Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan

 Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan is a fantastic story. Ali Morris’ life is not what she had planned. Her mom died two years ago, her husband left a year ago, and she is feels like things are very messy. Ethan is just visiting Beechwood for the summer. He thinks Ali is wonderful. What can be wrong with a summer romance?

Visiting Beechwood and making new friends was a highlight for me. I enjoyed the characters and town. Ali was such a relatable character that I enjoyed watching transform in the story. Ethan was a great guy. I loved his backstory and the life he had made for himself. The story shares about the risks we take in life and why they are so important. The themes of walking through grief, becoming who you were meant to be, and the value of loving someone resonated with me.

For me Summer Romance had all the things including a honest and transforming heroine, a hero who really listens, and romance that grows through the story. I am a huge fan of author Annabel Monaghan and this may be my new favorite of her books.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a review.

I am the (…wait for it…) national bestselling author of Same Time Next Summer and Nora Goes Off Script, published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons. Writing these love stories has probably been the most fun I’ve ever had. Pre-Nora, I wrote fiction for young adults and a column for not-so-young adults. Since you’ve gotten this far into my website, you probably knew that already.

I grew up in Los Angeles, and nearly every one of my relatives still lives in Southern California. I attended Duke University where I studied English. I have an MBA from The Wharton School of The University of Pennsylvania and a brief history as an investment banker. I also used to teach novel writing at the The Writing Institute at Sarah Lawrence College. I now live in the suburbs of New York City with my family, including a little dog who sheds.

For a Lifetime by Gabrielle Meyers

For a Lifetime by Gabrielle MeyerFor a Lifetime by Gabrielle Meyer is the third book in her Timeless Series. You could read For a Lifetime as a stand-alone, but there are references to the other two books. Grace and Hope are identical twin sisters who spend half of their lives in 1692 Salem, Massachusetts and the other half in 1912 New York City. They wake up each day to a different life and will have to choose which life to live by their 25th birthday. So, do they stay together, follow their heart, or choose a life based on conviction?

This was such an exciting read. I enjoyed watching Hope and Grace transform into wonderful women. I felt their struggles and rejoiced in their victories. I was fascinated with their lives as pilots and reporters in 1912. Learning more about the 1692 Salem Witch Trials was very informative, but also very heart-breaking. The story had sweet romance and I was fascinated by what it would be like to love someone when your twin does as well. The themes of God’s sovereignty, trusting, and friendship resonated deeply with me.

I found For A Lifetime For A Lifetime filled with engaging characters, interesting settings, and beautiful themes of faith. I was so sad when the story ended, but cannot wait until book four publishes in fall of 2024. This is an incredible series! I highly recommend.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

Gabrielle lives on the banks of the Upper Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As an employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she fell in love with the rich history of her state and enjoys writing historical and contemporary novels inspired by real people, places, and events. The river is a constant source of inspiration for Gabrielle, and if you look closely, you will find a river in each of her stories.

When Gabrielle is not writing, you might find her homeschooling her children, cheering them on at sporting and theatrical events, or hosting a gathering at her home with family and friends.

Every Time We Say Goodbye by Natalie Jenner

 

Every Time We Say Goodbye by Natalie Jenner is a stand alone novel, but references her previous novels. I have not read her previous novels, but was easily able to follow. Vivien has moved to Italy to work as a script doctor in Rome at Cinecitta Studios in 1955. The play she just wrote and produced did not do well on the London stage, and she needs a fresh start. We walk with her during her time in Italy as she navigates the movie industry, tries to find out what really happened to her deceased fiancé during WWII, and explores who is she is.  

The setting of Rome, Italy post WWII was fascinating. The book weaves in themes of redemption, grief, and deciding who to love. I found myself wishing I could visit Vivien and walk the streets of Italy with her. There were many charters with different subplots that kept my interest. The story is in dual time periods that flow seamlessly.

In Every Time We Say Goodbye by Natalie Jenner, we follow Vivian on a journey of self-discovery in this beautifully written complex story with incredible historical details and endearing characters. I highly recommend.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

NATALIE JENNER is the author of the instant international bestseller The Jane Austen Society and Bloomsbury Girls. A Goodreads Choice Award runner-up for historical fiction and finalist for best debut novel, The Jane Austen Society was a USA Today and #1 national bestseller and has been sold for translation in twenty countries. Born in England and raised in Canada, Natalie has been a corporate lawyer, career coach and, most recently, an independent bookstore owner in Oakville, Ontario, where she lives with her family and two rescue dogs. Visit her website to learn more.

A Sham Betrothal by Jennie Goutet

A Sham Betrothal: Georgians in Paris by Jennie Goutet is a delightful book that made my week. Sophie Twisden has come to Paris with her grandmother and Sheldon Cholmeley’s protection. But, Sophie does not really want his protection and when Basile de Gervain offers a solution through a sham proposal that benefits them both she accepts. But what happens when you decide that you do not want it to be a sham anymore?

