by admin | Jul 5, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Mystery, Romance
MY REVIEW:
The hero of “Murder Mezzo Forte” is an unlikely college history professor in threadbare suits who drives what many would consider a junker. Preston Barclay is also a reclusive widower with a penchant for puns. He also suffers with musical hallucinations. Yet for some reason the ladies seem drawn to him. After he and a female colleague discover the body of another professor, they soon find themselves suspects as well as victims of rumors and lies intended to destroy their careers and perhaps even their lives.
Unfamiliar with Taylor’s books, I was delighted to find “Murder Mezzo Forte” to be quite entertaining with abundant humorous and witty remarks that helped to lighten the much darker subjects of murder and danger. More than once I found myself chuckling at one of Preston’s off-the-wall remarks right in the middle of a suspenseful scene. What fun!
The intriguing plot includes a diverse cast of characters that includes corrupt policemen, inept college administrators, organized crime members, and quirky faculty members as well as other unique characters. Preston himself was a quite interesting character complete with foibles but his honesty about his shortcomings was refreshing. The mystery was one that kept me guessing throughout the story although hints dropped along the way led me in the right direction. There were definitely some welcome surprises and the touch of romance was just right.
I enjoyed “Murder Mezzo Forte” and would definitely be interested in reading other books by Donn Taylor.
A copy of this book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
He is a reclusive history professor with musical hallucinations. . . .
She a headstrong professor of religion, a converted Wiccan. Earlier, they solved a campus murder, but now police say they formed two-thirds of an illicit love triangle with a newly-murdered female colleague and they’re probably guilty of her murder. A leak of the alleged scandal to the college administration threatens their jobs.
Their desperate attempt to prove themselves innocent of the triangle and the murder plunges them into a tangle of unsavory corporate relationships among college trustees. And it puts their lives in danger from a mysterious criminal organization that seems to have tentacles everywhere.
Can this ill-matched pair’s stumbling efforts succeed against the entrenched forces of the police, the college’s incompetent administration, and that powerful but unseen criminal organization? If not, they may end up unemployed, in prison, or suffering a fate much worse.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Donn Taylor led an Infantry rifle platoon in the Korean War, served with Army aviation in Vietnam, and worked with air reconnaissance in Europe and Asia. Afterwards, he earned a PhD in Renaissance literature and taught literature at two liberal arts colleges. His publications include three suspense novels, one historical novel, and a book of poetry. He lives near Houston, TX, where he writes fiction, poetry, and essays on current topics.
Find out more about Donn at http://www.donntaylor.com.
Save
by admin | Jun 28, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I always enjoy Beth Vogt’s novels but “Almost Like Being In Love” is exceptionally good. With down-to-earth, likeable characters and a strong, evocative plot, this story pulled me right in and didn’t let go until its perfect ending.
Caron Hollister has spent her entire life trying to please her father – from basketball in high school to becoming a successful realtor in his firm to walking away from the love of her life and settling for the man her father approves. When her father makes a major change in the firm without telling her, Caron realizes that she can never do enough to earn his approval. A snap decision sends her to Colorado to help her her best friend prepare for her wedding and finds herself the winner of a destination wedding and honeymoon. How on earth will she tell her boyfriend Alex who hasn’t asked her to marry him yet? While there she runs into Kade, her former sweetheart and ends up agreeing to help him out in his business for a month. What a tangled mess!
I liked the way the author wrote this from POVs of Caron, Kade, and Alex so that the reader gets to know each of them intimately. The major theme that runs through the story is about what motivates people to make the decisions they make. Caron and Alex especially had to step back and look at themselves and what they really wanted from life and decide why they were even together. Did they really love each other enough to marry or were they trying to please their families or were they just doing what was easy and comfortable?
I really liked the way this story ended with none of the characters being portrayed as the “bad guy” (or girl). I would say that most of the situations were resolved well with relationships restored and lives changed for the better. I would heartily recommend this book.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, Inc.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Winning an all-expenses paid Colorado destination wedding might seem like a dream come true for some people—but Caron Hollister and her boyfriend Alex Madison aren’t even engaged. How is she supposed to tell him she’s won their wedding and honeymoon when he hasn’t asked her to marry him? Being “perfect for one another” seems like the absolute best reason to get married. But what if their supposedly faultless relationship is merely a safe place to protect his secrets and a way to keep their families happy? After quitting her job, Caron accepts her best friend’s offer to visit Colorado. She needs to catch her breath. Who knows, maybe visiting the destination wedding site will make a future with Alex seem like a reality.
Kade Webster just landed the biggest deal of his life with his company, Webster Select Realty, participating in the Colorado Springs Tour of Homes. He never imagined he would run into the woman who broke his heart—Caron Hollister—right when his career is taking off. Seeing her again, Kade can’t help but wonder why Caron walked away from him years ago, leaving him with no explanation. When Kade learns his home stager won’t be able to help with the Tour of Homes, he vaults past all the reasons he should stay away from Caron, and offers her a temporary job helping him on the project. This time, their relationship is purely business.
Spending time with Kade has Caron questioning everything. The man intrigues her—at times infuriates her—and reminds her of what she lost. Has she been settling for what everyone expects of her? Just because others believe she and Alex are an ideal couple, does that mean they should get married? And how can Caron say “I do” to one man when she’s wondering “what if?” about another?
Read a preview of “Almost Like Being In Love” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Beth K. Vogt is a nonfiction writer who said she’d never write fiction. After saying she’d never marry a doctor or anyone in the military, she is now happily married to a former Air Force family physician. Beth believes God’s best is often behind the door marked “never.” An established magazine writer and editor, she now writes inspirational contemporary romance because she believes there is more to happily ever after than the fairy tales tell us.
Save
Save
Save
by admin | Jun 21, 2016 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“More Than She Dreamt” is a sweet, historical romance novel that made me think of all the Grace Livingston Hill novels I devoured at one time of my life. I believe it was the dialogue that gave me that impression at first, then the lofty thoughts Danny had about Katie clinched it for me.
The story wasn’t all sweet and light though. Young widow Katie Jensen had been through some hard times and had sacrificed much for her children and had their well-being as her priority. When she felt the Lord prompt her to leave her uncle’s home, she left with bare minimum funds and her faith, buoyed by her young son’s constant reminders that “the Lord will provide”. And provide He did! Yet in the midst of that provision, Katie’s faith was put to the test over and over as danger stalked her more than once.
Character development in “More Than She Dreamt” was well done and the plot moved along at a fairly decent pace. Some readers might find the story just a bit too sweet but I felt that the sweetness was tempered well by the added danger and suspense. Then we can’t forget those precious children who provided abundant humor throughout the story.
“More Than She Dreamt” is a novel filled with hope and faith that demonstrates how important it is to trust and depend on the Lord and to follow His lead.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Celebrate Lit.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
It was more than she dreamt. But as the romance began to bud, she felt the thorns of a heartless beauty rise to tear it apart.
Young widow, Katie Jensen, endures patiently under her oppressive uncle in desolate Arizona Territory. She tries to keep her promise to her dead aunt to be a witness and take care of her uncle but when his tirades grow worse, she gathers her two precious little ones and runs.
Making their way to an unknown land, they come to the town of White Rock, which is strangely like the place in the dreams Katie has been having. They are welcomed into the cottage of a kindly grandmother who takes in borders.
When Danny, the older woman’s grandson, comes home, he finds surprises in store: a crisis, a beautiful young woman, and her adorable children who bring laughter and life into all their weary souls.
Katie is filled with hope when an unexpected romance sparks but there is a vindictive raven-haired beauty and an old enemy conspiring to put it out—permanently.
Will God give Katie rest as she and the family pray for their enemies?
Can she stand strong in her faith when fear overwhelms her?
Purchase your copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sandy Faye Mauck writes Historical Romance in the light of the gospel and with the heart of her Savior.
Slip into a comfy chair with a cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate and travel back to the first years after the turn of the century.
Enjoy faithful Christian characters who have come through a spiritual wilderness into a place of hope. Stories of charming romance sprinkled with humor and topped with redemption. And be sure not to put the cup too close to the edge of the table because there are enemies lurking about.
Sandy lives in her own happily-ever-after with her Bible doctrine writer husband in the west they love. They have five children and nine grandchildren. She enjoys crocheting (a different kind of yarn) and is also a professional artist.
Guest Post from Sandy Faye Mauck:
Hi everyone! Sandy Faye Mauck here! Today I launch my book on Celebrate Lit!
They say to write the book that is missing from your bookshelf. So I did. I wrote a story that brought the purity of a Christian romance with a touch of humor and endearing characters who live what they believe, with real enemies and redemptive grace.
More Than She Dreamt is set at the time just after the turn of the century. Probably my favorite time travel place if I had to choose because of the interesting changes and the lovely clothing and yet there was indoor plumbing, and lights, LOL!
My greatest writing inspiration (other than my Lord), was my favorite author, Grace Livingston Hill. She could tell a story, make you feel you were there in every sense. Grace could bring romance, excitement, and enemies and then touch your heart with a truth of God’s word that would penetrate your heart. I hope to do this as I write my heart and I add humor because that is who I am.
I hope you enjoy this Celebrate Lit Blog Tour and the special personal giveaway at the end!
Blog Tour Stops:
June 14: cherylbbookblog
June 15: Singing Librarian Books
June 16: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner
June 17: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
June 18: Bigreadersite
June 18: Cassandra M’s Place
June 19: A Greater Yes
June 19: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
June 20: Pause for Tales
June 21: Daysong Reflections
June 22: A Holland Reads
June 23: Splashes of Joy
June 23: Christian Bookaholic
June 24: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses
June 25: Red Headed Book Lady
June 25: It’s Storytime With Van Daniker
June 26: Bukwurmzzz
June 27: For the Love of books
Giveaway:
To celebrate her tour, Sandy is giving away a charming keepsake box filled with some Rose Arbor themed prizes. Enter here: https://promosimple.com/ps/9c26
Save
Save
by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
My daughter and her husband have been living in a small town on the Oregon coast for the past six months as traveling physical therapy assistants so I have especially enjoyed reading the Hope Harbor series. I seriously doubt that they have encountered people such as those who inhabit the pages of these books. I would very much like them to encounter someone like Charlie and his taco stand.
I have long been a fan of Irene Hannon’s suspense novels and have been delighted to find she is equally adept at writing contemporary romance novels. One thing I particularly liked about “Sea Rose Lane” is that although a romantic relationship between Eric and BJ was expected, there was such a focus on their personal growth as well as their involvement with others. Through their helping others, they each found emotional healing and direction for their lives.
It was fun to reconnect with familiar characters from “Hope Harbor”, especially Charlie who had a knack of being at his taco stand at just the right time with just the right words of wisdom. Then there were the seagull couple and the burping seal who added the perfect touch of whimsy to the story.
I am loving this series and would like it to go on beyond the usual trilogy. I can’t wait for the next installment!
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Two people starting over . . . in a town known for second chances
After a devastating layoff, attorney Eric Nash heads back to Hope Harbor–only to discover that his childhood home is being transformed into a bed and breakfast. Instead of plotting his next career move in peace, he’s constantly distracted by noise, chaos–and BJ Stevens, the attractive but prickly blonde architect who’s invaded the house with her motley crew. As for BJ, her client’s son might be handsome, but after a disastrous romance, dating isn’t high on her agenda. Yet when they join forces for to help Hope Harbor seniors, might they also find healing, hope, and a new beginning themselves?
Come home to Hope Harbor–where hearts heal . . . and love blooms
Read an excerpt from “Sea Rose Lane” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Save
Save
Save
by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have read numerous books by Melody Carlson in several genres. “All Summer Long” is not the best one I’ve read but it would definitely make a good take-along to the beach or summer vacation. While it does not contain a deep spiritual message as many of her novels do, it was fun and easy to read which is exactly what some of us need once in awhile.
The story itself features Tia, who has moved to San Francisco to work with her aunt to refurbish a luxury yacht into a restaurant. Upon her arrival, she is picked up at the airport by none other than the guy she crushed on during sailing camp years before and has dreamed about since their one shared kiss. Her hopes for romance are dashed when she learns that he is already engaged to a gorgeous gal who is difficult not to like. So we all know where this novel is headed don’t we? Well, the fun is all in finding out what happens.
“All Summer Long” is immensely readable even if I did get frustrated with both Tia and Leo often. I had to remind myself that these characters were young and young people do not always think straight when it comes to romance. The story is peppered with both humor and angst as well as delightful descriptions of the San Francisco area. I did like the fact that the story was resolved well without the fiance being portrayed as some evil woman. The book is a fun and clean romance that parents would not mind sharing with their teens.
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She’s ready to take on a new challenge. What she doesn’t expect is an old flame.
Tia D’Amico is thrilled to move to San Francisco to help her aunt transform an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant. What’s not to love? Sunset dinner cruises, posh wedding receptions–the possibilities are endless and far more appetizing than staying in a monotonous job in her Podunk hometown. Besides, some of her best memories are tied to San Francisco–especially the memory of Leo Parker, her crush from a long-ago sailing camp.
When Leo Parker himself turns out to be the yacht’s captain, Tia is floating on air. But will it all come crashing down around her when she discovers his heart belongs to someone else?
Get ready for a romantic summer in San Francisco, where the future glistens brighter than the Bay at sunset.
Read an excerpt from All Summer Long HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than five million. She is the author of several Christmas books from Revell, including the bestselling The Christmas Bus, The Christmas Dog, and Christmas at Harrington’s, which is being considered for a TV movie. She is also the author of many teen books, including Just Another Girl, Anything but Normal, Double Take, the Life at Kingston High series, and the Diary of a Teenage Girl series. She is the winner of a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice. Melody and her husband live in Oregon.
For more information about Melody visit her website at www.melodycarlson.com.
Save
by admin | Jun 17, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
In the third and final book of Varina Denman’s Mended Hearts series, readers become more acquainted with Lynda Turner, a character from the previous two books who was not always shown in a positive light. As I got to know her better in “Jilted” I felt that I understood her struggles and could both empathize with her and applaud her strength in view of the difficulties she had faced all her life. I also got to know Clyde a bit better and learned to like him too.
“Jilted” is one of those books that grabs you and won’t let go. There was a lot going on as this series worked its way toward a conclusion with unanswered questions solved and characters who were finally able to put the past behind them and move on with their lives. A mysterious discovery at the lake had more significance than anyone could have imagined and would impact Lynda’s life considerably. Then there is the character who is a fine example of the effect buried guilt can have on a person.
A well-written story with well-rounded characters, “Jilted” is a story of abandonment, betrayal, love, hope, loyalty, and redemption. I enjoyed the entire series and look forward to whatever this author will offer her readers next.
A copy of this book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can all things really work together for good, and can the joy of living be found once again? Don’t miss one woman’s story in book three, Jilted, of Varina Denman’s Mended Hearts series.
Lynda Turner has struggled with depression since her husband abandoned her and their young daughter fifteen years ago. Yet unexpected hope awakens when a local ex-convict shows interest. As long-hidden secrets resurface, Lynda must fight for her emotional stability and for a life where the shadow of shame is replaced by the light of love.
Jilted tells of a woman who has lost the joy of living, a man determined to draw her back toward happiness, and a town that must—once and for all—leave the past where it belongs. It is a gentle reminder that all things can work together for good.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Varina Denman is author of the Mended Hearts series and a native Texan. She spent her high school years in a rural town and now writes stories about the struggles women face in similar small town settings. She and her husband live near Fort Worth, where they enjoy spending time with their five mostly grown children.
Find out more about Varina at https://varinadenman.com.
Celebrate the release of Varina’s Jilted by entering to win a $50 gift card.
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A copy of Jilted to kick off a summer of reading
- A $50 Kohl’s gift card to make your summertime sweet
The giveaway ends on July 1st. The winner will be announced July 5th on Varina’s website.
Save
Save
Save
Save
Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of more than fifty novels, including One Perfect Spring, Hope Harbor, and Sea Rose Lane, as well as the Private Justice and Men of Valor suspense series. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, two Carol Awards, two Reviewers’ Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine, a Retailers’ Choice Award, three HOLT Medallions, two Booksellers’ Best Awards, and a National Readers’ Choice Award. She is also a two-time Christy Award finalist. Learn more at 
