New Book Reviews and a Poll!

Hi, readers! As you likely already know by now, I've had a new release in the past week or so. Here are some cool new book reviews for it...

 

Elizabeth McDaniel

5.0 out of 5 stars Interesting and exciting

Reviewed in the United States on November 27, 2020

Fara was orphaned and left in care to her estranged and forbidding uncle when she was a young girl and was completely under his control. The mysterious captain Grant happened upon two men accosting Fara one night and saved her. Fara and Captain Grant led an arduous, tortuous, dangerous, intriguing, twists and turns, spy filled, gossiped about love affair that led through a few long years of struggling with and without each other while trying to find their way to their HEA. Good read.I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

 

Brenda Moser‘s review

Nov 23, 2020

it was amazing

Read 2 times. Last read November 23, 2020.

This is a well written historical romance set in the 1860’s France. The author does a beautiful job taking you back in time with her detailed and descriptive writing and kept me turning the pages with the surprises and twists along the way. Her characters are strong and her scenes are painted perfectly. The story moves fluidly and is a great read.I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given. 

 

brbrwtts1

@brbrwtts1

 

Recommended and rated this book FIVE STARS

Book one in the The Heiresses in Love Series a well written Victorian story that kept me turning pages. French heiress Fara Bellamont, Captain Grant Hill, and their son Gabriel, Madame Lina Devereux, and Fara’s servants Rosalie and Pierre, and Eric the Captain’s mate’s story. There is suspense, drama, danger, capture and torture, a villain, and a second chance. This is a new Author to me, I want to read more in this series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

 

Anonymous5

@Mom_of_5

Recommended and rated this book

 

Ms. Lavender is a new to me author so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked this up. I have to say I was very pleasantly surprised. This is the first installment of Heiresses in Love series. I think it is off to a splendid start! This book is not only written in my favorite genre, but it is filled with drama, action, and adventure which makes this a very entertaining and intriguing read. I really appreciated the way the author explained the social norms of the day and weaved them smoothly into the story. The characters had such great charisma and personalities that I was instantly drawn to their story and was completely immersed till the end. A smooth storyline with plentry of plot twists that kept me turning the pages anxious to find out what happens next. A beautifully written, well-crafted story, and I enjoyed every page. I will definitely be looking for more from this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

9 days ago

Space Cowgirl‘s review (also on Amazon)

Nov 23, 2020

Sailing Away
A Want She Didn’t Understand…
ADULT Victorian Era Romance and Adventure
.
1853
Tara, a young, eight year old French girl, has only her mother’s ball gown, a painting, and a few momentos to remind her of her parents, both killed by Turkish Pirates while they were on a sea voyage. For them, it was love at first sight when they met.Now Tara is to go live with her father’s brother, Michel de Bellamont, her uncle, a somber and distant unmarried businessman.

1863.
Long years at a convent being educated made Tara realize she has no life of her own. When she got out, she had a season, then her uncle chose a husband for her, a Mr Jean Le Croix, a wealthy young man she doesn’t know. It’s a living nightmare! He’s a nightmare! He’s her betrothed!

Mr Le Croix asks her to meet him at the docks, but instead, she is attacked and injured by two hired thugs upon her arrival there. Luckily, she is saved by a handsome and skilled swordsman. He is Grant Hill, the Captain of the ship Voyager.

ARC Provided by Booksprout
This ebook was $2.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.

There are a number of continuity errors in the ARC copy I am reviewing from. There are also a lot of Historical errors. A riding horse is not a destrier! A healthy nineteen year old woman of wealth isn’t attended by a nursemaid! She would have a lady’s maid.
However, I did enjoy the story line of the book, but I disliked the character of Tara. She grows up in a convent, but apparently learned nothing there about being humble or kind. In the short time she is around her horrible arrogant uncle, she becomes much like him! Grant saves her bacon time and time again and she appreciates nothing.

The book is a goofy mix of French and English characters and customs. It supposedly takes place in France but the customs seem more English than French.

CathyLynn

5.0 out of 5 stars What a wonderfully woven tale

Reviewed in the United States on November 23, 2020

Fara had a tragic life, and yet she was stronger for it. Captain Grant rescues her one night and they are drawn to each other. Due to the era that they live, it was hard to have a relationship with someone outside your class and standing. These two wonderful characters not only bucked the system but had the relationship that they deserved. There are bumps during the journey, but what a journey it is. The characters were great and you wanted to cheer for them. The story line was great and I could not put it down. What a wonderful tale she told.I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Crystal Crossings

TOP 1000 REVIEWERVINE VOICE

5.0 out of 5 stars A lovely historical romance.

Reviewed in the United States on November 22, 2020

You will find action, adventure, and a bit of romance in this wonderful Victorian tale. Grant Hill our ship captain of course is not suitable for a lady such as Fara Bellamont but tell the heart that because he is what she wants. This book has such a wonderful feel to it so well-written with the sense you are in the 1860s. I was completely engaged and found it hard to put down okay I will admit I had to finish it before I could get stuff done around the house but hey that is the joy of being retired. This is a book I highly recommend and this author is going to be someone I will be watching. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it. 

 

 

Also, a few for Chasing Ginger are included below.

 

 

Pamela's review

Nov 30, 2020

it was amazing

Oh, what a fun romance comedy this was! I love Ginger! As a larger woman, I can relate to her concerns but I, too, am a confident person about who I am. Taking a pill to fix all your problems. Hmmm, wouldn’t that be nice! Fun and full of adventure! I really enjoyed reading this book! Look forward to more in the Misfits series!

Lynelle

4.0 out of 5 stars A great chick-lit comedy for every romantic.

Reviewed in the United States on November 12, 2020 (on Goodreads too)

A romantic comedy with a difference. It is fast-paced setting allows you to enjoy the quirky moments while you get lost in the easy flow.
Chasing Ginger is a unique plot that begins with a mysterious pill that promises the most unbelievable things to any woman that feels neglected by Cupido.
When Ginger Halloway applied to the experiment, she had no idea how her life would change. Due to her, not so popular size, she had almost given up on the right man. But an impromptu meeting led to a ride in the limo which led to… no spoiler alert here.
If you are looking for a quick chick-lit read, then this is your book. The characters are flawed in a beautiful emphatic way which made it believable while the fun never stops when the Misfits steps in.
And the hunk? Well… heavy sigh – dreamy look.
Do I need to say more… use your imagination and get on the ride of InstaSin.

1 of 5 stars2 of 5 stars3 of 5 stars4 of 5 stars5 of 5 stars

Chasing Ginger (The Misfits, #1)
by

Marie Lavender (Goodreads Author)

Betanda Shanam‘s review

Oct 24, 2020

really liked it

Discontent with her non-existing love life and lacking confidence in her body image, Ginger decides to take part in a drug trial that claims the drug will make her irresistible to the opposite sex. Giddy with the prospects of finding romance, Ginger signs up for an online dating service. Overnight she receives an influx of online requests for a date from prospective boyfriends. Ginger decides on back-to-back speed dating to vet a handful of the potential suitors. Little did she know she would be chased by a lustful mob, which drops her into the arms of hunky rich guy who smells so delicious. Unsure if it is the effect of the wonder drug, Ginger has misgivings regarding the attention this dream guy is giving her.Marie Lavender writes a humorous meaningful story, in Chasing Ginger. I rarely laugh out loud when I read, I have a very selective humor, but I did find myself giggling at some of the scenes in Chasing Ginger. Marie’s writing made everyday situations sound interesting. Whilst this is a humorous read, it also delivers a meaningful message of accepting ourselves for who we are and to take a leap of faith in our own abilities, like we so often do in others. A truly delightful read.

I give this book 4 stars

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Additionally, please visit our book launch party next week for the chance to win some great prizes!

 

And if you answer this short reader poll now, it would really help me and provide an idea of what format everyone prefers for the live Q&A session.

 

Would you rather...

Watch a Facebook live video and comment/add your questions for me in a post thread discussion?

Have a group chat message with all release party participants, where you can post questions and I will answer them in a Facebook live video?

Do a basic, yet live Q&A chat?

Participate in a free conference call, a safe environment where you can ask me questions directly and you will listen in to my natural voice as I answer (as various types of technology make your voice sound different)?

Created with Survey Maker

 

Thanks so much, and do your best to stay safe these days in such chaotic times!

 

 

I love the movie 'The Princess Bride'! ;)

LOL! No, but seriously, I hope you take care of yourselves. 

 

Have a great weekend! ♥

Girl Who Reads: 10 New & Notable Romance Novels

Chasing Ginger is listed in this group of books! ;)



#bookreviews #RomanceReaders 



Girl Who Reads: 10 New & Notable Romance Novels: by MK French Romance novels are great for escaping reality for a few hours. Whether you want hot & steamy, fun & fluffy, or sad but ...

Double Awesome Reviews!

Great news! Yesterday I discovered these cool reviews for my books…

 

Blood Instincts, a paranormal romance/urban fantasy (with a slightly futuristic angle)

 

 

A Special Creature

By David Burnett on August 16, 2018

Format: Kindle Edition

 

I’ve not read the first volume in the Blood at First Sight series. I enjoyed this book as a stand alone work with no problem. 

 

The story revolves around Oliver, a vampire, and Myah, whose father was a vampire and whose mother was human. They were not supposed to be able to have children, so Myah is special. Myah does not know her heritage , and the story revolves around Oliver’s attempt to introduce her to the life of an “other.”

The book was easy to read, interesting, and enjoyable. The plot moved quickly. The romantic scenes were detailed and sensuous. The author led me to care about Myah. I found myself feeling rather protective of her and becoming concerned whenever I suspected that any other creature – human or otherwise – might harm her.

I will confess that I do not often read paranormal romance. I was drawn to the book because I have enjoyed dome of the author’s other work. However, I found Blood Instincts to be enjoyable and well-worth a read.

-----

Heiresses in Love Trilogy, a historical romance boxed set (covers the entire Heiresses in Love Series)

Adrienne will she fight for love or fall

By Barbara ( Babs ) Hightower – VINE VOICE on April 24, 2018

Format: Kindle Edition

 

Fara doesn’t want to risk her heart but she does, and what will happen?

 Chloe doesn’t tell the whole truth to a man she loves.

Adrienne…will she fight for love or fall?

All of these stories were well written by a great author. The reader will be gripped to the pages waiting to find out what happens. Great word building and great characters you want to see good things happen to.

Wow! Thanks, David and Barbara, for your kind comments! ♥

Fly away, UYL! Soar!

In 2002, I came up with an idea for a story. This was a historical romance. I pictured the hero and heroine so vividly, fighting about politics, about the danger he faced in times of war. It was quite an emotional moment for young Fara, knowing what she did about the man she desired. 

But after so many years writing and polishing UYR, I needed to release it from its chains. In 2012, I was offered a book contract for Upon Your Return.

The series just built from there...

Fast forward fifteen years from its inception, and recently, the final book of the series, Upon Your Love, was released in February. 

 
Today I come to you, feeling as if at last the children of my heart - all of the characters from the series - are off on their own for the world to see. 

 
Below, you'll catch a great review from David, who was kind enough to leave these awesome words on Amazon about UYL:

"Marie Lavender's books revolve around strong female characters who find themselves struggling to attain their goals in spite of opposition from the social conventions of their times and the attempts of men to control their lives. Upon Your Love is no exception. Set in the nineteenth century, it is the story of Adrienne Hill, the daughter of a sea captain, who lives on a plantation near New Orleans.

Adrienne is no 'shy flower.' She fences and she rides. She travels about the plantation without a chaperone or a guardian, protected by weapons hidden on her person. She goes to sea with her father, and at times, wished she were a sailor.

The book traces the rocky development of her love for Christian, a strong man with a "bad boy" reputation who is attracted to the independent, strong-willed Adrienne.

If you enjoy historical romances with strong characters, plot twists, danger, and love, you will like this book."

Wow! Thank you so much for your awesome commentary, David! :) Readers, don't forget to check out the Heiresses in Love Series, full of romance and maritime adventures! 

 

New Review for UPON YOUR HONOR!

Just saw this exciting 5 star book review on Amazon for UYH!

 

Beautifully told love story

 

By Iris Pross on April 15, 2016

 

Format: Kindle Edition

 

A beautifully told story, I fell in love with the characters almost instantly. Chloe is everything I look for in a book heroine. She is brave, courageous and assertive without coming across as brisk or overbearing. She has yet to come across a challenge she will not meet face on and surpass. Gabriel is handsome and brave. He is everything Chloe needs and completely sigh-worthy.

Watching these two characters fall in love was a joy. Ms. Lavender knows how to tell a great love story and I can't wait to read more of her work.

---

Thanks so much, Iris, for your kind words! :)

Two great reviews for SECOND CHANCE HEART!

It's amazing what you find when you're browsing Goodreads! I just found two reviews I hadn't seen before for Second Chance Heart, my latest contemporary romance release! 

 

 

Second Chance Heart
by Marie Lavender (Goodreads Author)

Azia's review

Nov 18, 15

I really enjoyed reading this short story about forgiveness and second chances. I loved the characters and the ending, although, I wanted to read more about these two. Over all a very sweet romance with a lot of deep emotion that is well written and worth reading.I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great short romantic read. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Second Chance Heart by Marie Lavender (Goodreads Author)

Mindy Bigham's review

Dec 09, 15

*I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Dana Nelson is forced into a Inn for the night in shelter of a storm coming through. She is caught off guard when she runs into the one person that broke her heart. This is a very short read about love, betrayal and forgiveness of two people that really never got over each other.

The author fits so many emotions into this short read. I think this was a very sweet read and would recommend it to anyone that just needs something to read and don’t know what they are looking for. This book makes you believe that maybe someone does deserve a second chance.

Exciting, huh? Thank you, Azia and Mindy, for your kind words about SCH! :)

5 Star Review for ALM on Readers' Favorite!

Yay! I just received some wonderful news that A Little Magick got a five star review on Reader's Favorite! :)

 

Book Review

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

A Little Magick (Magick Series Book 2) by Marie Lavender revolves around a cute little girl, Rosie, who goes to stay with her uncle. Uncle Adam's home is big and he has built a tree house in the yard for Rosie, and has also made arrangements to work from home. He knows Rosie's mother is a Wiccan and though he feels a little uncomfortable when she is around, he loves his niece. Rosie makes a lot of new friends and enemies while staying at her uncle's place. Adam and Rosie get along well, but then slowly Rosie discovers she is a witch and begins to change, and her powers start coming to the fore. This story of fantasy is not just for children, even adults will enjoy the book.

The theme of bullying also runs through the plot, apart from the romantic angle between Adam and the cook Selena. All the characters are well sketched, especially that of Rosie. The book also conveys the message that with power comes accountability. The story is neat and simple and Rosie's magick connects well with readers. The narration is detailed and descriptive, making the scenes come alive while reading.

It's a thoughtful story for kids. Books with a message and moral are always good to read as children will be able to understand them better via a story. Little Magick is a good book and it's quite interesting to read how Rosanna deals with her powers when she finds out about it.

Great New Review for ALM!

I just stumbled across this wonderful book review for A Little Magick on Goodreads! Thanks for your kind words, Cynthia! :)

Cynthia Varady's review

Sep 17, 15

 

 

A Little Magick captures what it's like to be a kid out of her element perfectly. Rosie is a sweet little girl who is to spend the summer with her uncle as her father adjusts to his new job and her mom is out of town. While she's at her uncle's, Rosie begins to come into her powers, something Rosie's mother warned her uncle might happen. Of course, being a rational thinking lawyer, Rosie's uncle dismisses this heads up as the mildly deranged ravings of a hippy-dippy Wiccan.

Overall, this is a very sweet kids book about being different, although most kids aren't as different as Rosie, and accepting those differences as something that makes you, you. I felt a little bogged down by the mundane details at times, (what they were eating mostly) and was a little sad there wasn't more magic. However, the end of the book made up for the slow bits.

In addition to being a book about acceptance and personal responsibility, A Little Magick gives a beautiful peak into what it means to be Wiccan, an often misunderstood and dismissed religion. Though the years, I have known a few who have practiced Wicca and the creation of Rosie's altar and the taste of their core beliefs is handled with respect and deference.