by admin | Nov 25, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Romance, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I have read and enjoyed some of this author’s somewhat humorous romantic novels featuring dogs but I am uncertain if I have read one of her Love Inspired Suspense novels. “Cowboy Christmas Guardian” was completely different but in a very good way. In my opinion, Mentink’s ability to write such different genres so well is an indication of her giftedness.
I felt that her characters sprang to life on the pages of this book and they had my full attention as they worked out their differences and struggled to live out their lives as true Christians. As most of us know from experience, it is not always easy to walk the walk – it’s much simpler to tell others how they should behave. It was so easy to identify with Barrett when he was challenged by Shelby for doing that very thing.
Lots of action, danger, and suspense fill the pages of this novel with a few unexpected twists to keep readers engaged. The romance was evident but not in-your-face. I liked the natural way it developed without taking away from the suspense. I thought I had it all figured out but was in for one surprise at the end. I was right about the why but so wrong about who. I love it when that happens.
“Cowboy Christmas Guardian” is a riveting tale with a few breath-holding moments for this gal who would be terrified under similar circumstances. I hope I have awakened your curiosity enough that you will want to pick up your own copy.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Click to purchase
Someone is dead set on stopping Shelby Arroyo from doing her job: assessing mineral rights in a mine in gold country. But after rancher Barrett Thorn rescues her from an attack, the handsome widowed cowboy seems to feel responsible for her. That is, until he discovers she’s from the family that he’ll never forgive for his wife’s death. As the threats against Shelby escalate, cowboy honor and an unexpected attraction keep Barrett by her side, even at his own risk. And since Shelby won’t back down, Barrett must protect the brave, loyal woman he has no business falling for…a woman someone wants to kill by Christmas.
Click here to purchase your copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dana Mentink is a two time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a Holt Medallion winner. She is a national bestselling author of over thirty-five titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Harvest House. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with Papa Bear, Yogi, Boo Boo, a nutty terrier, a chubby box turtle and a feisty parakeet.
GUEST POST FROM DANA MENTINK:
Howdy, readers! I am thrilled to be bringing you this four book Gold Country Cowboys series that takes place in an area near and dear to my heart! My family and I have enjoyed many adventures in this amazing area, from exploring gold mines, to climbing through caverns, and soaking in the incredible history. As a matter of fact, we recently enjoyed a train trip on the historic V and T Railroad which took us past abandoned mines and even some active ones where people are engaged in modern day treasure hunting. California’s Gold Country is a fascinating place filled with secret treasures. I hope you will enjoy some wild adventures with four cowboy brothers who have some secrets of their own. God bless you all!
BLOG STOPS:
Cordially Barbara, November 16
Genesis 5020, November 16
Have A Wonderful Day, November 17
A Greater Yes, November 17
To Everything A Season, November 17
ASC Book Reviews, November 18
Splashes of Joy, November 18
History, Mystery & Faith, November 19
Red Headed Book Lady, November 19
Remembrancy, November 19
Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, November 20
Autism mom, November 20
Singing Librarian Books, November 21
Janices book reviews, November 21
Moments Dipped in Ink, November 22
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 22
New Horizon Reviews, November 23
Christian Author, J.E. Grace, November 23
Pause for Tales, November 24
Ashley’s Bookshelf, November 24
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 25
Cafinated Reads, November 25
Blogging With Carol, November 26
Daysong Reflections, November 26
Carpe Diem, November 27
Karen Sue Hadley, November 27
Babs Book Bistro, November 28
Bibliophile Reviews, November 28
Raining Butterfly Kisses, November 29
The Power of Words, November 29
GIVEAWAY:
In honor of her tour, Dana is giving away a copy of Cowboy Christmas Guardian in print or ebook, a horse scarf and a $25 Amazon gift card! Click the link below to enter!
https://promosimple.com/ps/c0d3
by admin | Nov 6, 2017 | Books, Christmas, Historical, Love Inspired, Romance
MY REVIEW:
In this heartwarming tale, a still grieving young widower feels obligated to take in an elderly couple and their grandson’s widow after their house is destroyed by fire. Although he has mostly isolated himself from others since his wife’s death, Oscar finds himself drawn to the family despite his determination to remain as disconnected as possible. What else could he do as he watches his young daughter blossom under their care.
“A Child’s Christmas Wish” is perfectly delightful book for the approaching holiday season. I loved all the characters from gruff Oscar to his lively daughter Liesl as well as each of the Amaker family. Filled with large doses of kindness, faith, and traditional Christmas celebrations, the story ended much too soon for me.
I have enjoyed many books by this author and this one was no exception. I would highly recommend adding it to your Christmas reading list.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A Baby for Christmas
The only Christmas gift Oscar Rabb’s four-year-old daughter prays for is one the widower can’t provide: a baby sibling. And when his neighbor’s house burns down, he’s willing to open his home to pregnant and widowed Kate Amaker and her in-laws—but not his heart. Even if his little girl’s convinced Kate’s unborn child is the answer to her wish.
Kate quickly sees the generous but aloof Oscar has little interest in growing closer to his houseguests. Still, she intends to make the coming Christmas a season to remember for his daughter. And as Oscar starts to open up to her, Kate can’t help picturing just how wonderful the holidays—and a future together—might be.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Erica Vetsch is a transplanted Kansan now residing in Minnesota. She loves history and romance, and is blessed to be able to combine the two by writing historical romances. Whenever she’s not immersed in fictional worlds, she’s the company bookkeeper for the family lumber business, mother of two, wife to a man who is her total opposite and soul-mate, and avid museum patron.
by admin | Oct 1, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
What could be more romantic than a Christmas wedding on a cruise ship? Sounds wonderful doesn’t it? Jordan Somerton and Amy Delgado who are serving as best man and maid of honor just want the week to end quickly because the tension between them is pretty high. A misunderstanding has left Jordan embarrassed and Amy unable to trust him. When Amy’s niece is kidnapped, everything goes from bad to worse and the two are forced to work together to rescue her and protect the ship’s passengers.
It doesn’t take very long for the suspense to get started in “Christmas Captive” and the action doesn’t stop until it reaches the end. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how Jordan and Amy put aside their differences to work together against a group of terrorists. There were some very creative scenes as they were forced to use their creativity to try and stop the bad guys without any weapons. There was one character who made me want to shake him but that just added another layer to the story. A combination of faith and determination served Jordan and Amy well and the crisis had a predictable yet satisfactory ending.
“Christmas Captive” was a great read that is perfect for anytime of the year even if it does take place at Christmas. A relatively short read, it would be perfect for a long winter evening by the fireside.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Litfuse Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
SABOTAGE AT SEA
On his cousin’s Christmas cruise wedding, navy SEAL Jordan Somerton anticipated having the typical best man duties—not facing down criminals boarding the ship. But when the luxury liner is infiltrated by men determined to kidnap the flower girl, he’s plunged into an unexpected mission. Maid of honor and DEA agent Amy Delgado hasn’t forgiven Jordan for a misunderstanding in their pasts. But with her young niece targeted, she must draw on Jordan’s skills as a protector. Signs point to an inside job. With a traitor in their midst, can they ensure that every passenger returns home safely for the holidays…even as they find love amid deepening danger?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Liz Johnson is the director of marketing for a Christian radio network. She finds time to write late at night and is a two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist. Liz makes her home in Tucson, AZ, where she enjoys going to the theater and spending time with her nieces and nephews. She’s happiest writing stories of true love with happy endings and shares about her adventures in writing at www.LizJohnsonBooks.com.
Save
by admin | Aug 31, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I am not ashamed to admit it – I really enjoy Love Inspired Suspense novels even if some consider mass market books to be inferior. I love the way the authors always seem to manage to create interesting characters with whom I can easily connect and also put together a suspense filled romance that keeps me on my toes until it ends. Once again Carol J. Post has met those goals.
It is bad enough when a former classmate is murdered at her ten-year high school reunion but it quickly becomes evident that someone wants a number of the victim’s friends to meet the same fate and that includes police officer Amber Kingston. She and Detective Caleb Lyon, another former classmate, work together to discover who is responsible before more classmates die. Will they solve the mystery on time?
