Deadly Pursuit by Irene Hannon

by | Sep 10, 2011 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Law Enforcement, Romance

MY REVIEW:

Although Deadly Pursuit is the second book in the Guardians of Justice series it is quite able to stand on its own. This installment features Alison Taylor whose older brother Jake was featured in the first novel, Fatal Judgment. Jake and their other brother Cole make frequent appearances in Deadly Pursuit but their history is not essential to the story. I am looking forward to the next installment that I expect to feature Cole. Can’t wait to see what happens!

Deadly Pursuit is a page-turner that kept me on the edge of my seat. The plot began slowly with Alison’s receipt of strange phone calls and but the suspense gradually escalated to a dramatic conclusion. One particularly gruesome incident totally upped the danger level for Alison. The action and suspense is tempered by the growing romance between Alison and Cole’s friend and associate, police detective Mitch Morgan, a former Navy Seal who dedicates himself to Alison’s protection and finding her tormentor before it’s too late.

A skillfully crafted plot, three dimensional characters, and plenty of action and suspense laced with unexpected twists and surprises makes Deadly Pursuit a book that should please most suspense fans. A spiritual theme is also interwoven unobtrusively throughout the narrative.  There are a few very intense scenes so the very squeamish should be warned.

This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller
from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Award-Winning Author Delivers Edge-Of-Your-Seat Romantic Thrill Ride

Bestselling author Irene Hannon returns with the second novel in her “Guardians of Justice” series, Deadly Pursuit (ISBN: 978-0-8007-3457-2, $14.99, 352 pages, September). Hannon is the recipient of several high honors in her literary genre. As Library Journal has stated, “RITA Award winner Hannon is a master at character development.”

Alison Taylor is a young, single social worker recovering from a serious accident and a broken relationship, kept busy by her demanding job and her faithful canine companion, Bert. But when her police-detective brother  pushes her into a blind date with his new colleague, ex-Navy SEAL Mitch Morgan,  she’s not sorry—and neither is Mitch. When she begins to receive anonymous calls and threatening gifts, however, their relationship shifts into professional mode as well.  And as Mitch works to protect the woman who is fast stealing his heart, he can only pray they’ll find her tormentor before the man’s game turns deadly.

Once again, Hannon delivers an accelerating thrill ride that will keep readers up late into the night.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Irene Hannon is the author of more than 35 novels, including the CBA bestsellers Against All Odds, An Eye for an Eye, In Harm’s Way and Fatal Judgment. Her books have been honored with the coveted RITA Award from Romance Writers of America (she’s a five-time finalist), the HOLT Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier award, and two Reviewer’s Choice Awards from Romantic Times Book Reviews magazine. She lives in Missouri. For more information about Irene and her books, visit her website at www.irenehannon.com.

To Have and to Hold by Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller

by | Sep 7, 2011 | Books, Historical, Romance, Southern

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
To Have and to Hold
Bethany House (September 1, 2011)
by
Tracie Peterson
and
Judith Miller

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 85 novels. She received her first book contract in November, 1992 with Barbour Publishings’ Heartsong Presents. She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership’s vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row. In 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers to co-write a series with author Judith Pella. Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers. She teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests. Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family–especially her three grandchildren–Rainy, Fox and Max.

Judith Miller’s first novel, Threads of Love, was conceived when she was commuting sixty miles to work each day. She wanted to tell the story of a pioneer girl coming to Kansas and the faith that sustained her as she adjusted to a new life. Through a co-worker, she was directed to Tracie Peterson who, at that time, worked down the hall from her. Having never met Tracie, Judith was totally unaware of her writing career, but God intervened. The rest is, as they say, history. Since that first encounter many years ago, Judith has been blessed with the publication of numerous books, novellas and a juvenile fiction book. Joyously, she and Tracie had the opportunity to develop a blessed friendship. In fact, they have co-authored several series together, including The Bells of Lowell, the Lights of Lowell and The Broadmoor Legacy.
ABOUT THE BOOK:

When Audrey Cunningham’s father proposes that they move to Bridal Veil Island, where he grew up, she agrees, thinking this will help keep him sober and close to God. But they arrive to find wealthy investors buying up land to build a grand resort on the secluded island–and they want the Cunninghams’ acreage.

