M.M. Koenig is revealing the cover for the last in her new romantic suspense series, FINDING OUR SOMEDAY! Check out the gorgeous cover and catch up on the series today!
The past should be behind her, but for Bri McAndrews, it keeps sneaking up in the worst ways. Lies, vicious plots, and manipulation follow Bri everywhere she turns. All she wants is to pick up the pieces and move on with her life, but the mistakes she’s made continue to haunt her, hurt her, pull her under. And with the sting of Trey’s latest betrayal still very fresh, Bri doesn’t know if she can truly trust him with her heart, leaving her at a crossroads she’s not ready to face.
The future should be bright, but for Trey Donovan, that’s the furthest thing from the truth. Trey has more regrets than he can count on one hand. To find atonement, he’s had to own up to the things he’s done, creating a rift with Bri he can’t seem to mend. Trey only wants the life with Bri he sees in his mind, but it keeps evading him, remaining just out of reach—especially when they find themselves standing between two of the most important people in their lives.
You need darkness in order to see the stars shine, but when a storm blows in, leaving a thunder cloud that blocks any semblance of hope, will two hearts become one, or have they become too tarnished to find their someday?
About the Author
M. M. Koenig enjoys being active and has a variety of interests that coincide with her passion for life. Always one to try new things, she has acquired a variety of skills. Her sarcastic nature and multitude of experiences tend to find their way into her novels.
When she has free time and isn’t writing, she spends as much time as she can with friends and family. To fuel her soul, she is constantly looking for new music, movies, and books to keep the writer’s block at bay.
I can’t answer that question. I can’t tell him I’ve spent my whole life trying to disappear. I can’t tell him that I was born a drug addict. Or that I’ve been in foster homes so terrible I wished I didn’t exist. And I can’t tell him that last year ended any ambition I had to make it somewhere better in this world.
Drug addict parents. The foster care system. Living on the streets of New York City.
Zoie Cruz is used to an unflinching world that takes without giving back. But at seventeen she isn’t used to Northern Michigan, a family that wants her to succeed, and sobriety.
Everything changed on Christmas morning last year. Her social worker calls it a tragedy and her weekly Narcotics Anonymous meeting wants her to open up. All Zoie wants is to be left alone to get high.
When she meets local golden boy Dean, he’s determined to pull Zoie out of her darkness. And she’s determined to keep her walls sealed shut.
In a whirlwind struggle to stay clean, Zoie’s secrets can only stay hidden for so long.
R.H. McMahan a.k.a. Mickie is a Puerto Rican and Irish YA/NA author. She was born and raised in Chicago – and yes she thinks it’s important that you know that. In June of 2020, she graduated with a BA in English Lit and Creative Writing and is currently pursuing her MFA in Creative Writing.
Mickie dreamt of becoming an author since she started telling stories on the playground in first grade. Ever since then it is rare to find her without a notebook and a pen. Her book baby, Worn Out Places, debuts on September 1st and she cannot wait to share it with the world.
If she’s not writing she’s doing other creative things like singing, dancing, and drawing.
In celebration of the release of Worn Out Places, a giveaway is being run! Up for grabs is a $20 Barnes & Noble gift card! This Blitz-wide giveaway is open internationally.
Join now with the link below! Head-on to Rafflecopter here.
How can you escape the hunt when everybody is hunting you? Calli was born an impossibility. With the dual soul of a shifter and the natural magic of a witch, she was the first known shifter/witch hybrid. But in a world where witches hunt wolves to siphon their magic, and wolves kill witches no questions asked, could she ever hope to find a place where she belonged?
When Calli’s parents, a shifter and a witch, met and realised their mating would never be accepted, they went into hiding from both the Coven and the Pack. Despite living this way, Calli and her brother had grown up in a happy and loving home.
After her parents are killed in a car crash one night, Calli’s world spirals out of control. Now the guardian of her five-year-old brother, Jacob, they flee to America to hide. In Arbington, Calli and Jacob settle into the safe house their parents had set up. Even in death, they were watching out for them, but they soon discover a small wolf pack lives in the same town. Battling her confusing emotions towards the shifters only complicates things forcing Calli to make a decision.
Trust her parents and stay? Or was it time to run again?
Review
Background: Coming for the author’s Destiny series, there are similarities in both series:- 1) shifter/werewolf packs, vampires, witches – the mythical players are present and foreboding upon entry to the book, 2) the main character, Calli, is “special” and a much-needed ally for the Thornton wolf clan, 3) harem style steaminess with three different personalities; and 4) the imminent danger is present. Given the few similarities between the Destiny and Stoneridge Pack series, they are immensely different when readers dive into the book. There is a more human and humbling experience because the characters know their limitations but still made considerable sacrifices for others in the end.
Wolf Hunt has more elements that touch and focuses on:- family, love, and survival. The story’s characters may be young, like Calli, Jacob, etc., but they all exude a rare and impressive maturity and give the events unfolding them. The story picks starts at a devastating time for Calli and Jacob when their parents were killed by in England, and they had to be “on the move” to safety.
Written in the POV of all the main characters – Calli, Grey, River, and Tanner, readers can expect a slow-building romance and maturity in the characters. It is a reverse harem romance, and the intimacy scenes are varied based on the characters’ personalities. Some of them will surprise you – what you see outside is different from “behind closed doors.” Hot hot hot! It is also a “revelations” type of book where all characters got themselves, each other, and even question the groups they all sworn to protect and uphold when things started to look “fishy.” On top of this, something is lurking in the shadows “hunting” the pack – threatening their peaceful existence.
I love how the author wrote Calli. She knows what she is, her skills and powers – everything – just not how to use it for defense. Her parents taught Calli and Jacob their family background and the contingency plans. These plans brought so much foresight and acceptance to both Calli and Jacob that when danger did happen with their parent’s demise, both siblings “volt-in” (“snapped into place”) and uprooted themselves to the plan. It is pretty impressive for a twenty-year-old Calli, and a five-year-old Jacob endured everything calmly and without hesitation. Note: Of course, there was some guidance with their parent’s allies, but it is still a daunting task for such young children. Calli’s parents’ foreknowledge, to me, is phenomenal!
Even if everything is new, strange, and uncertain for Calli, she did not lose who she is. She is thoughtful, selfless, honest, and is not afraid to show her vulnerability. She may be a novice with using her powers, but with the pack and people to depend on, she can explore it better and in the safety of people who care about her. She focuses on others a lot which may be concerning since she might not know her limits. I am worried for her in the series in general. A hero who does not understand the limitations may either push her to succeed or fail her love ones.
Jacob also impressed me a lot. Bases on how Calli and Jacob’s parents brought them up, it is not a surprise how well Jacob turned out to be. He’s thoughtful and kind, like his sister. He can assess the situation like a mature adult would be. Is this a believable trait for a five-year-old? It all depends on upbringing and the outlook their parents/mentors, etc., instill while young. Many moments in the book, Jacob surprised the pack members with his mature talk and analysis, simple and straightforward, then turn around and “be a kid” with his toys. I love it!
The book’s suspense and mystery of being hunted are at the forefront of the book. There were too many elements to consider: their foes, their allies, supposed friends and pack leaders, etc. The plot thickens as the story goes further but did not distract the other side stories like the pack dynamics, the discovery of Calli powers, the Council’s intentions, the enemies (or supposed enemies), the trust forged and broken, etc. The focus was steadfast and true, bringing readers holding on to their breathe at each turn. Readers will understand and relate to Calli’s sincerity in helping the pack, her brother, and “others.” These events are the build-up – the beginning of a war that no one will see coming until it is too late.
In summary, Wolf Hunt is a great start to the new series by the author. This book will cater to readers who love their paranormal, fantasy and growing up genre. Generally, I avoid series books that would require me to continue to the next. I am always cautious because I know it will leave me with too many unresolved issues that will bother me for days. But coming into Wolf Hunt, the writer rounded out the ending well enough to not make me have sleepless nights of worry and make me want to continue to the next.
I cannot wait to see the next book in the series, especially when Calli discovers more to her life than just protecting Jacob. There are more critical repercussions in disclosing Calli’s identity, abilities, and her weakest link. There are more significant pending issues they all as a pack will face that will determine everyone’s fate to live in peace.
About the Author
CJ Cooke is an indie author who writes paranormal romance fiction. She’s just celebrated the release of her fifth book, Wolf Hunts. She lives in Nottinghamshire, England with her husband and son. She likes to rock the English cliché of being addicted to tea. Her background is in law but started writing the type of stories she wants to read. Cat, as her friends know her, lives in ever-rainy UK. She is Mama to one human child and a cat that possibly hates her. Always found with a cup of tea in one hand and a book in the other, unless there are biscuits available, then she’s definitely holding onto at least one biscuit!
The Text God: Text and You Shall Receive … by Melanie Summers & Whitney Dineen (An Accidentally in Love Story #2) Publication date: April 1, 2021 Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance
Jen Flanders moved to New York to be an artist. This translates into walking dogs for money, practicing yoga for sanity, and hitting up her friends at a local bakery to supplement her diet. Rent is due and she’s running out of cash. After begging the universe for a sign that help is on the way, her phone pings with an incoming text. GOD: You can do it; I believe in you!
Gabriel Oliver Daly agreed to mentor a friend’s younger sister. Unbeknownst to him, after losing her phone, said sister uses her dog walker’s phone to text him about a job offer. He responds enthusiastically.
Jen can’t believe GOD is actually texting her! But who is she to question the ways of the universe? On the first day of texting, GOD gets her a job that will keep her afloat. On the second and third days he offers even more help.
Gabriel starts to think his friend’s sister might be too flighty to make it in the legal jungle of New York. Why exactly does she need a survival job? Wasn’t she supposed to be interviewing for a position as a junior lawyer? And why is she texting him random (not to mention very personal) stuff all the time?
When they finally meet, Jen realizes GOD isn’t a deity but a divinely handsome lawyer. A complete stranger has answered all her prayers. After all, God does move in mysterious ways.
Excerpt
Jen
Bending over in Downward Dog, I release the whoosh of breath I’ve been holding for what feels like the last three days. Then I have a stern talk with myself. It goes like this:
Jennifer Flanders, you’re an artist. You are a highly evolved soul who is temporarily off track. While dog walking isn’t your dream job and picking up copious amounts of poop is not fulfilling in and of itself, you’re lucky to have a job. And with such cute furry love nuggets who worship you unconditionally. With the exception of Brutus, of course, who loves nobody.
Then, as I do, I answer myself.
You haven’t sold one painting since you moved to New York. Not. One. Therefore, you can claim to be as advanced a soul as you want, but you are no artist.
Back to Positive Me: Screw you. I went to art school for three years and apprenticed with Peony Parks. That’s Peony. Parks. Second only to Georgia O’Keeffe in matters of all things flowers and possibly girly bits. Those lilies do bring to mind something of a non-botanical nature. I am an artist no matter what you say.
Negative Me: Nope. Not. Lalalalalalala, I can’t hear you!
I’m as tense as the rubber bands that hold a tennis ball together. I gradually retreat out of my current yoga pose and move into a headstand. As the blood rushes to my frontal lobe, I pray to the Universe for peace, strength, creativity, and either more clients or a better-paying survival job. I can’t even afford new art supplies right now, and I’ve been told by every gallery that I’ve walked into that they don’t want me coming back until I have something new to show them.
For some reason my mind drifts off to the morning of Gram’s funeral. I remember Pops telling me that I need to ask for miracles and not to turn away from them when they happen. “Dear God, send me a sign,” I plead. “Just a little something to give me the strength to carry on.”
Not a minute later, maybe not even thirty seconds later, my phone pings. Gently tucking and rolling out of my headstand, I strike a quick warrior pose and namaste my goldfish Frank before checking to see who texted.
The yoga gods would probably prefer all electronics be banned during times of spiritual mind/body goings-on, but they aren’t worried about eviction like I am.
When I see who the text is from, I have to stop and rub my eyes before reading it again. Same result. I read:
GOD: Word on the street is you need a little career guidance. Just wanted to let you know I’m here for you.
What the … God is texting me? Is this some new Verizon service? Because if it is, what in the heck am I paying for it?
A knock on the door startles me out of my concerns. Looking through the peephole, I see my neighbor and good friend Zay Lopez standing there. Well, I see the top of his head, anyway. He’s only four foot eleven. Opening the door, I usher him into my apartment. “Hey, Zay! Wait until you hear what happened today.”
I met Zay when I moved into my building. He lives right across the hall from me and is a computer programmer. He’s a bit of a hermit who works from home because he’s too shy to go into an office. I think he’s embarrassed by his diminutive stature, which was the result of some glandular thing he was born with.
Plopping down on my sofa, my friend says, “I hope it’s good news because I could really use some.”
“Oh, no. Bad day?” I don’t want to jump right into the whole “texting with God” thing before he has a chance to unburden himself.
“Not a good one,” he says, making a grabby motion toward the Oreos in my hand. I toss them over and watch while he dumps several onto his lap. “You know that cow Shelby that I work with?”
Shelby, the cow, is Zay’s nemesis who always mentions in company email threads that Zay should be working in the office and not from home. “What’s she done now?”
“She’s convinced my boss that I need to start coming into the office at least twice a week.” He explains, “I ran downstairs to get my mail the other day and didn’t respond to her text immediately. She’s taken my transgression to a higher power.”
Sitting down next to my friend, I snatch a cookie off his lap. “Oh, no. What are you going to do?”
He shakes his head mournfully. “Unless I want to leave the apartment to stand in the unemployment line, I guess I’m going to have to go into work.”
“That sucks, but maybe it’ll be good for you,” I tell him, trying to sound confident. I’m always trying to get Zay to walk the dogs with me, but he’s not interested. I’m not sure he’s even left his apartment in the past year.
“Good for me like a live grenade to the head,” he grumbles. “What happened to you today that has you so excited?”
“Wait until you hear!” I pause long enough to know I have his full attention before saying, “God texted me this morning.”
Zay looks side to side like he’s searching for a hidden camera before asking, “God? Like ‘the’ God?”
As I nod my head wildly, he says, “Jen, I know you’re a little out there sometimes, and to be honest, it’s one of the many things I like about you, but”—he reaches over to take my hand—“I don’t think you’re getting enough protein.”
“What does protein have to do with anything?”
“Protein,” he starts to enunciate his words much slower and louder, like I’ve aged eighty years in the last minute and won’t be able to understand him otherwise, “Keeps the brain from atrophying.”
Jumping to my feet, I yell, “You don’t believe me!” Then I grab my phone off the counter and find my God thread before handing it over. “He texted me this morning while I was doing a headstand—which, I’ll have you know, is just as good for the brain as protein.”
Zay reads through the texts, muttering things like “His name is Gabe?” and “Come on, his mom says hi?” Finally, he looks up from the screen. “Who is this, really?”
“I know this sounds nuts, but I think it could really be the Big Guy.” I lower my voice out of reverence and point at the water stain on my ceiling. “I didn’t program that name into my phone, and his first text showed up right after I asked the Universe for a sign that things would work out for me. Like immediately after. I told him I needed a job, and …” I snap my fingers. “He got me one at The Asher Hotel. Just like that. I didn’t even have to fill in an application. The manager said if I was a friend of Gabe’s, I was hired.”
“Oh, Jen, you poor naïve thing. You’re being scammed.”
“What could possibly be the motive for someone to pretend to be God just so he or she could help me out?”
Zay does not look convinced. Instead, he starts typing.
JFlan: Hey GOD, this is Zay, but I’m assuming you already know that. Can you please tell me why you’ve taken an interest in my friend?
GOD: …
GOD: …
GOD: Hi, Zay. Um, I’m helping because, you know, it’s good to help people.
JFlan: I could use a little help.
GOD: Shoot.
JFlan: I need to grow four inches by Monday. Any chance you can make that happen?
GOD: That’s not really my specialty, but have you looked into elevated shoes?
About the Author
Whitney Dineen loves to laugh, play with her kids, bake, and eat french fries — not always in that order.
Whitney is a multi-award-winning author of romcoms, non-fiction humor, and middle reader fiction. Basically, she writes whatever the voices in her head tell her to.
She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband, Jimmy, where they raise children, chickens, and organic vegetables.
Gold Medal winner at the International Readers’ Favorite Awards, 2017. Silver medal winner at the International Readers’ Favorite Awards, 2015, 2016. Finalist RONE Awards, 2016. Finalist at the IRFA 2016, 2017. Finalist at the Book Excellence Awards, 2017 Finalist Top Shelf Indie Book Awards, 2017
Melanie made a name for herself with her debut novel, Break in Two, a contemporary romance that cracked the Top 10 Paid on Amazon in both the UK and Canada, and the top 50 Paid in the USA. Her highly acclaimed Full Hearts Series was picked up by both Piatkus Entice (a division of Hachette UK) and HarperCollins Canada. Her first three books have been translated into Czech and Slovak by EuroMedia. Since 2013, she has written and published three novellas, and eight novels (of which seven have been published). She has sold over a quarter of a million books around the globe.
In her previous life (i.e. before having children), Melanie got her Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta, then went on to work in the soul-sucking customer service industry for a large cellular network provider that shall remain nameless (unless you write her personally – then she’ll dish). On her days off, she took courses and studied to become a Chartered Mediator. That designation landed her a job at the R.C.M.P. as the Alternative Dispute Resolution Coordinator for ‘K’ Division. Having had enough of mediating arguments between gun-toting police officers, she decided it was much safer to have children so she could continue her study of conflict in a weapon-free environment (and one which doesn’t require makeup and/or nylons).
Melanie resides in Edmonton with her husband, three young children, and their adorable but neurotic one-eyed dog. When she’s not writing novels, Melanie loves reading (obviously), snuggling up on the couch with her family for movie night (which would not be complete without lots of popcorn and milkshakes), and long walks in the woods near her house. She also spends a lot more time thinking about doing yoga than actually doing yoga, which is why most of her photos are taken ‘from above’. She also loves shutting down restaurants with her girlfriends. Well, not literally shutting them down, like calling the health inspector or something–more like just staying until they turn the lights off.
She is represented by Suzanne Brandreth of The Cooke Agency International.
In celebration of the release of The Text God, a giveaway is being run! Up for grabs is a $25 winner’s choice gift card! This Blitz-wide giveaway is open internationally. The giveaway ends April 15 .
Join now with the link below! Head-on to Rafflecopter here.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Published on: 01 April 2021 Type: series, HEA Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance, Small Town Rural Fiction, Clean Wholesome Romance, Clean/Sweet Contemporary Romance Author: Dr. Lin Stepp Read: 20 March 2021 Shelved: 22 March 2021 Rating: 4 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forced to suddenly downsize her life, and not by choice, pushes Mary Pat Latham to give up all that is familiar, to reexamine her life in every area, and to eventually open her heart to new beauty and purpose, instead of only looking back in regret.
At midlife, Mary Pat Latham has an almost perfect life-a successful husband, a beautiful home, four fine grown children, and a wealth of meaningful activities and social clubs to fill her days-so it’s a total shock when her husband walks in one day and says he wants a divorce. As if hearing a stranger talking in her own kitchen, Mary Pat listens to Russell’s reasons for wanting to abandon their long marriage and to his plans, already in place, to sell their home and move on. What will she do? Where will she go? She hasn’t worked since the children were born, her life wrapped up in home and family. Stunned, Mary Pat heads to the small mountain home she and Russell bought from her parents years ago, too shocked and humiliated to face her friends or anyone she knows right now.
Owen McCarter knew he’d need to stop by the old Jennings place, on some pretense or other, after Wheeler told him he’d seen a woman up there acting sick. After all, the house was next door to his at the end of Highland Drive. When he knocked on the front door later, it took him a minute to recognize Mary Pat, weeping and so different from the girl he’d known in childhood and fallen in love with. Owen reached out in friendship, of course, seeing Mary Pat so upset, but he felt surprised at the old memories that touched him, too. Hearing her problems and learning why she’d come to the mountains, Owen knew it unlikely she’d stay for long after the more lavish life she’d known. But he couldn’t help wishing she would.
Another Lin Stepp novel set in the Smoky Mountains … with a special Downsizing Diet available free to readers as a book supplement.
Review
Marian “Mary Pat” was blind-sighted by her husband, Russell, into a divorce that she never would see coming. Thirty-four years together with four grown-up children, and yet, her marriage fizzled out beyond repair. In a whirlwind decision and at a loss, she sets off to her old family home in Smokey Mountain, Tennessee- as a refuge from the shame and grief she received.
What happens next is a series of “signs” guiding Mary Pat as she lifts “her burden” to God and trusts him to lead her to her redemption and a second chance.
Owen McCarter is a former military man who came back home to continue with the family business of McCarter Woodcrafts. He is also a divorcee but has given up on sharing his life and heart with anyone. He chooses to focus on helping his father and sister with the family business instead. Initially, all is well and good. He adjusted well, but upon the reappearance of a childhood friend (Mary Pat), he realizes that his childhood crush never fades with time, even after all these years. Instead, it grew even more significant as he got reacquainted with Mary Pat again.
Downsizing is my first encounter with the author. I was excited when I read the synopsis and the more now as I finished this book. I enjoyed the book a lot more than I expected. And although there were few religious references randomly in the chapters, these were not “imposing” or intrusive to the story. The author brought about the right balance to reference God’s Hand (Fate) in having old friends reunite when things seem so bleak. The writing is clear, spot-on, and relatable. The points of view were from both main characters, helping readers get closer and empathize with them. I appreciate the author giving both characters “level, rational” heads while still developing and improving themselves in the story. These scenes made them a lot more realistic in their reactions.
What is empowering is recognizing the areas in our lives that we can change if we want to and then having the courage and determination to do so.
— Downsizing, Lin Stepp
First impression: Mary Pat’s husband is selfish and arrogant. I felt what Mary Pat had to go through with such a deceitful man. No one plans everything so well unless they know that they need to make a “clean break” before announcing such a devastating thing. There was a clear intention to hide Russell’s plans and leave Mary Pat when he is ready good. It was awful to read through what he spewed out to a woman who stayed with him for so many years! The blame game happened, and it was impossible to see who didn’t do what or why didn’t the other speak up. I believed that Russell handled the situation disastrously. He kept quiet, waiting for change, couldn’t stand it any longer (or maybe got “distracted by something else”), then dropped “the bomb” while chastising everything wrong with Mary Pat. Russell refused to work on their marriage and was happy to leave on his terms – a selfish one! If he was unhappy at some point in time, he should have voiced out his concerns or discussed them with Mary Pat. Anyways, the first part was a disaster and a load full of hurt. I believed that there was something bigger going on with Russell, and after Mary Pat explained her past to Owen, the more I was mad at Russell!
I love love love Mary Pat! She is a saint! She may not be perfect, but everything she handled in all “events” placed in front of her was stellar! I love how she thinks, decides, and approaches things – with a lot of thought and consideration (at times). She is a loving person like Owen, who was “dealt a bad hand” but was able to bounce back, learn from the experience, and came out “blooming” like a spring bud – even after being tied to someone for thirty-four years of marriage. She forgives but may not forget, but she indeed learned from what life threw at her, but her faith in God and prayers did not falter or forsake her. Her move to her hometown was very beneficial because of the people and Nature around her. I am so happy to have known such a character!
Today is the first day on the road to a New You.
— Downsizing, Lin Stepp
I was so happy (ecstatic) when Owen entered the scene. The first meet-up gave me significant relief from the stressful Russell. Owen was a gem, and his words and actions when Mary Pat first came back to Smokey Mountain were perfect. Owen’s history with Mary Pat goes way back that growing up together meant that they still knew each other how to support each other, even after all these years. It was a slow process, but Owen was patient in providing Mary Pat the support in finding her “old self” – full of life and ambition. He exudes kindness and thoughtfulness that showed a lot of experience in handling difficult situations while “reading” into people. He was honest but considerate to accept Mary Pat’s reaction on her healing journey before proposing anything. Instead of pushing, Owen (and the rest of the people in Smokey Mountain) re-prioritized and served as God’s tool in empowering Mary Pat to be the best version of herself. With their help and presence, Mary Pat starts the healing journey, looking forward to a brighter future.
All things work for good to those that love the Lord.
— Downsizing, Lin Stepp
I love how the author provided a comprehensive history of Smokey Mountain Tennessee, where Mary Pat and Owen grew up. It is very detailed but not overwhelming. It gives respect to the area and its people – the artisans living and making a living with their creativity and “hands.” The map at the start of the book provides a good look at what and where things are so readers can refer to it as needed. It’s charming since it’s a hand-drawn map that will make readers revisit it as the story progressed.
Interestingly, many of the people who grew up in the area somehow came back to settle, heal, or take care of family, even when they left home, which is terrific. There was no resentment in coming back or as a sign of weakness, and instead, a lot welcomed the idea like what Mary Pat did. I can relate to the author’s comparison of coming home to God’s welcoming those who need Him after being forsaken by the rest of Mary Pat’s world as she tries her best to heal.
The book spans months – many events happened to Mary Pat, Owen, and the people around them. There is ample time for character development and maturity, which is excellent because readers will see Mary Pat’s relationships – her family, friends, and Owen – go through changes. The same goes for Owen, but the book showed a lot of changes with Mary Pat. I was delighted to see her take “the high road” in a lot of things. Mary Pat kept her dignity by not spewing hateful words and actions and took into “healing” physically, spiritually, professionally, and emotionally.
We adapt to life as it hits us, we acclimatize as we settle in to different lifestyles, cultures, adjust to different people. But down underneath, I think the essence of each of us – the depth of us – is still there, even if we suppress it for a season. At times in my life, I lost tract of that deeper self and it felt good when I regained it, came back to myself more.
— Downsizing, Lin Stepp
The book’s ending will shock readers! While things started to be comfortable as Mary Pat was adjusting and budding new relationships in her new community, something big happens. I am all for karma and things “coming around,” but not I thought things would sail by. I was sad about what happened since no one deserves that kind of treatment, but I was happy that justice found its way to be a befitting end to the characters involved.
A nice add-on to the book is the diet notebook wherein Mary Pat used in the book, filled with fantastic food suggestions, meal plan guide, and food nutritional information for readers. Some helpful tips and recipes are doable and easy to follow for those who want to change or edit their diet. It is an excellent guide for people who want to eat better or curb their weight gain. I appreciate receiving this with the copy provided.
In summary, Downsizing is an excellent read about rekindled young love, second chances, finding self-worth, and finding the strength to move from a “stagnant relationship” into something better and more profound. Owen and Mary Pat’s love withstood the test of time through honesty, integrity, and respect. This book will surely make readers gush, swoon, and believe in fated love. Through prayers and faith, nothing is impossible or unachievable – time or space.
Everyday in life we choose, like the Scriptures that advise each of us to choose life everyday and to live our lives more abundantly so our joy will be full.
— Downsizing, Lin Stepp
About the Author
Dr. Lin Stepp is a native Tennessean, a businesswoman, and an educator. She is a past faculty member at Tusculum College where she taught research and a wide variety of psychology and counseling courses for 20 years. Her business background includes over 25 years in marketing, sales, production art, and regional publishing. She has editorial and writing experience in regional magazines and in the academic field.
Lin Stepp has twelve published novels each set in different locations around the Smoky Mountains. Her first five novels were published by an imprint of John F. Blair Publishing of Winston Salem, North Carolina. These novels included The Foster Girls (2009), Tell Me About Orchard Hollow(2010), For Six Good Reasons(2011), Delia’s Place (2012), and Second Hand Rose (2013). Five subsequent novels were published by Kensington Publishing, New York, including Down by the River (June 2014), Makin’ Miracles (January 2015), Saving Laurel Springs (October 2015) and Welcome Back (March 2016) as well as a short novella A Smoky Mountain Gift included in the 2014 Christmas anthology, featuring Fern Michaels, and titled When the Snow Falls.
Continuing books, published by Mountain Hill Press, include Daddy’s Girl (2017), Lost Inheritance (2018), The Interlude (2019), Happy Valley(2020), Downsizing (2021) and three titles in a coastal series Claire at Edisto (2019), Return To Edisto(2020) and Edisto Song (2021). Lin Stepp and her husband J.L. also write regional guidebooks, including a Smokies hiking guide titled The Afternoon Hiker (2014), a guide to all the 56 Tennessee state parks called Discovering Tennessee State Parks (2018) and state parks guide to South Carolina parks Exploring South Carolina State Parks (2021).
J.L. Stepp is a native East Tennessean who lives in Knoxville, Tennessee. Stepp owns and operates S & S Communications, established in 1990, which publishes a monthly outdoor magazine called Tennessee Fishing & Hunting Guide. The magazine covers fishing and hunting topics in Tennessee and is distributed in print form to advertisers at the first of every month. The magazine can also be downloaded from the web by going to www.tnfhg.com. J.L., a graduate of The University of Tennessee, also markets UT Vols sports related products such as football and basketball schedules, limited edition prints, and licensed sports collectibles. A graduate of The University of Tennessee, Stepp’s background includes over 45 years in sales, marketing, management, and publications. He enjoys a wide variety of outdoor sports, including golf, fishing, and hiking. The Afternoon Hiker (2014), jointly written with his wife Lin Stepp, chronicles 110 hikes in the Smokies with descriptions and photos, Discovering Tennessee State Parks (2018) describes all 56 parks in the state of Tennessee with over 700 color illustrations. and a second parks guide takes readers visiting to the South Carolina parks titled Exploring South Carolina State Parks (2021).
(1) winner will receive a Tennesee gift pack including a print copy of Downsizing by Lin Stepp, The Afternoon Hiker and Discovering Tennessee State Parks by J.L. & Lin Stepp, and a Great Smoky Mountains National Park pocket guide!
Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 5, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 12, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Giveaway is subject to the policies foundhere.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Published on: 2 April 2021 Type: HEA, standalone, series Genre: Contemporary Romance, Suspense Author: Ivy Wild Read: 25 March 2021 Shelved: 28 March 2021 Rating: 5 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Silas He wasn’t my friend until he became my enemy. His center is freezing cold, and his edges burn me when I get too close. He is everything I want and nothing I am. They say not to burn bridges, but he burned ours to the ground.
Skyler She is the girl who wants to be seen, but hates being noticed. She was my friend, my tease, my confidant. She is pure light against all my darkness. The reason you burn down bridges, is to build them up stronger.
Brightly Burning Bridges is a standalone romance and part of the Kings of Capital series. Start the series today. Find out more about them through my reviews. Book 1 – The Estate Book 2 – Infamous
Special Edition Cover
Review
Coming after The Estate, readers will remember Silas Jenkins as the cut-throat competitor of Carter Ross. Little is mentioned about Silas aside from his “bad deeds.” I have questions on Silas’ life and why he turned the way he did because those deeds were not kosher – going beyond ethics. Readers do not realize that Silas has a complex mind wrought with angst, pain, and skepticism. I am happy to see that the author chose him to star in the series’ third installment – to feature an unlikely anti-hero with much potential to captivate us!
Like Silas’, Skylar’s connection is with Sophie Strong, the main character in Infamous, Book 2. Skylar was one of the integral characters in Book 2 that helped Sophie get her justice. I remember loving Skylar and her antics. I am so happy that Skylar finally gets her story – twisted as they come.
The story is written from Silas’ and Skylar’s POVs (first person – dual) and evokes so much emotion. It was impossible not to stop and take a breather at times. In the author’s authentic style, flashbacks are written unintrusively within the chapters to explain backstories. I enjoyed listening to both characters’ frustrations, angst, and pain. It was “humbling” to see this, especially for Silas – who is as human and broken as I suspected.
FYI – I had to prepare myself each time I start with this author because she pulls out a lot in me with her detailed character development that dives deep into the ugly truths. These revelations will bring in so much emotional turmoil to readers before raising them to be idols for us all to admire and revere at the end.
Silas is characterized differently from how I perceived him to be. I agree that he is a bully and a prick from the start, but it all comes from a sad and twisted past that shaped him. People like Silas do not become who they are just because – his history is one of the saddest ones I’ve read. He grew up in a troubled home with uncontrollable elements that forced him to “guard” his emotions and shut himself to the world. Being a “bully” was Silas’ coping mechanism to get through his troubles. It is sad and very passive-aggressive behavior.
I didn’t like feeling things. Not about an object and definitely not about a person. People were messy. Feelings were filthy.
— Burning Brightly Bridges, Ivy Wild
As readers dive into Silas’ story, we see a very misunderstood man. He tries to numb everyone and everything around him instead of figuring out the emotions he faced with his situation. Readers will start to understand that under the supposed “heartless, cruel man” lies a man who initially loved, lost, and found “the unexpected” in the most unlikely places.
Skylar Jackson may not be a full-on strong woman, but she is unique and intelligent enough to survive and keep to herself. The special edition’s book cover shows us an ethereal woman who amazing people like Silas with the aura and warmth she projects, even to sinners like Silas.
I hadn’t lied when I told her she was a beautiful contradiction. She hated being noticed but all she wanted in the world was to be seen. She had the sunniest disposition and a bleak outlook in life.
— Burning Brightly Bridges, Ivy Wild
Coming back to her hometown to only a waitressing job was not how Skylar wants. She had dreams and ambitions that did not pan out. Skylar knew that she had let people down, and coming back home brings many sad memories for her, most especially about Silas. Skylar’s personality is a big contradiction. She is a support for others but shrinks when it comes to her issues. She helps others but is “stuck” in not knowing how to improve her situation. She knows that she shouldn’t bother when Silas came for her. But when an offer that was too good not to accept comes her way and a jump to help her financially, how could Skylar protect herself and her heart while finding her self-worth again? If anything goes wrong, she might not survive the aftermath of the carnage that only Silas Jackson can bring.
We were such opposites. I wore my insecurities in the form of visible ink all over my body, whereas my insides were generally clean. Silas was pristine on the outside, but I knew his insides were more colorful than even my exterior.
— Burning Brightly Bridges, Ivy Wild
The conflict and ending of it was a blast from the past and unexpected. I appreciate that the story’s build-up has a lot to do with the relationship, leading us to understand the conflict and resolution better. There were too many “wrong moves.” Ultimately, both Silas and Skylar were more cunning, turning the story from being the victims to the victors. I will leave it there.
My overall impression:- Brightly Burning Bridges is a slow build, misunderstood characters book. Silas and Skylar’s connection is a slow build. There is something that connects yet polarizes them at the same time. I am not sure if it’s both of them fearing to be vulnerable, but they do share closely guarded-enough secrets to warrant a relationship. Whether it is friends or more is another question. I am still in awe that this author can change my perspective about Silas after ripping the character apart in Book 1! I wanted to see the worst in Silas, but it was the right amount. Silas’ façade duplexity is convincing. I would shed a tear when the author brings in Silas’ and Skylar’s painful scenes. I cannot say that this is a full-on enemies-to-friends or a bully romance. There are “bully-like” moments wherein Silas would taunt and “tease” Skylar to the point as a self-preservation mechanism in guarding the unexplained and uncontrollable emotions whenever he was with Skylar. Some may describe Silas as cruel or entitled or Skylar as a “push-over,” but the latter does fight for herself when she sees it to be warranted nearing the end. Skylar held herself well enough to have Silas’ requests and actions just roll-over her back like water off a duck’s back than stress over it. I appreciate how she curbed herself and did not bother “reacting.” This story made me believe in true love that can conquer all, even decades after a bad enough event that supposedly severed Skylar and Silas’ relationship. A must-read for angst, love, and emotional thrill readers, if you want every “feels” in you to come out.
This wasn’t some love story of redemption. He wasn’t going to be some transformed hero. Standing beneath him, locked in the darkness that was Silas, I understood that now. But, I also understood that maybe I wasn’t meant to run. Maybe, all this time, I’d been running from the one thing I needed: a rain cloud.
— Burning Brightly Bridges, Ivy Wild
PS: I love the artworks shown, which helped readers understand the type of art produced by one of the characters. Those artworks will help readers connect and appreciate the story, like the song list provided, even more.
About the Author
Writer of all things untamed, romantic, and free, Ivy Wild never planned on becoming a romance novelist. In fact, she hated romance as a kid and was quite proud of that fact. Basically, life is weird. Married to her own alpha hero, she currently lives in various places of the world at various times thanks to his military career. Her current side hustle is being a lawyer.
Disclosure: All views expressed are only my honest opinion. Published on: 21 January 2015 Type: HEA, series, standalone Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy Author: Denise Grover Swank Read: 23 March 2021 Shelved: 24 March 2021 Rating: 4 / 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Megan Vandemeer meant to tell her parents about her broken engagement, but a month and a half later she finds herself boarding a plane home to her wedding. Having stretched avoidance to its limits, it’s to come clean–a terrifying prospect since her mother is sure to blame her rather than her cheating, emotionally frigid ex. A couple of drinks and two Dramamine later, Megan finds herself spilling her sob story to the tall, dark, and handsome stranger in the seat next to her.
With only one week left to save his business, Josh McMillan boards a plane to Kansas City in a last-ditch effort, leaving the details to chance. An unexpected answer is delivered in the form of the beautiful brunette beside him. Though she’s completely loopy, her honesty, openness, and humor charm him. So when she passes out before landing, he helps her off the plane–a good deed that leads to a colossal misunderstanding. Her parents assume he’s her fiancé. In a twist of fate, the mix-up might help Josh save his business, so he plays along, figuring he can help Megan too. All he has to do is stage a public break up convincing enough to appease her mother.
Josh is only supposed to be a substitute groom, but the more time he and Megan spend together, the more their pretend engagement starts to feel real…and the less they want to break it off. Can a relationship that began as a farce turn into happily ever after?
Review
Megan Vandemeer is on a plane to fly back to her hometown for her weekend wedding. The catch is that she broke her engagement a few months ago. She was afraid to tell her parents, who have planned an elaborate wedding awhile now. Megan is not devastated about the break; instead, she worries about breaking her parents’ hearts and expectations. In comes her answer – Joshua not only saved her from airport security due to her drunken-state but also got entangled to be her stand-in fiance!
What I like…
1.) the comedic antics happening of supporting cast members of Grams, Libby, and Blaire; 2.) the sizzling attraction between Megan and Josh 3.) Nicole (aka “Knickers”) – Megan’s jaded, entitled mother-of-the-bride, termed as “Knickers,” running the wedding of their dreams versus the brides’ (to the point of changing the bride’s chosen wedding gown to the mother’s choice without her consent)
What I didn’t care for…
1.) the cliff-hanging moments from spilling the secret then gets retracted or diverted to something else; and 2.) the “feels” when confessions did come and I had to have a box of tissues beside me
Told from Megan and Josh’s POV, the Substitute’s writing is witty, concise, and humorous. The jokes were uber funny and well-placed in the scenes. There are many internal conflicts between main characters that would test out their moral ethics and judgment calls. The plot gets complex as the story went so do not gauge this story from only the synopsis because many heavy moments outweighed the funny.
I felt so bad for Megan and Joshua. The dilemma that each faced is has no upside since either decision will hurt the people they both love and care for. For Josh, it is either Megan or the business. For Megan, it is her family or Josh.
I do have my opinions:- for Megan’s case, I would “bite the bullet,” confess everything and be ready for the consequences. Megan’s reasons for breaking her engagement would have been acceptable, but carrying things too far and fooling everyone would be the more significant issue. Still, it would have been the easier way for Megan compared to putting the charade.
For Josh’s case, I am at a loss. I do not know how and what I would decide because it would affect others versus Josh himself. I believe he would survive the aftermath of either decision, but breaking people who trust him not to “burn” them is something else. Thing things and concerns that ran through Josh’s head were heavy. He was so torn on telling Megan or let someone else spill it for him. The truth was eating him up slowly throughout the story until the ultimate betrayal came that broke him.
I love Gram’s antics so much. I kept looking forward to her scenes for witty banter and wacky side comments that crack me up each time. She is an endearing character that I will remember for a while. Two words I will remember her for – “nudist colonies.” That is a sneak peek of what this woman has in her bag of jests.
In summary, the Substitute is all about the angsts that brought about events beyond Megan and Josh’s control. Both knew someone was to get hurt at the end. I would describe the book as a suspenseful one, especially when the author puts readers “on edge” each scene that might give the “truth” away. I was holding my breath throughout as Josh and Megan still did not know what to do. But as Fate decided how they meet, Fate decides the answer for them in the end.
This book is a must-read for readers who love “the unexpected,” the “serendipitous,” and love amidst “the impossible.” I cannot wait to see what will be next in the series.
About the author
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Denise Grover Swank was born in Kansas City, Missouri and lived in the area until she was nineteen. Then she became a nomadic gypsy, living in five cities, four states and ten ho uses over the course of ten years before she moved back to her roots. She speaks English and smattering of Spanish and Chinese which she learned through an intensive Nick Jr. immersion period. Her hobbies include witty Facebook comments (in own her mind) and dancing in her kitchen with her children. (Quite badly if you believe her offspring.) Hidden talents include the gift of justification and the ability to drink massive amounts of caffeine and still fall asleep within two minutes. Her lack of the sense of smell allows her to perform many unspeakable tasks. She has six children and hasn’t lost her sanity. Or so she leads you to believe.
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