romance

Free and bargain books March 07, 2021

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We have books and cowboys are front and center, so far. BookRunes is behind this FREE suggestion.

I see I’ve downloaded four books from this author and read none of them. Mind you, when you see how many books are in my TBR pile you can tell it’s not the authors fault she’s languishing in the waiting room. I promise this one will be next.

It’s a good thing two of the previous downloads are part of this collection. Two birds with one stone.

Brothers of Miller Ranch Box Set: Contemporary Western Romance (Miller Family Saga Book 1)

Amazon quote:

Her Second Chance Cowboy
When Ben accompanies his mother to an old friend’s funeral…the last person he expects to see is her. Ben and Chastity were high school sweethearts whose three-year relationship ended dramatically. But they were once in the head-over-heels, can’t-breathe-without-you kind of love. And now, they suddenly find themselves pushed into each other’s lives again in the most surprising of circumstances.

Saving Her Cowboy
After surviving a few combat fights in the military, Bart Miller is suffering from a severe case of PTSD. Then he meets the new employee at his family’s ranch, Missy. She may just be the only person who can help Bart begin his journey to healing. But will Mrs. Miller see it that way? Especially since Missy is somewhat off limits as an employee at the Miller Ranch…

Her Rival Cowboy
Danielle thinks Benji’s just the arrogant, rich cowboy from the rival ranch down the road. So when he shows up on her family’s ranch offering help after it suffered a big fire, she’s less than cordial. Benji can’t figure out why she seems to hate his guts for no good reason. Now he must decide if he wants to look past her attitude to do the right thing, or let her sour disposition chase him off…

Her Fake-Fiance Cowboy
Sophia Hernandez is on the run from her past. Then, out of nowhere, like a knight in shining armor, Bradley Miller shows up and runs off the man who has been haunting all of her dreams. And her world is suddenly turned upside down. Together, maybe the two of them can defeat the shadow lurking over Sophia’s life. But doing so means trusting again, and some things are too impossible a task.

Taming Her Cowboy Billionaire
Bryant Miller is a cowboy billionaire who thinks he has it all. Keiko Albryte is out to prove him wrong. But although Keiko’s life looks perfect on the outside, she has a few struggles of her own, which Bryant soon finds out about. Even so, Bryant still doesn’t seem to be deserving of a good woman like her. Will their hurts combined be too volatile together? Or will they be just right for each other…

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Author Chautona Havig mentioned this bargain on her Facebook page. I’ve not read this author but would love to try.

Far Side of the Sea

Amazon quote:

In spring 1918, Lieutenant Colin Mabry, a British soldier working with MI8 after suffering injuries on the front, receives a message by carrier pigeon. It is from Jewel Reyer, the woman he once loved and who saved his life–a woman he believed to be dead. Traveling to France to answer her urgent summons, he desperately hopes this mission will ease his guilt and restore the courage he lost on the battlefield.

Colin is stunned, however, to discover the message came from Jewel’s half sister, Johanna. Johanna, who works at a dovecote for French Army Intelligence, found Jewel’s diary and believes her sister is alive in the custody of a German agent. With spies everywhere, Colin is skeptical of Johanna, but as they travel across France and Spain, a tentative trust begins to grow between them.

When their pursuit leads them straight into the midst of a treacherous plot, danger and deception turn their search for answers into a battle for their lives.

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I’m not doing so well on the reading front, I’m still in the current read from yesterday. Too many other things grabbing my attention today. Things like Facebook friends, Amazon Kindle store, singer/songwriter Jimmy Yeary’s music podcast on Facebook. I’d share his recent podcast with special guest Ronnie Bowman but sadly, the link can’t be shared on this platform. Oh well.

A Still Small Voice 

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OK, I’m off to read while I have lunch.

It’s 2:50 pm lol

Food doesn’t seem to be all that important while I’m having fun.

Happy Reading y’all.

Free book March 03, 2021

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BookRunes has a FREE suggestion for us from an author unknown to me. The first few paragraphs are well written and the cover is beautiful. It’s short and it’s free so what’s to know. I’ll take a chance.

Bachelor Buttons: A Novella of the Civil War 

Amazon quote:

The daughter of immigrants who fled the Irish Potato Famine, Rose Meehan longs for a better life than the tenements of New York City.

Courted by two men–a young doctor who represents material security, and a poor violin instructor who has captured her heart–she must choose between the two.

When Manhattan explodes in mob rule following Lincoln’s unpopular draft, Rose’s decision could mean the difference between life and death.

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Currently I’m reading and enjoying ….

A Still Small Voice by Rachel C Duncan

Amazon quote:

Jerusalem, an ancient city, is a land cloaked in mystery, legend, and intrigue. Within the heart of this age-old city dwells a lovely young woman – Julia, as whimsical and restless as the great city itself, her head filled with dreams of adventure and romance, her vision clouded by a daring young man of striking countenance, flashing eyes, and broad shoulders.

Residing in a magnificent villa nestled comfortably within the imperial Upper City, Julia knows no other life than the plush, comfortable one she shares with her mother, her wealthy merchant father, and a vast array of household staff to meet her every need.

Will her perfect world be shattered if she insists upon wedding the handsome guard who protects her father’s wares? Will her parents approve of the reckless man with whom she has fallen hopelessly in love?

A Still Small Voice weaves an entrancing tapestry of the masterfully crafted, God-ordained events that forever changed the course of history.

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It looks like my next post, aside from tomorrow’s story prompt, needs to be about books read . They are accumulating again. Not sure how that keeps happening. I guess I should be glad it does.

It hasn’t been a great day for new books but at least there was one.

Happy Reading …

… on this warm Saturday.

7c after our days of heavy cold is wonderful. The snow is melting quickly. The downside of this is yard work starts early, I’m not sure if I’m over last years yard work yet.

Oh. well, think of the muscles I’ll grow, digging and pulling.

I’m not sure that thought makes it better 🙂

Seriously though, I’m grateful for the exercise. Keeps me healthy.

This resonates with me

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A short interview on a timely topic, for me anyway. It feels to me like this should be shared.

Coffee break is awesome today. This video is part of an interview series I’ve been following and this man is very wise. The series is based on a book he’s written, so there you go, we still have books to think about.

This resonates with me because past buried, horrendous, memories still plague me in the form of triggers. I’ve come a long way in the last decade but there is still more to be done and I appreciate any resource crossing my path.

I share because it touches me but also because someone else may need to hear this as well.

Wishing you the very best in your healing journey.

Free and bargain books March 01, 2021

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1531 Entertainment is suggesting a Karen Kingsbury novel

Hannah’s Hope (The Red Gloves Book 4) 

Amazon quote:

Raised in a political family, 15-year-old Hannah Roberts lives a lonely life with her wealthy, unaffectionate grandmother while her parents work abroad.

As Christmas nears, Hannah learns a shocking truth: the man she believed was her father is not her parent after all. In an effort to find answers, she begins a desperate search for her real father, Air Force pilot Mike Conner, who she discovers to be the man of her distant childhood memories.

Local politicians and the city’s newspaper catch wind of her quest, and the entire state joins in Hannah’s hope that she’ll find her father before Christmas.

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BookBub has a FREE suggestion for us that looks interesting.

Promise of Hope (Holiday Family Christian Romance Book 2)

Amazon quote:

At her mother’s insistence, Haley keeps her cancer diagnosis a secret from Gavin. For his own protection. Haley must hide the terrible truth from him… that she can never be the wife he deserves–a mother to his children. She disappears with no explanation, leaving both of them heartbroken. 

Now, with her cancer in remission, Haley lands a job with Holiday, Inc., where Gavin works. She still loves him, but he’s moved on. Or at least she thought he had. Turns out he’s still single, and his dad puts Haley on Gavin’s team. She tries to keep her distance, but their Basset Hounds bring them together. She concentrates her efforts on hiding the truth… about her cancer and her feelings.

Can they get past years of hurt and distrust to find forgiveness and love?

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Another FREE BookBub suggestion

Hannah’s Holiday Wish: Wyatt Ranch Romance (Serenity Falls Book 1) 

Amazon quote:

When a cowgirl comes home, two unexpected surprises turn her life upside-down. Could an identity switch and an inheritance lead to Hannah’s happily-ever-after?

♥ When Hannah Wyatt returns home to her family’s Colorado ranch for the holidays, she thinks the biggest surprise is a gift that her parents have waiting for her and her four siblings.

Little does she know that her British pen-pal is about to add a twist to the homecoming!

