State of Lies by Siri Mitchell

by admin | Sep 16, 2019 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Political, Suspense

MY REVIEW:

I have been familiar with the author’s historical romance novels so I was a bit surprised to find her latest one a psychological/political suspense. I do love suspense novels so I was pleased to have the opportunity to read State of Lies.

Almost from the beginning when Georgie’s husband is killed in an accident, the story takes on a mysterious twist as she discovers inconsistencies about his death and strange things begin to occur at her home. As she attempts to discover what is going on it becomes evident that someone wants her dead also.

I enjoyed the book with its convoluted twists and unusual agenda. Several surprises were in store, especially the ending.

Warning:  Readers who expect their Christian fiction to have a strong message of faith will be disappointed and others will find the inclusion of more than one sensual but non-explicit scene to be objectionable.

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:

The secrets of those closest to us can be the most dangerous of all.

Months after her husband, Sean, is killed by a hit-and-run driver, physicist Georgie Brennan discovers he lied to her about where he had been going that day. A cryptic notebook, a missing computer, and strange noises under her house soon have her questioning everything she thought she knew.

With her job hanging by a thread, her son struggling to cope with his father’s death, and her four-star general father up for confirmation as the next secretary of defense, Georgie quickly finds herself tangled in a web of political intrigue that has no clear agenda and dozens of likely villains.

Only one thing is clear: someone wants her dead too. And the more she digs for the truth, the fewer people she can trust.

Not her friends.

Not her parents.

Maybe not even herself.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Siri Mitchell is the author of 14 novels. She has also written 2 novels under the pseudonym of Iris Anthony. She graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and has worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri is a big fan of the semi-colon but thinks the Oxford comma is irritatingly redundant. Visit her online at sirimitchell.com; Facebook: SiriMitchell; Twitter: @SiriMitchell.

A Powerful Secret by Kevin Lemans & Jeff Nesbit

by admin | Apr 20, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Political, Suspense

MY REVIEW:

Suspense-filled, political intrigue novel “A Powerful Secret” grabbed my attention and held it throughout its pages. Set within the ranks of the rich, famous, and powerful movers and shakers, this story provides an inside view of what goes on behind the scenes of both politics and commerce.

Book two of the Worthington Destiny series features Sean, the second Worthington son. Although immensely successful on his own, Sean has never felt that he met his father’s approval and tends to compensate by his wild and crazy, thrill-seeking adventures. Yet when his older brother suddenly drops out of an important Senate race and it becomes apparent that someone wants to destroy his family, Sean risks everything to get to the bottom of it.

Not only is this a good suspense-filled novel but the character development is excellent. The authors do a wonderful job of illustrating family dynamics and how relationships between parents and children, brothers, and sisters affect each of their lives. In “A Powerful Secret” old family secrets come to light that could destroy them all.

While this novel is the second of the series, I had no problems following it. Reading the first book would probably add background but I did not feel that I missed anything crucial. For those who enjoy political intrigue, “A Powerful Secret” would be a good choice.

A copy of this book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Sean has always felt like an outsider in his own family.
Now he must risk never achieving what he wants most–his father’s love.

Billionaire globe-trotter Sean Worthington is stunned when his older brother suddenly abandons the Senate race in New York and walks away without a backward glance. As campaign manager, Sean’s left to handle the media feeding frenzy with no answers. Worse, their father–as usual–backs Will, the “perfect” son.

Frustrated by his father’s lack of belief in him, Sean determines to finally move on and forge a unique path. But when a powerful secret is revealed, threatening everything Sean has counted on, he must wrestle with shocking truths . . . and combat the power brokers behind the scenes who have the Worthington family in their crosshairs.

Read an excerpt from “A Powerful Secret” HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Dr. Kevin Leman is an internationally known psychologist, radio and television personality, and speaker who has taught and entertained audiences worldwide with his wit and commonsense psychology. He has made house calls for hundreds of radio and television programs, such as Fox & Friends, The View, Fox’s The Morning Show, Today, Dr. Bill Bennett’s America in the Morning, 700 Club, CBS’s The Early Show, James Robison’s Life Today, Janet Parshall, CNN’s American Morning, and Focus on the Family, and has served as a contributing family psychologist to Good Morning America.

A bestselling and award-winning author, Dr. Leman has written more than 50 books about marriage and family issues, including The Birth Order Book, Sheet Music, Making Children Mind without Losing Yours, and Have a New Kid by Friday. He is coauthor, with his son Kevin Leman II, of a series of illustrated children’s books for each child in the family. He is also featured on 6 video series on marriage, parenting, blended families, and single parenting.

Dr. Leman and his wife, Sande, live in Tucson, Arizona. They have five children and two grandchildren.

Jeff Nesbit is a former communications director to the vice president at the White House, served as the director of public affairs for two prominent federal science agencies, and has been a national journalist with Knight Ridder Newspapers. He is the author of 20 novels. Cocreator of the Emmy award-winning Science of the Olympic Winter Games and the Science of NFL Football video series with NBC Sports, Jeff is executive director for Climate Nexus and writes “At the Edge,” a weekly science column for U.S. News & World Report.

Persecuted by Robin Parrish

by admin | Jul 5, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Political, Suspense

MY REVIEW:

Written as a companion book to the movie by the same name to be released in July 2014, “Persecuted” probably doesn’t have the usual plot and character development readers of Robin Parrish novels have come to expect. Nevertheless the story very likely will fill in gaps missing from the film due to the very nature of its format. Despite the fact that the book reads much like an action movie, it was one that held my attention and proved to be very thought-provoking.

In my opinion, this story is not so much about the persecution of Christians but legislation that could lead to future persecution. I felt that the main focus here was the lengths those in power will go to shut down those who stand against them, especially if those people carry any influence over others. This story is one that could happen in today’s government and similar situations may already have occurred, unknown to the public. Just watching the national news allows glimpses into possible behind-the-scenes corruption and machinations.

“Persecuted” had a fast moving plot with lots of action and suspense. Ryan was a good example of how easily some people can be manipulated and John Luther was a man we would do well to emulate. We must stand up for what we believe before it is too late.

This book was provided for review by FlyBy Promotions Blogger Network.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The Question Is Not IF Attempts Will Be Made to Limit Religious Freedoms, But When

The most popular evangelist of his day, John Luther, simply wants to share the Gospel and enjoy a quiet life with his family. He never asked to be at the center of a political controversy, but an ill wind has been blowing through the halls of Congress, and supporters of a new religious-equality bill see Luther’s endorsement as critical. But when Luther refuses to lend his support, he unknowingly sets in motion an explosive plan bent on destroying his reputation and undermining everything for which he stands. His once-normal life is turned upside down as he becomes a fugitive left with only one dangerous option–putting everything he holds most dear at risk while he fights to expose the truth. It is a mission that brings him face-to-face with the coming storm of persecution that could threaten the very fabric of our nation’s freedoms.

Bethany House Publishers presents Robin Parrish’s official novelization of the Daniel Lusko film, Persecuted. Available in cloth hardback, trade paperback, and ebook formats.

Read an excerpt from “Persecuted” HERE.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robin Parrish is a journalist who’s written about the intersection of faith and pop culture for more than a decade. He’s also the author of Offworld and The Dominion Trilogy . Robin and his wife and children live in North Carolina. Visit Robin’s website…www.robinparrish.com

GIVEAWAY:
I have one copy of “Persecuted” to give away. Please leave a comment on this post by Monday, July 14 for a chance to win.

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Hidden in Dreams by Davis Bunn

by admin | Aug 2, 2012 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Political, Suspense

MY REVIEW:

I consider it a privilege that I have had the opportunity to read and review two new novels within the past two weeks by one of my favorite authors Davis Bunn. There is never a moment’s hesitation when I am offered one of his books because I know without a doubt that I will soon be in for a unique and enjoyable reading experience.

“Hidden in Dreams” did not disappoint. Although a sequel to Bunn’s earlier novel “Book of Dreams”, this novel can easily stand on its own merit; however for background on the primary character Dr. Elena Burroughs, I would highly recommend the previous book.

In “Hidden in Dreams” Elena has settled comfortably into a seaside home in Florida where she has accepted a teaching position at a small Christian university. When she is contacted unexpectedly by the sister of her recently deceased friend, Elena soon finds herself drawn into the very center of a rapidly escalating situation that places her in the spotlight before the entire world. A number of apparently unrelated people, including Elena, are having identical dreams that appear to be prophetic of a worldwide financial disaster. Because of her professional position as an expert on dreams, Elena is appointed as spokesperson for the group which also includes her professional nemesis. Is it possible for them to work together to prevent the impending disaster?

With a plot that at times is uncomfortably close to current events, “Hidden in Dreams” is a skillfully crafted story with a blend of prophecy, conspiracy, suspense, and a touch of romance. Unexpected twists and numerous surprises provided momentum as the pages turned. The strong message of faith with an emphasis on prayer added hope to a somewhat bleak situation.

I liked the fact that with the exception of one or two people, there was always the question of who could be trusted. I did feel that in the case of the romantic triangle, the author may played it safe. I could see definite possibilities (and probably more exciting ones) if Elena’s final choice had been different. Nevertheless, the story had a satisfying ending even if I might wonder “What if?” I would rate “Hidden in Dreams” 4-1/2 stars for that reason alone. Otherwise it was a unique and exciting tale that will leave many readers wondering about the truth behind our real financial crisis.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Just when the world’s foremost expert on dream analysis, Dr. Elena Burroughs, thinks she is getting her life back under control after losing her position at Oxford University and the man she hoped to fall in love with, she is approached by Rachel Lamprey, the product manager of an innovative new ADHD treatment about to hit the market.

Rachel asks for Elena’s help with a clinical trial participant who has had a disturbing dream foretelling a cataclysmic global financial collapse. But even more alarming is the fact that fifteen people scattered across the globe—including Elena herself—begin to experience the same repetitive, devastating dreams of economic ruin just as one bank crisis follows another, suggesting that these aren’t merely dreams.

As Elena searches for answers in her professional networks, she is forced to form an unlikely alliance with her most vehement critic and is drawn back into the spotlight as the public face of the so-called dreamers. As Elena and her collaborators attempt to discover the dreams’ source, the clock ticks down to devastation. Suddenly, it’s no longer just about the dreams. It’s about survival.

Read Chapter 1 of Hidden in Dreams for free – CLICK HERE.

Reading Group Guide for Hidden in Dreams – CLICK HERE.

Video Book Trailer for Hidden in Dreams

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Davis Bunn is an award-winning novelist whose audience spans reading genres from high drama and action thrillers to heartwarming relationship stories, in both contemporary and historical settings. He and his wife, Isabella, make their home in Florida for some of each year, and spend the rest near Oxford, England, where they each teach and write. Visit Davis at www.davisbunn.com.

A Conversation with Davis Bunn                        

 Q: How much research did you have to conduct to write this intriguing story?

 A: In a way, I suppose you could say I’ve been researching this story all my adult life. I did my studies in international economics and finance. Observing the difficulties our nation and economy has faced over the past three years, as well as what we personally have endured, has been tough. It really was great to have this chance to give voice to what we increasingly hear, that the people at fault need to be brought to justice, and the risk of another economic collapse needs to be halted.

Q: Why is it important for you to write about such timely themes?
A: Economic uncertainty defines the world we live in. I feel it is important to show how the timeless and eternal messages are applicable to every aspect of our world and our lives. And how the gift of peace and wisdom can be used in every circumstance we face.

Q: When you wrote Book of Dreams, did you have plans for this sequel, Hidden in Dreams?

A: Two months after Book of Dreams was released, I had the call every author dreams about and yearns for—a vice president of NBC/Universal suggested we discuss the possibility of turning it into a television series. I was put in touch with one of their producers and over the next six months began working up the basic structure of what this program might look like. One of the ideas I found most appealing became the basis for Hidden in Dreams. There is as yet no firm decision about the television project. But it has been a blast to even be considered.

Q: In writing a sequel it’s always a challenge to include enough back story to satisfy those who haven’t read the first book while still making sure the book stands alone. How do you approach this dilemma?

A: You’re right, it can indeed be troublesome, but this time it all fell together very easily. The structure just flowed. That sometimes happens, where the story seems to create itself. I wish it was true all the time. I can’t even say why it was such a smooth process with Hidden in Dreams. But there was a sense of impatience about the back story, as though I needed to fit in just a few paragraphs, but I couldn’t allow myself or the reader to be drawn too far from this new story’s flow.

