Review: The Orphan Sisters by Shirley Dickson

1929: Four-year-old Etty and eight-year-old Dorothy are abandoned at Blakely Hall orphanage by their mother, never to see her again. With no other family to speak of, the sisters worship their beloved mam – confused and heartbroken to be deserted by her when they need her the most.

1940: Etty and Dorothy are finally released from the confines of Blakely Hall – but their freedom comes when the country is in the grip of World War Two and its terrors. Amidst a devastating backdrop of screaming air-raid sirens and cold nights huddled in shelters, the sisters are desperate to put their broken childhoods behind them.

But trouble lies ahead. Dorothy must bid goodbye to her beloved husband when he’s sent to war and Etty must nurse a broken heart as she falls in love with the one man she can never be with.

Etty and Dorothy survived the orphanage with the help of one another and neither sister can forget the awful betrayal of their mother, which has haunted them their whole lives. But when a shocking secret about their painful childhood comes to light, will the sisters ever be the same again?

Kindle Edition, 367 pages

Expected publication: January 22nd 2019 by Bookouture 

Genre: Historical Fiction

Kristine's Thoughts:

** I received an advanced readers copy from Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, Thank you!

The Orphan Sisters followed the lives of Dorothy and Etty from the time they were little girls into adulthood. It started in 1929 when the girls were eight and four. This was when, for some unknown reason, their mother (mam) dropped them off at Blakely Hall (an orphanage) and walked out of their lives. At fifteen Dorothy aged out and four years later Etty followed. The book followed their lives as they struggled to adapt to life outside of the strict orphanage during a time when the country was in the throws of war.

I liked this book. I really liked it. As far as WW11 historical fiction goes, this book was very simplistic compared to most I've read. Although there was plenty of tragedy to be found in the pages, it wasn't as detailed or traumatising as many I have read. What it was that I enjoyed about this story was the bond between the two sisters. I also enjoyed how it focused on society and what was acceptable behaviour at that time in history.

As far as the characters went, I adored Dorothy. I struggled at times with Etty, she didn't always make the best decisions, but in the end I was always in her corner. The relationship between the two sisters was really what made this book. It was the heart of the book and what kept me turning the pages. It seemed that no matter what life would throw at them, they could survive as long as they had each other.

This book turned out to be a very pleasant surprise for me. It left me very satisfied and thankful that I had the opportunity to read it. The simplicity of the writing made it easy to finish quickly. This book would be good for people who are just starting to get into WW11 historical fiction as it isn't as heavy and daunting as some.  I will definitely pick up more work by Shirley Dickson in the future.

About the Author

Shirley Dickson is the author of The Orphan Sisters, her debut novel.
She lives under the big skies of Northumberland with her husband, family and lucky black cat.

She wrote her first short story at the age of ten for a childrens' magazine competition. She didn't win but was hooked on writing for a lifetime.

For many years she wrote poetry and short stories and got many rejection slips.
Shirley decided to get serious about writing novels when she retired.

She signed with Bookouture in 2018 for a two-book deal. She has written two stirring World war two historical novels.
Shirley says she is a prime example of 'never give up on your dream.

 

Review: Bayou Vows (The Bayou Bachelors Book 3) by Geri Krotow

Not even the wildest Bayou Bachelor of all can resist the right woman. Jeb DeVillier has a lot of explaining to do. True, he did steal millions from the sailboat business he ran with his partner, Brandon, and disappear to South America. But Jeb has a good reason—Brandon’s sister, Jena Boudreaux. A decade ago, she broke his heart when she chose career over their relationship. Still, when he learns she’s being held for ransom by drug dealers, he doesn’t hesitate. He’ll save her life, no matter what the danger.

When Jena called Jeb out of the blue, it was to ask him to give her last words to her family. She knew the risks when she took one final mission for the CIA. Suddenly, Jeb’s riding to the rescue like her own personal Cajun knight. Yet now that they’re both safe in New Orleans, he refuses to give her a second chance.

That’s not good enough for Jena. Because when you find someone crazy enough to risk everything for you, the only sane thing to do is to hang on tight . . .

Kindle Edition, 192 pages

Expected publication: January 8th 2019 by Lyrical Caress

Terri's Thoughts

** I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!)**

This is the third book in the Bayou Bachelors series.  For those new to this series, I recommend starting at the beginning as there are storylines that run throughout the series and one may lose half of what is going on by reading this as a standalone.

This circumstances of this story happen predominantly off the pages to get this story started.  It wraps up items from the first two and at first I thought I had missed an installment.  It all gets covered throughout this book so I was quickly up to speed.

I liked both characters however I did get frustrated in the whole miscommunication leads to perceived unsurmountable differences.  This is common within this genre so you kind of have to just go with the flow or else there wouldn't be a story to begin with.  Despite my frustration, I did like this story the best of all three.  I think it is because it was linked together to the first two so I really had an investment in the outcome.  To try to explain it would result in spoilers so you would have to take my word for it.

If I would have to summarize the pros & cons?

Pros: Quick easy read with plenty of steam for those looking for it

Cons:  somewhat unbelievable - its difficult to accept that someone who has been racist for 30 plus years can suddenly change.

Overall I had a good time with this series.

About the Author

Award winning, bestselling author of women’s fiction, contemporary romance and romantic suspense. A US Naval Academy graduate and former Navy Intelligence, Geri uses her global life experiences to bring her readers thrilling stories. She’s lived it, now she writes it! 

Website

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Happy Friday!

Review: Verity by Colleen Hoover

Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish.

Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity's notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn't expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity's recollection of what really happened the day her daughter died.

Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents would devastate the already grieving father. But as Lowen's feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife's words. After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue to love her.

Kindle Edition, 333 pages

Published December 7th 2018 by Hoover Ink, Inc. 

Genre: Romance/Mystery/Thriller

Kristine's Thoughts:

Colleen Hoover what have you done to me?

I knew this book was different...

I didn't read the synopsis...

It is never necessary with her books...

But I did not expect this!

Wow, just wow!

I won't get into details of this book because it has already been reviewed thousands of times. Besides, the less you know the better. I will say that it plays with your mind and you will not be able to put it down. When it's done you will not be done. This book will continue to play with your mind long after that last page is turned. What an absolutely incredible story with twists, turns, questions, theories and a whole lot of mind blowing.

I don't want to tell Colleen to stop writing what she has because that would devestate me but she can definitely write more of this. I'll be first in line to buy it.

At this point I am in awe of Colleen. I think she can write just about anything in any genre and it would be amazing.

Read this book. What are you waiting for?

About the Author

International and #1 New York Times bestselling author of romance, YA and Women's Fiction.

Still doesn't know the difference between affect/effect, further/farther, or if the oxford comma is in or out.

If you want to follow me, my username is @colleenhoover pretty much everywhere except my email, which is colleenhooverbooks@gmail.com

Founder of www.thebookwormbox.com charity. We've donated over one million dollars to various charities. Give us your money so we can donate even more.  

Connect with Colleen

Website/Twitter/Facebook/Instagram/Goodreads 

 

Review: A Charm Like You (Charmed in Texas #5) by Sharla Lovelace

Even in a quirky small town like Charmed, Texas, there’s always room for love to take you by surprise . . .
 
Gabi Graham might have hit the proverbial rock in rock-bottom. Hitting the single scene after ten years is hard enough. Finding out that her cheating ex-husband and his new barely-legal fiancée are expecting—that’s enough to drive Gabi over the edge and into a neighboring town’s divorce support group. It’s not really her thing to listen to anonymous strangers bash their exes, but at least there are cookies. And a sexy fellow newcomer who ignites her long-dormant libido. Spending a few lustful, post-meeting moments in Hot Guy’s truck can’t hurt. Unless, of course, Hot Guy turns out to be Thatcher Roman—her best friend’s brother and Gabi’s silent business partner.
 
Thatcher had no idea that the wildflower farm owner he’s been doing business with over email is the nameless woman who’s barreled into his life and his fantasies. He and Gabi have a new venture to run, a sister and best friend in the middle, and enough sparks between them to light up the entire town of Charmed. Given her past, it’s no wonder smart, gorgeous Gabi has trust issues. But maybe what they’ve found is more than just coincidence and chemistry. It might even be the beginning of one sweet, amazing second chance . . . 

Kindle Edition, 270 pages

Published December 25th 2018 by Lyrical Shine

Terri's Thoughts

**I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!**

I am a little late getting this review posted but better late than never.  I have been reading this series since the beginning so it is safe to say I have been enjoying it.  It seems that with this one, Lovelace has raised her game a bit.  It very well be my favorite in the series, or at least tied with the first one.

The reason why you ask?  She perfectly captured the chemistry and attraction between Gabi and Thatcher.  How they knew when the other was in the same room as them, how they could tell when the other was looking at them etc.  It isn't always easy to capture this kind of connection.  Many times it falls short or so overboard it is cheesy.  In this case it was the perfect balance.

For reasons I will not share, it appears that this will be the end of the series.  A town of quirky characters, I am going to miss Charmed and its gang.

About the Author

Sharla Lovelace is the Bestselling and Award Winning Author of five standalone novels, the exciting Heart of the Storm series, and the fun and sexy Charmed in Texas series, all featuring sexy small town love stories with heat and humor. Being a Texas girl through and through, she's proud to say she lives in Southeast Texas with her husband, a souped up golf cart, and two crazy mutts.

Sharla is available by Skype for book club meetings and chats, and loves connecting with her readers! See her website www.sharlalovelace.com for a complete book listing, info on upcoming events, and to sign up for her newsletter.

Website

Twitter

Namast'eh Box: Unboxing and Review

Namast'eh is a Canadian subscription box that delivers premium yoga and athletic wear from Canadian brands at 50% off retail value right to your door. There are three different subscriptions to choose from.

The True North Box- 3 piece Premium Outfit $119.00
The Glowing Heart Box- 2 piece Premium Outfit $89.00
The Maple Leaf Box- 1 Pair Premium Leggings or Capris $59.00

You can choose to get your box every month, every second month or every three months and you are not locked into a plan of any kind. This means that you can pause or cancel your subscription at any time without penalty. How it works is you choose your subscription, complete your profile (sizes, activities) and your box gets delivered to your door.

In the interest of full disclosure, I already subscribe to a similar box from an American company. I thought I would try Namast'eh to see if it compares and if I like it as much. When I subscribed in December I opted for the True North Box and it was only $99.00. It went up $20 on January first but anyone who subscribed before the 1st had their price locked in at the cheaper rate. Most of the brands that they advertise as participating companies I have never heard of. I thought this would be a good way to discover new brands and help to stimulate my own economy. Not being familiar with most of these brands means that I had no idea of the quality of the products that I would be receiving.

I exercise almost daily and wear a lot of workout clothes. Recently I have taken up running as part of my regular routine.

So I received my first box in December and here are my thoughts...

This is what the box looks like when you first open it.

Here is my first peak at the athleisure wear that I received!

These are the pieces that I got...

MPG: Pointe Sports Bra in black medium support retail value $46.00 (from website)

It is hard to tell from my picture but the sports bra has a mesh v-neck as well as mesh sides with a criss cross pattern over it. There are also removable cups. This sports bra is supper cute and probably my favourite item from my first box. I did find it a tiny bit difficult to get on and off but it was extremely comfortable on and held up to my workouts wonderfully. MPG is the only brand that Namast'eh box advertises that I was familiar with before hand.

Tonic Active- Surge Tank in black retail value $65.00 (from website)

Again it is hard to tell from this picture but this tank layering piece has tiny little holes throughout the entire piece making it breathable and it is also made from a quick dry material. When I first pulled this tank out I wasn't sure what I thought. It was definitely not one that I would pull off the shelf myself and I most definitely would not have paid $65.00 for it. However, it works really good for my high intensity workouts where I get really hot and sweaty. Its quick dry fabric and breathability were very much appreciated.

Daub Active- Capris (I couldn't find these exact ones on the website but the cheapest capris were $104.00)

Again, I'm not sure if I would have picked these off the shelf myself but I do have to admit that the pattern on these bottoms are very good for hiding those imperfections. I actually really liked how they felt on my body. They were nice and snug and didn't move or sag after wearing them through a workout or around the house. The only feedback I feel the need to mention is that because there is a significant amount of white, you can see your underwear if wearing any kind of colour or style besides a thong. I plan to use these for running and will not use them for workouts that require a lot of squatting or bending over.
When I filled out my profile there was a section at the end where you can tell them any preferences or special requests. I said that I would prefer capri or cropped leggings because I am not very tall and some full length leggings are too long on me. They listened!

So if I were to add up all the prices from the websites these three items would have come out to $215.00 so I saved $116.00 by getting this box. Even with the new 2019 prices it would be a savings of $95.00.

It is too early for me to decide if I will continue with this subscription service or not. I do like the items that I got in my first box but will probably wait and see what I get in the next two months before I decide whether to continue or whether I want it less frequently or whether it is worth it at all. Stay tuned for my next unboxing!

Check out the Website here.


Thoughts and opinions are my own. This post is not sponsored in any way by Namast'eh.

New Release Blitz: Notes of the Heart by Charlie B. Rose

 

Their hearts were in harmony… until the music faded away.

Izzy ~
Since childhood, our relationship grew from a single note to a full symphony. Two years ago, when I needed him most, he went radio silent. Starting over and rearranging the lyrics with someone new just hasn’t been the same. Beckett has my trust and friendship, but not what he wants the most: my heart. I have a second chance at love, if only my heart can change its tune. But before it can, that old song resurfaces…

Dawson ~
Falling in love with my best friend was wonderful. Until I lost her as I chased my dreams. My dreams have become my reality, and I have it all, except the one thing I want: Izzy. Every song I perform is a reminder of what she inspired. Without her, the music that used to flow freely has died. If I can convince her to be my song, my heaven, my everything once more, then maybe I won’t feel so lost. But her heart is singing a new tune, and I may be too late.

Can Dawson make Izzy see the classic anthem was better than a one hit wonder? 

NOTE: This is part TWO of Dawson and Izzy’s story. Part ONE of their story can be read in Beats of the Heart.

About the Book

Notes of the Heart
by Charli B. Rose

Series
Lyrical Odyssey #2

Genre
New Adult
Contemporary Romance

Publisher
Independent

Publication Date
January 10, 2019

Purchase Your Copy Today!
Amazon  |  Get Book One for Just $0.99!

Also Available On

About Charli B. Rose

A Southern Girl with a Love for Words

As an avid reader, I’ve always felt deeply about the written word. A couple of years ago I started freelance editing for indie authors. One of my clients encouraged me to pursue writing because she thought I might have a gift. Once she opened that door in my mind, the ideas have not stopped flowing. And I’m loving it.

I spend my days working in a genetics lab and my nights editing and writing. I’m also a wife to a wonderful hubby who encourages me to pursue my dreams and a mom to a sweet, funny, eight-year-old boy.

Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram  |  Goodreads  |  Amazon

This promotion is brought to you by Pure Textuality PR.