Hello and welcome to my stop on the Blog Tour

Art Lover’s Guide to Paris and Murder

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An Art Lover’s Guide to Paris and Murder: A Countess of Harleigh Mystery By Dianne Freeman

SYNOPSIS

Filled with Victorian-era intrigue for readers of Rhys Bowen, Deanna Raybourn, Tasha Alexander, and Julia Seales, Dianne Freeman’s Agatha Award-winning series takes a delightful jaunt to the City of Light as Frances Wynn, the American-born Countess of Harleigh, encounters a murder scene at the Paris Exposition.

Frances and her husband, George, have two points of interest in Paris. One is an impromptu holiday to visit the Paris Exposition. The other is personal. George’s Aunt Julia has requested her nephew’s help in looking into the suspicious death of renowned artist Paul Ducasse. Though Julia is not entirely forthcoming about her reasons, she is clearly a woman mourning a lost love.

At the exposition, swarming with tourists, tragedy casts a pall on the festivities. A footbridge collapses. Julia is among the casualties. However, she was not just another fateful victim. Julia was stabbed to death amid the chaos. With an official investigation at a standstill, George and Frances realize that to solve the case they must dig into Julia’s life—as well as Paul’s—and question everything and everyone in Julia’s coterie of artists and secrets.

They have no shortage of suspects. There is Paul’s inscrutable widow, Gabrielle. Paul’s art dealer and manager, Lucien. Julia’s friend Martine, a sculptress with a jealous streak. And art jurist, Monsieur Beaufoy. The investigation takes a turn when it’s revealed that George has inherited control of Julia’s estate—and another of her secrets. While George investigates, Frances safeguards their new legacy, and is drawn further into danger by a killer determined to keep the past buried.

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AUTHOR BIO

Dianne Freeman is the acclaimed author of the Agatha and Lefty Award winning Countess of Harleigh Mysteries, a two-time finalist for the Macavity’s Sue Feder Memorial Award, and a finalist for the Mary Higgins Clark Award. She spent thirty years working in corporate accounting and finance and now writes full-time. Born and raised in Michigan, she and her husband now split their time between Michigan and Arizona. Visit her at DiFreeman.com.

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REVIEW

An Art Lover’s Guide to Paris and Murder: A Countess of Harleigh Mystery By Dianne Freeman

Historical mystery fans will rejoice in this seventh installment in the Countess of Harleigh cozy mystery series.

Frances convinces her newlywed husband George are off to the Paris exposition, and to investigate a suspicious death for George’s aunt Julia. It would seem that Aunt Julia has been living a bohemian lifestyle. Once in Paris There Frances and George are tasked with solving Julia’s the death of her former lover and fellow artist, Paul Ducasse. When things take on a drastic turn for the worse George and Frances will have to keep their wits about them to solve this string of murders.

A fun fast paced mystery with some great suspects, along with some delightful banter.

Hello Gracious Readers

Welcome to my stop on the book blog tour for

The Lamplighter by Crystal J. Bell.

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Genre: Young Adult Historical Horror 
Publishing date: May 21st, 2024

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

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Synopsis

It’s an honor to bring light to the dark.

The whaling village of Warbler is famous for its lucky ship figureheads—and infamous for people disappearing into the nightly fog. In this murky locale, the lamplighter position is synonymous with safety and protection, and it’s a position Temperance assumes when her father is found hanging from one of the lampposts. Though Tempe proves competent, the town is still hesitant to let a woman handle this responsibility.

When a girl goes missing after two lamps go out, Tempe’s ability to provide for her mother and younger sister hangs in the balance. She scrambles for answers, hindered at every turn by the village authorities’ call for her removal. As more villagers vanish under her watch, Tempe discovers unsettling truths about the famous Warbler figureheads and her own beloved father. But her warnings of a monster are ignored, even by her own family. Now she must follow the light out of her own fog of despair, as she faces the choice to look the other way or risk speaking out and possibly dooming herself and her sister to be among the lost.

Content Warning: Murder, death of a parent

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Review

The Lamplighter

By Crystal J Bell

North Star Editions

May 20, 2024

Thank you @tbrbeyondtours @crystaljbell for sending me a wonderful print arc, and for having me on this tour

The Lamplighter by Crystal J Bell is a YA gothic horror at its finest. Reminiscent of older gothic tales. Where the author takes their time in setting up the characters and giving readers just enough details to keep them guessing. Set in the nineteenth century New England whaling town of Warbler, Connecticut. A treacherous fog, that rolls in every night to catch those who are misfortunate to find themselves outside in it.

Headstrong and determined, Temperance has taken up her father’s profession as a Lamplighter, following his death. She cares for her sister and her mother, keeping the lamppost when claustrophobic fog threatens every night. In a series of events Temp’s ability to maintain her position comes under attack, when two lamppost mysteriously go out. Struggling to clear her name in an era that women do not have voice.

Crystal Bell’s debut book, has fierce and compelling main character. The ominous gothic setting was wonderful depicted. Female rage, along with some heavy topics made this YA book a thought provoking book. The unexpected ending that totally took me by surprise and left me feeling very satisfied.

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Author

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Crystal J. Bell is a Colorado native who writes horror and fantasy with the intent to make readers both eager and uneasy to turn the pages of her books. When she isn’t drinking up autumn like the elixir of life, she can be found on the back patio with her laptop and a book, out on the reservoirs on her stand up paddle board, or cooking in the kitchen with her husband. Most likely pasta.

Website | Instagram | Goodreads

Hello Gracious Readers

Welcome to my to my stop on the book tour for

Every Time We Say Goodbye By Natalie Jenner

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BOOK INFORMATION

Every Time We Say Goodbye, by Natalie Jenner

St Martin’s Press (May 14, 2024)

Hardcover, eBook, & audiobook (336) pages

ISBN: 978-1250285188

Genre: Historical Fiction

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOKSHOP | ST. MARTIN’S PRESS | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

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BOOK DESCRIPTION

The bestselling author of The Jane Austen Society and Bloomsbury Girls returns with a brilliant novel of love and art, of grief and memory, of confronting the past and facing the future.

In 1955, Vivien Lowry is at a crossroads in life. Her latest play, the only female-authored play on the London stage that season, has opened in the West End to rapturous applause from the audience. The reviewers, however, are not as impressed as the playgoers and their savage notices not only shut down the play but ruin Vivien’s last chance for theatrical success. With her future in London not looking bright, at the suggestion of her friend, Peggy Guggenheim, Vivien takes a job as a script doctor on a major film shooting in Rome’s Cinecittà Studios. There she finds a vibrant moviemaking scene filled with rising stars, acclaimed directors, and famous actors in a country that is torn between its past and its potentially bright future, between the liberation of the post-war cinema and the restrictions of the Catholic Church that permeate the very soul of Italy.

As Vivien tries to forge a new future for herself, she also searches for the long-buried truth of the recent World War and the fate of her deceased fiancé lost in battle. Every Time We Say Goodbye is a bold and moving exploration of trauma and tragedy, hope and renewal, filled with dazzling characters both real and imaginary, from the incomparable author who charmed the world with her novels The Jane Austen Society and Bloomsbury Girls.

(Every Time We Say Goodbye is linked to The Jane Austen Society, & Bloomsbury Girls by characters, but is a stand-alone novel.)

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REVIEW

From the desk of Gwendalyn Anderson:

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.

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Every Time We Say Goodbye By Natalie Jenner

Natalie Jenner the author of The Jane Austen Society and Bloomsbury Girls, returns with another richly layered novel. Told in a dual time lines, readers follow Vivien Lowery, from Bloomsbury Girls, and an Italian resistance fighters of WWII, La Scolaretta. After her disastrous reception in London, Vivien Lowery travels to Rome to work at Cinecittà Studios as a script doctor. While in Italy she is hoping to uncover news of her lost fiancé, David.

Natalie Jenner brings the glamorous world of postwar Italy richly to life, along with

Italian politics and censorship. Hollywood Icons make their appearance, and beautiful clear writing, and dramatic situations, where the fascinating and illuminating historical detail felt completely authentic. Natalie Jenner has written another compelling storyline, with solid character development, which made this book a compulsively readable one.

AUTHOR BIO

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Natalie Jenner is the internationally bestselling author of The Jane Austen Society and Bloomsbury Girls, which have been translated into more than twenty languages worldwide. Born in England and raised in Canada, Natalie has been a corporate lawyer and career coach and once owned an independent bookstore in Oakville, Ontario, where she lives with her family and two rescue dogs.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

Hello Gracious Readers

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for

Sweet Nightmare by Tracy Wolf

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Sweet Nightmare By Tracey Wolf

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Fantasy
Publishing date: May 7th, 2024

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

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Synopsis

The scariest school on earth
Is about to experience real fear…

Most schools are about being the best. This school? It’s about being the worst. Calder Academy is where the rogue paranormals go. The ones who break the rules or lose control. And when that happens for vamps, werewolves, witches, and dark fae? It gets pretty freaking scary.

I should know. Because I’m trapped here.

Look, every seventeen-year-old girl thinks their mom is a tyrant. But mine just happens to run Calder Academy, which paints a giant target on my back. The way I make it through these dark halls is by steering clear of the things―and kids―who go bump in the night.

Especially Jude Abernathy-Lee.

But when a freak storm hits our isolated island, I’m stuck without a backup plan. The power is gone. The lights are out. And our worst nightmares are suddenly real―and out for blood.
Now the only way to survive is to align myself with one evil to avoid the other.

And the only thing worse than the idea of getting close to Jude? Secretly loving every minute of it.

Most schools are about being the best. This school? It’s about being the worst. Calder Academy is where the rogue paranormals go. The ones who break the rules or lose control. And when that happens for vamps, werewolves, witches, and dark fae? It gets pretty freaking scary.

I should know. Because I’m trapped here.

Look, every seventeen-year-old girl thinks their mom is a tyrant. But mine just happens to run Calder Academy, which paints a giant target on my back. The way I make it through these dark halls is by steering clear of the things―and kids―who go bump in the night.

Especially Jude Abernathy-Lee.

But when a freak storm hits our isolated island, I’m stuck without a backup plan. The power is gone. The lights are out. And our worst nightmares are suddenly real―and out for blood.
Now the only way to survive is to align myself with one evil to avoid the other.

And the only thing worse than the idea of getting close to Jude? Secretly loving every minute of it.

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Review

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Sweet Nightmare by Tracy Wolf is the first book of The Calder Academy. Set in the same world as the beloved Crave Series with Remy and Izzy characters tying in.

Readers follow Clementine Calder, whose family owns a detention like barding school. Paranormal teens are sent there after committing some sort of transgression.

Located on an island in the Golf of Mexico off the port of Galveston Tx. Clementine magic has been blocked just like the other students attending the academy her family owns. Jude Abernathy-Lee, and Clementine use to be friends now that don’t even talk. When the Hurricane season heats up and an impending catastrophic storm unleashes it’s vengeance. Jude and Clementine along with their found family will find themselves working together.

Tracy Wolf always gives readers exactly what they want. Solid world building and characters you can root for. This book will did not disappoint, and I am excited for the instamment in this new riveting book series.

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Author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Tracy Wolff is a lover of vampires, dragons, and all things that go bump in the night. A onetime English professor, she now devotes all her time to writing dark and romantic stories with tortured heroes and kick-butt heroines. She has written all her sixty-plus novels from her home in Austin, Texas, which she shares with her family

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Hello Gracious Readers,

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for

A Deadly Endeavor By Jenny Adams

Thanks to @tbrbeyondtours & @jadamswrites @crookedlanebooks

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Genre: Adult Historical Fiction/Mystery
Publishing date: March 5th, 2024

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

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SYNOPSIS

Philadelphia, 1921. When Edie Shippen returns home after spending years in California recovering from Influenza, she’s shocked to discover her childhood sweetheart is engaged to her twin sister. Heartbroken and adrift, Edie vows to begin living her life as a modern woman—and to hell with anyone who gets in her way. But as young women start to disappear from the city,  her newfound independence begins to feel dangerous.

Gilbert Lawless returned home from the Great War a shell of his former self. He hides away in the office of Philadelphia’s Coroner, content to keep to himself until a gruesome series of corpses come into the morgue. And when his sister, Lizzie, goes missing, he risks his career to beg help from the one person Lizzie seemed to her employer, Edie Shippen. 

Fearing the worst, Edie and Gilbert desperately search for clues. It soon becomes clear that Lizzie’s disappearance is connected to the deaths rocking the City of Brotherly Love… and it’s only a matter of time until the killer strikes again.

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REVIEW

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From the desk of Gwendalyn:

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.

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A Deadly Endeavor

By Jenny Adams

Thanks to @tbrbeyondtours & @jadamswrites @crookedlanebooks

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A deadly serial killer is on the lose, stalking highborn woman lowborn a like!

1921 Philadelphia Socialite Edie Shippen still suffering from the effects, has recently returned home from convalescing from influenza at her aunts home in sunny San Francisco California. Having lost her dear mother to high contagion, she is dealing with those emotions, as well as the ever occurring headaches left over from the sickness. Reluctantly she is in time to attend her former beau Theo and her twin sister Frances’ engament party.

Veteran Dr Gilbert Lawless, has come away from WW1 suffering from PTS. He find’s solitude in working as the coroner’s assistant manageable. When Edie’s maid, who happens to be Gilbert Lawless’s sister goes missing. Edie and Gilbert finds themselves teamed up together to find the vicious killer who is leaving dead bodies in his wake.

A delightful fun read, that features a murder mystery at the heart of a budding romance. The atmospheric imagery of the roaring twenties comes to life from the pen of Jenny Adams. Read if you enjoy a cozy mysteries with amateur sleuth dealing with trauma.

Happy Reading 🫶📖

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AUTHOR

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Jenny Adams has always had an overactive imagination. She turned her love of books and stories into a career as a librarian and author. She holds degrees in Medieval Studies and Library Science from The Ohio State University and Drexel University, and currently lives in Alexandria, Virginia with her family.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Hello and welcome to my stop on the blog tour for

The Devil and Mrs Davenport

By Paulette Kennedy

Thanks to @lakeunionauthors @pkennedywrites @OverTheRiverPR @amazonpublishing

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The Devil and Mrs Davenport

By Paulette Kennedy

March 5, 2024

@lakeunionauthors @pkennedywrites

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The bestselling author of The Witch of Tin Mountain and Parting the Veil mines the subtle horrors of 1950s America in a gripping novel about a woman under pressure—from the living and the dead.

SYNOPSIS

The first day of autumn brought the fever, and with the fever came the voices.

Missouri, 1955. Loretta Davenport has led an isolated life as a young mother and a wife to Pete, an ambitious assistant professor at a Bible college. They’re the picture of domestic tranquility—until a local girl is murdered and Loretta begins receiving messages from beyond. Pete dismisses them as delusions of a fevered female imagination. Loretta knows they’re real—and frightening.

Defying Pete’s demands, Loretta finds an encouraging supporter in parapsychologist Dr. Curtis Hansen. He sees a woman with a rare gift, more blessing than curse. With Dr. Hansen’s help, Loretta’s life opens up to an empowering new purpose. But for Pete, the God-fearing image he’s worked so hard to cultivate is under threat. No longer in control of his dutiful wife, he sees the Devil at work.

As Loretta’s powers grow stronger and the pleading spirits beckon, Pete is determined to deliver his wife from evil. To solve the mysteries of the dead, Loretta must first save herself.

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REVIEW

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From the desk of Gwendalyn

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.

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Paulette Kennedy once again pens a thought provoking tale. This time we follow Loretta Davenport in 1955, Missouri, a mother of two children Charlotte and Lucas. Her husband Peter is a professor at the local biblical college.

When she becomes ill with a fever and chills, along with strange hallucinations from restless spirits. These voices task her with solving murders that haven’t been able to be solved before. After she disclosing her unsettling experiences with her husband, she realizes he is not sympathetic to what is happening to her. He now believes that the only thing at work here is none other than the Devil himself.

Loretta turns to Dr. Curt Hansen, a local parapsychological therapist. Realizing that she stronger than she thought, she is able to stand up for herself.

When a local girl, Darcy Hayes goes missing, things are not at all what they seem. Certain secrets are brought to life, readers will find themselves guessing as the storyline unfolds.

Phenomenal atmospheric imagery of the 1950’s. Paulette Kennedy artfully captures the binds that were placed on woman during this time period. A wonderful read, that shows how some religion has a misogynistic stance on women. Along with how some men viewed their wife’s position in home and society. The pacing and the book’s characters were done well. Once I started reading I found I was unable to set it aside.

A great book that will be treasured in home library!

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AUTHOR

Hello everyone! I am so excited to share the gorgeous book cover

The Prisoner’s Throne by Holly Black.

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Synopsis:

An imprisoned prince. A vengeful queen. And a battle that will determine the future of Elfhame.

Prince Oak is paying for his betrayal. Imprisoned in the icy north and bound to the will of a monstrous new queen, he must rely on charm and calculation to survive. With High King Cardan and High Queen Jude ready to use any means necessary to retrieve their stolen heir, should Oak attempt to regain the trust of the girl he’s always loved, or remain loyal to Elfhame and hand over the means to end her reign-even if it means ending Wren, too…

With war looming and treachery lurking in every corner, neither Oak’s guile nor his wit will be enough to keep everyone he loves alive. He will have some terrible choices to make.

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black comes the stunning blood-soaked conclusion to the Stolen Heir duology.

Thanks to @Blackholly @tbrbeyondtours

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Author

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Holly Black is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of fantasy novels, including the Novels of Elfhame, THE COLDEST GIRL IN COLDTOWN, the Spiderwick Chronicles, and her adult debut, BOOK OF NIGHT. She has been a finalist for an Eisner Award and the Lodestar Award, and the recipient of the Mythopoeic Award, a Nebula, and a Newbery Honor. Her books have been translated into 32 languages worldwide and adapted for film. She currently lives in New England with her husband and son in a house with a secret library.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook | Pinterest

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for Where the Dark Stands Still by A.B. Poranek.  This tour is being hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours. 

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Where the Dark Stands Still by A.B. Poranek

Genre: Young Adult Gothic Fantasy 
Publishing date: February 27th, 2024

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Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

Rep: Polish, European 

Synopsis:

Raised in a small village near the spirit-wood, Liska Radost knows that Magic is monstrous, and its practitioners, monsters. After Liska unleashes her own powers with devastating consequences, she is caught by the demon warden of the wood – the Leszy – who offers her a bargain: one year of servitude in exchange for a wish.

Whisked away to his crumbling manor, Liska soon discovers the sinister roots of their bargain. And if she wants to survive the year and return home, she must unravel her host’s spool of secrets and face the ghosts of his past.

Those who enter the wood do not always return…

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Tour Schedule

https://tbrandbeyondtours.com/2024/01/09/tour-schedule-where-the-dark-stands-still-by-a-b-poranek/

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Review

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Where the Dark Stands Still by A.B. Poranek, is a lush old world fantasy based polish folklore.

Liska Radost has a secret, that she struggles to keep hidden from the other villagers of Stodoła. She can do magic, and has exceptional healing magical abilities. She wants nothing more that to be excepted, and considered a normal person. So she suppresses her magic and now it’s become explosive, and wild.

Her only chance of removing her gifts that she sees as curse, is to venture in the spirit wood known as the Driada. She goes there seeking out a fern flower that will grant her a wish. Hoping to remove all traces of her magic she takes a deadly chance as she enters the Dark Wood that is known for its creatures.

The Demon Warden of the woods, is a shape shifter, an antlered white stag immortal, named The Leszy. After making a bargain with the Demon, Liska is to serve him for one year, and at the end her wish will be granted. One year to live in his sentient old manor under the Rowan Tree. Where things are not as one wound expect for a Demon’s house, full of dark secrets.

Innovative world building and incisive character development,made for a compulsory book. Readers will find themselves in love with the the three dimensional characters, who’s growth was exceptional.

A.B. Poranek delivers quite a phenomenal, atmospheric, fantasy tale. An impressive magical system, with nightmarish creatures along with an old God, that is even more monstrous. The slow burn romance was depicted in such away that kept flipping the pages. Liska Radost was such a enjoyable character, her struggles and growth was extremely written well. So far she is my favorite character of 2024. The manor and its inhabitants, made me want find my own dark wood manor house and live out the last of my days there. The ending was everything and gave the tale so much depth and emotion.

This is one author that needs to be on your radar.

Nothing short of a Five Star’s rating on this book 📖

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Thanks to @simonteen @abporanek @tbrbeyondtours

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Author

A. B. Poranek grew up in Ontario, Canada but spent her summers in the Polish countryside, raiding her grandfather’s library and helping care for his chickens. Her love of animals led her to pursue a degree in Veterinary Medicine, though she never stopped writing along the way. She now lives in Versailles, France, where she spends her free time doodling and wrangling her void demon (read: cat), Neptune.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

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@gwendalynbooks.com

Hello Gracious Readers and welcome to my stop on the blog tour forMy Throat An Open Grave by Tori Bovalino

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Genre: Young Adult Horror
Publishing date: February 20th, 2024

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

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Synopsis

Labyrinth meets folk horror in this darkly romantic tale of a girl who wishes her baby brother away to the Lord of the Wood


Growing up in the small town of Winston, Pennsylvania feels like drowning. Leah goes to church every Sunday, works when she isn’t at school, and takes care of her baby brother, Owen. Like every girl in Winston, she tries to be right and good and holy. If she isn’t the Lord of the Wood will take her, and she’ll disappear like so many other girls before her.

But living up to the rigorous standards of the town takes its toll. One night, when Owen won’t stop screaming, Leah wishes him away, and the Lord listens. The screaming stops, and all that’s left in the crib is a small bundle of sticks tied with a ribbon.

Filled with shame and the weight of the town’s judgment, Leah is forced to cross the river into the Lord of the Wood’s domain to bring Owen back. But the devilish figure who has haunted Winston for generations isn’t what she expects. He tells her she can have her brother back—for the price of a song. A song that Leah will have one month to write.

It’s a bargain that will uncover secrets her hometown has tried to keep buried for decades. And what she unearths will have her questioning everything she’s been taught to fear.

Content Warning: Religious trauma, violence

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REVIEW

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My Throat an Open Grave” by Tori Bovalino is a YA horror novel set small town of small town of Winston, Pennsylvan

Winston, Pennsylvania is a deeply religious community that is heavily involved in systematic gender inequality.

We follow seventeen year old Leah who’s home life is troubled. She finds herself in a constant struggle to maintain the unattainable standards that have been placed on women in her small community. The responsibility of taking care of her little brother lays heavily on her shoulders.

When a terrible thing happens when Owen’s crying is inconsolable and Leah wishes her brother away. She finds herself tasked by the religious authorities to rescue her little brother from the clutches of Lord of the Wood. But not everything she was told is true about the lord of the Wood and she is surprised by what she actually finds.

A moving folk horror tale that had me glued to the pages. I was easily able to connect with the MC Leah, and the writing was solid. The found family is always one of my favorite troupes. I highly recommend this book to those looking for a great cottage core tale with a deeper meaning strung through out the storyline.

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Author

Tori Bovalino is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and currently lives in London. She holds a BA in English and anthropology from the University of Pittsburgh and an MA in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway, University of London. She is currently a student in Royal Holloway’s Creative writing
and practice-based PhD program. Tori is obsessed with chai tea, oversized sweaters, and talking about Pittsburgh.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Hello Gracious Readers and welcome to my stop on the blog tour for

A Place for Vanishing by Ann Fraistat

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A Place for Vanishing by Ann Fraistat

Genre:Young Adult Horror
Publishing date: January 16th, 2024

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

Rep: Mental illness, Bipolar Disorder

Synopsis

A teen girl and her family return to her mother’s childhood home, only to discover that the house’s strange beauty may disguise a sinister past, in this contemporary gothic horror from the author of What We Harvest.

The house was supposed to be a fresh start. That’s what Libby’s mom said. And after Libby’s recent bipolar III diagnosis and the tragedy that preceded it, Libby knows she and her family need to find a new normal.

But Libby’s new home turns out to be anything but normal. Scores of bugs haunt its winding halls, towering stained-glass windows feature strange, insectile designs, and the garden teems with impossibly blue roses. And then there are the rumors. The locals, including the mysterious boy next door, tell stories about disappearances tied to the house, stretching back over a century to its first owners. Owners who supposedly hosted legendary masked séances on its grounds.

Libby’s mom refuses to hear anything that could derail their family’s perfect new beginning, but Libby knows better. The house is keeping secrets from her, and something tells her that the key to unlocking them lies in the eerie, bug-shaped masks hidden throughout the property.

We all wear masks—to hide our imperfections, to make us stronger and braver. But if Libby keeps hers on for too long, she might just lose herself—and everyone she loves.

Content Warning:Mental illness themes, suicide attempt, horror themes

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REVIEW

A Place for Vanishing by Ann Fraistat is A YA gothic with a heady douse of creep. Rich in atmospheric prose, we follow Libby, who has recently been diagnosed with bipolar III following a suicidal attempt. Her mother moves her and her sister Vivi, back to their ancestral house Madame Clery’s House of Masks.

This book checked all my boxes, horror, unreliable narrator, paranormal. Strange family disappearance in the house over the years. Along with something menacing residing along with Libby and her mother and sister in the house. This book definitely kept me on my toes. If you enjoy horror this book is just what you need.

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AUTHOR

Ann Fraistat is an author, playwright, and narrative designer. Her debut novel is What We Harvest, out now with Delacorte Press, and her second book, A Place for Vanishing, is coming January 16, 2024. Her co-author credits include plays such as Romeo & Juliet: Choose Your Own Ending, and alternate reality games sponsored by the National Science Foundation. She lives in Maryland.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Hello Gracious Readers

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for Kissing Kate

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Kissing Kate

By K. Lyn Smith

• Series: Hearts of Cornwall (Book 4)

• Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance

• Publisher: Davenwood Press (January 23, 2024)

• Length: (306) pages

• Format: Trade Paperback, & eBook

• ISBN: ‎978-1737657989

• Book Tour Dates: January 15 – 29, 2024

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PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

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BOOK DESCRIPTION

“Benedick Kimbrell attempted to steal his first kiss from Miss Catherine Parker in the perfectly imperfect spring of 1808. But his hopes, then and since, were larger than fact.”

A LADY’S UNSPOKEN LONGING

Kate Parker is resolute in her quest for marriage, seeking a dependable match among Newford’s eligible bachelors. But behind her composed demeanor, Kate’s heart holds a stubborn affection for her less-than-dependable friend and an unspoken longing for a kiss that was never claimed.

A ROGUE’S LOST AMBITION

Years ago, Ben Kimbrell harbored ambitions, chief among them a kiss from Miss Kate Parker. Fate, though, had other plans. Now, his heart is weighted by family tragedy, his pain concealed behind a carefree charm. His reputation as an aimless rogue is well-earned, but beneath the façade lies a man who yearns for more.

AND A HEART WELL-GUARDED

When Kate sets her sights on Ben’s dependable cousin, a man who fits her expectations if not her heart, Ben can no longer stand idly by. His efforts to save her from a loveless match find the two of them paired together in a village production of Much Ado About Nothing. Tasked with crafting the enchanting sets for their town’s inaugural performance, their undeniable affection finds the perfect stage to blossom.

But for their love to flourish, Ben must reveal his true self and confront the shadows of his past. Can he find the courage to unlock his heart before it’s too late?

Kissing Kate is a heartwarming best-friends romance about finding the courage to choose happiness and the healing power of love. Set in the charming seaside village of Newford, each book in the Hearts of Cornwall series stands alone.

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PRAISE FOR KISSING KATE

• “I really enjoyed this book, and absolutely recommend it to historical romance readers who are looking for a “Hallmark” style read that offers real depth of character, beautiful Cornwall scenery, and a warm prosaic style.”— Bobbie Jo Fersten, Reading Historical Romance

• “A sweet installment in the Hearts of Cornwall Series… I loved the progression of their feelings as they deepened from friendship to romance…This was my first read by K. Lyn Smith and I would pick up more!”— Genesis Aleman, Geny Reads

• “The growth of Kate and Ben is so much fun to watch, and I enjoyed the entire construct of them getting ready to perform a play for their town along with the cousins and friends…Kissing Kate is such a warm hug of a read! I recommend it.”— Michelle, Tales Untangled

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REVIEW

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From the desk of Gwendalyn:

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.

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Kissing Kate by K. Lyn Smith is warmhearted tender romance.

The fourth installment in the Hearts of Cornwall Series, readers follow Miss Catherine Parker (Kate), and Benedick Kimbrell. It was a delight to return to the beautiful Cornish countryside. Set against the backdrop of a community production of “Much Ado About Nothing.” Which happens to be the first play for Newford’s new theatre.

It’s 1820 and twenty three year Kate has decided to take things into her own hands if she doesn’t want to end up a spinster. Her friend Ben, she considers unmarriageable, so she sets her sights on Ben’s cousin. All in all she experiences several failed attempts with Ben’s cousin, Merryn Kimbrell.

Ben has harbored a longing for the elegant Miss Kate for twelve long years. A longing to kiss the woman who he secretly is smitten with becomes elusive. His family drama and regrets way heavily on his shoulders.

An angsty, slow burn proper romance, filled with lovely characters, set in a village atmosphere . An irresistible, enjoyable read that will have readers rooting for Kate and Ben to finally have their chance for a warmhearted romance.

I enjoyed the details of a country village life, simple but so rewarding. The author’s rich descriptive writing helped me fall in love with the main Mc’s and sub-characters. A friends to enemies romance, along with complex family dynamics.

Recommend for readers who enjoy tender, proper romance’s with down to earth characters.

Happy Reading 📖🫶

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AUTHOR BIO

K. Lyn Smith lives in Birmingham, Alabama, where she writes sweet historical romance about ordinary people finding extraordinary love. Her debut novel, The Astronomer’s Obsession, was a finalist for the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award, while many of her other titles have been shortlisted for awards such as the American Writing Award, the Carolyn Reader’s Choice Award, the HOLT Medallion, and the Maggie Award.

When she’s not reading or writing, you can find her with family, traveling and watching period dramas. And space documentaries. Weird, right?

 

WEBSITE | X (FORMERLY TWITTER) | PINTERST | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM |GOODREADS

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READ OUR INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR K. LYN SMITH

K. Lyn shares her inspiration for the story and characters in Kissing Kate, the research process, and Regency era theater productions. Read the full interview here.

Hello Gracious Readers

Welcome to my stop on the Blog Tour for

The Ladies Rewrite the Rules: A Novel

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The Ladies Rewrite the Rules: A Novel

By Suzanne Allain

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• Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance

• Publisher: Berkley Romance (January 9, 2024)

• Length: (272) pages

• Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & Audiobook

• ISBN: ‎978-0593549643

• Book Tour Dates: January 8 – 22, 2024

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BOOK DESCRIPTION

From the author of Mr. Malcolm’s List comes a delightful romantic comedy set in Regency England about a widow who takes high society by storm.

Diana Boyle, a wealthy young widow, has no desire to ever marry again. Particularly not to someone who merely wants her for her fortune.

So, when she discovers that she’s listed in a directory of rich, single women she is furious, and rightly so. She confronts Maxwell Dean, the man who published the Bachelor’s Directory, and is horrified to find he is far more attractive than his actions have led her to expect. However, Diana is unmoved by Max’s explanation that he authored the list to assist younger sons like himself who cannot afford to marry unless it’s to a woman of means.

She gathers the ladies in the directory together to inform them of its existence, so they may circumvent fortune hunters’ efforts to trick them into marriage. Though outraged, the women decide to embrace their unique position of power and reverse the usual gender roles by making the men dance to their tune. And together…the ladies rewrite the rules.

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PRAISE FOR THE LADIES REWRITE THE RULES

• “Innovative…The novel’s true strength lies in the friendship between the bold heroines”— Publisher’s Weekly

• “A fun, light-hearted Regency romp about changing society from the inside.”—Kirkus Reviews

• “Joyful, warm and witty, this is a delight of a book.”— All About Romance

 

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REVIEW

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From the desk Gwendalyn Anderson

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This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.

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Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of, The Ladies Rewrite the Rules: A Novel by, Suzanne Allain, which is being hosted by Austenprose Pr.

The Ladies Rewrite the Rules: A Novel by Suzanne Allain, is a charming enemies to lovers regency romance, with a multiple layered plot.

When twenty-five year old widowed Diana Boyle learns that her name has been printed in the bachelor’s guide to Britain’s wealthy widows and spinster’s. She sets out to confront the man responsible for the publication of her name in the directory. Diana Boyle is enjoying her independent widowhood. Her substantial wealth allows her freedom that she takes seriously. So when she seeks out the man that is the center of her unwanted attention she is not prepared for the charming Maxwell Dean.

Diana along several other woman who’s name graces the pages of the directory, have decided to take things into their own hands. Working together they hash up a humorous plan that will flip the tables on gentleman who seek out women of means.

A splendidly written book, that focuses on the close bonds of female friendships. A delightful romance that captivated my attention from start to finish. Strong willed females, and lovely storyline with heartfelt characters makes for an enamoring read.

Happy Reading 🫶

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PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

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AUTHOR BIO

Suzanne Allain is a screenwriter who lived in New York and Beijing before returning to her hometown of Tallahassee, Florida, where she lives with her husband. Suzanne adapted her novel Mr. Malcolm’s List into a screenplay and it was made into a movie starring Freida Pinto, Theo James, Ṣọpẹ Dìrísù, and Zawe Ashton.

WEBSITE | X (Formerly Twitter) | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

Hello and welcome to my stop on the Blog Tour for

CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY By Katie Oliver

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Cyanide and Sensibility

By Katie Oliver

• Series: The Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery (Book 3)

• Genre: Amateur Sleuths, Cozy Mystery, Austenesque Fiction

• Publisher: Berkley (December 12, 2023)

• Length: (320) pages

• Format: Mass Market Paperback, eBook, & Audiobook

• ISBN: 978-0593337653‎

• Tour Dates: December 4 – 18, 2023

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

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BOOK DESCRIPTION

Murder is on the menu and Phaedra Brighton is called on to serve up justice in the latest Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery.

While Phaedra Brighton might not have a Mr. Darcy (yet), she’s quite content with her loving family and loyal cat. Phaedra’s sister Hannah is the Jane to her Elizabeth, and Phaedra is ecstatic that Hannah has decided to move home for her next adventure—opening a business.

All of Laurel Springs is out in full force to celebrate the grand unveiling of Hannah’s new patisserie, Tout de Sweet, including local celebrity Rachel Brandon. Hannah is a master of her craft, with confections so divine, one bite will make you think you’ve died and gone to heaven.

Of course, you never want that to happen literally.

When one of Hannah’s famous dark chocolate cupcakes sends Rachel’s assistant to the hospital with poisoning, Hannah begs for Phaedra’s help to save her reputation and budding business. But Phaedra has more questions than answers: Who was the cupcake actually meant for? And how far is the culprit willing to go to take their target off the menu—permanently?

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PRAISE FOR CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY

• “This is the first book I have read in the Jane Austen Tea Society series, but it won’t be my last…If you enjoy cozy mysteries, then this is a book you will enjoy.”— Book Looks by Lisa

• “The book is filled with great characters and a fun, twisty plot. Highly recommend.”— Cara Putnam, author of Come What May

• 5 STARS— Gwendalyn’s Books

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REVIEW

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.

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CYANIDE AND SENSIBILITY By Katie Oliver, the third installment in the Jane Austen Tea Society Mystery.

Hello Gracious Readers lets return to the fictional Virginia cozy mountain town of Laurel Springs.

It’s December and the cold and snowy weather set the backdrop for another engaging mystery. We follow Phaedra Brighton a Jane Austen scholar and English Lit professor, who also a successful amateur sleuth in her own right. Phaedra sister Hannah, is having a grand opening for her pastry shop in Laura’s Springs, Tout de Sweet. Phaedra is doing everything she can to support her sisters new endeavor. When a shocking crime places the blame on Hannah, involving one of her decadent dark chocolate cupcakes. It’s up to Phaedra to clear her sisters good name and restore the small Virginia town’s faith in the newest patisserie shop.

Katie Oliver brings the small Blue Ridge town of Laurel Springs vividly alive with her charming characters and her splendid writing. Nuisances of Jane Austen and Agatha Christie sprinkled into to create a heart warming recipe for this perfect cozy mystery book. A budding romance that doesn’t overshadow the authentic storyline makes this book such a wonderful book to read.

Make sure to grab your coziest blanket and pour yourself a hot cuppa, and settle in to enjoy Cyanide and Sensibility.

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AUTHOR BIO

Katie Oliver is known internationally as a writer of Jane Austen rom-coms with a hint of mystery. In the US and the UK, she is the bestselling author of the Dating Mr. Darcy and Marrying Mr. Darcy series.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X (FORMERLY TWITTER) | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

Hello Gracious Readers Welcome To My Stop On The Book Tour For

A Winter by the Sea By Julie Klassen

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A Winter by the Seam

By Author: Julie Klassen

Series: On Devonshire Shores (Book 2)

Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (December 5, 2023)

Length: (448) pages

Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & Audiobook

ISBN: 978-0764234286‎

Tour Dates: December 4 – 18, 2023

 

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BOOK DESCRIPTION

Royalty comes to Sidmouth, bringing unexpected danger and the sweet possibility of romance. . . .

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent and their daughter–the future Queen Victoria–rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal family’s male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they’ve invited secrets and intrigue into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers longs to become an author. A local publisher offers to consider her novel if she will first write a Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily agrees and begins researching the area with help from the Duke of Kent’s handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she’s long held dear and her budding dreams for the future.

Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.

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REVIEW

From The Desk Of Gwendalyn

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.

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A Winter by the Sea By Julie Klassen second installment in her charming On Devonshire Shores Series

Julie Klassen continues her delightful story of the Summers sisters along with their mother, who have Sidmouth a beautiful seaside town located in East Devon. Their reduction in funds has motivated them to open Sea View, a guest house for borders.

Set during the winter of 1819, which should have been a slower time, sees a surprise guest to the community of Sidmouth. England’s Prince Edward, his wife, and daughter Victoria arrive and have taken up residence at Woolbrook Cottage. Some of Dukes party of are lodging at Sea View. One in particular is the Duke’s private secretary, James Thomson. Mr. Thomson is captivated by Emily Summers, who literally dreams to become a notable writer seems to be at a standstill. Also to Emily’s confusion Charles Parker has returned, adding a proper love triangle. The two other boarders at Sea View that have accompanied the duke, are Antoine Bernardi the Prince’s Pastry Chief and the royal Keeper of The Plate, Selwyn During.

The Summer Sisters family Saga is such a rewarding reading experience. I treasured my time returning to Sidmouth shores and charming Sea View guest house.

Julie Klassen has written another richly detailed historical fiction, along with characters I have come to love and care about. The storyline involves Emily with Sarah as a tie in. Emily is so far my favorite Summer Sister, and I completely invested in her life, but I also was there for Sarah’s part. The royal family and future-Queen Victoria added so much to book. I am excited to read future books in this warm hearted and completely engaging book series.

☆☆☆☆☆

I highly recommend!

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PRAISE FOR A WINTER BY THE SEA

• “Enlivened by historical details of the royal family’s 1819 visit to Devonshire, the narrative is propelled forward by an irrepressible protagonist whose spunk will easily win readers’ sympathy. This breezy and delightful installment is sure to satisfy Klassen’s fans.”— Publisher’s Weekly

• “A Winter by the Sea is a story about finding your purpose and realizing that the things we hope and pray for…might not always be the things we truly need…
The On Devonshire Shores series is truly a delight.”— Lauren, The Books Script

• “Julie Klassen has provided such a beautiful escape with this series…I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series and will be highly anticipating book 3!!”— Tasha, Clean Read Book Club

 

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PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

 

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AUTHOR BIO

Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold more than 1.5 million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing’s Best Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full-time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS