Krista Lynne Jensen

This is an included Audible Original and it was a very good one. Some are not, but I found the story well done as was the narration. Recommended especially for those who really enjoy Christmas.

FROM AMAZON: Riley Madigan escapes to the sleepy mountain town of Miracle Creek after her relationship with an A-list actor ends badly. At least for a time, she hopes her new job as a high school art teacher will bring her the peace and quiet she is looking for. The last thing on her mind is love.

Mark Rivers was a firefighter until he got trapped in a wildfire and suffered third-degree burns on his face and body. After a year of recovering, Mark is trying to piece his life back together but struggles both emotionally and psychologically. He's been a recluse until he forces himself to attend his niece's school play and sees Riley, the school's art teacher. Immediately, Mark feels a connection to her. Maybe it's the kind way she greets his niece or the way the art she created for the school play is reminiscent of his late mom's artwork. Either way, Mark feels driven to get to know her, but first he'll need to build up the courage to talk to her.

When Mark asks Riley to work on a special nativity, he finds himself falling for her, particularly because Riley doesn't seem bothered by his scars. Is her affection for him real or is she simply overcompensating, pretending he's not different. One thing's for certain, in a small town that views Mark as a fragile hero, it's hard to pursue a relationship without everyone in his business. And although Riley has sincere feelings for Mark, is she really ready to risk her heart?… (mehr)

“My persistent desire to never grow up is at war with my suspicion that I already have, and I’m left wondering what to fight for.”

Absolutely adored Hearts of Briarwall! This unique story incorporates all the amazing happenings during the Edwardian era with a heartfelt story, swoon-worthy romance, and a fantastic group of young women who immediately drew me in. The Wendy League espouses all the hope the magical book of Peter Pan inspires of wanting to fly. From motor cars to votes for women, these heiresses desire to be acknowledged for the intelligent young women they are and I loved their varying personalities and friendship. I can’t wait to read more about the Wendy League! Themes of growing up, overcoming the past, and wanting to soar along with the swoony romance of the best friend falling for the little sister make this a definite must read!

Orphaned at a young age, Lydia Wooding has only had her protective older brother Andrew and a handful of servants to guide her. Now grown up, she still holds a wild enthusiasm and wonder of youth. She and her fellow Wendy League friends make her brother believe they’re discussing novels, but instead they discuss suffrage, womanhood, and of course men. When Andrew’s friend Spencer comes to visit with a business proposal involving motor cars, Lydia is immediately intrigued. This handsome young man seems to really appreciate her and she can’t help falling in love with him and his ideas. But, when the past threatens their budding relationship, will they have the courage to follow their dreams?

Spencer Hayes has been fighting for a place in the world since he was young. Growing up in Birmingham, his father gave him the opportunity to attend school that he made the most of despite his humble upbringing. Now he’s turning to his friend Andrew who helped him in school to invest in his new idea. He’s had issues in the past of losing his heart easily, but when he sees Andrew’s younger sister all grown up, it’s hard for him to resist. Gone is the shy little girl who hid behind pillars. Instead, he finds Lydia a delightful force who’s hard to deny. From helping cows give birth, to bicycle rides, to her wanting to invest in his company, Spencer is smitten, but he can’t give into his feelings especially when he knows Andrew already has another suitor in mind.

Loved Spencer and Lydia! I loved Lydia’s passion and her desire to be taken seriously all while displaying that uniquely feminine tender heart. Her boldness is contagious and I loved her quick wit. Oh my, that scene where they practice “In the Shade of the Old Apple Tree!” Talk about swoony! I also loved the thunderstorm and the Greek temple. *sigh* The attraction and chemistry are sizzling! Spencer is adorable! He’s forward thinking, enthusiastic, and romantic! I loved it when he slips into his Birmingham accent. I also adored the Wendy League! These young women each had such fun, engaging personalities and I can’t wait to read their stories.

This is definitely one creative, hard to put down read that will leave you wanting more! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series! If you’re a fan of Downton Abbey but looking for a clean romance alternative, I highly recommend this book! I received an advance complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.… (mehr)

This delightful page turner is set in 1906 Edwardian England, and we are with 20 year old Lydia Wooding. You can’t help but love Lydia, she is so full of life, ready for adventure, and more than willing to do her part. She is a member, along with her dear friends, of the Wendy League, from “Peter Pan”, and these girls are looking to spread their wings!
Enter Spencer Hayes, entrepreneur, a friend of Lydia’s brother Andrew, and now suddenly on Lydia’s radar. Didn’t take long for Spencer to see how little Lydia has grown up. He needs to focus on getting financial help to forge ahead with his motor parts stores, and Andrew is the key to this.
Now Andrew is really leery about anything having to due with motor cars, he lost his parents to an accident, but then there is Lydia, and her hearts desire to learn to drive, can you see a problem brewing here?
I loved how this read played out, and once the last page was turned, I wanted more! I will be looking for more books by Krista Jensen!
I received this book from the Publisher Shadow Mountain, and was not required to give a positive review.… (mehr)

With a lovely cover and stories by four talented authors, A Hopeful Christmas hit the spot to start getting me in the Christmas spirit. Each novella was well-crafted and delightful with engaging, colorful main characters and a captivating plot packed with adventures and romance.

I enjoy reading Christmas novellas, because I can fit one in when I have an hour or two. This collection was especially appealing since it featured some of my favorite authors. They definitely did not disappoint with their charming tales. I would recommend A Hopeful Christmas to those who enjoy sweet, clean Christmas stories.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.… (mehr)