The Girl from the Hidden Forest by Hannah Linder (Austenprose PR Book Tour)

 

Do you like to hike / walk / visit forests or woods?  I grew up near a pine woods and I always love wooded areas.  The nearby Point Beach State Forest is a place where my family likes to camp and hike.

Eliza Ellis has grown up in the Balfour Forest with her father, the Captain, and her loyal Beagle, Merrylad.  One day, a stranger, Felton Northwood, enters her home and kidnaps her.  He takes her away to what he says is her home and tells her that her name is Miss Eliza Gillingham and that her father is a viscount. Felton has returned her to her home as he believes she is the only person who knows who murdered her mother.  Felton’s own father has lived under the shadow of suspicion since the murder.  Who really murdered Eliza’s mother? Why did the Captain take Eliza to the woods to raise? 

My thoughts on this book:

·       I loved that Eliza’s dog, Merrylad, was a beagle.  The cute beagle on the cover of the book looks a lot like my beagle Daisy.  Daisy said this book is beagle approved and that Merrylad is a lot braver of a beagle than she is. (Swipe right for a picture of Daisy)

·       I felt bad for Eliza in this book.  She led a simple life in the woods reading and listening to the Captain’s tales.  It was hard for her to make the adjustment from that life to life in society.  Her memories return little by little and have a great impact on those around her.

·       The Swabian beats Felton early in the book and his shadow looms large over the book.  Who is this evil character and what does he have to do with the Captain, Eliza, and Felton?

·       The suspense in this novel was engaging and kept me enthralled until the last page.

·       I really liked the characters of Eliza and Fenton.  It took me a bit to warm up to Fenton after he kidnapped Eliza at the start of the novel, but I eventually really liked him and also felt sorry for him.  I enjoyed the sweet romance between them.

·       I also enjoyed the friendship between Fenton and Lord Gillingham (Eliza’s father).

·       This novel was set during the Regency time period which is one of my favorite time periods to read about.

·       This story has beautiful themes of redemption.

·       This is a clean read.

·       This book is perfect for Gothic romantic suspense fans of Mary Stewart or Victoria Holt novels.

Overall, The Girl from the Hidden Forest is a beautifully written Regency romantic suspense novel.  It’s a great story that will keep you up too late in the night to find out the ending.  I highly recommend this novel.

Book Source:  Review copy from Barbour Books as part of the Austenprose PR Book Tour. Thank-you!  Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

The nightmares may free her…but destroy the man she loves.

Eliza Ellis has stayed hidden in Balfour Forest for as long as she can remember. Perhaps her only friends are the trees, or her little dog, or her story-telling father called Captain. But at least she is safe from the cruel world outside, a world Captain has warned her against and protected her from.

That is, until a handsome stranger named Felton Northwood invades her quiet forest and steals her away. Why does he tell such lies? Why does he insist that her name is Miss Eliza Gillingham, daughter of a viscount, who disappeared fourteen years ago after the murder of her own mother? A murder Eliza is said to have witnessed.

When Felton returns Eliza to Monbury Manor and reunites her with a man who is told to be her father, all she remembers are the strange nightmares that have plagued her since childhood. Why have they suddenly grown worse? Are the answers hidden inside her own mind?

As danger mounts and lethal attempts are made on her life, Eliza and Felton must work together to uncover the identity of a killer who has stayed silent for fourteen years. When she finally uncovers the horrendous memories trapped in her mind, will divulging the truth cost her the man she loves—and both of their lives?

AUTHOR BIO

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels filled with passion, secrets, and danger. She is a four-time Selah Award winner, a 2023 Carol Award semi-finalist, a 2023 Angel Book Award third place winner, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments--piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjolele--songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, square dancing, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com.

Garden of the Midnights by Hannah Linder (Austenprose PR Book Tour)

 

Do you like to pick apples yourself or do you like to buy them from the store?  Do you have any favorite fall activities that you enjoy doing?   My family has liked to pick apples together since my son Kile was one-year old.  He is now seventeen and we enjoyed one last apple picking together this weekend.  He’ll be off to college next fall.

