Book Corner News & Reviews: Women's Fiction

Showing posts with label Women's Fiction. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Women's Fiction Feature Review: Higher Love by Joanne Kukanza Easley

Today, I have a dramatic women's fiction novel to share in our book review spotlight. If you enjoy a complex family drama, Higher Love should be on your summer reading list! Learn about Higher Love and author Joanne Kukanza Easley, read my thoughts on the book, and be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.

Book Title:  HIGHER LOVE by Joanne Kukanza Easley
Category: Adult Fiction (18+), 360 pages
Genre:  Women's Literary Fiction
Publisher:  Red Boots Press
Release date:   May 2025
Content Rating:  PG-13 + M: Adult themes of alcoholism, underage drinking, underage sex

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About the Book

In 1986 Austin, Texas, sixteen-year-old Stephanie steps into sixty-two-year-old Lauren’s life, her uncanny resemblance cracking open a buried past. Claiming to be the daughter of the child Lauren gave up for adoption forty-five years ago, Stephanie upends Lauren’s life—already complicated by her remarriage to Brett after thirty-three years apart. Stung by her adoptive grandmother’s deception, Stephanie stays, her past of tragedy and self-harm forging a fragile bond with Lauren and Brett. When Stephanie’s trust fund evaporates, crushing her college dreams, Lauren sacrifices all to give her a future—only to face a bittersweet twist that echoes the past and changes everything. This heart-wrenching family drama delves into the enduring impact of secrets, the power of unconditional love, and the strength found in facing our pasts.

My Review

Higher Love Brings a Well-Done Family Drama to Readers. The basis of the novel is not necessarily unique, but the way the author allows her characters to come to terms with the traumas of the past will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. With the chapters bringing views from Stephanie and Lauren, readers gain insights into the lives and experiences that the main characters bring to the novel. The emotions are complex, but the storyline feels believable, and the characters feel real and relatable.

Expect a Character-Driven Story. While there are some plot twists moving the story along, most of the novel focuses on the emotional journeys of the characters, both past and present. The characters are realistic, the emotions are very human and real--and the characters' raw, honest presentations shed light on the significance of family, forgiveness and healing.

Would I Recommend Higher Love by Joanne Kukanza Easley? I am not always a fan of women's fiction, but the intense complexity of this novel was thought-provoking, emotional and interesting. There are adult themes presented in the book, but this is a novel that older teens/young adults (as well as older readers) will find relatable and interesting. I enjoyed the author's writing style and the clear understanding of human nature and the long-lasting impacts of generational trauma that were presented throughout the novel. I would recommend it to fans of complex family dramas and heavier women's fiction.

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Meet the Author

Joanne Kukanza Easley, a retired registered nurse who worked in the cold, stark environment of operating rooms and the highly charged setting of psychiatric facilities, now resides in the Texas Hill Country. There, she crafts fiction centered on complex women of the twentieth century. Her debut novel, Sweet Jane, garnered multiple accolades, including the adult fiction prize at the Texas Author Project, and was a finalist for prestigious honors like the Sarton Award and the Eric Hoffer Award, among others. Her second book, Just One Look, was selected as a May 2022 Pulpwood Queen Book Club Pick. Her third novel, I’ll Be Seeing You, revisits characters from Sweet Jane. Her fourth novel, Higher Love, a continuation of her third, is slated for release in Spring 2025. Easley’s award-winning short stories and poetry have been featured in various anthologies.

connect with the author: website ~ X ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

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Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Angela Thompson 9:14 AM 1

Historical Fiction Spotlight: I'll Be Seeing You by Joanne Kukanza Easley

This morning, I have a historical fiction novel in our book spotlight! Learn about I'll be Seeing You by author Joanne Kukanza Easley and enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.

Book Title:  I'LL BE SEEING YOU by Joanne Kukanza Easley
Category: Adult Fiction (18+), 227 pages
Genre:  Literary Women's Historical Fiction
Publisher:  Red Boots Press
Release date:   September 2022
Content Rating:  PG-13 + M. Adult themes of alcoholism, miscarriage, promiscuity, some cursing

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About the Book

From Joanne Kukanza Easley, the multi-award-winning author of Sweet Jane and Just One Look, comes I’ll Be Seeing You—a raw, gripping saga of one woman’s wild ride through five decades, fueled by ambition, derailed by booze, and haunted by the past.

Lauren’s done with ranch life. Spotted by a modeling scout at the 1940 Fort Worth Stock Show Parade, she ditches Palo Pinto County for Manhattan’s glitz. But when her dream crashes, she drowns her sorrows in liquor and lovers. By twenty-four, she’s a widowed, divorced mess, hopping cities until Austin becomes her last stand. After a decade of chaos, she claws her way to sobriety and builds a thriving business, yet peace is still out of reach.

Then, in 1985, the past storms back: Brett, her third husband, wants to reconcile after thirty-three years apart. Reeling from old wounds, Lauren turns to Jane, her AA lifeline. The clock’s ticking—will she rewrite her story or let it burn?

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Read More from the Author

COMING MAY 2025!

Meet the Author

Her debut novel, Sweet Jane, garnered multiple accolades, including the adult fiction prize at the Texas Author Project, and was a finalist for prestigious honors like the Sarton Award and the Eric Hoffer Award, among others. Her second book, Just One Look, was selected as a May 2022 Pulpwood Queen Book Club Pick. Her third novel, I’ll Be Seeing You, revisits characters from Sweet Jane. Her fourth novel, Higher Love, a continuation of her third, is slated for release in Spring 2025. Easley’s award-winning short stories and poetry have been featured in various anthologies.

connect with the author: website ~ X ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

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Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Angela Thompson 6:14 AM 0

Suspense Review: Janie's Hope by S.R. Fabrico

This morning, I have a suspense novel from a series that I have read and loved in the past! Today, I am sharing my thoughts on Janie's Hope, the third book in S.R. Fabrico's Southport series. Check out the book and the series, read my thoughts, learn about the author & be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.

Book Title:  Janie's Hope - Book 3 in the Southport Series by S.R. Fabrico
Category:  Adult Fiction (18+), 276 pages
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Publisher:  S.R. Fabrico
Release date: Feb 11, 2025
Content Rating:  R: There is one cracked door sex scene and a few foul words.

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About the Book

Janie’s Hope is the captivating conclusion of the Southport Series, set in a charming small town where secrets run deep and love has the power to heal even the deepest wounds. Janie, a strong neurodivergent heroine, has always felt like an outsider, grappling with her emotions and social awkwardness. Raised by a reclusive billionaire father, she yearns to break free from the confines of her sheltered life and discover her true self.

Her existence has been shaped by stories of her mother, Lizzie Levine, and the fleeting moments they shared in Southport. Eager to uncover her past, Janie is determined to follow in her mother’s footsteps, even as her father's warnings of danger loom large.

Enter Noah, the sweet and adorkable cinnamon roll with hidden abs and quiet confidence, who falls for Janie almost immediately, captivated by her fiery spirit. But hidden truths linger in the shadows, including Janie’s secret identity, complicating their growing connection.

In this emotional journey of self-discovery and love, Janie’s Hope will sweep you away into a world where second chances and found family collide, proving that sometimes, the strongest bonds are forged in the most unexpected ways.

With a captivating and engaging writing style, S.R. Fabrico draws you into an extraordinary tale, taking your emotions on a soaring journey alongside Janie. Whether you’re a fan of gripping suspense or heartwarming romance, the Southport Series is an absolute must-read. Don’t miss your chance to dive into a world brimming with passion, intrigue, and unforgettable moments.

My Review

"Janie’s Hope" Ends the Series Perfectly. I enjoyed every book in this series, and this one was no exception. It had been a while since I had read the previous books, and I read a lot, so I was a little out of the loop at the beginning--but, I was able to remember pieces and fill in the gaps as Hope (Janie) filled in the pieces on her own. While this could be read as a stand-alone with the reader learning about Hope's past along with the character, I think it's best to read in order as a series so that you don't feel that you've missed things along the way. Once the highlights of the previous books came back to me and the current story fell into place, I enjoyed this book just as much as the earlier ones and found that the ending fit perfectly.

Expect Characters to Love and A Story That You Won't Want to Leave. Hope finds family and love and fills in the pieces of her past as this series comes to an end. I am always a fan of dogs in books--and I loved DD's role in this story. Expect to become attached to the characters of Southport and to Hope's story as she finds a love interest and the keys to her past in the process. While the story finds complete resolution and ends as it should, the world created by the author is one that readers will be sad to leave.

Would I Recommend "Janie's Hope" by S.R. Fabrico? This is an easy-to-read story with suspenseful moments, a little romance, and heartwarming family connections that bring a series to its end. If you enjoy family dramas with suspenseful elements and character growth, I recommend this entire series. I recommend it, especially to fans of women's fiction who enjoy family-focused stories and secrets from the past.

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Meet the Author

S.R. Fabrico is an award-winning author whose literary talents have captivated readers worldwide. With her debut novel, The Secrets We Conceal, and her second novel, Call Her Janie, she has emerged as a rising star in the literary realm.

With a remarkable 25-plus-year career in business, marketing, and sports, S.R. Fabrico brings a unique perspective to her writing. As a World Champion Dance Coach and esteemed speaker, she infuses her stories with passion and insight.

Residing in Tennessee with her husband and children, S.R. Fabrico continues to create captivating narratives that will transport you to new and extraordinary worlds. Prepare to be enchanted by her exceptional storytelling prowess.

In addition to her passion for writing novels, she has published a series of sports journals and a journal for women. She believes that journaling is good for the soul.

connect with the author:
website ~ newsletter ~ X/twitter ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

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Monday, February 3, 2025

Angela Thompson 9:55 AM 0

Women's Fiction Book Release Blitz: Love's Home Run by Judith Keim

This morning, I have a romantic women's fiction novel in our book release blitz. Check out Love's Home Run and learn about author Judith Keim!

Romantic Women's Fiction

Date Published: February 3, 2025

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About the Book

Love isn’t a game… or is it?

Melissa Hendrickson is tired of being a good sport, one of the guys. She wants to find love and settle down in Lilac Lake with the man of her dreams. She thinks she’s found the man, but he doesn’t know she exists. After she runs into Ross Roberts, her next door neighbor and former professional baseball player, during a charity softball game, he requires her help. She’s more than eager to make amends for causing him to have knee surgery. Then, a fire destroys her family restaurant and her job as chef there. She’s forced to think about a lot of changes in her life, including finding the right man for her.

A spinoff book from the Lilac Lake Inn series, a sweet second-chance, small-town romance. Another of Judith Keim’s books with strong women facing challenges and finding love and happiness along the way.

Buy the Book

About the Author

Judith Keim, A USA Today Best-Selling Author, is a hybrid author who both has a publisher and self-publishes. Ms. Keim writes heart-warming novels about women who face unexpected challenges, meet them with strength, and find love and happiness along the way, stories with heart. Her best-selling books are based, in part, on many of the places she's lived or visited and on the interesting people she's met, creating believable characters and realistic settings her many loyal readers love.

She enjoyed her childhood and young-adult years in Elmira, New York, and now makes her home in Boise, Idaho, with her husband and their adorable dachshund, Wally, and other members of her family.

While growing up, she loved the idea of writing stories from a young age. Books were always present, being read, ready to go back to the library, or about to be discovered. All in her family shared information from the books in general conversation, giving them a wealth of knowledge and vivid imaginations.

Ms. Keim loves to hear from her readers and appreciates their enthusiasm for her stories.

Connect with the Author

Author Website

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Thursday, October 19, 2023

Angela Thompson 3:50 PM 1

Women's Fiction Spotlight: Beverly Bonnefinche is Dead by Kristen Seeley

Today, I have a book to share that is perfect for your book club! Check out Beverly Bonnefinche is Dead, learn about author Kristen Seeley and enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post!

Book Title:  Beverly Bonnefinche is Dead by Kristen Seeley
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +), 388 pages
Genre:  Women's / Book Club Fiction
Publisher:  Rising Action Publishing
Release date: September 5, 2023
Content Rating:  PG + M Please review content warnings in blurb.

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Author's Note: Books should always bring pleasure, and never cause harm, for this reason if you have any content that may be harmful to your mental wellbeing, I encourage you to visit https://mariestill.com/contentwarnings to ensure Beverly’s story is one you wish to read.

Please know that you are never alone. If you are in crisis or in need of someone to speak with, please reach out for help.

Below are the crisis lines. US readers dial 988 UK readers, text SHOUT to 85258 Canadian readers (youth) call 1-888-668-6810 or text WELLNESS to 686868; Canadian readers (adults) call 1-866-585-0445 or text WELLNESS to 741741. Wherever you are, there are people who care, I encourage you to reach out when in need.

Beverly’s story, more than any of my other stories, is a personal one. As a society we get physicals annually, we talk openly about physical diseases, and support those battling them. Mental health isn’t treated with the same care and openness. While we have taken great strides, there is still more work to do. Preventative mental health is a lifesaver. You deserve to be happy just like you deserve to be physically and mentally healthy.

Each person’s journey with a mental health crisis or disorder is different. This story, while completely fictional, has been my way of processing one of the hardest battles I’ve had to fight.

