by admin | Sep 18, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Legal, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Because I have read and enjoyed several of the author’s self-published novels, I was excited to see that she received a contract from one of my favorite publishers, Bethany House. Rachel Dylan is an extremely talented writer and deserves the attention of a major publisher. “Deadly Proof” is her first book published by Bethany House and it lived up to my expectations 100%.
“Deadly Proof” is a riveting legal thriller complete with a believable plot, just the right amount of pertinent facts, a bit of danger and suspense, plus a touch of romance for good measure. The plot features opposing lawyers who are good friends – at least they were before a major case against a giant pharmaceutical company. Kate is dedicated to helping the victims find justice and is determined to win her case without compromising her values. Ethan, the opposing attorney, is quite ambitious and eager to prove himself to his partners; however he finds himself constantly pressured by the clients who want to win the case no matter what it takes. Landon is the private investigator hired by Kate who quickly determines that Kate requires protection and takes it upon himself to provide it. Several other characters play minor yet crucial roles as the story plays out.
As expected, I thoroughly enjoyed “Deadly Proof”. The narrative moved along at a steady pace with enough action and mystery to hold my attention and keep me wondering what might happen next. I liked most of the characters, particularly Landon and Kate. I also liked learning more about everything involved in preparing a case for trial without having to wade through the overload of information provided by certain other popular authors. The emphasis on integrity and the importance of faith were also positive factors for me.
Everything considered, “Deadly Proof” is an excellent novel that makes me eager for the next book in the series. I hope others will take a chance on this new book by Rachel Dylan. They might just find a new favorite author.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House and the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Standing For What’s Right Could Cost Her Everything
Tapped as lead counsel in a corporate cover-up lawsuit against Mason Pharmaceutical, Kate Sullivan knows this case could make her career. What really drives her, though, is getting justice for the victims whose lives were ruined by the company’s dangerous new drug. But when a whistleblower turns up dead, it paints a target on the back of everyone involved.
Former Army Ranger turned private investigator Landon James steps in to handle security for Kate. He’s still haunted by mistakes in his past and is determined never to let something like that happen again. But it soon appears someone is willing to do anything–even commit murder–to keep the case from going to trial.
As danger closes in, Landon can’t help but admire Kate’s courage and resolve–but will her determination not to back down become too great of a risk?
Read an excerpt from “Deadly Proof” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rachel Dylan was a litigator in one of the nation’s most elite law firms for over eight years and now works as an attorney at one of the Big Three automobile manufacturers. She is the author of four Love Inspired Suspense novels and lives in Michigan with her husband. She is active on social media, and you can visit her website at www.racheldylan.com.
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by admin | Sep 6, 2017 | Books, Historical Mystery/Suspense, Romance, Southern
MY REVIEW:
I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s previous books, “Stealing Jake” and “Claiming Mariah” so I felt certain that her latest novel “The Promise of Breeze Hill” would be equally enjoyable. Pam Hillman came through with flying colors. This book is definitely a winner in my opinion.
Although not a western like the other two books (and I love westerns), “The Promise of Breeze Hill” has a southern setting in Mississippi near Natchez Trace. As a lifetime rural Tennessee girl, I am also quite fond of Southern novels so the book had a lot in its favor before I even opened its pages.
“The Promise of Breeze Hill” is one of the best novels in its genre that I have ever been blessed to read. Connor is a hero who is easy to love and Isabella is an admirable heroine. Their love story is not an instant one but one that grows gradually through mutual respect. I liked how Connor was portrayed with integrity and bravery while he was looked down upon by others and how one character in particular was actually not the grand person he pretended to be.
I really loved this book and look forward to the rest of the series. I am ready for it NOW!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by The Tyndale Blog Network. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Natchez, MS; 1791
Anxious for his brothers to join him on the rugged frontier along the Mississippi River, Connor O’Shea has no choice but to indenture himself as a carpenter in exchange for their passage from Ireland. But when he’s sold to Isabella Bartholomew of Breeze Hill Plantation, Connor fears he’ll repeat past mistakes and vows not to be tempted by the lovely lady.
The responsibilities of running Breeze Hill have fallen on Isabella’s shoulders after her brother was found dead in the swamps along the Natchez Trace and a suspicious fire devastated their crops, almost destroyed their home, and left her father seriously injured. Even with Connor’s help, Isabella fears she’ll lose her family’s plantation. Despite her growing feelings for the handsome Irish carpenter, she seriously considers accepting her wealthy and influential neighbor’s proposal of marriage.
Soon, though, Connor realizes someone is out to eliminate the Bartholomew family. Can he set aside his own feelings to keep Isabella safe?
Read an excerpt HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
CBA Bestselling author PAM HILLMAN was born and raised on a dairy farm in Mississippi and spent her teenage years perched on the seat of a tractor raking hay. In those days, her daddy couldn’t afford two cab tractors with air conditioning and a radio, so Pam drove an Allis Chalmers 110. Even when her daddy asked her if she wanted to bale hay, she told him she didn’t mind raking. Raking hay doesn’t take much thought so Pam spent her time working on her tan and making up stories in her head. Now, that’s the kind of life every girl should dream of.
www.pamhillman.com
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by admin | Aug 25, 2017 | Books, England, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have read and thoroughly enjoyed several novels by Roseanna M. White but “A Name Unknown” is absolutely the best one thus far. I honestly can’t imagine the next one being any better but if this author continues at this rate, anything is possible.
The story features two strong characters, both of whom are hiding secrets. Each of them also believes themselves to be unworthy of the other’s attention. I loved watching the healing that took place in their hearts as they got to know each other through their written notes and study of scripture. Plenty of drama, mystery, humor, and a special romance captured me from the beginning and didn’t let go until the very end. I loved the fact that neither Peter nor Rosemary were typical characters. The ironic fact that best-selling author Peter struggled with a stutter made him all the more endearing. And Rosemary’s attitudes and ideas formed by her unfortunate background were bound to come crashing down.
“A Name Unknown” is a wonderful story of changed hearts and unbiased love that was a joy to read. I hope you will take a chance on it too.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author and Bethany House. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She’s Out to Steal His Name. Will He Steal Her Heart Instead?
Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins who helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they are no longer pickpockets–instead they focus on high value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. Rosemary is beginning to question whether she can continue in this life when she’s offered the challenge of a lifetime–determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany. After all how does one steal a family’s history, their very name?
As Europe moves ever closer to World War I, rumors swirl around Peter Holstein. Awkward and solitary, but with access to the king, many fear his influence. But Peter can’t help his German last name and wants to prove his loyalty to the Crown–so he can go back to anonymously writing a series of popular adventure novels. When Rosemary arrives on his doorstep pretending to be a well-credentialed historian, Peter believes she’s the right person to help him dig through his family’s past.
When danger and suspicion continue to mount, both realize they’re in a race against time to discover the truth–about Peter’s past and about the undeniable attraction kindling between them.
Read an excerpt HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of nine novels, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her new British series. Roseanna lives with her family in West Virginia. Learn more at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
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by admin | Aug 7, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Historical, Romance, Split Time
MY REVIEW:
I have long been a fan of Rachel Hauck’s books so I was eager to read “The Writing Desk”. At first I had difficulty getting into the story but I’m still not certain why it started out so slowly for me. Nevertheless, I knew something good was waiting for me so I persisted and soon found myself totally immersed in the stories of both Tenley and Birdie.
Tenley is probably one of the most unique characters I’ve encountered. Her insistence on practically living in a man’s robe, not to mention failing to shower or comb her hair was just a bit over-the-top. Yet Jonas Sullivan and his family’s total acceptance of Tenley as she was eventually made a difference in her attitude. Tenley’s story was connected to Birdie’s by the writing desk used by both women and by the end of their story, readers will learn how closely the connection really was.
The book is populated with several strong characters who each add a special touch to the total story. The plot does not always move in the expected direction but takes a few twists and turns that might surprise the reader. I particularly liked how Tenley’s relationship with her estranged mother developed and was happy to see forgiveness play out on the pages of the story.
All-in-all, I thoroughly enjoyed “The Writing Desk” and would recommend it for adult readers. It is a clean story but it does mention lifestyle elements that some might find offensive. Be sure to read other reviews if you suspect you might be one who might take offense.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Amazon Vine. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
From the New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress comes a new captivating novel of secrets, romance, and two women bound together across time by a shared dream.
Tenley Roth’s first book was a runaway bestseller. Now that her second book is due, she’s locked in fear. Can she repeat her earlier success or is she a fraud who has run out of inspiration?
With pressure mounting from her publisher, Tenley is weighted with writer’s block. But when her estranged mother calls asking Tenley to help her through chemotherapy, she packs up for Florida where she meets handsome furniture designer Jonas Sullivan and discovers the story her heart’s been missing.
A century earlier, another woman wrote at the same desk with hopes and fears of her own. Born during the Gilded Age, Birdie Shehorn is the daughter of the old money Knickerbockers. Under the strict control of her mother, her every move is decided ahead of time, even whom she’ll marry. But Birdie has dreams she doesn’t know how to realize. She wants to tell stories, write novels, make an impact on the world. When she discovers her mother has taken extreme measures to manipulate her future, she must choose between submission and security or forging a brand new way all on her own.
Tenley and Birdie are from two very different worlds, but fate has bound them together in a way time cannot erase.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rachel Hauck is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author.
She is a Christy Award Winner and a double RITA finalist. Her book The Wedding Dress was named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times Book Club.
A graduate of Ohio State University with a degree in Journalism, and a former sorority girl, Rachel and her husband live in central Florida. She is a huge Buckeyes football fan.
Visit her at www.rachelhauck.com or www.facebook.com/rachelhauck
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by admin | Aug 7, 2017 | Books, England, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
A Regency romance with a touch of suspense, “The Captivating Lady Charlotte” has everything I look for in a novel. This particular book contains an unexpected twist that made it even more enjoyable for me. Quite often the young lady has her future husband chosen by her parents despite her attraction to another man. Charlotte’s story does not play out quite as I supposed it would but that’s all I have to say about that. You must read this most excellent novel to find out for yourself.
I really did love this book. Although Charlotte was a bit immature and flighty at the beginning, she eventually began to grow in both maturity and spiritual understanding so I liked her character much better by the end. William was an excellent hero – quiet and somewhat brooding but with a heart for the Lord. It was also such fun to see how he handled others, especially Charlotte’s mother, so tactfully yet forcefully. It was also nice to see Nicholas and Lavinia taking a prominent role in the story.
Well written with a strong plot and realistic characters, this novel beautifully illustrates the real meaning of true love. A touching story that explores deep emotions, it is one that will take its place on my keeper shelf.
The second book in Carolyn Miller’s debut series, “The Captivating Lady Charlotte” reinforces my determination to read every book this author releases. I eagerly anticipate the release of her next novel, “The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey”.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Kregel Publications. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Her heart is her own–but her hand in marriage is another matter
Lady Charlotte Featherington is destined for great things on the marriage market. After all, as the beautiful daughter of a marquess, she should have her pick of the eligible nobility when she debuts. She, however, has love at the top of her list of marriageable attributes. And her romantic heart falls hard for one particularly dashing, attentive suitor. Sadly for Charlotte, her noble father intends her betrothed to be someone far more dull.
William Hartwell may be a duke, but he knows he was Charlotte’s father’s pick, not the young lady’s own choice. And the captivating Lady Charlotte does not strike him as a woman who will be wooed by his wealth or title. While she has captured his heart, he has no idea how to win hers in return–and the betrayal and scandal his first wife put him through makes it difficult for him to believe that love can ever be trusted. His only hope is that Charlotte’s sense of responsibility will win out over her romantic notions.
Can a widowed duke and a romantically inclined lady negotiate a future and discover love beyond duty? Will they be able to find healing and hope from the legacy of grace? Poignant and charming, this is another beautifully written, clean, and wholesome Regency romance from Carolyn Miller.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Carolyn Miller lives in New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. A longtime lover of Regency romance, Carolyn’s novels have won a number of RWA and ACFW contests. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Australasian Christian Writers.Find out more about Carolyn at https://www.carolynmiller.org.
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by admin | Jul 28, 2017 | Australia, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Having read Kara Isaac’s first two novels, I should have known what to expect. As I read through the first few pages I thought it was a bit different from the others but I kept reading. I can truthfully say that “Then There Was You” is probably my favorite thus far. It probes depths of human emotions with an understanding that many never achieve.
With two primary characters who have been wounded by events in their lives and who shy away from romantic relationships, the story is both poignant and hopeful. Paige especially had many layers of buried pain to overcome. But don’t despair, the author’s quirky sense of humor also abounds within the pages of this book. I found myself laughing often as I read, even while I empathized with Paige and Josh and their issues.
I loved the Australian setting, especially that most of it took place on the site of a megachurch. Even better is that Josh was one of the primary worship leaders in the contemporary worship band. I was often reminded of Hillsong United as I read. It was fun seeing Australia and New Zealand through the eyes of the characters.
“Then There Was You” is a wonderful romantic tale that is filled with faith, forgiveness, and emotional healing. I so enjoyed this book and hope others will pick up a copy also.
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:
Paige McAllister needs to do something drastic. Her boyfriend can’t even commit to living in the same country, her promised promotion is dead on arrival and the simultaneous loss of her brother and her dream of being a concert violinist has kept her playing life safe and predictable for six years. Things need to change. A moment of temporary insanity finds her leaving her life in Chicago to move to Sydney, Australia. There she finds herself, against many of her convictions, as a logistics planner for one of Australia’s biggest churches, and on a collision course with her boss’s son.
Josh Tyler fronts a top-selling worship band and is in demand all over the world. But, in the past, his failed romantic relationships almost destroyed both his reputation and his family. He’s determined to never risk it happening again. The last thing he needs is some American girl tipping his ordered life upside down. Especially one who despises everything he’s ever worked for and manages to push every button he has.
When Josh and Paige are thrown together to organize his band’s next tour, the sparks fly. But can they find a way to bridge the differences that pull them apart? Or will they choose the safety and security of what they know over taking a chance on something that will require them to risk everything?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kara Isaac is an award-winning writer who lives in Wellington, New Zealand, where her career highlights include working in tourism as Private Secretary for the Prime Minister. She loves great books almost as much as she loves her husband and two children.
Visit Kara on her WEBSITE and on FACEBOOK.
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