by admin | Aug 20, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I have loved this entire series featuring female bodyguards. These tough and tenacious gals are equipped to do their job well but they each have their feminine side and are vulnerable as the next woman to falling in love. It has been such fun to read about each of the women in the agency as well as the men who enter their lives in the course of their work and it’s equally fun to see how these men usually take it upon themselves to protect the women who make their livings protecting others.
“Chasing Secrets” is Haley’s story and what a story it is. Born in Ireland, Haley has lived in the U.S. for awhile working for the Elite Guardians Agency where she meets Detective Steven while working on a case. As can be expected, Haley’s life is endangered and Steven appoints himself as her guardian. But there are several aspects to the danger and it is difficult to pinpoint where the real threat lies. Secrets from Haley’s unknown roots are revealed that threaten to knock her feet out from under her but God is at work through it all.
As in the previous novels of this series, “Chasing Secrets” is filled with exciting and suspense filled action that keeps those pages turning. Danger from every direction and a growing romance added to my enjoyment. Lynette Eason is a pro when it comes to writing romantic suspense and I have recommended her books to my friends who also refuse to miss one.
I found myself at the end much too soon and craving more. Dare I hope that this is not the last book of the series? I would love to read more about the new agents who were introduced in this book. If you enjoy romantic suspense and have not read this series, GO immediately and pick up “Chasing Secrets” and all the previous books of the series if you possibly can.
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:
Intensity. Skill. Tenacity.
The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have it all.
When a photo leads investigators in West Ireland to open a twenty-five-year-old cold case, Elite Guardians bodyguard Haley Callaghan’s life is suddenly in danger. Haley knows how to take care of herself; after all, she’s made a career out of taking care of others. But after she has an uncomfortably close call, Detective Steven Rothwell takes it upon himself to stay with her–and the young client she has taken under her wing. A protector at heart, he’s not about to let Haley fight this battle alone.
In a sweeping plot that takes them into long-buried memories–and the depths of the heart–Haley and Steven will have to solve the mystery of Haley’s past while dodging bullets, bombs, and bad guys who just won’t quit.
Read an excerpt HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series, the Deadly Reunions series, and the Hidden Identity series, as well as Always Watching, Without Warning, Moving Target, and Chasing Secrets in the Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of two ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award. She has a master’s degree in education from Converse College and lives in South Carolina. Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.
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by admin | Aug 8, 2017 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
Third and final book in Cindy Woodsmall’s The Amish of Summer Grove series, “Gathering the Threads” left me satisfied yet wanting more. I would be quite happy to continue reading about Ariana, Quill, Skylar, and all the other fine characters from this series but all good things must end so I look forward to whatever new series this author has planned for her readers.
As the title suggests, in this powerful conclusion all the threads come together to present the completed story, including all the secrets and even a few surprises. I liked the way Ariana questioned her parents while remaining respectful of them. Quill continued to be a favorite as he has been from the very first book of the series. Needless to say, I have hoped he and Ariana would eventually find themselves to be more than friends. I also loved watching each of them mature in their faith despite (or because of) the difficulties they faced. It was also gratifying to see the effect certain revelations had on the community. In my opinion, “Gathering the Threads” turned out just right.
I hope you will pick up a copy for yourself soon but if you haven’t read the previous novels of this series, I would suggest reading them first. I loved this series and highly recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author, Cindy Woodsmall and Waterbrook/Multnomah. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Finally back in the Old Order Amish world she loves,
Will Ariana’s new perspectives draw her family closer together—
or completely rip them apart?
After months away in the Englisch world, Ariana Brenneman is overjoyed to be in the Old Order Amish home where she was raised. Yet her excitement is mixed with an unexpected apprehension as she reconciles all she’s learned from her biological parents with the uncompromising teachings of her Plain community. Although her childhood friend, ex-Amish Quill Schlabach, hopes to help her navigate her new role amongst her people, Ariana’s Daed doesn’t understand why his sweet daughter is suddenly questioning his authority. What will happen if she sows seeds of unrest and rebellion in the entire family?
Meanwhile, Skylar Nash has finally found her place among the large Brenneman family, but Ariana’s arrival threatens to unravel Skylar’s new identity—and her sobriety. Both Ariana and Skylar must discover the true cords that bind a family and community together and grasp tight the One who holds their authentic identities close to His heart.
Gathering the Threads is the third and final novel in The Amish of Summer Grove series.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times and CBA best-selling author of numerous works of fiction and one of nonfiction. Her connection with the Amish community has been featured widely in national media. She lives in the Foothills of the North Georgia Mountains with her family.
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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 | 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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by admin | Jul 24, 2017 | Adventure, Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
Susan May Warren has long been one of my favorite authors and is definitely on my don’t miss short list. It is always exciting when I actually receive a copy of her latest book to review but it is no question that I WILL have a copy asap. I actually purchased the first two books in this series and loved them so I was happy to receive a review copy from Revell for “A Matter of Trust”.
One of the most adrenaline laced books I have encountered, “A Matter of Trust” had me holding my breath at times while hoping Gage and Ella would find her brother and that all of them would actually make it down the mountain alive. Yet this book is more than just action and adventure, daring and danger. The emotionally charged story explores the depths of feelings between Gage and Ella who must decide if they can trust each other despite their disastrous past. A beautiful story of forgiveness, “A Matter of Trust” is one I will long remember.