Q: Why did you choose to end Elena’s relationship with Antonio? They seemed like a good couple.

A: For this story to work, Elena needed to enter into the dilemma as vulnerable as all the other people who shared the recurring dreams. She was isolated in a new place and forced to be dependent upon her faith and newfound friends.

Antonio (from Book of Dreams) belonged to a different universe, far from what was happening here. I had to make a choice at the outset. Would she remain with Antonio, and the two of them experience this together? Or would she be isolated?

Writing a new story is all about two things: facing the empty page, and choices. It is kind of fun to go back and revisit decisions I made eighteen months ago, when first outlining this concept.

Q: You’re writing about two women in this novel. Is it ever a challenge to write from the female point of view?

A: Learning to write from a woman’s point of view is very difficult for a male writer, as it usually is for a woman author writing a man’s story. Before I was published, I became friends with a husband and wife team who were both opera stars. The woman often sang a male role in a Mozart opera that was originally designed for a young boy, but which nowadays is usually sung by a woman with a slightly lower range, called a coloratura.

I discussed my difficulty with her, of trying to make my women sound real. She told me that my trouble stemmed from working on a woman character from the outside. It wasn’t about making women ’sound’ anything. It was all about making the character live from the inside-out.

As I worked on the point of view issue, trying to put my friend’s challenge into practice, I also began going into any meeting with a woman carrying a secret tape recorder, and taping everything that was said. I then went back and wrote out every word. It was perhaps the most boring month of my entire writing career.

But gradually I found that I could ‘hear’ the speech patterns of these women, and reshape them into structures that fitted around what was happening in my stories. And through this exercise, the emotional content that lay behind the dialogue, the person who was expressing herself, became more real, more solid.

And then I met my wife, Isabella. And the process of instruction at the intimate level of a God-centered marriage began to unfold.

Q: In Hidden, Elena and her colleagues are attacked in Miami. After the attack, why did Elena not take more precautions? 

A: Elena had a choice to make, and so did I. Either she could play the delicate flower – fearing everything and going nowhere – or she could go on the hunt. I liked the balance between her internal fears and uncertainties, and her quest as a professional psychologist. She is, in effect, trained to look for clues – to go on the quest of drawing out the hidden. I felt the actions she took, despite the dangers, to be her natural response.

Q: Is there another Elena Burroughs book planned?

A: I have another idea. The question is, what do the readers want, and how positive is the reaction to this story?

Q: Why do you write fiction?

 A: I became a believer at age 28. Up to that time, ever since graduating, I had been working in international business. I came to faith while working as a consultant in Germany. I started writing two weeks later. Up to that point, I had never picked up a pen in my life to write anything longer than a business report. But I had always been an avid reader. And the moment I started, that very first instant, I had the sense of invitation. It was the first time I had ever experienced that incredible sense of being drawn in a new, divinely inspired direction.

I wrote for nine years and finished seven novels before my first was accepted for publication. Simply because I had received a sense of calling did not mean I was ready to serve. First the diamond had to be polished. Hard and painful as that was.

Q: While you are a prolific writer, you also get out there and live too! What’s been your most exciting real life adventure?

A: It would probably be better to ask, what has been the most exciting real-life event so far this year. Undoubtedly that would be working on the set of a film being shot from a screenplay I wrote last year.

Unlimited has now ‘wrapped’, that is, filming has been completed. The producer and director are now deep into the editing process. The film is due for release in September, 2013. I am currently working on the novel, which comes out a couple of months before then.

I had the whole thing backwards here, doing the script first, but it has been a lot of fun, and the concept remains very fresh. So hopefully Unlimited will come alive on the page as well as the screen.

Q: What is your goal as a novelist?

A: I want to combine a truly entertaining read with a powerful after-effect. My dream is that long after the book is set down with a satisfied sigh, there are still images that surface, lessons that can be drawn, genuine hope and healing and challenges and inspirations. I want my writing to be worthy of the gift.

Q: How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website and blog are at www.davisbunn.com

Subscribe to my blog’s feed (to get my latest posts via e-mail or through your feed reader) at http://feeds.feedburner.com/DavisBunn

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