reecaspieces

Overview

Well done to Hope C. Tarr for a magical journey, so gruelling, so full of optimistic belief, in the hope of a better future. I loved Rose and how she fought for her own strength within herself.’ Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, Sunday Times bestselling author

Aran Islands 1898.

Eighteen-year-old Rose O’Neill leaves her beloved Ireland and boards a steamer bound for New York City. She’s starting a new life with Adam, the American soldier who’s sworn to marry her.

But when she arrives at New York Harbour Rose finds herself abandoned, pregnant and alone.

Scared and homeless, she takes a job at one of New York’s luxury hotels, and gradually begins to see a future for herself and her unborn child.

But when a deadly fire rips through the hotel, in one shocking moment Rose loses all she has built.

Rose’s luck finally begins to change when she meets fireman Joe Kavanaugh, a man determined to win her heart.

Rose and Joe build a family and a business that takes them from the struggling Lower East side, to the glamour of New York’s finest department store. If only Rose can let go of her past and the love she lost.

Rose has come from nothing and built an empire, but the outbreak of the Great War in Europe threatens to topple the dynasty which she has sacrificed so much to build.

Can she find her way back to happiness, and the future she set out to find a quarter of a century before . . .?

Sweeping from Ireland to New York at the turn of the century. From the heartache of the Great War, to the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, discover one woman’s journey from heartbreak to happiness in this captivating historical saga.

Perfect for fans of Fiona Valpy, Dilly Court, Sarah Ferguson Duchess of York, Kristen Hannah, Rosie Goodwin, Heather Webb, Rosie Hendry, Katie Flynn, and Colleen McCullough.

Review

Rose’s brother has been killed in the Spanish-American war. When his best friend, Adam, shows up at her family’s saloon in Ireland, sparks fly immediately. Sadly, Adam is called home because his father is ill and Rose and Adam lose touch. Rose takes off in search of Adam after she discovers she is pregnant. Things do not go as she had hoped and Rose finds herself on her own!

This is really close to a 5 star read for me. The only reason I decided on 4 stars is basically originality. It is the same story I have read before…with a few different twists. The twists are what make this book so well done! Oh! and the characters! I love Rose! And I even loved her husband Joe, even if he is a stubborn butt!

The love triangle between Rose, Joe and Adam, as I have said before, is not unique. But the drama that occurs between the characters and the way their lives shift and change really keep the reader turning the pages.

Need a wonderful historical fiction love story…THIS IS IT ! Grab your copy today!

I received this novel from the author for a honest review.

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Overview

Ingeniously plotted, irresistibly readable, brimming with inside information about the high-stakes art world of theft, forgery, and murder…Also included are brilliantly rendered drawings by the author, who is as accomplished an artist as he is a writer of suspense thrillers.” —Joyce Carol Oates

From the author of the much-praised The Last Mona Lisacomes another thrilling story of masterpieces, masterminds, and mystery. 

For years, there have been whispers that, before his death, Van Gogh completed a final self-portrait. Curators and art historians have savored this rumor, hoping it could illuminate some of the troubled artist’s many secrets, but even they have to concede that the missing painting is likely lost forever.

But when Luke Perrone, artist and great-grandson of the man who stole the Mona Lisa, and Alexis Verde, daughter of a notorious art thief, discover what may be the missing portrait, they are drawn into a most epic art puzzles. When only days later the painting disappears again, they are reunited with INTERPOL agent John Washington Smith in a dangerous and deadly search that will not only expose secrets of the artist’s last days but draws them into one of history’s darkest eras.

Beneath the paint and canvas, beneath the beauty and the legend, the artwork has become linked with something evil, something that continues to flourish on the dark web and on the shadiest corridors of the underground art world.

Alternating between Luke Perrone’s perilous hunt for the painting, and a history of stolen art and stolen lives, The Lost Van Gogh is an intricately layered historical thriller perfect for fans of The Last Mona Lisa and The Night Portrait.

Review

Luke and Alex may have discovered a lost painting by Van Gogh. But, before they can get it authenticated, the painting is stolen. They contact an acquaintance, Interpol Agent, John Washington. And it is not long that John discovers there is more to this than he ever imagined.

This is very well researched with quite a bit of enjoyable history. I mean, who doesn’t love to read about Van Gogh! And the mystery surrounding the painting…is it real? Is it fake? This is what kept the story moving for me!

I have only read one other novel by this author, The Last Mona Lisa. I enjoyed that book quite a bit more than this one. This story just seems to be all over the place. It is a bit discombobulated and unorganized. Now, as I always say…read this for yourself to form your own opinion.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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Overview

Wendy Kyle took secrets to her grave—now, Clare Carlson is digging them up

New York City has no shortage of crime, making for a busy schedule for TV newswoman Clare Carlson. But not all crimes are created equal, and when an explosive planted in a car detonates and kills a woman, Clare knows it’ll be a huge story for her.

But it’s not only about the story—Clare also wants justice for the victim, Wendy Kyle. Wendy had sparked controversy as an NYPD officer, ultimately getting kicked off the force after making sexual harassment allegations and getting into a physical altercation with her boss. Then, she started a private investigations business, catering to women who suspected their husbands of cheating. Undoubtedly, Wendy had angered many people with her work, so the list of her suspected murderers is seemingly endless.

Despite the daunting investigation, Clare dives in headfirst. As she digs deeper, she attracts the attention of many rich and powerful people who will stop at nothing to keep her from breaking the truth about the death of Wendy Kyle—and exposing their personal secrets that Wendy took to her grave.

Review

Wendy Kyle has been killed when a bomb is planted in her car. This story ends up in Clare Carlson’s lap. And it is not cut and dried as it appears. Clare just keeps digging and digging because she knows something is not right! Love a reporter’s intuition!

This is a story that is a bit complex and intricate and I enjoyed it. I loved the politics and who did what to whom! And the ending….I SO did not see that coming!

I have not read any books in this series and this one is stand alone. But, I do want to go back and pick these up. I enjoyed Clare. She has some gumption and she is not afraid to get in the deep end!

Need a good who done it…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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Overview

In present-day Greece, deep in an ancient forest, lives a family: Irini, a musician, who teaches children to read and play music; her husband, Tasso, who paints pictures of the forest, his greatest muse; and Chara, their young daughter, whose name means joy. On the fateful day that will forever alter the trajectory of their lives, flames chase fleeing birds across the sky. The wildfire that will consume their home, and their lives as they know it, races toward them.

Months later, as the village tries to rebuild, Irini stumbles upon the man who started the fire, a land speculator who had intended only a small, controlled burn to clear forestland to build on but instead ignited a catastrophe. He is dying, although the cause is unclear, and in her anger at all he took from them, Irini makes a split-second decision that will haunt her.

As the local police investigate the suspicious death, Tasso mourns his father, who has not been seen since before the fire. Tasso’s hands were burnt in the flames, leaving him unable to paint, and he struggles to cope with the overwhelming loss of his artistic voice and his beloved forest. Only his young daughter, who wants to repair the damage that’s been done, gives him hope for the future.

Gorgeously written, sweeping in scope and intimate in tone, The Book of Fire is a masterful work about the search for meaning in the wake of tragedy, as well as the universal ties that bind people together, and to the land that they call home.

Review

Irini, her husband, Tasso and their daughter, Chara live in small village in Greece. One afternoon a fire demolishes their home and their life as they know it. Their neighbor is accused of starting the fire that destroyed acres of land and many lives. One day not long after the fire, Irini comes across this neighbor near death. She makes a fateful decision that she will have to live with for the rest of her life.

Irini is such a strong woman and she is trying to hold it all together after a terrible disaster that nearly destroyed everything. My heart went out to Irini as she experienced heartbreak, anger, despair and yes…love as well.

Even though I did not enjoy this book as much as The Beekeeper of Aleppo, I was still captivated and emotional during this tale. This author can create some unique situations which will have you questioning what you would do in this happened in your world.

Need a beautifully written story about loss and strength…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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Overview

Count on Lori Foster for sexy, edgy romance.” —Jayne Ann Krentz, New York Times bestselling author

He had it all planned…until she showed up.

Jedidiah Stephens came to the Colorado Rockies for one reason: to uncover the truth behind the fire that killed her family. She’s been chasing down clues, and everything has led her to an isolated campground. Her plan is to get a job there so she can investigate who comes and goes. Getting involved with her boss, Memphis Osborn, the ruggedly handsome groundskeeper, is definitely not part of the plan.

When Jedidiah arrives on the scene, Memphis just knows she’s up to something. He can see the desperation in her eyes and warily agrees to hire her. As they work side by side, Diah triggers his deepest protective instincts—and the chemistry between them ignites.

But the more Diah digs into her family’s past, the more secrets she unravels…and the more afraid she becomes. She lost everything once before. She’ll never forgive herself if now she loses Memphis, too.

Osborn Brothers

Book 1: The Dangerous One
Book 2: The Fearless One

Review

Jedidiah has come to the Colorado Rockies in search of answers. She wants the truth behind the fire that killed her family. She gets a job at the new campground owned by Memphis Osborn and sparks fly! But the more she investigates her family’s deaths, the more dangerous it becomes for Jedidiah and she just might lose Memphis in the process.

Jedidiah is a fabulous character. And I swear, I laughed out loud when she met Memphis! He is naked in the shower so you can just imagine how well this goes! And their chemistry just keeps getting better and better. And Memphis is very protective and you just can’t help but love this couple.

I have not read a Lori Foster book in FOREVER! And no idea why?? She is a solid writer with real characters and real situations. This book checks all those boxes. I did feel it was a bit long and could have been shortened a little bit.

Need an all around good romance…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today n

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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TWO DEAD WIVES

Author: Adele Parks

ISBN: 9780778333579

Publication Date: December 26, 2023

Publisher: MIRA

18.99 US | 23.99 CAN

Book Summary:

Lost. Missing. Murdered? How do you find a woman who didn’t exist?

It’s a case that has gripped a nation: A woman with a shocking secret is missing, presumed dead. And her two husbands are suspects in her murder.

DCI Clements knows the dark side of human nature and that love can make people do treacherous things. You can’t presume anything when it comes to crimes of the heart. Until a body is found, this scandalous and sad case remains wide open.

Stacie Jones lives a quiet life in a small village, nursed by her father as she recovers from illness, and shielded from any news of the outside world. But their reclusive life is about to be shattered.

How are these families linked, and can any of them ever rebuild their lives in the wake of tragedy?

Review

Kylie Gillingham has gone missing and her secret has been exposed. Kylie is married to two different husbands. To one husband she is a trophy wife and to the other she is a devoted stepmother. Then there is Stacie Jones. Stacie has no memory at all. It has been wiped out from surgery. But soon her reclusive life will be destroyed.

This story is a bit slow in places, especially towards the end. So in other words, it seems too long and a bit predictable. I did enjoy the characters. But it can be a bit confusing in places in that it is told from different perspectives.

I have not read the first book in this series. I might have liked this one more if I had.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

Author Bio:

Adele Parks was born in North Yorkshire. She is the author of twenty-one bestselling novels. Over four million UK copies of her work have been sold, and her books have been translated into thirty-one different languages. Adele’s recent Sunday Times number one bestsellers Lies, Lies, Lies and Just My Luck were short-listed for the British Book Awards and have been optioned for development for TV. She is an ambassador of the National Literacy Trust and The Reading Agency, two charities that promote literacy in the UK. She is a judge for the Costa Book Awards. Adele has lived in Botswana, Italy and London and is now settled in Guildford, Surrey. In 2022 she was awarded an MBE for services to literature.

Social Links:

Author Website: https://www.adeleparks.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAdeleParks 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/adeleparks 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adele_parks/ 

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/45427.Adele_Parks

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THE WEEKEND RETREAT

Author: Tara Laskowski

ISBN: 9781525811456

Publication Date: December 26, 2023

Publisher: Graydon House

18.99 US | 23.99 CAN

Book Summary:

Every year, the illustrious Van Ness siblings, heirs to a copper fortune, gather at their lush winery estate for a joint birthday celebration. It’s a tradition they’ve followed nearly all their lives, and now they are back with their significant others for a much-needed weekend of rest and relaxation, away from the public spotlight.

With lavish comforts, gorgeous scenery, and indulgent drinking, the trip should be the perfect escape. But it soon becomes clear that even a remote idyllic getaway can’t keep out the problems simmering in each of their lives. As old tensions are reignited, the three couples are pushed to the edge. Will their secrets destroy them, or will they destroy each other first? And who’s been watching them from beyond the vineyard gates?

When a torrential rainstorm hits, plunging them into darkness, the answers prove all too deadly…

Review

The Van Ness siblings are coming together at their estate in the luscious wine country. It is a birthday celebration for the twins of the Van Ness clan. But it soon becomes clear, there is more going on than a big party. And it may include murder!

Let me just say, I did not like a single character in this book. And usually that means I will DNF it. But there was something about this book that kept me reading. The tensions, the secrets, the lies….all come together to make a pretty, dad-blame good read. And the ending…well you need to read this to find out!

Need a good family drama with a kick…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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Author Bio:

TARA LASKOWSKI is the author of The Mother Next Door and One Night Gone, which won an Agatha Award, Macavity Award, and Anthony Award, and was a finalist for the Mary Higgins Clark Award, Left Coast Crime Award, Strand Critics’ Award, and Library of Virginia Literary Award. She is also the author of two short story collections, Modern Manners for Your Inner Demons and Bystanders, has published stories in Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine and Mid-American Review, among others, and is the former editor of SmokeLong Quarterly. Tara earned a BA in English from Susquehanna University and an MFA from George Mason University and currently lives in Virginia. Find her on Twitter and Instagram, @TaraLWrites.

Social Links:

Author website: https://taralaskowski.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TaraLWrites/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tara.laskowski.9