The author has such a way with words that it was easy to imagine myself on the mountainside in Glacier National Park. I also had the positive reinforcement of gorgeous photos from my daughter and her husband’s recent visit there.
I am pleased to know that there are more installments coming in the Montana Rescue series and I am certain that I will be reading each and every one of them.
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:
It’s those we love who have the power to hurt us most . . .
Champion backcountry snowboarder Gage Watson has left the limelight behind after the death of one of his fans. After being sued for negligence and stripped of his sponsorships, he’s remade his life as a ski patrol in Montana’s rugged mountains, as well as serving on the PEAK Rescue team. But he can’t seem to find his footing–or forget the woman who betrayed him.
Senator and former attorney Ella Blair spends much of her time in the public eye as one of the youngest senators in the country. But she has a secret–one that cost Gage his career. More than anything, she wants to atone for her betrayal of him in the courtroom and find a way to help him put his career back on track.
When Ella’s brother goes missing on one of Glacier National Park’s most dangerous peaks, Gage and his team are called in for the rescue. But Gage isn’t so sure he wants to help the woman who destroyed his life. More, when she insists on joining the search, he’ll have to keep her safe while finding her reckless brother–a recipe for disaster when a snowstorm hits the mountain.
Read an excerpt from “A Matter of Trust HERE.
Where to Purchase:
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Susan May Warren is the USA Today, ECPA, and CBA bestselling author of over fifty novels with more than one million books sold, including Wild Montana Skies and Rescue Me. Winner of a RITA Award and multiple Christy and Carol Awards, as well as the HOLT and numerous Readers’ Choice Awards, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic suspense, thrillers, romantic comedy, and novellas. She can be found online at www.susanmaywarren.com, on Facebook at Susan May Warren Fiction, and on Twitter @susanmaywarren.
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by admin | Jul 23, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Marriage, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Denise Hunter is one of the queens of Christian romance novels. It’s no wonder that some of her books have become Hallmark movies although like most readers I think the books are better! “Sweetbriar Cottage” is probably the most serious book I’ve read by this author but it still managed to hold my attention through each and every page.
The story of a divorced couple who discover they are still married due to a paperwork error, this novel probes the depths of emotion when Noah and Josephine are forced to spend days in close proximity due to a winter storm. Then an even graver situation requires them to rely on each other and personal secrets are revealed that help each of them gain a better understanding of each other.
The author took me through every high and low with her beautifully developed characters. Noah was a near perfect hero but a few negative traits kept him human. Josephine was so in need of encouragement to help her overcome her past – something Noah had never realized. I loved how the couple learned how to depend on each other during such adverse conditions and how that brought them closer together.
This is one of those books that you just have to read for yourself but it is well worth the effort. I will always recommend books by Denise Hunter because she writes about real life situations featuring flawed humans who need each other and a Savior.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Booklook Bloggers. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Noah and Josephine Mitchell discover their divorce was never actually finalized, their lives are turned upside down.
Following his divorce, Noah gave up his dream job, settling at a remote horse ranch in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northern Georgia, putting much-needed distance between himself and the former love of his life. But then Noah gets a letter from the IRS claiming he and Josephine are still married. When he confronts Josephine for the first time in months, they discover that she missed the final step in filing the paperwork and they are, in fact, still married.
Josephine is no happier about the news than Noah. Maybe the failed marriage—and okay, the botched divorce—was her fault, but her heart was shattered right alongside his, more than he would ever believe. The sooner they put this marriage behind them, the better for both of their sakes.
But when Josephine delivers the final paperwork to his ranch, the two become stranded in his cottage during the worst spring snowstorm in a decade. Being trapped with Josephine is a test of Noah’s endurance. He wrestles with resentment and an unmistakable pull to his wife—still beautiful, still brave, and still more intriguing than any woman he’s ever known.
As they find themselves confronted with each other and their shared past, old wounds surface and tempers flare. But when they are forced out into the storm, they must rely on each other in a way they never have before. Josephine finally opens up about her tragic past, and Noah realizes she’s never been loved unconditionally by anyone—including him. Will Noah accept the challenge to pursue Josephine’s heart? And can she finally find the courage to trust Noah?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Denise Hunter is the internationally published bestselling author of more than 25 books, including “The Convenient Groom” and “A December Bride” which have been made into Hallmark movies. She has appeared on the The 700 club and won awards such as The Holt Medallion Award, The Carol Award, The Reader’s Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and is a RITA finalist.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town love stories. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, inspired by the death of her grandfather, Denise began her first book, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she’s been writing ever since. Her husband says he inspires all her romantic stories, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
When Denise isn’t orchestrating love lives on the written page, she enjoys traveling with her family, drinking good coffee, and playing drums. Denise makes her home in Indiana where she and her husband have three boys and are rapidly approaching an empty nest.
You can learn more about Denise through her website www.DeniseHunterBooks.com or by visiting her FaceBook page at https://www.facebook.com/authordenisehunter
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