The Last Noel by Kimberley Woodhouse, Sarah Hamaker, & Jayna Breigh

 The Last Noel

Book Summary

Christmas novellas from three award-winning suspense authors

The Last Noel is a riveting Christmas novella collection with suspense, intrigue, and second-chance romance.

"Do you See What I See?" by Sarah Hamaker

Oakleigh Wright's estranged foster sister reappears late one night desperate to hand off her children. Oakleigh agrees to bring them to their aunt out of state, but her travels are intercepted by a ruthless gang. She turns to her ex, Joseph, for help. Will they rekindle their love as they uncover what the gang seeks?

"Do You Hear What I Hear?" by Jayna Breigh

Trial lawyer Elise Sinclair resigns herself to a lonely Christmas reviewing legal documents—until her renegade fiancé, Jack, reappears. He is jobless, broken, and seeking forgiveness. Can two battered hearts overcome secrets and restore their love?

"Do You Know What I Know?" by Kimberley Woodhouse

When Faith Thibodeaux returns to her Cajun-style food truck in Alaska after an accident, the last thing she expects is to find out that her ex-boyfriend is the executive chef of a new restaurant. When they return to their hometown over the holidays to fundraise, will the "friendly" competition restore their love or rip them apart forever?

My Thoughts

The Last Noel is a festive treat for readers who like their holiday romance served with a dash of danger and a generous helping of heart. Sarah Hamaker, Jayna Breigh, and Kimberley Woodhouse deliver three entertaining romantic suspense novellas set against the warmth and wonder of the holiday season. Each story offers romance, suspense, and danger, along with likeable, relatable main characters who are easy to cheer for. I especially enjoyed the second-chance romances and the way faith is thoughtfully woven into each novella, with forgiveness serving as a meaningful thread throughout. While I would have loved the suspense to be ramped up another notch or two, I still found the collection satisfying and engaging. These three romantic holiday suspense tales make for a diverting, faith-filled read that will leave readers reaching for a cozy blanket and one more chapter.

Looking for a little holiday suspense to curl up with? The Last Noel is available now from Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and it’s ready to add a delightful shiver to your reading list. I’ll also be featuring a tasty cozy mystery, Board to Death by J.C. Eaton, on Thursday, August 20. Wishing you a bright, book-filled day—and until next time, happy reading and keep those pages turning!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of thi book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

An Unexpected Grace by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse

 An Unexpected Grace

Book Summary

Can unexpected grace lay the foundation for a second chance at love?

After a decade away, Parker Bennett returns home with a traveling troupe to perform a play based on Uncle Tom's Cabin at the Kalispell Opera House. Parker has relished his life on the road, but being home awakens long-buried emotions when he encounters his first love, Johanna St. John. He can't help but wonder if there might still be a place for him in her heart.

Widowed for three years, Johanna devotes all her time to a demanding toddler, an injured father, and a successful millinery business. After the loss of her husband, she desires to move on, but reconnecting with her past love leaves her unsure of what lies ahead. Both committed to God's distinct calling on their lives, Johanna and Parker struggle to see how their futures can unite, and when strange things start happening around town, their second chance at a life together seems more unlikely than ever.

Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse present another journey to the American Frontier with themes of second chances and the enduring power of grace despite life's trials. An Unexpected Grace makes a compelling read for fans of Christian romance novels, exploring love through the lens of faith.

My Thoughts

An Unexpected Grace by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is an uplifting second chance romance.  There is suspense courtesy of a wicked brother-in-law who will use any means necessary to get what he wants. I like the authors’ writing style. I found myself slowly being drawn into the story. I liked Joanna, who grew up in the ten years since she last saw Parker. She is a strong, determined, and creative woman. Joanna creates stylish hats for the ladies of the town (the hats during this time period were beautiful). I liked that Joanna had matured in character and faith.  Emily is a busy yet adorable child.  She managed to wrap Parker around her little finger. Marvella is a great character.  She added humor to the story.  

Faith is prominent throughout the story as well as hope and healing. I wish, though, that the plot had not followed a foreseeable path and there had been less reiteration.  The story has a good message and an ending that left me smiling.  An Unexpected Grace is a pleasing conclusion to The Jewels of Kalispell series. An Unexpected Grace is a touching tale with a blackguard brother-in-law, a rambunctious child, attractive chapeaus, a traveling troupe, a flirtatious Frenchwoman, and a gracious God. 

Sears & Roebuck Catalog 1902

An Unexpected Grace is available from Amazon.  The first two books in The Jewels of Kalispell series are The Heart's Choice and With Each Tomorrow.  You can find Tracie Peterson's other novels here and Kimberley Woodhouse's books here.  Kimberley Woodhouse has A Song in the Dark coming out September 23.  Tracie Peterson has A Moment to Love releasing on October 21.  It is the third book in The Hope of Cheyenne series.  Thank you for joining me today.  I will return tomorrow with my thoughts about A Lesson in Propriety by Jen Turano.  I was thrilled this weekend when a new roof was put on our home.  I no longer need to worry about rain coming in and destroying the walls and ceilings.  The carport (and my new porch) is next, but I need to wait three more weeks. The permits have not come through yet (a norm since the two hurricanes last year). I will be glad when the destruction caused by Hurricane Milton is in my rearview mirror.  I hope that you have a day filled with joy.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Bridge of Gold by Kimberley Woodhouse

 Bridge of Gold

Book Summary

Repairs on the Golden Gate Bridge Uncover a Century-Old Murder

 

Walk through Doors to the Past via a new series of historical stories of romance and adventure.

 

Underwater archaeologist Kayla Richardson is called to the Golden Gate Bridge where repairs to one of the towers uncovers two human remains from the late 1800s and the 1930s. The head of the bridge restoration is Steven Michaels, who dives with Kayla, and a friendship develops between them. But as the investigation heats up and gold is found that dates back to the gold rush, more complications come into play that threaten them both. Could clues leading to a Gold Rush era mystery that was first discovered during the building of the bridge still ignite an obsession worth killing for?

My Thoughts

Bridge of Gold by Kimberley Woodhouse is the third novel in Doors to the Past series.  I thought Bridge of Gold was well-written with developed characters.  It is a time slip novel told from two time periods and from multiple points of view.  It can be confusing in the beginning until you adjust (learn the characters).  I like that we also get the villains point-of-view in both time periods.  It makes the story more intriguing, and I like figuring out the identity of the bad guy.  The author did her research for this book.  She captured the 1930s and the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.  It was interesting learning what went into making this beautiful and lengthy bridge.  The divers had their work cut out for them with the shifting currents and steep drop off.  I loved the addition of a sunken ship with treasure.  I like how the author tied the past and present together with a satisfying conclusion.  I appreciate it when the author makes sure that there are no loose ends.  I also liked how faith was incorporated into the story.  I enjoyed the descriptions of San Francisco along with those below water.  The authors word imagery allowed me to imagine seeing the treasure ship for the first time along with feeling the excitement.  The romances were clean and the historical one was sweet.  The author expertly weaves together the past and present into one pleasing tale.   Each novel in the Doors to the Past series can be read on its own.  Bridge of Gold is a compelling novel with greed, murder, a buried ship, sought after treasure, faith, and love.  

Bridge of Gold can be purchased from Amazon*.  The first two books in Doors to the Past series are The Lady in Residence and Hope Between the Pages.  You can find Kimberley Woodhouse's other novels here.  Thank you for stopping by today.  I will be back on Monday to share my thoughts on Edie's Home for Orphans by Gracie Taylor.  I hope that all of you have a relaxing weekend.  Take care, be kind, and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader 

*This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Endless Mercy by Tracie Peterson & Kimberly Woodhouse: Review & Giveaway!