“Reunited by Danger” is a fast-moving, suspense filled tale that I read in one sitting. With the perfect blend of suspense and romance the book is filled with unexpected twists and surprises around every corner and is enhanced by a strong message of faith. This Love Inspired Suspense novel was just the right choice for a relaxing yet entertaining evening. I definitely recommend it and this author’s other books.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
CALCULATED REVENGE
When a former classmate is murdered at Detective Caleb Lyons’s ten-year high school reunion, he knows the victim’s old group of friends are keeping secrets. That includes Cedar Key, Florida, police officer Amber Kingston. Back in school, Amber was headed for trouble, but now she’s as dedicated to the law as he is. As he works overtime to get the pretty cop to open up to him, Amber and her friends receive messages threatening payback for past deeds. And her friends keep dying…one by one. But protecting Amber and unmasking a murderer isn’t just the widowed detective’s shot at redemption—it’s his unexpected second chance at love.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
From medical secretary to court reporter to property manager to owner of a special events decorating company, Carol’s résumé reads as if she doesn’t know what she wants to be when she grows up. But one thing that has remained constant through the years is her love for writing. She currently pens fun and fast-paced inspirational romance and romantic suspense stories. Her books have been nominated for a RITA® award and an RT Reviewers’ Choice Best Book Award. Carol lives in sunshiny Central Florida with her husband, who is her own real-life hero, and writes her stories under the shade of the huge oaks in her yard. Besides writing, she works alongside her music minister husband singing and playing the piano. She enjoys sailing, hiking, camping—almost anything outdoors. Her two grown daughters and grandkids live too far away for her liking, so she now pours all that nurturing into taking care of a fat and sassy black cat and a highly spoiled dachshund.
Save
Save
by admin | Jul 1, 2017 | Books, Love Inspired, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
“Deep Waters” is the second novel I’ve read by Jessica Patch and it has been confirmed – I must read each and every one of her books. Not only does this author live in my general part of the country but she has a definite talent with words that make me want to keep turning the pages. Unfortunately that means I reach the end much too quickly and have to wait for her next book.
Character development and dialogue are nearly perfect as far as I’m concerned. An excellent balance of romance and suspense is relieved by a touch of humor, something I always appreciate. The plot moves at a quick pace with escalating danger and suspense as well as secrets and some surprising twists.
I particularly enjoyed learning more about sea turtles and the setting made me wish for another visit to the ocean. “Deep Waters” has everything I look for in a suspense novel and I would recommend it to those who enjoy good, clean suspense with a message of faith interwoven throughout the story.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Thirty feet underwater when her oxygen tank fails, Caley Flynn fears it’s been sabotaged—and she’ll be the next to die. Her intern’s already dead, her home breached and something’s amiss at her Florida marine-life rescue center…but no one believes she’s in danger. Except Shepherd Lightman. When Caley’s brother asked him to check on her, the marine turned security specialist hoped it would be a case of calming down a nervous veterinarian. But the threats are all too real. Rescuing Caley and remaining alive isn’t easy, but resisting his boss’s sister is where the real danger lies. Because with his heart in the balance, he’ll do whatever it takes to stop a killer who’s desperate to keep a secret hidden.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jessica R. Patch writes inspirational contemporary romance and romantic suspense. She is the author of the Seasons of Hope series and several Love Inspired Suspense novels including, Fatal Reunion, Protective Duty, Concealed Identity, and Final Verdict. When she’s not hunched over her laptop or going on adventurous trips in the name of research with willing friends, you can find her spending time with her family and collecting recipes to amazing dishes she’ll probably never cook. Jessica is represented by Rachel Kent of Books & Such Literary Management.
Save
Save
by admin | Mar 24, 2017 | Books, Love Inspired, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Jessica R. Patch is a new-to-me author but I can guarantee that I plan to read more of her books. I found her writing to be concise and intelligent with just the right blend of suspense, humor, and romance, with a large dose of faith mixed in. It’s also nice to know that she’s from my corner of the world.
The characters were perfect. I found both Beckett and Aurora to be people I would like to know, flawed but with great integrity. And the plot! Well, it was one that kept me on edge from beginning to end. There were so many twists and turns that I found it difficult to decide just who was at fault. An exciting read until the very end, “Final Verdict” was the kind of book I love when reading suspense. As I said earlier, I will definitely be reading more by this author!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by the author. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
FATAL JUSTICE
When Aurora Daniels becomes the target of someone seeking their own twisted justice, Sheriff Beckett Marsh is the only one who can rescue her. As a public defender, Aurora has angered plenty of people in town—and in her past. And while Beckett constantly clashes with the feisty lawyer professionally, it’s his duty to protect and serve. Guarding her 24/7 is now his sole assignment. He may not have been able to save his fiancée from a dangerous felon, but he’ll do whatever it takes to keep Aurora alive. Even if working with her to catch and convict this ruthless killer puts his heart in the crosshairs.
Purchase a copy HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jessica R. Patch lives in the mid-south where she pens inspirational contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. When she’s not hunched over her laptop or going on adventurous trips in the name of research with willing friends, you can find her watching way too much Netflix with her family and collecting recipes to amazing dishes she’ll probably never cook.
Save
Save
