Stand in for Love by Michele Ashman Bell-Romantic Comedy Book Review

 Book Synopsis

An unexpected wedding disaster leads to an unexpected love.

Serafina Russo’s best friend Britt is getting married in two weeks. But an unexpected death in the family takes the engaged couple out of the country to attend the funeral.
That leaves Sera, the timid maid-of-honor, and Axel Rodrigues, best man, famous baseball star, and NYC’s most eligible bachelor, to take care of last-minute wedding details and hopefully prevent their best friends’ wedding from becoming a disaster. While dealing with unexpected cancellations and catastrophes Sera discovers that Axel is not just famous and incredibly good-looking, he is also kind, helpful, and funny. Sera and Alex discover that when opposites attract, sparks fly, love ignites, and something wonderful happens.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Michele Ashman Bell (August 15, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 274 pages
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8985126716

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

Stand in for Love is a delightful romantic comedy that I really enjoyed. Serafina Russo and Axel Rodrigues take on the roles of Maid of Honor and Best Man, and need to make sure everything runs smoothly for their friends' wedding. With the engaged couple stuck out of the country, it's up to the shy Sera and the charming Axel to tackle all the last-minute details.

I loved Sera, who goes above and beyond to support her friend Britt. Axel also contributes a lot thanks to his connections and background. Sera tries her best not to get swept away by Axel's charm, but it's a tough battle. As things start going haywire, there are plenty of funny moments. If something could go wrong, it did—from the dress to the cake to the venue. Teaming up boosts Sera's confidence, and Axel discovers a side of life he didn’t know he was searching for.

This story blends humor, frustration, and heartwarming moments with sweet romance. I easily read it in one day because I was excited to find out what would happen next. Michele Ashman Bell serves up a fun, witty, and inspiring romantic comedy that’s hard to resist.

****Meet Author Michele Ashman Bell***

Michele Ashman Bell grew up in St. George, Utah. In fourth grade her

teacher wrote on her report card that she had a tendency to daydream

and would probably do well with creative writing. Her love for books

and learning about people and places has helped her make her teacher's

prediction come true. Michele is the author of many books and Christmas stories. She is married and is the mother of four children, and a grandma of ten. Aside from supporting her children in all of

their many activities, she loves to travel, do research for her

books and eat chocolate.

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Accidental Courtship with the Earl by Samantha Hastings-Regency Romance Book Review

 Book Synopsis

What happens when a grumpy earl meets a sunshine lady? Sparks are sure to fly in this lively Regency!

She’s falling for the earl…

When she’s already betrothed!

Mark, the Earl of Inverness, escapes to London to avoid his mother’s matchmaking, and the wounds of war that continue to haunt him. So, when a macaw flies into his garden, he’s intrigued by his new neighbor following behind…and the dazzling woman proves just the distraction he needs!

Lady Helen Stringham reluctantly agreed to a Season in exchange for becoming conveniently engaged to her childhood friend when she returns home. But after she encounters broodingly handsome Mark, who shares her passion for animals, she’s discovering what real attraction is… Just who should she be marrying?

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Harlequin Historical; Original edition (August 20, 2024)
• Series: The Stringham Family Series
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 272 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1335539727

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

The Stringham Family Series introduces a cast of interesting and unexpected characters. In "Accidental Courtship with the Earl," readers meet even more quirky main characters. Lady Helen finally gets her moment in the spotlight as she matures and prepares to take on the world. We’ve followed her older siblings in earlier books, and they make appearances here as well.

Mark, the Earl of Inverness, has returned from the war with a wounded spirit and missing a leg. He struggles with his scars, both physical and mental, and is convinced that no woman from high society would ever want him.

When Helen and Mark cross paths in a light-hearted moment, Lady Helen climbs over a fence to rescue her bird, capturing Mark’s attention—he thinks she looks like a Fairy Queen. Their shared struggles create a unique bond from the start. The humor shines as Helen navigates her unconventional escapades that challenge societal expectations for young women. She has a passion for snakes and nature, which she joyfully shares. While her family embraces her quirks, Mark feels alienated from his own family. As they spend more time together, their attraction deepens.

This novel focuses less on drama and more on the personal journeys of the characters. There are a few steamy moments, but nothing beyond that and the focus remains on the themes of hope and renewal throughout the story. Samantha Hastings has truly made the Stringham family one of my favorites.

****Meet Author Samantha Hastings****

Samantha Hastings has worked as a tennis instructor, janitor, basketball referee, adjunct college faculty, teen librarian, and now as an author. She has a BA in History from Brigham Young University, an MA in English from the University of Reading (in Berkshire, England), and a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of North Texas. She met her husband in a turkey sandwich line. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she spends most of her time reading, eating popcorn, and chasing her kids. For more information visit www.samanthahastings.com

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A Proper Facade By Esther Hatch-A Regency Romance Book Review

 Book Summary

Mercy Rothschild has always been granted an unusually long tether by her parents, who have never pushed her to marry until she’s ready. She assumes that when the right man comes along, she will marry for love. However, even her long-suffering parents have their limits. As she embarks on her third Season, they begin to pressure her to find a match. And the Duke of Harrington is the perfect candidate.

Nicholas Kendrick, Duke of Harrington, follows the rules of the ton meticulously. When he determines that Mercy is the ideal candidate for a wife, he marches dutifully toward her along the courtship path. Desperate to extricate herself from Harrington’s advances, Mercy concludes that there is only one course of action: she must push her intended into the arms of another woman. But when Mercy becomes acquainted with the man behind the proper facade, her plans come crashing down as she realizes that stiff and proper Harrington might be the very man she’s been waiting for. If only she hadn’t been so successful in her plot to thwart her chances with him.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Covenant Communications (August 20, 2024)
• Genre: Proper Scandals Series
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 248 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1524426474

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

Proper Scandals has been an enjoyable series. I was thrilled to see Nicholas Kendrick, the Duke of Harrington, get his own story in A Proper Scandal. Nicholas faces many pressures, including the need to find a wife. His plans for a proper courtship go off track when he meets Mercy Rothschild.

Mercy is young and eager to find true love like her parents had. She believes she must fall in love to marry, making her dream of True Love a challenge for Nicholas's courtship plans. She thinks he’s too old and formal, but her parents are eager for her to marry a Duke.

Watching Mercy lead the Duke on a wild chase was entertaining. While Nicholas had good intentions, Mercy was more focused on making him think about past relationships. She orchestrated some awkward situations with those previous loves, leaving Nicholas completely in the dark. There were moments when I wanted to send Mercy to her room for being so mischievous.

It was fun to see characters from earlier books return, providing support to Nicholas. As the barriers between him and Mercy began to crumble, the story grew more thrilling. The slow-building tension between Mercy and Nicholas erupted into exciting moments filled with dancing, chess games, and a library rendezvous that made me a little giddy. I won't be forgetting that scene for a while. With plenty of misunderstandings, clever schemes, and the eventual breakdown of their facades, they might just discover true love.

I'm sad the series has finished, but I know I’ll read these stories again. Esther Hatch knows how to craft a love story filled with tension, romance, and humor. The relationship between these two very different characters looking for love will keep you entertained throughout this sweet, clean Regency romance.

****Meet Author Esther Hatch****

Esther Hatch grew up on a cherry orchard in rural Utah. After high school, she alternated living in Russia to teach children English and attending Brigham Young University in order to get a degree in archaeology. She began writing when one of her favorite authors invited her to join a critique group. The only catch was she had to be a writer. Not one to be left out of an opportunity to socialize and try something new; she started on her first novel that week. Visit her at estherhatch.com.

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Wagering for a Wife: {Bridger Brothers Book Three} By Kate Condie-Western Romance Book Review

 Book Synopsis

He made a bet to keep her. She swore to stay away. Only one of them can be victorious.

He promised to find a wife.

Sam Bridger is determined to fulfill his mother’s dying wish and secure a bride to bring west...except he has yet to make a woman see him as more than a handsome face. When his brother proposes a bet over one of the few single women in the company—a stowaway in their wagons—Sam cannot resist trying to earn the fiery woman's affection, even if losing the wager means he must stay away for good.

