by admin | Mar 14, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Love Inspired, Romance, Suspense
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingMemory of MurderLove-Inspired SuspensebyRamona RichardsABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A word from Ramona:
The hardest biographical sketch to write is always your own, whether or not you’re a writer by profession. You can’t decide what to throw in, what to leave out, and whether or not you should list strengths and flaws, or just strengths.
I like writing and telling stories so much that I once tried to live out a few. After getting a master’s in English, I went on to be the seneschale of my local Society for Creative Anachronism. I had a rocky start, but I did get better. (Robin Hood, eat your heart out.)
People often ask members of the SCA, “Are you in a play?” so I thought it would be fun to do that, too. For seven years, I produced and performed in shows staged by Nashville’s Circle Players.
Although I’m single now, I married in 1982 and in 1987 had Rachel. She’s a cutie. Severely disabled, she’s the heroine of many an article for Special Ed Today magazine. Rachel’s nurse, Phyllis, is the real life heroine of “An Act of Desperation,” which I sold to Chicken Soup for the Caregiver’s Soul.
I’m not really a complex person, and my dreams are fairly straightforward: sell books, have enough money to pay the bills and travel a bit, and settle into a cottage. In early 2006, I bought the cottage, which is now more or less swamped by books and DVDs. I write at night (I’m a lifelong night owl), and I occasionally escape by scuba diving, hiking, dancing, and going to movies and bookstores.
I’ve gone to the same church since 1993, and I even sing in the choir. It’s a small but awesome church. I’m no angel, although occasionally I play one in the backyard.
I like staying busy. Life is too short not to follow your dreams.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
THE SECRETS OF HER PAST COULD IMPERIL HER FUTURE
Lindsey Presley certainly can’t imagine why anyone would want her dead-though she knows she wouldn’t be alive today if not for the local cop who saved her from two murder attempts. Deputy Jeff Gage has worked difficult cases, but with only Lindsey’s fractured memories of a broken past to guide him, this is by far his most challenging.
For Lindsey, fleeing the town she has come to call home is unthinkable. Separately, they are vulnerable, but together, Jeff and Lindsey just may stand a chance of catching a ruthless killer.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Memory of Murder, go HERE.
Watch the book video trailer:
MY REVIEW:
Memory of Murder is one of those stories that hits the ground running and barely slows down enough for the reader to catch her breath before the climatic conclusion. Combining heart-racing suspense with a growing romance, Memory of Murder unites the best of two worlds in a novel that kept my attention until the last page. With likeable primary characters who have enough baggage to keep them real and an escalating plot that gives very little away, Memory of Murder showcases the superb skill of the author as well as what makes the Love Inspired Suspense novels my favorites for a quick but satisfying read.
When Lindsey Presley’s life is suddenly threatened for unknown reasons, her friend Jeff Gage, a local deputy takes it upon himself to keep her safe. As the pair work together to discover why she has been targeted and who is behind the threats, Lindsey is forced to relinquish some of her self-reliance and learns to depend on others as well as the Lord. Jeff also has issues of his own to work through as their bond grows closer through their trials.
I thoroughly enjoyed Memory of Murder and plan to go back to read the previous books in the series that feature Lindsey’s two sisters. If you enjoy romantic suspense and like novels that can be read in just a few hours, pick up a copy of Memory of Murder for an excellent introduction to the Love Inspired Suspense novels.
by admin | Mar 14, 2013 | Books, Historical, Romance, Western
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Swept Away
Bethany House Publishers (March 1, 2013)
by
Mary ConnealyABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.
The Lassoed in Texas Series, Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.
The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist.
Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.
The Sophie’s Daughters series. Doctor in Petticoats, Wrangler in Petticoats, Sharpshooter in Petticoats.
She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, Nosy in Nebraska, a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she’s one of the three authors contributing to Alaska Brides with her Carol Award Winning historical romance Golden Days.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When a cowboy focused on revenge encounters a woman determined to distract him, there’s going to be trouble in Texas!
Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn’t terribly upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they’ve ever done is work her to the bone. Alive but disoriented, she’s rescued by Luke Stone…so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future.
Luke is on a mission to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men currently on the property won’t let it go without a fight. Luke plans to meet up with friends who will help him take back the land, and since he can’t just leave Ruthy in the middle of nowhere, she’s going to have to go with him.
But the more time Luke spends around the hardworking young woman, the more he finds himself thinking of things besides revenge. Will Ruthy convince him to give up his destructive path and be swept away by love?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Swept Away, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Once again Mary Connealy has brought her readers a thoroughly entertaining diversion from their daily routines. With a feisty heroine and a manly hero, Swept Away is an action-packed, suspense-filled western romance seasoned with with Mary’s trademark humor.
I loved getting to read Luke’s story and thought that Ruthy was a good match for him. There seemed to be a bit more action and not quite as much humor in this novel but that did not hinder the story for me. I enjoyed meeting Luke’s friends, “the Regulators” and hope some of them will be featured in future novels. As usual Mary has provided the perfect blend of faith, fun, action and romance to keep me reading her books as long as she can write them.