Oh là là ! This was a true delight with romance, great banter, Paris, and a worthy hero! The characters were endearing and I fell in love with Sophie and Basile. The setting of Paris, France in the 1790’s was enchanting, and the historical details made the story come to life. It was so much fun to read and I thoroughly enjoyed.

The author did a great job with this clean romance and in my mind, it sparkled with fabulous characters, a beautiful setting and wonderful historical details. A Sham Betrothal should be added to your TBR so your future self will thank you! I highly recommend.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

Jennie Goutet is the best-selling author of twelve Regency romances, including the Clavering Chronicles, Memorable Proposals, and Daughters of the Gentry series. Her books have received first place in historical romance for the New England Reader’s Choice Awards and have hit the number one spot in Regency Romance on Amazon. They have been featured on BookBub and Hoopla, and are translated into five languages.

Jennie is an American-born Anglophile who lives with her French husband and their three children in a small town outside of Paris. Her imagination resides in Regency England, where her best-selling proper Regency romances are set. You can learn more about Jennie’s books and sign up for her newsletter on her author website: jenniegoutet.com or purchase her books at jenniegoutetbooks.com.

 

To Catch a Coronet by Grace Hitchcock

A Coronet is another type of crown, but is reserved for the lower ranks of nobility like Marquesses and Marchionesses, Earls and Countesses, Barons and Baronesses, and some Lords and Ladys.

To Catch a Coronet by Grace Hitchcock is first in her The Best Laid Plans series and a perfect Regency romance. Muriel Beau was a baker who is now a heiress and trying to fit into her new world. She has a way of causing chaos wherever she goes. When she is shunned after her very public proposal, she visits friends in London to start again. Captain Erik Draycott has been a privateer for many years, is trying to catch a spay, and is the heir to the Draycott Castle and the earldom. He is trying to figure out a mystery, and soon they are both caught in a web much bigger than either of them could imagine.

I was absolutely enchanted by this story. Muriel is a kind, funny and bold character who I adored and was rooting for her to have a happy ending. Captain Draycott is full of charm, courage, and a dash of intrigue. Together their humor, banter, and chemistry were a delight to read. I enjoyed meeting Muriel’s friends who I cannot wait to learn more about. I was kept guessing on who was the Napoleonic spy right up to the end. Such a satisfying read!

This fast moving story with great banter, delightful romance, and some mystery held my interest as I read the story in one day! This will be one of my favorite Regency stories this year! I highly recommend To Catch a Coronet by Grace Hitchcock.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

Grace Hitchcock is the author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives near New Orleans with her husband, Dakota, sons and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com.

 

Cruise (Shipped) by Savannah Scott

Cruise (Shipped) by Savannah Scott is a fabulous addition to the Getting Shippped series. Gabby is an event planner in Boston and best friends with Mallory from Bordeaux, OH. She has a big fun family originally from Puerto Rico. Brooks originally from Cincinnati, OH is a firefighter in Bordeaux. The two meet again on Bill and Memaw’s wedding cruise. But they live so far apart! How will this work?

I thoroughly enjoyed this story and adored Gabriela and Brooks. #brooksandgabby Gabby and Brooks had great banter, chemistry, adventure and romance. Gabriela was full of sass, kindness, and I truly wanted her to be my best friend. Brooks was the sensitive contemplative delightful hero that you just can’t help falling in love with! The setting of Bordeaux and the cruise ship made for a great story with adventures on and off the boat. The residents of Bordeaux know how to have a good time and to sing the OHIO song even miles from home. O H I O

Cruise (Shipped) was truly a heartfelt, funny, and beautiful sweet romance. #brooksandgabbyforever. I highly recommend Cruise (Shipped) by Savanah Scott!

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

I listened to the story and read the book. The audio is fantastic!! I highly recommend listening.  

I’m Savannah Scott – the girl behind the Getting Shipped! series, otherwise known as the founder of the town of Bordeaux, Ohio.

LIFE AROUND THE SCOTT HOME
I’ve been married to my surfer husband for over 25 years. He has a heart of gold. In our relationship, I’m like the kite, and he’s the steady hand holding the string.
I’ve spent many years as the “den mom” in my own private Boy Scout troop … mom to two boys, one no longer living at home, and a whole slew of boys in our neighborhood too.

We also have a labradoodle puppy named Bella … she likes to eat shoes, tug the dishtowel off the stove, and chase squeaky balls. Sometimes she chills out and then we call her Bella-Snugarella because she flops against you like a living teddy bear. That’s my favorite.

Encouraging other moms is my jam. I’ve written several non-fiction books for women (under Patty H Scott), and I have a website dedicated to pouring out into mama hearts at slowdownmama.com.

When I’m not writing, I’m either reading, dancing zumba, or going on a walk or out to coffee with friends. I love road trips, especially when there’s adventure in the mix.

The Roads We Follow by Nicole Deese

The Roads We Follow by Nicole Deese is part of her Fog Harbor series, but I believe it can be a stand-alone novel. Reagan Farrow is the youngest daughter of a country music legend, and is trying to find her place in the family. Her dream is to write books and be her own person. Her mom decides they all need to take a bus trip to her next concert, and Micah Davenport is chosen to drive. He is trying to put the pieces together of his life through some old journals of his moms discovered on the renovated bus. So much can happen on a road trip.

This is my first Nicole Deese book, but it will not be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this richly woven love and redemptive story. The characters were so well developed that I felt like I was sitting on the bus with them. The mystery surrounding Micah’s mom and Raegan’s mom past made the story so interesting. I was reminded that everyone has a story and the importance of listening closely to discover it. I was sad when the story ended.

This beautifully written story was filled with sweet romance, beautiful redemptive themes, great settings and great adventures. The story touched my heart deeply and I look forward to reading more by the author. I highly recommend The Roads We Follow by Nicole Deese.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

Nicole Deese is a Christy and Carol Award-winning, bestselling author of hope-filled, humorous, and heartfelt contemporary romance novels. When she's not sorting out character arcs and story plots of her own, she can usually be found listening to an audiobook and multitasking at least four different chores at once. She’s a hoarder of sparkling water, a lover of long walks and even longer talks with friends, and a seeker of fun and adventure at all times. She lives in small-town, Idaho with her happily-ever-after hubby, two freakishly tall teenage sons, and one princess daughter with the heart of a warrior.

Mukoka Promise by Carolyn Miller

Muskoka Promise by Carolyn Miller is part of the Muskoka Shores series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. Anna Morely has wanted to find love for so long. She has watched her friends’ lives and has stepped back being a part of their world as it is just too hard. Tom Woodmore lost his fiancé and continues overworking as a police officer. When Tom meets Anna, he wonders if they could be more than friends.

I have greatly enjoyed the Muskoka series and have been waiting for Anna’s story. I loved watching her transformation and heart change. Tom is the hero that you love and want things to work out for. I enjoyed revisiting with the characters of Muskoka and catching up on their lives. When I read Carolyn’s Miller’s books, I learn more about God and more about myself.

 Muskoka Promise has fabulous romance, great banter, an interesting mystery, beautiful friendships, and characters I connected with. This is a beautiful story that you do not want to miss. I highly recommend.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a review.

Carolyn Miller is an inspirational romance author who lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia with her husband and four children.

A longtime lover of romance, especially that of LM Montgomery, and Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s Regency era, Carolyn loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. Carolyn's readers describe her books as heartfelt and realistic with relatable characters, woven with faith, hope and humour. She enjoys music, films, gardens, art, travel, ice hockey and food. Her bestselling, award-winning Regency and contemporary novels are available wherever good books are sold.

Sandcastle Inn by Irene Hannon

Sandcastle Inn by Irene Hannon is A Hope Harbor novel. Vienna Price comes to visit her mom in Hope Harbor after losing her job and questioning her life choices. Matt Quin comes to Hope Harbor to relax at his sister’s new B& B. Unfortunately, the B & B is not what either of them thought and now he needs to help her instead of relax. Meeting Vienna may be the answer that he needs.

This was a sweetly written story with appealing characters who made their way into my heart as they rebuilt the inn and rebuilt their lives. I loved watching Vienna and Matt change, grow and fall in love. The setting of Hope Harbor was beautiful. I enjoyed meeting the residents, and I wanted to visit the taco stand. Vienna’s mother Bev gently reminds us that it is never too late to parent well.

Sandcastle Inn by Irene Hannon is a beautiful story with characters that transform, a wonderful setting in a seaside town, and sweet romance. I highly recommend the story

I was given a copy and not required to write a positive review.

Irene Hannon is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than sixty-five contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. She is also a three-time winner of the RITA award—the “Oscar” of romance fiction—from Romance Writers of America and is a member of that organization’s elite Hall of Fame.

Her many other awards include National Readers’ Choice, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers’ Best, Carol, HOLT Medallion, and Reviewers’ Choice from RT Book Reviews magazine, which also honored her with a Career Achievement award for her entire body of work. In addition, she is a two-­time Christy award finalist.

Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.

Irene, who holds a BA in psychology and an MA in journalism, juggled two careers for many years until she gave up her executive corporate communications position with a Fortune 500 company to write full-time.

When not writing, she loves to sing, travel, hike, garden, cook, spend time with family, and go on impromptu dates with her own romantic hero.

She and her husband make their home in Missouri.