The Duke's Dream by Giovanna Sinischalchi

 

The Duke's Dream by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

I struggled a bit with this book. I have typically enjoyed Giovanna Siniscalchi's work but I'd have to say that this is probably my least favorite so far. There are elements to the story that I really enjoyed, especially the character of Helene. There were parts of the story that I became very bogged down in and felt that they could probably have been left out. This is also a little spicier that I tend to like when reading a novel.

I do appreciate the research and the backstory that was incorporated into the timeline of Helene and William. This author does take care in making sure that her stories are as historically accurate as possible.

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Until Leaves Fall in Paris by Sarah Sundin

 

Until Leaves Fall in Paris by Sarah Sundin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a beautiful, yet at times tragic, story. I love historical reads and this one did not disappoint. I don't believe I've read anything by this author before (if I have it's been many, many years) and I can't wait to get ahold of another one of her stories.

I loved so many things about Lucie and Paul's story. I can't imagine the fear that they both lived in during that time of life. The secrecy and lies that had to take place just to survive all the events of the time in Paris. Then, there's Paul's daughter, who stole my heart right away when I thought her dad was being a jerk....she's precious!

A great clean Christian romance novel set in Paris during World War II. A few tears were shed during the listening of this audiobook.

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The Winemakers Box Set (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi

 

The Winemakers - Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a compilation of reviews that I've written on these individual books.

The True Purpose of Vines (The Winemakers #1) 5 stars
I love a good historical romance...they are among my favorite genre! This was a bit of a learning curve for me on this one though because I do not drink. I was lost on a lot of the wine references but I did learn a few things about how wine is made and found it interesting.

This book is set in Portugal during the 1800's and is centered around a plague that attacked vineyards during that time. Mrs. Julia Costa is one of those vineyard owners, after being left a widow and a single mother. Women were not looked highly upon as business owners during this time so she faced increased scrutiny due to her standing in life, as well as her occupation.

Griffin Maxwell is an Englishman who is really good at keeping books. When his business partner suggests that he checks out this particular vineyard, Griffin obliges. The findings he uncovers will be the end of someone in this story though!

Julia and Griffin eventually meet and the sparks pretty much start flying right away, however very subdued. I love how the author allowed the character development to take place before the romance really heated up. There's a few extra players involved too...so scandalous! ;) In the end, can different cultures comingle and create something more beautiful than the vines themselves or will dedication to culture win out?

I'm excited to read the next book in this series, although I already don't like a particular character and the way he behaved in this one. We'll see if he will have any redeeming qualities about him!

The Taste of Light (The Winemakers #2) 4 stars
This review is going to be hard to write without spoilers but I'll do my best!

First of all, this is a stand alone book but I HIGHLY recommend reading book 1 (The True Purpose of Vines: An intoxicating historical romance about wine and love.) so you can have a proper understanding of Pedro. Reading this book first will probably ruin a lot of things for you!

I HATED Pedro in the first book. I mean, a deep loathing for the man. I can't say that now. He's found a way to redeem himself with the way he's handled Anne. It took me awhile to be able to say that but he's earned his redemption!

Anne is helping out her sister-in-law with the vines and dealing with an outbreak of Phylloxera when she meets Pedro. Anne is a polar opposite of Pedro, along with several years younger.

Can Anne show Pedro how to be a decent human being? Will Pedro find his redemption and deal with his past?

There's a little bit of everything to love in this book. A great historical based story that includes some humor, spicy romance, and a redeeming heart!

The Truth about Myths (The Winemakers #3) 4 stars

Henrique the Viscount is a scientist and an extremely playful rake. Isabel is a prude and proper princess. Two very unlikely people to ever want to be in the presence of another. When Isabel is sent to Portugal by her brother, the "bodyguard" assigned to her is none other than Henrique. Let the adventures begin!!

This book is romantic, funny, and a wee bit spicy! Even though this is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone. I've not been disappointed by a book from this author!! Looking forward to more!


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The Earl’s Match (The Thompsons of Locust Street Series) by Holly Bush

 

The Earl's Match by Holly Bush
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable read that will lead you through family dynamics involving murder, adventure, angst, romance, and lots of drama. I enjoy reading historical romances, especially those involving families like the Thompsons. This book can be read as a stand alone, which is how I came across this one. I'm looking forward to reading the previous books in the series. The characters are very loveable and because of that, I want to read more on the other siblings featured in previous books.

If you love historical romance with a great storyline, be sure to check this one out!

