by admin | Jul 8, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Native American, Spiritural Warfare
MY REVIEW:
I will be honest – I only accepted a copy of “Shaman’s Fire” for review because it seemed to be one that was not being requested very quickly. I can also honestly say I had no idea what I was getting but am so glad that I requested it.
It did not take very long to find myself totally immersed in the Native American culture of southern Oregon. Most of the characters are Christian but a few are strongly pulled toward a dark and dangerous spiritual world that includes powerful spells, hallucinogenic drugs, and shape-shifters.
“Shaman’s Fire” is probably the best novel depicting spiritual warfare that I have read since Frank Peretti’s “This Present Darkness” although there is very little resemblance between the two novels. The suspenseful plot moves along at a fast clip and is filled with more scripture than is usually contained in most fiction. This book only highlights some of the dark spiritual forces present not only in Native American culture but also around everyone. As Christians we need to be more aware of the spiritual realm and learn to fight for our families and country.
A copy of this book was provided for review by The Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A singer, a death, a shaman…what has Sayla Whitewater gotten herself into? Shaman’s Fire is a modern-day suspense story of a young Native American woman who struggles to find her identity as she moves between the ancient traditions of her people and the beliefs of the merging white world. She discovers magic in the shaman’s fire but, too late, she discovers such magic demands a price. Is it possible that the God of her grandmother is the same Creator her ancestors worshiped?
Shaman’s Fire is a story of choices and how the known world can change in an instant. It’s a story of injustice…a story of heartbreak…and a story of restoration.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sandy Cathcart is a freelance writer, photographer and artist, as well as a scribe for Restoring The Heart Ministries (A Native American Online Magazine). She lives in the High Cascades of Southern Oregon with her husband, The Cat Man, where she writes about Creator and everything wild.
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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.
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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.
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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:
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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.
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by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
“Fading Starlight” was not what I expected but that is not a bad thing. It is actually a beautifully written novel that reveals some of the ways our choices can affect others and how it always pays to do the right thing – even if there are no discernible immediate results.
After a televised wardrobe malfunction tanked her promising fashion career, Lauren found herself without a job or much hope for one. Taking a low-paying job that included housing in a small town, Lauren hoped for a chance to regroup out of the spotlight. She is soon contacted by a reporter who claims to have proof that Lauren was not at fault for the wardrobe accident but her offer comes with strings attached. Tempted to cooperate with the reporter, especially after a couple of unpleasant encounters with her nearby neighbor, Lauren gradually realizes that the reporter is using her and decides to stand by her values.
I really enjoyed “Fading Starlight” with its focus on fashion design and old Hollywood. I had to admire Lauren’s determination to keep her integrity no matter the cost. Although at times that cost seemed to be too high, doing what was good and true paid off in the end. I love how God tends to reward those who attempt to follow His standards. I also liked the fact that this was not a romance novel although there was just a hint of it toward the end.
All-in-all, “Fading Starlight” was an excellent read that held my interest all the way through. Strong characters and an equally strong plot were realistic and compelling. I highly recommend this novel.
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Her Big Shot Blows Up on Her,
How Far Will One Woman Go to Regain Her Dream?
Lauren Summers is in hiding. Her fashion house internship was supposed to launch her career, but a red carpet accident has left her blackballed. The only job she can find comes with little pay, but at least it offers a free place to live–a rundown cottage in the shadow of a cliff-side mansion. Planning to live on savings until she figures out what’s next, she’s unprepared to be contacted by a reporter.
Kendall Joiner is researching Charlotte Montgomery, a former Hollywood ingénue who lives a reclusive life in the cliff-side mansion. Rumors have swirled for decades about Charlotte, and now Kendall wants to find the real story. In return, she may just have the key to getting Lauren back into the fashion world. Desperate to get her life back on track, Lauren’s not sure she can turn down the offer–but as she and Miss Montgomery get to know more about each other, Lauren realizes nothing is quite as it seems.
Read an excerpt from Fading Starlight HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Photo courtesy of Doug Ellis Photography
Kathryn Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. She is the acclaimed author of over a half-dozen novels, including Leaving Yesterday and A Promise to Remember, which were both finalists for the Carol Award in Women’s Fiction. Kathryn and her family make their home in Santa Barbara, California.
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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 
