About the Book Reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast, a recluse and a young woman discover that the scars of life are no match against an act of love. Iowa, 1903. All of Monticello believes Otis Taylor has been away fostering his musical genius. But the truth is that his father exiled him long ago, rejecting Otis's appearance and the scars that came with it. Now that he is the last living Taylor, Otis has covertly returned to settle his family's affairs and rid himself of his past for good. However, he soon discovers that he may not have been the only discarded Taylor and begins a tireless search for his missing niece. At twenty-three years old, Sadie West left her family farm and found employment at the Hoag feather duster factory. It isn't a romantic job, but she's hardly had a glimmer of romance since her beau went off to college, leaving her with no promise of a future together. Desperate to save money and help her family make ends meet, she trespasses and finds shelter in an abandoned building--and is thrown in the path of the town's mysterious bachelor. Otis's wounds are deep, but as Sadie's friendship with him grows, she begins to fall for the man beneath the mask. The mystery of his long-lost niece, however, is more complex than either could have imagined, and Sadie may be the key to Otis Taylor finally finding his way home. About the Author Rachel Fordham is the author of Where the Road Bends, A Lady in Attendance, A Life Once Dreamed, The Hope of Azure Springs, and Yours Truly, Thomas. Fans expect stories with heart and she delivers, diving deep into the human experience and tugging at reader emotions. She loves connecting with people, traveling to new places, and daydreaming about future projects that will have sigh-worthy endings and memorable characters. She is a busy mom, raising both biological and foster children (a cause she feels passionate about). She lives with her husband and children on an island in the state of Washington. ReviewFrom the very beginning this story is such a delight to read. And Fordham does an excellent job of weaving in a charming Beauty and the Beast retelling in her charming and heart-warming story. Readers will immediately fall in love with the characters, especially Otis and Sadie. Readers will enjoy watching their budding friendship develop into love. This is a strong story about overcoming childhood drama and family devotion that will capture and pull at the heart strings of readers. Fordham has crafted another beautiful story, and readers will thoroughly enjoy this friends-to-more story with Beauty and the Beast vibes. A highly recommended tale from an excellent author! Genre: historical, romance Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publication date: August 13, 2024 Number of pages: 336 Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.  About the Book After her annulment is finalized, Enya Shanahan finds herself caught in a web of scandal and obligation while carrying a secret that threatens to shatter her family's reputation. Determined to find a suitable marriage for Enya, her father turns to a wily matchmaker to save them from their circumstances. Sullivan O'Brien, a steamboat captain committed to aiding enslaved people on their path to freedom, is faced with an ultimatum from his father. Forced to marry or lose his livelihood, a marriage of convenience seems to be the only solution. As he and Enya face the trials of their pasts and a city consumed by fire, they must confront their deepest fears and learn to trust in love, even when darkness threatens to engulf them. Bestselling author Jody Hedlund returns to 1800s St. Louis in this dramatic and stirring tale of resilience and love against all odds. About the Author Jody Hedlund (JodyHedlund.com) is the bestselling author of more than fifty novels and is the winner of numerous awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle. ReviewA fresh start isn’t always easy to come by. But with the help of the Matchmaker, Enya Shanahan and Sullivan O’Brien, both in dire circumstances, agree to an arranged marriage of convenience. Hedlund dives deep into the emotions of both of these characters as they overcome their past and learn to trust and eventually fall in love. A beautifully written, heart-rending story, that readers will fall in love with at the turn of the very first page. Series: A Shanahan Match Genre: historical, romance Publisher: Bethany House Publication date: August 6, 2024 Number of pages: 352 Books in the series: 1-Calling on the Matchmaker 2-Saved by the Matchmaker Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.  |