Sheila's Books Read

Sheila's bookshelf: read

The Best Intentions
Scotland's Melody
The Secret Society of Salzburg
Secret of the Sonnets
20-40-60-Minute Dinners: Meals to Match the Time You Have
Through the Wilderness: My Journey of Redemption and Healing in the American Wild
Secret Santa Claus Club: A Tool to Help Parents Unwrap the Secret of Santa
Mr. Pudgins
Revenge Never Rests
The Best Mistake
Meriden Park
More Inspirational Stories for Young Women
The Great Tree: A Christmas Fable
To Capture His Heart
The Call of the Sea
Esperance
Livvy and the Enchanted Woodland
Come, Gentle Night
The Bad Boy Theory
Guide To Smart Wedding Planning: What You want to know and everything you haven't thought of yet.


Sheila's favorite books »

Saturday, July 12, 2025

Cover Reveal & Giveaway for Winter's Season by R.J. Koreto-Historical Mystery Novel

Winter's Season by R.J. Koreto Banner

WINTER'S SEASON

by R.J. Koreto

 Cover Reveal

Book Synopsis:

Winter's Season by R.J. Koreto

In 1817 London, Before the Police, There Was Captain Winter.

London, 1817. A city teeming with life, yet lacking a professional police force. When a wealthy young woman is brutally murdered in an alley frequented by prostitutes, a shadowy government bureau in Whitehall dispatches its "special emissary"―Captain Winter. A veteran of the Napoleonic Wars and a gentleman forged by chance and conflict, Winter is uniquely equipped to navigate the treacherous currents of London society, from aristocratic drawing rooms to the city's grimmest taverns.

Without an army of officers or the aid of forensic science, Winter must rely on his wits and a network of unconventional allies. His childhood friend, a nobleman, opens doors in high society, while a wise Jewish physician uncovers secrets the dead cannot hide.

But Winter's most intriguing, and potentially dangerous, asset is Barbara Lightwood. Shrewd, beautiful, and operating as a discreet intermediary among the elite, Barbara shares a past with Winter from the war years. Their rekindled affair is fraught with wariness; she offers intimate information crucial to his investigation, but guards her own secrets fiercely. Like Winter, she is both cunning and capable of danger.

From grand houses to dimly lit streets, death stalks Captain Winter. He must tread carefully to unmask a killer, navigate a web of secrets and lies, and perhaps, in the process, save his own soul.

Book Details:

Genre: Historical Mystery
Published by: Histria Books
Planned Publication Date: January 20, 2026
Number of Pages: 300
ISBN: 978-1592116898
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads

 

Author Bio:

R.J. Koreto

R.J. Koreto is the author of the Historic Home mystery series, set in modern New York City; the Lady Frances Ffolkes mystery series, set in Edwardian England; and the Alice Roosevelt mystery series, set in turn-of-the-century New York. His short stories have been published in Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine and Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine, as well as various anthologies.

Most recently, he is the author of "Winter's Season," which takes place on the dark streets and glittering ballrooms of Regency-era London.

In his day job, he works as a business and financial journalist. Over the years, he’s been a magazine writer and editor, website manager, PR consultant, book author, and seaman in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Like his heroine, Lady Frances Ffolkes, he’s a graduate of Vassar College.

He and his wife have two grown daughters, and divide their time between Paris and Martha’s Vineyard.

Catch Up With R.J. Koreto:

www.RJKoreto.com
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads
BookBub
Instagram - @rjkoreto
Threads - @rjkoreto
Facebook - @rjkoreto

 

 

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Monday, July 7, 2025

A Hopeful Proposal: A Regency Romance By Samantha Hastings-Review


 

Book Synopsis

Since her mother’s disappearance seven years ago, Lady Sarah Denham has remained resolutely at Manderfield Hall. She is certain her mother will someday return home, so when the estate is sold, Sarah can’t bear to let go of the house or the hope it symbolizes. There’s only one solution that will allow her to stay: she must marry the new owner. But her impulsive proposal does not go as planned.

When Christopher Moulton takes over Manderfield Hall, the last thing he anticipates is an offer of marriage from the previous tenant. However, as a businessman, he can see one considerable benefit to the arrangement: Sarah’s high rank in Society will secure advantageous marriages for the two younger sisters left in his care. A bargain is struck, and wedding bells soon chime for the virtual strangers, but for Christopher, the pain of the past is inescapable. How can a proper lady ever come to love a scarred and rough-mannered man like himself?


Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Covenant Communications
  • Genre: Regency Romance
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 8, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 208 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1524428310
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****



My Review

A Hopeful Proposal is a love story like no other. It’s rare for a woman to propose, especially during the elegant Regency Era. Lady Sarah Denham has spent years mourning her mother, who vanished seven years ago. Deep inside, she believes she must stay in her family home, waiting for her mother’s return. Then, life throws a curveball and her home is suddenly sold right out from under her, forcing her to move. The new owner, Christopher Moulton, is "nouveau riche" and purchases the house for himself and his two younger sisters, who need help fitting into society. Things take an interesting turn when Lady Sarah offers Chris a "marriage of convenience," a plan designed to benefit them both.

This is where the fun begins, as these two strangers start to get to know each other while living as newlyweds. Both Chris and Sarah are very likable characters with many good qualities. Even though they've both faced tough times, I admired their strength and determination to keep doing their best. They complement each other well, despite coming from different backgrounds. Their witty conversations are delightful and will make you smile and laugh throughout the pages.

Sarah has this amazing gift of bringing out the best in everyone she meets. She does this for Chris, who needs a boost of confidence in his new role, and for his sisters, the shy Margaret and the lively Deborah. I also absolutely adored Lady Sarah's special bond with her Lady's Maid, Nelly, who she grew up with. Sarah never lets her status make her feel superior; she treats everyone with the same kindness and respect. That's why she'll always be one of my favorite female Regency characters.

As Sarah and Chris face their past struggles, they find love and hope. They help each other heal and grow stronger together. It's truly heartwarming to see them both finally find peace. This charming and enjoyable romance swept me away. It’s an inspiring love story that's definitely worth reading!


****Meet Author Samantha Hastings****

Samantha Hastings met her husband in a turkey sandwich line. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she spends most of her time reading, eating popcorn, having tea parties, and chasing her four kids. She has degrees from Brigham Young University, University of North Texas, and University of Reading (UK). She writes cozy murder mysteries under Samantha Larsen.

Learn more at www.SamanthaHastings.com or connect with her on social media: Twitter @HastingSamantha, Instagram @SamanthaHastingsAuthor, and Facebook @AuthorSamanthaHastings










~*~*~*~*Purchase A Hopeful Proposal ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/5txyMiZ

Kindle-https://a.co/d/c787v2s


Thursday, July 3, 2025

Awakened By Roseanna M. White-Romantasy Review


 Book Synopsis

Where sea and land meet, two worlds clash in a fury of wind and waves.Arden Bleu has always known that her stepsister, Jade, was destined for great things. In a world where beauty follows magic, she has no doubt that their upcoming Awakening ceremony will reveal that gorgeous, kind, compelling Jade is far more than a mere mortal. But when Jade is kidnapped by a mysterious sect of mer on the eve of the newly-returned king’s ball, Arden will do anything to save her sister. Even face down the man she’s always dreaded meeting because of the power he holds over her family, the man to whom her father swore loyalty long before she was born. The Sea King.

Seidon, the Sea King of Daryatla, has grown only more powerful as the centuries have gone by, but lifetime after lifetime have failed to give him what he most yearns a family. He knows that it will take a woman of extraordinary power to match him enough to create a child, and no such woman seems to exist…until he feels her magic calling to his one day in the water. And when Arden Bleu, daughter of his most trusted official, arrives to tell him about her missing stepsister, he knows this Jade, with a new magic so coveted that the mer would risk war with his kingdom to steal her away, may be the one he’s waited centuries for. But how can he and the determined Arden ever hope to find one young woman trapped beneath the waves? Perhaps the Great Golden Sea Hawk who has guarded the sisters all their lives holds the key.

In a world on the brink of war between the mer and the land-dwellers, friendship, faith, and love demand the ultimate sacrifice as both kingdoms seek to unlock the prophesied magic waiting to spring the magic of wind and sky. To the mer, it would mean the freedom to return to the land. To Seidon’s court, it would mean safety from every storm. But how can any human hand wield the wind?

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Whitecrown
  • Genre: Romantasy
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 3, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 350 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8887091198
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****







My Review

Roseanna M. White is one of my favorite writers. I was surprised to discover she had written a Romantasy, Awakened, but this should be her new go-to genre. The world-building was impressive and easy to follow. Her magic system was unlike anything I’ve seen before, with many fresh elements. The "awakening" ceremony happens in late teen years and shows whether someone has magic in their blood.

I especially liked Arden. She was selfless and loyal, staying true to her values no matter what. Even as she gained more power, her integrity never wavered. Arden’s journey taught her a lot about herself and others, making her wiser and more relatable. Seidon, the Sea King of Daryatla, was also an immediate favorite. He fit his role perfectly. Strong yet humble, he carried heavy responsibilities but believed deeply in the Triada — the God or Trinity. Power, to him, came from their guidance. While there is a Christian influence, it’s shown differently here.

This novel offers many exciting elements:

-Merfolk living beneath the sea
-A Romantasy with no spice
-A Sea King searching for his new Queen
-Betrayal, kidnapping, and a coup
-Characters showing true selflessness and honor
-Water and sky magic in battles

I loved this story, full of great adventure, intense danger, sweet love, powerful magic, and well-paced action. It had no cliffhangers, which was a breath of fresh air. The ending epilogue was perfect. I was thrilled to learn there are three more books planned for this series, each set in different kingdoms of this world.


****Meet Author Roseanna M. White ****


Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary.

Being educated at St. John’s College (the Great Books School) taught Roseanna to ask questions, to value conversation, and to never accept the simple answer without exploring it for herself. She and her family make their home in the mountains of West Virginia where she and her husband both grew up. Roseanna is a member of ACFW, a frequent speaker at writers events and small groups of readers, and an unabashed email addict.




~*~*~*~*Purchase Awakened ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/2xoPfPi

Kindle-https://a.co/d/8kDdAq9

Monday, June 30, 2025

Flames of Anarchy By Jerry Borrowman: A Historical Thriller Set in the Heart of Theodore Roosevelt's America-Review




Book Synopsis

In the heart of Theodore Roosevelt’s America, a storm of anarchy threatens the nation, leading to a gripping tale of betrayal, fear, and the birth of the FBI.

Washington D.C, 1908

When a bomb narrowly misses President Roosevelt’s personal railcar at Union Station, New York senator Jason Ellis is convinced it’s an assassination attempt. But no anarchist group claims responsibility. Could it be the work of a lone radical?

Angel Casimer, an American Bolshevik living and working in the shadows, is frustrated by the failure of his bombing. When his boss issues him a new mission—one that could topple the entire American financial system—Casimer wonders if this could be his opportunity to finally get the recognition he feels he deserves.

Former Pinkerton agent Andy Pettit—a childhood friend of Senator Ellis and his wife, Patricia—and some of his associates are brought in to investigate. Despite the detectives’ efforts, they can’t catch the elusive perpetrator behind these escalating attacks. The clock is ticking—where will the next strike be? The Republican National Convention at the Chicago Coliseum looms as a potential target, a possible death trap.

Flames of Anarchy is an exciting, pulse-pounding thriller that dives into a turbulent era in American history, where anarchists and radicals strike terror and fear into the hearts of bourgeois businessmen and politicians, setting the stage for a global conflict.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Shadow Mountain
  • Genre : Historical Thriller
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 3, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 304 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1639933867
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****





My Review

I'm excited to tell you about a really intriguing book called "Flames of Anarchy." This novel is a Historical Political Thriller that takes you back to America in 1908, a truly fascinating period in history.

One of the most interesting aspects of this book is its blend of real historical figures and compelling fictional characters. You'll meet well-known people such as President Theodore Roosevelt and his wife Edith, Prince George and Princess Mary of Wales, and even Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. The main fictional characters are Senator Jason Ellis and his wife Patricia, Pinkerton Detective Andy Pettit, a young and intense anarchist named Angel Casimer, and Big Jim Fitzsimmons, a corrupt union organizer.

The story is an intriguing look at the beginnings of the FBI organization, which was shaped by a worldwide anarchist movement. It’s full of action and switches between several different perspectives. As a huge history fan, I was very impressed by how well-researched this novel is and the attention paid to detail. It also includes realistic depictions of events, such as instances of murder, bombings, and attempted murder, along with some mild language and a few suggestive moments, but it was all handled authentically and not too detailed.

Overall, "Flames of Anarchy" provides a truly fascinating glimpse into history, exploring the intricate power plays behind the anti-capitalist movement of the era. It's filled with significant moments that will keep you completely focused on this historical thriller.

And here's a special tip: Make sure to read the chapter notes at the end of the book! They contain true historical facts related to the story, which I found to be an incredibly enjoyable and informative addition.


****Meet Author Jerry Borrowman****



Jerry Borrowman is a best-selling and award-winning author of historical fiction, historical non-fiction, and co-authored biographies.

Compassionate Soldier won the 2018 Indies Gold (First Place) Award from Foreword Reviews in War and Military. Invisible Heroes of World War II won the 2022 Silver Medal. Compassionate Soldier and Three Against Hitler (with Rudi Wobbe) are George Washington National Award Winners from the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge.

Jerry has given voice to true heroes -- Rudi Wobbe, a German boy who stood up against the Third Reich, Joe Banks in A Distant Prayer who served on 49 combat missions deep into German territory in a B-17 bomber, only to be shot down and taken prisoner of war, and Colonel Bernard Fisher, USAF, a career Air Force pilot who was awarded the Medal of Honor for Valor Above and Beyond the Call of Duty in Vietnam, (also known as the Congressional Medal of Honor).

But for those who enjoy historical fiction, his World War I and World War II series provides insight into the great European wars of the 20th Century in a unique and exciting way.

Here's what Jennie Hansen, reviewer for Meridian magazine has to say: "Borrowman does a superb job of portraying life, including the values and prejudices of the early twentieth century. He brings a realism to that period that is slower and more innocent than teens experience today, yet the reader is led to an awareness of and learns to care about the hopes and dreams of these soon-to-be-men, who live in a time when automobiles are still new, and airplanes are little more than toys..."

Jerry's books are for readers of all ages, men and women. They will inspire you by the great sacrifices made by those who have fought for American freedom.


~*~*~*~*Purchase Flames of Anarchy ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Hardcover-https://a.co/d/3JdjL34

Kindle-https://a.co/d/fTPoyKz

Sunday, June 29, 2025

The Dangers of Daydreaming: A Love Connections Sweet Romcom By Karen Thornell-Review


Book Synopsis


Finn Harrison is nothing like Gilbert Blythe… Right?

Some people collect souvenirs—Lucy Sinclair collects disasters. So, she’s settled with traveling via the pages of her favorite books. But when a coveted promotion hinges on a trip to Prince Edward Island—home of Anne of Green Gables—she’s forced to swap fiction for the real thing.

Finn stopped making plans the day his dad went to prison. Now he’s happy with his predictable life running tours for his grandparents. That is, until his grandpa ends up in the hospital, and his junior high crush ends up in his tour group. Suddenly, Finn’s carefully controlled world threatens to unravel… or maybe fate is offering him a second chance at the life he thought he’d lost.

As picturesque destinations, late-night conversations, and unexpected emergencies throw Lucy and Finn together, Lucy starts to wonder: could Finn be more like Gilbert than she’d always thought? And could reality, for once, live up to fiction?

The problem is… Happily ever after might be waiting on the other side of the ocean.


The Dangers of Daydreaming is a sweet romantic comedy with all of the swoon and none of the spice.

Book Details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0FDFDXTGK
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published
  • Genre: Sweert Romcom
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 13, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 291 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8287885267
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and 

  • ideas expressed are my own.****




My Review

Can a teenage crush become something more real? Readers will see this created in Karen Thornell's new romcom, The Dangers of Daydreaming. This sweet love story will appeal to fans of Anne of Green Gables. It’s not a retelling, but the main character, Lucy, has loved the book most of her life. It influences much of her world, especially since she works as a travel agent planning a literary tour in a contest. Naturally, she picks Prince Edward Island as her destination. When she arrives, fate steps in, and her teenage rival, Finn Harrison, shows up offering to help her out of a bad situation.

Seeing Lucy and Finn meet again after ten years is a lot of fun. They share playful teasing and witty banter. But there are serious moments too — Lucy’s mom’s wedding plans are driving her crazy, and Finn’s grandparents’ issues with their B&B and bad health add twists and turns to the story. Through all this, there's a lovely thread of hope mixed with a little bit of trepidation, making the story feel realistic and genuine.

"The Dangers of Daydreaming" is a charming summer romance. It's filled with moments that will make you smile and features two characters who genuinely bring out the best in each other. If you're looking for a heartwarming and enjoyable read, this book will make a perfect choice.



****Meet Author Karen Thornell****


Karen Thornell grew up reading when she should have been sleeping, but it wasn't until 2019 that she started writing. Tired of ending books and saying 'goodbye' to beloved characters, she wondered what it would be like to have her own characters that lived in her head always. It was probably a mark of sleep deprivation that she wanted people living in her head, but the idea was planted regardless.

Karen lives in Utah with her husband and kids. When not writing contemporary or regency romance, she spends her free time doing endless loads of laundry, playing board games, and, yes, talking to those characters in her head.

You can connect with Karen on Instagram, Facebook, or on her site at www.karenthornell.com



~*~*~*~*Purchase "The Dangers of Daydreaming" ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/gS0BWqF

Kindle-https://a.co/d/hjyQF8w

Friday, June 27, 2025

When Stars Light The Sky: The Women of Midtown Book#2 By Elizabeth Camden-Historical Christian Romance Review


 


Book Synopsis

Inga Klein's carefree life in New York takes a dramatic turn when she sails for Berlin, Germany, to serve as the secretary for America's ambassador. Amid the glamour of life at the embassy, she continually finds herself at odds with the straitlaced and imposing Benedict Kincaid, the diplomatic chief of staff who harbors deep misgivings toward the German-born Inga.

As Europe hurtles toward World War I, Benedict's determination to keep America out of the conflict adds to the already tense atmosphere. Despite their relentless sparring, Inga and Benedict succeed in keeping the embassy afloat through one crisis after another. But when they run out of diplomatic options, a marriage of convenience between them may be Inga's only hope of escape from the impending war.

In this entrancing Gilded Age romance, Inga and Benedict will be swept into a dangerous world on the brink of war, where two hearts must navigate shadows of uncertainty when stars light the sky.

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bethany House Pub
  • Genre: Christian Historical Romance Fiction
  • Series: The Women of Midtown Book#2 
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 21, 2025
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 352 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0764241729
  • ****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****




My Review

This book is the second in The Women of Midtown series. I loved the first book, While the City Sleeps, and now feel the same way about the second, When Stars Light The Sky. The story is set in Germany at the American Embassy just before World War I begins. I haven't read many books about this period because many historical fiction books focus on World War II instead.

Inga Klein is a character I really connected with. She came to the US as a child from Germany. I never found anything about her that I disliked. She’s kind, friendly, and always looking for the good in others. Inga goes back to Germany as the secretary for America’s ambassador, James Gerard. While there, she meets someone I found extremely unlikable. Benedict Kincaid is the stern diplomatic chief of staff. From their first meeting, he’s rude to Inga and grumpy with everyone, especially her. Despite her efforts to get along, Benedict has good reasons for keeping his distance from Inga and others, but things are not revealed right away. 

As tensions grow and war gets closer, Inga faces a difficult situation that might stop her from leaving Germany. Surprisingly, Benedict ends up helping her, and that’s when we start seeing changes in him. I found myself more interested in the story once Inga and Benedict grew closer. This is when I also began liking Benedict more as the story progressed. This was huge character growth, and I enjoyed every minute. 

When Stars Light The Sky offers a unique look at the German and American governments before the war. Also shown is how a marriage of convenience can turn into something real. This was so enjoyable to see. Many moments, especially near the end, are filled with intrigue and keep readers very anxious. 


I really enjoyed this clean, historical romance and loved learning so many new aspects of history I haven't looked into before. Author Elizabeth Camden is certainly an author who has become a must-read for me.

****Meet Author Elizabeth Camden****

Elizabeth Camden is best known for her historical novels set in Gilded Age America featuring clever heroines and richly layered storylines. Before she was a writer, she was an academic librarian at some of the largest and smallest libraries in America, but her favorite is the continually growing library in her own home. Her novels have won the RITA and Christy Award, and she lives in Florida with her husband who graciously tolerates her intimidating stockpile of books.
Learn more about her HERE: https://elizabethcamden.com/




~*~*~*~*Purchase When Stars Light The Sky ~*~*~*~*

HERE:

Paperback-https://a.co/d/fbT8Nio

Kindle-https://a.co/d/dhBgogV