A CHRISTMAS HOPE FOR REGINA by Author Patricia PacJac Carroll *Mail-Order Brides First Christmas Series*

Welcome to Romance Sweet Reads! Today, we’re featuring the fourth book in the exciting new series ~ Mail-Order Brides’ First Christmas ~ twenty-one wonderful happily-ever-afters, spread out over the next two-and-a-half months for your reading enjoyment!

Today’s featured story is A Christmas Hope for Regina by author Patricia PacJac Carroll.

Cover by Virginia McKevitt of Black Widow Books.

Secrets and scars gave him a stony heart.
All she has left is hope, and Christmas is on the way.

Regina Collins had answered the letter and left her home in Missouri to make her way to the mountains of Colorado. That was in April. She’d come full of hope with the expectation of starting a new life. But her life in Colorado didn’t look much different than the one she’d left.

Sam Morgan needed a wife to help care for his five-year-old son. He married Regina just like he’d said he would, but if Regina thought he’d be the loving husband, she was mistaken. He’d provide for her, give her children, and protect her. But he wasn’t giving her his heart.

Get A Christmas Hope for Regina on Kindle Unlimited

Regina took comfort that all the animals were sheltered. After another loud bang of thunder, the door to their room opened, and Cody came in.

“I’m scared.” He was rubbing his eyes.

She lifted the covers. “Come over here.”

The little boy scooted between the covers and as close to her as he could. “I’m afraid of storms.”

“They can sound ferocious, can’t they?” She hugged him to her. “I was afraid when I was little. Then my mother sat with me, and we watched one. On the darkest of nights, lightning stabbed the ground, even hit a tree, exploding it right before our eyes. The thunder was as loud as dynamite.”

He stared at her with big eyes. “Weren’t you scared?”

“Yes. My mother explained it was just nature's way of sending rain and knocking down dead limbs and weak trees. But thunderstorms are only for a time as all storms in life are just for an appointed season, and then they move on.”

She tucked the covers around him. “So, I watched the lightning, listened the to loud bangs of thunder and gusts of wind, and after a while, sure enough, it stopped. The next morning the air was clean, the ground watered, and the storm but a memory.” She kissed the top of his head. “So watch the storm and remember that it will go away.”

Soon, Cody was breathing peacefully.

Regina smiled at the memory of her mother’s tender words and care. She was right. Whatever storms came her way would only last for a time. Regina had been desperate, and then she’d found the mail-order bride ad.

Now, she was married to a good man. She did believe that. Sam just needed some time to still the storm that raged inside of him. She knew the day would come when that storm inside her husband would leave. Then his heart would open to her, and she would be there to love him and receive his love.

Patricia PacJac Carroll~ I am a writer, Christian first, and blessed beyond my imagination. I live in the Dallas-Ft Worth area of Texas with my wonderful treasure of a husband, my spoiled dog, Jacs, and my awesome son, Josh. Did I say I was blessed? The PacJac is from my initials and my husbands. I wouldn't be able to write if it weren't for him. I love adventure and the open road. The stories of the western era have always been a favorite of mine. I enjoy writing, and my goal is to write stories readers will enjoy.

Patricia's Website ~ Amazon Author Page ~ Facebook ~ Newsletter Sign Up

Just in time for the holiday season, wonderfully romantic books from some of your favorite authors. A whole stocking full of heartfelt happily-ever-afters!

You can find all twenty-one books listed on the Amazon Series Page

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Thank you so much for joining us today. We invite you to come back every release day to get a sneak peak at the individual books, as well as the occasional exclusive excerpt available only here at Romance Sweet Reads.

Blessings,
Nancy

WINDOW OVER THE DESK by Author Liz Flaherty **Giveaway**

Welcome to Romance Sweet Reads. Today my guest is good friend and fellow author, Liz Flaherty. Liz is sharing her new release, Window Over the Desk, with us today. A follow up to her previously published, Window Over the Sink, it’s sure to be a great hit!

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“It’s about finding the good and enjoying it until you have to let it go. And then finding the good again.” - Liz Flaherty, Window Over the Desk

Being the certain age I keep talking about has taught me the truth of what I said in that quote. When my first book was published in 1999, I assumed the next one would follow right along. And the next, and the…well, you get the picture. However, the second one took four years, and I think the third one took four more.

Sometimes “finding the good” takes longer than you expect because you don’t know where to look. While my romance novels don’t always sell and come out when I’d like them to, my Window over the Sink essays have been a constant. Releasing them in book form have given me a new and—for me—exciting way to keep finding the good.

In 2020, I released the first collection of Window Over the Sink columns. It was for my family, really, and to give my own ego a boost. (Any writer who says she doesn’t need that now and then is lying, by the way.)

It was so much fun.

Which is why I decided to open the Window Over the Desk. My view out this particular window is a favorite—even today, when I’m drying…things…on the clothesline. Also today, the hay bales in the field that have given me pleasure for several weeks have been gathered and stored for the long winter.

I hope the essays in this book give you some pleasant reading time over that winter. I hope they make you remember things, laugh sometimes, and refill your cup and sit down and read “just one more.”

As I mention way more often than is necessary, I’m kind of old. The years have dimmed some reflections through the window, brightened others, and changed a whole bunch of them. What a trip it’s been.

Thanks—again—for joining me on the journey.

Find Window Over the Desk at Amazon and Other E-Book Retailers

The Woman in the Mirror

Do you ever feel as if you lost yourself somewhere along the way? If you’ve had a bad time or an extraordinarily good one, do you ever look in the mirror and wonder exactly who’s looking back at you? Because you’ve changed, and you’re not sure what to do with the person who’s there.

I’m feeling thoughty here—can you tell? I’m always, always whining about how much I hate change, yet when I look back—over bad times and extraordinarily good ones, it’s an ongoing cycle, isn’t it? It’s what keeps life new and interesting. And, yeah, sometimes awful.

But if it weren’t for change, and my kicking-and-screaming caving to it, I would:

Never have changed jobs and I’d have been stuck with working one I hated.

Never have married the man I did because he wasn’t the first person I loved.

I’d never have had a third child.

I’d have given up the first time a publisher said Nope.

Or maybe the second.

For sure by the twenty-third.

I’d have kept my hair short.

And let it go gray.

I’d still be writing longhand on lined paper and thinking I wasn’t good enough.

For anything,

So, no, I don’t always know the woman in the mirror, or, for that matter, the man I’m married to. I don’t always like either of us. There are days when I do feel like I’ve lost the person I was. Because I have. Because every re-invention in every time of life is change, it’s often hard, and it’s always necessary. I think maybe I like it.

Retired from the post office, Liz Flaherty spends non-writing time sewing, quilting, and wanting to travel. The author of 20-some books and her husband Duane share an old farmhouse in North Central Indiana that they talk about leaving. However, that would require clearing baseball trophies from the attic and dusting the pictures of the Magnificent Seven, their grandchildren, so they’ll probably stay where they are.

Liz's Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ Pinterest

Giveaway: Liz Flaherty is giving away a Christmas ornament and a backlist paperback to a commenter who shares their favorite Christmas movie with us.

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It's been my pleasure sharing Liz's great new book with your today. Please come back again on Friday when we'll continue our feature on another great series of books.

Nancy

A CHRISTMAS CARD FOR KRISTA by Author Linda Baten Johnson **MAIL-ORDER BRIDES' FIRST CHRISTMAS**

 

Welcome to Romance Sweet Reads! Today, we’re featuring the third book in the exciting new series ~ Mail-Order Brides’ First Christmas ~ twenty-one wonderful happily-ever-afters, spread out over the next two-and-a-half months for your reading enjoyment!

Today’s featured story is A Christmas Card for Krista by author Linda Baten Johnson.

Cover by Virginia McKevitt of Black Widow Books.

When Krista Franklin boards a stagecoach in St. Joseph, Missouri, she has no idea her whole life will change in the next two weeks. She and her sister expect to marry brothers in Colorado, both having signed mail-order-bride contracts, but Krista finds herself falling in love with one of their fellow travelers. If she follows the desires of her heart, the action could cause a permanent split from her only remaining relative.

Chance Griffin, who plans to start a lumbering business in northern California, believes Krista is his made-to-order bride and sends money to release her from her mail-order contract. After their hasty marriage, they head west where surprising conditions and characters thwart their dream of a prosperous business.
Away from friends and family, the young couple must rely on each other and their faith to find the right path for their lives in this rugged land where people’s actions don’t always follow traditional conventions.

Get A Christmas Card for Krista on Kindle Unlimited

The banker was only slightly taller than Krista, but what he lacked in height, he made up for in width. His rotund body balanced on short spindly legs mandated a waddling style walk. His square face with a prominent nose contrasted with his oval body. “Didn’t know you were a married man, Mr. Griffin.”

"We've recently wed, and I didn't want to leave her alone." Chance allowed Krista to sit in the only other chair in the banker's office while he remained standing.

“Unusual to discuss financial information with the ladies. They have no head for figures, do they?” Mr. Nagle placed a heavy ledger on his desk.

"That's not the case with my wife. Mr. Nagle, if she ever needs your assistance, I hope you'll extend to her the same courtesy you would to me." Chance squeezed her shoulder.

Nagle's face showed his disapproval when vertical creases formed between his eyebrows, as well as horizontal rows under his receding hairline. "I'll be happy to advise her on what action you should take."

Chance shook his head. “What I want is for her to have equal authority on the account. If I’m in another town or suffering from a serious illness, I want her to be able to draw funds from the bank.”

This announcement brought the banker to his feet. "Mr. Griffin, It's not wise, not wise at all. The fairer sex knows nothing about weighty financial matters.”

Linda Baten Johnson grew up in White Deer, Texas, where she won blue ribbons for storytelling. She still loves spinning tales. A tornado destroyed the town when Linda lived there, and watching faith-based actions in rebuilding lives and homes after the tragedy influences her writing. Her historical fiction books for young readers and her squeaky-clean romances are available in print, e-book, and on audio.

Linda's Website ~ Amazon Author Page

Just in time for the holiday season, wonderfully romantic books from some of your favorite authors. A whole stocking full of heartfelt happily-ever-afters!

You can find all twenty-one books listed on the Amazon Series Page

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Thank you so much for joining us today. We invite you to come back every release day to get a sneak peak at the individual books, as well as the occasional exclusive excerpt available only here at Romance Sweet Reads.

Blessings,
Nancy

A CHRISTMAS CHILD FOR CALLIE by Author Elissa Strati **Mail-Order Brides' First Christmas Series**

Welcome to Romance Sweet Reads! Today, we’re featuring the second book in the exciting new series ~ Mail-Order Brides’ First Christmas ~ twenty-one wonderful happily-ever-afters, spread out over the next two-and-a-half months for your reading enjoyment!

Today’s featured story is A Christmas Child for Callie by author Elissa Strati.

Cover by Virginia McKevitt of Black Widow Books.

A childhood injury left Calliope Perkins with a limp and, the doctor told her, the inability to have children. But Callie yearns to be a mother.

Jacob Becker had three children but their mother died giving birth to the fourth—the son he had always wanted. No one can replace his wife, but the children need a mother.

Can the magic of Christmas heal two broken hearts?

Get A Christmas Child for Callie on Kindle Unlimited

You can sneak a peek at Callie's story HERE!

I am an Army brat who has traveled extensively both at home (U.S.) and abroad (much of the world but not as much as I'd like!), seeing places, learning history, and, most importantly, meeting people. With all its travails, life is wonderful, God is good, and I am a Pollyanna. My clean, sweet romances, largely historical, western fiction, cross other genres with abandon as they spice and flavor my work. I am most easily reached, under my own name, on Facebook. (Truly, there is only one!) Hope to hear from you

Amazon Author Page ~ Facebook

Just in time for the holiday season, wonderfully romantic books from some of your favorite authors. A whole stocking full of heartfelt happily-ever-afters!

You can find all twenty-one books listed on the Amazon Series Page

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Thank you so much for joining us today. We invite you to come back every release day to get a sneak peak at the individual books, as well as the occasional exclusive excerpt available only here at Romance Sweet Reads.

Blessings,
Nancy

A CHRISTMAS COAT FOR ABIGAIL by Author Angela Lain (Book #1 - Mail-Order Brides' First Christmas Series)

Welcome to Romance Sweet Reads! Today, we’re featuring the first book in the exciting new series ~ Mail-Order Brides’ First Christmas ~ twenty-one wonderful happily-ever-afters, spread out over the next two-and-a-half months for your reading enjoyment!

Today’s featured story is  for A Christmas Coat for Abigail by author Angela Lain.

Cover by Virginia McKevitt of Black Widow Books.

Miss Abigail Baraquin became a Mail-Order Bride to escape the threat of life in a bordello. After such a delightful exchange of letters, she never expected her prospective husband to be a drunken liar, nor did she expect a total stranger to step in and marry her.

Mr. David Ferguson was the black sheep of the family, prone to making rash decisions. He came home to Jessop Creek, Wyoming to reveal to his family how he had turned his life around. On arrival, he rescued a beautiful young woman from a terrible mistake, because that was what a good man should do. Marrying her was a spur of the moment decision. He gave little thought as to what it would mean for a future together.

The die had been cast, as the weather closed in and Christmas approached, they had to make this work, somehow.

Get A Christmas Coat for Abigail on Kindle Unlimited

David regarded his new wife, walking quietly beside him. Until she spoke those words Miss Abigail Marie Baraquin, or rather Mrs. Abigail Ferguson, had seemed so stunned by all the events that she really hadn’t said much at all, except ‘I do’!

“I could not let a lady be treated in such a manner.”

“But you didn’t need to marry me.”

“You agreed, so I did, that is all there is to say.” David was still wondering at himself. Getting married was something he’d never considered since Charis had chosen his brother Ben. But here he was, a married man.

“Oh. Oh no,”

“What is the matter?”

“My earring, it’s gone.” A tear trickled down her cheek and she dashed it away.

“Was it valuable?” David frowned at the other offending earring, he wouldn’t know a valuable piece of jewelry if he saw it, but that particular bauble looked too large to be anything more than glass.

“Only to me,” she admitted. “They were my mother’s, a little gift to remember her. We were not a family who could afford expensive trinkets, but I loved these because they were hers.” She touched the remaining earring sadly.

“Then we will find it.” He took her arm and led her back along the road. “I suspect it is where you fell.”

 

My name is Angela and I live in the countryside in Norfolk, UK, with my husband (an engineer) and my horse. I have two children and three grandchildren, son has a daughter and daughter has twins. I help my daughter with her horses and her whippets (and the twins!) I tend both house and garden, rather reluctantly, and I write and read.

For years I had woven stories in my head, I put the first one on paper while I sat through several endless nights when my young daughter was ill. The bug bit and I slaved long over a typewriter to have a single romance novel accepted and published back in 1990. Then I gave up, too much family life and a business to run. Finally I am less busy, and the availability of computers and self-publishing made it possible to do my own thing.

I write both historical and contemporary romance. I love historical; I enjoy the research, and I write stories set both in America and England. I write sweet stories in the Multi-author series, and others which are (in the words of one of my lovely reviewers) a little bit naughty. Here I don’t always leave at the bedroom door. In those stories, they might get it on, but sex is part of the characters’ lives, not the main purpose.

I like a bit of adventure, excitement and danger. My characters have been involved on the Oregon Trail, in Indian raids in the west, and in the Crimean war. They have been variously stranded in snow storms, caught in tornadoes, kidnapped by ruffians and trapped in cellars. Generally the heroes are tough and noble, and the heroines are feisty and independent. One thing they always get is their happy ending. I don’t like a book without a happy ending, so I really cannot write one.

Amazon Author Page ~ Facebook

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Just in time for the holiday season, wonderfully romantic books from some of your favorite authors. A whole stocking full of heartfelt happily-ever-afters!

You can find all twenty-one books listed on the Mail-Order Brides' Series Page

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Thank you so much for joining us today for the series overview. We invite you to come back every release day to get a sneak peak at the individual books, including exclusive excerpts available only here at Romance Sweet Reads.

Blessings,
Nancy

Mail-Order Brides’ First Christmas ~ Series Introduction by Various Authors

Welcome to Romance Sweet Reads! Today, we’re going to take a quick look at the new series, Mail-Order Brides’ First Christmas ~ twenty-one wonderful happily-ever-afters, spread out over the next two-and-a-half months for your reading enjoyment!

And—BONUS—the absolutely breathtaking covers were created by the mega-talented Virginia McKevitt of Black Widow Books.

About the Series

These lovely Mail-Order Brides have never known the joy of a real Christmas due to their circumstances in life. They struggle not only with the problems being a Mail-Order Bride can bring, but also with their perceptions of life and love.

However, as with any great romance, they will each get what they’ve always wanted...happiness...and even fall in love on their First Real Christmas.

All the books in the series are historical/western historical and set between the years of the mid-1800s through early 1900s. Each book will be available through Kindle Unlimited. Some, but possibly not all, will also be available in print.