William Kensley has recently inherited Rosenleigh Manor, but accidents seem to keep occurring that threaten his life.  He searches deep into his past to discover the truth of his birth and the secrets that endanger his life.  Isabella Gresham is a young debutante who is trying to determine if love can truly exist after witnessing her parents’ loveless marriage.  As William and Isabelle’s friendship builds, will they be able to rescue themselves and each other from peril?

I loved the characters of William and Isabella as well as all the side characters in this book.  I thought the story was very engaging and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next to these two.  I loved the twists and turns as William learned of his true identity and place in the world.  I enjoyed that Isabella had a sixth sense about a seemingly perfect suitor, but unfortunately no one would listen to her. 

I appreciated the theme of forgiveness: “After all they had suffered.  All they had lost.  All the hurt that had been done to them by a husband who could have stayed and met their needs.  Why should she murmur of forgiveness at a time like this?”  William ponders forgiveness throughout the novel. 

I adore romantic suspense with a Gothic vibe, especially in the fall.  It feels like perfect reading for this time of year.  I also loved the Regency setting.  This reminded me of a Jane Austen story blended with a Bronte novel.

Garden of Midnights is a clean read.

I have enjoyed Hannah Linder’s previous novels and will definitely be reading more of her work!

Book Source:  Review copy from Barbour Publishing as a part of the Austenprose PR Book Tour. Thank-you!  Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

QUICK FACTS

·       Title: Garden of the Midnights

·       Author: Hannah Linder

·       Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Suspense, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction

·       Publisher: Barbour Books (October 1, 2023)

·       Length: (320) pages

·       Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & audiobook 

·       ISBN: 978-1636094380

·       Tour Dates: October 2 – 16, 2023

 

BOOK DESCRIPTION

The accidents are not a matter of chance. They are deliberate. As English gentleman William Kensley becomes aware of the danger at Rosenleigh Manor, he pleads for the truth of his past from the only man he can trust—until that man is murdered. 
 
As the secrets unfold into scandal, William’s world is tipped into destitution, leaving him penniless and alone. His only comfort is in the constant friendship and love of Isabella Gresham. If he does not have their nonsense at the seashore, their laughter, their reckless adventures, has he anything at all?
 
He should have known that would be ripped from him too. When a hidden foe arises from their acquaintances and imperils Isabella’s life, William may be the only one willing to risk his life to rescue her. But even if he frees Isabella from her captors, will he still have to forsake her heart? 

Some sacrifice everything for love. Others sacrifice love for everything else. In this haunting tale of rigid social prejudices and heart-aching regrets, the greatest decision of their life will be determined in the garden of the midnights. 

PRAISE FOR GARDEN OF THE MIDNIGHTS

• “Hannah Linder's engrossing new novel is taut with life-and-death danger, twisty turns, and sweet, forbidden romance. Garden of the Midnights is sure to keep you up late turning pages!”— Julie Klassen, bestselling author of The Sisters of Sea View
• “A uniquely atmospheric novel, Garden of the Midnights intrigues from page one and never lets up. Readers will be swept away in the mystery and romance, and find themselves cheering for William and Isabella as they fight for their happily ever after. Hannah Linder's newest is beautifully written and a wonderful fresh take on the genre. One not to be missed!”— Joanna Barker, author of A Heart Worth Stealing, A Game of Hearts, and Otherwise Engaged
• "Unexpected twists and turns abound in this sweeping Regency suspense! Hannah Linder's writing is reminiscent of Austen, with fresh storytelling that will keep you on the edge of your seat."— Kasey Stockton, author of I'm Not Charlotte Lucas and the Bradwell Brothers series

 

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

 

AUTHOR BIO

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels filled with passion, secrets, and danger. She is a four-time Selah Award winner, a 2023 Carol Award semi-finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

Also, Hannah is an international and multi-award-winning graphic designer who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a self-portrait photographer of historical fashion.

When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments―piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjolele―songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. Her next novel, The Girl from the Hidden Forest, is releasing on May 1, 2024.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

When Tomorrow Came by Hannah Lindor (Austenprose PR Book Tour)

 

What would you like tomorrow to bring to you?  I would love some warm weather please!

Heath and Nan are two siblings that were left with a terrible guardian when their father goes to sea.   As they are slowly starving to death, they decide to fend for themselves on the streets of London.  After Nan is involved in a carriage accident, she gets the chance to live a better life raised by a guardian.  Meanwhile Heath is raised by a wonderful Rector who gives him a home and a love for God.  When tomorrow comes and their father returns, he reunites the siblings.  What should have been a happy occasion turns sour when their father has great expectations for them that do not match their own wants and desires.  Will Heath and Nan be able to find their own happily ever after?

I loved Hannah Lindor’s first book, Beneath His Silence, and was greatly looking forward to her new book, When Tomorrow Came.  I was not disappointed and greatly enjoyed this book.  I really liked the characters.  I just loved Heath and the love for his sister.  It was heartbreaking at the start of the novel when the two were separated.  I also enjoyed how he had a kinder gentler approach to what he wanted to do with life.    

I also enjoyed the romance between the two primary couples in this book.  I also really enjoyed the mystery and suspense in this novel and it kept me hooked to the end wondering what was going to happen.  I loved the theme of sacrifice in this novel.

The only downfall of this book to me is that when the point of view switched around, I didn’t realize it at first until a name was mentioned.  It made the story seem slightly disjointed to me.  

Overall, When Tomorrow Came is a great romantic suspense novel and I highly recommend it!

Review Copy from Barbour Fiction.   Thank-you! I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of the Austenprose PR Book Tour. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

QUICK FACTS

·       Title: When Tomorrow Came: A Novel

·       Author: Hannah Linder

·       Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Suspense, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction

·       Publisher: Barbour Books (April 1, 2023)

·       Length: (320) pages

·       Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & audiobook 

·       ISBN: 978-1636094403

·       Tour Dates: March 27 – April 10, 2023

 

BOOK DESCRIPTION

They Waited Their Whole Lives for Their Papa to Return

Nan and Heath Duncan, siblings abandoned by their papa and abused by their guardian, have no choice but to survive on the London streets. When a kind gentleman rescues Nan from such a life, the siblings are separated and raised in two vastly different social worlds. Just when both are beginning to flourish and years have healed some of their wounds, their long-awaited papa returns and reunites them--bringing demands with him. Nan is expected to marry a rich suitor she's never liked, and Heath is expected to forsake his gentle spirit and become the hardened man his father always was.

Dangers unfold, secret love develops, fights ensue, and murder upsets the worlds Heath and Nan have built for themselves. They've waited their whole lives for their papa to return, for tomorrow to come--but now that it has, will they be able to see through to the truth and end this whirlwind of a nightmare before it costs one of their lives?

PRAISE FOR WHEN TOMORROW CAME

• "The plot is full of intrigue, and it’s anchored by complicated characters whose secrets are slowly, carefully revealed. Readers will be hooked."— Publisher’s Weekly
• “Filled with intrigue, heartache, love, and a cast of beloved characters…this unique story had me crying and cheering. I can’t wait to read her next book!”— Kimberley Woodhouse, bestselling author of the award-winning Secrets of the Canyon series
• When Tomorrow Came captured my heart from the very beginning…All the characters were so endearing and the story line with mystery and suspense kept me up way too late.”— Dana Michael, Goodreads

 

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

 

AUTHOR BIO

Hannah Linder

resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design associate degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments--piano, guitar, and ukulele--songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

 

Beneath His Silence by Hannah Linder (Austenprose PR Book Tour)

 

Do you read or watch any suspense novels / movies?  What about historical suspense?

I was originally supposed to post this review on the 12^th and I apologize for the delay.  My Grandma is not feeling well so I made a surprise trip back to Michigan to visit her.  I feel you need to cherish the moments that you can with family.

I love historical suspense novels.  I blame Daphne Du Maurier, Mary Stewart, and Victoria Holt for my love of this genre.  It was my escapism reading while I was in college.  Beneath His Silence by Hannah Linder lives up to the legacy of these suspense authors and was a riveting novel.

Ella Pemberton’s older sister Lucy married a mysterious man, Lord Sedgewick, in the north and died years ago.  Her father was haunted by Lucy’s death and spent the rest of his life trying to determine what happened to her. He is sure that Lord Sedgewick, Henry, is the cause of her death.  Ella decides to change her last name and apply for the governess position to her young nephew that she has never met.  As part of the household, will she be able to uncover what happened to her sister?  Is Lord Sedgewick the villain that she thinks he is?

I loved this novel.  It was a perfect blend of gothic suspense and romance.  I always love a good governess story.  It also had great Jane Eyre vibes to me, but it was its own unique story.  It also had shades of Pride and Prejudice with Lucy and Henry starting with misconceptions about each other and learning that maybe their first impressions were wrong.  They were great characters.  I loved how the plot developed with each chapter and it kept me guessing on the overall mystery.    The setting was wonderful in a remote estate by the sea.  It’s even better that this was author Hannah Linder’s debut novel.  I enjoyed it so much and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.

Beneath His Silence is a Christian novel and a clean read.  I liked how faith was introduced in the novel with Henry and Lucy both struggling with it.  There are sweet moments where Henry helps Lucy to find her faith.

Favorite Quote:

“In her moments of greatest despair, she would return to this view.  She would open her heart to the beauty, tranquility, and brightness of the endless waves.”

Review Copy from Barbour Publishing as part of the Austenprose Book Tour.  Thank-you! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

 

QUICK FACTS

·       Title: Beneath His Silence

·       Author: Hannah Linder

·       Genre: Historical Suspense, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction

·       Publisher: ‎Barbour Publishing (November 1, 2022)

·       Length: (320) pages

·       Format: Trade paperback, eBook, & audiobook 

·       ISBN: 978-1636094366

·       Tour Dates: October 31 – November 13, 2022

 

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Will Seeking Justice Lead to Her Own Demise?
 
A Gothic-Style Regency Romance from a Promising Young Author
 
Second daughter of a baron—and a little on the mischievous side—Ella Pemberton is no governess. But the pretense is a necessity if she ever wishes to get inside of Wyckhorn Manor and attain the truth. Exposing the man who killed her sister is all that matters.
 
Lord Sedgewick knows there’s blood on his hands. Lies have been conceived, then more lies, but the price of truth would be too great. All he has left now is his son—and his hatred. Yet as the charming governess invades his home, his safe cocoon of bitterness begins to tear away.
 
Could Ella, despite the lingering questions of his guilt, fall in love with such a man? Or is she falling prey to him—just as her dead sister?

 

BOOK TRAILER

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jRejDwS4tc

 

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR HANNAH LINDER

https://austenprose.com/2022/10/10/an-exclusive-interview-with-hannah-linder-author-of-beneath-his-silence/

 

ADVANCE PRAISE

·       "Fast-paced danger and suspense from an exciting newcomer to Regency fiction."— Julie Klassen, award-winning author of A Castaway in Cornwall

 

·       "A strong story of loss and forgiveness, resentment surrendered to faith, and the mercy of God. Readers will enjoy this turbulent mystery with a smile-worthy ending."— Kristen Heitzmann, Christy Award-winning author of Secrets and The Breath of Dawn

 

·       "This book has everything I love...a dark and broody hero, a spunky heroine on a mission, and a deeply delicious creepy manor home. Beneath His Silence is a rather gothic tale set in Regency England, filled with plenty of intrigue, danger, and romance to make for a very satisfying read."— Michelle Griep, Christy Award-winning author of Lost in Darkness

 

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

 

AUTHOR BIO

Hannah Linder

resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments--piano, guitar, and ukulele--songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse.

 

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS