Saturday, November 19, 2022

About the Book

Book: His Delightful Lady Delia

Author: Grace Hitchcock

Genre: Historical Romance

Release date: November 1, 2022

Behind the curtain, she must put on the performance of a lifetime . . . while love and risk take center stage.

Delia Vittoria’s mother has lost her voice at last. After five years of being her diva mother’s understudy, it is time for Delia to assume her place as the lead soprano onstage behind the Academy of Music’s faded velvet curtain. And she is all that stands between the Academy and its greatest threat–the nouveaux riches’ lavish new Metropolitan Opera House.

Kit Quincy never misses opening night, but when his sister begs him to help get her husband out of an Italian opera star’s arms, Kit accidentally confronts the younger Lady Vittoria instead. When he meets the stunning young diva again, he attempts to make amends, but then finds himself pulled into a society matron’s plot to win the great opera war. To draw attention to Delia Vittoria as the Academy’s new soprano star, Kit is convinced to act as both Delia’s patron and the enigmatic phantom who once haunted the Academy years ago. But when a second phantom appears, more than Delia’s rising career is threatened.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Grace Hitchcock (www.gracehitchcock.com) is the award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a master’s degree in creative writing and a bachelor of arts in English with a minor in history. Grace lives in the New Orleans area with her husband, Dakota, and their sons and daughter.

More from Grace

I’m pretty certain every author started as an avid reader who dreamed of how they would change an ending or change who the heroine ended up with if they could write the book instead. (Anyone else think Theodore Laurence should have married Jo March?) It’s that ever-beautiful question of “what if” that has haunted some of my favorite stories and often drives my own stories to spark to life.

I first discovered The Phantom of the Opera as a child and fell in love with the beauty of the Broadway musical, a love that continued into my adulthood. So, when I was researching ideas for Book Three in the American Royalty series and I stumbled upon the great opera-house wars between the new money’s opera house and the Academy’s elite opera house, the “what if” sequence began and I knew I had to write my version of a phantom-of-the-opera story. Then when I researched the Italian opera company, I grew even more excited, as I’m from a large Italian family. And when I say large, I mean it’s not uncommon for our smallest gatherings to be only forty people, and when the whole krewe is together, we need a large facility to house us all. I’ve also visited New York and Italy and felt I could add some authenticity to the Italian characters in my novel, which brings me to the leading lady—a delightful opera singer named Delia Vittoria, who takes a beloved hero from Book One in My Dear Miss Dupré, Kit Quincy, by surprise.

I knew from Kit’s character that if he’d met the woman he was meant to wed, nothing would have stopped him in his pursuit, so I knew I had to introduce a new heroine instead of a lady introduced in Book One. It is rather daring to bring in a new lead in the third book of a series without some form of introduction in prior novels, but I felt Kit’s character warranted it. Kit is by far the “oldest” hero I have written about to date, and to my delight, he captured my heart with his genuine soul and fierce devotion toward the woman he loves. Because of his age and personal experience, I felt that Kit could be a wonderful example of true, godly love to a woman who has seen almost nothing but poor imitations. I hope that you will enjoy their journey toward love and my nod to The Phantom of the Opera! Happy reading, friends!

MY REVIEW

This is a wonderful look at the opera world during this historical setting. Delia is quite the character and I loved her innocence at times. After her father left her and her mother, they have struggled to survive. Her mother is a very talented opera singer and enjoys the spotlight. I wish I could say good things about Delia’s mother but she has made poor choices which causes people to shun her. Having an affair with a married man does’t sit well with people. But she does adore her daughter and will do anything for her.

After being in her mother’s shadow for so long, Delia gets the chance to be center stage finally. I loved how she was well received by many and hopes of a bright future look promising. Delia is put in an uncomfortable position when there is a power struggle between the Academy of Music and the Metropolitan Opera. A plan is set and I loved how the author includes the Phantom of The Opera in the story. This piqued my interest and I couldn’t wait to see how it would play out.

Kit impressed me with his dashing gentleman ways and makes a smashing hit in this story. We met him in an earlier story in this series where his heart was broken. He is now in control of hotels and has a place with the elite that grants him recognition. When he and Delia team up to save one of the theaters danger comes their way. The author includes secrets, mystery, faith and a few laughs in this charming story.

I loved how the story traces back to Delia’s father and how many secrets were exposed as her father finally comes to see her. There were quite a few surprises in the story which quickly turned the story into a mystery of sorts. The author does a great job in unraveling the past and illustrating how important faith is.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Blog Stops

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 19

Melissa’s Bookshelf, November 19

Texas Book-aholic, November 20

Inklings and notions, November 21

The Book Club Network, November 21

deb’s Book Review, November 22

For Him and My Family, November 22

Girls in white dresses, November 23

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 23

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, November 24 (Author Interview)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 25

Holly’s Book Corner, November 25

Remembrancy, November 26

Connie’s History Classroom, November 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 27

Book Looks by Lisa, November 28

Cover Lover Book Review, November 28

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 29

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 30

Blogging With Carol, December 1

Back Porch Reads, December 1

Splashes of Joy, December 2

Through the Fire Blogs, December 3

Labor Not in Vain, December 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Grace is giving away the grand prize package of a $30 e-gift card to Baker Book House and a paperback copy of all three books in the American Royalty series: My Dear Miss Dupré, Her Darling Mr. Day, and His Delightful Lady Delia!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/22ec4/his-delightful-lady-delia-celebration-tour-giveaway

Friday, November 18, 2022

About the Book

Book: Let Them Eat Fruitcake

Author: Kathleen J. Robison

Genre: Christian Holiday Romance

Release date: October 11, 2022

Faith, romance, and fruitcake.

Victoria Randall has it all—a new job in an ideal locale and the eye of Chad, the hunkiest guy in her apartment building. Christmas is going to be great this year. But when a call from her best guy friend back in Bay Town tells her that her grandmother isn’t doing well, she decides to fly to Grandma’s rescue.

Art has loved Victoria since they were five, but after she returns and keeps him locked into total friend zone he decides to let to let his hopes go. Easier said than done when he spends so much time with her, making and delivering her grandmother’s fruitcakes. Add to that the legend of love surrounding them, and well… it’s tough.

A horrible accident puts things into perspective for both Art and Victoria, but Art decides it’s too late, and when some guy shows up acting like Victoria’s boyfriend, he’s sure of it. By the time she’s ready to head back to California, all hope of a romance between them seems lost—right up to the moment her grandmother thrusts a piece of fruitcake into her hands.

Are the matchmaking properties of Sally Trotman’s fruitcake their last chance at a happily-ever-after? Find out in Let Them Eat Fruitcake—a story of faith, romance, and of course, fruitcake.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Kathleen J. Robison is an Okinawan-American, born in Okinawa, and raised in California, Florida, Mississippi, and Singapore. Her travels and her family are the sources of her inspiration for her books. Kathleen and her Pastor husband have eight adult children. Seven are married, blessing them with eighteen grandchildren and counting. Her ethnically diverse background extends to her family of currently thirty-five personalities which provide many opportunities to share God’s amazing love amidst the challenges of real life.

More from Kathleen

Writing this book has been a treasured time, and I’m so excited it’s released. Joining Miz Sally again (from previous Bay Town Books) and meeting her granddaughter, Victoria and love interest, Art, was a delightful journey of love and faith at Christmas. I hope you’ll feel the magic (God’s spirit) as much as I felt moved by Him to write it.

Although totally fictional, it’s personal, and close to my heart. My mother-in-law has baked fruitcakes forever. I even remember her mother, from Wales, baking fruitcakes over fifty years ago, but I wasn’t a fan of the sweet bread then. And I don’t remember how the story idea came about, but when it did, I knew I wanted to bake with my mother-in-law, red-haired Harriet…well, white-haired now. But still as feisty as the reputation of redheads, and so very generous.

My mother-in-law turned ninety-eight on this book’s release date, and she is still baking fruitcakes. Dozens of loaves. She continues to live in her own home, cooks, cleans, and drives to pick up great-grandchildren after school. Needless to say, she’s amazing. Two years ago, when I decided to write Let Them Eat Fruitcake, the first thing I wanted to do was ask if I could bake with her. I didn’t have to. She called my husband and said, “Let me talk to Kathy.” We were both quite shocked, as she’d never asked to talk to me before. Although I share a close relationship with her, her phone calls are reserved for mother-son conversations.

“Kathy, I was thinking…I want you to come make fruitcakes with me. No one else is interested in it, and I’d like to pass it down to you.” I almost cried. It definitely was a God-winked moment, and I told her so. And we did. We’ve baked and passed out the luscious cakes for two years in a row. My own grandmother also made fruitcakes, but all my family says Harriet’s is the best. So, I look forward to baking again with her this Christmas. I wish I could pass on the recipe, but it’s a mega batch! If you go on my FB Author Page and/or my blog at www.kathleenjrobison.com/blog, there’s a video that shows what I mean. I pray that Let Them Eat Fruitcake blesses the readers and points them to following the Spirit of God moving in their lives. Whether it’s through fruitcake or anything else! I hope you enjoy this fun Christmas romance.

MY REVIEW

Get ready for a faith filled holiday story as two people learn to trust God and wait on Him for answers. The story is emotional yet fun at the same time. How many of you have had fruit cake before? I can say I’m not a big fan but something about the fruitcake in this story sounded yummy. Some say it is magical but most think it is a way to bring people together. There may be a tad too much alcohol in it but everyone that tries grandmother’s fruit cake in the story seem to find a happily ever after.

Victoria has a lot going on with her job in California, trying for a huge promotion and a guy who is pushy and rude trying to sweep her off her feet. When she gets a call from her best friend that her grandmother needs her she drops everything to go to her. The grandmother in this story is by far my favorite character. Victoria will soon find out just how feisty her grandmother is.

Art grabbed my heart with his humbleness and how he has been in love with Victoria forever. Having her back in town makes him happy but he is struggling with his feelings. He has always been there for Victoria but he feels she is pushing away more than usual.

The story illustrates how we need to wait on God and not try to make things happen on our own. Victoria is trying to decide whether to stay and care for her grandmother or go back home to California. I loved the moments she and her grandmother spent together . I think her grandmother has had enough of Victoria giving Art mixed signals. She tells her,” Now don’t go thinking you get everything you want, whenever you want it.” How many times have we prayed for something and expected to get exactly what we prayed for? We need to keep our eyes on Jesus and press in. Let Him be our everything and wait on Him for answers.

I loved following Art and Victoria as they each seek God and trust in Him. They are meant to be together but something is holding Victoria back. The author puts in a little drama that maybe will wake Victoria up, but we will have to see. I loved the Christmas theme and how the author brings joy into our hearts as she reminds us to “Keep our eyes on Jesus.”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 18

lakesidelivingsite, November 18

Texas Book-aholic, November 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 20

deb’s Book Review, November 21

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 22

Inklings and notions, November 23

Splashes of Joy, November 24

By the Book, November 25

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 26

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 29

For Him and My Family, November 30

Artistic Nobody, December 1 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, December 1

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kathleen is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/22ad0/let-them-eat-fruitcake-celebration-tour-giveaway

Thursday, November 17, 2022

TRAPPING, TURKEYS, @ THANKSGIVING BY TONYA KAPPES

Mae West is bound and determined to stay in shape for her wedding day and with all the delicious southern dessert Mary Elizabeth is serving for Thanksgiving Mae has joined the local running group to race in Thanksgiving’s annual Turkey Trot.

She never figured murder would be on the menu and a couple of people she loves have a perfect motive.

The list of suspects isn’t exactly brief especially when one of the governor’s recently pardoned prisoner is at the top of the list. Mae has a pretty full plate between trying to plan a wedding that will satisfy everyone, keeping Dottie in line as well as trying to get a long with her future mother in law.

So what’s a little investigation to keep her mind off things? If Mae’s not careful, she may find herself served up as a last-minute course with all the trimmings.

Amazon All Star Author Tonya Kappes has written more than 175 southern cozy mysteries, all of which have graced numerous bestseller lists, including USA Today and Woman's World Book Club pick twice . Best known for stories charged with southern charm, emotion and humor and filled with flawed characters, her novels have garnered reader praise and glowing critical reviews. She lives with her husband in northern Kentucky. Now that her four boys have flown out of the nest, Tonya writes full-time in her camper!

You can find her all over social media and at Tonyakappes.com.

For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.

MY REVIEW

This is the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit as we join Mae and her friends in another cozy mystery. There is a buzz going on about Mae’s upcoming wedding and everyone is waiting to hear the date announced. Mae has taken up running so she can keep in shape for the big day. I love this series so much because it has that southern charm and small town feeling. The campground that Mae owns is always having exciting events going on. As Thanksgiving fast approaches Mae is getting ready for a great get together with friends and family.

When a body is discovered in the woods the town erupts with rumors. Finger pointing starts going on and the cause of death was very unique. It seems our victim was allergic to wasps and guess how he died? Or was it something else that killed the victim? Mae and her friends are now on the case and I loved how serious they took their investigation. The suspects are plenty and yet again I try to figure out who the guilty person is and why they did it. There are clues that help readers try to solve the case but once again the author throw twists in the story that kept me guessing.

To my surprise another victim is found and Mae is beside herself trying to figure out what is going on. I love the group of ladies that surround Mae each day. They have each other’s back and let me tell you they are a hoot. Get ready for another fun adventure with Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies in this holiday cozy mystery. The author leaves us with a little peek into the next book in the series which I can’t wait for.

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

About the Book

Book: Returning to Breakers

Author: Rachel Skatvold

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Release date: October 25, 2022

Sometimes God’s “why” comes too late… and just in time.

Tiffany Hill is a master at concealing her emotions. She can’t admit she has her own questions about God—like why He allowed her Marine husband to die in action. A single mom with three children to care for and the general store on Merriweather to run leaves little time for philosophizing. She has more pressing issues to deal with. Like how her dream of running the family business has become a burden. Is keeping the business afloat even worth the effort anymore?

After high school and an unfortunate falling out with his father, Liam Hadler left Breakers Head, determined never to look back. He failed on that one, and one of many regrets was leaving his high school sweetheart behind to chase an impossible dream.

When his mother calls after his father suffers a stroke, Liam has a tough decision to make. Will he return to a place he’s avoided for sixteen years, and is making amends with his father even possible?

A chance encounter with Tiffany after so many years never occurred to him, but memories of their time together rekindles something he thought he’d lost. What’ll it take to persuade her to give him a second chance?

This Breakers Head novel is Rachel Skatvold’s final book in the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

Click here to get your copy!

About the Author

Rachel Skatvold is a Christian author and stay-at-home mom from the Midwest. She enjoys writing Christian romance and devotionals. Rachel has published over a dozen novels, including books in the Hart Ranch Series, set in the Montana wilderness and the Ladies of Ardena Series, set in medieval times. She is also a contributing author in the Whispers in Wyoming and Brides of Pelican Rapids Series. Other than writing, some of her hobbies include singing, reading and camping in the great outdoors with her husband and two young sons. You can find more information about Rachel and her books on her website: www.rachelskatvold.com.

More from Rachel

Thank you for following the Returning to Breakers Celebration Tour with Celebrate Lit. Writing in the Independence Islands Series has been an incredible journey and since this is my last book in the series, it’s bitter sweet to say goodbye to these wonderful characters. Although some of them may show up in the sister series, Suamalie Islands…hint, hint, hint!

It has also been a joy to work with Sandra Barela, Chautona Havig, Denise Barela, and everyone else on the Celebrate Lit team. Thank you to them and the wonderful authors I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with. You all have been amazing.

Returning to Breakers features two sets of characters. First, Tiffany and Liam, but also, Kendall and Tyler. Along with Tiff’s story, I do hope you also enjoy the conclusion of the love story between the two main characters from my first book in the series.

In this book, we find Tiffany overwhelmed and ready for a fresh start. As a single mom of three kids and a business owner, she has to wear about every hat imaginable. She has always been an advice giver to everyone else, but now she desperately needs advice herself. Should she sell the family store? It’s one of many questions plaguing her soul. When her friends realize Tiff is floundering, they know she needs a lifeline in the form of some R&R. They arrange for her and the kids to stay at a local resort on Mimosa. Tiffany is reluctant at first but ultimately gives in, quickly realizing how much she needed to rest and reconnect with her kids. However, when an old love from the past returns to the islands, will Tiff’s relaxing vacation be swept away in the tide?

This book is close to my heart because it is dedicated to my oldest sister, Becky. Growing up, she was a great person to go to for spiritual advice, similar to Tiff in this book. She always has wisdom to impart and quotes Bible verses of encouragement even to this day when I need advice.

This book was also inspired by a verse from Philippians 4:6-7, which says, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” When we go through something difficult in life, sometimes it is easy to forget to pray. However, if we leave our worries and anxieties with God, He will take them from us and in return, give us peace. This is one of the lessons Tiff learns during this story and it is also a wonderful reminder for me during trials I have been facing recently.

Blessings.

MY REVIEW

I am sad that this is the author’s last contribution to this series. I love visiting the island and getting reacquainted with the characters. The authors that write this series are very good at having different characters from each others books make appearances in their book. I was excited to see two characters in particular in this book and how the author brings their story to a close.

Our focus in this story involves two people that knew each other back in high school. Tiffany has really been busy raising three children alone, coping with her husband’s death and running the family store. I had to laugh at the cash registers used because I can remember them when I was a checker at a grocery store when I was a teenager. They jammed all the time and was so frustrating to use. Tiffany is overwhelmed with employees not showing up and it puts her having to stay later to close up. I think she needs a much needed break.

Liam has come back to see his father and hopefully repair their relationship. He still holds some bitterness but knows that it is time to make amends. You can feel the chill in the air as he arrives at his father’s home. I don’t think Liam knew just how ill his father is until he talks to his doctor. His dad needs a kidney transplant and Liam is determined to be the donor. How will he convince his father to let him do this without a fight?

The author brings Liam and Tiffany together in a unique way. Tiffany is blessed with a mini vacation for her and her children at the resort where Liam is staying at. After sixteen years Liam’s first eye contact is with Tiffany having green goop on her face. The details of this encounter is a little funny and I enjoyed them getting to see each other again.

Tiffany struggles with letting others help her but as she spends time praying she realizes that God is teaching her to let others help her and spend less time worrying about everything. It can be hard for us sometimes to admit we need help. Once we let go of our pride, we can start to see God’s direction for our lives.

Liam’s lesson is understanding that he not only needs to forgive his father but God as well. We all have asked the question, “Why did God allow this to happen?” For Liam it was seeing his parents divorce that had caused him to become angry. I liked how the author illustrates forgiveness and how important it is to get rid of bitterness. The ending is beautiful and shares new beginnings for several characters.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.