You can find all twenty-one books listed on the Amazon Series Page

The Series Schedule & Authors

Oct 17 – A Christmas Coat for Abigail by Angela Lain
Oct 21 – A Christmas Child for Callie by Elissa Strati
Oct 25 – A Christmas Card for Krista by Linda Baten Johnson
Oct 29 – A Christmas Hope for Regina by Patricia PacJac Carroll
Nov 2 – A Christmas Kiss for Kate by Wren McCready
Nov 6 – A Christmas Comfort for Elsie by Regina Walker
Nov 10 – A Christmas Wish for Clara by P. Creeden
Nov 14 – A Christmas Star for Mae by Allyson Carter
Nov 18 – A Christmas Carol for Catherine by Cat Cahill
Nov 22 – A Christmas Hope for Hannah by Joi Copeland
Nov 26 – A Christmas Gift for Mary by Kandice E. Geddes
Nov 30 – A Christmas Tree for Trudel by Linda Carroll-Bradd
Dec 4 – A Christmas Candle for Eleanor by Regina Walker
Dec 8 – A Christmas Dance for Ella by Rachel Skatvold
Dec 12 – A Christmas Escape for Elizabeth by Joi Copeland
Dec 16 – A Christmas Dream for Destiny by Annee Jones
Dec 20 – A Christmas Magic for Merritt by Lorah Jaiyn
Dec 24 – A Christmas Wreath for Whitney by London James
And, because we can’t let go of this wonderful series, or blessed holiday, we've added a few post-holiday treats ...
Dec 28 – A Christmas Journey for Jessie by Farrah Lee
Jan 1 – A Christmas Baby for Beatrice by Nancy Fraser
Jan 5 – A Christmas Groom for Grace by Joi Copeland

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Thank you so much for joining us today for the series overview. We invite you to come back every release day to get a sneak peak at the individual books, including exclusive excerpts available only here at Romance Sweet Reads.

Blessings,
Nancy

HEARTS, HOMES AND HOLIDAYS ~ FEATURING: MACY'S GIFTS by Author Nancy Fraser

Welcome back to Romance Sweet Reads. We're featuring the holiday anthology, Hearts, Homes and Holidays. The anthology is a currently available to pre-order for just 99¢ on all major ebook retailers. All proceeds from the sale of Hearts, Homes, and Holidays will benefit Reece’s Rainbow, an organization that assists with the adoption of special-needs children.

Today, we’ll look at the last of our nine stories, Macy’s Gift by author Nancy Fraser, including an exclusive excerpt available only on Romance Sweet Reads.

Family Ever After

Longing hearts, loving homes, and lively holidays combine in this Romantique Treasury with new contributions from nine bestselling and award-winning authors. This warm-hearted romance anthology combines friends, families, and faith as hope blossoms in the lives of orphaned children.

Macy’s Gift by Nancy Fraser

Macy Williams loves her career as a photojournalist. She loves the freedom to travel, to take pictures of people, places, and events that help shape the world.

When her brother and sister-in-law die in an automobile accident, Macy is drawn back to her small, mid-Michigan hometown of Brant Mills to handle their estate. In and out, that’s her plan. At least it was her plan... until she discovers she’s been named the sole guardian of her two nieces. Eleven year old Brittany and four year old, autistic, Lily Anne are now the only family she has. Macy must figure out how she will cope with a life she never asked for, or wanted.

Cordell (Cord) Adams was Macy’s brother’s best friend, and also the Williams’ family primary physician. He’s surprised by his friend’s choice of guardian for the girls. He only met Macy once, and the meeting was anything but cordial. Now, he must find a way to make peace with the opinionated Macy and help her navigate this sudden change in— not just her life—but that of the girls as well. Hopefully, his faith will help him make the right decisions.

Can two strong-willed individuals set aside their differences for the good of two young girls who long for stability and love?

Enjoy an Excerpt

“There you are,” Brittney said, meeting her gaze with a defiant stare. “Doc Adams was worried you’d left town.”

“Brittney…” A rich baritone voice sounded from the next room. “That is not what I said, and you know it.”

What is he still doing here?

“Where’s Millie?” Macy asked, her voice a mere whisper, her question aimed at her niece.

“She said she had to study for an exam tomorrow. The Doc offered to stay.”

Of course, he did.

Macy hung her coat on the peg closest to the door and set her purse and the items she’d brought from the car on the nearby wicker stand. Sucking in a deep breath, she went to beard the lion in his den. Or, more precisely, her den.

“Doctor Adams, how nice to see you again,” she greeted when she entered the room.

His deep chuckle sent tingles skittering across the back of her arms.

“You too Miss Williams. What’s it been? Like two hours, two-and-a-half?”

“Why are you still here? Surely one of the neighbors would have been happy to come and relieve you.” She shot him a glare. “Don’t you have patients to visit, or something?”

“I’m here because LilyAnne refused her medication and, when I insisted, she had a minor meltdown. I wanted to make sure she was all right.”

“That was very thoughtful of you.” With a softening of her voice, she whispered, “Thank you.”

He gave a quick nod, but the expression of his face was more wary than agreeable.

“I’ve made you a schedule,” he said simply, holding out the page-long list.

“Oh, great, another schedule.” The moment the words left her mouth, she regretted them.

Rather than be angered by her sarcasm, the corner of Cordell Adams’ mouth lifted in a smirk. “I take it you’ve experienced the church ladies and their penchant for lists.”

“Yes. It seems the only thing they haven’t scheduled are bathroom trips.”

The smirk became a full-on smile. “Those are on my list. At least for LilyAnne. I’ll leave the scheduling of your bodily functions to you.”

Her gaze shot skyward in resignation. “Great. I feel like I’m in control again.”

“Macy... uh... Miss Williams. Control for these next few weeks will be an exercise in futility. Resign yourself to the fact that you’re going to lose.”

She glanced down at his list, her attention honing in automatically on his name. “What’s this?”

“That’s me,” he said simply. “Or, more precisely, that’s LilyAnne’s next appointment with me.”

“I thought she saw a specialist.”

“She does. Every six months. In the interim, I manage her day-to-day care.”

“Okay, I’ve got your list, and Mrs. Miller’s list. I’m all set. You can go now.”

“Are you sure you don’t me to stay until LilyAnne’s in bed?”

“Positive,” she told him, nodding toward the front door. “We’re all good.”

“Fine. I’ll go. My number is on the front of the refrigerator if you have questions.”

“I won’t.” She yanked the door open so he could leave.

He started through the door, only to stop short of crossing the threshold. “Macy, can I give you one word of advice?”

She huffed an exhausted sigh. “I suppose.”

“Don’t let LilyAnne bite you.”

“What?”

“And, if she does, make sure you wash her mouth with warm water before you worry about yourself.”

Macy reached out and gave him a shove the rest of the way through the door.

“That was five words of advice,” she pointed out as she swung the door to within an inch of closing.

“True,” he agreed, the sound of his laughter slipping easily beneath the thick oak door.

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Meet the Author

Nancy Fraser a Top 100 best-selling and award-winning author.

She's also the granddaughter of a Methodist minister known for his fire-and-brimstone approach to his faith. Nancy has brought some of his spirit into her Christian romances. And, her own off-beat sense of humor to her clean & wholesome books.

When not writing (which is almost never), Nancy dotes on her five wonderful grandchildren and looks forward to traveling and reading when time permits. Nancy lives in Atlantic Canada where she enjoys the relaxed pace and colorful people.

Sweet Reads ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Amazon Author Page ~ Bookbub ~ 

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Adoption is another word for love, and proceeds from this collection of inspiring stories will benefit special-needs adoption grants through Reece’s Rainbow.

Available on Your Favorite Retailer

Join the Readers Group on Facebook

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(While you’re there, be sure to download your free activity book!)

Thank you so much for joining us over the past ten days to celebrate Hearts, Homes and Holidays. We hope you’ll take the time to purchase the anthology in support of Reece’s Rainbow. Remember, it’s only one sale through release week before the price increases!

Blessings,
Nancy

HEARTS, HOMES AND HOLIDAYS ~ FEATURING: FOREVER FAMILY by Author Christine Sterling

Welcome back to Romance Sweet Reads. This week and next we’ll be featuring the nine individual stories from the holiday anthology, Hearts, Homes and Holidays. The anthology is a currently available to pre-order for just 99¢ on all major ebook retailers. All proceeds from the sale of Hearts, Homes, and Holidays will benefit Reece’s Rainbow, an organization that assists with the adoption of special-needs children.

Today, we’ll look at the eighth of our nine stories, Forever Family by author Christine Sterling, including an exclusive excerpt available only on Romance Sweet Reads.

So, sit back and enjoy a look at the fabulous collection of heartfelt holiday romances by some of your favorite authors.

Family Ever After

Longing hearts, loving homes, and lively holidays combine in this Romantique Treasury with new contributions from nine bestselling and award-winning authors. This warm-hearted romance anthology combines friends, families, and faith as hope blossoms in the lives of orphaned children.

Forever Family by Christine Sterling

Susan Vuichard is committed to making sure no child is forgotten in the foster system. Opening her family farm to three sisters that have nowhere else to go, and even less chance to be adopted, is a temporary solution.

Richard Petra is still suffering the loss of his wife and unborn child. In order to ensure the memories remain buried, he refuses to interview children and avoids holiday celebrations. When his boss insists that he interview three sisters stuck in the welfare system at Christmas time, Richard has no choice. Imagine his surprise to find his high-school sweetheart, Susan is the girls’ foster mother.

Sparks fly and his heart opens against his will. Can Richard conquer his fear and pain enough to let Susan and the girls into his hard heart? Can Susan help her old flame, and the girls she’s vowed to find a home for by Christmas? Can this group somehow become a FOREVER FAMILY?

Enjoy an Excerpt

“Police in Richmond, Virginia are requesting assistance in identifying three minor girls found locked in a bathroom at the Jefferson Hotel.”

Richard Petra’s nose twitched. He could smell a story. Not just any old story.

The one that would put him back in the anchor’s chair.

He picked up the remote and upped the volume. An artist’s rendering of a woman and three young girls flashed on the screen.

“An unidentified white female in her mid-thirties was found dead this evening. No information about the children has been released at this time. The police department is requesting any information be sent to their tip line. According to officers, the children do not appear to be harmed and have been placed with Virginia Social Services.”

His nostrils flared. Some men enjoyed the scent of barbeque - others, the scent of gun oil and a newly released charge. Richard liked the smell of a story. Stories didn’t have smells limited to the natural world, like pine trees or a woman’s perfume. They were a mixture of emotions and the natural world.

This story smelled like rust, mold, and lost hope.

“… back to you, Kami.”

Kami?

He refocused his attention back onto the screen. Kami Green, the morning news anchor, looked as pale as sour cream. “Thank you, Ted. Viewers can reach out at the number listed at the bottom of their screens with any information.”

He shut off the TV and picked up his cell phone, dialing a number he knew by heart.

“WKCD, Jimmy Falcon’s Office. This is Justine. How can I help you?”

“Put him on the phone, Justine.”

A hiccup of silence before she said, “Richie, you know, I can’t do that. He’s still mad at you.”

“Tell him to get in line,” he drawled. “C’mon, Justine. You owe me.”

“Richie,” her voice lowered. “I can’t lose my job by letting you talk to him. I’ve got kids to take care of.”

“Who got you that job, Justine?”

He heard her groan. “You did.”

“Who helped your brother get enrolled in—”

“All right, Richie. I get it. I owe you big time. But you gotta understand. This is Jimmy Falcon, the president of the network. I can’t just—oh! Mr. Falcon!”

Richard pressed the phone harder to his ear, but the next moment he yanked it away as a loud voice bellowed, “Richard, that better not be you!”

“It’s me, Jimmy,” he hollered right back. “And don’t you dare hang up!”

~ ~ ~

Meet the Author

Christine Sterling writes sweet wholesome romance with a touch of sass. She has written over sixty-five books in both the western historical and contemporary romance genres. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, a spoiled Shih Tzu, two German Shepherds and an energetic Border Collie, that keep her on her toes. She spends her time writing, thinking about writing, and dreaming about writing. Her favorite things are a good cup of tea, puppy snuggles, a movie that will make you cry and happily ever afters.

Christine's Website ~ Amazon Author Page ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ Bookbub

~ ~ ~

Adoption is another word for love, and proceeds from this collection of inspiring stories will benefit special-needs adoption grants through Reece’s Rainbow.

Available on Your Favorite Retailer

Join the Readers Group on Facebook

Or Visit us Online

(While you’re there, be sure to download your free activity book!)

Please come back again tomorrow when we’ll be featuring author Nancy Fraser's contribution to this extraordinary anthology.

Blessings,
Nancy

HEARTS, HOMES AND HOLIDAYS ~ FEATURING: NOT PART OF OUR EVENING PLANS by Author Caroline Lee

Welcome back to Romance Sweet Reads. This week and next we’ll be featuring the nine individual stories from the holiday anthology, Hearts, Homes and Holidays. The anthology is a currently available to pre-order for just 99¢ on all major ebook retailers. All proceeds from the sale of Hearts, Homes, and Holidays will benefit Reece’s Rainbow, an organization that assists with the adoption of special-needs children.

Today, we’ll look at the seventh of our nine stories, Not Part of Our Evening Plans by author Caroline Lee, including an exclusive excerpt available only on Romance Sweet Reads.

So, sit back and enjoy a look at the fabulous collection of heartfelt holiday romances by some of your favorite authors.

Family Ever After

Longing hearts, loving homes, and lively holidays combine in this Romantique Treasury with new contributions from nine bestselling and award-winning authors. This warm-hearted romance anthology combines friends, families, and faith as hope blossoms in the lives of orphaned children.


Not Part of Our Evening Plans by Caroline Lee

As a couple, Jace and Dinky Cunningham struggle with the loss of their plans for a family; but, circumstances can change in a split second.

***

Discover River’s End Ranch, a gorgeous “destination” ranch and resort in Riston, Idaho, that is run by the six Weston siblings and their well-meaning, semi-retired parents. Five bestselling western romance authors have created a world like no other--full of fun outdoor activities, a huge family in need of love, and side characters you will never forget. Join us in a world where our characters learn, laugh and love. Follow Jace and Dinky’s love story in “Wild West Wedding,” and follow-up with their family in “Bigfoot Believer.”

Enjoy an Excerpt

“You wanna head to trivia tonight?”

Dink looked up from their tiny kitchen table, where she’d been staring out the window and nursing her coffee. For the last three hours. Since last fall, when the doctor had given them the news, she’d done this more and more.

“Hmmm?” she asked her husband, not sure if he’d said anything more and she’d just been too flaked out to hear him.

Jace’s handsome face softened. He stood by the front door to the tiny house they’d been renting for almost a year and a half, still bundled up in his winter gear. He held a handful of mail in one hand—they got all their mail directed to his accounting office here at River’s End Ranch—and was peeling off his scarf with the other.

Not for the first time, Dink wondered how someone as tall as her husband could manage to be comfortable in this tiny house. As it was, sitting at the kitchen table, she could reach out and touch him, standing at the front door. But they’d learned to manage, and it was fun. Besides, it was just the two of them.

Would only ever be just the two of them…

“I asked,” Jace repeated gently, “if you wanted to go to trivia tonight. We haven’t been in a while, and I recall you and I made a pretty good team.”

Dink snorted. “I recall you didn’t think I had anything to offer, Mr. Smarty-Pants.”

“You’re remembering incorrectly,” Jace deadpanned, slotting the mail into the appropriate “bills to be addressed” or “wastebasket” piles.

She lifted her coffee to sip, but it’d long since gone cold. “Did you just call me wrong?”

“I did!” Jace nodded too enthusiastically to be anything but teasing. “That’s the word I was looking for.”

A grin reluctantly pulled at Dink’s lips. How long had it been since she’d let herself go and really laughed? She and Jace were so very different, but they’d made the perfect odd couple, and were so good together.

It wasn’t until their infertility diagnosis that things had gotten choppy. After researching extensively, they’d decided not to tackle IVF—in-vitro fertilization—because of the strain it would cause on Dink, their savings, and their relationship…and because the doctor said there was a low likelihood of it working. Jace had made his peace with not having biological children, but there were days like today—beautiful winter days where the snow was just begging to be played in—that Dink couldn’t concentrate on her sewing, for all the obsessing she was doing over what it would be like to have a child.

~ ~ ~

Meet the Author

USA Today Bestseller Caroline Lee has been reading romance for so long that her fourth-grade teacher used to make her cover her books with paper jackets. But it wasn’t until she (mostly) grew up that she realized she could WRITE it too. So she did.

Caroline is living her own little Happily Ever After in NC with her husband, sons, and daughter, Princess Wiggles. And while she doesn’t so much “suffer” from Pittakionophobia as think all you people who enjoy touching Band-Aids and stickers are the real weirdos, she does adore rodents, and never met a wine she didn’t like.

Caroline was named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year in 2006 (just like everyone else) and is really quite funny in person. Promise.

Caroline's Website ~ Amazon Author Page ~ Bookbub ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

~ ~ ~

Adoption is another word for love, and proceeds from this collection of inspiring stories will benefit special-needs adoption grants through Reece’s Rainbow.

Available on Your Favorite Retailer

Join the Readers Group on Facebook

Or Visit us Online

(While you’re there, be sure to download your free activity book!)

Please come back again tomorrow when we’ll be featuring author Christine Sterling’s story to this extraordinary anthology.

Blessings,
Nancy