Murder for the Time Being by Joanie Bruce



MY REVIEW:

There is a good bit going on in “Murder for the Time Being” which begins with a prologue that provides a bit of background about Lexi and her family. It did take me just awhile to figure out the connection but it clicked for me fairly quickly. The actual story begins with Lexi and her mom being caught in the middle of a bank robbery and the plot picks up its pace from that point on.

The novel contains a large number of characters, many of whom are not exactly who they appear to be – even some of the primary ones. Determined to discover who was behind the bank robbery and whether they were also involved in repeated attempts to kidnap her, Lexi reluctantly joins forces with Drew Sheffield, the town’s assistant undertaker. The danger continues to ramp up and clues are confusing. Are all the events connected to the robbery or is someone from Lexi’s or Drew’s past also involved?

Strong characters, exciting suspense, a difficult to solve mystery, a touch of romance, and steadfast faith combine to make this one riveting book. I enjoyed the way the author brought everything together so perfectly that it was difficult for me to guess how it would turn out. To top it off, there were more than one happy surprises near the end. You can call me a satisfied reader.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

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“You’ll pay for this. I’ll get you both.”

Computer expert Lexi Wynn is frightened. Someone is after her, but she doesn’t know why. Is it because of her past or because she was thrust into a deadly bank robbery and might identify the ones responsible? Escaping a failed kidnapping attempt and not sure who to trust, she hopes her specialized skills with computers might flush out the name of the killer. When a tall, dark, and handsome stranger rams into her truck with the hearse he’s driving and puts his life in danger to save hers, can she ignore the attraction she feels for him to concentrate on the killers? Or is God the only one who can save her now?

Drew Sheffield is irritated when a cute lady stops abruptly in front of him and he plows into the back of her pickup. After their initial confrontation, flashbacks of honeysuckle and sassy green eyes linger in his thoughts. When Lexi is threatened, he steps in to help the feisty young woman, in spite of agonizing over a past relationship.

Can Lexi and Drew forget the tragedies of the past and embrace the feelings between them or will ghostly memories snub out the promise of a future together?

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Joanie has a strong passion for reading, and her love for books with nail-biting suspense, inspires her to write contemporary suspense books. Thankful that God has given her the ability to write from her home in the country, she strives to use that opportunity to honor Him in all of her writing. Joanie and her husband, Ben, live in a country home near Madison, Georgia, right in the middle of a pasture full of beef cows. There they raised and home schooled their three children. She enjoys cooking, taking long walks, painting oil portraits, and caring for their home in the country.

GUEST POST FROM JOANIE BRUCE:

Have you ever been devastated by a certain event in your life, and later it turned out to the best thing that ever happened to you? That’s what happened to Lexi Wyn in this book, “Murder for the Time Being.” Something unthinkable happened to her family, but in the end, it changes Lexi’s life forever and introduces her to the love of her life.

In this story, both Lexi and Drew have things in their past that discourage them from seeking a lasting relationship. However, God has a plan for them both, and through His Divine engineering, they are thrown together in circumstances that nurture a growing appreciation and affection for each other.

This book was fun to write because I anchored the story in my sweet little town of Madison, Georgia. I wasn’t raised in Madison, but I’ve called it home for much longer than any other place I’ve ever lived. While growing up in the big city of Memphis, Tennessee, I had definite plans for my future. All I ever wanted was to “marry a country boy and live in the country.” The Lord heard the desires of my heart and gave me what I wanted … a country boy, born and raised here in Morgan County on a dairy farm.

After we married, I adopted Madison as my home, and I love it so much that I wanted to feature some of the fun spots in Madison as the backdrops for the scenes in my books. I hope when you read through the pages of my book, you will get an idea of what a sweet little town Madison is and enjoy reading about Lexi and Drew and how they let God guide them in discovering that murder CAN be “for the Time Being.”

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GIVEAWAY:

To celebrate her tour, Joanie is giving away a Kindle Fire!! Click below to enter.
Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/b291

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Justice Delayed by Patricia Bradley



MY REVIEW:

I have previously enjoyed Patricia Bradley’s suspense novels so I was excited to have the chance to read and review her latest, especially because it is set in Memphis, a city I have lived near my entire life. As expected, it was fun reading about and being familiar with various places in the story. Details all seemed to be fairly accurate – nothing stood out to me as mistaken. I especially liked how a character referred to the University of Memphis as Memphis State, something many locals of the older generation tend to do. Old habits die hard you know!

The story itself was an interesting one with a strong plot and characters. It was easy to understand Andi’s reluctance to believe that the man convicted of killing her sister was innocent. I could also sympathize with her mixed emotions about the case and had to admire her desire to learn the truth despite her personal feelings. I also enjoyed the interaction between Andi and Will as they fought their feelings for each other while working together to find answers before it was too late.

The plot moved along at a steady rate with a few twists and surprises along the way. The investigation details were interesting and believable and I thought the level of suspense was perfect. I look forward to the rest of the Memphis Cold Case series for another look at our city through Patricia Bradley’s eyes.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

In one week, the wrong man will be executed for murder.
Let the chase for the real killer begin.

Eighteen years ago, TV crime reporter Andi Hollister’s sister was murdered. The convicted killer sits behind bars, his execution date looming. But when a letter surfaces stating that the condemned didn’t do the crime, Detective Will Kincaide of the Memphis Cold Case Unit will stop at nothing to help Andi get to the bottom of it. After all, this case is personal: the man who confessed to the crime is Will’s cousin. Andi and Will must find the real killer before the wrong person is executed. But what can happen in only a week? Uncovering police corruption, running for your life, and, perhaps, falling in love?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Patricia Bradley is the author of Shadows of the Past, A Promise to Protect, Gone without a Trace, and Silence in the Dark. Bradley has been a finalist for the Genesis Award, winner of a Daphne du Maurier Award, and winner of a Touched by Love Award. Bradley is cofounder of Aiming for Healthy Families, Inc., and she is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. Bradley makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.

In the Shadow of Denali by Tracie Peterson & Kimberly Woodhouse



MY REVIEW:

I don’t think I’ve read a book by Tracie Peterson that I didn’t like and I have also learned that she and Kimberly Woodhouse make a dynamite writing team. “In the Shadow of Denali” is a historical romantic suspense that beautifully showcases their teamwork.

With a setting in the beautiful yet untamed wilderness at the base of the majestic Alaskan mountain Denali, the authors have brought their readers another thrilling and suspense filled tale. Their characters are down-to-earth and must depend on each other and their faith in order to survive the sinister plans of a depraved man. Historical facts and vivid descriptions provide a believable backdrop for this story of forgiveness and courage – a story that illustrates the old saying “the truth will set you free”.

I thoroughly enjoyed “In the Shadow of Denali” and will eagerly watch for the next book in The Heart of Alaska series.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

Their Future Depends on Unlocking the Secrets the Mountain Holds From the Past

Cassidy Ivanoff and her father, John, work at the new and prestigious Curry Hotel near the foot of Mount McKinley–Denali as it’s still called by the natives. John is the wilderness and exploration guide for the wealthy tourists while Cassidy works in the kitchen as Cook’s assistant. The entire staff buzzes with excitement during the busy days preparing for the President’s imminent visit. His historic trip to dedicate the new national park on his way to driving in the golden spike to officially complete the Alaska Railroad will be the beginning of a new era for all of them and place The Curry at the heart of Alaska.

Allan Brennan travels to the Curry Hotel to be an apprentice to the seasoned Alaska mountain guide, with hopes of discovering the truth about his father’s death on the mountain years earlier. His father’s business partner blames the guide for Henry Brennan’s untimely death, but Allan cannot be at peace until he knows for sure. He finds an unlikely ally in Cassidy, and as the two begin to look into the mystery, they suddenly find that things are much less clear, and much more dangerous, than either could ever imagine.

READ AN EXCERPT HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Photo Credit: ©Lissa Barber Photography

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 100 novels. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana. Learn more at www.traciepeterson.com.

Photo Credit: © Pauline Fortuna

Kimberley Woodhouse is a multipublished author of fiction and nonfiction. A popular speaker/teacher, she’s shared her theme of Joy Through Trials with over 150,000 people at more than a thousand venues across the country. She lives, writes, and homeschools with her husband of twenty-plus years and their two awesome teens live in Colorado. Connect with Kim at www.kimberleywoodhouse.com.

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Buried Memories by Carol J. Post



MY REVIEW:

I honestly do no know how the author was able to cram so much content between the covers of this relatively short novel! There is suspense – boy is there suspense! There is also a pretty good romance too. The romance and suspense are tied together nicely with some great characterization, an excellent plot, and plenty of faith.

I love stories in which old friends are reunited and fall in love especially when the hero is as well-rounded and supportive as Tyler. Of course Tyler is not without his own set of problems but I liked the way that he and Nicki helped each other overcome not only physical danger but deep seated emotional issues as well.

“Buried Memories” is a book you will want to read in one sitting. I know I didn’t want to put it down for even a minute. Carol J. Post is a pro when it comes to writing engaging romantic suspense. I know I want to read 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:

Forgotten Past

After her broken engagement, Nicki Jackson hoped her move to Cedar Key would give her a fresh start—instead she quickly learns someone’s out to destroy her. Are the attacks tied to her mother’s recently reopened murder case…or to the nightmares Nicki’s beginning to suspect are actually hidden memories? With the threats against her escalating, former soldier Tyler Brant vows to keep Nicki safe. He refuses to lose the woman who’s swiftly becoming more than a childhood crush. But when danger circles closer, is Nicki’s traumatic past better left forgotten…or are her memories the key to something far more sinister?

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.

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Fractured Memory by Jordyn Redwood



MY REVIEW:

“Fractured Memory” was a page-turner from the very beginning. Julia Galloway is recovering from a nearly successful attempt on her life but she cannot remember anything about it or the man who came so close to killing her. She also has no memory of the man who rescued her – a man determined to protect her from a new threat against her.

The fast paced plot was filled with one breath-holding scene after another with so many twists and turns that I had no idea how the mystery would ever be resolved. In the midst of all the suspense and danger, it was fun to watch the relationship grow between Eli and Julia even if she didn’t remember him at all.

I thoroughly enjoyed “Fractured Memory” and eagerly anticipate reading many more suspense novels by the immensely talented Jordyn Redwood.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by The Book Club Network.
A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

Shrouded Past

United States marshal Eli Cayne saved Julia Galloway’s life once…and he’s prepared to do it again. But his task would be easier if she could remember him—or the murderer who almost put her in an early grave and seems to be hunting her once more. To protect Julia from the latest threat against her life, Eli has to consider the possibility that he put an innocent man in jail. Julia has no memories of the serial killer called the Hangman, though, and no reason to trust Eli. But with the killer getting closer, she must work with Eli to confront her past—and the feelings growing between them.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jordyn Redwood is a pediatric ER nurse by day, suspense novelist by night. She pursued her dream of becoming an author by writing medical thrillers. She hosts Redwood’s Medical Edge, a blog devoted to helping authors write medically accurate fiction. Jordyn lives in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains with her husband, two beautiful daughters and one crazy dog. You can connect with Jordyn via her website at jordynredwood.com.

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Fatal Frost by Nancy Mehl

fatal-frost



MY REVIEW:

“Fatal Frost” is an intense and suspense filled novel that had me turning the pages well into the night. The story also features a romance that played a secondary role and did not interfere at all with the suspense.

Characters were well developed and their interaction was realistic. I especially enjoyed the tension between Mercy and Mark. The suspense built throughout the plot with danger constantly a threat. There was violence and death with one particularly heartbreaking scene but the author handled it as tastefully as possible while keeping it real. As much as I’d like to hide my head in the sand, events depicted in this novel are becoming more and more common in our world and we as readers need to be more aware.

Despite the sometimes disturbing events that took place, there were also positive ones and the bad guys received justice. A strong message of faith was woven subtly throughout the story which always makes me happy and I also liked how things developed between Mercy and Mark.

I enjoyed “Fatal Frost” immensely and am already looking forward to Nancy’s next novel.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.



ABOUT THE BOOK:

Following in her absentee father’s footsteps in a law enforcement career, U.S. Marshal Mercy Brennan has just recovered from being shot in the line of duty. And, unbeknownst to her, her father’s recent reappearance in her life has put her in the sights of St. Louis’s most powerful gang. Her boss assigns Deputy U.S. Marshal Mark St. Laurent–Mercy’s ex-boyfriend–to get her out of town until her safety can be guaranteed.

Unaware of the extent her boss and Mark have been keeping her in the dark, it isn’t until a freak ice storm strands them at a remote location and out of contact with the district office that the full severity of their situation becomes clear. As the storm worsens, the forces of nature combine with a deadly enemy to put them in great danger. Can they survive long enough for help to arrive–if help is even coming at all?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy MehlNancy Mehl is the author of twenty-one books, including the Road to Kingdom and Finding Sanctuary series. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson. Visit www.nancymehl.com to learn more.

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