by admin | Jun 6, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, International Intrigue, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
When I elected to review “Wilderness Rising” I did not realize it was a sequel to “The Church Builder”. Since I had not read the first book, I decided to pick up a copy to read while I was waiting for this one to arrive. I am so thankful that I did. I would have been mostly lost if I had not already read “The Church Builder”. The series is about a centuries-long battle between two opposing groups, the Wilderness and the Garden. One group is composed of atheists and the other of supposed believers. Unfortunately, in their ongoing war, both sides are often less than ethical and casualties are just part of the battle.
Bethany Barclay has unwittingly become the central focus of the battle after being set up by one of the groups who hope she can find the ancient relic her best friend had possibly found before her own death. With the FBI and other law enforcement agencies determined to find her because they believe she is a terrorist, Bethany has followed her friend’s trail to England in hopes of finding the Pilate Stone. With both the Garden and the Wilderness after her as well as other unknown parties, Bethany’s life has become surreal with never a moment to feel safe but she is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery because another young person’s life is also in danger.
There is so much going on in both “The Church Builder” and “Wilderness Rising” that I was often confused. I decided that the author probably planned it that way to give the reader a sense of Bethany’s confusion and desperation as she raced against time for her own life as well as Janice’s. Jam-packed with action, danger, and suspense, “Wilderness Rising” raced to a strong finish with plenty of surprises along the way.
I enjoyed both volumes of the Church Builder series and would recommend them to all who enjoy suspense that keeps the reader on the edge of the seat and never sure what will happen next. Both are lengthy novels but I found myself unable to put them down.
This book was provided for review by the BookLook Blogger Program of Harper Collins Christian Publishing.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
From A. L. Shields-pseudonym for New York Times best-selling author Stephen L. Carter-comes the thrilling sequel to The Church Builder.
An age-old struggle between the enemies of God and the champions of faith.
A rumored relic that could prove Christ performed miracles-or declare him a fraud.
A woman on the run from international authorities.
Bethany Barclay is fighting to outwit the Wilderness, an ancient and powerful cabal bent on destroying Christianity. Its members murdered her best friend, framed her for acts of terrorism, and captured the brilliant teen hacker she vowed to protect. To ransom the girl, Bethany must find the Pilate Stone-a mysterious first-century artifact that might not even exist.
But she’s not the only one looking for the stone. In an international landscape of double agents, Bethany finds it impossible to tell friend from foe. The Garden, a secret group of powerful intellectuals sworn to save the Church and help Bethany, is collapsing under the rising power of the Wilderness. And an ocean separates her from her only proven ally-the lone wolf Ray Fuentes, who has battles of his own to fight.
A sparse trail of breadcrumbs takes Bethany across Europe into a labyrinth of academics, art historians, and followers of a reclusive monastic order. As her quest transforms into an ever more complex and dangerous game, unlikely actors in the drama emerge. Some are ruthlessly devoted to preserving a world where faith is possible. Others aim to brutally, and finally, undermine belief.
Including her own.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A. L. Shields is a pseudonym for Stephen L. Carter, William Nelson Cromwell Professor of Law at Yale, where he has taught for thirty years. He is also the author of seven acclaimed works of nonfiction and five best-selling novels. His first novel, The Emperor of Ocean Park (2002), spent eleven weeks on the New York Times best seller list.
by admin | Jun 6, 2015 | Books, Historical, Key West, Revell, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Although I tend to not be a very adventurous person, I certainly enjoy reading about the adventures of others. The heroine of “Love’s Rescue” is the kind I most enjoy. Elizabeth Benjamin is not the usual Southern belle who loves dressing up for afternoon teas and evening balls but would rather run barefoot on the beach and sail the ocean in her brother’s skiff. Although she know her parents had other plans for her future husband, the only man who ever caught her attention was wrecker Rourke O’Malley, a man of whom her family would never approve.
Elizabeth’s return to the Florida Keys after her mother’s death was not particularly welcomed by her father who seemed all the more determined to force a marriage to a man she disliked. The demands of her also makes life miserable. Then the discovery of her mother’s secret journal reveals things that Elizabeth finds difficult to believe but has not choice. The question is, “Can Elizabeth stand up for what she believes is right even if she has to go against her father?”
With a dashing hero, a strong and determined heroine, and a cast of other characters who are essential to the tale, “Love’s Rescue” was a welcome evening’s entertainment. The well-paced plot delved into such subjects as disability, the treatment of slaves, adultery, and forgiveness. There was plenty of adventure, danger, and romance to go around. An emphasis on forgiveness, including oneself and dependence on the Lord was a welcome inclusion.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Love’s Rescue” and look forward to reading more books by this author.
This book was provided for review by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can a girl enamored with the adventurous seas ever be content with the tame life of a Southern belle?
When her mother dies, Elizabeth Benjamin heads home to Key West, determined to transform herself into the perfect Southern belle her parents always wished her to be. But nothing goes according to plan. Her brother resents her, the servants do not obey her, and Rourke O’Malley, the dashing man she vowed to forget, refuses to relinquish his hold on her heart. Worst of all, it becomes painfully obvious that her father is not the man he appears to be.
As family secrets come to light, Elizabeth is faced with a difficult choice: to perform her duty and abandon her dreams, or to leave her life of privilege behind to chase the man her father sees as little better than a pirate.
From the first emotional page, author Christine Johnson throws you into a world of impossible choices, hidden desires, and heart-melting romance in the steamy South.
Read an excerpt from “Love’s Rescue” HERE.
Where to Purchase:
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
by admin | Jun 1, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingJustifiedDavid C. Cook (June 1, 2015)byVarina Denman
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
An avid reader and blogger, Varina Denman enjoys writing fiction about Christian women and the unique struggles they face. She seems to have a knack for describing small town life, and is currently working on the three-book Mended Heart Series. The first book in the series, Jaded, won the 2013 ACFW Genesis contest for romance.
Varina attended three Texas universities over a span of five years, majoring in four subjects and earning zero degrees. However, she can now boast sixteen years as a home educator, volunteering in the local cooperative where she has taught numerous subjects including creative writing and literature.
Even though Varina has spoken at ladies’ retreats and taught women’s Bible classes, she finds the greatest fulfillment facilitating prayer groups. She lives in Burleson, Texas, where she helps with Family Ministry in her home congregation. Varina is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and North Texas Christian Writers.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In a small Texas town ruled by gossip, Fawn Blaylock believes others are justified in condemning her untimely pregnancy. Stifled by guilt, she yearns for grace while the local football coach treats her with gentle respect.
Justified perfectly captures the rhythm and romance of life in a small town, telling the unforgettable story of a woman searching for renewal, a man looking beyond what others see, and a community torn between judgment and love. It is the unforgettable story of broken dreams, second chances, and relentless hope.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Justified, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Justified is the second book in Denman’s Mended Hearts Series. The story seems to overlap the one that began in the first novel Jaded, and contains most of the characters introduced there. Fawn Blaylock is the featured character in Justified so readers will learn more about her story as well as those of Tyler, JohnScott, and Clyde. An added bonus is catching up with what is going on with Ruthie, Dodd, Grant, and several others.
When I read Jaded, I was not particularly impressed with Fawn’s character. In fact, she seemed to be one of those stuck-up, rich mean girls who are not very pleasant to be around. As I got deeper into this novel, it was easier to see the real person inside who was insecure and always seeking to gain her father’s approval. And who would ever have guessed that the popular head football coach JohnScott had his own lack of confidence, especially when it came to women? It’s also humorous to me that I didn’t like Ruthie nearly as well from Fawn’s point of view.
Justified is a novel laced with drama, romance, and family secrets. I found myself a bit aggravated with certain characters at times but I feel that it is an indication of a well-written book when I can get that involved with the characters. This novel deals with some hard topics such as abusive relationships and out-of-wedlock pregnancy but the situations are handled well. I liked how the author didn’t take the easy way out at the end by letting a particular character die but used the event to pave the way toward forgiveness and redemption.
by admin | May 30, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Once again Katy Lee has invited me to visit the Stepping Stone Islands where Gretchen Bauer has agreed to allow a home improvement television crew film an episode at her Victorian house in hopes that they can restore it in time to open her Bed and Breakfast. Unfortunately, it seems that her fellow islanders are not in favor of her plans and someone wants her dead or injured.
Irish television host Colm McCrae did not exactly impress me at the beginning because of his flippant attitude. It didn’t take very long, however, for Colm’s true colors to show themselves even if it took Gretchen awhile to trust him. Of course with her experience with men, who could blame her if she never trusted another one?
Katy weaves a fine suspense in this short Love Inspired novel with more than adequate character development and an attention-holding plot. With plenty of action, danger, romance, and surprises, “Permanent Vacancy” further convinced me that Katy Lee’s novels are not to be missed.
This book was provided for review by the author.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Gretchen Bauer begins renovating an old Victorian house to turn it into a bed-and-breakfast, she barely escapes several dangerous “accidents” at her home. Colm McCrae, host of the home improvement TV show helping her renovate, refuses to believe these aren’t on purpose. Could this be a harmful ploy by his boss to boost ratings? Yet with Colm’s smooth-talking Irish brogue, Gretchen wonders whether he could be involved. But with a whole town full of neighbors disgruntled about the inn bringing strangers to their shores, Gretchen has a list of more likely suspects. Now she must trust Colm if she wants to keep her new business venture from turning into a five-star death trap.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Katy Lee writes suspenseful romances that thrill and inspire. She believes every story should stir and satisfy the reader–from the edge of their seat. A native New Englander, Katy loves to knit warm wooly things. She enjoys traveling the side-roads and exploring the locals’ hideaways. A homeschooling mom of three competitive swimmers, Katy often writes from the stands while cheering them on.
Visit Katy at: www.KatyLeeBooks.com.
by admin | May 29, 2015 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Texas
MY REVIEW:
Although I’ve never been there, there is a special place in my heart for Texas. I’m not sure exactly why – maybe all the westerns I watched with my Dad as a kid. But even the books that don’t feature cowboys appeal to me because I know enough people who live in Texas to know that they are not all on the ranch. Cabot’s Texas Crossroads series has no cowboys in particular but is really fun to read.
I loved “On Bluebonnet Lake”, the first book of the series, and I have enjoyed revisiting the Rainbow’s End resort to catch up on its characters and to see how things are going with the renovations. In the second book of the series, “In Firefly Valley” I was introduced to two new characters, Marisa, daughter of the resort cook Carmen and Blake, a friend of Greg, the resort owner.
Blake is a best-selling novelist who has hit the dreaded writer’s block and decided to try his friend’s somewhat isolated resort to see if it might boost his creative juices. Marisa has recently lost her job and has moved back to her hometown to take what she hopes will be a temporary job at Rainbow’s End. Of course regular readers of romance can guess that the two of them will end up together but what fun would that be without a good story leading up to happily-ever-after?
Marisa has numerous issues she needs to deal with – especially unforgiveness toward the alcoholic father who abandoned her and her mother. Her attitude is less than stellar and it doesn’t take very much to set her off. Despite his success, Blake has his own less than ideal childhood memories that have more influence on him than he wants to believe. During the course of the book, each of them must deal with their past and move on to be the people God designed them to be.
“In Firefly Valley” is an easily read and enjoyable book. The pace is unhurried with little action or suspense, but is more like a relaxing escape. For true lovers of romance, there is a bonus love story that is nearly as enjoyable as the one between Marisa and Blake. This is the perfect book for a weekend at the lake, beach, or the mountains. It is even the perfect book for relaxing with at home.
This book was provided for review by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
She’s lost her dream job–but has she found the man of her dreams?
Devastated by a downsizing, Marisa St. George has no choice but to return to the small Texas town where she grew up. Though it means a giant step backward, she accepts a position as business manager at the struggling Rainbow’s End resort. The only silver lining: Blake Kendall, a new guest who might make her believe in love at first sight. But will Marisa’s dreams of happily-ever-after be turned upside down when she discovers Blake’s real identity?
This warm and witty story of dreams deferred and mistaken identity will have you believing in second chances.
Praise for Amanda Cabot
“Amanda is a master at creating authentic characters with foibles and dreams.”–Jane Kirkpatrick, New York Times bestselling author of A Light in the Wilderness
“Uplifting and inspiring, the story speaks to the way nostalgia wisely finds a place in the modern world.”–Publishers Weekly starred review of At Bluebonnet Lake
by admin | May 29, 2015 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Florida
MY REVIEW:
I have read two or three Amish books lately with a setting in Pinecraft, Florida. It has been both eye-opening and refreshing to read about Amish and Mennonite life there. I can just see the young people in their traditional attire walking around in flip-flops! Shelley Shepard Gray takes the freedom of the beach a step further by featuring a character who is somewhat of a Mennonite celebrity. I can honestly say that is not something I would have ever imagined.
Both Penny and Michael have experienced tragedy in their lives so when they become acquainted, they immediately sense a bond. Michael is especially attracted to Penny’s innocence and caring personality. At an age when most people their age are already married with children, Michael and Penny have not had a chance for courtship or love because of family expectations. They meet at a time when each of them has grown dissatisfied with their lives and are yearning for independence.
“The Proposal at Siesta Key” is a sweet love story that is not without a few hurdles. The characters are all quite likeable and natural. I liked the way Penny and Michael honored their parents while working to break the apron strings. Their quiet faith was an important part of their story but did not come across as preachy.
I highly recommend this novel as well as all of Gray’s books. Lovers of Amish fiction will certainly enjoy it.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A young Amish woman, yearning for freedom, crosses paths with a handsome Mennonite celebrity in a deeply moving tale of friendship and self-discovery—the second installment in the unforgettable New York Times bestselling author’s new Amish Brides of Pinecraft series.
Penny Troyer rarely disobeys her parents. In the years since her sister’s tragic death, they’ve wanted nothing more than to keep her safe…even if it means never leaving the house.
But tonight, she’s bending the rules because Michael Knoxx, the most famous member of The Knoxx Family Singers, a traveling Mennonite Evangelical family —is scheduled to speak. Penny has heard of Michael—how he lost part of his leg in a terrible accident and uses the experience to inspire others—and knows she must meet him. So, for the first time ever, Penny stands up to her parents and goes out on her own.
Though he speaks about living life to the fullest, Michael knows he needs to take his own advice. Life on the road is grueling and Michael wants to slow down, to rest…to perhaps meet someone who sees him as a man, not just a celebrity. So when a twist of fate allows him the chance to stay a little longer in Pinecraft, Michael knows God is showing him a new path, especially when he discovers how much he and Penny Troyer have in common.
But new friendships can’t stop time. Soon, Michael’s time in Pinecraft will be over and he’ll be back on the road. Her time with Michael has brought her happiness, but will she be able to follow her heart? Or will she be faced with the one thing she’s sure she’ll never have the courage to do?
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shelley Shepard Gray is a two-time New York Times bestseller, a two-time USA Today bestseller, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time Holt Medallion winner. She lives in Southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.
Find out more about Shelley at http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
Christine Johnson is the author of several books for Steeple Hill and Love Inspired and has been twice named a finalist for Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart® award. When not writing, she loves to hike and explore God’s majestic creation. These days, she and her husband, a Great Lakes ship pilot, split their time between northern Michigan and the Florida Keys.
