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 | Sep 4, 2015 | Books
MY REVIEW:
“The Lost Heiress” is the first book I’ve read by Roseanna White but it most definitely will not be my last! This author has such a way with words that I felt a part of the story. A perfect blend of Gothic mystery and romance, this novel ended much too quickly for me.
I loved both Brook and Justin, friends from childhood who suddenly found that their relationship had evolved into more than just friendship but were not certain what to do about it. The romantic tension was perfect as Justin wrestled between duty and following his heart. I also liked how he was willing to sacrifice for Brook’s sake, even if it meant loss for himself.
“The Lost Heiress” is beautifully written with a strong plot and characters. Plenty of drama, mystery, danger, humor, and romance work together to make this a joy to read. I look forward to the next book in this series “The Reluctant Duchess” and plan to acquire copies of White’s earlier books asap.
This book was provided for review by Bethany House and the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Sweeping Romance and Mystery in the Edwardian Era
Brook Eden has never known where she truly belongs. When her friend Justin uncovers the fact that she is possibly a missing heiress from Yorkshire, Brook leaves the sun of the Mediterranean to travel to the moors of the North Sea to the estate of her supposed family.
The mystery of her mother’s death haunts her, and though her father is quick to accept her, the rest of the family and the servants of Whitby Park are not. Only when Brook’s life is threatened do they draw close–but will their loyalty come too late to save Brook from the same threat that led to tragedy for her mother?
As heir to a dukedom, Justin is no stranger to balancing responsibilities. When the matters of his estate force him far from Brook, the distance between them reveals that their friendship has grown into something much more. But how can their very different loyalties and responsibilities ever come together?
And then for a second time, the heiress of Whitby Park is stolen away because of the very rare treasure in her possession–and those who can save her still aren’t sure who to trust.
Read an excerpt from “The Lost Heiress HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of nine novels, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her new British series. Roseanna lives with her family in West Virginia. Learn more at www.RoseannaMWhite.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 28, 2015 | Books, England, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I did not know what to expect when I agreed to review Kate Breslin’s second novel “Not by Sight”. All I knew is that her first novel had created a storm of hate and controversy, most of which was most likely undeserved. I will find that out for myself because after reading “Not by Sight” I absolutely must read “For Such a Time”. If Breslin’s skill is as pronounced in it as in “Not by Sight”, it simply must be superb.
The story itself is wonderful with captivating characters who inhabit England during the course of World War 1. The pages abound with drama, espionage, courage, friendship, and romantic tension that work together so well that I didn’t want to put my copy down to attend to the mundane demands of real life. Much of the story is described in beautiful and poetic prose that captivated my imagination. The title itself is a clue to what is inside the covers as both Jack and Grace must learn for themselves what it means to walk by faith and not by sight.
I cannot recommend this book enough. It is definitely in the running for my favorite of the year.
This book was provided for review by The Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Gripping Sophomore Novel from a Rising Historical Romance Talent
With Britain caught up in WWI, Jack Benningham, heir to the Earl of Stonebrooke, has declared himself a conscientious objector. Instead, he secretly works for the Crown by tracking down German spies on British soil, his wild reputation and society status serving as a foolproof cover. Blinded by patriotism and concern for her brother on the front lines, wealthy suffragette Grace Mabry will do whatever it takes to assist her country’s cause. When she sneaks into a posh London masquerade ball to hand out white feathers of cowardice, she never imagines the chain of events she’ll set off when she hands a feather to Jack.
And neither of them could anticipate the extent of the danger and betrayal that follows them–or the faith they’ll need to maintain hope.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A Florida girl who migrated to the Pacific Northwest, Kate Breslin was a bookseller for many years. She is the author of For Such a Time and lives with her husband in Seattle, Washington. Find her online at www.katebreslin.com.
by admin | Aug 27, 2015 | Amish, Books, Historical
MY REVIEW:
Although there are certainly elements of romance within the pages of “Brightest and Best”, two of them in fact, the real story is about what happens within the Amish community during the early twentieth century when the state of Ohio attempts to “consolidate” the Amish children into the public school system.
Based loosely on true historical events, the author does a marvelous job of helping her readers understand a bit more about the Amish and why they believe as they do about the need to educate their children within their own community. She also illustrated how prejudice is not always fueled by race but by difference in religion or culture. Excellent character development and a plot laced with conflict, a bit of mystery, romance, and a touch of humor work together to make “Brightest and Best” a very enjoyable book. Even if neither romance turns out quite as expected, I believe that makes this story even more believable.
This book was provided for review by the Barbour Review Crew.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The collapse of a schoolhouse puts pressure on Amish families and their long-held educational values. Ella Hilty anticipates marrying Gideon Wittner and becoming a mother to his children. In a whirling clash of values, Ella seeks the solid ground that seems to have slipped away. Margaret Simpson, an English schoolteacher, wonders if she is losing her last chance at love. As the local authorities draw lines in the sand, Margaret puts romance at risk one final time. All eyes turn to Ella to make a sacrifice and accept a challenge that can bring unity to the Amish and understanding to the English.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Olivia Newport is the author of The Pursuit of Lucy Banning and The Dilemma of Charlotte Farrow. Her husband and two twentysomething children provide welcome distraction from the people stomping through her head on their way into her books. She chases joy in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where daylilies grow as tall as she is. Find out more at www.OliviaNewport.com.
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