May 15, 2025 – My Sanctuary

Review Card & Book Review – The Party Line By Carolyn Brown

Returning home to Ditto, Texas, is bittersweet for Lila Matthews. Her dear and feisty aunt Gracie has passed away, leaving Lila her estate. That includes a centuries-old house, a field of the freshest strawberries in Atascosa County, more money than Lila can count, and a secret Aunt Gracie took to her grave. All the angels in heaven won’t be able to pry it out of her.

For more than eighty years, generations of folks in Ditto have whispered and gossiped about what the secret could be. When Lila inherits Aunt Gracie’s legacy, ears perk up and tongues start wagging. As Lila reacquaints herself with locals, finds warmth in family—extended and otherwise—and cozies up to a handsome new neighbor, she begins collecting clues to the past. They’re revealing an Aunt Gracie nobody knew—and a life of rebellion, broken hearts, and selfless love that affected more people than anyone realized.

Whatever reason Aunt Gracie had for leaving Lila the secret, will it now be Lila’s secret to keep?

About The Author

My Review

“The Party Line” by Carolyn Brown is a heartwarming small-town story that explores secrets, love, and family. Gracie, who grew up in Ditto, Texas, lived in a time when party lines allowed neighbors to eavesdrop on phone conversations, making privacy a rare commodity. Gracie took one secret to her grave, but when her niece Lila inherits her estate, that secret begins to unravel. Lila is left with a choice: uncover the truth or sell the farm and move on.

The novel shifts between the 1950s and present day, blending a nostalgic look at life in a simpler era with modern themes of love and family. While Lila’s investigation into her aunt’s past is engaging, the romance between Lila and Connor adds warmth to the story, even though it doesn’t dominate the plot. Brown skillfully crafts vivid scenes, but at times, the pacing slows due to excessive detail and the inclusion of side characters like Lila’s mother and business partner.

Overall, the book is a charming mix of romance, mystery, and family dynamics, earning a solid 4 out of 5 stars for its portrayal of community, relationships, and personal growth.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Happy Publication Day – 15 May 2025

Sunshine After The Rain By Jessica Redland

For the last seven years Mel has been hiding; from life, from her friends and from those who love her the most – her family. But being at home in her beloved Lake District has been far too painful for Mel to contemplate. Because seven years ago, Mel lost everything and she’s never been able to banish the dark clouds that follow her.

When Mel returns to Willowdale for a family event, she has no intention of staying. But surrounded by her family she begins to realise just how much she’s been missing and also, how much healing she still needs to do.

Starting a dream job at Willowdale Hall, going on walks with Emma and her funny alpacas and reconnecting with those she loves, Mel slowly begins to see chinks of light and a more hopeful and happier future ahead.

And as Mel begins to feel stronger, she also feels brave enough to face the most painful part of leaving home…the one man she has always loved. With his help, can she finally banish the dark clouds forever and see the sunshine after the rain?

Review Card & Book Review – My Darling Jane By Ilsa Madden-Mills

On an ordinary day, Jane Darling wouldn’t be caught dead in a sports bar wearing a toga with angel wings. But she’s desperate to launch her matchmaking business to secure her young daughter’s future. Her mission: to attract new clients at any cost.

Her Cupid outfit catches the eye of New York’s beloved star quarterback, Jasper Jannich. She and Jasper have always clashed, but when a pushy admirer goes too far, he steps in as an unexpected knight in shining armor.

He offers a tantalizing proposal: to be Cupid’s Arrow’s premier client. Reluctantly, Jane agrees, aware of the business potential despite her reservations about Jasper and his playboy reputation.

As she sets him up on date after date, it grows clear that Jane’s the only woman he wants.

She is his goal, his endgame.

She’s not not interested…but her heart has been burned before. To get anywhere, they’ll need courage and faith, not just sizzling chemistry.

He’s ready to make the pass. Is his darling ready to catch it?

About The Author

My Review

My Darling Jane is the second book in The Darlings series by Ilsa Madden-Mills. While it can be read as a standalone, reading My Darling Bride first enhances the experience. This book is a heartwarming, emotional, and funny romance that keeps readers fully engaged.

The story follows Jane Darling, a single mom managing her sister’s bookstore and trying to grow her matchmaking service. Jane is smart, witty, strong, and funny. Her counterpart, Jasper Jannich, is a charming and laid-back football quarterback who knows how to sweep women off their feet. Their chemistry is electric, and their banter is both hilarious and entertaining.

Though the relationship between Jane and Jasper isn’t without challenges, the story ultimately delivers a satisfying happily-ever-after. Madden-Mills skillfully blends humor and romance, creating memorable moments and well-developed characters, including fun side characters like Jasper’s nieces and Babs from the bookstore. Overall, it’s a delightful, well-written romance that leaves readers wanting more.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble