Tag Archives: Christmas fiction

Top 10 Tuesday — Travel Books

20 May

Happy Tuesday! Today’s TTT prompt is books featuring travel. Having done that a few times before, I have changed the topic up a bit and am listing books I have read for my upcoming trip to Maine. I love to read novels that are set in travel destinations. Do you ever do that? My list consists of the books I have read in the past couple of months plus some others I have read over the years. There’s a variety of genres too. I hope you find one to inspire you!

For more travel books, please visit That Artsy Reader Girl.

Top Books Set in Maine

The Blackout Book Club by Amy Lynn Green

A Christmas by The Sea by Melody Carlson

Clammed Up By Barbara Ross

The Frozen River by Ariel Lawson

Haven Point by Virginia Hume

The Inn at Ocean’s Edge by Colleen Coble

Memory Lane by Becky Wade

On A Summer Tide by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Saving Mrs. Roosevelt by Candice Sue Patterson

The Spy Coast by Tess Gerritsen

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Mini-Book Review — Christmas at The Jekyll Island Club

22 Jan

It’s never too late — or too early — to read a Christmas book. I enjoyed reading Christmas at The Jekyll Island Club, part of the Romance at The Gilded Ages Resorts series, following a visit to the island in mid-December. The historic district and the clubhouse itself has been lovingly restored, and guests can experience a little of what it must have been like to live among the rich and powerful of the early 1900s. Author Blossom Turner does a good job of bringing those days to life in her novella-length book. The story contrasts the excessiveness of the rich with those who made their living in very different ways. The story revolves around a rich young heiress and a humble and earnest preacher tasked with delivering not-so-comfortable sermons to those on the island. There’s a salvation moment in which eyes and ears are opened to God’s truth. Christmas at The Jekyll Island Club will appeal to those who like to venture back in time through the pages of a historical romance.

Recommended.

Audience: older teens and adults.

(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

She was born into privilege yet yearns for freedom. Dare she risk it all for love?

Though spunky Savannah Ensworth was born into wealth and privilege, she longs for the freedom allotted to men. Marriage is the very last thing on her to-do list. As the sole heir to her father’s fortune, she’s in no hurry to turn the freedom that comes with wealth over to a husband.

Bored and restless, she arrives for yet another mind-numbing winter season at the Jekyll Island Millionaire’s Club. There is nothing new under the sun…or so she thinks until she meets Joseph Bennett, the visiting reverend.

As sparks fly, a forbidden attraction grows. But will their very different lives snuff out any hope of a future? And is she ready to give up the freedom she’s always desired for a love that could cost her everything?

Blossom Turner is an award-winning novelist who loves to jump out of planes, garden, and sing… all for fun.

She is published in Chicken Soup and Kernels of Hope anthologies, a former newspaper columnist on health and fitness and personal trainer. She writes a monthly inspirational newsletter and blog.

As a later-in-life career she is pursuing her dream to write and is gifted in bringing to life thought-provoking stories of love and relationship sprinkled with God’s hope. Check out the award-winning Shenandoah Bride Series about five sisters and their love stories all with an inspirational twist.

She and her husband, David, have two grown children and live in beautiful British Columbia, Canada, with their Shepherd/Bernese dog named Lacey.

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If You Liked . . . The Christmas Tree Farm

15 Dec

My book club chose The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson for our December selection. It was not my favorite by Carlson, but it was a quick, pleasant, Christmas-y read. If you liked it (or share my viewpoint) I have some more recommendations for you. I read all three of these books during the 2023 Christmas season and LOVED them! I usually schedule my If You Liked . . . posts on the last day of the month, but you really need to read these books before Christmas!

All’s Fair in Love And Christmas by Sarah Monzon

Two workplace rivals. One festive competition. And a romance that upends it all.

Every December two things are guaranteed for graphic designer Mackenzie Graham–Christmas celebrations and the annual promotion at her workplace. Those two things are by no means mutually exclusive. In fact, the better an employee is at harnessing the Christmas spirit, the more likely they’ll win the new job. With her social anxiety, Mackenzie never thought she’d be a contender in her company’s holiday competition, so how exactly has she found herself dueling her workplace crush with wrapping paper tubes and using tinsel as her weapon of choice for a much-needed raise?