Please show empathy for each other, you never know what demons someone is fighting internally, or if they are fighting a battle for someone they love very much.

Take care of yourself and those around you. No matter how different and unique your mind is, you, like Beverly, are perfect the way you are.

XOXO, Marie (aka Kristen Seeley)

"Beautifully written, Seeley delivers a brave and poignant tale that is unforgettable." - Kim Michele Richardson, NYT bestselling author of The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek series.

About the Book
Socially awkward, anxiety-riddled Beverly Bonnefinche only loves three things in life: her parents, books, and a homeless man named Bill. Without them, the only way Beverly manages to get by each day is with the help of a peculiar coping mechanism that allows her to dissolve her feelings. Yet everything changes for Beverly when she meets Henry, a persistent, friendly man who sees something in Beverly most people have missed. As their relationship develops, despite her best intentions, Beverly soon finds herself stepping outside of her carefully controlled life and forging new friendships.

It’s only when a series of twists and turns threatens to unravel her new life, and her mind, that Beverly must determine if she’s got it in her to stop trudging through life—and finally start living it.

Emotional, witty, and uplifting, Beverly Bonnefinche Is Dead is an unforgettable story of love, loss, friendship, and what it means to ultimately find the courage to be who you are.

Content Warnings: stillbirth, pregnancy loss, mental health, attempted suicide, suicidal ideation

Buy the Book

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Target ~ Indigo ~ BAM
BookBub ~ Audible
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About the Author

Lover of books, Kristen spends her time overly caffeinated in front of her computer in the Tampa Bay area with her husband and four children.

Kristen's debut novel, Beverly Bonnefinche is Dead was selected by Barnes & Noble as a Top Indie Favorites August/September 2023 Kristen Seeley is the pen name of Marie Still (which she writes suspense/thrillers under)

connect with the author: website ~ newsletter ~ X ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ tiktok
~ pinterest ~ goodreads

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Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Angela Thompson 9:04 AM 0

Women's Fiction Spotlight: Love by Design by Judith Keim

This morning, I have a women's fiction novel in our book spotlight! Check out Love By Design and learn about author Judith Keim.

The Lilac Lake Inn Series, Book 1

Romantic Women’s Fiction

Date Published: August 22, 2023

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About the Book

Keeping a family promise can be the beginning of a whole new life for everyone in town...

Danielle “Dani” Gilford eagerly accepts her share of the gift of a cottage on the property of the Lilac Lake Inn in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Her grandmother, Gigi, has decided to sell the inn after realizing it’s too difficult to run as she ages and with rising taxes. Dani and her two sisters, Whitney and Taylor, must renovate and maintain the cottage and live there at least six months of each year, as a means of helping Gigi keep a vow to hold onto as much of the family property as possible.

The first person that Dani meets when she returns to the lake is Brad Collister, who, with his brother, has been hired to renovate the inn for the new owners. His brother, Aaron, is as attractive as Brad, but life with the brothers is complicated. Brad is still grieving for his wife, who died two years ago from cancer and Aaron’s interest lies with the business. And after working in Boston at an architectural design firm where the men in the office do everything they can to keep her from getting recognition for the work she does, the last thing Dani is looking for is a man. But the little town of Lilac Lake is full of interesting people, and surprises await Dani as she and her sisters work together to keep a promise to their grandmother, and Dani discovers new possibilities for herself about life and love.

Another of Judith Keim’s series books celebrating love and families, strong women meeting challenges, and clean women’s fiction with a touch of romance—beach reads for all ages with a touch of humor, satisfying twists, and happy endings.

About the Author

Judith Keim, A USA Today Best Selling Author, is a hybrid author who both has a publisher and self-publishes. Ms. Keim writes heart-warming novels about women who face unexpected challenges, meet them with strength, and find love and happiness along the way, stories with heart. Her best-selling books are based, in part, on many of the places she's lived or visited and on the interesting people she's met, creating believable characters and realistic settings her many loyal readers love.

She enjoyed her childhood and young-adult years in Elmira, New York, and now makes her home in Boise, Idaho, with her husband and their two dachshunds, Winston and Wally, and other members of her family.

While growing up, she was drawn to the idea of writing stories from a young age. Books were always present, being read, ready to go back to the library, or about to be discovered. All in her family shared information from the books in general conversation, giving them a wealth of knowledge and vivid imaginations.

Ms. Keim loves to hear from her readers and appreciates their enthusiasm for her stories.

Connect with the Author

Buy the Book