Book Review: One by One by David Bednar

In the Non-Fiction Corner

by Lauren B.

Sometimes I will get a book sent to me to review that I didn’t know is the exact book I needed to read, but it is. This week, One by One by David A. Bednar was that book for me. I believe that anyone who is going to serve in the church needs to read this book. It focuses on how to lead, serve, and love. The mission of the church isn’t programs, it is people and David A. Bednar is very straightforward as he challenges us to seek out the one.

I was so excited when I started the book because Elder Bednar was using personal examples from his life since being called as an apostle. He talked about where he has seen the Lord work in ones, and when he was called on an assignment just to meet one person. This is most prominent in the first and last chapter, and it was my favorite part of the book. It helped me see that every calling or assignment the Lord gives isn’t so we can teach a congregation or plan an activity. We are put in to these positions to meet many “ones” and increase our human orbit to impact the lives of others and in turn, be changed. I love the real world examples, the stories of people around the world who are looked out for by a loving Heavenly Father. But, He does not love a choice few more than others. He is in the details of all our lives and the every soul is great to Him.

Another thing that Elder Bednar did that made this book great was all the scriptural examples. The sheer number of examples he found from Christ’s life where the Savior worked one on one is very impressive. It helps the reader to understand that this isn’t Elder Bednar’s idea, but the Savior ministered in the very same way. To follow Him, we need to find the one.

Before I read the last chapter, I loved the book but I was not sure what to do with the information. Yes, I knew that the Lord loves one by one and that’s how we should work in the church, but what does that mean? It became clear to me as I continued reading that the Lord just wants us to realize our relationships and acquaintances aren’t by accident. He put us where we are for a reason. As we serve and help others, we will more and more find that reason. So don’t put off a prompting. Go visit that lady from your ward. Call that friend you haven’t seen in a while. Send a text message to your child. It’s the little things that help us minister one by one.

Here's the back copy:

The Lord tells us that “the worth of souls is great” in His sight (Doctrine and Covenants 18:10). But how can we know that is true? How can we gain a greater sense of the worth of every soul—including our own?

In his latest book, Elder David A. Bednar offers a compelling look at a pattern the Lord uses to bless His people: He works with us on an individual basis, one by one. Demonstrating that pattern as it occurs throughout the scriptures, in the lives of many Church leaders, and in his own ministry, Elder Bednar opens our hearts to the Lord's love for us. He teaches that by ministering as the Savior does, one by one, we can be more powerful instruments in His hands to do His work.

From a “guided tour” through scriptural illustrations to an array of touching personal accounts, this important new book offers hope and guidance for anyone who has ever wondered, “Do I matter to the Lord?”

You can order your copy of the book here

What I'm Reading Wednesday

I read Heather Moore's novella, The Duke's Brother, a while back in the All Regency Collection, but now that it's out as a single, I wanted to reread it. It was just as good as I remembered! If you haven't read it, it's the perfect length for an afternoon read and has just enough romance to make you close the book with a happy sigh.

You can download your copy for only $1.99 here

Here's the back copy:

Mr. Gregory Clark is having an awful day, and it only gets worse when he’s ran over by … a woman. Mabel Russell reluctantly visits her sister in London for the Season, even though she’d rather stay in the country cataloging insects and aphids. When she runs into Mr. Clark, quite literally, she’s afraid to show any interest, especially since he’s a member of the dreaded Ton. But getting to know Mr. Clark becomes an unexpected delight.

Last Day To Enter To Win!

Today is the last day to enter to win a $10 Amazon gift card and a print copy of my romance, Love's Broken Road!

(You saw the cover to the next book in that series yesterday. Don't they look pretty together? I love it!)

Anyway, I really want to announce your name as a winner in this giveaway, so be sure to enter before it's over!

Click here 

It's Cover Reveal Day For My New Novel!

It's cover reveal day! I'm so excited to show you all the cover of my new novel, Love's Journey Home, that comes out in October! 

*drum roll*

I love it and can't wait to share this story with you!

Here's a little teaser about it: 

Olivia Dalton has a reputation in the DA’s office---tough, thorough, and fierce when she’s closing a case. Those skills are essential in the courtroom, but not in the relationship department---until Mick Donovan crosses her path. Everyone thinks he's a player, but when an unexpected situation arises, she glimpses an honorable man instead. Olivia is drawn to him, but he pushes her away, unable to shake the past that still haunts him. Can he drop his guard long enough to let her in and take a chance at love?

*happy dance* 

What do you think?

Freebie Friday!

Today's Freebie Friday is a culinary mystery by Heather Justesen called Brownies and Betrayal! I really enjoyed this one.

Here's the back copy:

Pastry chef Tess Crawford thought moving from Chicago to quiet Silver Springs, Arizona would simplify her life. That was before she found the body of a woman with whom she had traded heated words the previous night, left her fingerprints on the murder weapon, and came under attack for trying to clear her name. When her cheating ex-fiance shows up, intent on convincing her to come back to work for him, Tess—armed with an extra batch of éclairs—decides to take control and solve the mystery herself, with the help of friends and frenemies alike.

But will that be enough to save her when she gets too close and the killer decides it’s safer to get her out of the way?

You can download your free Kindle copy here

A Writing Time Capsule

photo credit: suzyhazelwood DSC03545-05 via photopin (license)

My first grader had an assignment this week to put together a time capsule that they will open at the end of first grade. They've been putting things in like handwriting samples, letters from parents, a treat, an information sheet about all their favorite things, and a ribbon to show how tall they currently are.

As I was helping him put it together, I was thinking about this in regards to my books. Each one of my books is like a tiny time capsule into my life at the time. My very first book has each one of my family members' name in it--all of my favorite things! It also included a lot of moments that really happened, like a little peek into my life at the time that shows where my growth as a writer was. A real treat for me.

As I look back sixteen books later, my writing style has changed. My approach to outlining and dialogue and craft has grown, so if I had a ribbon from my first book to my last one, it would show that. Some writers are embarrassed by their first books, but I love mine. It's just a snapshot of my writing life and I'm proud of where I've been and how far I've come. It's like a little letter of confidence from my beginning writer self to now.

It's hard to believe that my first book was published in 2004. It doesn't seem that long ago. But I've learned so much, met so many amazing people and mentors, and been changed by the stories that I've researched and told. My children have grown up seeing that their mom had goals and dreams and she worked hard to accomplish them. I love that. I want them to know that we can all make time to develop our talents, no matter what stage of life you're in. There were so many times when it was hard, when a review wasn't great, when I had thirty minutes a day to write while I juggled my family life, or when I was scribbling in a notebook while I waited for carpool just so I could get in a tiny bit of writing.

But it was all worth it.

It's a blessing to be able to do what I love. And even more of a blessing to see how its affected my life for good.

It makes me look forward to the future and what's in store!

The Last Romance Awareness Month Giveaway!

This has been such a fun month to read new romance authors. And I loved giving away copies of some of my favorite books in the Proper Romance line!

Today I'm giving away a print copy of my romance, Love's Broken Road and a $10 Amazon gift card. This story is about two wounded souls who have a second chance at love. (And the next book in the series comes out in October!)

Be sure to scroll down and enter to win!

Here's the back copy:

After surviving an abusive marriage, Victoria Newel needs a clean slate for herself and her son. Taking a job as a math teacher, she moves across the country to the small town of Lincoln, Utah, where no one knows her and she can start over. However, her new colleague, Drew Dalton, offers her friendship and maybe something more. But has her heart healed enough that she could trust again?

Drew Dalton lost his wife to cancer years ago and he locked his heart away, throwing himself into his teaching job. But when Victoria Newel starts working at the high school, she awakens something in him that he never thought he’d feel again. Her gentle nature and quiet strength draws him to her, but it’s obvious she’s hiding something in her past from him. Can he open his heart to a woman who harbors so many secrets of her own?

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Fresh From Heaven

photo credit: callocx The Touch via photopin (license)

My grandson was born yesterday. It sounds so cliche, but as I sat there holding this precious sweet boy, it just reminded me of the miracle our lives truly are. How amazing it is to have someone fresh from heaven in your arms, looking at you as if they know you and love you already.

The thing that melted my heart, though, was watching my son hold his own son. It doesn't seem that long ago that I was holding him in my arms, worried if I'd be a good mother to him. He was my firstborn and I was so unsure about doing everything right. But we learned together.

He was my buddy, my little boy who loved to laugh and rarely cried. Always my little shadow who loved to play cars with me and Legos and go swimming and for walks around the block. That little shadow quickly outgrew mine, though, and I've watched him grow into a thoughtful and kind man, who is now a husband and father of two little boys. I can hardly believe it. When all those older mothers told me time goes so fast I didn't believe them. But it really does.

It's these eternal moments that make me look back, my heart overflowing with love on what an incredible blessing parenthood is and the even greater joy of being a grandparent.

There really isn't anything better.

Book Review

First of all, our winner of the print copy of The Secret of the India Orchid, by Nancy Campbell Allen is

*drum roll*

Erin Kasper!

Thank you to all who participated. I will be contacting Erin about claiming her prize. Don't forget to check back for the new drawing!

If you love the Timeless Romance anthologies like I do, you will really enjoy this one. Summer Holiday, with three stories from Nancy Campbell Allen, Sarah Eden, and Annette Lyon, will kick off your back to school days with just the right amount of wit, humor, and romance.

I loved Nancy Campbell Allen's story of Tessa Baker who is qualified and prepared to take on a supervisory position at a department store, but because she is a woman, she is forced to do a silly scavenger hunt to "earn" it. When an Italian conte, David Bellini, enters the picture, the scavenger hunt gets really interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed the interactions between Tessa and David and how, even though this was a novella, I still got a wonderful romance with more depth than I was expecting!

The second book by Sarah Eden had so much angst in it, I could hard turn the pages fast enough to see if they got their second chance at love! Carina and Grant are sweethearts, but he's forced to go to the city to establish himself in business and support their future family. But when they drift apart and Carina's parents want her to accept the suit of Mr. Baskon, can she truly give up on the love she shared with Grant? The characters are so well-drawn for this emotional story that readers will feel like they are experiencing it right along with them!

The last story by Annette Lyon is a love story between two servants, Sarah and Jacob. They have been writing letters to each other and their feelings are deep and mutual, but when they are finally in a place where they might actually court face-to-face, Jacob has some secrets that could destroy their budding romance. Not many stories are set around the servants, so I really liked this fresh take on the era and how difficult it was for servants to have a life beyond their job.

This was a quick-read, but all the stories were still a perfect length with everything a story needs to draw a reader in, and they all will put a smile on your face!

You can download your Kindle copy here

Here's the back copy:

BREAKFAST AT SOMMERPOOL’S by Nancy Campbell Allen:
As Tessa Baker competes for the supervisor promotion at Sommerpool Department and Mercantile, she’s faced with a ridiculous list of tasks to complete in order to “win” the job. Tessa would love to be the first female supervisor ever to work at the Sommerpool, but her competitor is cheating at every turn. Discouraged, Tessa agrees to let David Bellini, a family friend and Italian Conte who is new in town, help her. When she discovers that he’s the new owner of Sommerpool’s, but wants to evaluate the employees unobserved, Tessa has mixed feelings. She soon realizes that she’s falling for David, but what chance does a working-class woman like her have with an Italian Conte? And would falling in love with the store’s owner mean giving up her dreams of a groundbreaking career?

HOWEVER LONG THE WAIT by Sarah M. Eden:
Carina Herrick says goodbye to the man she hopes to marry, knowing their separation will be temporary. Grant Ambrose is off to follow his dream and become established in business so that he can provide for Carina and a life together. He promises to write; she promises to return his letters. Yet, only a few months pass and already their letters become shorter and fewer. Finally, Carina is forced to give up on Grant if only to protect her breaking heart. Her parents are dead set against her becoming a spinster and insist she accept the proposal of the odious Mr. Baskon. With no hope of another marriage proposal, Carina is forced to make a difficult decision, one that can lead her either to happiness or misery.

THE LAST SUMMER AT IVY HOUSE by Annette Lyon:
Every summer Sarah travels to Ivy House in London as one of the household servants to the Millington family. This summer, she’s particularly looking forward to seeing Jacob, a servant who lives at Ivy House year-round. They’ve been exchanging letters since the previous summer when their friendship deepened. But when Sarah arrives at Ivy House, Jacob seems more reserved around her and less forthcoming. Has she put greater meaning in their budding relationship than she should? When Sarah discovers that Jacob has a dark secret and wants her to give up her dreams in exchange for helping him, she’s not sure if she’s willing to make the sacrifice.

Freebie Friday

Today's Freebie Friday is an inspirational romance by Staci Stallings called To Protect and to Serve. She is a new to me author and I can't wait to read this one!

You can download your free Kindle copy here

Here's the back copy:

To save others' lives, they will risk their own...

Houston firefighter, Jeff Taylor is a fireman's fireman. He's not afraid of anything, and no situation is too dangerous to keep him on the sideline if lives are at stake.

Lisa Matheson runs a semi-successful ad agency that's on the brink of falling apart. Her employees are incompetent, and her schedule has become exhausting. When she takes on a client with a brilliant idea for a big conference, she thinks that maybe, finally this is her lucky break. However, the fire station wasn't what she had in mind for finding conference speakers. When she falls for a handsome but shy firefighter, it's possible that life might just be going her way for a change. The only problem is she can't control Jeff and the death wish he seems to have...

Regency Romance Deal!

I noticed today that Jennifer Moore's regency romance, Lady Helen Finds Her Song, is on sale for only .99 cents! Her books are rarely on sale, so I thought I'd pass this deal along. I really enjoyed this one. You can see my review of it here.

You can download your sale copy here

Here's the back copy:

Spring 1813 --The exotic splendors of India are legendary, and the colorful sights of her new home in Calcutta immediately captivate eighteen-year-old Lady Helen Poulter. Whereas many of her fellow British expatriates despise the culture they see as barbaric, Helen sees excitement in the unusual locale.

It is in this vibrant, bustling city that she finds a kindred soul in Captain Michael Rhodes, an Englishman whose lifelong love of India runs deep. Their friendship quickly grows, yet despite their undeniable connection, she could never think of Captain Rhodes as more than a dear friend. Her love, in truth, has been captured by dashing British Lieutenant Arthur Bancroft. This handsome soldier represents the embodiment of all she’s dreamed of in a husband.

Preoccupied by her growing affections, Helen never dreams that beneath the glamor of the city, hostilities are reaching a boiling point. When battle ultimately threatens both of the men in her life, she must make a choice: pursue the man who symbolizes her British past, or let herself love a man who promises an unknown future in the land she loves. But amid the casualties of war, will her declaration of love come too late?

Book Review: World's Greatest Adventure Machine & $25 Giveaway!

I'm so happy to be part of the tour for Frank Cole's new book, The World's Greatest Adventure Machine. Our family has loved Frank's books and this one was no exception!

The book is reminiscent of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory when four children win a contest to take a ride on the World's Greatest Adventure Machine. Each child has their own challenges and that makes it all the more exciting when they get sent on an adventure that no one could have predicted!

The story had a lot of twists and turns which made my kids ask for one more chapter to be read, long after I should have stopped so they could sleep. The problems the characters are faced with were so exciting, suspenseful, and fun and we thoroughly enjoyed seeing how everyone's ideas panned out as they tried to get out of the situation. There were also a few chapters that sparked conversations about how we decide what to believe and how first impressions can be deceiving. I think this one will definitely go on our family's to-be-read-again shelf.

Don't forget to scroll down and enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card!

You can get your copy of The World's Greatest Adventure here

Here's the back copy:

An adventure novel about four lucky kids and a mysterious, but thrilling ride for fans of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory or Jurassic Park!

CastleCorp and the famous Castleton brothers are unveiling the World’s Greatest Adventure Machine! The roller coaster is an experience like no other, and four lucky kids have won the chance to be the first to ride it.

There’s Trevor, whose latest stunt got him in trouble at school again. There’s Devin, whose father is pushing him to be the next Internet sensation. Nika’s wealthy grandfather isn’t too pleased about her participation. And Cameron, he’ll be the first to tell you, is a certified genius.

The whole world is watching. But as the kids set off on their journey, they begin to realize that there is perhaps more to their fellow contest winners than meets the eye. And the Adventure Machine? It might just have a mind of its own.

Join the contestants on their wild ride if you dare. Your adventure starts now!

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My Favorite Romance Awareness Month Giveaway! You Can Win!

I am loving Romance Awareness Month and it's National Relaxation Day! What better way to relax than with a book?

I've saved my very favorite Proper Romance for today's giveaway---The Sheriffs of Savage Wells by Sarah Eden. I'm so excited for the person who wins this one!

I laughed out loud, cried along with the characters, and sighed when I closed the book. You will love it! And it's so easy to enter to win a print copy of your very own! This one is definitely a keeper.

Don't forget to scroll down and enter for your chance to win! (U.S. addresses only please.)

Here's the back copy:

The small town of Savage Wells is barely big enough for the people who call it home; it certainly isn’t big enough for more than one sheriff.

Yet when famed lawman Cade O’Brien rides into town, he finds he’s not the only man ready to take on the job. What’s more, one of his competitors is a woman.

Paisley Bell loves her town and the eccentric people in it. She’s been the job to anyone else. Not only does she love the work, but she also needs the income to take care of her ailing father.

It’s a true battle of the sexes, and sparks fly between the two as Cade and Paisley banter and boast, neither one ready to acknowledge the attraction they have for each other. But when Paisley’s former beau shows up, along with a band of bank robbers, Savage Wells is suddenly faced with the kind of peril that only a sheriff can manage. Who will be man enough—or woman enough—to step up, claim the badge, and save the town?

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Book Review and Giveaway!

I'm so thrilled to be part of the blog tour for Nancy Campbell Allen's new novel, The Secret of the India Orchid. Nancy Campbell Allen is one of my favorite authors and she has really outdone herself with this one!

Anthony Blake believes he has found the love of his life in Sophia Elliot. She is kind and thoughtful, smart and beautiful. She's everything he could ever want and after the war and the spying he was asked to do, he's ready to settle down and reach for happiness. But when the Crown comes calling with another dangerous assignment, he can't turn it down---everyone he loves is in danger, including Sophia. Anthony is forced to throw away the one chance at love he's had and it breaks his heart. Yet, two years later, he's thrown together with Sophia and his feelings haven't changed. But his dangerous assignment isn't over and Sophia is right in the middle of it now. Can he protect her from those who want to cause her harm without revealing his true feelings? Or will he be forced to push her away again and lose any shred of happiness he might have found?

I loved this story. Anthony is a strong hero who isn't perfect, but tries his best to take care of his responsibilities, no matter how distasteful. I love how much he valued Sophia for more than her beauty or talents, but for the things her background had taught her, her observant tendencies, and how much trust he placed in her during dangerous situations. I thought their relationship was very believable and I felt all the emotions swirling around them as they tried to figure out if they could ever be together. The setting is outstanding, the author is able to convey the feeling of India with the tastes and scents, along with the scenery. She definitely did her research and incorporated it seamlessly into the story.

This is also a mystery and I could not for the life of me figure out who the villain was until right before it was revealed! I had my suspicions, of course, but you know it's a good mystery when there are several people who could be the culprit and each one had motive and means!

I really didn't want this story to end and it will definitely go on my rainy day shelf to be read again. I highly recommend it for those who love a good mystery mixed with an even better romance.

Today is the last day to enter the giveaway to win a print copy of The Secret of the India Orchid. Don't miss your chance to win! You can enter the giveaway here

Here's the back copy:

Anthony Blake, the Earl of Wilshire, is in love with his best friend’s sister, Sophia Elliot. But his plans to court her are put on hold when he is forced to resume his role as an undercover spy for the Crown. A secret document listing the names of the entire network of British spies—including his own—has been stolen. To protect Sophia, Anthony cuts off all ties to her and exchanges his life as an honorable earl for the facade of a flirtatious playboy.

Heartbroken and confused, Sophia travels to India, hoping to find healing in one of the most exotic regions of the British Empire. But the exotic land isn’t as restful as she had hoped. Instead, she finds herself embroiled in a mystery of a missing sea captain, a possible murder, and a plot that could involve the prince of India. And when Anthony appears at the British Residency, asking questions and keeping his distance from her, she is stunned.

She still loves him, and, in her heart, she knows he loves her too. But how can she rebuild her relationship with him if he won't confide in her? Does she dare offer her heart to him a second time, or will their love be lost under the India sun?

Friday Freebie

Today's Friday Freebie is Dream With Me, Cowboy by Debra Clopton. I don't think I've read anything by her before, so I'm interested to read this one!

You can download your free Kindle copy here

Here's the back copy:

Dream With Me, Cowboy is book 1 of an addictively fun Christian romance series! Hairstylist Lacy Brown believes love is in the air and the hair when she drives her ancient pink convertible into town and joins forces with three matchmakers who've started a national "wives wanted" ad campaign to save their dying town. The women will come~she believes and she’ll help each of them find their happily-ever after… But she’s not looking for love…

From the moment rancher Clint Matlock and Lacy Brown collide the unpredictable spitfire turns his life upside down and suddenly he’s having trouble keeping his mind on stopping rustlers...
If you like fast paced, well written romance with loveable characters you’ll love this series! These stories will be etched into your heart forever! What a wonderful little town Debra Clopton's created ~ get your copy today!

FOUR Free Books Today!

I know, I know, tomorrow is Freebie Friday, not today! But I saw this deal and couldn't resist passing it along.

It's FOUR free Western romance novels from Liz Isaacson. You know what you want to be doing this weekend, right? A good book, your favorite snack, cozied up in your favorite chair? Sounds good to me!

You can download your four free novels here

Here's the back copy:

This Christian western romance boxed set contains four novels in the Three Rivers Ranch Romance series - Fifth Generation Cowboy, Sixth Street Love Affair, The Seventh Sergeant, and Eight Second Ride.

Fifth Generation Cowboy: A Three Rivers Ranch Romance (Book 4): Tom Lovell has watched his friends find their true happiness on Three Rivers Ranch, but everywhere he looks, he only sees friends. Rose Reyes has been bringing her daughter out to the ranch for equine therapy for months, but it doesn't seem to be working. Her challenges with Mari are just as frustrating as ever. Could Tom be exactly what Rose needs? Can he remove his friendship blinders and find love with someone who's been right in front of him all this time?

Sixth Street Love Affair: A Three Rivers Ranch Romance (Book 5): After losing his wife a few years back, Garth Ahlstrom thinks he's ready for a second chance at love. But Juliette Thompson has a secret that could destroy their budding relationship. Can they find the strength, patience, and faith to make things work?

The Seventh Sergeant: A Three Rivers Ranch Romance (Book 6): Life has finally started to settle down for Sergeant Reese Sanders after his devastating injury overseas. Discharged from the Army and now with a good job at Courage Reins, he’s finally found happiness—until a horrific fall puts him right back where he was years ago: Injured and depressed. Carly Watters, Reese's new veteran care coordinator, dislikes small towns almost as much as she loathes cowboys. But she finds herself faced with both when she gets assigned to Reese's case. Do they have the humility and faith to make their relationship more than professional?

Eight Second Ride: A Three Rivers Ranch Romance (Book 7): Ethan Greene loves his work at Three Rivers Ranch, but he can't seem to find the right woman to settle down with. When sassy yet vulnerable Brynn Bowman shows up at the ranch to recruit him back to the rodeo circuit, he takes a different approach with the barrel racing champion. His patience and newfound faith pay off when a friendship--and more--starts with Brynn. But she wants out of the rodeo circuit right when Ethan wants to rejoin. Can they find the path God wants them to take and still stay together?

Havencross Review & One More Giveaway!

Who doesn't love book giveaways! I'm so excited to be able to offer you another one today, especially because it's National Book Lover's Day! Hooray!

First of all, I want to announce the winner of the print copy of A Vicar's Daughter by Josi Kilpack.

*drum roll*

It's Kristin Wu!

Thank you to everyone who participated. I hope you entered this week's drawing for Nancy Campbell Allen's new one, The Secret of the India Orchid. If you haven't entered, you can do so here

Today's review is Havencross by Julie Daines. I was glued to the pages of this book. It's a regency romance, but it also includes a mystery that had me turning pages long into the night!

The Cardinham family is rocked by scandal and must flee London to their estate in Cornwall. Elaine never wanted to come back to Havencross because it evokes too many memories of her brother who suddenly disappeared, and Gareth, the man who proposed to her and she refused. But nothing has stayed the same at Havencross. Gareth now owns the mine his family once worked for, and dangerous smugglers have infiltrated the coastline. Not to mention a handsome earl who comes to ask for Elaine's hand. But can she put the past behind her to find a future with the earl? Or will the secrets of Havencross put her in Gareth's path once again?

I loved so many things about this book. The setting was amazing and so well done, the love story was sweet and pulled me right in, and there were so many twists and turns to the plot---even when I thought I had it figured out, I was surprised! The character of Elaine was so relatable as she tries to sort out her feelings with the events happening around her. And there is more than one mystery going on. There's the mystery of what really happened to her brother. The mystery of what really happened between her parents. The mystery of why Elaine turned down Gareth's proposal. And the mystery of the wounded woman in the cave. And the writing is such that readers will get all the feels as Elaine figures it all out.

This is an expertly crafted story that readers will love! Definitely one of Ms. Daines' best books yet.

Don't forget to scroll down to enter to win a copy of your own!

Here's the back copy:

When a shocking scandal involving her father spreads through London society, Elaine Cardinham and her parents are forced to retreat to their country home in Cornwall for refuge. But Havencross is no sanctuary for Elaine. She is haunted by the mysterious disappearance of her brother—and the heartbreak she left in her wake all those years ago. It has been five long years since Gareth Kemp last saw Elaine—when she rejected his marriage proposal. Her reappearance convinces him of one thing: he has never stopped loving her. To put his feelings for her aside, he focuses his attention on the dangerous smuggling plaguing the Cornish coast. As Elaine attempts to run from her past, she ventures ever closer to a dangerous truth—and Gareth may be the only one who can save her from a deadly finish.

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Here's the book tour schedule:

*August 7th: http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://fireandicereads.com/, http://melsshelves.blogspot.com/, http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, https://joyinthemoments.wordpress.com/

*August 8th: http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/, http://empowermoms.net/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/, http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/

*August 9th: http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://rachellewrites.blogspot.com/, http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/, http://rockinbookreviews.com/, http://thoroughlyhere.blogspot.com/ 

*August 10th: http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, https://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://www.iamareader.com/, http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/

*August 11th: http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/, https://atransparentmom.com/, http://reviewsfromtheheart.blogspot.com/ 

Romance Awareness Month Continues! Come Win An Amazing Book!

So far I am really loving Romance Awareness month! I'm so much more aware of new authors in the romance genre and with all of the recommendations you gave me in the last prize post, I have really added to my authors-to-watch-for list. Thank you so much to everyone who participated in that one!

But this week is another chance to win a print copy from one of my very favorite Proper Romance authors---Nancy Campbell Allen! Her brand new romance, The Secret of the India Orchid just barely came out last week, and I am giving away a print copy!

You will definitely want to win this one. The book is SO GOOD! (I'll be reviewing it on Monday, so watch for that!)

Be sure to scroll down and enter for your chance to win a print copy! (Winners will be chosen next Tuesday and there will be another prize for you to win!)

Here's the back copy:

Anthony Blake, the Earl of Wilshire, is in love with his best friend’s sister, Sophia Elliot. But his plans to court her are put on hold when he is forced to resume his role as an undercover spy for the Crown. A secret document listing the names of the entire network of British spies—including his own—has been stolen. To protect Sophia, Anthony cuts off all ties to her and exchanges his life as an honorable earl for the facade of a flirtatious playboy.

Heartbroken and confused, Sophia travels to India, hoping to find healing in one of the most exotic regions of the British Empire. But the exotic land isn’t as restful as she had hoped. Instead, she finds herself embroiled in a mystery of a missing sea captain, a possible murder, and a plot that could involve the prince of India. And when Anthony appears at the British Residency, asking questions and keeping his distance from her, she is stunned.

She still loves him, and, in her heart, she knows he loves her too. But how can she rebuild her relationship with him if he won't confide in her? Does she dare offer her heart to him a second time, or will their love be lost under the India sun?

(U.S. residents only)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I Should Have Read A Book, But I Binge-Watched Instead

Today has been such a rough day! In fact, it was a super busy weekend and I sort of just crashed today.

I know I usually review books on Monday, but I made chocolate chip cookies with my kids and then I binge-watched Scarecrow and Mrs. King.

I know, I know! It's an old show. No one probably remembers it anymore. But I loved that show when it was on TV and I have all the DVDs, so I sat in my comfy chair with my plate of cookies and watched all my favorite episodes.

Don't judge me. *brushes crumbs off my pajama shirt* *reaches for another cookie*

Tomorrow will be a better day. (I hope.)

What's your go-to binge watch?

Two Friday Freebies!

Today I have TWO Friday Freebies for you!

The first one is a romantic comedy called The Artist Cries Wolf and it looks really fun! Heather Horrocks will charm you in this enchanting romance with a light sprinkling of paranormal.

You can download your free Kindle copy here

Here's the back copy:

Moonchuckle Bay … Monsters … Movies … Magic!

SHE’S LOOKING FOR A CHANGE — AND THE FULL MOON IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!

Amber’s been in love with Samuel for three years and she’s determined to find out if what she feels is real or not — and, if it is, to win him over. Samuel’s just come back from a tour of duty in Afghanistan when his buddy’s cute little sister shows up. Too bad his guilt won’t allow him to let her into his heart, because if she ever learns what he did, she won’t give him the time of day. Will a puppy, parents who want to keep them apart, and a town filled with monsters scare off their romance?

Flirty Romance with a Touch of Magic by USA Today Bestselling Author Heather Horrocks

The second one is Lucy McConnell's Love in Light and Shadow. I've recently begun reading her stuff and really enjoying it. This one is a western romance and it looks GOOD!

You can download your free copy here

Here's the back copy:

Mercedes O’Shay has sworn off gorgeous men because they have a tendency to break her heart. When she meets her new neighbor, Chet Bauer, she immediately puts him in the Do Not Date category based on his well-defined muscles and stunning blue eyes. But the more Mercedes learns about the cowboy who reads classics and forges iron, the more she realizes the heart doesn’t see in black and white; it sees light and shadows.

Summer Memories

Since I have small children at home still, I've been trying to do at least one fun thing with them every day. This week, we've watched Boss Baby, gone to a museum, and to the pool, (for which I'm still sunburned! I even put on sunscreen and I look like a lobster.) But I also got out our puppet stage and all our puppets.

We had so much fun making up puppet shows! We did the old standbys of the Princess and the Frog, Goldilocks and the Three Bears (with a twist!), and several Book of Mormon stories, but my favorite was when my little boy just wanted to be a rabbit doing the story of Dumbo. It was so funny!

And I wasn't the only one who thought so. Our cat was thoroughly entertained! Here's a picture of it:

What fun things are you doing this summer?

What I'm Reading Wednesday

I've been wanting to read a book for a while now, called Mustaches for Maddie, but part of me was a little afraid to read it. You see, my nephew passed away at the age of fifteen from a brain tumor and I was worried that reading another child's story about such a devastating diagnosis might be too hard.

So far it's been really sweet because the book is sort of a fictionalized version of Maddie's life. We are getting to know this little sixth grader with a big imagination and an even bigger heart. I love how she is portrayed, and knowing what's coming, I'm hoping for a very happy ending!

I'll definitely do a full review when I'm done and let you know what I thought!

You can get your copy here

Based on a true story.

Maddie is a normal twelve-year-old girl. Well, except for the fake mustaches she carries in her pocket. She likes to make people laugh and slapping on a mustache, especially a fuzzy pink or neon green one, always gets a smile. Maddie hopes that the class queen, Cassie, will find her mustaches as funny as she does and want to play with her at recess. She's been self-conscious lately because her right arm only feels normal when it's curled against her chest and she's constantly tripping over her feet. But that's probably just part of growing up and not something weird, right?

When Maddie's arm continues to bother her, her parents take her to a doctor who gives them a shocking diagnosis: the cause of the abnormal behavior of her limbs is a brain tumor and she must have surgery to remove it. She's understandably afraid as he describes the procedure, but knows she must find a way to be brave and must face her fears--all of them--at the hospital, at home and at school.

She will need all of her courage not only to face her illness, but also to face Cassie at school. Both Cassie and Maddie are auditioning for the same role in the school play, but when Cassie accuses Maddie of lying about her tumor in order to get attention, Cassie's bossiness turns into bullying.

And as Maddie's surgery approaches, she begins to worry more and more about the outcome. What if something goes wrong? What if the doctors don't get all the tumor out of her brain? What will happen to her family? What will happen to her?

It will take all of Maddie's vibrant imagination, a lot of kindness-both given and received-and of course, the perfect mustache to overcome the tough stuff ahead of her.