Jeremy Fletcher’s life is meticulously planned out, including how to win this year’s promotion at work. Not only will the new position fulfill some of his career goals, but as a single guardian to his twin niece and nephew, he needs the salary increase to support his family. Jeremy has barely noticed Mackenzie Graham around the office, but now that she’s his rival, he can’t stop thinking about her. Her quirkiness intrigues him, and he’s afraid that if he can’t get his head on straight, the promotion isn’t the only thing he’ll end up losing to Mackenzie.

Better Watch Out by Natalie Walters

An accidental meet-cute, a case of mistaken identity, and a bucket-list of Christmas activities befitting a Hallmark movie make this holiday romantic adventure the perfect Christmas read.

Leave the candy canes, take the pepper spray!

Nothing screams Christmas like a week spent ice skating, visiting Santa, and sharing a kiss or two under the mistletoe. Frannie Frost has crafted the perfect bucket list of romantic activities to surprise her boyfriend in the most magical place at Christmas time—New York City. When he unexpectedly becomes her ex, her plans are derailed leaving her with a choice. Wallow in self-pity at Christmas time or take matters into her own hands.

Former NHL defenseman turned personal protection agent, Andrew Bishop, loves his job—when things go as planned—but Frannie Frost is definitely not part of the plan. Still, when her brother, the man who saved Andrew’s life last year, asks him to deliver his sister safely to the airport, he can’t say no.

The only problem? Frannie isn’t leaving. She’s determined to make the most of her trip by checking off a bucket list of cliché Christmas activities that would make even Santa’s elves jealous. Andrew’s content to let her go until he learns that Frannie’s been mistaken for his client and thrust into the midst of danger.

Better Watch Out is a sweet romantic holiday adventure that gives you all of laughs of a rom-com while adding a touch of suspense. Tropes you’re sure to love include the new girl in the city vibe, stranded at Christmas, under the mistletoe, forced proximity, and a touch of enemies to lovers. Enjoy this romantic adventure that’s sure to make your holidays merry and bright.

You Make It Feel Like Christmas by Toni Shiloh

It’s the most wonderful time of the year–for everyone except Starr Lewis.

As if going home for the holidays jobless and single wasn’t bad enough, she’s dragged into a holiday season full of activities leading up to her sister’s uber-romantic Christmas Eve wedding–to Starr’s ex-boyfriend. But when her brother’s best friend, Waylon Emmerson, attends their family Thanksgiving, she starts to wonder if maybe coming home for Christmas isn’t so bad after all.

As Starr finds the perfect distraction in helping Waylon make over his late mother’s Christmas shop, the most wonderful time of the year works its magic and the spark between them grows. But with the holidays fast approaching, Starr must decide what she wants out of life after the gifts are unwrapped and the ornaments are put away–to go back to New York City or to open her heart to a love that will last beyond Christmas Day?

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Book Review: The Christmas Tree Farm

9 Dec

I like to include at least one Christmas novella leading into the holiday season. This year my book club chose to read The Christmas Tree Farm by Melody Carlson. If you are looking for a feel-good story with serious Hallmark vibes, then this one is for you.

When Madison McDowell returns from several years teaching overseas, she has high hopes of picking up where she left off at her family’s Christmas tree farm in Oregon. But between damage from a recent wildfire and the neglect due to her sister Addie’s unwillingness to invest, the farm is in sad shape. In fact, Addie is intent on selling the property. And to top it off, her former high school flame, the now-widowed Gavin Thompson, has plans to break Madison’s heart again by turning his neighboring property into a dusty, noisy dirt bike track for his daughter.

With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there’s only one thing to do: double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work–and some help from an unlikely ally–to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister.

Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson charms and delights with this uplifting Christmas story full of old memories and new beginnings.

Melody Carlson has written more than 200 books (with sales around 6.5 million) for teens, women and children. That’s a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a “storyteller.” Her novels range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She’s won a number of awards (including Romantic Time’s Career Achievement Award, the Rita and the Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV. Carlson has two grown sons and makes her home in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and yellow Lab dog. To find out more about Melody Carlson, visit her website at http://www.melodycarlson.com/

My Impressions:

Sometimes you want an uncomplicated, feel-good story with a Christmas-y setting. You will get that with Melody Carlson’s novella The Christmas Tree Farm. With serious Hallmark vibes, this holiday romance is set in the most Christmas location — a Christmas tree farm. The main character, Madison, returns to the place of her cherished childhood memories ready to begin a new life. She faces obstacles of a depressed economy and a manipulative younger sister, but puts in the work to bring the tree farm back to its former glory. She also has a second chance at love which is always a favorite trope. Add in a hunky leading man and an adorable kid sidekick and you have the elements for a fun Christmas read. Is it predictable? You bet! But sometimes that’s just what you want or need.

