Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #Romance #Family Jill Weatherholt, #Family #Romance Jacquie Biggar, #Historical #Family #Romance C.E. Robinson

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of  their top reviews.

The first book is the lovely romance with the focus on family by Jill Weatherholt – Searching for Home

About the book

Can three little matchmakers

lasso a cowboy father?

When injured professional bull rider Luke Beckett returns to his hometown to recover, he doesn’t expect his B and B host and physical therapist to be his first and only love, Meg Brennan. He’s also unprepared for Meg’s adorable triplets to steal his heart. Luke’s past has him doubting he’s good enough for Meg and the children, but they might be just what the doctor ordered to help him heal…

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

One of the reviews for the book

D.L. Finn 5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderfully uplifting romance full of faith and miscommunication.  Reviewed in the United States

“Searching for Home” is a wonderfully uplifting romance full of faith and miscommunication. Meg gives up her successful physical therapy practice to raise her sister’s triplets and take over the bed-and-breakfast. She’s struggling to make ends meet and fixing up the property. When an expected guest, Luke, shows up to recover from an injury—or her high school love. Both are hurting from the past, but right now, it’s the children who need attention and love after being discarded by their parents, along with the business.

Meg is a wonderful character who tries to balance being a mother, running the inn, and still doing physical therapy while fighting her feelings for Luke. The love that still exists between the two is obvious to everyone but them. It was easy to have empathy for Luke and his past. I love how he jumped right in to help remodel and develop a bond with the children, especially Tucker. I read this in one sitting, hoping they’d finally have that talk. A sweet romance that I can highly recommend. 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Jill Weatherholt

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Goodreads: Jill Weatherholt – Website: Jill Weatherholt – Twitter: @JillWeatherholt

The next book is another outstanding romance – Letting Go: The Defiant Sisters- Book1 (The Defiant Sisters Duet) by Jacquie Biggar.

About the book

A coming-of-age novel about the pain of misconceptions and learning from them.
When life gives you lemons…

Izzy

Mom is barely in the grave and the prodigal child is here to pick the bones clean.

I don’t want her here. My sister’s defection is a wound that won’t heal, and her return simply rubs at the scabs covering my heart.

I’ve managed just fine without her. She can go back to her fancy college and forget about us- that’s what she does best anyway.

If only I didn’t need her help. Or miss her so much.

Renee

The day my dad committed suicide I ran. I’ve been running ever since.

Going home is supposed to be the answer, instead it makes me question every thoughtless decision I’ve made.

My sister hates me. My little brother barely knows me. And Simon… is engaged.

None of it matters- or so I tell myself. I’m here to make amends and face a past haunted with regret.

As long as I can convince myself to stay.

Letting Go is a young adult romance dealing with tragedy, restitution, and love in all its aspects. The story relates to sensitive topics that may be triggering for some readers.

One of the reviews for the book

Carla the Reader 5.0 out of 5 stars A Wonderful Coming of Age Story with Grief, Reconciliation and Family  Reviewed in the United States

I loved Letting Go and am looking forward to the second book in The Defiant Sisters series. Renee had just graduated from high school, was dating the love of her life and was ready to head off to college when her life fell apart. She saw her high school sweetheart embracing someone else, her sister told her he had been fooling around on her and she found her father dead in the backyard from suicide. Not able to deal with it, she ran off to school leaving everything behind. Two years later, she heads back to town after finding out her mother has died. Her younger sister, Izzy, barely an adult is trying to hold everything together for her twelve year old brother. Social services is knocking at the door, she has a pile of unpaid bills and has no desire to see her sister who ran out on them two years ago. Will these two be able to reconcile? What is going to happen when she runs into Simon?

This was a great story about reconciliation, returning home, family and coming of age. Renee comes to town with the idea of attending her mother’s funeral and heading back to California to open her own therapy practice. When she hits Simon’s grandmother while she is crossing the road, those plans change. With forced proximity, Simon and Renee spend time together and realize they still have feelings for one another. This story isn’t all that long (240 pgs.) but it sure packs a lot between the pages. We see how Izzy has been trying to keep afloat, her little brother’s depression growing, Renee’s guilt, some romance and more. Jacquie’s writing is descriptive with a well plotted storyline and she makes her characters relatable. I am not a big fan of cliff hangers and although this book doesn’t really end with a cliffhanger, there are several unanswered questions that I am anxious to see how they are resolved. I will be watching for Finding Me, the next book in this duology. 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

A small selection of Jacquie’s books

Connect to Jacquie, read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Jacquie : Goodreads – website: Jacquie Biggar – Twitter: @jacqbiggar

And the final book today is the recommended historical romance – Three Years of her Life by C.E. Robinson

About the book

This debut novel is an indelible portrait of family love, trust, commitment, and unrelenting prejudice. A stirring tale that rides the line between historical fiction and romance., inspired by a famous musician’s hidden secret in Germany.

Three Years of Her Life, set in New England and Central Europe, is similar in concern and significant issues to bestselling America epic books of the Great Depression, The Great War and the U.S. South. People and places focused, the novel’s heartwarming and heart wrenching themes mark history in unsettled times.

A mystery woman’s photo, in question, is in famous grandfather’s gold pocket watch for over fifty years. It devastates Elizabeth’s estranged grandmother, and she convinces Elizabeth to find the link. At a loss how, Elizabeth’s on track to be a nurse not a detective, she gets help from Erik, the doctor who captures her heart. He becomes obsessed with uncovering her grandfather’s secret, and discovers more in Germany than the family can take. Now he shares a family heritage. When Elizabeth tries to stand up for Erik and her grandfather, it backfires.

Complicating her own life, Elizabeth falls into an entanglement with her guitar teacher. It’s only a longer-for connection to musicians, her absent father and dead grandfather, but it causes uncertainty. She’s now torn between two very different men. And what happens if and when she lets one of them go? Erik tips the balance for Elizabeth’s decision. He proves his character by risking his life transporting East Berlin hospital patients to the West through the Berlin Wall. But, what if border guards trap him in East Berlin? Unbeknown to Elizabeth, before Erik leaves on the mission, he sets up her future. And, he’s dead serious about the plan.

One of the reviews for the novel on Goodreads

D. Peach Four Stars October 6, 2022

At the opening of Robinson’s debut novel, Elizabeth is on her way to nursing school. It’s 1957, and she stops by to visit her stern grandmother, a woman of German descent, who gives her a locket that belonged to Elizabeth’s deceased grandfather. Inside the locket is the picture of a woman, and her grandmother wants Elizabeth to find out who the woman was.

But Elizabeth gets distracted with nursing school and a romance with Erik, a Jewish doctor and all-around great guy. When she eventually learns the truth of the locket’s portrait—that the woman is her true great-grandmother, and that she was Jewish—her extended family erupts with some hateful antisemitism.

Though her family’s reaction is painful, and Erik’s Jewish mother is resentful of Elizabeth’s relationship with her son, Elizabeth and Erik are generally secure in their relationship, and at its heart, this is a romance with some ups and downs, most of them brought on by Elizabeth’s childhood trauma at her grandmother’s hands.

Elizabeth’s love of music (something she inherited from her grandfather) plays a large role in the story, and her infatuation with her guitar teacher creates some relationship tension. Erik is a sweetheart throughout, and he was my favorite character, along with Marlene, Elizabeth’s no-nonsense friend.

The pace is moderate with a fair amount of exposition in the beginning, which gets Elizabeth through nursing school. Once she and Erik fall in love, there are numerous vignettes showing the development of their relationship as well as her growing musical talent. A significant change happens in the last 15% of the story when Erik travels to Germany as the Berlin Wall reshapes Europe, finishing up the love story with plenty of suspense. This is a lovely debut romance novel for readers who enjoy a bit of historical fiction, family saga, and suspense added into the mix.  

Read the other reviews and buy the book:Amazon US – And:Amazon UK

Connect with Christine: Amazon: USA – UK – CA – AUS – IN –  Follow Christine: Goodreads – Blog – Facebook – Twitter – LinkedIn

 

Thanks for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books… Sally.

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #Memoir #Stroke Maureen Twomey, #Memoir #France Lindy Viandier, #Humour #Life #Shortstories Geoff Le Pard

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of  their top reviews.

In this last post in the Summer Book Fair series I am sharing three new books that have been featured in the last few weeks.

The first is author today is Maureen Twomey with her memoir Before, Afdre, and After (My stroke … oh what fun)

About the book

When Maureen Twomey was only thirty-three years old, she experienced a massive stroke—one that took away her ability to read, write, walk, and even speak (AAAAAAAHHH!!). Well, she wasn’t about to go down without a fight. In Before, Afdre, and After, Twomey offers a sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes comical, and ultimately inspiring account of what it is to lose everything when you’re supposed to be in the prime of your life—and what it takes to get it back, piece by tiny piece.

One of the reviews for the book

Gwendolyn Plano5.0 out of 5 stars Extraordinary journey after a stroke

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

Soon after I read Twomey’s book, I suffered a cerebral spinal cord leak that affected my memory, my focus, my life. Her book helped me through this ordeal and provided hope. I was charmed by her lightheartedness, and her ability to take one step at a time and be thankful for it. As she relays so beautifully in Before, AFDRE, and After, life has surprises that challenge us to our core. It’s our choice how we respond. I’m indebted to the author for she unknowingly accompanied me through my challenging journey. 

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Connect to Maureen: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Maureen: Goodreads – Website/Blog: Maureen Twomey WordPress – Facebook: Maureen Twomey 7 – Twitter: @Maureen_2me

The next book is the second in the Life at Les Libellules series released in late June and already receiving great reviews. Mellow Mist and Walnut Wine: A recipe for Life in the French Countryside by Lindy Viandier.

One of the reviews for the book

M. Werdermann 5.0 out of 5 stars The perfect de-stressor  Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Light a candle, pour yourself a glass of wine, and join Lindy and Mr. V. in the French countryside to let your daily cares drift away. It’s not often that a sequel is as good as the original, but this is one of those rare exceptions. Mellow Mists and Walnut Wine picks up where Damsen Skies and Dragon Flies left off, following the intrepid couple’s further adventures renovating a 300-year-old, fairytale French house and learning more about its fascinating history and environment along the way. Side trips to beautiful locales are described in exquisite detail, and characters familiar and new add depth to the stories.

It’s a gentle read, full of love of nature and the local culture. …and then there are the recipes! Having LOVED the recipes from her first book, I can’t wait to try these new ones. Lindy’s recipes are both simple to make and sumptuous to taste! I highly recommend Mellow Mists and Walnut Wine. If you haven’t read Damsen Skies and Dragon Flies already, though, I highly recommend you get both and start reading from the beginning. 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US – And: Worldwide

Also by Lindy Viandier

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US – Follow Lindy: Goodreads – Facebook: Lindy Viandier – Twitter: @LindyViandier – Instagram: La Belle Vie in Burgundy

The final book today is the  latest release by Geoff Le Pard…a short story collection  Life, DEATH and Other Characters

About the collection

What would you do if you were to host a dinner party and the sky wasn’t what you’d ordered? Could you find someone to shake out the creases from the clouds and tone down the wind to an acceptable zephyr? And what are the challenges facing a Portal Management Volunteer as they steer the recently departed to their chosen Hereafter? Or how would you organise your life if you were called to do God service just when you’d planned on making marmalade that weekend? Life, DEATH and Other Characters will inform and, where necessary, guide you through these and other complications amongst a lot of other short fiction that will educate inform and entertain. Well, maybe one out of three.

One of the reviews for the book on Goodreads

V.M. Sang Five Stars June 22, 2023

Geoff Le Pard has written a book of short stories that are not to be missed. Whoever you are, there is something for you here. I am not usually one for short stories, but I loved this.
There is such a variety of stories here. Some are irreverent, with tales of problems that God has; some are lough out loud funny; some are short; some are longer; some have deeper meanings for those who wish to search for them.

I love the tales where Death (or De’Ath as he has decided to call himself) is a character, but I can’t say I have a favourite story. They are all my favourites.

It is an easy read for when you have only a few minutes and don’t want to plough through a chapter of a full-scale novel. There will be a story that can fit into your time-scale. Or do what I did and start at the beginning and continue to the end.

Some of the stories are commentaries (disguised, of course) on modern life, and politics.
Whoever you are, I recommend this book to you. 

Head over to buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

A selection of books by Geoff Le Pard

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Website: Geoff Le Pard – Goodreads: Geoff on Goodreads – Twitter: @geofflepard

 

Thanks for joining me for the Summer Book Fair and I hope you have loaded up your TBRs to enjoy over the coming months.. Sally.

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #Memoir #History Darlene Foster, #Crime #Thriller Fiona Tarr, #Crime #Mystery Georgia Rose

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of  their top reviews.

The first book today is the recent release by Darlene Foster...a memoir….You Can Take The Girl From The Prairie: Stories about growing up on the Canadian prairies

About the book

A collection of short stories inspired by growing up on a prairie farm in the fifties and sixties. Some of the stories are humorous and others sad, but all heartfelt. Stories about family life, cowboy wisdom, immigrant grandmothers, an inspiring teacher, and the arrival of a new sibling are part of this collection of tales from another time and another place. Proof that you can take the girl from the prairie but you can’t take the prairie from the girl.

One of the  reviews for the book

Lauren Scott 5.0 out of 5 stars Touching stories about family and farm living  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on June 9, 2023

Darlene Foster compiles a lovely collection of short stories inspired by her memories of growing up on a prairie farm in Canada. Family is the touchstone in each heartfelt story, and Foster’s writing flows so genuinely as if she’s narrating her memories to a group of friends relaxing around a crackling campfire. She admits in the introduction that she didn’t appreciate her life on the prairie as a young girl. “But over time, I realized that what I had as a child was special – the freedom, safety, fresh air, home-grown food, friendly neighbors…”

You Can Take the Girl from the Prairie reveals how hindsight is twenty-twenty.I’ve always lived in the city, but as I’ve grown older, the solitude offered in a country setting is appealing. So, I looked forward to reading about Foster’s life on the farm. She pays high regard to her parents and grandparents and everyone she has met on her path. There is no doubt she possesses a grateful heart.

I enjoyed this entire collection, but a few heartwarming favorites spoke about Foster’s baby brother entering her world as though out of a fairytale. The love in her heart for her cowboy, heroic dad shines, and when she writes about a special teacher, I thought of a teacher in my high school years that had the same positive effect. Foster infuses humor in “Good Hands,” which made me laugh when I read about her dad chasing a cow that jumped off the back of a truck on the way to the vet. But one story that made me teary-eyed and tugged at my heart is “Losing Tim,” which gave me a personal glimpse into the author’s life.

Each memory pulled me in deeper, so I read this book in one sitting. Each story draws out various emotions known to the human heart. I highly recommend this beautiful collection to anyone interested in life on a farm, but who also enjoys touching family stories.

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon CA – And: Amazon UK

A selection of other books by Darlene Foster

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Website/Blog: Darlene Foster WordPress – Goodreads: Goodreads – Twitter: @supermegawoman

Another of my recent recommendations was for  the crime thriller set in the Australian outback and the first in Opal Fields series.. Her Buried Bones by Fiona Tarr.

About the book

She came to find answers – she discovered a trail of secrets…

When Jenny Williams took a job as the new constable in an outback opal mining town, she thought she’d be hunting down clues to find her missing aunt and cousin. But when a young woman’s body is found at the bottom of a mine shaft, a possible murder forces her personal agenda to take a back seat.

Jenny goes head to head with her new commanding officer. He doesn’t want to ruffle feathers in town and rules the case Death By Misadventure. But Jenny is sure the dead woman met with foul play.

Risking her job, and her chance at solving her family mystery, Jenny will go behind her boss’s back and uncover not only a killer, but a lead that could reveal a decade of corruption.

This case could be the link she’s been hoping for. But it might just end her career.

Or even her life!

My review for the book 17th June 2022

Great characters and setting for a fast paced crime thriller that is hard to put down once you start reading.

Considering not a lot happens on the crime front in this former thriving opal mining town, Jenny Williams finds herself knee deep in a mysterious death in her first week on the job. There are reservations amongst the existing police force about why this bright young constable wanted to be stationed in this remote area of the outback but Jenny works hard to gain their trust and acceptance.

There are hidden depths to this dusty and sleepy town and not all are down disused opal mines. Families in the area also have experienced unsolved tragedies over the years and as Jenny gets to know the key local players she begins to wonder how her own family mystery might be connected.

As the clues and action intensifies, it becomes clear that someone does not want Jenny digging into this current case and will do anything to stop any further investigation by any means possible.

I certainly was engaged from beginning to end and I am looking forward to the next two in the series and a fourth due out in July. Highly recommended.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon AU –  Amazon US – Amazon UK

A selection of other books by Fiona Tarr

Read the reviews and Buy: Amazon Au – Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Fiona: Goodreads – Website :A Time 2 Write – Twitter: @FionaTarr

And the final book today that I recently reviewed is the thriller set in a village shocked by vicious murders. A Killer Strikes: (A Shade Darker Book 1) by Georgia Rose.

About the book

The perfect family… The perfect murders…

A family massacred. A village in mourning. Can anyone sleep safely while a killer is on the loose?

Laura Percival, owner of The Stables, notices something wrong at her friend’s house when out on her morning ride. Further investigation reveals scenes she’ll never forget.

While the police are quick to accuse, Laura is less so, defending those around her as she struggles to make sense of the deaths. And all the time she wonders if she really knew her friends at all.

A chance encounter opens up a line of investigation that uncovers a secret life. One that Laura is much closer to than she ever realised.

One of the reviews for the book

Cathy 5.0 out of 5 stars Great start to a new series  Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧

‘Death is no stranger. I have known it. Tasted it. Seen its violent colours. Its abrupt finality. Yet still, I didn’t see it coming.’

These are the opening lines that drew me straight into this story. Laura Percival owned a successful livery stable and ran it with the help of her good friends, Harry and Pip. Her life was back on an even keel even if she did need medication to help her sleep. She still blamed herself for the death of her beloved husband, Matt, in a car accident, but had found love again with Sebastian.

As Laura rode past the house of her good friends and neighbours, the Jacksons, she couldn’t understand why the washing was still hanging, sodden, on the line after three days. She knew they hadn’t gone away, the cars were on the drive and she was certain they would have let her know because she looked after their cats when they were away. When she voiced her thoughts to Sebastian, he didn’t share her concerns.

Were they just recovering from the celebrations? Laura couldn’t imagine that being the case, even more so when her text went unanswered. She was determined to make sure all was well, using her key when there was no answer to the ringing of the bell. She was totally unprepared for the horror she discovered.

A Killer Strikes is a tense, character driven story, told from Laura’s perspective in the present tense, which puts the reader right there with her. She’s struggling to process what’s happened. The fact her friends are under suspicion gives her the impetus to do a little digging herself, putting her at odds with the police. The situation isn’t helped by the malicious gossip from the proprietress of the local shop, which adds to the tension in the community and the resulting circulating rumours.

The characters, most likeable, others not so much, are realistic and believable in the small village setting. It was very good to see Laura’s development as the story unfolds. She has a lot to deal with.

A well written and thought through story in a very atmospheric setting with a shocking twist at the end. A great start to a new series. 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

A selection of other books by Georgia Rose

Head over to read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon UK –  And: Amazon US – Follow Georgia: Goodreads – Facebook: Georgia Rose Books –  Twitter: @GeorgiaRoseBook

 

Thanks very much for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books.. Sally.

 

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #Contemporary #Romance Stevie Turner, #Supernatural #Adventure John W. Howell, #ComingofAge, #Family #Relationships Beem Weeks

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of  their top reviews.

The first book today is a book that has many twists and turns Stevie Turner  – and her contemporary romance – Falling.

About the book

Death seems preferable to wasting what remains of his youth in prison.

James Hynde, fortified by several tots of whiskey, climbs up onto the roof of Parker Mews’ multi-storey car park and peers over the parapet. The game is up. The police will soon seize his millions, the Maserati, the London townhouse, and the Caribbean mansion on Windjammer Island.

Should he jump feet first or hold out his arms and topple over and over like a somersaulting gymnast? He closes his eyes, feels the breeze on his face, and pitches forward into the unknown.

Sixty feet below, Olivia Benet, a budding ballerina, rushes along Parker Mews towards the entrance to the multi-storey. Her interview for the Royal Ballet had taken much longer than expected, and she has but a few short minutes left before her parking ticket expires.

James has no idea of the consequences his action will have on his and Olivia’s lives.

‘Falling’ made the finals of the 2022 Page Turner Writing Award.  

One of the reviews for the book

DGKaye 5.0 out of 5 stars A fun romp  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

This is a story of both the literal falling and everything else that falls around James Hynde’s world after his intended demise falls apart, leaving poor Olivia Benet to take ‘the fall’. As always, Turner always delivers a good story in the women’s fiction category.

James Hynde was in a world of trouble due to his greed and decides the only way out of his mess is to commit suicide – but he couldn’t even get that right because when you’re running bad, the streak continues. Sadly, James’ lame attempt of jumping off a building landed him right on top of poor, innocent 19 years old, Olivia Benet, below. She broke his fall and got the brunt of injuries and paid the price by ending up in a wheelchair and losing her dream to join the ballet company.

Olivia decides to visit James in jail before she began her suing endeavor, to see if she can detect any remorse. Her visits became more frequent to the jail as the more James was rude, the more she felt she had to hear something compassionate. On one of her visits, he finally opens up to her and apologizes. This broke the ice, and we see an ‘interesting’ relationship develop between them. James eventually bares his soul to Olivia, telling her some juicy scoop about some of the money he’d swindled and where it was. This interested Olivia.

When James gets out of jail, his relationship with Olivia heats up. They get together, and then again separate. Later when they reunite, they decide to start up a new business together, out of the city, away from the competition. Some new shady characters are introduced in the new business, along with some baggage from James’ past – mainly, a greedy ex wife.

So, what happens when ex-wife Fiona shows up? Well, you’re going to have to read on to find out what exactly she is after!

Stevie’s books never disappoint. With engaging characters and wonderful plot lines, this book is a lovely escape read.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

A small selection of other books by Stevie Turner

Read the reviews and buy the books : Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Stevie : Goodreads blog: Stevie Turner on WordPress – Twitter: @StevieTurner6

The next book is another that I very much enjoyed and is by John W. Howell the sequel to the excellent Eternal Road... another supernatural adventure…The Last Drive

About the book

In the sequel to Eternal Road – The final stop, Sam and James are reunited to look for two souls, Ryan and Eddie. Ryan was killed in Afghanistan, trying to avoid a schoolyard with his crippled plane. Eddie Rickenbacker, Ryan’s hero, is to guide Ryan to his Eternal Home, and now both are missing.

The higher-ups believe that there has been some interference in Ryan and Eddie’s journey by Lucifer, so Sam and James have the task of finding Ryan and Eddie to get them back on the road despite the evil interference. Unfortunately, the machinations designed to prevent Ryan and Eddy from completing their journey takes the pair to horrifying testing grounds. The places visited represent the best work of the Devil. They are the trenches of World War I in France, gladiators at the Roman Coliseum, the sinking Titanic in 1912, Hiroshima 45 minutes before the bomb, and the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1943.

This book is for you if you like plenty of action, strong characters, time travel, and a touch of spiritual and historical fiction. So, join Sam and James as they try to find the missing souls while staying one step ahead of the Prince of Darkness, who is determined to destroy all that is good.

One of the reviews for the book

Elizabeth Gauffreau 5.0 out of 5 stars A Sequel Full of Surprises!  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

As the sequel to Eternal Road, The Last Drive by John Howell features the two main characters from the first book: James, a young man who was recently killed in an car accident, and Samantha (Sam), a now-grown friend from James’s childhood, who was murdered when she was seven years old. In Eternal Road, Sam served as James’s spirit guide to help him find his eternal home.

In The Last Drive, Sam has been asked by the Archangel Michael to find Eddie Rickenbacker, the World War I flying ace, and Ryan Sanders, an Air Force pilot who was recently killed in Afghanistan when he stayed in his burning plane to avoid crashing into a civilian settlement. Eddie is serving as Ryan’s spirit guide to find his eternal home; however, the two have gone missing. The Archangel suspects they have crossed paths with Lucifer, who is forever trolling for souls who haven’t yet found their eternal home.

Sam’s response to the Archangel is the same as mine would have been: “ ‘I’m surprised God and yourself don’t keep track of this kind of thing.’ ” Including this exchange in the opening chapter is a good demonstration of Howell’s skill in suspending the reader’s disbelief in the fictional world he has created.

The Archangel’s response to Sam’s question raises thorny questions of free will, predestination, and Divine intervention. These questions hover over the four main characters’ subsequent interactions with Lucifer. In fact, at one point, Sam proposes a deal with the Devil that took me completely by surprise–but was oh, so right.

As the prime mover of villainy, Lucifer chooses to torture Sam, James, Ryan, and Eddie with a series of moral dilemmas by plunking them into horrific historical events, including the sinking of the Titanic, the Auschwitz concentration camp, and the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. For people who are essentially good, this would be the equivalent of being dangled over a lake of fire by one ankle.

However, the Lucifer of The Last Drive tries to present himself as the charming rogue or, at times, the cartoonish, mustache-twirling villain–all in an attempt to manipulate the souls he is going after into underestimating him.

One aspect of the novel I particularly appreciated was that, although the same afterlife “rules” were carried over from Eternal Road to The Last Drive, new ones were introduced that surprised me, in particular that education continues into the afterlife. Although this feature of the afterlife is used as a plot device to give Sam and James the knowledge they need to extricate themselves from Lucifer’s clutches, I think it’s more than that. If we think of the afterlife as eternal paradise, then it makes perfect sense that the ability to learn and gain new knowledge would be a part of it. Learning for its own sake is, at its heart, a joyous and life-affirming act. (Take THAT, Lucifer.)

To sum up, I found The Last Drive an engaging and satisfying read. The stakes of the plot are high, the action fast-paced, the historical research thorough, and the main characters well-developed and likable (with the exception of Lucifer, of course). In addition to the other surprises I’ve noted, the ending of The Last Drive also surprised me–in the best possible way. I highly recommend this surprising sequel to Eternal Road! 

Head over to buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Other books by John Howell

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – and on: Amazon UK – Goodreads:John Howell Goodreads – Blog: John W. Howell. com – Twitter – @HowellWave

The final book today is the intriguing and highly recommended collection of stories Strange Hwy by Beem Weeks...

About the collection

If you ever find yourself on the Strange Hwy—don’t turn around. Don’t panic. Just. Keep. Going. You never know what you’ll find.
You’ll see magic at the fingertips of an autistic young man,
•A teen girl’s afternoon, lifetime of loss.
•A winged man, an angel? Demon—?
•Mother’s recognition, peace to daughter.
•Danny’s death, stifled secrets.
•Black man’s music, guitar transforms boy.
•Dead brother, open confession.
•First love, supernatural?—family becomes whole!
You can exit the Strange Hwy, and come back any time you want.
See, now you know the way in, don’t be a stranger.

One of the reviews for the collection

Mae Clair 5.0 out of 5 stars Americana at its best  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

This is a fantastic collection of short stories, many of which have a coming-of-age theme. The author has a talent for capturing young voices and setting mood, especially in earlier decades. Many of the stories carry the flavor of the 1950s and 1960s, breathing vivid life into the past. Weeks offers us a slice of Americana in each story. The voices are authentic, descriptions vivid, and the writing polished. Each and every one is a gem, but there are several I must call special attention to.

“Sweetie Girl”—poignant, raw, and sad—addresses the pain of Alzheimer’s; “Memory of a Robot” is filled with the magic of what makes a spring afternoon special; “Overcome (Holy Water”), takes a look at a flood in the Jim Crow south and the change in brings in people (it gave me goose bumps of the good variety!), “Wordless” is about a man learning to read, and his daughter setting a path in life. Finally, “Looking for Lucy” the story which closes the book addresses separation and forgiveness with a unique and brilliant twist.

This is the second collection of short stories I’ve read by Mr. Weeks. He truly has a talent for this form. Highly recommended! 

Read the reviews and buy the collection: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Beem Weeks

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Beem Weeks: Goodreads – Website/Blog: Beem Weeks – Twitter: @BeemWeeks

 

Thanks for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books. Sally

 

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #FamilySaga Judith Barrow, #Mystery, #Suspense, Short Stories Joan Hall, #Romance #Novella Staci Troilo

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of  their top reviews.

The first book today is the riveting family saga, Sisters by Judith Barrow,

About the book

A moving study of the deep feelings – jealousy, love, anger, and revenge – that can break a family apart. … Sisters is another absorbing, emotional and thought-provoking creation from the wonderful Judith Barrow. Janet Laugharne

Two sisters torn apart by a terrible lie.In shock after an unbearable accident. Angie lets her sister Mandy take the blame, thinking she’s too young to get into trouble. But she’s wrong.

Mandy is hounded, bullied and finally sent to live with their aunt, where she changes her name to Lisa and builds a new life, never wanting to see her sister again. Angie’s guilt sends her spiralling into danger. Thirteen years later, they meet again at their mother’s funeral. Lisa starts to suspect something is wrong. Angie seems terrified of her husband, and their father is hiding something too.

What does Lisa owe to the family that betrayed her?

I knew I was in for a treat. I wasn’t disappointed… I couldn’t wait to find out what happened to Lisa and Angie… A tale with characters that linger in your mind after you close the book. Jacqueline Harrett

One of the reviews for the book

Georgia Rose VINE VOICE 5.0 out of 5 stars Gritty and emotional  Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Judith Barrow is a writer whose work I snap up the moment it is released and Sisters is no exception. I received an advance reader copy from the publishers, which does not alter my review in anyway, and I will also buy my own copy once it’s released.

The story starts in 1970 when Mandy takes her younger brother, Robert, out for a walk in his pram. Her older sister, Angie, soon joins her and wants to take over but she has an ulterior motive for her sudden interest in the baby.

I won’t give any spoilers suffice to say that something truly, truly terrible happens and that changes both girls lives forever. The rest of this story shows the impact this incident has on Mandy and Angie but also on the rest of the family and community around them.

Barrow makes you feel great emotion with her writing and I have to say the beginning of the book is tough, because of what happened but also because I really hate injustice and I felt there was a lot of that in the way Mandy was treated.

The writing is beautiful, the characterisations spot on and the details of the lives of Mandy and Angie captured so perfectly you can imagine yourself next to them it is all so real. I really enjoyed the development of each character as their lives progressed and the ending is most satisfying.

Sisters is a gritty but wonderfully told tale and I don’t hesitate in recommending it to everyone who enjoys a well-written story that draws you into the lives of its characters. 

 Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

Also by Judith Barrow

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – and: Amazon UK – Follow Judith: Goodreads – – blog: Judith Barrow – Twitter: @judithbarrow77

The next book is the highly recommended short story collection by Joan Hall…  Menagerie: A Collection of Thirteen Mystery, Suspense, and Contemporary Short Stories

About the collection

King’s. The Tower of London. Glass. What do these have in common?

Each is a famous menagerie.

While this Menagerie doesn’t focus on exotic animals, it does contain a collection of stories that explore various trials people face and how their reactions shape their worlds.

Survivors of a haunted bridge. Women who wait while their husbands fight a war. Former partners reuniting to solve a cold-case murder.

These are just three of the thirteen stories in this compendium, encompassing past and present, natural and supernatural, legend and reality. The genres and timelines are varied, but there’s a little something for everyone who enjoys reading about simpler times and small-town life.

One of the reviews for the book

tpolen 5.0 out of 5 stars Hard To Choose a Favorite  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

I absolutely adored this collection – every single story. Usually with short story collections there are at least a few that aren’t as interesting or don’t work for me. But that’s not the case here. Maybe it’s because there are thirteen stories and it was released on a Friday 13th – which has always been lucky for me because my son was born on a Friday 13th. Who knows? I’ll try to choose a few that stuck with me longer.

Ghost Bridge – The small town of Clarkston and its citizens completely charmed me. I wanted to join Kate and her dog Dakota on her porch and have a glass of wine. I wanted to sit with them and listen to the clip clop and creaking wooden wheels of the horse and buggy carrying the ghost of Dr. Noah Stoddard across the bridge by her house. The ending was perfection.

Seven Days – Stressed out author Mindy Jarvis spends a week at a friend’s cabin – where there’s no wifi or cell reception. I initially balked at that, thinking there’s no way I could do it. By the end of the story, I was envious of Mindy and wanted to trade places with her for a week. It had me reminiscing simpler times.

Summerwood – Lead guitarist in a popular band, Dylan Grant collapses on stage due to exhaustion. He travels back to his hometown to recover and make some life-changing decisions.

Lone Wolf – Cowboy Jake McLaughlin saves a wolf whose leg is caught in a trap. He has no idea the wolf will repay that kindness. I nearly cried at the end of this heartwarming tale.

This is a fabulous collection of suspense, mystery, and contemporary stories that will appeal to a variety of readers. There’s something for everyone, and I enjoyed it from beginning to end. 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the collection: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Joan Hall

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Read other reviews and follow Joan: Goodreads – Website: Joan Hall – Blog: Joan Hall – BookBub: Joan Hall – Facebook: Joan Hall Writes – Twitter: @JoanHallWrites

The final book today that I recommended earlier in the year is the romantic novella by Staci Troilo – Pour It On (Keystone Couples Novella)

About the book

Bold, complex, vibrant. The wine is, too.

Despite Romy Chandler hosting a romantic meet-and-greet at her restaurant, she’s all business. When her sommelier quits without any notice—to work for the competition, no less—she goes into mega-mogul-mode. The last thing on her mind is finding a man. She’s looking for someone who knows his way around a Bordeaux, not the boudoir.

Rick Santucci grew up in his family’s vineyard. After years of hard work, he’s turned his grandfather’s humble produce farm into a profitable winery. Once he gets their bottles into the right establishments, he’ll be able to acquire more land and move into the next phase of the company’s expansion. His mother thinks the next stage should be a wife and children, but his sights are set on different fertile grounds.

When Rick and Romy meet, they both forget all about their ambitions. The evening becomes less about revenue than romance, and they get distracted by the music and wine. She thinks he’s the man she needs, both in the restaurant and out. He finds her to be the perfect partner on the dance floor and believes she’ll be the perfect business partner, too. But a series of mix-ups could put an end to everything they’ve started—personally and professionally.

One of the reviews for the novella

Mae Clair 5.0 out of 5 stars Romantic, Fun, and Flirty! Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

One of my favorite types of stories are those built around misunderstanding, especially when it involves mistaken identity. Staci Troilo has penned a gem that dishes up—an appropriate pun for a tale centered in a restaurant—generous servings of humor and romance.

Restaurant owner, Romy Chandler, has lost her sommelier right before a huge meet-and-greet, and I do mean RIGHT before. Plus, Valentine’s Day is lingering around the corner. Rick Santucci is a vintner who needs to get his wine into the right establishments to grow his winery. Do you sense the stars aligning?

That’s all well and good, but Troilo, who has a deft touch with couples’ romance, isn’t about to let things proceed smoothly. I don’t want to give away spoilers, but let’s just say this short tale will warm your heart while tickling your funny bone. The dialogue is fast and flirty, the scenes stacking like dominos that tumble into a brilliant HEA ending.

Grab a glass of your favorite pinot or merlot, settle into a comfy seat, then Pour it On with this enchanting story that will leave you laughing on the sidelines and rooting for the characters. Troilo is a master of her craft who always delivers a polished tale. I can’t wait for the next Keystone Couples novella! 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US –  And:  Amazon UK

A small selection of books written by Staci Troilo

 Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK –Follow Staci: Goodreads– Blog: Staci Troilo WordPress – Website: Staci Troilo – Twitter– @stacitroilo –

 

 

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #Prehistoric #Adventure Jacqui Murray, #YA #Dystopian Teri Polen, – #Fantasy #Magic #Humour Chris Hall

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of  their top reviews.

The first book today is the last in the Dawn of Humanity trilogy by Jacqui Murray. I can highly recommend this book and the other two in the series. Here is one of the many other reviews for Natural Selection (Dawn of Humanity Book 3)

About the book

In this final book of the trilogy, Lucy and her tribe leave their good home to rescue captured tribemembers who are in grave danger. Since leaving her mate, Lucy created a tribe that includes an eclectic mix of species–a Canis, a Homotherium kit, and different iterations of early man. More will join and some will die but that is the nature of prehistoric life, when survival depends on a mix of man’s developing intellect and untiring will to live. Each brings unique skills to the task of saving Raza and his Group from sure death. Based on true events from 1.8 million years ago in Africa, Lucy and her band of early humans struggle against the harsh reality of a world ruled by nature, where predators stalk them and a violent new species of man threatens to destroy their world. Only by changing can they prevail. If you ever wondered how earliest man survived but couldn’t get through the academic discussions, this book is for you. Prepare to see this violent and beautiful world in a way you never imagined.

One of the reviews for the book

Pete Springer 5.0 out of 5 stars Prehistoric Fiction at its Best  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

It can be challenging for any reader who joins the last part of a trilogy after not reading the series’ first two books, such as I did. Despite that, I quickly became invested in Natural Selection. One aspect that made this considerably easier was that Murray listed all the characters in the story from the three main tribes before her book began. Prehistoric people also had to deal with many animals from this era, and it was beneficial that the author listed them, followed by a brief description. I referred to these lists several times while reading Murray’s epic tale.

Having read one of Murray’s other books previously, I knew she liked strong female protagonists. This novel follows the same style with Lucy, the group’s leader and healer. Since modern medicine didn’t exist, she utilized plants and herbs to treat many ailments that beset her people. Lucy’s tribe included an interesting array of characters and animals, including Ump, a lone Canis searching for a particular mate. One of the common themes throughout is that tribe members worked together and learned to use each other’s strengths to survive in a world that included how to remain safe from violent predator attacks and a new species of man. One fact I found particularly fascinating was that those with poor eyesight learned to rely on other senses, such as smelling and hearing, to guide them.

Another eye-opening revelation was how adaptable prehistoric people had to become as they continually faced dangers and challenges. Premature death was a part of their lives; sometimes, people from other tribes joined them who got separated or lost their families through attrition. Xha was a Homo Erectus warrior from another tribe that became part of Lucy’s group. Though he quickly won over many others in their tribe, Lucy wasn’t as willing to trust him initially.

How prehistoric people learned to survive by creating tools and weapons like spears demonstrated their intelligence. Though not possessing what we would describe as language, they communicated through sounds, gestures, body movements, and facial expressions. I have a much greater understanding and appreciation for prehistoric people after reading Natural Selection. I commend Murray for her extensive research and precise storytelling abilities. 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US And: Amazon UK

A selection of books by Jacqui Murray

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Jacqui: goodreads – Blog: Worddreams – Twitter: @WordDreams

Delighted to share my review for the dystopian thriller by Teri Polen, The Insurgent (The Colony Series Book 2)

About the book

If a megalomaniac threatened your family, would you give up your freedom for them? Would you give up your soul?

Asher Solomon is faced with that choice. And makes the ultimate sacrifice.

Exactly as Director Silas Reeves expected him to.

Unable to live as the Colony’s premier assassin, Ash retreats to a corner of his mind, ceding control of his body to the alter-ego he was engineered to be—Subject A36. As he’s unleashed to battle the Insurgents, the only family he ever knew, the tide of war shifts in Silas’s favor.

Combined with his expansion into new territories, the director is poised to take over the world.

But the Insurgents don’t give up easily. Not on their cause, and not on their people. With the help of a few double agents deep in the Colony, they stand a fighting chance at ending Silas’s reign.

In order to shut down the program, they face almost insurmountable odds. And their most dangerous foe—their former champion turned killing machine, A36.

One of the reviews for the book

Mae Clair 5.0 out of 5 stars Smart science-fiction with heart  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel to Subject A36, though this book stands just fine on its own. Polen provides a great refresher for previous readers and enough back story so new readers won’t feel lost.

At the center of the plot, Asher must battle his alter ego, Subject A36–bred to be the perfect killing machine for the Colony, a nefarious organization that engages in “gene” harvesting. With plenty of high-octane action, the story moves along at a good clip, but also places emphasis on character interaction and development.

I was surprised by several twists and turns, and found myself changing opinion of more than one pivotal character. Action scenes explode off the pages and the intrigue had me biting my nails. If you enjoy a good tale with polished writing and characters who worm under your skin, you’ll find The Insurgent smart science-fiction with heart! 

Read the reviews and buy the book : Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Teri Polen

Read the reviews and buy the books : Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Teri: Goodreads – website: Teri Polen – Twitter: @Tpolen6

The final book today that I would like to showcase is the fantasy and magical Song of the Sea Goddess by Chris Hall.

About the book

Sam thinks his problems are over when finds his fishing bucket filled with gold coins. There’s a problem though. The gold burns the fingers of anyone who touches it. His unlikely find coincides with the appearance of a mythical sea creature on the headland overlooking the town and the resumption of quarrying up in the mountains that is poisoning the streams and contaminating the town’s water supply.Determined to keep his coins hidden, Sam goes up-river to bury them. There he encounters a beguiling young woman called Shasa, who lives by one of the tainted springs and just happens to have a fish’s tail.

As the blasting continues, the discovery of a series of recently-made drawings in the cave under the headland, reveals a terrifying prophesy that will result in the earth spilling apart.

Fearing for Shasa’s safety, Sam sets out find her again, only to meet the danger head on, as nature takes its revenge for the damage being wrought by humankind.Will Sam and Shasa survive?

Set in a fictional location on the West Coast of South Africa, this moving story blends the charm of small town life with the threat of ecological disaster at the hands of a powerful force beyond human understanding.

One of the reviews for Song of the Sea Goddess

Elizabeth Gauffreau 5.0 out of 5 stars An Enjoyable Magical Realism Novel  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

An ordinary fisherman minding his own business tending to his nets from his little boat is accosted by two octopuses. They not only talk to him in the most impertinent fashion but knock him out cold and leave his fishing bucket full of gold coins.

With an opening like that, how could I resist diving headfirst into Chris Hall’s Song of the Sea Goddess?

I hadn’t read a magical realism novel in years. Song of the Sea Goddess immediately reminded me just how delightful they can be, with quirky characters in an everyday realistic setting encountering any manner of magical elements–from talking octopuses to vengeful selkies–as a simple matter of course.

In this instance, the setting is a small South African village, which Hall renders vividly through descriptions of the village itself and the landscape beyond it, as well as specific sensory details of everyday life.

In addition to creating a believable realistic setting, an author needs to have a deft hand with characterization and plotting–as well a strong narrative voice–to pull off magical realism. Hall achieves this balance admirably.

There are quirky minor characters aplenty to provide local color, including Albertina, who shows up in the village one day in search of a place to land. She finds it with two elderly sisters referred to as “the aunties.” The aunties reminded me of a pair of elderly sisters from my home town. They were always spoken of as a unit.

Albertina provides a delightful lietmotif with her second-best wig, which she always dons upon leaving the house. I kept expecting to learn why the wig was only second-best, what her best wig was, and how momentous the occasion needed to be for her to don her best wig. By the end of the book, Albertina was still relying on that second-best wig, and I concluded that the author was having a bit of fun with me. I didn’t mind at all!

In addition to solving the mystery of the gold coins, the plot revolves around the environmental threat posed by a quarry operation just outside the village. This raises the stakes of the novel in a way I greatly appreciated. It is not at all heavy-handed or polemical.

In the end, I found myself reacting to the magical realism in Song of the Sea Goddess in a way I never had before. I found it oddly comforting. Perhaps hope for the future, a need to believe in magic? I am now nearly finished reading the sequel, Spirit of the Shell Man, which follows the same characters. Need I say more? 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – 

Also by Chris Hall

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US –  and: Amazon UK – Follow Chris: Goodreads –  Facebook: Chris Hall Author – Twitter: @ChrissyH_07

 

Thank you for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books.. Sally

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #WWII #Family Joy Neal Kidney, #Ireland #Contemporary #Recipes Mary Crowley, #Cancer #Memoir Miriam Hurdle

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of  their top reviews.

The first book today that I can highly recommend is the poignant family story Leora’s Letters by Joy Neal Kidney.

About the book

The day the second atomic bomb was dropped, Clabe and Leora Wilson’s postman brought a telegram to their acreage near Perry, Iowa. One son was already in the U.S. Navy before Pearl Harbor had been attacked. Four more sons worked with their father, tenant farmers near Minburn until, one by one, all five sons were serving their country in the military. The oldest son re-enlisted in the Navy. The younger three became U.S. Army Air Force pilots.

As the family optimist, Leora wrote hundreds of letters, among all her regular chores, dispensing news and keeping up the morale of the whole family, which included the brothers’ two sisters. Her fondest wishes were to have a home of her own and family nearby. Leora’s Letters is the compelling true account of a woman whose most tender hopes were disrupted by great losses. Yet she lived out four more decades with hope and resilience.

“Joy lets us see her grandmother’s personal family correspondence through letters. It is heart-tugging. Be ready to be moved by this true story.” –Van Harden, WHO-Radio Personality

Joy Neal Kidney, the oldest granddaughter of the book’s heroine, is the keeper of family stories, letters, photos, combat records, casualty reports, and telegrams. Active on her own website, she is also a writer and local historian. Married to a Vietnam Air Force veteran, Joy lives in central Iowa. Her nonfiction has been published in The Des Moines Register, other media, and broadcast over “Our American Stories.” She’s a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, and her essays have been collected by the Iowa Women’s Archives at the University of Iowa.

One of the reviews for the book

D. Baumgardner5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful, Inspirational, Heartbreaking  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

I read the entire series and it was wonderfully written. The love and devotion this family showed each other was unlike anything you might see today. Adversity made them that much stronger, together. I don’t know how Leora had the strength to survive.

My Grandparents were from the same generation. They had 10 children (2 boys and 8 girls), and were farmers just like Clabe and Leora. Their boys and sons in law went to WWII and were spread out all over the world. They were fortunate that all of the men in our family came home after the war, but families like the Wilson’s were devastated and it just doesn’t seem fair. Their sons were so devoted to them and Leora had live another lifetime (40+ years) without her husband and 3 sons. I don’t know how she managed to to go on and yet I’m so thankful she kept every single letter so we could have this very raw and beautiful and emotional experience. Thank you for telling your story and thank you for your family’s sacrifice. 

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Joy Neal Kidney

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – More reviews: Goodreads – Website: Joy Neal Kidney – Facebook: Joy Neal Kidney Author – Twitter: @JoyNealKidney – Instagram: Joy Neal Kidney

The next book is by Mary Crowley, an author I enjoy reading, and her book Recipes and Tales from the Kitchen of Oceanic Temptations: A Taste of the Wild Atlantic Way

About the book

Meet the women of Oceanic Temptations and try their recipes…..

Oceanic Temptations Café is featured in the novel, A Sweet Smell of Strawberries.

Kilmer Cove sits on the beautiful coastline of Donegal where the Connolly family has strived to keep their beloved father’s legacy alive by adapting their farmland and extending their businesses, one of which is Oceanic Temptations.

Ocean Temptations started out as a small farm shop run by Sarah Connolly and her sister-in-law Lily selling fresh produce from the farm and home baking. The two women soon discovered the need to expand their business and take on more staff, due to its idyllic spot along The Wild Atlantic Way. Oceanic Temptations Café was built to accommodate passing coaches of tourists on their way to Fanad Head Lighthouse. It also became a place for locals from the seaside town of Kilmer Cove to meet and socialise.

This book tells the stories of the four women who work together in Oceanic Temptations. Lily, Olive, Lena, and Sarah along with their specialty deserts, some prose, and a selection of recipes.

A Taste of the Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s first defined touring route, stretching along the Atlantic coast from Donegal to West Cork. It was a yearly trip to Donegal where my son Steven competed in the Errigal Youth Tour in 2016, 2017 and 2018, which inspired the setting for A Sweet Smell of Strawberries, having fallen in love with the beautiful coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way.

One of the reviews for the book on Goodreads

Eleanor Murphy Five Stars

I thoroughly enjoyed the short stories in this book, and it was lovely to be brought back to Kilmer Cove on the Wild Atlantic Way. The four women working in Oceanic Temptations have formed a bond as friends and not just work colleagues, which is special. Their stories intertwine and are creatively written. It is a clever spin-off from the Author’s novel, A Sweet Smell of Strawberries, and includes delicious recipes to try, which I have. The pastry in the apple pie is the lightest tastiest shortcrust pastry I have ever tried. I have also indulged in Sarah’s Strawberry Cheesecake, another delicious recipe. Easy to make, as the instructions are easy to follow with beautiful pictures

Head over to buy the book: Amazon UK –  And: Amazon US

Also by Mary Crowley

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon UK – And on : Amazon US – Follow Mary : Goodreads – Blog/Website: Mary Crowley WordPress – Twitter: @marycrowleym

And the final book today is by Miriam Hurdle… and her inspiring memoir The Winding Road: A Journey of Survival.

About the book

In the summer of 2008, Miriam Hurdle was diagnosed with melanoma-an aggressive and invasive cancer in her internal organs. The survival rate before 2008 was low. Besides risking harsh treatments for a slim chance of survival, Miriam had hoops to jump through. By the time she received treatment at the beginning of 2009, her cancer had progressed from stage II to stage IV. It was a rough and uphill winding road. But alongside her was support and encouragement. Accompanied by the love of her family and community, this is Miriam’s journey of faith and miracle. It is a heartwarming story of resilience, courage, and the will to live.

One of the reviews for the book

Luanne Castle 5.0 out of 5 stars Memoir of rare cancer treatment–couldn’t put it down  Reviewed in the United States

What happens when you’re given a diagnosis of a very rare and fatal cancer, but there is a horrible experimental treatment being offered to you? In The Winding Road, we learn what Miriam Hurdle decided–to undergo the grueling chemo and radiation schedule–and how she copies with it. She set her daughter’s still unfulfilled life mileposts of marriages and children as a goal–she wanted to see her daughter married and to meet her future grandchildren.

The reader knows from the beginning of the story that Miriam will overcome the cancer because she has written her memoir about it. But life is in the details, and this book provides many. I loved getting the inside information on how her illness affected her job, as well as seeing the loving support she got from friends and fellow church members. Because I lived for over twenty years in the same general geographic location, I could picture all the hospitals and other places she talks about. But that knowledge isn’t necessary because we all know what hospitals and medical care can be like.

When a doctor ignores a referral for three weeks when Miriam has no time to lose, it is so easy to imagine her visiting the office, being completely ignored by the fools at the counter, and sitting there in the waiting room until someone takes pity on her after hours and tries to help her. This is a short book, and you will want to read to the finish in one or two sittings.

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Miriam Hurdle

Read the reviews and buy the books:Amazon US – And:Amazon UK – – Goodreads: Miriam Hurdle – Blog: The Showers of Blessings – Twitter: @mhurdle112

 

Thank you for dropping by today and I hope you will be leaving with some books.. Sally.

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #Memoir D.G. Kaye, #Mystery #Thriller Joy York, #Romance #Montana Linda Bradley

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of  their top reviews.

The first book today is by D.G. Kaye…. Debby Gies. and her memoir which I thoroughly enjoyed – Fifteen First Times: Beginnings: A Collection of Indelible Firsts

About the memoir

This book is a collection of stories about some of Kaye’s first-time experiences with life’s most natural events. Told through the intimate conversational writing we’ve come to know from this author, poignant personal steppingstones to learning moments are revealed. She encompasses the heart of each matter with sincerity and sprinkled inflections of humor.

From first kiss to first car to walking in the desert with four-inch heels, Kaye’s short coming-of-age stories take us through her awakenings and important moments of growth, often without warning. Some good and some not, life lessons are learned through trial and error, winging it and navigating by the seat of her pants.

One of the reviews for the book

Balroop Singh 5.0 out of 5 stars Touches upon various emotions.  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

‘Fifteen First Times’ is a collection of interesting anecdotes from the teenage years of D.G.Kaye. From crazy diets that she tried to follow to the love of shoes and her first kiss, all find a mention in a witty style, as Bobby “planted a big wet kiss… and it was no regular kiss…yuck!” I smiled at the reaction of a nine year old girl who obviously knew nothing about it.

The candor of Kaye is admirable! She shares her stressful moments of becoming a woman in a brilliant manner, trying to figure out what could have caused “the mini bloodbath” between her legs but couldn’t dare to approach her mother, as she was far from “an average mamma” who never cared to explain that there was no need to feel embarrassed about this natural phenomenon.

Kaye’s resilience and independent spirit shines through her words. She grew up into a fine woman despite her dysfunctional family and heartbreaks. Her love for her father and their bonding exemplifies how a child learns to understand life. The book touches upon various emotions and ends with a loving tribute to her late husband. I finished reading it in one sitting and loved the way Kaye shared the stories of her growing up. 

Read the reviews and pick up a copy at your local Amazon: Fifteen First Times Universal Link 

Also by D.G. Kaye

Read all the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – and: Amazon UK – follow Debby: Goodreads – Blog: D.G. Kaye Writer – About me: D.G. Kaye – Twitter: @pokercubster – Linkedin: D.G. Kaye – Facebook: D.G. Kaye – Instagram: D.G. Kaye – Pinterest: D.G. Kaye

Another recommended book for you I reviewed at the end of 2022 the mystery and thriller . Genuine Deceit by Joy York.

About the book

Abandonment. Suicide. Murder. When a young woman finds herself unknowingly accountable for the past sins of her family, she must unravel their secrets and lies to stay alive.

When her grandmother is brutally murdered in her own home, Reagan Asher leaves her corporate job and rushes to her sleepy hometown in Ohio. She has barely entered the house before a second break-in attempt is made, prompting police to believe it’s not just a random burglary. Reagan’s lifelong friend Mattie asks Aiden Rannell, her brother-in-law and an ex-Navy Seal, to lend support and protection to Reagan as she navigates the investigation.

​Aiden suggests a ring that Reagan’s grandmother owned may be more valuable than anyone believes. Considering her frugal life growing up, Reagan dismisses the idea, showing Aiden an old pink box filled with similar colorful, ornate costume jewelry she and her friends played with as children. When they find a decades-sealed container with shocking contents supporting Aiden’s concerns, Reagan begs him to help her find the origin and if it is related to her Nana’s death.

​With the answers seemingly rooted in Reagan’s family’s past, they delve into her tragic childhood as the danger escalates. With each new revelation of betrayal and deception, Reagan begins to doubt everything she ever knew about her life.

One of the reviews for the book

Lizzy 5.0 out of 5 stars QUITE THE TWISTY STORY  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

This was an amazing story that just kept going—giving the reader more and more to ponder.

When Reagan Asher’s grandmother is murdered in her modest home in Ohio, she is wholly unprepared for what follows the tragic event. Everything she thought she knew about her life, her identity, her family, and everything else, unravels before her eyes. Simultaneously, she is questioning her current relationship with Tyler, her boyfriend back in Chicago, as her best friend’s brother-in-law, Aiden, appears on the scene and takes center stage in her heart. But how can she judge anything in the state that she’s in? Who can she trust?

As soon as one question is answered, another is asked. Then another and another. It’s like being in a maze of fun-house mirrors where nothing is what it appears to be. There is threat after threat and mystery after mystery. Will it ever resolve?

Joy York has skillfully plotted a story of deceit that spans the years and is complex and action-packed from beginning to end. I not only enjoyed the suspense aspect of this novel, but Reagan’s evolution as a young woman struck a chord with me. Ms. York did an excellent job of zeroing in on the complexities of human nature and bringing to life relatable, flawed characters that readers can identify with. A thoroughly enjoyable novel. 

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US –  And: Amazon UK

Also by Joy York

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Joy: Goodreads – Website: Joy York –  Facebook: Joy York Author – Twitter: @JoyYorkAuthor

And the final book today is  for a lovely romance set in Mondana by Linda Bradley – Unbranded (Montana Bred Series 1)

About the book

Threatened by the unexpected, a devoted rancher refuses to compromise her ambition or her legacy.

CHLOE MCINTYRE is determined to become the co-CEO of her grandfather’s Montana ranch, but her father isn’t ready to become partners—yet.

Jaded memories of her parents’ shotgun wedding gone wrong cloud her attraction for best friend Matt Cooper when she discovers she’s pregnant—with his baby. Chloe believes raising a child isn’t in her genes, and she doesn’t expect a marriage proposal. She keeps her condition a secret to hold her position on the ranch and continue what she does best: wrangling strays and working alongside hired hands.

After her father announces his first choice for co-CEO, a wild ride jeopardizes the pregnancy, and Chloe questions life choices. Will the cowgirl grit she has inherited from her grandmother be enough to rein in her disappointment, or will she walk away from everything that could flourish into love?

My review for the book 7th January 2023

It was great to meet up again with Maggie Mcintyre and her family whose story was shared in the Maggie’s Way and other Montana Bound Series books.

Chloe has inherited the grit and love of Montana and cattle ranching from her grandparents and has been lovingly nurtured by her father and step-mother Maggie. The baggage that Chloe is carrying around based on her father’s failed marriage and her absent mother’s lack of presence in her life, has made her form strong opinions about relationships. Not just romantic but with the cowboys she works with. She is ambitious and keen to carve out a future for herself her on the family ranch, and sometimes that is at odds with her father’s wishes but also her safety and that of her unborn child.

She is loved, and the author has created a wonderful support system around this feisty and stubborn young woman as she navigates the intricate interactions with the other main characters in the story. As the plot develops, Chloe learns much about herself and where the future might lie.

The author paints a detailed and engaging world on a busy cattle ranch and takes us along for the ride. All the characters are interesting and play their part in the evolving story, keeping the reader engaged and turning the pages. The romance is subtle and heartwarming and I can recommend to readers who enjoy a gentle but compelling story.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Also by Linda Bradley

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And : Amazon UK – Follow Linda :Goodreads – website: Linda Bradley Author – Twitter: @LBradleyAuthor

 

Thanks very much for dropping in today and I hope you are leaving with some books.. Sally.

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 – #Travel #France #Dogs Jacqueline Lambert, #Memoirs #Poems John Cornelius Rogers and Sue Bavey, #Verse #Prose #Memoir Lauren Scott

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months and sharing either my review or one of their other top reviews.

The first book is the  highly entertaining and fascinating guide to caravanning and travelling through France… with four very individual pups… Year 1 – Fur Babies in France: From Wage Slaves to Living the Dream (Adventure Caravanning with Dogs) by Jacqueline Lambert.

About the book

“Laugh out loud funny & a great travel guide.” *

Have you ever thought of giving up work and heading off into the sunset with surf boards on your roof? If you answer ‘Yes’ – or you just like dogs, caravans or travel, this book is for you.

Year 1 – Fur Babies in France follows the true story of a couple who accidentally bought a caravan – and then decided to rent out the house, sell most of their possessions and tour Europe full-time with their four dogs, Cavapoos Kai, Rosie, Ruby and Lani.

It was a steep learning curve, involving many breakages and a near-death experience. Discover whether, with the application of humour, they find peace and tranquillity on the back roads of France – with a bit of windsurfing thrown in!

One of the over 300 reviews for the book

Lindylou 5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant Read  Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Brilliant Read

What a wonderful read. Having lost their jobs and not being able to work due to illness Jackie and Mark bit the bullet and accidentally bought a caravan. This act was closely followed by becoming parents to four adorable Cava poos Kai, Rosie, Ruby and Lani.

They decide to rent out their property and become full time caravanners and once Jackie has been on her towing course they sent out on their maiden trip to France. Oh what fun they had learning the intrigues of caravanning, the ups and downs, the joys and the troubles. The near misses on tricky roads along with the hairpin bends where it looks nigh on impossible to manoeuvre their long load. Trusty Blue does not let them down and getting them admirably through most of these situations.

They travel to and visit some wonderful places all of which are described in eloquent detail, thank you for the ride. Being a talented writer Jackie pulls you into the story and you are there with them, yes even when the pups decide to roll in fox poo, lol.

It brought back wonderful memories for me of the trials, tribulations but most of all fun I used to have caravanning with 3 small children under the age of 6. Thank you Jackie for the trip. 

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

Other books in the series by Jacqueline Lambert

Read the reviews and buy the books: author.to/JLambert – Follow Jacqueline: Goodreads – Blog: Worldwide Walkies – Facebook: Jacqueline Lambert Author – Twitter: @JLambertAuthor

The next book is the biography by Sue. Bavey – a collection of stories, both fact and fiction and poetry written by her father – Daydreams and Narcoleptic Nightmares: Memoirs and Poems by John Cornelius Rogers.

About the book

Imaginary snakes, Ouija board experiments, World War II and Nursing Home Sex Scandals.

John Cornelius Rogers, a narcoleptic war veteran, experienced emotions so strong they made him collapse. You would, too, if you discovered sex scandals in nursing homes, saw snakes come out of the wall while you were eating dinner, and uncovered a murder using a makeshift ouija board. Join John in the journey through his prose and poetry, silly and sad…

15% of the profits from sales of this book will be donated to the charity Narcolepsy UK.

“So enjoyed it including the poetry. A 5* from me.” – Judith Benson

“Rogers writes in a very engaging manner, witty, thoughtful and taut. I laughed out loud in several places, very keen eye for the absurd!” – Sally Beety

One of the reviews for the book

Georgia Rose VINE VOICE 4.0 out of 5 stars A prose and poetry memoir  Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧

The growing industry of independent publishing and the opportunities now available to those who want to get their words out into the world may have some issues in certain areas with regard to quality, but it has also made it possible for families to put together precious keepsakes in the form of the memoirs of loved ones. Daydreams and Narcoleptic Nightmares is one such book.

In this case S Bavey has taken on the task of producing a collection of her late father’s memoirs, prose and poetry and covers the fact that her father, John Cornelius Rogers, suffered from narcolepsy and cataplexy as well as the side effects from the drugs taken for those conditions.

I enjoyed reading this book and liked the way John Rogers wrote, a dry sense of humour throughout. Part I covers his early years and school days along with his life through his RAF days and on into employment and married life. Holidays and hobbies are also covered plus miscellaneous items including a chapter on narcolepsy and cataplexy. Part II contains a collection of poetry. I think my favourite parts were the tales about his life as he grew up.

There are some lovely photos in this book, and it’s been put together really well so I think anyone who enjoys memoir would get a lot from reading this one. 

Head over to buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

Also by S. Bavey and anthologies she has contributed to.

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – More reviews: Goodreads – Website: Sue Bavey WordPress – Facebook: Sue Bavey – Twitter: @SueBavey

The final book today is  the lovely collection by Lauren Scott – More than Coffee: Memories in Verse and Prose

About the book

From the early woes of childhood and teen years, this collection of stories and poems paints a picture of young dreams and fears. But as adulthood sets in, these dreams and fears change. More than Coffee touches on love and loss, nature and endurance, marriage and parenting. In these memories, humor diffuses fear and taking risks proves to be a powerful method in boosting self-confidence. Through it all, whether in the wilderness near a sparkling lake or in the comfort of home, there’s nothing like a good cup of coffee. A poignant and reflective collection of verse and prose that is best enjoyed sipping your favorite coffee roast.

One of the reviews for the collection

Stephanie Eder 5.0 out of 5 stars There’s something to take away from each page! Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

More than Coffee: Memories in Verse and Prose is a heartwarming collection of poetry and short stories about love, loss, nature, parenting, and so much more, all with the best friend of coffee close by. My name is Stephanie, and I am Lauren’s daughter. While I have heard these stories told before, written or expressed verbally, and have helped with the editing process along the way, reading these stories and poems hit me in a different way. I was sitting on my couch in the apartment I share with my husband, reading my mom’s newest book, crying hysterically. Every page I turned, re-reading and even re-living through these moments, I cried. I cried for my mom losing both her parents, but mostly on the short story ‘Ascent;’ I cried on the short story titled ‘1989,’ about my parents meeting even though I’ve heard it told many times before.

Lastly, I cried while reading ‘The Way It Was,’ about my mom’s choir and solo singing opportunities encouraged by her teacher, that catapulted me, her daughter, in sharing that same passion for singing and love for Barbra Streisand. There is much more but those are a few examples that capture the raw emotions, authenticity and vulnerability she shares with the reader – aspects to life everyone can relate to. My mom has published two solely poetry books prior, but the amalgamation of the short stories and poems is a fine-tuned balance, one she has hit her mark on. I couldn’t be any prouder! Do her the honor of purchasing and reading this book with a mug of coffee or your preferred drink of choice; you surely won’t be disappointed! 

 Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – More reviews: Goodreads

Also by Lauren Scott

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Website/Blog: Baydreamer – Facebook: Lauren Scott Author

 

Thank you for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books.. Sally.

Smorgasbord Book Promotions – Summer Book Fair 2023 -#Paranormal #Romance Jan Sikes, #Western #Paranormal Sandra Cox, #Fantasy D.Wallace Peach

This year in the second part of the Summer Book Fair, I will be sharing my recommended books from the last 12 months with either my own review of one of their other top reviews.

The first book today is another that I can highly recommend by Jan Sikes –  Saddled Hearts (The White Rune Series Book 3) 

About the book

Colt Layne owns the Layne Horse Sanctuary. He lives an idyllic life, between caring for the animals and playing music with his band. That is until a stranger appears with unreasonable demands. When someone murders the man, Colt is arrested. He’s been framed, but by whom and why?

He needs to talk with his deceased grandfather. But that’s impossible. Or is it?

Sage Coventry is gifted with the ability to communicate with the deceased. Skeptical but desperate, when Colt consults with her, he gets more than messages from beyond the grave as she breezes into his heart with sweet patchouli fragrance and tempting lips he longs to kiss.

The race against time to clear his name and save the ranch launches them on a mission that brings shocking revelations.

One of the reviews for the book

Mae Clair 5.0 out of 5 stars An engaging romantic mystery  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

Saddled Hearts wraps up Jan Sikes White Rune series in spectacular fashion. Colt Layne, who had a small role in the previous novel, takes center stage along with Sage Coventry, a young widow who can communicate with the dead. When a stranger shows up on Colt’s ranch claiming to have won it in a card game from Colt’s uncle years ago, Colt contacts Sage to try to reach his uncle beyond the Veil.

Although the novel has a supernatural thread woven throughout, it’s the mystery in the physical world I found most compelling. Colt is framed for murder, then freed on bail, but his troubles don’t end there. The ranch—which he uses to run a horse sanctuary—is plagued by a series of unexplained mishaps and accidents. If that’s not enough, his estranged father, an alcoholic who deserted Colt when he was a boy, shows up claiming to be a changed man thanks to his new wife.

From romance to family dynamics, friendships to rivalries, old grudges and buried secrets, there are a plethora of threads twined throughout this engaging novel. I loved the strength of the character relationships, as well as the care and attention the author put into showing the daily operation of a horse sanctuary. I was enchanted with Ghost, an abused horse who arrives part way through the story and was on pins and needles until that thread resolved itself. The overall arc of who framed Colt played out in a manner I did not suspect. A wonderful blend of romance, mystery, danger, and even music, Saddled Hearts is the perfect ending to a wonderful series. Highly recommended! 

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

A small selection of other books by Jan Sikes

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And : Amazon UK – Website: Jan Sikes – Goodreads: Jan on Goodreads – Twitter: @rijanjks  

The second book today is another highly recommended author, Sandra Cox… and her western romance Geller’s Find

About the book

It’s summer break and Dr. Luke Geller, history prof and part-time archeologist is in Nevada looking for potsherds. What he discovers is an antique rifle and a portal in time.
Touching an ancient piece of Chiastolite crystal, the earth rumbles, the skies darken and the ground opens. He’s hurled straight to the core of the earth then shot back up and spewed out.

When he stumbles to his feet, he finds himself where he began. Same, yet different. There are no winding roads. No parking lots. No cars. No town with bright lights in the distance. Only Lily Winter Tremaine, an angry young woman pointing a gun at him, demanding he hand over her rifle.

All thoughts of primitive pottery disappear as Luke finds himself fighting alongside three young women trying to hold onto their ranch against a dangerous scoundrel who intends to have the ranch by whatever means possible. Then there’s the little fact that Luke’s mightily attracted to the young woman he’s working for. A woman old enough to be his great-great granny. And Miss Lily Winter Tremaine does not figure into any of tenured professor Luke Geller’s lesson plans.

One of the top reviews for the book

D.L. Finn 5.0 out of 5 stars A fantastic blend of time-traveling, a brewing romance, and the old west.  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 o

Luke Geller is a professor and part-time archeologist. While out hunting potshards, he comes across an old gun and a strange crystal. This find takes him to the same place, but not at the same time. The gun owner, Lily, helps him out and takes him back to her ranch. I love the immediate connection between these two, even though Luke realizes he must leave and return to his life.

There are so many great characters in this story that I even rooted for a character I didn’t even trust. The three women running the ranch were terrific, especially Saffron. Her humor always made me smile, including when she suggested a horse for Luke to ride. The setting brought Nevada to life during the gold rush, including a budding town. The ranch named No Gold has other treasures, including fruit and cattle. Ms. Cox has created another place I’d love to live in, but maybe with a few more present-day amenities.

I was so drawn into the story that I felt the peaceful pleasure of riding a horse out on the ranch and enjoying nature’s beauty. A fantastic blend of time-traveling, a brewing romance, and the old west. A story that I can highly recommend! 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

A selection of other books by Sandra Cox

Read the reviews and buy the books : Amazon UK –And: Amazon US- follow Sandra Cox: Goodreads – Blog: Sandra Cox Blogspot – Twitter:@Sandra_Cox

And the final author today that I can highly recommend is D.Wallace Peach and the incredible award winning fantasy The Necromancer’s Daughter.

About the book

2023 Winner of the Next Generation Indie Book Award for Fantasy.

A healer with the talent to unravel death. A stillborn child brought to life. A father lusting for vengeance. And a son torn between justice, faith, and love. Caught in a chase spanning kingdoms, each must decide the nature of good and evil, the lengths they will go to survive, and what they are willing to lose.

A healer and dabbler in the dark arts of life and death, Barus is as gnarled as an ancient tree. Forgotten in the chaos of the dying queen’s chamber, he spirits away her stillborn infant and in a hovel at the meadow’s edge, breathes life into the wisp of a child. He names her Aster for the lea’s white flowers. Raised as his daughter, she, too, learns to heal death.

Denied a living heir, the widowed king spies from a distance. But he heeds the claims of the fiery Vicar of the Red Order—in the eyes of the Blessed One, Aster is an abomination, and to embrace the evil of resurrection will doom his rule.

As the king’s life nears its end, he defies the vicar’s warning and summons the necromancer’s daughter. For his boldness, he falls to an assassin’s blade. Armed with righteousness and iron-clad conviction, the Order’s brothers ride into the leas to cleanse the land of evil.

To save her father’s life, Aster leads them beyond Verdane’s wall into the Forest of Silvern Cats, a wilderness of dragons and barbarian tribes. Unprepared for a world rife with danger and unchecked power, a world divided by those who practice magic and those who hunt them, she must choose whether to trust the one man offering her aid, the one man most likely to betray her—her enemy’s son.

~*~

From best-selling fantasy author D. Wallace Peach comes a retelling of the legend of Kwan-yin, the Chinese Goddess of Mercy. Set in a winter world of dragons, intrigue, and magic, The Necromancer’s Daughter is a story about duty, defiance, cruelty, and sacrifice— an epic tale of compassion and deep abiding love where good and evil aren’t what they seem.

One of the top reviews for the book

Elizabeth Gauffreau 5.0 out of 5 stars A Highly Engaging and Beautifully Written Fantasy Novel!  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

As a few other reviewers of The Necromancer’s Daughter have noted, I don’t usually read fantasy. However, I was so intrigued by the premise, I couldn’t resist: a humble, crippled necromancer named Barus brings Aster, a stillborn princess, back to life and raises her as her own–until she is called to fulfill her royal destiny.

I’m happy to say, I was well-rewarded for my time investment in Barus and Aster’s story. To begin with, the writing is superb: vivid, polished, and fluid, with enough detail to immerse the reader in the fantasy world without belabored world-building. In addition to the writing, the masterful characterization kept me reading. From the point-of-view characters to the bit players to the “sword carriers,” these are living, breathing people who inhabit the fantasy world the author has created.

The novel is told from three points of view: that of Barus, Aster, and Joreh, a young man who turns out to be the son of Aster’s sworn enemy. The use of multiple points of view provides different perspectives on the events of the story–a variation on the hero’s journey–thereby ensuring reader identification with each character, as well as building narrative tension. The use of multiple point-of-view characters also adds depth and complexity to the novel’s major themes of good versus evil, the lust for power, personal autonomy versus destiny, and the nature of life and death.

The novel’s main timeline is in the winter, and a particularly brutal winter it is. Wind-blown snow isn’t mere window-dressing, however. The author skillfully uses the frozen landscape to reinforce Aster’s “otherness” and fragility as someone who has been raised from the dead. Moreover, blizzard conditions and frigid temperatures pose additional challenges to overcome, over which neither she nor her antagonists have any control.

Dragons figure prominently in The Necromancer’s Daughter, which came as no surprise. However, the way they were portrayed did surprise me. The descriptions of what the dragons looked like, what they sounded like, and how they behaved were so realistic, not only did I believe they existed, they became one of my favorite elements of the novel.

I was also surprised by the details of necromancy practiced by Barus and then by Aster. The effect of necromancy on the necromancer and the light in which it was portrayed played against the trope of the obsessive mad scientist defying God to raise the dead. Their practice of necromancy was presented in an altruistic light–and the necromancer paid a physical price. I greatly appreciated the way necromancy was presented in all its complexity. As to be expected, Aster’s enemies believe it is the work of the devil, while Barus and Aster view it as a form of healing, in the way that medical treatment is a form of healing: interference with a natural process of a body that has been injured or become seriously ill. The question of where the line is between life and death and how far medical science should go to keep someone from crossing that line permanently is very much with us today.

I can confidently recommend The Necromancer’s Daughter to readers who love fantasy and to readers who appreciate character-driven, thought-provoking fiction. Kudos to D. Wallace Peach for this achievement! 

Head over to read the reviews and buy the book : Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

A selection of other books by D.Wallace Peach

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And : Amazon UK – Follow Diana: Goodreads – blog: Myths of the Mirror – Twitter: @Dwallacepeach

 

Thank you for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books… Sally.