I want to continue this action packed series:

Book Spotlight Fridays! Everything is Just Beginning

Book Beginnings and Friday56

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your e-reader and share a non-spoiler sentence or two.  First Line Friday is a weekly meme hosted by Reading is my Superpower that asks you to share the first sentence of the book you're reading.

This is a new to me author I discovered in 2022.  

Everything Is Just Beginning

About the book:

An Immersive Story of Music, Struggle, and Starting Over from an Award-Winning Author

Michael Sullivan is a talented lyricist and a decent guitarist, but since he was kicked out of his band (and his apartment), he's not sure he'll ever get a record deal. Living with his loser uncle in a beat-up trailer and working a dead-end job, Michael has little reason to hope for a better future. Until the invitation for a swanky New Year's Eve party shows up in the mailbox. It's for his uncle, with whom he shares his name, but his uncle is going out of town . . .

On the effervescent night of December 31, 1989--as the Berlin Wall is coming down, the Soviet Union is inching toward democracy, and anything seems possible--Michael will cross paths with the accomplished and enigmatic young heir to a fading musical dynasty, forever altering both of their futures.

Award-winning novelist Erin Bartels enchants with this story of two lonely souls who have exactly what the other one needs--if they could simply turn their focus from what is ending to what is just beginning.

*************************************************************

Book Beginnings

I never wanted to live at my Uncle Mike's.

Friday 56

"I tried to refuse."

He rolled the end of his cigar against the stone wall, sending an inch of ash tumbling to the concrete. "I know you did. You're a good kid."

My thoughts so far

This story is interesting and emotional.  Looking forward to finishing it over the weekend.       

                                    ************************************************************* 

Review: The Austen Escape

The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay
My rating: 💛💛💛

Rating 3.5

This was an interesting contemporary novel with the focus on the love of all things Austen. I still need to read all of Jane Austen’s books, but I didn’t feel lost since there was a summary of all the different characters.

I was a bit conflicted while reading this story, because I really disliked Isabelle, but I liked Mary, and they were best friends, so there should be a reason why Mary connected with Isabelle, right? But as the story continued and we learned more about Isabelle’s background, I understood her more, even though I did not agree with her actions.

I loved the dashing gentlemen. The way they acted towards the ladies was sweet and lovely.

I enjoyed seeing the growth in Mollie. From where she just went along with everything to standing up for what she deserves.

*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*

View all my reviews

About the book:

After years of following her best friend’s lead, Mary Davies finds a whimsical trip back to Austen’s Regency England paves the way towards a new future.

Mary Davies lives and works in Austin, Texas, as an industrial engineer. She has an orderly and productive life, a job and colleagues that she enjoys—particularly a certain adorable, intelligent, and hilarious consultant. But something is missing for Mary. When her estranged and emotionally fragile childhood friend Isabel Dwyer offers Mary a two-week stay in a gorgeous manor house in Bath, Mary reluctantly agrees to come along, in hopes that the holiday will shake up her quiet life in just the right ways. But Mary gets more than she bargained for when Isabel loses her memory and fully believes that she lives in Regency England. Mary becomes dependent on a household of strangers to take care of Isabel until she wakes up.

With Mary in charge and surrounded by new friends, Isabel rests and enjoys the leisure of a Regency lady. But life gets even more complicated when Mary makes the discovery that her life and Isabel’s have intersected in more ways that she knew, and she finds herself caught between who Isabel was, who she seems to be, and the man who stands between them. Outings are undertaken, misunderstandings play out, and dancing ensues as this triangle works out their lives and hearts among a company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation.

About the author:

Katherine Reay is the national bestselling and award-winning author of several novels and one full length

non-fiction work.

Katherine holds a BA and MS from Northwestern University and is a wife, mother, rehabbing runner, former marketer, and avid chocolate consumer. She lives outside Chicago, IL.

You can meet her at www.katherinereay.com or on Facebook: KatherineReayBooks, Twitter: @katherine_reay or Instagram: @katherinereay.

Review: Beneath the Bending Skies

Beneath the Bending Skies by Jane Kirkpatrick
My rating: 💛💛💛

Historical fiction fans who enjoy stories rich with historical research will love this story.

The story follows the life of Mollie through the different stages of her life and focusses on her relationships with various people who influenced her life. From her overbearing father to her loving and caring stepmom and a possible love interest.

I enjoyed how the author showed the way the main characters interacted with the native Indians, learned to embrace their customs, and became part of their world.

*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*


View all my reviews

About the book:

Mollie Sheehan has spent much of her life striving to be a dutiful daughter and honor her father's wishes, even when doing so has led to one heartbreak after another. After all, what options does she truly have in 1860s Montana? But providing for her stepfamily during her father's long absences doesn't keep her from wishing for more.

When romance blooms between her and Peter Ronan, Mollie finally allows herself to hope for a brighter future--until her father voices his disapproval of the match and moves her to California to ensure the breakup. Still, time and providence are at work, even when circumstances are at their bleakest. Mollie may soon find that someone far greater than her father is in control of the course of her life--and that even the command to "honor thy father" has its limits.

New from New York Times bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick, Beneath the Bending Skies is a sweeping story of hospitality, destiny, and the bonds of family.

Can't Wait Wednesday: Brooke

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

I love Ronie Kendig and I love The Metcalfes.  The fourth and final book in the series releases February 6th.

About the book: Brooke

She has conquered a male-dominated field, toppled corporate giants, and gained world-wide notoriety and recognition for her prowess in law. But Brooke Metcalfe Mulroney is ill-prepared for the human-trafficking fight that has dragged her across the globe … and straight into the well-muscled, tattooed arms of thick-skulled black-ops operator Cord Taggart.

Oh yeah … This is gonna be just great.

What are you waiting on this week?

Review: Yesterday's Tides

Yesterday's Tides by Roseanna M. White
My rating: 💛💛💛💛

Rating 4.5

“How sometimes, when it feels like the wind and the water are stealing those prayers, we can anchor them to something in our thoughts, as a reminder that no one and nothing can really snatch them away.”

I love everything I read by Roseanna M White, and this story just proved again why. There was a mystery or two to solve, a villain or two which impacted the lives of the characters and well-loved characters from prior series makes an appearance.

This was the first dual-time story this author has written, and she executed it perfectly. Through Louisa and Evie, I was taken from the initial stages of the Great War to WW2, from falling in love to heartache and seeing the impact of both wars.

The author’s descriptive way with words grabbed my attention from the very first sentence. The author made me love a romance, dislike a supporting character through shocking disclosures and made me wish for happily ever after.

And I enjoyed linking the present time with the past before the author revealed the events in the timeline of Yesterday.

Fans of Roseanna M White will not be disappointed, and if you still need to read any of her works, this will be a great book to pick up.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*


View all my reviews

About the book:

In 1942, Evie Farrow is used to life on Ocracoke Island, where every day is the same--until the German U-boats haunting their waters begin to wreak havoc. And when special agent Sterling Bertrand is washed ashore at Evie's inn, her life is turned upside down. While Sterling's injuries keep him inn-bound for weeks, making him even more anxious about the man he's tracking, he becomes increasingly intrigued by Evie, who seems to be hiding secrets of her own.

Decades earlier, in 1914, Englishman Remington Culbreth arrives at the Ocracoke Inn for the summer, but he doesn't count on falling in love with Louisa Adair, the innkeeper's daughter. When war breaks out in Europe, and their relationship is put in jeopardy, will their love survive?

As Evie and Sterling work to track down an elusive German agent, they unravel mysteries that go back a generation. The ripples from the Great War are still rocking their lives, and it seems yesterday's tides may sweep them all into danger again today.

Bestselling and award-winning author Roseanna M. White whisks you away to two periods fraught with peril in this sweeping and romantic dual-time tale.

About the author:

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are

the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. She and her family make their home in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
see also Roseanna White

Also see:  Author Discovery: Roseanna M White

Top ten Tuesday: New-to-Me Authors I Discovered in 2022

 Join in the Top Ten Tuesday fun! Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.

New authors discovered is always difficult to limit to 10, especially when you have discovered many.  The following is authors I discovered in 2022.  I either read more than 1 book, gave 5 stars or placed them on my auto buy list for future publications.

1. Irma Joubert

I am a bit surprised with myself that I only first read her books in 2022.  She is an Afrikaans author living in South Africa.  A few of her books has been translated to English. I read three of her books in 2022:

2. Halle Bridgeman

Hallee Bridgeman has quite a few books published, but her military suspense series which released with Revell in 2022 caught my eye and I really enjoyed the series. Each book flowed differently, and the action and romance well written:

The following three authors I discovered through the Sunrise Media Publication group.  I love their vision where they help talented unpublished authors to find their feet in the publishing world, through creating stories in a well loved and published author's fictional world, with the added bonus of having said author as a mentor.  Lynette Eason mentored the following three authors through her Elite Guardian world.

3. Kate Angelo

4. Sami A Abrahams

5. Kelly Underwood

6. Katie Powner

I enjoyed the contemporary stories provided by this new to me author.  I enjoy her POV of older characters and then the added POV of a younger generation and how the two generations interacts and impacts each other.

7. Mary Alford

I loved her thrilling suspense and will watch out for any future publications in this genre.

8. Toni Shiloh

I enjoyed the way the character's faith was such in integral part of their journey.

9. Erin Bartels

Her story was strong and emotional and tackled some harder topics.

10. Bethany Turner

I enjoyed this lighter fun contemporary.

Weekend Wrap-Up: January 22nd

 

 It’s Monday! What are you reading? is hosted by Book Date.

We had the boys' party this weekend and after starting the day with a 16km run, I was drained by the end of the day!

But everyone had a lot of fun and there was lots of swimming.

Finished

(Reviews can be found under Book Review tag)

Currently reading

Next up:

What are you reading this week?

Blog Posts Recap:

Here is my past week's Blog Posts.

Top Ten Tuesday

Can't Wait Wednesday

Book Spotlight Fridays!

Saturday Series Discovery

Adding to the Bookshelf:

Which Avid Reader do not add to their shelves! I try to limit mine to review books since I have so many owned on my TBR to read.  So did I add to my shelf this week? 

So, this week I did add a few books, three ARC's in total - at least I didn't buy anything: