Review: Proposing Mischief (The Joplin Chronicles, #2) by Regina Jennings

About the book:

Only one person can give her the freedom she seeks--but is it worth the risk?

Maisie Kentworth is being forced to stay on her parents' ranch. After a short-lived relationship with the wrong man, she's worried about inflaming things further between her former beau and her protective family. Left to rue her mistakes, she keeps busy exploring the idle mine at the edge of their property, where she discovers a great treasure.

Boone Bragg is also stuck. With his parents on vacation, the management of Bragg Mining falls on him, and one of his advisors wants him as a son-in-law. One wrong move, and Boone will end up either offending an associate or marrying a woman he can't endure.

While closing up a spent mine, Boone gets two surprises. One is a spitfire farm girl who's trespassing with a pickax, and the other is the amazing crystal cavern that she's discovered. Suddenly Boone sees a way to overhaul the family business. With part of the cavern on Kentworth land, Boone makes Maisie a proposal that he hopes will solve all of their problems. Instead it throws Joplin into chaos, and it will take all of Maisie's gumption to set things right. 

My rating:
4 stars
(View my rating system)

My thoughts:

Proposing Mischief was such a fun read! That's one opinion I kept having while reading- this is such a fun story. I loved getting to read Maisie's story and I found her adventurous spirit fantastic. 

 

The romance was good. It built slowly and seemed believable. I loved the cave and how it sounded so beautiful. 

All in all, Proposing Mischief was a great read and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Find the book on:
Amazon (aff link), Goodreads

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Review: Courting Misfortune (The Joplin Chronicles, #1) by Regina Jennings

About the book:

Her trickiest case depends on keeping her motives--and her heart--in disguise.

Calista York needs one more successful case as a Pinkerton operative to secure her job at the agency. When she's assigned to find the kidnapped daughter of a mob boss, she's sent to the rowdy mining town of Joplin, Missouri. With extended family in the area, Calista must conceal her profession if she hopes to recover the missing girl.

When Matthew Cook decided to be a missionary, he never expected to be sent only a short train ride away to Joplin. While fighting against corruption of all sorts, Matthew hears of a baby raffle being held to raise funds for a children's home. He'll do what he can to stop it, but he also wants to stop the reckless Miss York, whose bad judgment consistently puts her in harm's way.

Calista doesn't need the handsome pastor and her nosy family interfering with her investigation, no matter their intentions. A girl's life depends on her. If she doesn't find Lila Seaton soon, the constant meddling could have dire consequences.

My rating:
4 stars
(View my rating system)

My thoughts:

Courting Misfortune was a fun historical romance! Stories about Pinkerton Detectives are always intriguing to me, so I was eager to pick up this one.

The characters were great and I was curious to see how the mystery would play out. There was a twist that I didn't see coming. 

All in all, Courting Misfortune was enjoyable to read and held my attention. I recommend it to fans of the genre. Looking forward to continuing the series.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Find the book on:
Amazon (aff link), Goodreads

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Review: The Devoted Life: A Creative Devotional Journal by Marjorie Jackson

About the book:

Come Experience It for Yourself. . . Life Is Good with a God Who Is Great!

This topically guided creative journal for teen girls offers inspiration and encouragement for those who desire to live their lives fully devoted to Christ. Amidst the loud, confusing voices of the world, trying to tell them which way is the right way to go, girls need to stop, rest, refuel, and reflect in the presence of their truest Friend and most loyal heavenly Father. Whether it’s through creativity, meditating on scripture, prayer, or writing, readers will join young author and artist, Marjorie Jackson, for a time of life-giving fun, faith-strengthening encouragement, and God-glorifying growth. As girls connect with their first love, Jesus, they will begin to understand that life is truly good with a God who is absolutely great! 

My rating:
5 stars
(View my rating system)

My thoughts:

I read this book at the same time as Devoted: A Girl’s 31-Day Guide to Good Living with a Great God. I feel like both books were great reads. 

Devoted Life was an amazing devotional. As with the book Devoted, I believe it is aimed for girls and young women, but I think women of any age can find some encouragement and truth in this book.

The devotions in this book felt shorter (maybe 1-2 pages) and then 1-2 pages of journal prompts with room to write your answers. They also featured 3 Bible passages for going deeper and some art pages for coloring. 

All in all, a great book and I recommend it.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Find the book on:
Amazon (aff link), Goodreads

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I Can't Wait for... (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)

This post may contain “affiliate links.” This means if you click on a link with my affiliate code and purchase an item(s), I will receive an affiliate commission. You won't be charged extra, I'll just receive a small percentage of the purchase price. See my disclosure page here.

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine.

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About the book:

At the height of World War I, two

sweethearts face impossible odds in this powerful tale of courage, duty, and heartbreak.

In the summer of 1918, Captain Marcus Weatherford arrives in Russia on a secret mission, with a beautiful ballerina posing as his fiancée. He's there to find the Romanov tsarina and her son and glean information about a plot to assassinate Lenin. As the danger intensifies, Marcus's sense of duty battles with his desire to return home to Clare, the woman he truly loves, before it's too late.

Military hospital orderly Clare Danner still suffers from Marcus's betrayal after learning he's engaged to another woman. Clare also fears losing her daughter, Daisy, to the heartless family who took her away once before. Only Marcus can provide the critical proof needed to save Daisy, but when an injury leaves him powerless to help, Clare's fate--and the fate of the top-secret mission--hangs in the balance.

Pages: 400
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: December 13, 2022
ISBN-10:  0764237497
Find the book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3euubPV (aff link)

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Review: Legacy of Mercy by Lynn Austin

About the book:

She Knew Her New Life Would Not Be Easy,

But Nothing Could Prepare Her For What Waits Ahead

Having returned to Chicago, young socialite Anna Nicholson can't seem to focus on her upcoming marriage. The new information she's learned about her birth mother continues to pull at her, and she hires Pinkerton detectives to help her discover the whole truth.

But as she meets people who once knew her mother and hears stories about the past, Anna soon discovers that some secrets are better left hidden. With pressure mounting to keep the past quiet, she discovers daily that her choice to seek God's purpose for her life isn't as simple as she had hoped.

When things are at their darkest, Anna knows she can turn to her grandmother, Geesje de Jonge, back in Holland, Michigan. Geesje's been helping new Dutch immigrants--including a teen with a troubled history--adjust to America. She only hopes that her wisdom can help all these young people through the turmoil they face.

My rating:
5 stars
(View my rating system)

My thoughts:

Legacy of Mercy was just as amazing as book one. I grew to love these characters and was so happy that their story continued on in this book.

The romance was good. I was hoping for a happily ever after and think this book delivered that. I was intrigued by the mystery of her mom and the events surrounding her past. I was surprised by certain aspects and couldn't read fast enough. 

All in all, Legacy of Mercy was a fantastic read and I definitely recommend it. I'm hoping for another book with these characters as I'm not ready to say goodbye yet.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Find the book on:
Amazon (aff link), Goodreads

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I Can't Wait for... The Sisters of Sea View (On Devonshire Shores #1) by Julie Klassen (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)

This post may contain “affiliate links.” This means if you click on a link with my affiliate code and purchase an item(s), I will receive an affiliate commission. You won't be charged extra, I'll just receive a small percentage of the purchase price. See my disclosure page here.

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine.

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About the book:

Some guests have come for a holiday, others for hidden reasons of their own . . .

When their father's death leaves them impoverished, Sarah Summers and her genteel sisters fear they will be forced to sell the house and separate to earn livelihoods as governesses or companions. Determined to stay together, Sarah convinces them to open their seaside home to guests to make ends meet and provide for their ailing mother. Instead of the elderly invalids they expect to receive, however, they find themselves hosting eligible gentlemen. Sarah is soon torn between a growing attraction to a mysterious Scottish widower and duty to her family.

Viola Summers wears a veil to cover her scar. When forced to choose between helping in her family's new guest house and earning money to hire a maid to do her share, she chooses the latter. She reluctantly agrees to read to some of Sidmouth's many invalids, preferring the company of a few elders with failing eyesight to the fashionable guests staying in their home. But when her first client turns out to be a wounded officer in his thirties, Viola soon wishes she had chosen differently. Her new situation exposes her scars--both visible and those hidden deep within--and her cloistered heart will never be the same.

Join the Summers sisters on the Devonshire coast, where they discover the power of friendship, loyalty, love, and new beginnings.

Pages: 448
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: December 6, 2022
ISBN-10: 0764234269

Find the book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3AU4MGS (aff link)

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Review: Devoted: A Girl’s 31-Day Guide to Good Living with a Great God by Marjorie Jackson

About the book:

Life is good with a God who is great!

What’s a girl to do in a changing world full of darkness, distractions, pressure, lies, and uncertainty? Is it really possible for a twenty-first-century young woman to live a life in direct contrast to culture’s ever-changing standards? The answer is yes! 

With a Lord like Jesus, guidance like the Holy Spirit’s, and that powerful weapon we call the Holy Bible, God’s truth is ours to live out. Come learn along with talented young author, Marjorie Jackson, in this devotional about letting our love and dedication to Jesus penetrate every area of life—our relationships, our decisions, our standards, our convictions, our priorities, our everything.

Whether you’re a long-time Christian or you’ve still got your spiritual training wheels on, get ready to dive into God’s Word and discover what it truly means to be a young woman of God who is completely, joyfully, beautifully different.

Special Features Include:

Unique Hand-Lettered Art Pages for Coloring

Key Scripture Verses

Personal/Small Group Study Questions

My rating:
5 stars
(View my rating system)

My thoughts:

"God knew about today before it ever happened. He knew about yesterday. He has a purpose for every event in our lives, good or bad. Sometimes, though, it takes great patience to see how He "causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28)". -Devoted, Page 172

"Our future on earth is short; what about eternity-forever and ever? Praise the Lord, we know who's King during and after this messy life." -Devoted, Page 172

Devoted was an amazing devotional. I believe it is aimed for girls and young women, but I think women of any age can find some encouragement and truth in this book.

I loved how it was written. Each daily devotion started with a scripture verse, then the devotion, 3 personal (or group) questions, and then ended with a "Today's Challenge". The book also featured some great art pages for coloring, if you wish.

All in all, I thought this book was great and recommend it.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Find the book on:
Amazon (aff link), Goodreads

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Review: Worthy of Legend (The Secrets of the Isles, #3) by Roseanna M. White

About the book:

1906

After a summer of successful pirate-treasure hunting, Lady Emily Scofield and her friends must hide the unprecedented discoveries they've made, thanks to the betrayal of her own family. Horrified by her brother, who will stop at nothing to prove himself to their greedy father, Emily is forced to take a stand against her family--even if it means being cut off entirely.

Bram Sinclair, Earl of Telford, is fascinated with tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table--an interest he's kept mostly hidden for the last decade. But when a diary is unearthed on the islands that could lead to a secret artifact, Bram is the only one able to piece the legends together.

As Bram and Emily seek out the whereabouts of the hidden artifact, they must dodge her family and a team of archaeologists. In a race against time, it is up to them to decide what makes a hero worthy of legend. Is it fighting valiantly to claim the treasure . . . or sacrificing everything in the name of selfless love? 

My rating:
4 stars
(View my rating system)

My thoughts:

Worthy of Legend was a unique story and one that I enjoyed reading. I found Bram and Emily's relationship to be sweet and I was happy that she had someone to care for her when she needed it most.

The treasure hunt aspect was interesting and I liked how quickly that aspect moved along. It made the story easy to read and one that you didn't want to put down for long.

All in all, Worthy of Legend was a good read and conclusion to this series. I really enjoyed it and look forward to seeing what Roseanna M. White writes next. 

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

Find the book on:
Amazon (aff link), Goodreads

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Weekend Wrap-Up (September 9th, 2022)

Weekend Wrap-up is where I share what I read this past week, am currently reading, and my reading plans for the coming week. 

Feel free to join along and post your own Weekend Wrap-up on your blog/site (if you do, please leave the link in a comment so I can stop by) or, in a comment, share what you've read this past week. :)

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This post may contain “affiliate links.” This means if you click on a link with my affiliate code and purchase an item(s), I will receive an affiliate commission. You won't be charged extra, I'll just receive a small percentage of the purchase price. See my disclosure page here.

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I Can't Wait for... Engaging Deception (The Joplin Chronicles Book #3) by Regina Jennings (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)

This post may contain “affiliate links.” This means if you click on a link with my affiliate code and purchase an item(s), I will receive an affiliate commission. You won't be charged extra, I'll just receive a small percentage of the purchase price. See my disclosure page here.

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine.

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About the book:

A lively competition draws her into her rival's blueprints--and maybe even his heart.

Olive Kentworth has spent her life hiding her interest in architecture, even though she pores over architectural books and sketches buildings. When she accepts a job on a home expansion, it's only because her cousin Amos agrees to pose as the builder. To further hide her involvement, Olive takes a position as a nanny--not knowing that she'll be working for her idol, Joplin's leading architect, widower Maxfield Scott.

Maxfield is intrigued by his new nanny--she makes his home and his life bearable again. His work, on the other hand, is a disaster. An untrained builder is remodeling a completed project of his. What's worse, Maxfield's current client wants changes to his plans because of that builder's work.

As the architectural one-upmanship heats up, Olive's involvement becomes harder to hide. Will the relationship between her and Maxfield survive, or will they both miss out on building something for their future?

Pages: 320
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: December 13, 2022
ISBN-10:  0764235362
Find the book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3x243SO (aff link)

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September 6: Books I Loved So Much I Had to Get a Copy for My Personal Library (Top Ten Tuesday)

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~Books I Loved So Much I Had to Get a Copy for My Personal Library~

(in no particular order)

This post contains “affiliate links.” This means if you click on a link with my affiliate code and purchase an item(s), I will receive an affiliate commission. You won't be charged extra, I'll just receive a small percentage of the purchase price. See my disclosure page here.

1. The Pawn by Steven James | Amazon Link

2. The Rook by Steven James | Amazon Link

3. The Knight by Steven James | Amazon Link

4. The Bishop by Steven James| Amazon Link

5. Growing Strong by Cambria Joy | Amazon Link

6. Nothing but Trouble by Susan May Warren | Kindle Edition Collection |  Amazon Link

7.  Double Trouble by Susan May Warren | Kindle Edition Collection | Amazon Link

8. Licensed for Trouble by Susan May Warren | Kindle Edition Collection | Amazon Link

9. A Dime a Dozen by Mindy Starns Clark | Amazon Link

10. A Quarter for a Kiss by Mindy Starns Clark | Amazon Link

Let me know some of your books in a comment below. :)

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