by admin | Sep 6, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
When Maven Morris is asked to foster an abandoned young boy with obvious behavior problems, she resists until she meets him and feels an undeniable connection. Maven begins to gain the boy’s trust and is beginning to love him when the unexpected happens and she finds herself in the middle of a deadly situation.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Deadly Intent” with its rapidly escalating suspense and tension. The story was well written with true-to-life characters. I liked the way Maven and Paul and their friends turned to prayer when they found themselves in seemingly impossible situations. The only complaint I have is that the story ended much too quickly.
This book was provided for review by the Pelican Book Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Everyone belongs somewhere. The key to happiness is recognizing that place when you get there.
Maven Morris has lost her way. A childless widow, she has no immediate family. Forced into a medical leave, she has no career. At loose ends, she hasn’t a clue what’s next for her.
Her neighbor, Paul Jordan knows what he wants-to move their friendship to a new level. Maven may not know what’s next, but she knows she has no interest in romance with anyone-not even her handsome neighbor.
When a young boy is abandoned in the city park, he touches Maven’s heart. In spite of his obvious special needs, she agrees to provide a foster home. She has no idea the impact he will have on her-or the danger he brings to her doorstep.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lillian Duncan writes suspense novels with a hint of romance. She believes books can be entertaining and uplifting at the same time. Along with novels, she writes devotions for ChristianDevotions.us. She lives in the middle of Amish country in Ohio with her husband and menagerie of pets, including four parrots, a Jack Russell Terrier and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel that she’s thinking about renaming Clifford–since he continues to grow and grow and grow… She’s been a speech-language pathologist for over thirty years. Most of those years were in the Cleveland Municipal School district where she worked primarily with deaf and hard-of-hearing students. As a writer, speech pathologist, and an educator, she believes in the power of words to change lives, especially God’s Word.
by admin | Sep 4, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Mars…with Venus Rising” is a sometimes serious, sometimes humorous, even sometimes a bit quirky, but always a fun and enjoyable read. Heroine Penn Davenport has allowed her life to be ruled by fear since the death of her parents and brother in a plane crash. She still lives with the two eccentric great aunts who raised her in a home filled with love and the wonderful fragrance of their baking. Naturally Penn would meet and fall for a totally unsuitable man, one who seems to live life on the edge and encourages Penn to loosen up a little. Can John Townsend help Penn overcome her fears and turn them over to God?
I thoroughly enjoyed reading “Mars…with Venus Rising” although the frequent food descriptions made me want to cheat on my diet. Fortunately for those who do not have to watch their sugar intake, the author has graciously included all of the tempting recipes described within the story, especially the Celebration Cookies and Cinnamon Rolls. I may just have to treat the rest of my family to the cookies soon.
With strong characters, a well-developed plot, and an excellent message about reliance on God, this story held my interest throughout. Although the author is new to me, I will definitely be keeping my eyes open for more of her books.
This book was provided for review by the Pelican Book Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A meddling horse, paper bag floors and a flying saucer on the town square. The little town of Mars has it all–including a brand new resident who might spell heartache for one of its own.
Twenty-something Penn Davenport yearns for an exciting life in the big city and wants to shed the label of orphan that she’s worn for years. To achieve that dream, she must pass the CPA exam then move away from the two aunts who reared her after her parents died in a plane crash.
When John Townsend-full of life and the joy of living-moves to town, he rattles Penn’s view of herself, her life, and her dreams…which isn’t such a bad thing until she falls for him and discovers he’s a pilot.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master’s degree in English and taught at East Carolina University as well as York Technical College. A member of ACW, RWA, and SinC, she has published articles on topics ranging from gardening with children to writing apprehension. She blogs for Almost An Author. Her first novel, Irish Encounter, was released in May, 2015. Hope loves flowers, real mail, live music, reading, crocheting, traveling, cooking, and volunteering. Connect with Hope at hopetolerdougherty.com.
by admin | Aug 30, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“A Splash of Substance” is a fun and witty contemporary romance that also delves into some pretty serious issues such as sustainable food and behind-the-scenes political manipulation. When Paige Jackson accepts a catering job for a senator’s fundraiser, she must work with Jackson Trent to plan it. Although both are Christians, each of them have such different ideas about what God has called them to do that they have very little common ground. Since this book is a romance, it is obvious that the pair will find a way to cross the divide between them. The misunderstandings, political intrigue, and even some scandal make the journey quite an adventure.
I found “A Splash of Substance” to be well written and a joy to read. The characters were realistic and endearing and I enjoyed reading about their romantic journey. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary Christian romance and look forward to this author’s future novels.
This book was provided for review by The Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She doesn’t vote. He works for a Senator. Is it a recipe for love or disaster? Paige Jackson has always stayed out of politics, leaving it to God to govern the world. She has enough on her plate as the owner of a catering company founded on convictions to buy local, sustainable fare. Jackson Trent works on Capitol Hill for Senator Carson, putting his beliefs in action to help shape national policy. Hoping to find high-end clients to keep her business afloat, Paige bids on a contract to cater the Senator’s next fundraiser. Shake-ups in the Senator’s staff leave Jackson grudgingly in charge of the event. After Paige is chosen as caterer, she and Jackson must work together despite opposing beliefs on how God calls Christians to participate in government. As Paige introduces Jackson to sustainable fare, it’s not just the food that piques his interest. When Senator Carson becomes front-page news in Washington, Paige is sucked into the whirlwind of scandal. Can Jackson convince Paige he wasn’t complicit and win her back or has politics burned his chance at love? Book One in a new series of Contemporary Christian Romance from Elizabeth Maddrey, A Splash of Substance is a heartwarming romance that also provides readers a chance to consider their views on the civic responsibility of Christians and sustainable living in the suburbs.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elizabeth Maddrey began writing stories as soon as she could form the letters properly and has never looked back. Though her practical nature and love of math and organization steered her into computer science for college and graduate school, she has always had one or more stories in progress to occupy her free time. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books and has mastered the art of reading while undertaking just about any other activity. She loves to write about Christians who struggle through their lives, dealing with sin and receiving God’s grace. Elizabeth lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. with her husband and their two incredibly active little boys. She invites you to interact with her at her website www.ElizabethMaddrey.com or on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMaddrey
by admin | Aug 25, 2015 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Postcard” may be one of the best Amish novels I’ve read in awhile. With a somewhat different plot than usual, the story points the reader in the direction of true faith in Christ rather than dwelling on the much belabored lifestyle of the Amish. I also liked the way the honest portrayal of many of the characters that included anger, violence, confusion, and even a little passion (nothing objectionable). I appreciate that she showed how the Amish have the same emotions as the rest of us instead of trying to idealize their culture.
The story of a young Amish man who moves to another town to meet the young woman who has been his pen-pal for awhile. He has fallen in love with her through her letters and feels that the Lord has led him to meet her even if she is engaged to another fellow. There are plenty of complications including Rachel’s resistance but their comfortable friendship is difficult for her to resist. The question remains – “Is Rachel meant to be more to David than a friend?”
I really enjoyed this book and will be looking forward to more by this author even if Amish fiction is not my preferred genre.
This book was provided for review by the Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
David Lapp (from Promised to Another) survived a “code blue” when he was in a buggy/semi truck accident in Seymour, Missouri. Now after extensive therapy he has lingering mobility problems and is still struggling to find his place in the world. Lured away from Webster County by thoughts of closed buggies and a postcard friendship he’s developed with an Amish girl in Jamesport, he moves north, hoping for a fresh start. He finds temporary work in the area teaching school, and also makes fishing flies and weaves baskets. He sells his products in the Amish markets in the Jamesport area. Rachel Miller dreams of travel, but feels tied to her Amish life. She is being courted by Mark Graber, but wonders if there’s more to life. When she sees David’s name mentioned in The Budget, she strikes up a pen pal friendship with David while he’s in the hospital and in therapy, consoling him when he and his girlfriend part ways. She never dreams that David will come north and move into her community. David is still fearful in the buggy, especially in high traffic areas. Feeling he’s called by God to preach, David spends hours in the Bible, but the Amish discourage him, believing their ministers should be drawn by lot. Will David follow his call, even if it takes him out of the Amish church? Will Rachel realize her dream to travel?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Award winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas. She is a pastor’s wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools three of her children. Her two oldest children are homeschool graduates and are in college. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor. Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts, and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love. Surrendered Love and Awakened Love. A nonAmish book Swept Away will release November 2014 from Abingdon Press. She is contracted for another three book Amish series with Whitaker House, The Amish of Jamesport, releasing in November 2014 (The Snow Globe), June 2015 (The Postcard), and November 2015 (The Birdhouse). A Christmas Amish book, A White Christmas in Webster County, will release in September 2014. Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. Laura is a professional book reviewer for the Christian market, with over a thousand book reviews published at various online review sites.
