by admin | Nov 28, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
“Dangerous Illusions” is brilliant! When a young widow’s mother dies under her care, she immediately becomes a suspect when it is determined that it was an overdose. Troubling as that is, even more so are the apparent memory lapses Trish Bailey is suffering. Detective Colin Flynn is not comfortable with what he knows about the case and as time goes by the situation becomes even more dangerous. And could Colin be close to breaking the important rule of not becoming too involved with a suspect?
In “Dangerous Illusions” very little is as it seems to be. The plot is particularly challenging with several major surprises along the way. This was one book I definitely did not want to put down for even one minute. I heartily recommend all of Irene Hannon’s books but “Dangerous Illusions” may just be the best one yet.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death–and puts Trish under police scrutiny–her world is once again thrown into turmoil.
Detective Colin Flynn isn’t certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge–and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn’t just dangerous . . . it’s deadly.
Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon will capture your imagination with a mind-bending story that will have you doubling back to retrace your steps–and figure out what you missed!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than fifty novels, including Buried Secrets, Thin Ice, and Tangled Webs, as well as the Heroes of Quantico, Guardians of Justice, and Private Justice series. In addition to many other honors, she is a seven-time finalist for and three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA’s elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.
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 25, 2017 | Appalachia, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Charming the Troublemaker” is the first book that I’ve read by Pepper Basham but I guarantee it won’t be the last. In fact I plan to find time to read “A Twist of Fate” as soon as possible since it is already in residence on my Kindle.
Rainey has met Dr. Alex Murdock before and she is less than excited to find out he will be on staff at her university because all that she can see is an handsome but arrogant flirt, in other words, a troublemaker. And Rainey doesn’t need one of those anywhere near her ordered world. Alex considers his new position a come down from his usual position and plans to find a way out of the backwoods of Appalachia as quickly as he can – that is until he encounters Rainey and her five-year-old daughter Sarah. Yeah, romance readers know exactly what will happen by the end of this story. But oh what a delightful and fun time I had on the way to that satisfying conclusion.
Each and every one of the characters was perfectly well-rounded and natural. They could all be someone we know (or wish we knew). Rainey and Alex each had hidden depths beyond the faces they showed the world, buried pain and secrets they guarded at all costs. Yet somehow God had a plan for them to get to know one another and find the healing they so desperately needed.
For a spiritually deep novel, “Charming the Troublemaker” had so many humorous scenes that kept me laughing and smiling between the more serious ones that touched my heart. Who could resist a muddy man in underoos who can also make a verbally abused woman feel beautiful again?
Loved, loved, loved this book. Do yourself a favor and run, not walk to your nearest bookstore or online retailer and grab a copy of “Charming the Troublemaker” for yourself. You might want to pick up a copy of “A Twist of Fate” to save some time because I feel sure you will want it also.
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
Troublemaking never looked so good…
When Dr. Alex Murdock is demoted to a university in rural Virginia, the last thing he expects to find is a future. But country charm never looks as good as it does on Rainey Mitchell.
Rainey Mitchell doesn’t need a high-class flirt in her wounded world, but trouble and temptations wafts off the new professor as strong as his sandalwood-scented cologne.
When circumstances thrust them together to save her tutoring clinic, can the troublemaker find the hero inside and encourage the reticent Rainey to open her heart again.
Click here to purchase!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes novels inspired by her love for history and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Her Penned in Time series has garnered recognition in the Inspys, Grace Awards, and the ACFW Carol Awards. Her contemporary romance novel, A Twist of Faith, received 4-stars from Romantic Times, and most recently, her newest release, The Thorn Healer, received a Top Pick from RT with 4 ½ stars. Her newest contemporary romance, Just the Way You Are, releases in April 2016. You can get to know Pepper on Facebook, or over at her group blog, The Writer’s Alley, or Instagram.
GUEST POST FROM PEPPER BASHAM:
I have a thing for underdogs.
Misfits.
Lost souls who desperately need to find where they belong.
I can’t help it! Call it a ‘fix-it’ mentality or an awareness that God rescued me and now I want to rescue other people…even fictional characters, but I’m definitely a softy for those characters that people are less likely to root for. Catherine from The Thorn Bearer/Keeper became my first rescue…and I just HAD to find another.
I guess that’s how Charming the Troublemaker came into existence.
Dr. Alex Murdock desperately needed to be rescued.
In a bad way.
If you’ve had a chance to read my first book in the Mitchell’s Crossroads series, A Twist of Faith, you’ll know that Alex doesn’t seem to be made up of much hero material. He’s a flirt, a little arrogant, and…well, kind of like a lost puppy.
As book 1 grew and came to a close, I knew Alex and Rainey’s story would be next…but I immediately ran into a real problem.
Who in the world was Alex Murdock? We really didn’t get to know him very much in book 1. He zoomed in a few times, ruffling feathers and then finally showing off some interesting kindness/compassion in the end, but…he was still a big-time flirt.
So the question emerged: Can a flirt be a hero?
What is Alex hiding behind that ready smile and sense of humor? Why does he seem so lost?
The answers were surprising!! Just wait.
The Mitchell family draw him right in, as they did with Dee, and his world is forever changed.
And then there’s Rainey. Strong-willed and independent, she is deeply wounded by her ex-husband’s betrayal. Though she gives off all these ‘confident’ vibes, she hides her insecurities behind a tough exterior in a desire to keep people at a distance – well, everyone except her family.
Alex rocks her world with his ready charm.
And she sees beyond the plastic grin to recognize another wounded soul.
Throwing them together into a book has been a hilarious and heart-stirring adventure, I wasn’t prepared to encounter. They’re so much fun!
AND…he’s ADORKABLE!! Seriously!! He is SUCH a dork, but makes me grin. And…he looks like Armie Hammer ?
Let me just give you a hint to some of my favorite scenes:
Anything with Sarah!
Underoos
All of the scenes in Rainey’s house
And those in Mama Mitchell’s
Okay, I like the WHOLE STORY…and I can’t wait to see what you think too.
BLOG STOPS:
By The Book, November 14
Just the Write Escape, November 14
Avid Reader Book Reviews, November 15
Reading Is My SuperPower, November 15
Moments Dipped in Ink, November 15
Fiction Aficionado, November 16
autism mom, November 16
Fiction, Faith, and Fun, November 17
Inklings and Notions, November 17
Faithfully Bookish, November 18
Radiant Light, November 18
Reflections From My Bookshelves, November 19
The Power of Words, November 19
Cordially Barbara, November 20
Red Headed Book Lady, November 20
Smiling Book Reviews, November 20
Kat’s Corner Books, November 21
A Greater Yes, November 21
100 Pages per Hour, November 22
Splashes of Joy, November 22
Carpe Diem, November 23
Bookworm Mama, November 23
A Baker’s Perspective, November 24
The Important Things in Life: God, Books, & Chocolate, November 24
Daysong Reflections, November 25
Rachel Scott McDaniel, November 25
Remembrancy, November 26
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 26
Christian Chick’s Thoughts, November 27
Karen Sue Hadley, November 27
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Pepper is giving away a grand prize of a paper copy of A Twist of Faith, a mug from the Blue Ridge Parkway, one driftwood scented candle, one mango scented candle, and a Troublemaker snickers ? highly appropriate. Chocolate with a nutty personality :)!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!
https://promosimple.com/ps/c1f1
by admin | Nov 20, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
What a delight to return for a visit to Thunder Creek and touch base with old friends and meet some new ones too! The author’s wonderful descriptions of the area almost makes me want to pack a bag to visit this fictional town. But another visit there through the pages of “You’re Gonna Love Me” will have to do for me.
I also loved every page of Sam and Nick’s story – one about forgiveness, second chances and facing your fears. I can absolutely relate to Sam’s cautionary nature for I am much the same way. At this point of my life, I’m not certain I can overcome my own fears but Sam’s experiences encourage me to try.
Another beautiful novel by Robin Lee Hatcher, “You’re Gonna Love Me” is one you will absolutely not want to miss!
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:
Who knew fate could twist a tragedy into a second chance at love?
Samantha Winters lives her life the way a good accountant should—measured, deliberate, and safe. After watching her father die in a tragic skiing accident, she decided never to allow risk into her life again. But she didn’t count on falling for Nick Chastain, who embodies everything she doesn’t want in her safely constructed world.
Against Samantha’s warnings, Nick plans a dangerous kayaking trip over spring break. Furious that he’s so careless with his life, she ends their fledgling relationship with harsh words.
Two years later, Samantha is desperately in need of a change. When she learns her grandmother has had an accident and is in need of a caretaker, Samantha quickly packs her bags and heads to Thunder Creek, Idaho. But nothing could prepare her for the surprise awaiting her in her grandmother’s hospital room . . . Nick.
With the charming backdrop of small-town friends, beloved cousins, and a whole church congregation rooting for them, can they set aside the disastrous ending of their first try at love? Has Nick changed enough to meet Samantha in the middle—and can she realize that a risk in love might be worth taking?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher, author of more than 75 books, is known for her heartwarming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. Robin is an eleven-time finalist and two-time winner of the prestigious RITA® Award. In addition to the RITA and many other awards, she is the recipient of Lifetime Achievement Awards from both Romance Writers of America® and American Christian Fiction Writers, When not writing, she enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, Bible art journaling, reading books that make her cry, watching romantic movies, and decorative planning. Robin and her husband make their home on the outskirts of Boise.
by admin | Nov 11, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Mystery
MY REVIEW:
No sooner than professor Preston Barclay arrives on campus to teach a couple of summer classes, rumors have spread that he intends to investigate the death of his friend and fellow professor. Despite the police evidence that points to suicide, Press is drawn into an ever-growing web of situations where nothing is as it seems. Was his friend’s death actually murder and was it just one part of a farther reaching crime problem?