She vowed to be invisible.

Petra Anderson has received more marriage proposals than any other woman in the county, earning her the title of Runaway Bride. With her reputation in shambles, she and her sister head west with one goal: ensure her sister gets the husband she so dearly desires. But if avoiding bachelors was difficult back home, it’s impossible out west, where men are clamoring for wives with every turn of the wagon wheels.

The trail does not play by a wager’s rules.

When Sam’s attempts to win Petra’s heart are unsuccessful, he must push harder or risk losing her when the bet expires. If Petra cannot convince Sam she’s wrong for him, she could lose her sister’s trust forever.

Return to the trail with Wagering for a Wife, a standalone sweet historical western romance. It can be read alone, or as book 3 in the Bridger Brothers series.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (August 17, 2024)
• Series: Bridger Brother
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 306 pages
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8336118247

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

Wagering For A Wife is the third book in Kate Condie's Bridger Brothers series, a sweet romance set in the West. After enjoying the second book, I was eager to dive into this one.

The Bridger brothers’ mother had one last wish: she wanted all six of her sons to marry as they trekked toward Oregon.

This story centers on Sam, who has a lot on his plate, including looking after his brother Nate, a heavy drinker. The brothers make a bet to see who can win the heart of a girl named Petra. Petra and her sister are stowaways with the wagon train, but things get complicated when Petra overhears their wager. Petra is determined to find a husband for her sister Demi, who bears scars from childhood. She is focused solely on this goal and wants nothing to do with anyone pursuing her. 

The story highlights Petra's dedication to her sister while also showcasing Sam's unexpected feelings for her. Their dynamic reflects the "enemies to lovers" trope. After a series of mishaps, they end up confined to a wagon together for several days, filled with a lot of banter. The struggles of young love are vividly portrayed as neither wants to acknowledge their growing attraction. Meanwhile, Demi and another brother, Alex, also develop a romance in the background.

This slow-burn romance emphasizes the importance of building trust before love can flourish. Readers will appreciate how the Bridger brothers, along with Petra and Demi, support one another through thick and thin. Sam has become my favorite Bridger brother, especially after a standout kiss that leaves you wanting more. This sweet romance beautifully illustrates themes of family loyalty, bravery in difficult times, and following one’s heart toward new possibilities. Kate Condie shines in writing these endearing Western romances.

****Meet Author Kate Condie****

Kate Condie is a speed talker from Oregon. Reading has been part of her life since childhood, where she devoured everything from mysteries, to classics, to autobiographies—and of course, romance. At first, her writing was purely in journal format as she thought writing novels was for the lucky ones. She lives in Utah and spends her days surrounded by mountains with her favorite hunk, their four children and her laptop. In her free time she reads, tries to learn a host of new instruments, binge watches anything by BBC or tries to keep up with Lafayette as she sings the Hamilton soundtrack.

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So True a Love: A Proper Romance By Joanna Barker-Regency Romance Review and Giveaway

 

Book Synopsis

As the daughter of a renowned actress, Verity Travers is a privileged lady of high society —and the last woman one would suspect of working as a private investigator. But after one case nearly costs her everything, she makes the hard decision to hang up her hat and live the uninspiring life of a gentlewoman. However, when she and her dearest friend become victims of a harrowing armed robbery, Verity finds herself swept back into the clandestine world of mystery and crime as she seeks to bring the thief to justice. There’s just one complication: the persistent and dashingly handsome Bow Street Runner Nathaniel Denning, who always seems to cross her path.

Verity is confident she could accomplish her work quickly if only Nathaniel would stay out of her way. While she appreciates his keen mind and quick wit on a case, his interference is muddling her progress—and her heart. Focusing on the task at hand becomes more and more difficult as she constantly bumps into Nathaniel, who is determined to keep her out of danger.

When the two rival investigators learn they are both pursuing the same cunning criminal, they must figure out how to navigate the delicate dance of cooperation amid a backdrop of increasing peril and an irresistible passion that sets their hearts ablaze.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Shadow Mountain (September 3, 2024)
• Genre: Regency Romance
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 256 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1639932941

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

• 
  
  
  

My Review

"So True a Love" by Joanna Barker is a captivating Regency romantic suspense novel. I was thrilled to discover that the story revolves around Verity Travers, a character I adored in the first book, "A Heart Worth Stealing." From the very first page, this book grabbed my attention and kept me on the edge of my seat. It’s packed with tension, mystery, and witty exchanges, along with plenty of action and suspense. I honestly didn't see any of the twists coming, as the mystery was so skillfully crafted that it had me guessing throughout.

Verity is a lovable character with her cleverness and independent spirit, and Nathaniel, the charming Bow Street Runner, is equally captivating. His chivalrous nature earns him the nickname "Sir Chivalry." Their romance unfolds as a rivals-to-lovers story, with sweet moments and strong chemistry perfectly woven into the mystery and crime elements of the plot. They truly make a great team and balance each other out wonderfully.

You can read this book on its own, but I highly recommend starting with "A Heart Worth Stealing", where readers fall in love with Verity's brother Jack and Ginny's story. 

This book is definitely a must-read for fans of closed-door historical romance! It's an exciting page-turner that you won't want to miss.

      ****Meet Author Joanna Barker****

Joanna Barker firmly believes that romance makes everything better, which is why she has fallen in love with writing Regency romances. When she’s not typing away on her next book, you’ll find her listening to podcasts, eating her secret stash of chocolate, or adding things to her Amazon cart. She thinks being an author is the second-best job in the world—right after being a mom. She is just a little crazy about her husband and three wild-but-lovable kids.

Enter the Giveaway on Instagram!!

{https://www.instagram.com/sheilasbookreviewer/}

Giveaway – (1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card.

TO ENTER

⇒ LIKE, SAVE, and SHARE this post

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⇒ VISIT each hosted post of this tour for more entries. Schedule at @justreadtours. (US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Instagram is not affiliated with nor responsible for this giveaway. Giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on September 9, 2024.)

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The Lady Glass: An Enchanted Regency Romance By Anneka R. Walker-Regency Romance Book Review

 Book Synopsis

Theresia Dvorak has nothing left of her parents—nothing save her dowry, a priceless crystal vase stolen and sold by her own stepmother. Theresia will do anything to secure what is rightfully hers—even assume a false identity and steal her future back. When she gains entrance to a house party and has a memorable run-in with the handsome navel captain Rolland Reese, her mission is compromised. She swore never to trust an Englishman again, but when he makes a daring proposal she cannot refuse, she must work side by side with him if either of them is to achieve their aim.

Rolland is stunned when his homecoming from the war takes a decidedly deadly turn. The quickest solution is to throw a house party and invite all the suspects. With the stakes incredibly high, Rolland must root out the killer before they turn their sights to the next potential victim: his own father. The mysterious Theresia is undoubtedly the most suspicious of his guests, but against all odds, he finds himself risking everything to protect her. As Rolland unravels a tangle of clues, he faces the greatest threats of all: a heart of fire and a future as fragile as glass.

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Covenant Communications (July 9, 2024)
• Series: Book 3 of 3: Enchanted Regency Romance
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 288 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1524425230

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

Who doesn't love a fairy tale? Fairy tales have a special charm, and The Lady Glass offers a fresh take on the classic Cinderella story, set in the Regency era. This is the third book in the Enchanted Regency Romance series, blending romance with a touch of mystery.

The plot centers around Theresia Dvorak, the daughter of a skilled glassmaker. Her late father left her a beautiful crystal vase as a dowry, but her stepmother takes it and sells it. Determined to retrieve her treasured vase, Theresia uses her violin talent to gain entry to a ball and plans her search from there.

Meanwhile, Rolland Reese serves as a Naval Captain on a secret mission to uncover a potential murderer and traitor to England. When Theresia and Rolland cross paths repeatedly, their chemistry is undeniable, leading to amusing and awkward situations.

This novel captivates with its intriguing mystery, engaging dialogue, a strong heroine, and a protective hero. The Lady Glass is an enchanting tale filled with unexpected twists, delightful nods to Cinderella, and a romantic mystery that will keep you captivated from start to finish.

****Meet Author Anneka R. Walker****

Anneka R. Walker is a best-selling author of historical and contemporary romance. With humor and an abundance of heart, she crafts uplifting stories you won't soon forget. She is the winner of the Swoony Award, the LDSPMA Praiseworthy Award, and various chapter contests. Her books have received praise from Publishers Weekly, Historical Novel Society, Midwest Book Review, and Readers Favorite. She graduated from Brigham Young University-Idaho with a Bachelor's degree in English and history and hopes to never stop learning. She is a blessed wife, proud mother of five, lover of Jesus, connoisseur of chocolate, and believer in happy endings.

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The Healing Garden by Heather B. Moore-Romance Book Review

 

Book Synopsis

Spring 1981

Eighty-three year old Sam Davis has always wondered what happened to his high-school sweetheart. But instead of finding the means to track her down, he’s stuck in an assisted living center, reliant on others around him. His grandson, Wyatt, questions Sam’s memories, and it seems that he’ll never find the answers he’s been searching for.

Anita Gifford, single mom in her mid-30s, is reluctant to spend community service hours at the assisted living center in their town. But her fourteen-year-old daughter Carly has to work off her school suspension. So instead of a relaxing weekend after a long week of work, Anita takes Carly to the center where they meet Mr. Davis. An unexpected bond forms between the teenager and elderly man, one that might bring healing to the both families, past and present.

THE HEALING SERIES:
The Healing Summer
The Healing Garden

Book Details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Mirror Press (April 4, 2024)
• Genre: Small Town Romance
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 270 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1952611431

• ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****

My Review

The Healing Garden tells a touching story filled with hope, dreams, and new beginnings. It explores themes of past relationships, personal sacrifices, and the power of forgiveness.

Anita is a single mother and faces a turning point when her daughter Carly gets suspended from school because of her so-called friends. To make amends, Carly does community service at an assisted living center, where both of them meet Sam Davis. An unexpected friendship blossoms between Sam, an elderly man, and Carly, who is just fourteen. This connection is one of my highlights of the story.

It is set in 1981, a period that holds many fun memories for me. The story also includes chapters that transport readers back to 1923, when Sam was with his high school sweetheart, Susan. Years later, in his 80s, Sam receives a postcard from Susan. With his wife gone and his grandson Wyatt doubting his memories, Sam's journey unfolds. Without revealing too much, the story weaves several events together that unite friends and family. There are moments of sweet romance and healing for many characters, making this novel both heartwarming and relatable, making The Healing Garden a genuinely uplifting read.

****Meet Author Heather B. Moore****

Heather B. Moore is a USA Today bestselling author of more than ninety publications. Heather writes primarily historical and #herstory fiction about the humanity and heroism of the everyday person. Publishing in a breadth of genres, Heather dives into the hearts and souls of her characters, meshing her love of research with her love of storytelling.

Her ancient era historicals and thrillers are written under the pen name H.B. Moore. She writes historical women's fiction, romance, and inspirational non-fiction under Heather B. Moore, and . . . speculative fiction under Jane Redd. This can all be confusing, so her kids just call her Mom. Heather attended Cairo American College in Egypt and the Anglican School of Jerusalem in Israel. Despite failing her high school AP English exam, Heather persevered and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in something other than English.

Please join Heather's email list at HBMoore

Website: HBMoore

X: heatherbmoore

Instagram: @authorhbmoore

Facebook: Heather B. Moore All About Books

And yes, the Blog still lives: MyWritersLair

Literary honors: 2020 Goodreads Choice Award Semi-Finalist, Foreword 2020 INDIES Finalist, ALA Best New Books - September 2020, 6-time Best of State Recipient for Best in Literary Arts, 2019 Maggie Award Winner, 6-time Whitney Award Winner, and 2-time Golden Quill Award Winner.

Heather is represented by Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret.

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