Especially when she realizes that the British friend she thought she knew is ready to unveil a shocking revelation…one that has the ability to throw an additional wrench into Hannah’s new life equation.

When the handsome Rafferty arrives on her doorstep instead of her pen-pal, Rosalind- major questions are in need of answers!

Will Hannah’s unexpected twist turn into her happily-ever-after?

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It looks like Hannah is a popular name today and H is popular too. It’s funny how that works sometimes.

Currently… I’m still trying to figure out what to read next. The number of tasted but not pursued is growing. I’ll let you know tomorrow how that’s working out for me.

It’s been a few days since I’ve downloaded any of the new books. Hmmmm, There are probably a dozen fresh choices right there. Tempting thought. I’ll let you in on the decision tomorrow,

Happy Reading y’all

More bargain books February 26th

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A few more books to get us though the weekend. If you are still hunkering down like me we need good books to help get us through.

This first one has a cover I’ve seen before but I can’t remember with which author. I haven’t decided if I should download this (I’ve already got so many) but I don’t want to forget about it either.

Her Second Chance Cowboy: Contemporary Western Romance Novel (Brothers of Miller Ranch Book 1)

Amazon quote:

When Ben accompanies his mother to an old friend’s funeral…the last person he expects to see is her.

As the eldest son of the wealthy Miller family, Ben Miller is content with helping his brothers run their family’s ranch in Montana. Well… mostly content. There’s a certain something missing from his life, and he’s done a good job denying it for the past decade. Until she rolled back into town…

After ten years fighting to make it in the Big Apple, full-figured Chastity finds herself heading back to the one place she vowed she’d never return. But a tragedy in the family forced her home, and she finds herself facing an uncertain future.

Ben and Chastity were high school sweethearts whose three-year relationship ended dramatically. But they were once in the head-over-heels, can’t-breathe-without-you kind of love. And now, they suddenly find themselves pushed into each other’s lives again in the most surprising of circumstances.

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Saving Her Cowboy: Contemporary Western Romance (Brothers of Miller Ranch Book 2)

Amazon quote:

He’s the man. He should be saving her. But instead, she’s the one saving him.

After surviving a few combat fights in the military, Bart Miller is suffering from a severe case of PTSD. No matter how hard he tries, life on the ranch just isn’t the same anymore. His family thinks he’s improving, but they don’t know about the night terrors that plague him almost every night.

Ever since Missy got laid off her beloved job as a veterinary technician, she’s struggling to make ends meet. No one wants to hire her in their small town since they associate her with her Dad, who was the town drunk. Then Mrs. Miller offers her a job at the wealthy Miller Ranch—making fifteen dollars an hour!

Strangers in the night both trying to find their way, Bart and Missy end up meeting in the most unlikely of circumstances. Missy may just be the only person who can help Bart begin his journey to healing. But will Mrs. Miller see it that way? Especially since Missy is somewhat off limits as an employee at the Miller Ranch…

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This morning author Margaret Daley mentioned a Lyn Cote bargain I don`t have and am excited to see. (I have downloaded and enjoyed many of Lyn Cote books.)

Amy’s Forever Love: Heartwarming Faith-filled Romance (New Neighbor Lane Book 1)

Amazon quote:

Can a basset hound, two kittens and twin girls succeed as matchmakers?

Even though Amy Broussard is their aunt, her twin little girls call her “mom.” In the midst of a harsh winter, Amy is helping build her Habitat for Humanity home, just the security she’s always wanted for her girls. But one frigid evening on their way to the church potluck, she and her girls find two orphaned kittens.

And there she meets the local veterinarian and surprises him by volunteering to adopt the kittens on the spot, fulfilling another promise to her girls. The vet’s basset hound Bummer in turn surprises everyone by instantly “adopting” the two golden tabbies too!

From then on, like it or not, Amy and the vets’ lives intersect with the “help” of Bummer and the twins. Yet before love can bloom, both adults must work through a winter of heart-healing as family secrets and grudges are unraveled.

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OK, so I caved and downloaded the first one too.

I wonder if there will be a third post today.

I hope not. I have a feeling I’ve gone way over budget on book downloads this month.

Happy Reading!!

Bargain books February 26, 2021

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We have a Historical/Cowboy theme going on here today in the bargain books showing up in the browsing windows. This is a one thing leads to another kind of day but, as long as interesting books show up, in my opinion, it doesn’t really matter how we find them.

We have the first three books in the Baxter Boys series by Jesse Gussman. I haven’t read this author yet but the first few pages in book 3 looked pretty interesting.

Always With You (Baxter Boys Book 1) A Sweet, Second Chance Romance

Amazon quote:

One night changed everything…

Cassidy Kimbell killed a man when she was only nineteen.

Torque Baxter took the blame, serving ten years for her crime.

He told her to flee the scene of the accident. He told her to run. He told her to keep her mouth shut, so that’s what she’d done. She’d let a boy with a crush become an innocent man behind bars.

Today, that man is being released.

Cassidy expects Torque to hate her. She knows nothing she has done to atone all these years can compare to what he’s lost. But she hopes becoming his sponsor on the outside, especially since she’s a lawyer now, might help.

Little does she know, Torque doesn’t want her to owe him.

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The Baxter Boy’s Silence (Baxter Boys Book 2) Sweet Contemporary Romance

Amazon quote:

An energetic philanthropist and a quiet mechanic are thrown together through a car accident. But the mechanic has a secret and the philanthropist has a fiancé. When the secret is exposed, the philanthropist must make a choice: will she choose love over money?

Kelly Irwin just wants to help children like she used to be—underprivileged, hungry, and with a family so mixed up she wasn’t sure who she really belonged to. None of them wanted the responsibility to raise her. She’s convinced herself that she loves her fiancé and that they’ll make a great team.

Tough Baxter is trying to establish his business and keep his side job a secret. After all, most people don’t think that a man who can barely string two sentences together in the presence of a woman would make a very good relationship advice columnist. Then Kelly moves her children’s center next door to his garage and suddenly not only are his plans to expand his shop wrecked, but his secret is in danger of being exposed.

After spending time with Tough working and helping kids, Kelly can’t deny the attraction she feels for the soft-spoken mechanic. But she has a fiancé and a life plan which doesn’t include Tough, so she turns to the advice columnist all of America is writing to. Will he tell her to follow her heart or pursue her dream?

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The Baxter Boy’s Secret (Baxter Boys Book 3) Sweet Contemporary Romance 

Amazon quote:

She doesn’t laugh. He can’t be serious. How will they ever work together?

County librarian Harris Winsted can’t believe she lost her leading man. No. What she really can’t believe is that her friends think Harris’s childhood nemesis, Turbo Baxter, might be able to play the part. Even if it is just a small production to raise money for a hospital library, Turbo’s class-clown personality makes him a disastrous choice.

However opening night is three short weeks away. Left with Turbo as her only option, she can only hope he suddenly develops a brain, decorum and a big boil on his handsome face, because when the guy decides to be charming, he is irresistible. But the attraction stops there. She could never be with a man who professes his hatred of libraries and laughs about never reading a book.

Turbo Baxter always knew the harmless pranks he’d pulled over the years might catch up to him, but he never expected his brothers, and their wives, would seek revenge by blackmailing him. But, without another choice, he agrees to their terms: one stuffy librarian’s play in exchange for free repairs to his rig. He’s ready to get back on the road and away from books, libraries, and, most of all, beautiful librarians who are in desperate need of a good laugh.

Can two opposites overcome their differences and fall in love?

His joking nature masks a dark secret. Will she turn away if he trusts her with the one thing that could make her hate him?

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Today’s line-up started with 1531 Entertainment’s suggestion of a book I own but haven’t read. I may have to change that.

The Cowboy’s Best Friend (Sweet Water Ranch Western Cowboy Romance Book 1)

Amazon quote:

Palmer wouldn’t trade his family’s land for the world. But the only way to save the ranch from financial disaster and claim his billion-dollar inheritance is to find himself a wife. His happily-ever-after would be complete if he could just hitch his wagon to the woman who sees him only as her best friend.

Ames’ free spirit can’t be tied down. So she’s more than willing to help Palmer find the perfect bride before she takes off to pursue her dreams in LA. But every time she thinks about the rugged cowboy with another girl, her heart burns with jealousy.

Though Palmer tries to enjoy his new match-made companions, he can’t keep his mind off Ames. And now he worries her wanderlust is blinding her to what’s right in front of her eyes.

Can Palmer and Ames find the truth in their hearts before it’s too late?

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I’m expecting to see a few more bargain books yet today, I think I’ll save them for another post.

In the meantime, enjoy these ones.

Happy Reading….

… on this warm Friday morning. It’s 0 c, how great is that! It’s no longer freezing, for the moment anyway. I’d better get to the grocery store quickly before the weather changes it’s mind. Happy Friday!

Free and Bargain books February 23, 2021

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Before I get into book suggestions I want to introduce you to a first time blogger, I hope you will encourage her as much as I have been trying to. She is no stranger to the writing world but blogging is all new for her. I’ve been pushing her on this because I know she has lots to say and that’s what blogging is all about. Having something to say. Her post will show up right after this one goes live.

I’m not sure how many book suggestions I’ll be able to find but I can start with an interesting historical story I found while browsing. It goes way back, to the days of the early Roman Empire. I’ve not read this author before and I’m looking forward to it.

A Still Small Voice 

Amazon quote:

A TIMELESS BIBLICAL TRUTH

Jerusalem, an ancient city, is a land cloaked in mystery, legend, and intrigue. Within the heart of this age-old city dwells a lovely young woman – Julia, as whimsical and restless as the great city itself, her head filled with dreams of adventure and romance, her vision clouded by a daring young man of striking countenance, flashing eyes, and broad shoulders.

Residing in a magnificent villa nestled comfortably within the imperial Upper City, Julia knows no other life than the plush, comfortable one she shares with her mother, her wealthy merchant father, and a vast array of household staff to meet her every need.

Will her perfect world be shattered if she insists upon wedding the handsome guard who protects her father’s wares? Will her parents approve of the reckless man with whom she has fallen hopelessly in love?

she has fallen hopelessly in love?

A Still Small Voice weaves an entrancing tapestry of the masterfully crafted, God-ordained events that forever changed the course of history.

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This one is an LPCBooks FREE suggestion that wouldn’t show up for me yesterday on Amazon.

Hope’s Gentle Touch

Amazon quote:

After her abusive husband’s death, Misty Stephens returns to her job as a nurse and volunteer at a women’s shelter. She intends to put her life back together and has no intention of ever being vulnerable to a man again. But when an abuse victim dies in her care, Misty finds herself consoling the girl’s brother … and fighting attraction.

Adam Jenkins sees Misty’s heart for the oppressed and implores her to help build Hope House, a women’s shelter, in honor of his sister. Though grieving, Adam is drawn to Misty. But he approaches romance the way he does ranching—quick and decisive—an almost disastrous mistake. While dealing with family fallout and troubles at work, this new project and Misty become a light shining into Adam’s grief.

A common purpose binds them together, and Misty’s heart starts to open to Adam. But she finds it much harder to lower her defenses than she imagined. Can any man be fully trusted—especially a powerful, wealthy rancher? When the past rears its ugly head and her reality starts to crumble, Misty’s trust in God and hope for a bright future are put to the test. Will hope’s gentle touch finally bring the love Misty’s heart needs to heal?

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Well, we have two but they are both long. That’s easily the equivalent of many more and should keep us gong for a while.

Be sure and check out my friends post coming up next.

Happy Reading

Free and bargain books February 22, 2021

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BookBub has a FREE suggestion. I remember reading and enjoying this one four years ago.

A Sweethaven Summer (The Sweethaven Circle Book 1)

Amazon quote:

A faded scrapbook reveals secrets that reconnect old friends in a place called Sweethaven.

Campbell Carter has come to Sweethaven in search of answers about her mother’s history. Just before losing a battle with cancer, Suzanne Carter sent letters to childhood friends from her hometown of Sweethaven, Michigan. Suzanne’s three friends — Lila, Jane, and Meghan — haven’t spoken in years, yet each has pieces of a scrapbook they made together as girls. Suzanne’s letters have lured them all back to the idyllic lakeside town, where they meet Campbell and begin to remember what was so special about their long Sweethaven summers.

As the scrapbook reveals secrets from the past, old wounds are mended, lives are changed, and friendships are restored — just as Suzanne intended.

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I came across another book by the same author, it’s a bargain and I haven’t read it yet. Sweet.

Hometown Girl 

Amazon quote:

Beth Whitaker isn’t supposed to be a small-town girl. She’s always dreamed of leaving Willow Grove, Illinois, for the big city, but she feels trapped, struggling to make up for a mistake that’s haunted her for years. Just when Beth is finally ready to break free, her sister impulsively buys a beloved but run-down farm on the outskirts of town, and she begs Beth to help with the restoration. Reluctantly, Beth agrees to help—and puts her own dreams on hold once again.

Drew Barlow hasn’t been back to Fairwind Farm since he was a boy, and he’s spent all these years trying to outrun the pain of a past he thought he buried long ago. When he learns that the owner has passed away, his heart knows it’s finally time to do the right thing. Returning to Willow Grove, Drew revisits the old farm, where he attempts to piece together his memories and the puzzle of the crime he witnessed so long ago.

Both on a journey to find peace, Beth and Drew are surprised when they begin to experience a restoration of their own. But when long-buried secrets break through the soil and the truth unfurls, will it threaten their budding relationship—and the very future of the farm?

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LPC Books has FREE suggestions for us today too. I’m excited.

Well, I was excited but I could only find one of them. Maybe I’ll try again tomorrow, there could be a glitch somewhere.

On Deadly Grounds 

Amazon quote:

On the eve of an international G7 Summit, event coordinator Mattie Maguire discovers that the venue, a century-old estate close to Asheville, NC, is more than simply a picturesque setting. It is also the center of political conspiracies involving a ruthless Russian spy ring that will stop at nothing to steal the massive fortune they believe to be hidden there. The search intensifies and a rogue Russian agent attacks Mattie’s grandmother, still living on the estate. She hovers in a coma, barely clinging to life. 

As Mattie struggles to protect her family and ensure a safe event for the most important leaders in the world, her discovery of a fraudulent heir to the estate puts her own life in danger as well. But when her eighty-five-year-old grandfather is kidnapped and held at gunpoint, her path becomes clear. Despite her fear, she must locate the only person who has the information the Russians seek—the estate’s rightful heir, hidden away for decades after the murder of his father. But will the true owner’s return to his childhood home put his life in danger, too.

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Well, three is not bad. It’s always better than none.

So, if you are paying attention and like to know, I finished yesterday’s current read which was Shock and Awe by Christy Barritt and I’ve gone back to finish the abandoned one The Ingenue: Political Spy Thriller by Terry Toler

Part way through the book I discovered Ingenue means an innocent or unsophisticated young woman, a perfectly fitting description for the 13 year old supporting actress in this story.

I took a break initially because I sensed some dark moments coming and needed a breather. It turns out the dark moments are met with some humor and more than a little over the top bravery, on the part of both characters. I’m looking forward to seeing how they get themselves out of this little dilemma.

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Happy Reading, y’all

Free and bargain books February 21, 2021

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Chautona Havig says she has a new book coming out in July and it’s on pre-order for cheap right now.

The Last Gasp (Ever After Mysteries Book 1)

Amazon quote:

At the pinnacle of his Hollywood career, Garrison Prince’s reign ends tonight.

As plain old Gary Prinz, he can pursue his Bible education, buy a bungalow in Pasadena, acquire a few chickens, and marry the girl of his dreams. He just never imagined trading the silver screen for a pulpit would wreak such havoc.

A cigarillo girl, Lucinda Ashton spends her days with her boyfriend, Gary, and her evenings selling candy and “gaspers” to the Hollywood elite at the Taj Mahal Theater.

However, when gunshots ring out just as intermission begins, Lucinda finds herself smack-dab in the middle of a brouhaha that leaves three dead, and no one has a clue why.

All the police know is that the evidence points to Lucinda as the killer and Gary as the intended target.

Four new friends, one young orphan, and a potluck of clues that don’t seem to fit anywhere leave the police baffled, Lucinda in fear for her freedom, and Gary ready to trade in his acting shoes for gumshoes if it’ll save his “Cinda.”

The first book in the Ever After Mysteries combining beloved fairy tales and mysteries, The Last Gasp. This Cinderella retelling blends a murder with enough crime and story clues to keep you on the edge of your seat.

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Chautona also remembered to schedule her Freebie Friday book as FREE. (she often forgets and then has to apologize to everyone) (She probably knows she doesn’t have to but she likes to)

Sweet on You (Meddlin’ Madeline Mysteries Book 1)

Amazon quote:

It is my hypothesis that social conventions are created to test our fortitude.

Rockland circa 1900-
As the mayor’s daughter, Madeline Brown enjoys a rich social life that many might envy. But a sharp mind and a growing talent for observation leaves Madeline torn between avoiding social censure and exploring the world around her.

With an aunt who considers higher education and employment equally unsuitable for the mayor’s daughter, there is little to amuse her save endless committee meetings, evening socials, and her favorite pastime: curling up with an exciting detective novel. The temperance and suffrage movements hold little interest for a young woman who has just endured the rigors of her father’s mayoral campaign.

So when a young man shows interest in her friend, Madeline’s interest piques–until his actions hint that he might not be the upstanding gentleman everyone presumes him to be. Unable to ignore her concerns, Madeline finds herself in the middle of an investigation into his character and discovers a side of Rockland she’s never encountered.

Will her new hobby reduce the tedium of her life, or will her “meddling” create tension for herself and her father? Will she be forced to squelch this budding skill of hers or has Madeline finally found her calling in life.

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That’s all I have for new books for now.

After yesterday’s post I switched gears on my current read. I was reading ….

But I left it for…

I’m half way through Shock and Awe. I’m thinking I need to go back to Ingenue when I’m done and speed read through the tense sections. Terrible things are about to happen, I can just feel it coming.

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Today is Story Prompt Day.

I have a short post again. I hope everyone thinks it’s a funny as I do.

Love, Lies, & Typewriters

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This was a GOOD book. I loved it enough to give it 5 stars.

Love, Lies, & Typewriters: A Christian Historical Western Romance

Amazon quote:

At the height of WWII, New York reporter Bryce Richard is tapped to promote the concocted romance of a wounded veteran and Wyoming cowgirl Lucy Daniels, all in order to sell war bonds. But when Bryce falls in love with Lucy, he must stop her impending fake—but very legal—wedding by devising his own rugged proposal. Can this city slicker cowboy-up to the challenge? 

A heartwarming romance worthy of the Hallmark Channel, Love, Lies, & Typewriters is a funny, inspirational story about real love and real courage at a transformational time in America.

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There were a number of things I loved about this book.

The plot was well thought out, fresh, and believable.

The characters worked well together. There was the right amount of tension between them to keep it interesting. They were true to their identity all the way through. There were hints letting us know who felt what but the ending wasn’t immediately obvious. It was a surprise. Well… it was and it wasn’t, which was very nice. The way it all came together was the biggest surprise.

The realness in the story was rooted in the author’s personal history. I could tell you what it was but it would be called a spoiler. That would be wrong on so many levels. Besides, there was an author’s note telling us we would have to wait until the end to hear that story. I have to say, it was worth waiting for. You’ll have to read the book if you want to know too.

Oh, can’t forget… I also loved the quirkiness in conversations and interactions. It was hilarious at times.

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The tone of a book always influences the mood I’m left with. My mood is happy and upbeat at the moment.

It may or may not last with my current read.

I love quirky, dry humor. So far this new read is delivering on that score and my upbeat mood is still intact. It could be in jeopardy though given the North Korean setting, smack in the middle of dangerous intrigue. I’m sure the protagonist’s resourcefulness will have him surviving by squeaking through the tiniest of cracks.

I won’t tell you abut the other character he will meet soon (at least I think it will be soon) but I can tell you she will be a good match for him in the survival game.

I’m looking forward to this read!

The Ingenue: Political Spy Thriller (THE SPY STORIES Book 2)

Amazon quote:

America’s next endearing hero, CIA operative Alex Halee, goes off mission to infiltrate a cybercrime lab in North Korea run by the notorious Pok.

When he runs into trouble, he gets help from the most unlikely person. Bae Hwa is a thirteen-year-old North Korean girl who likes to steal backpacks. When she unknowingly gets her hands on a satchel full of nuclear codes, her entire family is in danger and she ends up in prison.

Alex is arrested and thrown in the same prison cell as Bae. It’s a race against time as he has to save them both and keep the codes out of the hands of those who want to destroy America . . .

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Must go, I have a book to read.

Happy Reading….

on this significantly warmer, sunny day.

It seems the deep freeze has finally left us and it is a balmy -8c out there right now. After minus 30 – 40c… -8c feels downright warm.

(… it’s because someone could have friends or family living in our part of the world and they wonder what it’s like.) (I could hear you asking why. 🙂 )