 

About the Book

Book:  Endless Mercy

Author: Tracie Peterson, Kimberly Woodhouse

Genre: Christian historical romance

Madysen Powell has always been a forgiving person, but when her supposedly dead father shows up in Nome, Alaska, her gift for forgiveness is tested. With the recent loss of her mother, she searches for answers, leaning on Grahttps://amzn.to/3tgOnaZnny Beaufort, a neighbor in town, who listens with a kind heart. Still, Madysen is restless and dreams of performing her music around the world. The arrival of a traveling show could prove just the chance she needs, and the manager promises more than she ever dreamed.

Daniel Beaufort arrives in Nome, searching for his own answers after the gold rush leaves him with only empty pockets. Still angry about the death of his loved ones, he longs to start fresh but doesn’t have high hopes until he ends up helping at the Powell dairy making cheese. Drawn to the beautiful redhead with big dreams, will deceptions from the past tear apart any hope for the future?

Click here to get your copy!

About the Authors

Tracie Peterson (www.traciepeterson.com) is the award-winning author of over 100 novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her many bestselling series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. 

Kimberley Woodhouse (www.kimberleywoodhouse.com) is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than fifteen fiction and nonfiction books. A popular speaker and teacher, she’s shared her theme of “Joy Through Trials” with more than half a million people across the country at more than 2,000 events. Kim and her incredible husband of twenty-five-plus years have two adult children. She’s passionate about music and Bible study and loves the gift of story.

More from Kim

It’s so exciting for book two in our Treasures of Nome series, Endless Mercy, to be heading out into the world! Tracie and I are so thrilled to bring you another story set in Nome, Alaska. And isn’t that cover gorgeous? Bethany House does such an amazing job with our books, it is an absolute joy to get to work with them.

In book one, Forever Hidden, we are introduced to three sisters and their family (and farm) in Nome. Forever Hidden is Havyn’s story. And did I mention there are chickens? Check out my blog for some interesting pictures and stories about how these chicken stories came to be…

Book two, Endless Mercy, is Madysen’s story. Madysen is the youngest sibling, and in our story, she’s a talented cello player. Oh, and there are some sheep, who just might help get her into mischief. (Are you seeing a pattern here?)

Book three will release January 2022 and will finish out the Powell girls’ stories with the eldest, Whitney.

This series is very near and dear to us because the Powell sisters in the books are actually named after three beautiful girls we adore. They were music students of mine in Colorado and when Tracie and I had a book signing for In the Shadow of Denali, the red-headed, musical sisters all came. Tracie made the comment that someone should write a book about them…so of course…we did!

I wish you could hear the girls play and sing in real life. They are such talented musicians, and I love them dearly. Huge thanks go to Monica and Merle Powell for allowing us to take their three girls and make fictional characters out of them.

Here’s a picture of Monica with me and Tracie at a book signing years ago. And then of course, I had to put in a picture of the real Powell girls.

We’d love for you to join us for The Treasures of Nome. Enjoy the blog tour!

My Thoughts

Endless Mercy by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse has Madysen Powell feeling angry towards her father.  All these years the three girls thought he was dead.  Now he shows up looking to reconnect with them and he is asking for forgiveness.  Madysen loves her sheep and is looking forward to the expansion of the cheese business.  However, Madysen dreams of singing in concert halls around the world.  When a man shows up in town who can offer her this opportunity will Madysen leave Nome or will she pick the man a little closer to home?  I thought Endless Mercy was a well-written novel with developed characters.  While the story focuses on Madysen, we get to catch up with the other two sisters.  Havyn is happily married while Whitney is busy training her sled dogs.  The grandfather is recovering, and the girls’ father has arrived in town.  Judas Reynolds has not given up on finding leverage on the Powell family.  I thought the authors’ captured the time period and the location of Nome, Alaska.  I enjoyed the descriptions of the town, the sisters’ performances, the farm, and the process of making cheese.  I liked seeing Madysen grow as an individual.  Madysen must decide whether to pursue her singing ambitions or the path the Lord has set for her.  Mercy, grace, and forgiveness are the main themes in Endless Mercy.  I like how faith and God are incorporated into the story. I thought Endless Mercy was a well-balanced novel.  Endless Mercy is the 2^nd book in The Treasures of Nome series.  Endless Mercy can be read as a standalone, however, I recommend reading both books (in order) in this engaging historical series.  I am looking forward to reading the Whitney’s story in the final installment in The Treasures of Nome series. 

Giveaway

To celebrate their tour, Kimberley and Tracie are giving away the grand prize package of Forever Hidden, Endless Mercy, and this candle!! (https://etsy.me/2JvrO0a).  Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click here to enter.  Good Luck!  Endless Mercy is available from Amazon* as well as Forever Hidden.  Tracie Peterson has Destined for You coming out March 2.  It is the first novel in Ladies of the Lake series.  Kimberley Woodhouse has Bridge of Gold publishing June 1.  It is the third book in Doors to the Past series.  Thank you for visiting today.  Do not forget to enter the contest.  Tomorrow I am featuring Victoria Town Mysteries by Mollie Cox Bryan.  I hope that each of you have an inspiring day. Take care, be kind, and Happy Reading! 

Kris

The Avid Reader

Blog Stops

Through the Fire Blogs, January 25

Connie’s History Classroom, January 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 26

Breny and Books, January 26

Christian Bookaholic, January 27

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 28

Splashes of Joy, January 28

Batya’s Bits, January 28

She Lives to Read, January 29

Sara Jane Jacobs, January 29

Remembrancy, January 30

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 30

Older & Smarter?, January 31

deb’s Book Review, January 31

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 1

For Him and My Family, February 1

Bigreadersite, February 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 2

Inspiration Clothesline, February 2

Artistic Nobody, February 3 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Empowermoms, February 3

Texas Book-aholic, February 4

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, February 4

Vicky Sluiter, February 4

Inklings and notions, February 5

Daysong Reflections, February 5

The Avid Reader, February 6

Hallie Reads, February 6

Adventures of a Travelers Wife, February 7

Pause for Tales, February 7

Bizwings Blog, February 7

*This post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Under the Midnight Sun by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse

Good Day!  Seven Deadly Zins by Nancy J. Parra will be released on January 8 along with Seasons of an Amish Garden by Amy Clipston and The Lost Traveller by Sheila Connolly.   The Wartime Sisters by Lynda Cohen Loigman will be out on January 22.

Under the Midnight Sun by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is the final story in The Heart of Alaska series.  Taylor Cole is a naturalist and guide at Yellowstone National Park.  She returned home after her father passed away to console her mother, but her mother has dedicated herself to Hale Industries.  Mrs. Hale does, though, continue to pressure her daughter to marry Emerson Pruitt to whom she became engaged to ten years prior.  After discovering his cheating way, Taylor called off the engagement three years ago.  Taylor returns to the job she loves at Yellowstone.  When she gets a letter from Emerson stating he is coming to fetch her, Taylor decides it is time to disappear.  With the aid of her boss, Taylor obtains a position at the Curry Hotel in Alaska Territory.  Thomas Smith has recently graduated from college and returned to the place and people he loves at the Curry Hotel.  With a summer full of tourists, Thomas is happy they have hired a new guide to aid Mr. Bradley and himself.  They are unprepared for diminutive Taylor who is determined to prove that she can handle the job.  Thomas had a bad experience in college with a young woman and it makes him leery of trusting Taylor.  The summer will prove to be challenging for the people who live and work at the Curry Hotel.  Thomas and Taylor will need to keep their wits about them if they are to navigate through the difficulties that lay ahead of them. 

Under the Midnight Sun is a complex and multifaceted novel.  I thought is was well-written with a good flow.  The transitions between characters is smooth.  I found the story captured my attention and held it.  There are multiple characters with Taylor Hale and Thomas Smith being the main focus.  We do get to catch up on Colette, Margaret Johnson, Allan and Cassidy Brennan with their busy twin boys, Pastor Wilcox, and Jen-Michel and Katherine.  I like that the authors featured a strong female main character who has gone to college and is in an unusual profession.  I recommend reading the book in The Heart of Alaska series in order.   I have enjoyed watching Thomas go from a gangly and clumsy boy to a confident adult with a strong faith in God.  Colette has settled into life at the Curry Hotel and finds herself attracted to Dr. Reilly.  Margaret Johnson, the cook for the Curry Hotel, finds herself with two suitors much to the staff’s amusement.  Can Margaret open her heart to a new love?  The Christian element is strong in Under the Midnight Sun as our characters pray for guidance and seek the counsel of Pastor Wilcox.  There are scripture references and discussions about faith (forgiveness, following God’s path for our life, prayer).  I enjoyed the beautiful descriptions of Alaska (I would love to visit).  I am giving Under the Midnight Sun 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it).  There are recipes from the Curry Hotel at the end of the book.  The ending will leave you with a smile on your face (it is cute and romantic).  Under the Midnight Sun is an engaging historical novel that has well-developed characters, intrigue, romance, suspense and humor. 

The first two books in The Heart of Alaska series are In the Shadow of Denali  (on Kindle Unlimited) and Out of the Ashes.  Thank you for stopping by today and reading my review.  I am going to feature The Amish Sweet Shop by Mary Ellis, Laura Bradford and Emma Miller tomorrow.  May you have a day filled with happiness.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris
The Avid Reader

Out of the Ashes: The Heart of Alaska

Hello!  Lies that Comfort and Betray by Rosemary Simpson will be published on January 30.  It is the second book in A Gilded Age Mystery series.  What the Dead Leave Behind is the first book in this series.

Out of the Ashes by Tracie Peterson and Kimberley Woodhouse is the second book in The Heart of Alaska series.  Jean-Michel Langelier just lost his father which leaves him responsible for his younger sister, Collette.  Collette has been encouraging Jean-Michel to take a trip to get away from the memories that haunt him, when he receives an invitation from Maria Harrison.  She is asking him to travel to Alaska and stay at the Curry Hotel.  Katherine Demarchis is the widow of Senator Demarchis, but she does not grieve his loss.  The man her father forced her to marry was a cruel, demeaning person.  Katherine just wants to live out her life as quietly as possible, but her grandmother (Maria Harrison) has requested that she accompany her on a trip to Alaska.  After taking the scenic route across the United States, they arrive in Alaska and Katherine is startled to see Jean-Michel.  Katherine and Jean-Michel had fallen in love five years prior in France.  However, her father was against the match and quickly set out arranging a marriage for Katherine.  In the intervening years, they each have experienced different horrors that have changed them (Jean-Michel was a soldier in a war zone and Katherine had an abusive husband).  Will the magic of the Curry Hotel and its congenial staff help these two heal?  Is there a chance for them to have a future together?

Out of the Ashes is nicely written (I like the writing style) and has a good pace throughout the story.  It did, though, take me a while to get into the story.  Once I did, my attention was held until the end.  While Out of the Ashes is the second book in The Heart of Alaska series, it can be read alone.  The religious aspects are prevalent throughout the story (having faith, scripture, forgiveness of others and oneself, power of prayer).  We get to see people discovering God and developing a relationship with Him.   We get good descriptions of the characters, town and area.  This area of Alaska sounded beautiful.  I liked the characters who worked at the hotel.  They are what make the story enjoyable (enhance it). I felt that the authors accurately portrayed how a victim of mental abuse would act and feel.  It is not something that goes away immediately just because the abuser is gone.  It can take many years (if ever) for an individual to get the thoughts to go away. There is, of course, some predictability to the story, and I felt that the book was a little too long (could have used some editing).  There is a lovely ending that wraps up the main storylines.  I give Out of the Ashes 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it).  The next book in The Heart of Alaska series is Under the Midnight Sun.  In the Shadow of Denali is the first book in this series and available through Kindle Unlimited.

If you find my reviews helpful, please consider adding me to your Google+ circle or subscribing via email (at right).  I will be sharing my review of A Song Unheard by Roseanna M. White tomorrow.  The second book in Shadows over England series.  May you have a stupendous day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris
The Avid Reader