by admin | Nov 22, 2014 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
Melody Carlson has a gift of taking the ordinary and giving it an entirely new twist. She has managed to do this once again in her latest YA novel, “Trading Secrets”, a story about penpals, one Amish and one Englisch who finally have a chance to meet after corresponding for several years.
There is only one catch, Micah’s Amish penpal Zach believes she is a guy and she has not found a way to tell him the truth. A trip to his family home exposes her secret and the response is not exactly positive. Every attempt to return home early meets with a problem and she is forced to spend more than one extra day with Zach’s family and his mother is less than welcoming.
I enjoyed Micah’s visit to “Amishland” as well as getting an intimate look into Zach’s life from his own point of view. The story is fresh and honest with ample drama, emotion, and humor with just a tiny touch of potential romance. I am uncertain whether a sequel is planned for “Trading Secrets” but its ending leaves it wide open for one. I would love to find out if a more serious relationship develops between Micah and Zach in the future.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The truth may set you free–but it might also land you in some uncomfortably hot water.
Over the years, Micah Knight has exchanged many letters–and many secrets–with her longtime Amish pen pal, Zach. But Micah’s kept quiet on the biggest secret of all–the fact that despite her name, she’s a girl.
Now Micah finally has the chance to meet her pen pal face-to-face. She wants nothing more than to experience life on Zach’s Amish farm, but she’s more than a little anxious. Will he be angry at her for deceiving him all these years? And will she risk losing his friendship to find something more?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of more than two hundred books, including the Dating Games series, the Life at Kingston High series, Double Take, A Simple Song, and My Amish Boyfriend. She has received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice. Melody and her husband live in Oregon. Learn more at www.melodycarlson.com.
by admin | Nov 20, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
I was not sure what to expect when I realized that this book was about a TV reality show competition. I mean, how lame could that be? That was pretty much my son’s reaction when he saw me reading it. Well, I am here to tell you, it may be about reality television but it is a story that has heart.
With a setting that should be quite familiar to fans of the “Survivor” series, “Last Family Standing” chronicles Monica’s experience as a reluctant competitor. How difficult would it be to meet the daughter you gave up for adoption over twenty years later in front of millions of viewers on a popular TV show? Monica rises to the challenge because she wants to meet that daughter no matter what it takes.
I enjoyed reading all the behind-the-scenes details as well as the interaction between the characters, both competitors and staff. Monica turned out to be a very special person whose approach to life was authentic and caring – even if she did tend to be a klutz. The story is filled with both drama and humor plus a touch of romance. I could say more but find it difficult to avoid doing so without spoilers – and we know how readers hate those.
“Last Family Standing” is a wonderful, positive story that you will not be sorry you read.
This book was provided for review by the Amazon Vine program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Every family has drama . . . but it doesn’t usually play out on national television.
Twenty-five years ago, Monica gave up a baby girl for adoption. Now, the thing Monica didn’t dare hope for has happened: Jessica has reentered her life… and wants to meet her. There’s just one catch: the reunion must happen on a reality TV show. Though Monica has hesitations, she’s willing to swallow her pride—and a few other unsavory items—if that’s what it takes to connect with her daughter. Between the unpleasant surprises of nature, the awkward tension with other cast mates, and her desperate attempts to do or be anything remotely athletic, Monica quickly learns that reality bites… hard. It all might make for good TV, but it isn’t very helpful in building relationships. As she stumbles through challenges and faces buried emotions and regrets, Monica wonders if she can be what her daughter wants and needs—and is that more than just a teammate? Can Monica and Jessica ever really be the Last Family Standing?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
When Jennifer isn’t spinning tales, she can be found reading, spending time with family and friends, and singing at the top her lungs to whatever happens to be playing on the radio. Her novels include The Love of His Brother (Five Star, 2/07), The Pastor’s Wife (Abingdon Press, 2/10), The Mother Road (Abingdon Press, 4/12) and A Wild Goose Chase Christmas (Abingdon Press, 11/12). Diamond in the Rough, Vanishing Act, and Curtain Call make up the historical romance series co-written with Lisa Karon Richardson, and released by Whitaker House. Comfort and Joy, part of the Mistletoe Memories novella anthology, released 9/13 from Barbour House. Future novels from Abingdon Press are Last Family Standing (9/14) and Vinnie’s Diner (4/15). Jennifer is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Christian Authors Network, and the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance.
Jennifer resides in the grace-filled city of Las Vegas with her family. Visit her website at www.jenniferallee.com
by admin | Nov 18, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Spiritural Warfare, Supernatural, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I was unfamiliar with this author so when I received the book from Amazon’s CreateSpace, I was just a tad unsure whether I had made the right choice to review it, especially since my calendar seemed to be filling up much too quickly. I am happy to say that I did make a very good choice. I thoroughly enjoyed “Destiny Defied” – so much so that I stayed up well past 2:00 a.m. in order to finish it.
“Destiny Defied” is a page-turner for sure. A supernatural suspense, this novel features four college guys who have been friends for many years. A week on a deserted island seems just the thing for a fun and relaxing vacation for them until they discover an injured young woman who has washed up on shore. Their fun and games turn into a mysterious and dangerous adventure that challenges their faith.
While there is emphasis on spiritual warfare, “Destiny Defied” presents the gospel in an uncompromised manner. I believe that the way the “Fearsome Foursome” interacted with Riki had to be one of the best examples of living your faith that I have ever encountered in the many books I have read.
J.A. Marx has made a new fan here. I cannot wait until “Destiny Delivered”, the sequel to “Destiny Defied” is released.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A dramatic shipwreck emancipates Riki Hammad, but the island where she finds refuge is compromised. Unless she finds a power truly great enough to defeat her dark past, she will choose death over returning to captivity. Lord Vétis, high priest of a cultic underground, will stop at nothing to reclaim their chosen one. Using black magic, he manipulates Riki and her four self-assigned bodyguards, triggering a battle that consumes the entire island. The underground will never allow Riki to live out her dreams of a normal life…something she has never known.
Learn more and purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
J.A. loves writing embattled spirit novels — adventure and suspense with supernatural undertones. On the side, she dabbles in non-fiction articles and e-zine editing. J.A. owes many thanks Jerry Jenkins and the Christian Writer’s Guild for their support and education.
Find out more about J.A. at http://online.jamarx.net.
Frank Peretti meets a modern day Treasure Island! {And Kindle Giveaway!}
Welcome to the series launch of J.A. Marx‘s Destiny series. Book one, Destiny Defied, is a chilling tale of freedom from oppression and the Light that overcomes the dark.
J.A. is celebrating the launch of her series with a Kindle giveaway and a Facebook author chat party on December 2.
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire
- Destiny Defied by J.A. Marx.
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 12/2. Winner will be announced at the Destiny Defied Facebook author chat party on December 2nd. RSVP for a chance to connect with J.A. Marx, to chat about the book, as well as to win some great prizes!
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}
RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 2nd!
by admin | Nov 13, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Native American, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I have recently added yet another author to my Must Read list thanks to the Amazon Vine Review Program. I recently read and reviewed Lisa Carter’s “Beneath a Navajo Moon” and loved it so I jumped at the chance to review her latest novel “Under a Turquoise Sky”. I was NOT disappointed.
“Under a Turquoise Sky” is a riveting suspense novel that takes place primarily on Navajo land in New Mexico. Kailyn Eudailey has witnessed the murder of a good friend by men suspected to be leaders of a Mexican drug cartel. Because her life is also in danger, Aaron Yazzie is called in to protect her. The novel opens quickly with suspense, danger, and action and continues in that vein for awhile. Then there is a lull where the characters seem to relax just a bit with just a hint of the potential for danger under the surface. Then all of a sudden everything erupts into total chaos again with Aaron and Kailyn unsure if they will survive.
I enjoyed everything about “Under a Turquoise Sky”. The plot moved along at a good pace with just the right amount of action, drama, suspense, and romance with even a bit of humor inserted at the perfect times. Interaction between Aaron and Kailyn was believable and had me rooting for them to get together despite their obvious dislike of each other at first. The plot was full of surprises with unexpected twists along the way. I also enjoyed having characters from the previous novel pop up in the story from time to time. Although it is primarily a suspense novel, the author deftly wove a gospel message throughout the story without it being overbearing.
Now that I am familiar with Lisa’s novels, I plan to keep my eyes open for all of her future books. If you haven’t read anything by Lisa Carter, I suggest you check her out.
This book was provided for review by The Amazon Vine Review Program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When federal agent Aaron Yazzie is assigned to protect the only witness to a drug cartel execution, he hides Kailyn Eudailey in the safest place he knows . . . the vast, untamed wilderness of the Navajo Reservation.
Transporting Kailyn to New Mexico may not be as easy as Aaron would like. Kailyn is a high-maintenance Southern belle who is determined to assert her independence at every step. Although Aaron’s job is to protect her from the dangers that could get them both killed, Kailyn is getting to him. As an undercover agent, Aaron has grown adept at playing many roles. But will he be able to embrace his true identity and God’s plan for his life in order to keep Kailyn alive?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Carter is the author of Carolina Reckoning and Aloha Rose, and a writer and teacher whose articles have appeared in FamilyFun, Thriving Family, MomSense, and Christian Parenting Today. She is a frequent speaker and vocalist at women’s ministry events and has taught at the collegiate, high school, and middle school levels. Lisa is a member of ACFW, RWA and Sisters in Crime. When she isn’t writing, Lisa enjoys traveling, quilting, and researching her next romantic adventure. She and her husband have two daughters and make their home in Raleigh, North Carolina. Visit her online at LisaCarterAuthor.com.
by admin | Nov 13, 2014 | Books, Chicago, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
In “Pound Foolish”, the Jackson’s fourth book in their Windy City Neighbors series, the reader is offered another side of the ongoing parallel story from the unique viewpoints of Greg and Nicole Singer. Included are such hot topics as job loss, marital miscommunication, submission of wives to their husbands, and the prosperity gospel, to name just a few. A valuable lesson about what is most important in life and how God really blesses His children, “Pound Foolish” can be read as a stand-alone novel but would be enjoyed even more after reading previous novels in this series.
I will be honest and admit that at times I had difficulty staying with this particular novel. I really did not care for Greg Singer at all. He was a know-it-all who made increasingly unwise choices for his family while refusing to listen to any input from his wife Nicole. Of course Greg was the very definition of the book’s title “Pound Foolish”. My familiarity with previous books of this series as well as other books by the Jacksons encouraged me to press on so I did finish the book. Needless to say, I was rewarded with the usual wisdom I have found in all their novels and witnessed spiritual growth and a restored marriage by the end.
I like the way each novel focuses on different members of the neighborhood. While Estelle Bentley has played a prominent supporting role in some of the other books of this series, her husband Harry had a pivotal role in “Pound Foolish”. Harry’s spiritual maturity, support, and advice were invaluable to Greg’s positive outcome. In my opinion, each and every one of the Jackson’s novels is an entertaining way to gain priceless Christian wisdom from fictional situations that emulate real life. Readers cannot go wrong with any of their novels.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Pound Foolish | Book Four in the Windy City Neighbors series (Castle Rock Creative, October 2014)
Greg Singer coordinates consumer sports shows for powerboats, four wheelers, snowmobiles, and jet skis-macho toys for outdoor men like himself. But the job puts tremendous stress on his marriage with Nicole, who for the first time notices the handsome lawyer at the end of the block. “Greener pastures?” When the recession hits Greg’s industry, he thinks the crisis is merely an opportunity for God to bless him with unmatched prosperity, a promise he hears preached each Sunday, and he steps out in bold faith . . . But is he being “pound foolish”?
The fourth in the Windy City Neighbors series, Pound Foolish explores the economic upheaval and uncertainties challenging every family. Intersecting with Penny Wise (book three), the Jacksons employ the innovating storytelling technique of “parallel novels.” Though each book follows its own drama and story arc, the characters’ lives become intertwined and affect one another. Pound Foolish returns us to Beecham Street-a typical American neighborhood . . . where a growing friendship brings new meaning to prosperity.
Learn more and purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Dave and Neta Jackson are award-winning authors living in the Chicago area where their parallel novels from the Yada Yada House of Hope and Harry Bentley series are set.
As a husband/wife writing team, Dave and Neta Jackson are enthusiastic about books, kids, walking with God, gospel music, and each other! Together they are the authors or coauthors of over 100 books.
Find out more about Dave and Neta at http://www.daveneta.com/.
by admin | Nov 7, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
MY REVIEW:
I am most familiar with Amanda Cabot’s historical novels but as I have enjoyed each and every one of them, I felt certain that I would also enjoy “At Bluebonnet Lake”, her latest novel which is contemporary fiction. I am happy to confirm that I did indeed enjoy every page.
I have a tendency to love books set in Texas, both historical and contemporary so “At Bluebonnet Lake” immediately had that going for it. I also tend to like stories with cowboys in them. Greg is NOT a cowboy. In fact he is a software designer who has made a fortune with the company he recently sold. Cowboy or not, Greg is just the right hero material for this book and I quickly forgave him for not being a cowboy. I liked the fact that Greg appeared to be an ordinary person like everyone else and no one knew how wealthy he was. Despite his wealth, he still battled deep-rooted insecurities instilled in him as a child.
On the other hand, Kate was an up-an-coming marketing guru with an eye on a partnership in the near future. With that goal in sight, she was not at all excited about spending an entire month in such a backwoods, run-down resort but her love for her grandmother kept her there. I will admit that I did not care very much for Kate at the beginning, but it didn’t take long at Rainbow’s End for her true colors to shine. Her interaction with the resort staff and people in the nearby town revealed a compassionate heart and a desire to help others. Kate’s drive and ambition stemmed from a desire to prove herself worthy.
There were so many things to like about this book. The characters were lifelike and quite likeable for the most part. Kate’s grandmother was a joy with just the right touch of wisdom and youthful determination. The plot moved along at a good pace and had a few surprises in store including a bonus romance. Faith was an integral part of the story but was never intrusive. The end was as expected but all the fun was getting to it.
“At Bluebonnet Lake” is about two very different people – one who has made it to the top of his field and is searching for a more simple life and one who is still driven to achieve the goal they have set before them. So what happens when these two meet and fall in love? Can they really find a future together? Will either be willing to even compromise their dreams for the other? I guess you will have to read the book to find out but I guarantee that you will enjoy the journey to learn their fate. I look forward to the next book in this series.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Her life is set to warp speed. His is slowing to a crawl. But love has its own timing.
Marketing maven Kate Sherwood’s world is fast-paced, challenging, and always changing. The last thing she wants to do is grind to a halt at Rainbow’s End, a dilapidated resort in the Texas Hill Country. Still, she cannot deny her ailing grandmother’s request to visit the place where she and her deceased husband spent one glorious week fifty years ago. There, Kate meets Greg, who appears to be the resort’s unassuming handyman. But there’s more to Greg than meets the eye–billions more, in fact.
Kate isn’t looking for romance, but she can’t deny the sparks of attraction that fly every time she and Greg are together. Could there be a future there? Or will Kate’s long-sought promotion take her back to the big city?
Amanda Cabot invites you to step into a place away from the pressures of the day. You might be surprised by what you find at Rainbow’s End.
Endorsements
“Two insecure overachievers meet in an unlikely setting and find themselves confronted by upside-down and inside-out questions: What, and who, is truly important in life? Anyone who loves a story of transformation (and who doesn’t?) will thoroughly enjoy Amanda Cabot’s At Bluebonnet Lake, set in the beautiful Hill Country of Texas.”
Suzanne Woods Fisher, award-winning, bestselling author of The Inn at Eagle Hill series
“Kate Sherwood has given up chasing rainbows of romance to concentrate on her career goals, but then she comes to Rainbow’s End, where love is in the air. In At Bluebonnet Lake, readers are sure to enjoy Amanda Cabot’s characters and her Texas Hill Country setting, a place rich in atmosphere and romance.”
Ann H. Gabhart, author of Angel Sister, Small Town Girl, and Love Comes Home
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of the Texas Dreams series, Christmas Roses, Summer of Promise, and Waiting for Spring. Her books have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Awards and the Booksellers Best. She lives in Wyoming. Find out more at www.amandacabot.com.