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Dancing Butterfly (Butterflies Fly Free Series) by Debra Parmley

 

Dancing Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Suki eyes Frank....Frank eyes Suki. It's an instant attraction and when Frank rescues a favorite earring of Suki's, their fate is sealed. Almost permanently and pretty quickly. Shots are fired and Frank is pushing Suki towards the basement door. Suki injures her foot (not a good thing for anyone but especially a dancer!) and Frank has to carry her.

During her recouperation time, Frank is pretty bossy. He does work for Al Capone after all, and is used to having things go his way. Frank doesn't want Suki going anywhere, talking to anyone, and most definitely not walking on her foot. Suki isn't about to be told what to do by another, especially a man. Will she ever be free of his rules to be the person she is or did she sell her soul to the highest bidder?

This was an enjoyable book and was a pretty fast read for me. I am anxiously awaiting the next book as this storyline has me intrigued!



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The Scent of Snow (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi

 

The Scent of Snow: A Winemakers Novella by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The conclusion of this series comes to us in the form of this novella. Pedro and Anne have been married for a couple of years now and it's coming upon the Christmas season. Anne's family is coming to visit and Pedro is just overjoyed at their arrival (insert mass sarcasm here). Things have been going well for Anne and Pedro except for one thing....Pedro is refusing to give Anne the one thing she wants most. As the family starts to arrive, Pedro receives some unexpected news that will cause a shift in his demeanor and have Anne wondering what could possibly be up with him. Can Christmas be saved and the bridge that is gulfing this couple be mended?

It's another great historical read and one that still has me a little leery of Pedro. He's been growing on me since first meeting him in The True Purpose of Vines but I'm still not completely won over by him yet. I'm hoping his and Anne's story is not done yet and that they will make cameo appearances in future books.

This book can be read as a standalone. I would encourage you to read the entire series in order though so you have a good history of Pedro!

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An Awakened Heart by Jody Hedlund

 

An Awakened Heart by Jody Hedlund
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Christine is a well-to-do woman who feels empty. She is looking for a way to make a difference in the world and is becoming discouraged by the message she keeps hearing on Sunday mornings. So many women in attendance are looking for ways to better their lives but they find it hard to do when resources are so few. They want meaningful jobs with decent pay but also need childcare, food, and clothing. Christine approaches to local minister who responds that when they women show more faith, they will come into better things. Christine disagrees and sets out to find a better solution.

Along the way, Christine finds herself falling in love with this preacher that she was so disconcerted about initially. He's finding himself falling in love with her too. They are, afterall, working pretty closely together on a daily basis so it only makes sense.

There is a bit of a dual storyline going on here as the story also features Elise and her family, along with their struggles. Everyone will all come together in the end though!

I look forward to reading more stories in this series! While this book is a little older, I'm just now finding it!

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At Your Request by Jen Turano

 

At Your Request by Jen Turano
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a pretty fun and sometimes funny read. I found myself laughing out loud several times while enjoying this story.

Miss Wilhelmena Radcliff is someone that I would consider a brat! She's from a wealthy family and hasn't had to want for much in life. During her coming out party, her best friend of forever proposes marriage to her. She turns him down and subsequently, her life starts going downhill. Her dad loses a bunch of money in a business deal and "Willie" finds herself a wallflower among the New York society. It's at a ball that she runs into Mr. Edgar Wanamaker, the young man who was her best friend and who proposed marriage to her. It had been several years since they'd last seen each other and their meeting is rather humorous! Will they rekindle the flames or move on with their lives?

I think I loved Edgar's mom the most. She reminds me of a very sassy woman I once knew who kept everyone on their toes. This was an enjoyable, quick read and I look forward to continuing with this series!

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A Journey for Dorothy (The Reluctant Wagon Train Bride Series) by P. Creeden

 

A Journey for Dorothy by P. Creeden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dorothy has been a widow for just a few short years and she's not looking to get married again. She and Scout have made a decent life for themselves on their little piece of land. When Dorothy gets a letter from her sister, she decides that maybe she can make some changes in her life. Along her journey, she meets a man named Elias and together they forge a way to Oregon on the wagon train. Can their relationship sustain the rocky hills or will there be an annulment in the future?

I love books like this! Historical reads are my favorite and add that it's a clean read and it's a win-win! This was a fairly short read as well. Made for an enjoyable end to an evening!

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Trapping the Butterfly (Butterflies Fly Free Series Book 1) by Debra Parmley

 

Trapping The Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book, set in the 1920's, is very similar to the story of Rapunzel in my mind. Bethany is about to come of age in just a few days. She lives with her aunt and uncle after the untimely death of her parents. They decide as a family to travel to Hot Springs so that her aunt can experience some bathing treatments for ailments that she's suffering.

Bethany is looking forward to being out from under the thumb of her aunt and uncle and she's excited to spend her 18th birthday while on vacation. She's tired of being told what to eat (and that's when she's allowed to), what to wear, how to act, etc.

She meets a man named Paul who warns her to avoid the 4th floor of the hotel she's staying in because it's inhabited by Al Capone. Paul is a detective trying to bring down the mobster. Bethany doesn't take well to being told what to do and finds herself meeting Al Capone face to face.

This story is full of adventure, drama, and of finding oneself. I thoroughly enjoyed this rather short read and now look forward to reading the next story in this series.

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Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer

 

Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Penelope Snow is travelling with an acting troupe as an assistant to the lead actress, Narcissa. When Penelope starts to catch on to Narcissa's evil ways, she's abruptly taken out to pasture and left to die by Narcissa's right hand henchman.

Titus Kingsley is a Texas Ranger who's reeling from the loss of his brother, Tate. He's officially taken himself off the market after a woman led to Tate's demise. That is, until he sees HER. She's twirling around in a field with not a care in the world.

The seven men of Diamond D become super protective over Titus and Penelope when life brings them together unexpectedly. Can the lot of them keep the Evil Queen (Narcissa) away and let the Prince win his girl?

I LOVED this story!! Karen Witemeyer never disappoints with her stories! There are so many levels in this book and many raw emotions that come out. This is a loose retelling of the fairy tale of Snow White but on a much deeper level. This is a story of true forgiveness, of submission, and of love. I can't wait to read more books in this series!

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries Book 5) by Kimberly Mullins

 

Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I knew this book was going to be a great one when it starts out....

"WHAM! Something hit Emma on he back of the head, and she pivoted toward the assailant. The old woman stopped her by jumping on her back, pulling her hair, and stabbing at her neck frantically with knitting needles."

I do know how to knit but I prefer to crochet. This opening paragraph had me from the start and I just had to know what was up with this lady! It really wasn't too significant in the overall story but still....I loved it!

Emma is at it again with her team of sleuthing family members and friends. This time, there are several children who've been kidnapped and it's up to Emma and company to try to return them to their rightful homes. As they are working this case, other smaller cases come up that they are trying to quell. Many of those smaller cases have ties to the much larger case at hand.

The overall themes this book features are topics such as human trafficking, bigamy, and women empowerment.

This book could be read as a standalone but the reader would miss out on some of the dynamics of the characters. I have really enjoyed this series and this has been my favorite so far. I am looking forward to the next book that should be released later on this year.

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After She Became a Lady by Wareeze Woodson

 

After She Became a Lady by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

She's at the tender age of 17 years old but Laurel Collingsworth knows without a doubt she wants to marry Lord Robert Laningham. Her aunt is beside herself because this just isn't how things are done! However, aunt Betsy relents and Laurel and Lord Robert are married. Just as soon as they arrive at their manor, things start to challenge their marriage. First of all, Lord Robert failed to sharing his upcoming nuptials with his twin sister, Rhonda. Let's just say that Rhonda does not handle this news well at all because now there are two Lady Laninghams and Rhonda's not ready to share that title with anyone. Then, just mere days after their marriage, Lord Robert is called away to fight in the war, leaving his new wife with his hostile and, dare I say, crazy, sister. Will Laurel ever be able to adjust to this new life and deal with her sister-in-law?

This book was enjoyable and kept to a lot of historical speech. I found myself laughing at some of the language used, as it's not heard anymore and sounded funny. There were parts of this book that were never resolved but maybe that wasn't necessary because in the end, it's about Robert and Laurel. I'd have liked to known how certain situations would have fleshed out though. This is a fairly clean read with some romantic scenes, but they are not overly descriptive and could be appropriate for mature teen readers.

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Soliloquy by Janet Fogg

 

Soliloquy by Janet Fogg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This beautiful novel reads like a well-mastered symphony. I was intrigued by the first page and could hardly put this one down!

Erin's aunt recently passed and she and her sister have inherited her wealthy estate. One day, a young man comes to Erin to deliver a box. Erin thinking that she's already received everything is very perplexed....even more so when she opens the box to find very beautiful dolls inside. What could her aunt have possibly meant by leaving these dolls behind? There is a note and Erin is still rather confounded by these dolls but soon, she'll be on an adventure that could change her life.

When one of the dolls falls and smashes to smithereens, Erin finds herself in another place and time. A place of danger, toil, confusion, love, and forgiveness. Erin's a prisoner but only so her friends can survive. She's willing to try to meet the demands of the Oberst but not willing to give up her beloved Soliloquy...or is she? Can Erin find her way back home where she belongs? What about those she might leave behind?

Arick is a pilot who's shot down that Erin and her friends come across. Do they take the chance to harbor him, knowing that if they're found out, they'll all be gone or do they send him on his way, injured and possibly without hope? What can Arick do to help this family, if anything? What about the fact that Erin feels like he should know her? So many beautiful angles here!

This is a new-to-me author and I'm hoping for a sequel to this book. I believe a door may have been left open for another story! The things that Erin experiences in this story are pretty realistic during that time frame of WWII. I enjoy reading these period pieces and this one has a time travel aspect to it as well.

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Isabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail Order Bride by Debra Parmley

 

Isabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail-Order Brides Series by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isabella has recently arrived in Massachusetts by way of Sweden. She finds work in a textile mill, which burns to the ground shortly after she starts working there. Not sure where she will go or what she will do next, Isabella and a group of her friends start looking at ads for mail-order brides. Isabella starts writing with a man named Donald Jenks and it's soon decided that she will meet up with him. Having already faced a lot of tragedy in her life and hearing her grandmother's warning about how bad things happen in 3's, Isabella is a little apprehensive about this trip to Ohio to meet her likely future husband. He sounds great on paper...has the perfect house, a great job, good life goals...everything a girl who had nothing could desire. Will this be her picture perfect marriage?

I love reading mail-order bride books!! They are some of my favorites. In a way, I liken it to a more modern trend of internet-brides....one of which I am! I met my husband online and we dated for a short time in real life before marrying. I went through similar emotions that Isabella experienced, only in a more modern time frame for sure.

There were a couple of unexpected twists in this book but ones that made the story much more relatable and realistic. The characters were very well developed and likeable (well, most of them were...). I understand that this book is part of a 50 book series. I'll have to read some of the others in this series!

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The True Purpose of Vines (The Winemakers Book 1) by Giovanna Siniscalchi

 

The True Purpose of Vines by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love a good historical romance...they are among my favorite genre! This was a bit of a learning curve for me on this one though because I do not drink. I was lost on a lot of the wine references but I did learn a few things about how wine is made and found it interesting.

This book is set in Portugal during the 1800's and is centered around a plague that attacked vineyards during that time. Mrs. Julia Costa is one of those vineyard owners, after being left a widow and a single mother. Women were not looked highly upon as business owners during this time so she faced increased scrutiny due to her standing in life, as well as her occupation.

Griffin Maxwell is an Englishman who is really good at keeping books. When his business partner suggests that he checks out this particular vineyard, Griffin obliges. The findings he uncovers will be the end of someone in this story though!

Julia and Griffin eventually meet and the sparks pretty much start flying right away, however very subdued. I love how the author allowed the character development to take place before the romance really heated up. There's a few extra players involved too...so scandalous! ;) In the end, can different cultures comingle and create something more beautiful than the vines themselves or will dedication to culture win out?

I'm excited to read the next book in this series, although I already don't like a particular character and the way he behaved in this one. We'll see if he will have any redeeming qualities about him!

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A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow #1) by Cheryl Wright

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great read for a rainy afternoon!! 

Noah was angry when he found out in order to receive his inheritance, he had to marry....and quickly!

Mary is upset that she can't keep up her vegetable garden because her father keeps giving all the carrots to the pigs. Doesn't he care for her more than that? 

So, what are two desperate people to do who don't even know each other? Get married, of course! 

Will Mary stay past the contracted marriage date or will Noah ask her to leave before the year is even up? 

This is a sweet story of a contractual marriage and how it all worked out. I didn't realize this was a novella until it was over and I found myself wanting to know even more about the characters. I did enjoy this short read and would highly recommend it! 

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To Whisper Her Name (Belle Meade Plantation #1) by Tamera Alexander

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was so good that I was sad to see this story come to an end!! It's not often that I read and really savor a book because the storyline is one that I deeply enjoy. 

Ridley is looking for someplace to land after fighting in the war. He stumbles upon Belle Meade and recognizes a familiar face there. He spends some time with Uncle Bob and ultimately, ends up with a job. He doesn't plan to stay long, just long enough to make the money he needs to move out west. The lessons he learns from Uncle Bob are lifelong though and their friendship runs deep. 

Olivia is a newly widowed young lady who doesn't have anywhere to turn except to accept the offer from Aunt Elizabeth to come live with her at Belle Meade. If only the General was as accepting of her she might have been able to secure better employment prior to coming and prove her worth to the only people who will accept her after the shame her late husband brought upon her. 

This book is full of a very sweet romance, some not so nice romances, horses, a sprawling plantation, and lots of shenanigans. I fell in love with Olivia's character but my favorite character in this story is Rachel. I think behind the scenes she might have had a lot to do with how the characters interacted and the story played out. Uncle Bob is another big favorite of mine. I just never knew what he might do in his training with Ridley.

I look forward to reading the next book in this series!! 

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More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer

More Than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Karen Witemeyer has been a favorite of mine for quite some time how. She hasn't disappointed in this novel either!

Abby owns a bakery and has run it since her father fell ill and subsequently passed away. With the help of her sister, Rosalind, Abby and Taste of Heaven are a hit in town. Well, that is until the day that an outdated city ordinance is resurrected that states that businesses are not to be run by female business owners. Not one to back to down to anyone, Abby develops a plan.

Zach Hamilton has had his share of woes. He's grown up on the streets and even took in two kids and raised them after a tragic situation. Zach works for Reuben at the local lumbar mill and has no plans of ever settling down. He's running from his past and not wanting to have anymore responsibilities than he currently has.

Every morning at breakfast, Abby has the pleasure of serving the town her famous hot breads, other sweets, and coffee. Zach comes in every day. Could he help her save her bakery? If not him, maybe the church deacon or the mama's boy would be willing to sign her business agreement?

Never underestimate the power of a woman on a mission as she will succeed. Abby succeeds in her quest for a partner but he can win his mission as well?

I loved this book and found it hard to put down! There is a lot of sensuality with Abby and her chosen as they go from business arrangement to falling in love. It's all very sweet and satisfying to see how together, they win may battles that they are faced with. I do hope that this story will continue as I feel that it easily might. I'd love to know more about Nate and Ida Mae!!

Thank you for another great read, Karen!

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A Love So True by Melissa Jagears

A Love So True by Melissa Jagears
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It's 1908 and the setting is in Southeast Kansas. David Kingsman just wants to make his father proud. It's all he's ever wanted in life...to have his father say, "Well done, son!" at the end of a business deal. The glass factory is in need of something major...in the forms of a shut down and sale to the highest bidder. David struggles with this as he is in Teaville to assess the business in his father's portfolio. Is shutting down really the best answer?

Evelyn Wisely is a young, single woman with a servant's heart. She braves the red-light district of Teaville to rescue any woman who expresses an interest in leaving a soiled past for a much cleaner one. Evelyn also has a huge heart for the children in the orphanage that her family manages. Evelyn has no regard for herself or her future...and marriage is definitely not an option.

David is quite smitten when he first lays eyes on Evelyn but is very intrigued by her work in the red-light district of town. Whatever is a lady of her station doing in such desolate and dark areas? David can't seem to get Evelyn out his mind despite the denials of his advances. Will he be able to wait this journey out to win her heart?

This is the second book in the Teaville series. I did not realize this, nor was I affected by that news. I would like to go back and read the first book now, knowing that this is a series. If I were to choose a favorite character in this book, hands down it would be David. I admire his persistence, his patience, and the way in which he turned his circumstances into something much more positive. Reflecting back, I didn't realize just how giving he was, as the book really focused on the amount of giving that Evelyn exuded. David is the strongest developed character in this book and I found myself falling under his charm a time or two.

There is a portion of the book where the characters become very open about their faith and how they are going to deal with the situation at hand. There are tender moments between couples at various stages of relationships in this book. However, I would feel comfortable with my teenager reading this book.

I did have a difficult time getting into this book but I feel it was more of a matter of somethings I was going through personally when I first started this book. It did not pick up for me as quickly as I would have liked but the ending did seem to come quickly. The longer I read this, the more I did enjoy the story. Many other reviewers have had a different experience (Loving it all the way through) so again, I feel it might have been where I was in life when I started reading this book.

Many thanks to Bethany House Publishers and Melissa Jagears for providing a complimentary copy for me to review through Netgalley.com. What you have read here are my honest thoughts on this book.

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