As expected, I thoroughly enjoyed this latest Preston Barclay Mystery, “Murder in Disguise”. The author deftly manages to combine drama, mystery, humor, and a touch of romance while also educating his readers on the Christian history and other facts taught by the professor. Characterizations are excellent as Taylor manages to make each one seem naturally realistic. A few surprises along the way kept things interesting as did the growing romance between Press and Mara.
I also liked the way the author managed to tie current campus politics and practices into the story. It helped confirm suspicions of why many of our young people have developed their current mindsets. If only more of our educators were like Press and Mara and Professor Collier.
“Murder in Disguise” is a terrific book and so is the entire series. This series would be one that many men would enjoy as it is told from Preston’s point of view and the romantic content is fairly subtle.
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:
A story of murder, a rumored secret life, and anonymous threats—don’t miss book three, Murder in Disguise, of Donn Taylor’s Preston Barclay Mystery series! Visiting professor Preston Barclay decides to investigate the department chairman’s mysterious death. The more Press questions, the more dangerous the threats against him become, and the more determined he grows to clear his friend’s name. Can Press’ stumbling efforts prevail against the entrenched forces of the police, the campus radicals, and an unseen but powerful criminal organization that increasingly puts lives in danger?
Official verdict: Suicide.
But why would that vigorous department chairman kill himself? To avoid disgrace? Those rumored ventures on the dark side? Some other secret life? Visiting professor Preston Barclay wonders. But his questions bring no answers, only anonymous threats. He has enough problems already, proving himself on a strange campus while radical faculty do all they can to undermine him. Worse yet, that sexy siren assigned as his assistant complicates his courtship of the beautiful Mara Thorn.
While Press keeps asking questions, Mara’s research reveals a cancer of criminal activity that permeates the community and even the campus itself. The more Press questions, the more dangerous the threats against him become, and the more determined he grows to clear his friend’s name.
But can Press and Mara’s stumbling efforts prevail against the entrenched forces of the police, the campus radicals, and an unseen but powerful criminal organization that increasingly puts their lives in danger…?
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
With a PhD in English literature (Renaissance), Donn Taylor taught literature for 18 years at two liberal arts colleges. Now retired, he has published suspense novels, mysteries, and poetry. His historical novel “Lightning on a Quiet Night” was a finalist for the 2015 Selah Awards. He is a frequent speaker at writers’ conferences. In a prior incarnation, he led an Infantry rifle platoon in the Korean War, served with Army aviation in Vietnam, and worked with air reconnaissance in Europe and Asia. He now lives in the woods near Houston, TX, where he writes fiction, poetry, and essays on current topics.
Find out more about Donn at http://www.donntaylor.com.
by admin | Nov 4, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Mystery
MY REVIEW:
I always enjoy a book by Christy Barritt. Not only does she create a good mystery that takes her readers down enough rabbit trails to keep them guessing but she does it with plenty of humor. Loved this first book in the new series about Joey Darling, a down-on-her-luck actress who is constantly mistaken for her famous role as detective Raven Remington. Naturally Joey finds herself up to her neck in the middle of an investigation and she manages to fumble her way to a few answers.
Loved this book and definitely plan to read the entire series. Joey Darling is an inspired character and it also doesn’t hurt that there are two men who play significant roles in this story. Can’t wait to see where this series takes them all.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
I’m not really a private detective. I just play one on TV.
Joey Darling, better known to the world as Raven Remington, detective extraordinaire, is trying to separate herself from her invincible alter ego. She played the spunky character for five years on the hit TV show Relentless, which catapulted her to fame and into the role of Hollywood’s sweetheart.
When her marriage falls apart, her finances dwindle to nothing, and her father disappears, Joey finds herself on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, trying to piece her life back together away from the limelight. A woman finds Raven—er, Joey—and insists on hiring her fictional counterpart to find a missing boyfriend. When someone begins staging crime scenes to match an episode of Relentless, Joey has no choice but to get involved.
Joey’s bumbling sleuthing abilities have her butting heads with Detective Jackson Sullivan and kindling sparks with thrill-seeking neighbor Zane Oakley. Can Joey channel her inner Raven and unearth whodunit before she ends up totally done in? And where is her father anyway? Can she handle fame, or is disappearing into obscurity the wiser option?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
USA Today has called Christy Barritt’s books “scary, funny, passionate, and quirky.”
A Publishers Weekly best-seller, Christy writes both mystery and romantic suspense novels that are clean with underlying messages of faith. Her books have won the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery, have been twice nominated for the Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, and have finaled for both a Carol Award and Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year.
She’s married to her prince charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious–but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado.
Christy currently splits her time between the Virginia suburbs and Hatteras Island, North Carolina. She has more than fifty books published with over one million copies sold.
For more information, visit her website: www.christybarritt.com.