Contractor Marshall Graham can’t imagine why the former drinking buddy of his deceased father would beckon him to Bridal Veil Island. And when Boyd Cunningham asks him to watch over Audrey, Marshall is even more confused. He has no desire to be saddled with caring for this fiery young woman who is openly hostile toward him. But when Audrey seems to be falling for another man–one who has two little girls Audrey adores–Marshall realizes she holds more of his heart than he realized. Which man will Audrey choose? And can she hold on to her ancestral property in the face of overwhelming odds?

If you would like to read the first chapter of To Have and to Hold, go HERE.

Learn more about Tracie and her books on her Website.

Learn more about Judith and her books on her Website.

MY REVIEW:
Summoned by Boyd Cunningham, an old friend of his deceased father, Marshall Graham reluctantly accepts a position overseeing the construction of a new exclusive resort for the wealthy on Bridal Veil Island. Both Marshall and Boyd’s daughter Audrey share unhappy memories as a result of their fathers’ alcoholism. In fact, Audrey believes that Marshall shares his father’s weakness and wants nothing to do with him. As time passes Marshall proves himself to be an honorable man and Audrey gradually begins to trust him. Despite numerous misunderstandings the pair find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other. Delays, mishaps, and apparent sabotage plague the construction site and a sense of danger increases daily. Marshall attempts to find answers to the disruptions and Audrey’s efforts to help soon places her at risk.

Set in post Civil War Georgia on the idyllic fictional island of Bridal Veil, To Have and to Hold is a captivating tale filled with remarkable characters. Supporting cast includes one feisty, larger-than-life, shotgun wielding, elderly Aunty Thora who has never gotten over the “War of Northern Aggression”. She adds a touch of levity throughout the book. Vivid setting descriptions cause the reader to almost feel the sticky humidity and southern breezes among the live oaks of the island. A well paced plot is filled with drama, action, touches of mystery and suspense and a satisfying romance. A spiritual lesson primarily about trusting the Lord is woven unobtrusively throughout the narrative.

To Have and to Hold is just one more example why both Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller are longtime favorite authors of mine. If you enjoy historical romance or books about the south, To Have and to Hold should be on your to-read list.

Attracted to Fire by DiAnn Mills

by | Sep 7, 2011 | Books, Law Enforcement, Romance, Suspense

MY REVIEW:

 Attracted to Fire is another of DiAnn Mills riveting c0ntemporary novels that feature various branches of law enforcement. In this one, the primary characters Meghan Connor and Ash Zinders are special agents in the Secret Service. The pair meets when they are both assigned to protect the Vice President’s daughter as she once again goes through drug and alcohol rehab because of repeated threats to her life.

Because of past events, hard-nosed Ash has no use for female agents on his team and is unhappy with Meghan’s assignment. As dangerous incidents escalate, Meghan demonstrates her skill, insight, and dedication time and again. Not only does Ash begin to change his mind about her value to the team but begins to view her in an even more personal light.

With expertly developed plot and characters, Attracted to Fire kept me turning the pages. The story contained ample action, danger, suspense, and drama to hold my interest and the romantic elements were an added bonus. Twists and surprises abound. Although the person behind the threats is revealed to the reader fairly early in the narrative, it is still interesting to learn how the agents finally solve the identity of the culprit and accomplices.

I recommend Attracted to Fire as well as the other novels of DiAnn Mills.

This book was provided for review by Tyndale and NetGalley.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Special Agent Meghan Connors’ dream of one day protecting the president of the United States is about to come true. Only one assignment stands in her way. After the vice president’s rebellious daughter is threatened, Meghan is assigned to her protective detail on a secluded ranch in West Texas. Unfortunately, working with Special Agent in Charge Ash Zinders may be as tough as controlling her charge. Ash has a reputation for being critical and exacting, and he’s also after the same promotion as Meghan. But when the threats escalate and security on the ranch is breached, it becomes clear this isn’t the work of a single suspect—it’s part of a sophisticated plan that reaches deeper and higher than anyone imagined. And only Ash and Meghan can put the pieces together before it’s too late.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Award-winning author DiAnn Mills launched her career in 1998 with the publication of her first book. Currently she has over fifty books in print and has sold over 1.5 million copies.

DiAnn believes her readers should “Expect an Adventure.” She is a fiction writer who combines an adventuresome spirit with unforgettable characters to create action-packed novels.

Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA Bestseller Lists. Her books have won placements through American Christian Fiction Writer’s Book of the Year Awards 2003 – 2008 and a Carol Award finalist in 2010. She is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader’s Choice award for 2005, 2007, and 2010, a Christy Awards finalist in 2008, a finalist for the RITA Award in 2010, and winner of the Christy Award in 2010.

DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers. She is also a member of the Christian Writer’s Guild, Romance Writers of America’s Faith, Hope and Love, and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is the Craftsman Mentor for Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild.

She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas.

Learn more about DiAnn and her books on her

A Whisper of Peace by Kim Vogel Sawyer

by | Sep 5, 2011 | Alaska, Books, Historical, Romance

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Whisper of Peace
Bethany House (September 1, 2011)
by
Kim Vogel Sawyer
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

 

Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of fifteen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women’s fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and numerous grandchildren.

 

 

 

 

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Ostracized by her tribe because of her white father, Lizzie Dawson lives alone in the mountains of Alaska, practicing the ways of her people even as she resides in the small cabin her father built for her mother. She dreams of reconciling with her grandparents to fulfill her mother’s dying request, but she has not yet found a way to bridge the gap that separate her from her tribe.

Clay Selby has always wanted to be like his father, a missionary who holds a great love for the native people and has brought many to God. Clay and his stepsister, Vivian, arrive in Alaska to set up a church and school among the Athbascan people. Clay is totally focused on this goal…until he meets a young, independent Indian woman with the most striking blue eyes he’s ever seen.

But Lizzie is clearly not part of the tribe, and befriending her might have dire consequences for his mission. Will Clay be forced to choose between his desire to minister to the natives and the quiet nudging of his heart?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Whisper of Peace, go HERE.
Learn more about Kim and her books on her Website.

The Survivor by Shelley Shepard Gray

by | Sep 1, 2011 | Amish, Books, Romance

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Survivor
Avon Inspire; Original edition (August 30, 2011)
by
Shelley Shepard Gray
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Shelley Shepard Gray is the beloved author of the Sisters of the Heart series, including Hidden, Wanted, and Forgiven. Before writing, she was a teacher in both Texas and Colorado. She now writes full time and lives in southern Ohio with her husband and two children. When not writing, Shelley volunteers at church, reads, and enjoys walking her miniature dachshund on her town’s scenic bike trail.

Check out Shelley’s Facebook Fan page

 

 

 

 

ABOUT THE BOOK:

One of today’s most beloved authors of inspirational Christian fiction, Shelley Shepard Gray completes her acclaimed Families of Honor series with The Survivor—a poignant and beautiful story of love and faith in a small Amish community. Delving once more into the lives of these devout and fascinating folk, as she did in her popular Sisters of the Heart and Seasons of Sugarcreek novels, Gray tells the story of a young Amish woman who has survived the ravages of cancer, but now longs for the love of the one man who can heal her lonely heart. Like Beverly Lewis, Wanda Brunstetter, and Cindy Woodsmall, Shelley Shepard Gray introduces readers to characters they will never forget as she masterfully depicts a world of simple living, abiding faith, and honest emotions.

If you would like to read the first chapter excerpt of The Survivor, go HERE.
Learn more about Shelley and her books on her Website.

MY REVIEW:

The third book in Gray’s Families of Honor series, The Survivor features Mattie Lapp, a young Amish woman who has battled cancer and has indeed survived. As she regains her strength and her life begins to return to normal, Mattie’s heart desire is to find love, marry and have children. But Mattie has to wonder if it is presumptuous for her to expect another miracle. So far she has not met a man who can compete with her very best friend Graham but they have been friends for so long Mattie fears that he cannot see her in any other role. Graham has his own problems, he has been falsely accused of fathering a child and the entire town is talking about it and judging him harshly.

The Survivor brings old friends from the first two books back for a visit. New babies, new friends, and new romance fill its pages. With tragedies and triumphs the story has both highs and lows but as can always be expected, everything works out in the end. Graham’s young sister Katie adds her own brand of humor as in the previous novels. The Survivor ties up the series nicely with happy endings for more than one couple.

If you enjoy Amish fiction, The Survivor and the previous books of the Families of Honor series are must reads.

Blue Skies Tomorrow by Sarah Sundin

by | Aug 28, 2011 | Books, Historical, Military, Romance, WWII

MY REVIEW:

Sarah Sundin’s captivating novel Blue Skies Tomorrow is a fitting conclusion for her Wings of Glory series. Taking place on American soil, an English Air Force base and in the war torn fields and skies of Germany, this story plumbs the depths of human emotions. It reveals the masks people wear as they endeavor to keep hidden the secrets of their lives.

Helen Carlisle, a young war widow with a small son, has managed to hide the truth about her troubled marriage in order to protect her son. When forced to move in with her in-laws, she soon realizes just how deep the secrets have been buried.

Ray Novak, an Air Force trainer finds himself reassigned to a position in “supply” because the trainer jobs should be for the heroes who have actually flown in combat. Although all he really wants to do is be a pastor, he soon feels that he is less than a man because he is not actively involved in fighting the enemy.

Helen and Ray renew their acquaintance after many years. Although Ray’s memories of Sarah are from when she was little more than a child, he soon realizes that he cares deeply for her. Unfortunately, their past intrudes and the two end up oceans apart.

Blue Skies Tomorrow is a page turner that is filled with action, suspense, and romance. It had characters I loved, characters I despised, and a couple I wanted to shake some sense in. It was fun to renew acquaintances with characters from the first two books of the series. Although dead, Helen’s husband managed to control her life for much of the book. Although there were many crooks and turns, the finale was satisfying. I won’t say more because I fear spoiling the story for other readers.

If you enjoy historical fiction, especially that set during World War II, be sure to pick up Blue Skies Tomorrow and the first two books of the Wings of Glory series. They are all excellent.

 

This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

War Widow Fights The Past, American Pilot Fights For The Future

Award-Winning Author Delivers an Emotion-Packed,

Gripping Tale of War, Intrigue and Love

 

The country is still at war in Blue Skies Tomorrow (ISBN: 978-0-8007-3423-7, $14.99, 448 pages, August 2011) by award-winning author Sarah Sundin. It is 1944 and America longs for the war to be over so their boys can come home. This war has taken too many lives and made too many widows, orphans, and broken hearts. However, the homeland continues to pull together and buy bonds to support the troops, and Helen Carlisle has become the town’s war widow heroine. Doing her part with her son, she faithfully appears at community events asking people to support the troops. But deep down she is troubled. How much longer can she do this? Is she living a lie? Was her dead husband a hero? How can she live with the past?

Lt. Ray Novak prefers to follow his calling into ministry rather than the cockpit. But his current position offers him the luxury of a personal life since he is stateside training B-17 pilots. His interest in Helen, the young war widow, grows, but he knows she is hiding a painful past under a frenzy of volunteer work. Ray is called to fly a European combat mission at the peak of the air war. Their romance is tense because Helen is afraid, but Ray cannot help because he is in Europe. As Helen tries to make ends meet and confronts the past, Ray encounters a deadly enemy of his own. Will they find the courage to face their challenges? Will the truth come out? Will hope and redemption ring true for Helen?

The great era of World War II in Blue Skies Tomorrow is brought to life by Sundin in this emotion-packed novel.

 

Sarah Sundin received the 2011 Writer of the Year Award from the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, and her second novel, A Memory Between Us, is a finalist for an Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award.  She is the author of A Distant Melody and A Memory Between Us. Her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England during WWII. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children. For more interesting information about Sarah visit: sarahsundin.com