by admin | Aug 25, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Historical
MY REVIEW:
“The Greenfield Legacy” is the story of the women in one family who have been affected their entire lives by one decision made in the past. When mother Mattie brings them all together to somehow reveal the whole truth, response is not quite what she expected. That one decision caused ripple effects in the lives of her daughters and their families that could continue to create havoc if not stopped.
At times, this book was difficult to read and I also had difficulty relating to many of the characters. I did not like the attitudes of one in particular but as the story progressed, I was able to gain some understanding about why she acted that way.
This story is a very good example of how things are passed down from generation to generation if the cycle is not ended. It is a fine example of the power of love and forgiveness that can change lives.
This book was provided for review by The Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Mattie was in love with Billy, but she was too young to wed. When Billy was conscripted to fight in Vietnam, they made a decision that affected their lives and their future. But so much pain resulted that Mattie never really healed. Every turn Mattie made affected her daughter and her granddaughter in ways she didn’t even realize. But forty-six years later, is it time for things to be set right? Navy is a young woman who suddenly finds out about her family. But what could be a wonderful opportunity is met with jealousy and apprehension from her cousin, Brooke and her aunt Connie, especially with handsome Aidan around. Each must look past their struggles and find forgiveness and trust, and perhaps even love.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
South Australian Author, Meredith Resce, has been writing since 1991, and has had books in the Australian market since 1997. Following the Australian success of her “Heart of Green Valley” series, an English Publisher has taken the first three books in this series, and has released them to the British and American Christian Fiction markets. She recently released her 15th project, ‘The Greenfield Legacy’. Apart from writing, Meredith also takes the opportunity to speak to groups on issues relevant to relationships and emotional and spiritual growth. Meredith has also been co-writer and co-producer in the 2007 Australian feature film production, “Twin Rivers”.
With her husband, Nick, Meredith has worked in Christian ministry since 1983. Meredith and Nick have three adult children, one daughter and two sons.
Visit Meredith’s website www.meredithresce.com
Award-winning author, Paula Vince loves to evoke tears and laughter through writing fiction. She stirs her stories with mystery, romance, drama and suspense to create something delectably special. A wife and homeschooling mother of three children, she resides in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia, a beautiful spot for inspiration with its breath-taking scenery and four distinct seasons. For over ten years, Paula’s aim has been to provide quality faith-inspired fiction set in Australia. Her quest started way back when, as a Uni student, she discovered the writing of American Christian fiction authors. Her passion is to provide the same enjoyable reads highlighting her own country. “I’ve come to see that a story has its own awesome power to touch readers’ hearts in ways other genres do not. A story in which we grow to care for the hero has the potential to remain in our hearts for a long time. I love the challenge of making people laugh, cry and cheer.” After years of plodding on with minimal return, as Australian-based Christian fiction was regarded as something of an oddity, Paula’s efforts are beginning to bear fruit, at last. Her novel, “Picking up the Pieces” won the religious fiction section of the 2011 International Book Awards. Her novel, “Best Forgotten” was the winner of the 2011 CALEB Award in the fiction category, and also recognized as the best overall entry for the year, chosen over memoirs, devotionals and general fiction. Her most recent novel, “Imogen’s Chance” is an April 2014 release.
Amanda Deed grew up in the South Eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Australia, in a Christian home and found faith at an early age. Her faith has been a basis for activities in music and literature since her teen years. She has had many experiences as she toured Australia with worship bands, travelling into remote and beautiful areas of Australia. These experiences served to deepen her love of all things Australian. The culmination of her passion for her country, romance and her faith, resulted in the first of her novels in the historical romance genre, The Game. Now married, with three children, Amanda enjoys the variety of being a mother, administrator/book-keeper, musician and fiction writer. Amanda’s debut novel, The Game, was awarded the 2010 CALEB Prize for fiction.
Rose Dee was born in Ingham, North Queensland, Australia. Her childhood experiences growing up in a small beach community would later provide inspiration for her first novel. Rose, who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, decided to try her hand at writing two years ago. The result of that attempt is her first novel, ‘Back to Resolution’. Her novels are inspired by the love of her coastal home and desire to produce exciting and contemporary stories of faith for women. ‘Beyond Resolution’, and ‘A New Resolution’ are the second and third books in the ‘Resolution’ series. Rose resides in Mackay, North Queensland with her husband, young son, and mischievous pup, Noodle.
by admin | Aug 25, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Law Enforcement, Suspense
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingCold as IceSydney Lane PressbyM.K. Gilroy
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mark won’t claim he has done it all in the world of publishing, but he has packed boxes, edited manuscripts, made sales calls, created marketing plans, directed design and illustration, started companies, consulted, agented the works of others, and written advertising and catalog copy. He’s authored, compiled, and ghost written books that have landed on an array of bestsellers lists and sold millions of copies. His first ghost writing project, The Wal-Mart Way, was done for Don Soderquist, Sam Walton’s longtime right-hand man.
In early 2012 he put on a new hat as a fiction author. His debut novel, Cuts Like a Knife, was released in April 2012 and was met with rave reviews from USA Today, Fresh Fiction, Publishers Weekly, and other leading national reviewers. His second novel, Every Breath You Take, second in the Kristen Conner Mystery Series, released in Fall 2012 to similar acclaim. Kristen Conner returns in Cold As Ice, which releases in Fall 2014.
Gilroy has extensive writing credits. He scripted and served as creative consultant for a two-hour training video that was honored with the Award of Excellence by the International Television Association. He has compiled and written close to fifty books and penned hundreds articles and curriculum pieces for a variety of periodicals and publishers.
Gilroy and his wife Amy reside in Brentwood, Tennessee. Their six children are Lindsey, Merrick, Ashley, Caroline, Bo, and Zachary—the youngest has now headed off for college, so he and Amy are officially empty nesters.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Detective Kristen Conner is back on a new murder case. She’s still fighting with her sister—and no surprise, someone new wants to kill her! He was a pillar in his Chicago neighborhood: popular school teacher, devoted father and husband, political activist on behalf of underprivileged children—and a master gardener who liked to plant flowers in his neighbor’s yards. What wasn’t to love about him? Who would want him dead?
When Detective Kristen Conner lands the case she knows from day one who the key suspect is. That’s simple. The person most likely to kill you is someone close that you know and love. But the wife? She was always at her husband’s side and just as passionate about his causes as he was. No way could this loving wife and mother of three be a killer. Right? Mix in her on-again, off-again relationship with FBI Agent Austin Reynolds, a quick trip to New York City where Kristen helps her media-star sister for a new apartment—only to discover the body of a man who appears to have been executed by a professional killer on a run through Central Park—and Kristen Conner is once again swept into a world of danger, intrigue, and a confusing love life.
What she doesn’t know just might kill her.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Cold as Ice, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Detective Kristen Conner is dedicated to her job and becomes extremely frustrated if prevented from doing it. For that reason she balks at mandatory visits to a therapist and is pretty unhappy that she is surrounded by protection after accidentally nearly stumbling upon an execution in Central Park while on vacation. A murder in her mother’s neighborhood is at the top of her list and she has no time to be worried about the Russian mafia.
“Cold As Ice” is a suspenseful book with plenty of action and danger as one would expect when dealing with cold-blooded killers such as the Russian mob. That scenario kept things moving right along while the closer-to-home murder provided more insight into the actual detecting process by the homicide department. A little romantic misunderstanding and family dynamics add a touch of realism to the story.
Overall, I enjoyed “Cold As Ice” but might have liked it better if there hadn’t been so many different points of view. At times it came very close to being quite confusing. Other than that, it was a pretty good read and I would most likely be interested in the next book in the series.
