Top 5 Favorite Romances...For Now

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My recipe for what qualifies as a favorite romance might differ from yours. For me, the characters must be complex, but likeable, the romance has to be swoon-worthy, but believable and I know it might be cliché, but I love a happy ending. I know, I know it's a tall order. There's something about getting caught up in a love story that makes the world seem a little brighter and a little happier.

My top 5 favorite tried and true romances are below:

1.) The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery

It's a no-brainer for me that Canadian author L.M. Montgomery would top my list. I've long been a fan of this author and her books, particularly the Anne and Emily series. The Blue Castle was written towards the end of Montgomery's writing career, is considered to be one her few "adult" works for fiction, and is also one of her few books not set on the author's beloved P.E.I.

Last week I read a quote that said, "Re-read your favorite books at different stages in your life. The plot never changes, but your perspective does." I first discovered The Blue Castle when I was 17 and have since read it 8 or 9 times. The Blue Castle has been one of those books I've read at various stages in my life and what I've come to appreciate over time is how the heroine Valancy is becoming who she was meant to be.

You can imagine how excited and gratified I was to find out that this book has a bit of a trend following online. I'm not the only reader who loves Valancy and Barney's story.

If you take a dive into the romance of The Blue Castle I'd love to hear your thoughts.

2.) The Princess by Lori Wick

I have to thank Miss Conway, my high school Algebra I teacher, for introducing me to author Lori Wick. Beyond the Picket Fence was the first book I read of hers and my early introduction into Christian fiction. Prior to that the only other Christian fiction author I'd read was Janette Oke.

In the late 90s, the Christian fiction genre was still fairly new, and I think what sets Lori Wick's books apart is she wrote both historical and contemporary.

The Princess is a modern-day arranged marriage between commoner Shelby Parker and widower Prince Nikolai Markham. Shelby worries if the prince will love her like he did his first wife. One aspect of the story, I appreciate is the way Ms. Wick intertwined so much of what would make a situation like this difficult. Both Shelby and Nikolai had quite a few obstacles to overcome.

On a recent re-read, I observed a difference in the style of how The Princess was written. Ms. Wick has the majority of the backstory told in the first couple of chapters. Nowadays, character backstory is sprinkle throughout a story like breadcrumbs. While this observation didn't detract from my enjoyment of this read, it's just a contrast to how books are written in the Christian fiction market today.

Nikolai and Shelby's love story is magical and you'll want to re-live it again and again.

3.) Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer

If you've been reading my blog for any length of time, I make no bones about being a massive fan of author Karen Witemeyer and ALL her books. Ms. Witemeyer burst onto the Christian fiction scene in 2010 and I've been happily devouring her books ever since.

Short-Straw Bride is THE BOOK that made me a die-hard fan of Karen's. It reminded me of 7 Brides for 7 Brothers (except there were only 4 brothers) following the Archer clan, orphans staking their claim on their land, keeping intruders out with shotguns, barbed-wire fences and animal traps. Now grown men, Travis, Jim, Crockett, and Neil Archer aren't quite sure what to make of the beautiful Meredith Hayes.

For me, Karen's books are like coming home. Her stories are always rock solid with complex characters, heart-melting romances, and the gospel message seamlessly woven in. Her books check all my boxes as a reader. I'd start with Short-Straw Bride, but you honestly can't go wrong with any of this author's books.

4.) True to You by Becky Wade Award-winning and contemporary Christian fiction author Becky Wade is known for creating characters and worlds you want to inhabit. Don't you just want to dive headfirst into this stunning cover? This is especially true in her Bradford sisters trilogy. True to You is book one in this series.

After a devastating heartbreak three years earlier, Nora Bradford finds burying herself in work and books much safer, John Lawton, a Navy Seal seeks Nora's help digging into the ancestry of his biological family because of an inherited diagnosis.

True to You has it all a great romance mixed with mystery and not to be missed!

5.) Emma by Jane Austen

I feel like it's "somewhat" of a requirement for any English major worth their salt to have a least one Jane Austen novel on their favorites list. While Pride and Prejudice holds a special place in my heart, I've always gravitated towards Emma.

Austen once said about the her character Emma, "I'm going to take a heroine whom no one, but myself will not like."

Published in 1815, Emma was the last work published prior to Austen's death in 1817. Jane Austen's remaining novels were published posthumously (Northeranger Abbey (1818), Persuasion (1818) and Lady Susan (1871).

Emma Woodhouse spends much of the novel trying to pair other people off she neglects the workings of her own heart and comes to realize she's been in love all this time.

My college English professors might disagree, but I feel like Emma is a regency era romantic comedy ahead of it's time.

How do you feel about Emma? 

I'm so curious which of my top five you've read! Which books would you add to the list?

A Match in the Making is Hilarious

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If you love laughing while you are reading then Jen Turano should be your go-to author. She brings her Gilded Age romances alive with her unique brand of humor and quirkiness.  A Match in the Making is the first book in her new Matchmaker series, and it already has me full of anticipation for where she'll take the series.

Gwendolyn Brinley accepts a summer position with Mrs. Parker believing it to be a paid companion. However, she soon discovers her employer upgraded her duties to "assistant matchmaker" during the summer Newport season. While trying to secure matches for two young ladies her employer is sponsoring, along with Mr. Walter Townsend, Gwendolyn's quiet Newport summer is anything, but quiet and dull. 

Widower Walter Townsend is "the most eligible bachelor of the season" and looking for a wife mainly for his three unruly children. Because he has no luck in keeping governesses he decides a wife is what he needs to reign in his brash brood. Hiring Mrs. Parker and her "assistant" Miss Gwendolyn Brinley. Walter can't help but find himself intrigued by the beautiful, but direct, Miss Brinley. Along with that he is equally impressed at the straightforward way in which she handles his uncontrollable children. 

Ms. Turano excels at banter between Gwendolyn and Walter that will have you laughing out loud, keep you on your toes with her clever dialogue, and leave you wishing you could be that witty in real life. As a reader, I'm always drawn to books that have clever repartee between the hero and heroine. A Match in the Making has this in spades, along with some good lessons in the story that I appreciated - and I think you will too. Also, there are so many funny moments with Walter's children that keep you laughing and remind you of the humor in every day life - and the humor that kids naturally bring! Disclaimer: Read the ending of the book anywhere you're comfortable laughing out loud - because you will be! A Match in the Making is hilarious and not to be missed because it will leave you with laugher and a smile on your face. 

Reading is adventure,
Emilee

~~A Match in the Making was provided to me by the author herself and the publisher in return for my honest review. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own, I was not required to write a positive review. All viewpoints expressed are my own. ~

The Rose and The Thistle: A Beautifully Crafted Historical Romance

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Christy-Award winning author Laura Frantz is known for her detailed and engrossing historical novels and The Rose and The Thistle is no exception. The author spends a good deal of the beginning of the novel setting up Blythe and Everard's separate stories before they meet. Because of this, the novel was  slower paced at first. I suspect one reason for the unhurried pace could have been the author's Scottish ancestor link and perhaps she wanted to make sure she got the historical facts correct as well as paid tribute to her heritage. 

The main storyline of the book revolves around the relationship between the two main characters, Blythe and Everard, as they navigate their feelings for each other amidst the complexities of their respective backgrounds and social standings. Fun fact, Blythe is the English Rose and Everard is the Scottish Thistle. 

Look out readers, because once they FINALLY meet it's well worth it. Author Laura Frantz excels at slow-burn chemistry and banter and humor between the hero and heroine.  The interactions between the two are romantic and swoon-worthy, however, I do wish they had more of these moments, if I am being honest. Her unique relationship with Everard's youngest brother is  really touching and sweet, and one of my favorite parts of the book. It is a beautiful aspect of how Everard and Blythe's relationship starts to blossom.  

Lady Blythe Hedley was a heroine I liked and admired. Despite the fact that she came from wealth, she wasn't interested in the newest fashions. I also liked that she was a godly woman of prayer and faith. Blythe and Everard's faith is central to their lives and the book explores the themes of religious devotion and the search for spiritual fulfillment in a way that is really well done. 

The characters face difficult choices between loyalty to their families, friends, and beliefs and the demands of their own hearts. Set in the midst of the Scottish Covenanter movement, the book highlights the cultural and political tensions between Scotland and England, as well as the conflict between the Scottish Royalists and Covenanters. 

Laura Frantz's writing style is beautifully descriptive and brings the 17th century Scottish setting to life. The attention to historical detail and the depth of research are evident throughout the book and make for a truly immersive reading experience. I personally found the ending a little rushed, but maybe I feel that way because I really wanted to experience more of their story. I would love to know what you think if you add this book to your TBR pile. 

Overall, The Rose and the Thistle is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, romance, and beautifully crafted storytelling. The themes of love, cultural conflict, faith, loyalty, and forgiveness are expertly woven together to create a captivating and unforgettable story. Whether you're a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a well-written love story, The Rose and the Thistle is the book for you.

~~The Rose and The Thistle was provided to me by the author herself and the publisher in return for my honest review. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own, I was not required to write a positive review. All viewpoints expressed are my own. ~~

Yesterday's Tides is Beautifully Mesmerizing

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Yesterday's Tides from Roseanna M. White is is a dual-time story told in present day WWII and the past during the Great War. I thought it was pure genius to juxtapose these two time periods both dealing with war. This story is everything you want in a book and more. I know, bold words. But, not only is the cover breathtakingly beautiful (it always sets the tone for me!), but the story is equally mesmerizing and brilliantly crafted. Case in point: White manages to gift us with complex characters and worlds that simultaneously overlap. You become so engrossed in both the stories and yet somehow you don't feel like one story competes over the other. This takes great skill to do well and this author delivers, pulling you in from the first chapter. 

This story has all the sweeping historical romance nuances readers have come to expect from Ms. White. In fact, if you've read Ms. White's Shadows Over England and her Codebreaker series you'll be pleasantly surprised to be reunited with previous characters making an appearance in Yesterday's Tides.

Here's a sneak peak: In storyline one, WWII has disrupted Evie Farrow's quiet community of Ocracoke Island when she discovers wounded special agent Sterling Bertrand. Over time. he finds himself drawn to and intrigued by the pretty inn keeper who seems to be keeping secrets of her own. Will Evie and Sterling discover the truth before it's too late? 

In the second storyline, set back is 1914, Remington Culbreth arrives at Ocracoke Inn looking to relax never expecting to fall in love with Louisa Adair, the innkeeper's daughter. With the outbreak of war threating their relationship will they be able to survive what lies ahead?

I won't further spoil how these two stories intertwine. I think you'll be impressed at the deft work Ms. White has created in this book. If you love slip-time historical romances you need to add  Yesterday's Tide to your TBR pile.

I know I've started out daring, and now I'm ending with one more brash statement: I've had the privilege of being on influencer/launch teams for several of Ms. White's series and a few standalone novels, but Yesterday's Tides might be my favorite book to date by this author (I know, but it's true!) and has earned it's place on my 'to keep' shelf... on my to-read-again shelf. If Ms. White is looking for a new historical genre I think she's found it in the WWII genre. 

When you read it, let me know if you agree! 

 Reading is adventure,

 Emilee 

~~Yesterday's Tides was provided to me by the author herself and the publisher in return for my honest review. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own, I was not required to write a positive review. All viewpoints expressed are my own. ~~

Dear Henry Love Edith has Heart and Humor

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Dear Henry Love Edith marks author Becca Kinzer's debut novel and my 1st book of 2023 and what a delightful book to kick off a year of reading.  The cute cheerful yellow cover caught my eye coupled with the curious plot on the back cover...My initial reaction to Dear Henry Love Edith was it's like You've Got Mail Meets Serendipity. If these rom-coms are your cup of tea you're sure to enjoy this story. 

Edith Sherman was a heroine I felt a kindred spirit connection with because of her old soul mentality. I fond her intriguing, charming, and so relatable. 

Ms. Kinzer's banter between Henry and Edith is on-point and so funny. I like that Henry and Edith both enjoy classic films and have not merely a knowledge of film, but also an appreciation. The author's occasional and subtle film references to classics from Hollywood's Golden age made my movie-loving heart sigh with contentment. In particular her brief reference to Shakiest Gun in the West. endeared her to me because I'd always thought of this Western screwball Don Knotts classic as somewhat obscure, but her referencing it make me feel like she got me as a reader. 

One thing of note, if your looking for a solid gospel thread throughout don't expect it in Dear Henry, Love Edith. Yes, there is reference to living for Christ. but it wasn't overly obvious in my opinion. I was somewhat expecting this because of some of the author endorsements on the front cover are other authors I've read and their books don't have a strong gospel message woven throughout. This fact didn't detract for my enjoyment of Ms. Kinzer's debut novel. In fact, I'm looking forward to more books from this funny and talented author.

If you like to laugh and smile while you read, I urge you to check out Dear Henry, Love Edith.

Here's to all of the amazing reading adventures we'll go on in 2023! 

Reading is adventure,

 Emilee 

Countdown to 2023....Favorite Books of 2022

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2022 was certainly a phenomenal year for wonderful reads. The books I chose gripped me, surprised me, and stayed with me long after I'd closed the book. Did any of these books make it on your favorites list? Any books I'm leaving out? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

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I read author Amanda Cox's debut novel The Edge of Belonging in one sitting this summer during an 8 hour car ride...returning home from a family vacation. I inwardly groaned at every gas station/restroom break because it meant I had to put this book down for 5 minutes or more and cried at least 3 times while reading this book. (I think my family may have thought I was crazier than usual.) 

With her riveting and emotional first book, Ms. Cox has officially landed on authors I need to read in 2023 and beyond. 

Ivy Rose returns home to her beloved Grandmother's home tasked with overseeing the estate. She discovers clues surrounding the mystery of her adoption and this sets her on a path of finding out where she came from, who she is, and along the way: love, loss, and redemption. 

Dual time books are becoming increasingly popular and The Edge of Belonging is exceptional and not to be missed. 

Time always flies when I am reading, but this year especially, it felt like time flew in general. I am looking forward to all the new books and authors I will discover in 2023 and I cannot wait to continue this reading adventure with you. Thank you for being here with me and celebrating books. 

Happy New Year! 

Emilee

Stay With Me is Captivating

This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive teensy tiny commission for purchases made through these links. I only recommend books and products I love. Thank you so much for the support.

Ok, this one shocked me. I never, and I repeat, NEVER read series out of order. By nature I'm a sequential reader. You too?

If you are, you'll understand how crazy what I'm about to type is: I read Stay with Me , the third book in Jody Hedlund's Waters of Time series, BEFORE I read books 1 and 2. 

I own books 1 and 2 and they are still on my unending TBR pile. They just got moved up to the top of list after finishing Stay with Me.

In my opinion Jody Hedlund is one of the most multifaceted and prolific authors in Christian fiction market in the past decade. Is there any genre she can't conquer?!  I was never a fan of YA literature until I read her Noble Knights series and Viola! I was an instant fan.  Her brand new Waters of Time series is a sci-fi /fantasy /dual time story. While sci-fi or fantasy are not genres I typically gravitate towards, I find myself becoming more of a fan under Ms. Hedlund's skilled storytelling. 

Here's what so impressive: I skipped past books 1 and 2 and still loved this story. It stands on it's own and that takes incredibly deft writing to accomplish. 

As a private investigator, Sybil Huxham learns of this "holy water" that can cure people and longs to find it to help her younger brother Dawson who was left blind due to an injury in the military.  Finding a small amount of holy water in a vile, she drinks some and finds herself transported to 1382 to a castle dungeon where she meets Nicholas Worth, a nobleman in the Middle Ages who is falsely being accused of treason. 

Both Sybil and Nicholas' reputations are on the line and they have little choice but to marry. I would say more, but that would ruin the suspense. 

What attracted me to Nicholas as a hero was how he was a man of honor. He's attracted to Sybil, but he's not going to act on his longing for her until she's ready. Also, he really likes that she is independent and can fend for herself. Although he's still protractive over her even though he knows she can take care of herself. I liked that Nicholas didn't try to completely mold her into a woman of the Middle Ages. 

To be honest, by the end of the book, I was a little in love with Nicholas Worth.

 I like that Sybil brings her modern-day feisty, independent spirit to the 1300s. She does have to adapt somewhat to their dress and customs, but she didn't completely lose herself either. 

Nicholas and Sybil's swoon-worthy-toe-melting kisses deserve their own paragraph. Wow! If it's possible for two fictional characters to scorch pages in a clean way, Ms. Hedlund succeeded with their passionate and intense love story. Still haven't fully recovered. 

One aspect of Stay with Me that was intriguing was the juxtaposition of colliding worlds through Sybil and Nicholas. It definitely made for some humorous parts. Particularly with different clothing. There were some laugh out loud moments.  My favorite minor character, Father Fritz, reminded me of Friar Tuck in Robin Hood. Not sure if this was the author's intention, but I pictured Friar Tuck whenever Father Fritz was on the page. Also, the village where Nicholas takes her to stay is hidden away and the archery also gave me major Robin Hood vibes  - and that honestly made me further enjoy and gravitate towards this story. 

I appreciated and resonated with the theme of Stay with Me, which is that God uses trials and hardships to grow us in ways that nothing else can. 

This book was such a delight to read. I'm sure if you inexplicably broke with your normal pattern of reading series in order, you'd be happy with the read. That said after noting how thoroughly I enjoyed this book, I can heartedly recommend you immerse yourself in the Water's of Time series and enjoy the adventure Jody has created. 

 

~~Stay With Me was provided to me by the author herself and the publisher in return for my honest review. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own, I was not required to write a positive review. All viewpoints expressed are my own. ~~