The Christmas Tree Farm isn’t my favorite of Carlson’s novellas, but it was a quick read that I found enjoyable. If you are looking for a light read with all the holiday trimmings, then give this one a try.

Audience: Adults

(I received a complimentary ebook from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Spotlight on Christmas/Romance Fiction — A Guardian Till Christmas

31 Oct

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Guardian Till Christmas by Danielle Thorne, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About The Book

A Guardian Till Christmas

Title: A Guardian Till Christmas
Author: Danielle Thorne
Publisher: Love Inspired
Release Date: October 22, 2024
Genre: Inspirational Romance

She’s always in charge…

Until two little hearts take over this holiday season…

After the loss of her sister, Kylee Spokes plans to take custody of her orphaned niece and nephew and return to the big city by Christmas. Except corralling four-year-old twins is much harder than the businesswoman expects. And small-town paramedic Evan Hollister refuses to abandon his godchildren to someone who has no experience with kids—and can’t even boil water! Now these opposites must find a way to temporarily co-parent together. As grudging respect turns into something more, can they find a permanent solution…that lasts past the holidays?

Excerpt

Kylee crossed her arms over her chest. “I’m sorry my parenting skills aren’t on par with your expectations. I told you my only experience was with interns. Maybe if there were penalties for their behavior, they would follow orders.”

“What are you going to do? Fine them?” Evan quipped. He held firmly to Annabelle’s hand as she began to tug. “Demote them?”

“Funny,” snapped Kylee. “If Mia had—”

“You have no idea how Mia raised her children,” he said in a low tone. “You weren’t around, were you?”

“Well, I’m here now.” Kylee’s retort sounded confident and challenging, as lightning flashed in her eyes.

“I’m here to help, Kylee.”

“Why don’t you take them both home for lunch then, and I’ll be right behind you?”

“Fine,” said Evan. “I’m sure they would rather read anyway.”

“Enjoy your time with them. I’m going to get a cupcake.”

His time with them. If her plans to leave by Christmas were set, his time with them was running short.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

Also Available

The Doctor's Christmas Dilemma by Danielle Thorne The Beekeeper Next Door

About The Author

Danielle Thorne

Danielle Thorne writes happily-ever-afters set in the South for Harlequin Love Inspired. A graduate of BYU-Idaho, she also writes stories about Regency ladies, pirates, and not-so-distressed damsels from her home south of Atlanta. Free time is filled with documentaries, too much yard work, and not enough travel. When not writing wholesome romances, Danielle hangs out with friends or chases cats. She enjoys the outdoors and serving in her church and community. Danielle’s been married to the same fellow for thirty years, has four sons, two daughters-in-law, twin grandbabies, and she loves them more than life.

Connect with Danielle by visiting daniellethorne.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive an autographed paperback of A Guardian Till Christmas and a $20 Chickfila gift card!

(1) winner will receive an ebook of A Guardian Till Christmas!

A Guardian Till Christmas JustRead Tour blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 30, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 6, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only for print copy & gift card. Ebook giveaway is open to US and international winners. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

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Spotlight on Christmas Fiction — A Weary World Rejoices

14 Oct

A Weary World Rejoices JustRead Blog +Review

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for A Weary World Rejoices by Stacy Monson, Eleanor Bertin, Johnnie Alexander, Angela D. Meyer, and Sara Davison, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About The Book

A Weary World Rejoices

Title: A Weary World Rejoices
Series: A Mosaic Christmas Anthology VI
Authors: Stacy Monson, Eleanor Bertin, Johnnie Alexander, Angela D. Meyer, Sara Davison
Publisher: The Mosaic Collection, LLC
Release Date: October 16, 2024
Genre: Christian Christmas anthology

With nothing going as planned, will Christmas be a complete disaster this year?

The people in these stories are tired, weighed down by the struggles and cares of life. In the midst of their challenging situations, each receives an unexpected letter.

The Christmas Kiss – Stacy Monson
Unremarkable Sue – Eleanor Bertin
Love, Christmas – Johnnie Alexander
Gifting Christmas – Angela D. Meyer
The Back Door Christmas Tour Company – Sara Davison

Songs like “O Holy Night”are filling the airwaves and promising hope for a weary world, but what will it take for the men and women in these stories to experience true joy this Christmas?

A Weary World Rejoices is a collection of five stories about discovering joy in the midst of life’s challenges—at Christmas and every day of the year.

Excerpt

From The Back Door Christmas Tour Company by Sara Davison

The company spokesperson, who spoke English with a light, Tahitian accent, was nice enough but firm in her insistence that, like all the other companies, their over the holidays were full.

Rav drove his fingers through his hair. Might as well see if he could catch a flight home tomorrow. Pick up his life where he had left off and carry on as though this crazy little spontaneous blip had never happened.

The thought depressed him enough that he decided to take one more shot. “I’m sorry to hear that. You were my last hope. You wouldn’t consider adding one more person if I paid extra?”

After a brief pause, the woman spoke. “Just one? Are you saying you are all alone for Christmas?” As though afraid of anyone overhearing her, the woman had lowered her voice enough that Rav pressed the phone harder to his ear, straining to catch the words. Words that suddenly brought his bleak situation into sharp focus.

He sighed. “Yeah. I suppose I am.”

“What is your name?”

“Rav Temauri.”

A clicking sound echoed through the phone, as though the woman was inputting something into a keyboard. Looking him up? His muscles tensed, but then Rav relaxed. He didn’t have much of an online presence, and he certainly didn’t have anything in his mundane life to hide. What difference would it make if she did a little research on him?

After a moment, she murmured, “So, you’re the one.”

Rav raised his eyebrows. The one? What did that mean?



PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Also Available



About the Authors

Stacy Monson Eleanor Bertin

Stacy Monson is the award-winning author of stories that reveal an extraordinary God at work in ordinary life. Residing in the beautiful, peaceful countryside outside of the Twin Cities with an old dog and 17 chickens. She has two kids, two wonderful in-law kids, and adores being G’ma to 7 amazing grandchildren.

Connect with Stacy at stacymonson.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

From her home in central Alberta, Canada, Eleanor Bertin writes fiction that ponders the depths of God’s love and mercy to humanity. She is the author of The Ties That Bind series, Lifelines, Unbound, and Tethered, the Burning Bright series, Flame of Mercy and Flicker of Trust, as well as the memoir, Pall of Silence, about her late son, Paul. She lives with her husband of 40 years and their youngest son, in what will someday be a beautiful century home.

Connect with Eleanor at eleanorbertinauthor.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Johnnie Alexander Angela D Meyer

Johnnie Alexander is a wannabe vagabond with a heart for making memories. As a bestselling, award-winning novelist, she has written more than thirty works of fiction in a variety of genres. She is both traditionally and indie-published, serves as board secretary for the Mosaic Collection, LLC (an indie-author group) and faculty chair for the Mid-South Christian Writers Conference; co-hosts Writers Chat, a weekly online show; and contributes to the Heroes, Heroines, and History blog. A fan of classic movies, stacks of books, and road trips, Johnnie shares a life of quiet adventure with Rugby, her raccoon-treeing papillon. Her grands call her “The Shadow” and dutifully follow this unbreakable rule ~ only she is allowed to open a new bag of Classic Lay’s potato chips.

Connect with Johnnie at johnnie-alexander.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Angela D. Meyer writes fiction that showcases God’s ability to redeem and restore the brokenness in our lives. Angela currently lives in Nebraska, where she and her husband homeschooled and graduated both of their children. Angela is a part of the Mosaic Collection and writes stories that showcase God’s redemption and restoration in our brokenness. Angela enjoys sunrises and sunsets, the ocean when she gets a chance to visit, and hopes to ride in a hot air balloon someday.

Connect with Angela at angeladmeyer.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Sara Davison

Sara Davison is the author of The Night Guardians, The Rose Tattoo, two sparrows for a penny, and In the Shadows series, as well as the standalone, The Watcher. A finalist for more than a dozen national writing awards, including the Christy Award, Davison is a Holt Medallion, Cascade, and two-time Carol Award winner for romantic suspense. She lives in Ontario with her husband, Michael. Like every good Canadian, she loves coffee, hockey, poutine, and apologizing for no particular reason.

Connect with Sara at saradavison.org to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a paperback copy of A Weary World Rejoices as well as a metal wall hanging that says A Thrill of Hope, the Weary World Rejoices!

A Weary World Rejoices JustRead Tours blog giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 14, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 21, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

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Book Review: All’s Fair In Love And Christmas

20 Dec

Looking for a great read for Christmas? Look no further than All’s Fair in Love And Christmas by Sarah Monzon. This lovely, heartwarming romance will definitely put you in the holiday mood. I loved it!

Two workplace rivals. One festive competition. And a romance that upends it all.

Every December two things are guaranteed for graphic designer Mackenzie Graham–Christmas celebrations and the annual promotion at her workplace. Those two things are by no means mutually exclusive. In fact, the better an employee is at harnessing the Christmas spirit, the more likely they’ll win the new job. With her social anxiety, Mackenzie never thought she’d be a contender in her company’s holiday competition, so how exactly has she found herself dueling her workplace crush with wrapping paper tubes and using tinsel as her weapon of choice for a much-needed raise?

Jeremy Fletcher’s life is meticulously planned out, including how to win this year’s promotion at work. Not only will the new position fulfill some of his career goals, but as a single guardian to his twin niece and nephew, he needs the salary increase to support his family. Jeremy has barely noticed Mackenzie Graham around the office, but now that she’s his rival, he can’t stop thinking about her. Her quirkiness intrigues him, and he’s afraid that if he can’t get his head on straight, the promotion isn’t the only thing he’ll end up losing to Mackenzie.

Winner of the Holt Medallion and Selah Award, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain’s wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.

My Impressions:

Mackenzie and Jeremy’s boss always announces a promotion opportunity at Christmastime and always seems to give the job to the employee who exhibits the most holiday cheer. So when the two are tapped as candidates, the reindeer games commence! I really liked the workplace romance juxtaposed against the characters’ personal lives — the two have a lot at stake in the unofficial competition. As the days run up towards the Christmas party and big announcement, the two learn so much about each other and themselves. This is definitely a romance, but it is also a road to discovery as the two learn to trust God with plans and problems, and to seek help from friends and professionals. A big part of the story, as told in Mackenzie’s first person voice, is her struggle with social anxiety. I really get that. While I have never had the extreme anxiety and pain attacks that plague Mackenzie, her plight hit home. Her situation may be extreme, but it certainly rang true. Her best friend/roommate is the best! I loved how Monzon gave Mackenzie unconditional, non-judgmental support in the character of Keri. Jeremy has no issues with social awkwardness, but he does rely on his own plans, and his friends remind him that God’s plans are way better than our own.

All’s Fair in Love And Christmas checked all the boxes for me — sweet romance, endearing characters, a little bit of fun, laughter, and tears. It’s the real deal and a highly recommended read!

Highly Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(Thanks to Bethany House Publishers for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Mini-Book Review: Last to Know

12 Dec

Brandy Heineman‘s Christmas-y novella, Last to Know, is a romantic suspense that kept me engaged and guessing. Main characters Nadine and Chase have developed a close friend relationship while working at their small town historical museum. Both are dedicated to preserving their community’s historical artifacts, but a number of forces come together to force the museum’s closure. It all seems like business/politics as usual, until Nadine and Chase discover what seems to be a cover-up of a decades-old murder. While uncovering clues and avoiding danger, the MCs go from friends to more. I liked the small town-vibe, the sweet romance, and the suspense that kept the characters and me on my toes. I did not see the ending coming! There are themes of abandonment and feelings of unworthiness, and the author presents a strong message of finding value in our relationship with God.

If you are looking for a quick and Christmas-y read, then Last to Know is a great choice.

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

All she wants for Christmas . . . is an end to this terrible year.

Silver bells are ringing, but family drama and flaky finances have Nadine Notaro wrung out. The only bright spots this holiday season are her job at the Blissford Historical Society and her cheery, dependable co-worker, Chase Garren—until the City Council cuts their funding. The lost income will be bad enough, but what about Chase? Though quick to remind everyone they’re just friends, she can’t stomach losing him, too.

While packing up the Society’s record collections, Chase and Nadine discover a journalist’s cache of negatives pointing to a decades-old scandal and cover-up. Entanglements with the City’s biggest power players pull their strings, but every clue brings them closer to the truth—and each other—until Nadine finds evidence of a betrayal she never thought possible.

Casting light on the lies may ruin Christmas and their friendship, but it stands to cost them much more.

Brandy Heineman is a book hoarder, cat herder, and author of inspirational dual timeline novels. Antique shops and digital newspaper archives top her list of happy places, and she fuels her day job in marketing and life as a novelist with endless cups of tea. Her debut finaled in the 2014 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Contest, and after its initial publication, was rereleased in 2020. Brandy has served as president of the North Georgia chapter of ACFW and lives in Metro Atlanta with her husband, Michael.

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Top 10 Tuesday — Winter TBR!

12 Dec

I always love doing posts like today’s TTT topic. It helps focus my reading goals and reminds me of what great reading I have ahead. And I tend not to veer off the topic. 😉 So without further ado, I present my Winter TBR! I’ve added a note to each to let you know and remind me why I am reading each book.

For more Winter TBR lists, check out That Artsy Reader Girl.

Top Books on My Winter TBR

All’s Fair in Love And Christmas by Sarah Monzon (review)

By Her Own Design by Piper Huguley (book club)

The Foxhole Victory Tour by Amy Lynn Green (review)

He Should Have Told The Bees by Amanda Cox (book festival)

Into The Fire by Irene Hannon (book club)

The Juliet Code by Pepper Basham (review)

Letters from My Sister by Valerie Luesse (book club)

The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare by Kimberly Brock (book festival)

Missy by Randy Pierce (book festival)

The Paris Bookseller by Kerri Maher (book club)

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Book Review — Better Watch Out

11 Dec

If you are a fan of Natalie Walters‘ Harbored Secrets series, you are in for a treat with Better Watch Out. Frannie, sister of Ryan Frost from book 2 in the series, Deadly Deceit, is the main character in this cute romantic suspense novella. I loved Frannie from the start of this book. And the setting! NYC at Christmas is magical, and Walters captures all the fun. But because it is a Walters book, the characters are not off the hook with danger around every corner. Be prepared for fast-paced fun!

An accidental meet-cute, a case of mistaken identity, and a bucket-list of Christmas activities befitting a Hallmark movie make this holiday romantic adventure the perfect Christmas read.

Leave the candy canes, take the pepper spray!

Nothing screams Christmas like a week spent ice skating, visiting Santa, and sharing a kiss or two under the mistletoe. Frannie Frost has crafted the perfect bucket list of romantic activities to surprise her boyfriend in the most magical place at Christmas time—New York City. When he unexpectedly becomes her ex, her plans are derailed leaving her with a choice. Wallow in self-pity at Christmas time or take matters into her own hands.

Former NHL defenseman turned personal protection agent, Andrew Bishop, loves his job—when things go as planned—but Frannie Frost is definitely not part of the plan. Still, when her brother, the man who saved Andrew’s life last year, asks him to deliver his sister safely to the airport, he can’t say no.

The only problem? Frannie isn’t leaving. She’s determined to make the most of her trip by checking off a bucket list of cliché Christmas activities that would make even Santa’s elves jealous. Andrew’s content to let her go until he learns that Frannie’s been mistaken for his client and thrust into the midst of danger.

Better Watch Out is a sweet romantic holiday adventure that gives you all of laughs of a rom-com while adding a touch of suspense. Tropes you’re sure to love include the new girl in the city vibe, stranded at Christmas, under the mistletoe, forced proximity, and a touch of enemies to lovers. Enjoy this romantic adventure that’s sure to make your holidays merry and bright.

Natalie Walters is a best selling author who loves writing romantic suspense with dynamic plots, memorable characters, humor, heart, and adventure.

As an Army wife, she fills her stories with the right balance of romantic and suspenseful tension to get the heart-racing and a cast of witty characters–all of which, may or may not be inspired by true people and/or events.

When she’s not writing, she’s dreaming of her next vacation, spending time with her family, or chasing after her sock-eating Goldendoodle, Scout. Annnd binging CourtTv.

You can find Natalie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliewalters_writer/

Or join her Facebook group: Natalie Walters Book Battalion

My Impressions:

I am a huge fan of Natalie Walters’ romantic suspense novels. Always filled with unexpected twists and turns, the books also have great characters to connect with. Better Watch Out, a Christmas-y novella brings back minor character, Frannie Frost, from her first series and introduces a new hero to love, Andrew, a former NHL player turned personal security agent. While Frannie might seem like she needs a bodyguard — the meet-cute between the two is extreme and hilarious — she holds her own when bad guys appear. A mistaken identity puts Frannie in danger and brings the two together. The chemistry is sizzling sweet as they navigate the dangers on the streets of NYC. And NYC is decked out in its Christmas-y finery. I visited at Christmas time a few years ago, and Walters’ descriptions and the characters’ adventures brought back fond memories. Better Watch Out explores the themes of worthiness and the failure to measure up. You will cheer Frannie and Andrew on as they navigate a new relationship and new insights into life. The novella length makes this one a quick read, so I am anxious to revisit the Defensemen. I am hoping this is the sweet start of another great series by Walters.

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(I purchased this novella from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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