by admin | May 5, 2014 | Books, England, Historical, Mystery, Romance
MY REVIEW:
On the very first page I was pulled directly into the action that paved the way for an exciting story filled with danger and suspense, secrets galore, forbidden romance, and a quest for the family treasure. Many elements of the story brought to mind the gothic novels I loved when I was much younger and reminded me why I loved them.
Elizabeth Trelawney has endured several London seasons without securing a husband and the man her parents want her to marry frightens her. She is weary of men who are interested in her only for her family’s riches and her prime desire is to live her life under the security of her beloved Bastian Point, her grandparents’ home on the Cornwall coast. If she can only discover the family treasure quickly, she will be guaranteed to inherit.
Unfortunately, even Bastian Point is no longer the refuge she once knew. Murder and even an attempt on Elizabeth’s life are only part of the growing sense of danger that surrounds Bastian Point. In addition Elizabeth is increasingly drawn to Rowan Curnow, a man unsuitable for a woman of her station.
I loved every minute of “A Lady’s Honor” and found that the end came much too quickly. I liked both Elizabeth and Rowan and was as surprised as Elizabeth when I learned Rowan’s secret. It was also interesting knowing what the family treasure was and wondering how long it would take Elizabeth to realize it for herself. The plot was filled with several unexpected twists and a major turning point or two. One scene in particular made me want to cheer for Elizabeth.
All-in-all, “A Lady’s Honor” was quite satisfying and I look forward to future novels by Ms. Eakes.
This book was provided for review by the BookLook Blogger Program of Harper Collins Christian Publishing.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Society is concerned about her honor, but Elizabeth must realize her worth doesn’t lie in her inheritance.
In order to avoid a forced marriage to a dangerous man, Elizabeth Trelawney flees London. An unexpected stranger arrives to help her, and as they elude her pursuers across Cornwall in the night, Elizabeth realizes her rescuer, Rowan Curnow, is familiar.
Their differences in social status kept Rowan from pursuing a courtship with the lady his heart wouldn’t let him forget. Now because of dangerous smugglers and local murders, the two are plunged into a reckless alliance that rattles Rowan’s fledgling faith in God.
The closer they get to Bastian Point-Elizabeth’s true home-the more she realizes it is the only place she longs to be. Even the sight of its solid structure perched on the cliffs makes her feel safe. Elizabeth is the most likely to inherit Bastian Point if Grandfather never learns she spent the night, however innocently, with a near stranger.
As spring warms into summer, Elizabeth finds herself torn between wanting to be the perfect grandchild and her growing love for a man of whom no one will approve as a match for her, a man she knows she shouldn’t entirely trust. Unsure whether she is being foolish or following the right path, she sets out with Rowan on a quest to find the true culprit behind the local violence.
Their quest leads them to danger, and she must choose whether to follow the man she loves or cling to the safety of her family home.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
“Eakes has a charming way of making her novels come to life without being over the top,” writes Romantic times of bestselling, award-winning author Laurie Alice Eakes. Since she lay in bed as a child telling herself stories, she has fulfilled her dream of becoming a published author. To date, she has sixteen books in print with five more under contract for release over the next two years. Eight of her books have been published in large print editions, one as a Crossings Bookclub hardcover edition, and one book has been put into Braille.
A graduate of Asbury University with a degree in English and French, and Seton Hill University, with a masters degree in Writing Popular Fiction, she also writes articles in writers publications, teaches writing workshops, and gives inspirational talks.
She lives in Texas with her husband, dogs, and cats. She enjoys long walks, all too rare rainy days, and knitting—rather badly—while watching movies or listening to music.
Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaurieAEakes
Read excerpts from her books at: http://www.lauriealiceeakes.com
by admin | May 5, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have read and enjoyed quite a few novels by DeeAnne Gist over the past several years. One thing that comes to mind when I think about her books is the amount of humor that she manages to insert into her historical romance stories. “Fair Play” follows that general form with a moderate amount of levity but on the whole, its content is much more serious.
Set against the backdrop of the Chicago World’s Fair, the chapters open with actual photos taken either at the World’s Fair or in scenes comparable to those in the story. Billy Jack Tate is a woman doctor working at the fair while attempting to establish her own medical practice at a time when women doctors are frowned upon. Hunter Scott is a Texas ranger also working at the fair as a guard at the women’s building, a position he feels is quite below his personal qualifications. Hunter and Billy Jack clash repeatedly because of their different outlooks on men and women’s places in society but as can be expected, an attraction begins to grow between them.
The romance between Billy Jack and Hunter is well and good but to me the meat of this story was the contrast between the opulent buildings of the World’s Fair and the deplorable living conditions in the low income area that was nearby. The neglect and mistreatment of children were especially heart-breaking, especially the child left chained alone in an apartment while the rest of her family worked and the children thrown and kept in jail for minor infractions.
Most fiction has its heroes and villains and “Fair Play” had its share. Although the plot may have moved a bit slowly at times, it never failed to hold my interest. Dialogue between Billy Jack and Hunter was often amusing. They both held firm opinions but their hearts were compassionate. I loved the scenes about the development of the first city park and the dedication of the women at Hull House toward helping the children.
“Fair Play” was not the most entertaining and carefree novel I’ve read by DeeAnne Gist but as historical fiction, it is top notch. I recommend it highly.
This book was provided for review by Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, Inc.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Saddled with a man’s name, the captivating Billy Jack Tate makes no apologies for taking on a man’s profession. As a doctor at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, she is one step closer to having her very own medical practice—until Hunter Scott asks her to give it all up to become his wife.
Hunter is one of the elite. A Texas Ranger and World’s Fair guard specifically chosen for his height, physique, character, and skill. Hailed as the toughest man west of any place east, he has no patience for big cities and women who think they belong anywhere but home…
Despite their difference of opinion on the role of women, Hunter and Billy find a growing attraction between them—until Hunter discovers an abandoned baby in the corner of a White City exhibit. He and Billy team up to make sure this foundling isn’t left in the slums of Chicago with only the flea-riddled, garbage-infested streets for a playground. As they fight for the underprivileged children in the Nineteenth Ward, an entire Playground Movement is birthed. But when the Fair comes to an end, one of them will have to give up their dream.
Will Billy exchange her doctor’s shingle for the domesticated role of a southern wife, or will Hunter abandon the wide open spaces of home for a life in the “gray city,” a woman who insists on being the wage earner, and a group of ragamuffins who need more than a playground for breathing space?
Read an excerpt from “Fair Play” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Deeanne Gist has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very fun, original historical and contemporary novels. She has received three RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and rave reviews. With a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&M, Deeanne has written for People, Parents, and Parenting magazine. She has four grown children and lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband. Visit her online at IWantHerBook.com and at Facebook.com/DeesFriends.
by admin | May 3, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“One Perfect Spring” is a touching story that warms the heart and leaves the reader with hope. Each of the four primary characters’ lives have been affected in one way or another by the death of a spouse, catastrophic disease, or abandonment. The well-intentioned letter written by one young girl with a compassionate heart brought the four individuals together for a quest that would bring them healing, renewal, and even unexpected romance that they could never have imagined.
In contrast to Hannon’s dynamic suspense novels, “One Perfect Spring” is more like a leisurely stroll through the garden. Along the path, the reader gets to know each character intimately and can easily understand what motivates him or her. Interaction between characters was superb. I loved how each of them demonstrated care towards the others despite their own personal issues. Adoption is a prominent theme that is approached from several viewpoints which paints a broader picture than is usually portrayed. The plot contained several surprises, not all of them pleasant, but was all the more believable for that reason. The faithfulness of God is a theme that was woven unobtrusively through the story.
Fans of Hannon’s suspense novels should be sure to give “One Perfect Spring” a try also. She has shown herself to be a talented storyteller no matter the genre. I highly recommend this novel and hope that you will enjoy it also.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Independent single mom Claire Summers is doing her best to make lemonade out of the lemons life has handed her. Workaholic Keith Watson is interested only in the bottom line–until a letter from Claire’s eleven-year-old daughter reaches his desk and changes everything.
As the executive assistant to a philanthropic businessman, Keith is used to fielding requests for donations. But the girl isn’t asking for money. She wants help finding the long-lost son of a neighbor. As Keith reluctantly digs into this assignment in his usual results-oriented style, he has no idea how involved he and Claire will become–nor how unusual the results will actually be. Who could have guessed that a child’s kindhearted request would bring love and hope to so many lives . . . including his own?
Through compelling characters and surprising plot twists, fan favorite Irene Hannon offers this tenderhearted story that demonstrates how life is like lilacs–the biggest blooms come only after the harshest winters.
Read an excerpt from “One Perfect Spring” HERE.
Praise for That Certain Summer:
“The lives of these endearing characters intertwine over a summer and undergo change as Hannon has readers rooting for each of them in this uplifting story about love and redemption.”–Publishers Weekly
“A thoughtful tale that captures the reader from the very first pages. Irene Hannon knows the power of words and the miracle of faith.”–New York Journal of Books
“Efficient, beautiful storytelling and genuine, vulnerable, faithful characters are the strength of this story. This one simultaneously moves you to tears, makes you laugh, and leaves you speechless while warming your heart. A gem of a read.”–RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars
“Hannon creates characters that we can both relate to and root for; we learn from their lives as we are also entertained–the true mark of an amazing summer read.”–Hope for Women
“That Certain Summer is as much a women’s fiction title as it is inspirational romance. The story moves along at a steady pace, and the lives of the characters intersect with few surprises, yet it is in such a way that the beauty of ‘normal life’ takes on fresh dimension. A great weekend or rainy-day read, That Certain Summer will warm your heart and might even make you take a fresh look at some of the difficult relationships in your life.”–Serena Chase, USA Today Happily Ever After blog
“Hannon’s latest is a tender story that addresses how one action stemming from compassion can affect the lives of several people. Her expert storytelling taps at matters of the heart in lyrical, beautiful language, with sympathetic characters who will endear themselves to readers. A well-developed and inspiring plot, coupled with efficient pacing leaves readers with a sweet, heartwarming read.”–RT Book Reviews
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of more than forty romantic suspense and contemporary romance novels, including the Heroes of Quantico and Guardians of Justice series. Her books have been honored with two coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, a Carol Award, two HOLT Medallions, a Daphne du Maurier Award, two Reviewers’ Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine, a Retailers’ Choice Award, and a National Readers’ Choice Award. In addition, she is a Christy Award finalist, and Booklist included one of her novels in its “Top 10 Inspirational Fiction” list for 2011. Irene lives in Missouri. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.
by admin | May 2, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance, Southern
MY REVIEW:
As a lover of American historical fiction and a southerner, I found “The Pelican Bride” to be practically perfect. I have read hundreds of historical novels during my lifetime and I don’t remember ever reading one about the early settlement of the Mobile bay area. The facts about the French women aboard the Pelican who were brought in as wives was quite interesting as was learning about all the political and religious division during that period of our history.
I liked both Tristan and Geneviève and knew from the beginning that they would end up together. What else would one expect from a man and a woman who were both determined not to marry? Of course even with those expectations, it was quite enjoyable to read their story to discover how that all worked out. Set in what is now coastal Alabama, “The Pelican Bride” is a wonderful overview of the lives of those who settled the area and leaves little to the imagination about the hardships and life-threatening disease those settlers faced day to day. Yet in the midst of it, Tristan and Geneviève not only found true love but learned that God is faithful whether one is Catholic or Protestant.
A diverse group of other characters added depth and realism to the narrative. There were those who were honest and cared about others, some who were totally self-centered and irritating, and a few who were unscrupulous and dangerous. Danger lurks both within the walls of the fort and even more so in the area surrounding it. Both the French and the English want the land and both try to manipulate the native Indians to take their side. With a plot filled with secrets, betrayal, danger, and unexpected twists, “The Pelican Bride” was an intense but enjoyable read. I look forward to the next installment of this series.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She’s come to the New World to escape a perilous past. But has it followed her to these far shores?
It is 1704 when Frenchwoman Geneviève Gaillain and her sister board the frigate Pélican bound for the distant Louisiana colony. Both have promised to marry one of the rough men toiling in this strange new world in order to escape suffering in the old. Geneviève knows life won’t be easy, but at least here she can establish a home and family without fear of persecution for her outlawed religious beliefs.
When she falls in love with Tristan Lanier, an expatriate cartographer-turned-farmer whose checkered past is shrouded in mystery, Geneviève realizes that even in this land of liberty one is not guaranteed peace. Trouble is brewing outside the fort between the French colonists and the native people surrounding them. And an even more sinister enemy may lurk within. Could the secret Geneviève harbors mean the undoing of the colony itself?
Gulf Coast native Beth White brings vividly to life the hot, sultry South in this luscious, layered tale.
Read an excerpt from The Pelican Bride HERE.
Endorsements:
“Fresh as a gulf breeze, The Pelican Bride is the perfect pairing of history and romance. Finely tuned characters and a setting second to none make this a remarkable, memorable story. Beth White’s foray into colonial Louisiana is historical romance of the highest quality.”–Laura Frantz, author of Love’s Reckoning and Love’s Awakening
“Not your usual setting, not your usual historical romance–The Pelican Bride breaks new ground in the historical genre. Choosing to write a story set in the French colony that became Mobile, Alabama, draws the reader into a new and exciting period. A winning beginning to a new historical series.”–Lyn Cote, author of The Wilderness Brides series
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Beth White’s day job is teaching music at an inner-city high school in historic Mobile, Alabama. A native Mississippian, she is a pastor’s wife, mother of two, and grandmother of one–so far. Her hobbies include playing flute and pennywhistle and painting, but her real passion is writing historical romance with a Southern drawl. Her novels have won the American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award, the RT Book Club Reviewers Choice Award, and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award. Visit www.bethwhite.net for more information.
by admin | May 1, 2014 | Alaska, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I am probably the world’s biggest coward and I really, really don’t like heights. I am also getting a bit on in years for too much adventure but that doesn’t stop me from experiencing some excitement vicariously through my novels. The pages of “Silenced” were definitely filled with the kind of excitement I personally go to great lengths to avoid, especially mountain climbing.
Dani Pettrey describes the gorgeous Alaskan setting in all the books of her Alaskan Courage series so well that it almost makes me want to visit there. I enjoy reading about the McKenna family and their friends and like the way each of them makes an appearance in every book of the series. I will be sorry to see this series end. I loved watching Jake and Kayden’s relationship develop as they worked together. I especially liked the author’s portrayal of Jake that included his protectiveness toward Kayden as well as his integrity and strength.
The plot itself was one that kept me on my toes. There were several major surprises in the investigation and things took off in a totally different direction than I expected. Plenty of suspense, action and danger with some romance and a couple of weddings made “Silenced” a satisfying read. I liked that Jake gained some closure of his own during the story’s conclusion.
This book was provided by Bethany House, a division of
Baker Publishing Group for me to review as an author influencer.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Jake Knew Something Was Wrong.
But He Never Guessed How Wrong.
A relaxing day of rock climbing takes a disturbing turn when Kayden McKenna’s route brings her face-to-face with a dead climber. Is it a terrible accident or something darker? When the case is handed to overburdened sheriff Landon Grainger, he turns to Jake Westin for help. With Jake’s past now revealed, he’s ready to use his talent for investigation again–but he could never prepare for where the mystery will take him.
Kayden’s climbing expertise soon leads her and Jake to the realization that the death was no accident. And worse, it seems the killer is onto them. When strange things begin happening in Yancey, Jake is terrified that once again his world may put someone he loves in danger. But the truth is far worse than he could ever imagine.
Praise for the Alaskan Courage series
“Readers who enjoy Lynette Eason, Irene Hannon, and DiAnn Mills will add this to their to-read list.” Library Journal about Stranded
“I have not been this enthralled since the O’Malley series by Dee Henderson! Pettrey does such an excellent job of developing the character of each and every family member…” Christian Manifesto
“Hard-to-put-down romantic suspense with snappy dialogue, realistic characterizations and fast-moving intrigue.” Suspense Zone
Read an excerpt fro “Silenced” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the author of the bestselling romantic suspense novels Stranded, Shattered, and Submerged, winner of the 2013 Holt Medallion for First Novel and the Colorado Romance Writers 2013 Award of Excellence. She and her husband have two daughters and reside in the D.C. Metro area.
Twitter: DaniPettrey
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DaniPettrey
Website: http://www.danipettrey.com
by admin | May 1, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I was a subscriber to Love Inspired Suspense for years and always looked forward to receiving my four new books each month. I reluctantly gave up my subscription because the books began to pile up after I started reviewing Christian fiction. There just never seemed to be enough time to fulfill my commitments and read anything else. I do have a special affection for those books so I am always delighted when I am offered one to review. Kind of like having your cake and eating it too!
“Grave Danger” got off to a fast start with the discovery of a skeleton on the beach. As sheriff Wesley Grant and forensic anthropologist Ludia Muir work together to learn the identity of the victim as well as details concerning her death, they repeatedly find themselves in life-threatening situations. Some of the obvious clues lead them into more danger or on wild goose chases. At times it seemed that they were bound for the same fate as the victim.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Grave Danger”, especially the banter between the two primary characters. The romantic tension was perfect. The suspenseful plot built at just the right pace and the guilty party was not at all obvious as is sometimes the case. “Grave Danger” is a fine example of an excellent romantic suspense novel in a shorter form. I look forward to “Sunken Treasure”, book three in the Stepping Stones Island series.
A copy of this book was provided by the author for my honest review.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Book Two in the Stepping Stones Island Series releases May 2014!
BONES OF CONTENTION
When skeletal remains are found on a small Maine island, forensic anthropologist Lydia Muir is sent to investigate. It’s Lydia’s job to determine whether the homicide happened long ago—or more recently. Island sheriff Wesley Grant seems sure the murder didn’t happen on his watch. But when Lydia uncovers the victim’s identity, someone goes to great lengths to get Lydia off the island. Wes vows to protect her, but is the handsome lawman holding something back? To help catch a killer, she’ll have to trust him—or become the next victim.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
As an Inspirational Romantic Suspense author, Katy Lee writes higher-purpose stories in high-speed worlds. Through her writing, ministries, and teaching, she dedicates her life to sharing tales of love, from the greatest love story ever told to those sweet romantic stories of falling in love. Katy and her husband are born New Englanders, but have been known to travel at the drop of a hat along with their three children. But www.KatyLeeBooks.com is where you can find Katy anytime.
