The Billionaire’s Backup + Giveaway

Jenna and I have been friends since college.

Not besties or anything. Just the kind of friend you hit up when you want to go to a party but don’t want the pressure of a date.

She’s fun. Independent. And she gets me.

Which is probably why we dated for a while – more for fun than anything..

The kiss was completely out of left field. And so was the ridiculous pact to get married if we were still single in our thirties.

Neither of us have ever mentioned that pact again.

But man, a lot of years have passed and I can sometimes still feel her lips on mine. Now that she’s going to be renovating my house, it could definitely be a problem.

The whole pact thing might have been dumb, but would it really be such a bad idea for us to get together?

My Giveaway:

This is me keeping current with a billionaire romance series — who’d o’ thunk it?! Not me! And yet, here I am, devouring each book with bibliophile glee!

I’ve really bonded with this friend group and am anxious to see how wealth and romance pans out for each of the guys. Having said that, you could also read these books out of order and not feel like you’ve missed out on much. Well, a few happily ever afters and some lifestyle changes — but not enough to make a new to the series reader feel on the outside looking in if you were to pick up this fourth book first. (Gasp! I know there are a lot of ‘must read a series in order’ folks out there. My apologies.)

A real strength of this Billionaire Next Door series is the way the author works faith and ethics into each story. These were average guys who pooled their financial resources and made a ton of money, but, for the most part, life hasn’t changed significantly for any of them. Oh, they might enjoy a jet-setting moment or two (there’s this incredible date night in this one…all I can say is…eeeeppp) but basically, each of our billionaire heroes has to figure out how to manage their new found wealth…and they do that prayerfully, searching for the ways God is leading them.

In The Billionaire Backup, Noah, is grappling with feeling the need to make changes in both his professional and personal life, but not quite sure how. He’s finally made the plunge and bought a house and has given his long time friend, Jenna, carte blanche on restoring it (she’s an architect.) And Jenna just happens to be the girl from high school he made a ‘marriage pact’ with — if they are both unmarried by 33, they’ll just marry each other. Bwahahaha — guess who’s closing in on that magic number?

Love that these two have lots of positive friend zone history. They’ve been each other’s backup date to social events for years and now that they are spending way more time together things start to sizzle. Only there are complications. Like the guy Jenna has been dating — only, no worries, this is in no way a love triangle trope. And there’s Noah worrying about losing a good friend if things don’t work out. So, cue some angst, but not enough that you’d choke the stuffing out of your comfort bear from an anxiety induced death grip. 🙂 Just enough to make things v-e-r-y interesting.

And I’m happy to report that there are still unattached billionaires in need of romance so we don’t have to say ‘bye’ to these fan-favourite characters quite yet.

I listened to the audible edition expertly narrated by Joel Simler and Emma Faye and enjoyed their portrayal of these characters and their love story.

All’s Fair in Love and Christmas + Giveaway

Two workplace rivals. One festive competition. And a romance that upends it all.

Every December two things are guaranteed for graphic designer Mackenzie Graham–Christmas celebrations and the annual promotion at her workplace. Those two things are by no means mutually exclusive. In fact, the better an employee is at harnessing the Christmas spirit, the more likely they’ll win the new job. With her social anxiety, Mackenzie never thought she’d be a contender in her company’s holiday competition, so how exactly has she found herself dueling her workplace crush with wrapping paper tubes and using tinsel as her weapon of choice for a much-needed raise?

Jeremy Fletcher’s life is meticulously planned out, including how to win this year’s promotion at work. Not only will the new position fulfill some of his career goals, but the raise will help him as a single guardian to his twin niece and nephew. Jeremy has barely noticed Mackenzie Graham around the office, but now that she’s his rival, he can’t stop thinking about her. Her quirkiness intrigues him, and he’s afraid that if he can’t get his head on straight, the job isn’t the only thing he’ll end up losing to Mackenzie.

‘Tis the season for romance, faith, and humor–all wrapped up in this enchanting holiday rom-com from award-winning author Sarah Monzon.

My Review:

This is me gobsmacked — again — by a Sarah Monzon book that defies description. A rom/com with so much heart that it had me laughing and wincing and tearing up and cheering all the way through. My bibliophile heart was put through the paces 🙂 by all the Jeremy and Mackenzie shenanigans.

And there’s so much Christmas!!! Monzon captures the joy of the season to sweet perfection. When I first read the synopsis about the holiday competition in the office, I was worried things might get nasty and spiteful but I couldn’t have been more wrong! And I can’t say more than that without major spoilers, but the way this hero and heroine are drawn together in the midst of all the holiday hubbub is sheer swoony delight!

I haven’t read many books that feature a heroine (or hero) with a social anxiety disorder and the author certainly managed to capture all the nuances that go along with that condition. And she does it with such compassion and understanding– a lovely blend of humour and angst. I alternately chuckled and cringed over some of the situations Mackenzie found herself in — even blushed for her a time or two. And I love, love, love (!) how the author addressed the faith aspects of this part of Mackenzie’s story. Again, I don’t want to say too much for fear of spoilers, but I really connected with the profound truths shared. Amen and amen again! So uplifting and confirming.

Even though I had a paperback copy on hand, I couldn’t resist purchasing the audible edition as well. Loved CJ Bloom’s narration — definitely a Christmas story I will happily return to every year.

Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Marting Communications Inc.

The Cowboy Bargain + Giveaway

A little competition brings a change of heart.

Sam Morgan never thought he’d see his ex-fiancée again after she skipped town days before their wedding. He certainly didn’t expect to find her opening a restaurant on his property—in the building he’d intended to sell his crafts from. This time Olivia’s sticking around, forcing Sam to strike a work together and see whose products sell best. Could their business venture lead to a surprising reunion?

A Lazy M Ranch Tale

My Review:

Yikes! A runaway bride / second chance love story which kinda made me apprehensive at first because, really, how could I connect with a heroine who dumped our hero in such an abrupt way? I shouldn’t have worried, not with Tina Radcliffe telling the tale.

So, Olivia — equal parts defensive and repentant — was surprisingly easy to like, despite her past decision to leave Sam virtually at the altar. Did I buy her reasons fully? Weeelll, truthfully, not really…but that doesn’t mean she didn’t find them valid at the time and who among us hasn’t made a bad decision we’re left ruminating over years later?

And, oh my, is Sam ever flummoxed when he discovers Liv setting up shop (literally) in the small town they were supposed to live out their happily ever after in? Especially when he learns that through a series of unfortunate events, he is her landlord! And then…well…stuff happens, throwing them together and forcing them to figure out how to get along…and maybe rekindle the love that never quite faded.

Happy sigh. I do love the way Radcliffe writes her big family/small town cowboy romances! And the Morgans are fabulous — from gramps to Sam’s brothers (two who are still unattached so — eep — more Lazy My Ranch visits in my literary future! Yeehaw! ) So many laugh-out-loud moments courtesy of brotherly banter. Nothing like a ranch house full of rowdy cowboys to steal a reader’s heart!

So…if you like cowboys and cozy small town vibes as the backdrop for heartfelt romance, look no further. The Cowboy Bargain is destined to be your next read.

You Make It Feel Like Christmas + Giveaway

Starr Lewis reluctantly returns home for the holidays jobless, single, and not at all prepared to be dragged into her sister’s wedding activities–or to witness her sister’s marriage to Starr’s ex-boyfriend on Christmas Eve. But when her brother’s charming best friend, Waylon Emmerson, attends their family Thanksgiving, Starr begins to believe that maybe coming home isn’t so bad.

As Starr endures wedding preparations, she takes comfort in Waylon’s presence and finds the perfect distraction in helping him keep his late mother’s Christmas shop afloat. As the spark between them grows, Starr must decide what she wants out of life–to go back to New York City or to stay and pursue a new dream.

A joyous, heartwarming, and magical holiday romance from Christy Award-winning author Toni Shiloh that will keep you cozy under the twinkling Christmas lights.

My Review:

The perfect holiday read! The kind you can devour in one sitting but the story still packs an emotional punch and leaves a reader aglow with the warmth of a yuletide happily ever after. Plus it’s fun and flirty, with enough swoonable moments to keep a romantic like me more than content. My heart’s still humming and I can’t wipe the silly grin off my face. 🙂

And there’s a wonderful faith thread about the importance of prayer. Both Starr and Waylon are wrestling with some major life changes and I really appreciate the raw honesty the author brings to their dilemmas. They are both Christians and invoke the power of prayer in their lives but that doesn’t always mean decisions are easy, or that they even feel divinely guided all the time. Sooooo relatable. And refreshing to read about.

The Lewis family is…interesting. Five siblings, a Christmas obsessed mama (she gave all her children Christmas names, after all) and a kind, but somewhat distant father. Interesting dynamics within the family as well, which strikes a realistic chord. And I’m looking forward to getting to know more about these characters…and their happily-ever-afters…in future books.

While I did have a paperback copy of ‘You Make It Feel Like Christmas’ on hand, I couldn’t resist diving into the audible edition because of it’s wonderful narration. Jasmin Walker’s portrayal of these characters is pitch perfect and made me enjoy the story all the more.

Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications Inc.

The Lost Manuscript + Giveaway

A priceless manuscript could be one woman’s key to finding her missing grandmother—and to her own second chance.

It’s not just Ellora Lockwood’s home that’s being emptied as she prepares to sell—her heart seems to be empty too. Since the mysterious disappearance of her beloved Grandma June and separating from her husband, Alex, Ellora has felt adrift. Then comes an invitation from Alex to teach history at a summer program at Alnwick Castle in England. He’s even found information about the location of a medieval manuscript that was her grandmother’s obsession before she vanished.

Warily, Ellora accepts Alex’s offer. Surrounded by lush English countryside and captivating history, she pieces together clues about the manuscript’s whereabouts—and uncovers new questions. Could someone have been sabotaging her grandmother’s work? Anonymous threats lead Ellora to suspect she too may be in danger, but as she and Alex work together, she’s finding strength, new purpose and the courage to see this quest through, wherever it may lead…

My Review:

First off, I’ll say that I’m not really a fan of estranged marriage romances. It’s not a trope I gravitate towards, and, in fact, will go out of my way to avoid. BUT — wowzers! did Mollie Rushmeyer ever bowl me over with all the emotional nuances of Ellora and Alex’s love story. I felt as raw and bruised and hurting as both of them did — but I had the added bonus of being party to their inner most thoughts so I could really understand how things fell apart in such a spectacular fashion. And that just made me all the more emotionally invested in their love story. Let’s just say Rushmeyer isn’t particularly kind to her characters. 🙂

Totally captivated by Alex! And if you told me I’d be fan-girling over the guy who walked away from his marriage I’d have uttered an emphatic ‘pshaw!’ But, I’d have been wrong. There are so many reasons to love Alex and I can’t tell you any of them without posting spoilers. You just have to meet him for yourself. But have a fainting couch handy for when you do.

And Ellora is as old-fashioned quirky as her name. She’s not only a history professor, but she rocks vintage fashion with flare! And she’s nursing a mountain load of hurt that’s turning into a grudge bordering on bitterness. But, somehow, she’s still lovable!

This is very much a redemption story — the redeeming of a marriage and the author writes with such beauty and truth that it brought tears to my eyes.

“They hadn’t chosen love or at least the type of selfless, truth-giving love they were called to as God’s children and husband and wife to each other. And when they inevitably messed up, they did not forgive as God forgives…” (p 121-122)

Then there’s the lost manuscript quest and the missing grandmother mystery and a summer in England to try to figure it all out…and learn how to fall in love all over again, this time with Christ as their foundation!

Muskoka Shores + Giveaway

Serena Williamson loves working at Muskoka Shores, the fancy resort on Lake Muskoka, and making couples dreams come true. But after returning from a celebrity wedding to find her own hopes crumbling to dust, she sets out for self-improvement, and to prove her ex was wrong. But when a misunderstanding concerning the new assistant church minister leads to more self-doubt, can she ever really trust a man again?

Joel Wakefield is looking forward to a fresh start for himself and his sister in this beautiful small town beside Lake Muskoka. He hadn’t counted on meeting a curvy cutie with a gift for hospitality and a gracious heart. Can he show her that it’s what is inside that truly counts?

My Review:

This love story is for every woman who has struggled with not feeling good enough. So emotional and funny and hard-hitting with a wonderful, uplifting faith thread about being ‘enough’ in the eyes of our Father in Heaven. And the power our words hold — to build up or tear down. So impactful!

An enemies to more trope plays out to perfection as misunderstandings abound. I laughed out loud and winced in sympathy and shed a tear or two by the end. So relatable all the way through!

Fans of Carolyn Miller’s Original Six Hockey series will get a thrill over the wedding in the first chapter. I haven’t read all the books in that series (yet) so I couldn’t fully appreciate the romantic glow but there are some lovely details as Serena oversees the wedding reception and makes for a nice bridge between the series.

Of course, I adore the iconic Canadian setting and the fact that the we get to visit through two seasons. Lots of time for our hero and heroine to get sorted while readers get to appreciate the beauty in my part of the world. 🙂

I listened to the audiobook, expertly narrated by Andrea Kummer and hoping the rest of the series comes out in audio as well. Otherwise I’ll have to mix and match with paperbacks! Gasp!

The Cupcake Dilemma + Giveaway

My name is Kirstin Hill. I’m a simple girl trying to figure out life in a small town. There are a few things you should know about me before we begin. I grew up in the city. I’m a teacher–a first year teacher, (some of you understand that significance). And, finally, when it comes to cooking, I’m a disaster. Maybe none of those things seem story-worthy, but trust me, I have a story. I call it The Cupcake Dilemma, and it literally changed my life. How? I’m glad you asked. 

It all started with an extra assignment delegated to me at school right before Valentine’s Day… but before we get too far, let me begin by stating this clearly. I was voluntold.

My Review:

published in 2018

Fun, flirty and fabulous! And laugh-out-loud hilarious all the way through. I love Kirstin! She’s got a dry sense of humour and a snappy comeback for any situation, whether it’s spoken out loud or just a thought bubble in her head. And the baker at the heart of her cupcake dilemma — oh my — swoon, swoon, swoony! Impeccably paced, this little novella just sings! Or should I say chortles? All the way to the end.

This is the third book in Jennifer Rodewald’s Rock Creek series but easily reads as a standalone. I haven’t read any of the other books in the series but now that I’ve met a few folks in town I’m eager to backtrack and find out their stories!

This book just released in an audible edition with an incredibly well-matched narrator. Laura Pedersen really brings not only Kristin Hill’s character to life, but all of the other characters as well. And her delivery of those one line zingers — hysterically funny. I’m enchanted and besotted and will definitely give The Cupcake Dilemma many re-listens in the future.

A Convenient Amish Bride + Giveaway

Two girls need a mother…and she’s ready for the job.

After the loss of her perfect match, Amish waitress Ruby Kaufmann resigns herself to a solitary life—until she meets widower David Weiss and his young daughters. Ruby has always wanted a family, and David is desperate for help because his aging parents can no longer assist with the girls. Will a marriage of convenience be the perfect solution…or a second chance at love neither expects?

My Review:

Amish + Marriage of Convenience = Bookish Glee

I don’t often run across a contemporary Marriage of Convenience story so I get excited when I find one. It can be a hard sell for a 21st century timeline but Bayer makes it work in this heartwarming romance.

I especially loved David’s two little girls and the way he relates to them. Poor little Mindy is so lost and confused after losing her mam and David will do anything to make things better…even marry a woman he doesn’t love!

I liked the way their relationship developed, with plenty of bumps along the way as they hesitantly start to open their hearts and contemplate a ‘real’ future together. There’s also an unexpected plot twist that sets the scene for Bayer’s next book scheduled to release in 2024.

I did feel that there were some discrepancies in the Amish lifestyle and culture though. And I was surprised at the lack of any kind of faith thread. Not even a mention of God or prayer. I’ve read secular Amish fiction with more inspirational input, so that was disappointing — especially coming from the Love Inspired line. Otherwise, A Convenient Amish Bride is an enjoyable sweet, clean contemporary romance.

Pieces of Forever + Giveaway

The scars on her face are nothing to the scars on her heart. But can God help her find healing―and love?

Eight years ago, Ava and Joseph had the perfect future planned—he would go to veterinary school, she would embark on a career with an exclusive modeling agency, and they’d eventually get married and have three dogs and four children. Until a terrible accident changed everything. Unwilling to believe they could still have a future, she made Joseph promise to leave and live out their dreams without her.

Joseph has never broken a promise to Ava. Until now.

Because before he made that stupid promise to leave, they’d made each other another promise—one of forever. Now that he’s done with veterinary school, he’s determined to return to River Falls and show her that his promise still stands. That he loves her just the way she is.

But first he’ll have to find a way to crack the safe she’s erected around her heart.

Fortunately, he has help: in the form of three lovable dogs, a special group of sick kids, and more than a few slices of pie. But will it be enough to convince Ava that their forever is worth fighting for? Or will he be left picking up the pieces―alone?

My Review:

published in 2021

Now this is what Christian Fiction is all about! What an incredible, moving, uplifting and faith-affirming story! And that’s not to say there isn’t any angst…because there’s plenty of that, as you would expect with a second chance romance. But I’ve still come away from this read with a soaring heart and and the inner peace that comes from knowing that every one of us is worthy in the eyes of the Lord.

Really — I’m gobsmacked and flabbergasted that I haven’t read a Valerie M. Bodden book before. I’ve heard her name bandied about on social media and people have told me I should read one of her books and, here I am, way late to the party but so, so happy that I jumped in with the first book in her River Falls series.

And this romance!!! Emotionally toe-curling. The way Joseph pursues Ava. Constant. Steadfast. Giving her space but not giving up. He comes close a time or two, but only because he feels it would be in Ava’s best interest. But he’s not going to cut ties completely, even if that means only friendship is on the table. Of course, he hopes for so much more — like a chance to keep the promise he made all those years ago. Sooooo romantical!!!!!

And — eeeppp — he’s a veterinarian!!! Seriously, that has to be one of my top picks for a hero occupation! So, of course, there’s some puppy love here too which makes for some nice ice breakers when things get tense with Ava. And Joseph’s large, opinionated family keeps things interesting too. 🙂

I listened to the audio edition narrated by Amanda Stribling (yay Chirp sale!) She did an amazing job — so easy to listen to and I feel like she captured the essence of these characters. Highly recommend the audio book.

The Reluctant Rancher + Giveaway

Will his childhood nemesis be the second chance he needs?

Despite the mess FBI agent Enzo Flores has made of his life, he’s still eager to help others—like his sister, Ana. But coming home to Texas to run the family ranch and take care of his nephew might be more than Enzo can handle. He enlists the help of Ana’s best friend, Resa Espinoza, who’s always been good at riling him up. This time, she might just help him heal…

A Lone Star Heritage Romance

My Review:

I was happy to travel back to Port Del Mar, Texas, the setting of two series by Jolene Navarro. I love this town and the secondary characters aka busybodies who can’t help but meddle out of love. 🙂 And I do so enjoy a romance set in the midst of a close-knit family ’cause they never let you get away with anything. So, lots of interfering siblings and wise matriarchs bring equal parts substance and fun to this romance.

Enzo is a little bit moody and out of his comfort zone as he gives up chasing bad guys for a time so he can wrangle his five-year-old nephew while his sister’s on bedrest with a complicated pregnancy. And it irks him that his little sister’s best friend (and the kid who was always dragging Ana into trouble) keeps coming to his rescue where little Lorenzo is concerned.

Only Resa is no longer the annoying pest he remembers. Now she’s a beautiful, spirited woman who isn’t cowed by Enzo’s detached FBI agent demeanour. Cue the fireworks and laughter and be prepared to be entertained. Oh — and their meet-cute — hysterical!!!!! Really sets the tone for the push/pull of their relationship all the way through.

A vibrant romance filled with hope and grace.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Reluctant Rancher, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it’s easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 19, 2023