REVIEW:

Oh my goodness! If you are looking for that one special Christmas book to read during the holidays, I have just the book for you. It is A Switch Before Christmas by Karen McQuestion. This book will be one of those you will want to read every year. It will also make a great Christmas present for any reader on your Christmas list. I fell in love with this book and although I am not one to re-read books, this is going to definitely be on repeat for me.

This was such a heartwarming story and one that I won’t forget for a long time. It takes place during the depression when things were tough. It is about a place called The Sheridan Girl’s Home. Some girls were orphans and some were there because their parents did not have the resources to take care of them. Just think about how sad that would be. These girls are only given just the necessities they need. They walk a mile to school and have chores to do when they get back. They don’t have a very easy life and don’t expect one either.

I did however enjoy their story and how they celebrate Christmas without gifts. This book really brings home how good life is for most of us. It may be hard but, we are pretty fortunate not to live in this time period as a person who doesn’t have much. There are many lessons to learn in this book. Things work out well for some and some learn lessons that need learning.

I was happy for some and I have to say that this book left me wanting a little more. It was so good. So heartwarming. I can only hope there is a sequel to this book at some time in the future. I think Ms. McQuestion did a great job with A Switch Before Christmas and it definitely needs the top spot on your nightstand during the coming holiday season. Until next time…Happy reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review. Just a few words will do.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SYNOPSIS:

Trading lives was just the beginning…

It’s the day before Christmas, and Jane Shaw’s biggest concern is that her young charges, the girls at the Sheridan Girls’ Home, will behave during the annual inspection by their patrons, the very wealthy Frank and Irene Sheridan.

That changes when the Sheridans’ daughter, Jacquelyn, nearly identical in looks to Jane, shows up instead of her parents. When Jacquelyn suggests that they switch clothing as a lark, Jane is uneasy, but she can’t say no.

A series of mishaps takes Jane to the Sheridans’ mansion and leaves Jacquelyn stuck in Jane’s clothes and life. Can they undo the switch before Christmas?

One thing’s for certain—this will be a Christmas they’ll never forget . . .

REVIEW:

Peril In Dry Springs by Kristina Hall is the sequel to Trouble In Dry Springs and the second book in the Dry Springs Chronicles. I wasn’t positive that these books were going to hold my interest. I read very few Westerns and that seemed like that was what they were going to be. I’m glad to say that I stepped out of my comfort zone and read these books because they are so much more than that.

This book does not stick to one specific genre. It is a little romance, a western, historical fiction, literary fiction and women’s fiction. I just don’t think you can nail it down to one genre and that is why I think I enjoyed this book so much. It has something for everyone. 

The characters are well thought out and presented. You will not have a problem remembering which character is which. They are unique in their own way. There is a doozy or two and there are the ones that make you yearn to reach out and give them a hug. That is when I know the characters are authentic. When I want to be their friend and hug them and encourage them in their journey.

I like that I get to find out what life was like in the earlier days of our country. I know that I wouldn’t want to give up my comforts of life and live the way they had to! I am glad to be where I am today. In my recliner with all the comforts of modern society. I have heat, air, running water, electricity and the internet. I even get to write to you about all the wonderful books I read.

If you like a book that expands your knowledge, a book that refuses to stay within one genre and one that gets you involved with the characters and their lives then this one is for you. Kristina Hall’s Dry Springs Chronicles belongs on your TBR on your nightstand. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed in this review are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SYNOPSIS:

Dry Springs hasn’t seen the last of trouble.

Ira Burke is surviving—just barely thanks to an injury that about stole his ability to hold down a job. The fact that the new saloon owner finds him a threat further complicates matters, as does the town matchmaker’s attempts to marry him off to the woman who helped him during the war.

Patience Ashbee arrives in Dry Springs to care for the younger sister she hasn’t spoken to in six years. What she doesn’t expect to find is an acquaintance from the war—or the dangers that follow her all too closely.

Because peril has once again come to Dry Springs.

From Kristina Hall, author of women’s Christian fiction, comes a historical novel featuring high stakes, faith, humor, and a hint of romance.

REVIEW:

Theodore: The Unfortunate Cat is book four in Theodore: The Neighbour’s Cat series by J. S. Ellis. I have been reading books by this author for a while. I have enjoyed this series for a few reasons. Let me tell you some of them.

The first thing that comes to mind is the very different premise for these books. They are books about a cat that gets around a bit. It seems like crime follows Theodore around. His current owner is Jane. I like Jane. She is an author but right now doesn’t seem to be doing a lot of writing. 

The stories are told from the point of view of Theo and Jane. I like hearing Jane’s side of things and the Cats. Theo is now the proud father of a couple of kittens. Pippa is the mother cat and Tobias and Suki are the kittens. The kittens give the parents the same grief human kids give their parents. It’s cute. 

The crimes being committed are usually centered around murder of some sort. In this book the theft and murder of Tuxedo cats is occuring. It is not detailed but there is a little talk of what is going on. I’m an animal lover and was much more involved in the other things going on in the story. 

These books are quick reads. J. S. Ellis keeps us interested and entertained. There is crime but it is not gruesome. If you like short, fun, crime centered reads this series Theodore: The Neighbour’s Cat should be on your nightstand. The books stand alone and Theodore: The Unfortunate Cat is a must read. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SYNOPSIS:

Now, as the father of two kittens, I must do anything to protect them.

But danger lurks close when I notice a man lingering outside the apartment window. The next night, there are two and then three.

Then Dean’s mother appears…

Women with dark hair are being killed in the same way Dean used to kill…

to make matters worse, Jane is attacked by a group of masked men, and one of my kittens is stolen. With Jane hospitalized, it falls to me alone to save sweet Tabios.

But these criminals are far more sinister than I could have ever imagined. They are fans of Dean, my murderous first owner.

What do they want with me and my kittens? Will I be able to free Tabios from their evil clutches?

REVIEW:

Beneath the Carolina Sun by Ashley Farley is once again a satisfying read. It is the second book in the Sandy Island series with Southern Discomfort being book one. I am really enjoying this series and looking forward to seeing where it goes and ends. 

I love that each series by this author is a total of three or four books and then a new series comes to us with a character or two from the previous series. It is an interesting take on writing and reading a series. I get involved with the characters and it is a fun way to keep the story moving. It lets a new reader jump in and not feel lost.

This series has brought us an interesting character that I don’t want to ever see leave but, I’m sure she will. Blossom is one of those heavenly characters that is wise and full of advice and understanding. She is there at all the right moments. I would love to have a Blossom in my life!

If you know anything about me by now, you know that Ashley Farley is at the top of my list of favorite authors. I have many of them but she is one of the authors that I don’t need to know the synopsis of the book to know I am going to read it. Each standalone book has its own flavor as does each series. When someone mentions one of her books or series, I am instantly transported into that world. I can see the buildings and the town. How many authors do that for you?

If you love clean books with romance, older and younger characters, some angst which is always a must, then you will love this series. It keeps you interested, involved and looking forward to the next book and the continuation of the plot. I will always recommend an Ashley Farley book for your nightstand. The Sandy Island series with Southern Discomfort and Beneath the Carolina Sun should be right on top! Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SYNOPSIS:

At Magnolia Shores, the stakes are high, and secrets hold the power to transform lives.

Kate has spent the past few weeks in the Lowcountry, caring for her mother after a stroke. Although she should have returned home by now, the allure of Magnolia Shores keeps her rooted in place. At a crossroads in her life, Kate rediscovers the carefree spirit of her youth. She faces a tough choice: return to a failing marriage in Texas or pursue a golden career opportunity in South Carolina looms large.

Grace holds the key to her mother’s future, and the weight of her confession could irrevocably alter their lives. How much is she willing to risk for the fairytale wedding of her dreams?

Meanwhile, Shelby settles into her role as reservations manager at Magnolia Shores, finding solace and purpose amidst the tranquil surroundings. However, her newfound contentment is shattered by the unexpected arrival of her sister, reopening old wounds. Being left out of Grace’s wedding party still stings. Can the sisters reconcile their differences and forge a path forward together?”

REVIEW LINKS:

A Wish For Forgiveness: https://pjp-reviews.com/2024/10/17/a-wish-for-forgiveness-by-amanda-prowse-5%e2%ad%90/

Wishful Tales: https://pjp-reviews.com/2024/10/17/wishful-tales-by-barbara-hinske-5%e2%ad%90/

One More Wish: https://pjp-reviews.com/2024/10/17/one-more-wish-by-tammy-l-grace-5%e2%ad%90/

A Wish In The Wind: https://pjp-reviews.com/2024/10/17/a-wish-in-the-wind-by-kay-bratt-5%e2%ad%90/

REVIEW:

A Wish In The Wind by Kay Bratt is book seventeen in The Wishing Tree Series. I think this is one of the first series that I have not lost interest in. I love series but, I will have to admit that if they go on too long I tend to lose interest in them. Not so with this one! I love the authors. Some of them are on my very favorite list. What could be better than that! I know! The first book in the series is a FREE download if you haven’t started it yet.

This book brings two new characters to Linden Falls. Hunter Glenn and his daughter Ava. So much happens in this story that it leaves you with a lot of emotion. That is exactly what Kay Bratt’s books do to me anyway. I loved this story. Getting to know two new characters was delightful. We get to see and hear from many of our favorite characters too.

So, if you have been following this series and you are hoping for something new, this is the book for you. We still have our beloved town of Linden Falls, The Wishing Tree, and a great cast of characters that will keep you coming back for more just like me. 

All of the books in this series stand alone. The stories in each one are different and start and end in the book. You will not be lost if you just happen to pick one up and read it. I think you will love the books so much that starting at the beginning with a FREE download of book one is the way to go. You meet the cast of characters and get a feel for the series.

This is a series that will be a great escape from the rush of the upcoming holidays. It will give you a reason to sit down and relax. Think of it as a little gift to yourself. We all need time to unwind and recharge. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SYNOPSIS:

Wishes in branches tied with string. Someone’s hopes. Another’s dreams.

It’s a new year and Linden Falls is a new place for Hunter Glenn and his daughter, Ava, to make a fresh start. When he goes to hang a wish on the tree in the center of town at the insistence of his daughter, a gust of wind strips it from his fingers and off it blows to somewhere who only knows. He’s not surprised. That pretty much sums up his life. It’s always been out of control.

Nicole is a long-term Linden Falls local who has recently gone through a welcome revelation that has changed her life forever. She’s looking forward to the new year now that she’s not alone. She wouldn’t dare wish for more good things, but when a slip of paper falls onto the tray she is using to serve a customer at the Crooked Porch, she might just find out that fate has even more in store for her.

Join Kay Bratt, International Bestselling author, as she brings the latest book in The Wishing Tree series alive, featuring a heart-warming tale of one man’s journey to finding love again.

REVIEW:

One More Wish by Tammy L. Grace is book sixteen in The Wishing Tree Series and another book that wouldn’t let me put it down. I love this series and all of the characters that inhabit the town of Linden Falls. It feels like home and the town folk feel like family. I love stories that rope me in and make me feel as if I am a part of it. The first book is a FREE download!

One of my favorite characters is Millie. I have a friend named Millie. It must be the name because these two women are giving, loving and family centered. Family also includes close friends. This story revolves around Millie. Her past meets her future in this book and I think you’ll like it as much as I did. You’ll be on the edge of your seat with your fingers and toes crossed!

Linden Falls happens to be the home of The Wishing Tree. You know, I need a wishing tree in my town. My yard would be more convenient. I have a lot of wishes I would like to put on those branches. Don’t you? Just think, a tree that makes your dreams come true. 

If you haven’t started this series yet, now is the time. It is one of my favorites. I am always excited to hear when a new one comes out. Today there are FOUR of them. All of the books stand alone and are a story all their own. So, you can jump in anywhere or get the first four books and start in. These are perfect to give yourself little treats during the busy holiday season coming up. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SYNOPSIS:

Wishes in branches tied with string. Someone’s hopes. Another’s dreams.In the quaint town of Linden Falls, Millie King and her loyal golden retriever have found solace and a sense of belonging, reveling in the charm of the close-knit community. But Millie hides a secret that defines her past and holds her back from true happiness.

Haunted by a trauma from decades ago, she is weighed down by guilt and sorrow. Determined to confront her past with the support of newfound friends Neva and Paige, Millie takes a leap of faith, risking everything she has built in Linden Falls.
As she unravels the layers of her past, Millie discovers that a lifetime of happiness and fulfillment lies just beyond her front door – if only she can overcome her fear of rejection.

In the heart of this idyllic town stands the legendary Wishing Tree, rumored to possess the power to grant wishes. Millie hangs her wish on a branch and hopes it can offer her the chance to undo the mistakes of her past, and find the love, acceptance, and forgiveness she so desperately craves.

Join Tammy Grace, USA Today Bestselling author, as she brings the latest book in The Wishing Tree series alive, featuring a heart-warming tale of love and loss, redemption and forgiveness, and the hope of turning lost dreams into second chances.

REVIEW:

A Wish For Forgiveness by Amanda Prowse will definitely pull the feels. I shed more than a few tears while reading this book. It is book number fourteen in The Wishing Tree Series. Book one is a FREE download if you haven’t started it yet. I absolutely love this series. 

This is a story that will rip your heart to pieces. It gently puts it back together again. The journey is worth it. Amanda  Prowse is one of my favorite authors. I’ve learned that a lot of her books are like that. She always leaves me with hope for humanity. She does not shy away from topics that are hard. She seems to see the light at the end of the tunnel when most of us don’t. If you haven’t read any of her books, I highly recommend her stories. They will fill you up.

The characters in this story are ones that you may be able to relate to in your life. We have all gone through something like these characters do or someone close to us has. I love to read something that hits close to home and gives me a new outlook or way of thinking about it. 

I have said it many times since starting this series that I love the town of Linden Falls and the Wishing Tree in the middle. Oh what I wouldn’t give to have a wishing tree in my town! I would keep the limbs full of my wishes! The folks that live there are people I would love to have in my own life.

If you haven’t read any of this series, I hope you give it a chance. All the books stand on their own. Put together they make a lovely series. This would make a wonderful gift for someone or one for yourself to give you a little peace during the rush of the upcoming holiday season. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SYNOPSIS:

Wishes in branches tied with string. Someone’s hopes. Another’s dreams.

Verity Darby found it hard to believe that seven years had passed since she had arrived in Linden Falls, where she promptly fell in love with the small town and the people in it.

Whether she believes in the magic that surrounds the old linden tree is neither here nor there, but one thing is for sure – she has found happiness and love, marrying army veteran Jack Darby, the love of her life.

Now running Claudine’s bistro, as chef-patron, life is good!

But when tragedy strikes, and a long-forgotten stranger makes a surprise appearance in town, the foundations on which Verity has built her life don’t seem quite so stable.

Caught in the middle of an explosive situation, with all sides determined to tell their truth, can Verity find a way to unite her family, or will her worst fears be realised, as her whole world implodes?

Sometimes to put things right, you have to make a wish for forgiveness…

REVIEW:

Wishful Tails by Barbara Hinske is the fifteenth book in the Wishing Tree Series written by several authors. I think this is one of the first series I absolutely fell in love with and I have read every book in the series. I can’t put them down.

First of all I will tell you that these authors write seamlessly. I really can’t tell one from the other although there are a few of them I review for on a regular basis. I think that says a lot about these ladies. They are tuned into this series and write it as one although each book is written individually. Some authors have written more books in the series than others. I love every chance I get to catch up with these characters.

The books take place in Linden Falls which is a small town. You know I really like small town settings. You get to know all of the characters intimately that way. The town has a tree in the park which they call the Wishing Tree. People put their wishes on a piece of paper and hang them on the tree. Other people sometimes will grant a wish and they also get answered by a higher power.

This book is about Pam and Steve. They work in a fitness center together and also on a home makeover show. This is the second season for the show and they are about to start filming. There is a lot that happens in this story and I want you to read it and enjoy the events as they happen. It is so much more fun that way and it will make your heart melt and your eyes leak.

If you love clean romance, small town relationships and just good down-home stories then you will love this series and Wishful Tails by Barbara Hinske. She does not disappoint with this new installment of the series. By the way, don’t be afraid to jump in and start with this book because they can all be read as a stand-alone. You also might like to know the first book in the series is a free download! What are you waiting for? Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

SYNOPSIS:

Wishes in branches tied with string. Someone’s hopes. Another’s dreams.

As the cameras roll for Season 2 of hit home-improvement show Wishes of Home, Pam Olson and Steve Turner dive into their biggest project yet: building the first no-kill animal shelter in their region. With their wedding just around the corner, they find themselves juggling work, wedding plans, and community service, while trying to squeeze in a moment or two of romance.

When a wildfire threatens their community, Pam and Steve rally the town of Linden Falls to come together in the face of disaster. With a nearby animal shelter threatened by the flames, the generous community of Linden Falls bands together to finish the new shelter, and take in and treat the four-legged evacuees.

But as the flames subside, the couple faces heartbreak when their wedding venue is destroyed, and Steve’s loyal black Lab disappears into the chaos. Join Pam and Steve on a journey of resilience, compassion, and the unwavering hope that even amidst the darkest of times, miracles can still happen.

REVIEW:

Oh Boy! I have some great news for you. I found a new author and a brand new series. The author’s name is Lara Van Hulzen and her new book is A Love Worth Waiting For. It is book one in a new series named The Nearlake Series. I found so many things to love about this first book so, I’m really excited for the rest of it to hit my inbox!

First of all, I totally fell in love with the cover. Isn’t it a beauty? I could sit on those chairs taking in that scenery all day long. I can’t stop looking at it. Of course, a good book, a cozy blanket and a hot thermos of tea would be the icing on the cake. 

I’ve been in my golden years for a while now so the romance of a teenager doesn’t always get me excited. This book is the romance of a couple in their forties. Those are at least years I can remember clearly. So, I enjoyed reading about a couple that have some experience under their belts. The main character is Sadie who is the owner of an antiques store in town. The love interest is James the Sheriff in town who has a teenage daughter. 

I truly enjoyed the developing relationship between these two. I am not going to spoil it and tell you how it all works out. You can read it and enjoy that for yourself. It is worth the journey. I especially liked her Aunt JoJo. 

This is another one of those special books that takes place in a small town. You know me and the fact that I love small town settings. I come from a little town and yearn to go back. These books always bring me back to my hometown. I think all small towns are the same. Everyone knows each other and they all know your business or at least think they do.

There is a little history in the book. The history of the town and history of the antiques store. The store also carries old books. How fun is that? If you like old things and people, history and a nice clean romance, I highly recommend this new book and the series that is to follow. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the #Lara Van Hulzen. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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SYNOPSIS:

Sadie Woods leads a structured life, and she likes it that way. As owner of her family’s antique store in the town where she grew up, she is surrounded by history. The past is full of intrigue and rich memories, while the present has bills piling up, her aunt battling breast cancer, and a future full of unknowns that have her grasping for hope.

Former professional football star James Larsen just wants a quiet life for himself and his teenage daughter, Maddie. Being Deputy Sheriff in the town he calls home is just right. In the wake of his wife’s death, he’s able to heal without too much attention, and life has become a comfortable routine he appreciates.

When Sadie’s shop is supposedly broken into, and James is the police officer called to the scene, the faded memories of attending high school together stir a connection neither of them is prepared for. While Sadie is knee-deep in trying to save her store, James is hesitant to let another woman into his and his daughter’s lives.

Both hesitant to trust, Sadie and James must brave a path that includes believing there is a love worth waiting for.