If you are not already a fan of Mary Connealy, give “Swept Away” a try and I can almost guarantee you will love it.
by admin | Mar 9, 2013 | Books, England, Regency, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Moonlight Masquerade” is sure to appeal to fans of Regency era romance novels. Its heroine is Celine, a young French widow of an English earl. Bored with her privileged lifestyle, Celine agrees to a bit of “innocent” espionage for the French. In turn, Rees Phillips is sent into her household as a butler to spy on her just in case she is passing along sensitive information to the French. Yet another group of French men are also watching Celine to make sure she does nothing to interfere with their own plans. All these spies spying on each other result in danger for Celine and Rees finds himself torn between proving that she is a spy or finding a way to protect her.
Overall “Moonlight Masquerade” was a good story but at times I became confused about exactly who Celine was working with and the difference in objectives between the two French groups. I really liked Rees and his integrity and would have enjoyed a bit more interaction between him and Celine. I also liked Celine and her lack of arrogance toward those who were in service to her. For my personal preferences, there was just a bit too much thinking going on and not enough action or real danger to keep things moving along.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In this new Regency Romance, Ruth Axtell deftly creates a world where black and white burst into a confusion of colors and no one is who they seem. Axtell’s expert storytelling and attention to historical detail bring the Regency era alive with intrigue and romance.
Lady Celine Wexham seems the model British subject. French by birth but enjoying life in 1813 as a widowed English countess, she is in the unique position of being able to help those in need–or to spy for the notorious Napoleon Bonaparte. When Rees Phillips of the British Foreign Office is sent to pose as the countess’s butler and discover where her true loyalties lie, he is confident he will uncover the truth. But the longer he is in her fashionable townhouse in London’s West End, the more his staunch loyalty to the Crown begins to waver as he falls under Lady Wexham’s spell.
Endorsements for Moonlight Masquerade
“Intrigue, romance, a clandestine kiss . . . all cast in a Regency setting so magnificently detailed I could see the fabrics and feel the glow of another era. Secrets and past disappointments keep Céline and Rees apart, not to mention the largest chasm of all—class. A wonderfully romantic and memorable read!”—Maureen Lang, author of Bees in the Butterfly Garden
“The first paragraph drew me into the story, and the next twist held me there to the end.”—Laurie Alice Eakes, author of A Flight of Fancy
“Moonlight Masquerade is a wonderful romance, graced with expert detail of the Regency period, as well as with Ruth Axtell’s usual flair for intensely romantic situations between characters so real I couldn’t stop thinking about them. Moonlight Masquerade is an exciting romantic adventure of spies, forbidden love, and happily-ever-after that I thoroughly enjoyed.”—Melanie Dickerson, two-time Christy Award finalist and author of The Healer’s Apprentice and The Merchant’s Daughter
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ruth Axtell is the author of thirteen novels, including Wild Rose, one of Booklist‘s Top Ten in Christian Fiction. Currently a resident of Downeast Maine, Axtell has lived in the Canary Islands, Miami, and the Netherlands.
by admin | Mar 7, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
When her brother is arrested for the murder of a young snowboarder and the evidence looks to be overwhelming, Piper McKenna refuses to believe in his guilt and is determined to prove his innocence. Deputy Landon Grainger has been in love with Piper for some time and even though he believes she doesn’t feel the same, he takes a leave of absence from the Sheriff’s Department to make sure she has the protection she needs during her pursuit of the truth. Their leads take them into Canada and then into California but many seem to be dead ends. Can they find the real murderer in time to stop Reef’s trial and will the truth about their own relationship ever be revealed?
Dani Pettrey takes her readers on another suspense-filled adventure featuring the McKenna family and close friends. Although danger and drama follow closely on their heels, more than one member of the family just might have a bit of romance brewing in Shattered. In fact, I suspect that the stage has been set for at least one more installment to the Alaskan Courage series. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and their combination of strength, faith, determination, and vulnerability. I am looking forward to more novels by this talented author.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
With All the Evidence Against Him,
Only a Sister’s Trust Can Save Him Now
When her prodigal brother Reef’s return to Yancey, Alaska, is shattered by his arrest for murder, Piper McKenna is determined to protect him.
Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he’s also sworn to find the truth. And he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth puts Landon’s career in jeopardy.
When Piper launches her own investigation, Landon realizes he must protect her from herself-and whatever complications await as the two follow clues deep into Canada’s rugged backcountry. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.
Purchase a copy here.
Read an excerpt here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom, and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters.
Dani Pettrey is celebrating the release of Shattered with a Nook HD giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party {3/14}.
One winner will receive:
- A brand new Nook HD
- Submerged and Shattered by Dani Pettrey {Be caught up in this riveting series.}
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 13th. Winner will be announced at the “Shattered” Author Chat Party on 3/14. Connect with Dani for an evening of book chat, trivia, and a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!
So grab your copy of Shattered and join Dani on the evening of the March 14th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 14th!
by admin | Mar 7, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingStrand of DeceptionB&H Books (March 1, 2013)byRobin Caroll
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Born and raised in Louisiana, Robin Caroll is a southerner through and through. Her passion has always been to tell stories to entertain others. Robin’s mother, bless her heart, is a genealogist who instilled in Robin the deep love of family and pride of heritage—two aspects Robin weaves into each of her books.
When she isn’t writing, Robin spends time with her husband of twenty-plus years, her 3 beautiful daughters, 2 precious grandsons, and their character-filled pets at home—in the South, where else?
Learn more about Robin and her books on her Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Gina Ford, the daughter of a prominent Tennessee politician, goes missing from the University of Memphis a week after another girl was murdered on the same campus, police call in the FBI. Nick Hagar, married to his job as Special Agent in Charge, is assigned to the case, and when Gina’s body is found, her father demands justice.
Maddie Baxter is the forensic expert running DNA tests from the crime scene. When they come back without a match, Nick asks her to do a familial DNA run that yields a shocking result: the prime suspect is Adam Alexander, the very same guy who broke Maddie’s heart when she was in college.
But do scientific advancements tell the whole story? Strand of Deception offers romance, suspense, and a lively debate about the impact of DNA testing, for better or worse, on the United States justice system.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Strand of Deception, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
I have enjoyed Robin’s books since I read her first Love Inspired Suspense novel. I was especially interested in Strand of Deception because of its Memphis, Tennessee setting because I have lived nearby my entire life. Being very familiar with the city, I am happy to say that Robin appears to have done her research well, describing locally favorite restaurants as well as a brief mention of two independent Memphis area churches, one of which I actually attended for several years. Her street names and locations were all spot on.
Aside from the local attraction, I found the novel itself to be well-written with a perfectly paced plot filled with several twists and surprises. Characters were realistic and believable and I enjoyed learning about forensic investigation processes. A couple of side stories kept things even more interesting. The romantic development between Maddie and Nick was unhurried and natural. Nick was the perfect hero and I liked the way he was influenced by Maddie’s faith although she didn’t pressure him about it.
Once again Robin Caroll has written a suspense novel that held my attention until the very end and left me eager to read her next book. If you are a romantic suspense fan, Strand of Deception is a novel you should check out.
by admin | Mar 7, 2013 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Ever since I picked up my first book by Lisa Wingate without any expectations, I have HAD to have each and every book she has published. Her natural down-home style and next-door characters drew me in and her stories filled with true life lessons and quotable quotes captured me .I always love Lisa’s characters and her inclusion of at least one dog into the story which just helps keep it real. Lisa also has at least one good lesson woven into the plot but it is always made palatable by her talented writing. “Firefly Island” was no exception and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Mallory Hale’s life was pretty predictable and she fully expected it to remain that way with a career in Washington politics- that is until she was swept totally off her feet by Daniel Everson. Within weeks she finds herself married with a young stepson and on her way to back of beyond Moses Lake, Texas where her new husband has taken a job. Spoiled city-girl Mallory soon realizes she is in over her head in her new rural home where she is surrounded by unwanted critters and a husband who seems to spend most of his time at work. To add to her discomfort, her husband’s new boss is the source of a local mystery and Mallory is somewhat suspicious of his intentions. As she cares for Nick, she soon becomes involved with some local residents who inspire Mallory to take a good look at herself and her prejudices. Could it be that God has her in Moses Lake for more than one reason? And could one of those reasons be to help Mallory grow into the person He intended for her to be all along?
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Mallory Hale’s life quickly veers off course when she falls hopelessly in love. After a whirlwind romance, Mallory finds herself leaving the bustle and action of Capitol Hill for the remote town of Moses Lake, Texas–with husband, stepson, and a U-Haul in tow.
A sweet, mishap-filled journey into marriage, motherhood, and ranch living ensues, and Mallory is filled with both the wonderment of love and the insecurities of change. But what she can’t shake is the unease she feels around her husband’s new boss, Jack West. Jack’s presence–and his mysterious past–set her on edge, and when hints of a scandal emerge, Mallory finds herself seeking answers . . . and comes to realize that the middle-of-nowhere home she wasn’t sure she wanted is the very place she’ll risk everything to save.
“Lisa Wingate is a glorious storyteller!” –New York Times bestselling author Adriana Trigiani
Purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Wingate is a popular inspirational speaker, magazine columnist, and national bestselling author of several books, including Tending Roses, Talk of the Town, Blue Moon Bay, and Larkspur Cove, which won the 2011 Carol Award for Women’s Fiction. Lisa and her family live in central Texas.
Visit www.lisawingate.com
Win an iPad Mini from @LisaWingate! RSVP for 3/19 Facebook Party!
Lisa Wingate is celebrating the release of Firefly Island with an iPad Mini giveaway and a fun Facebook Author Chat Party (March 19th).
One fortunate winner will receive:
- An iPad Mini
- The Moses Lake series (Firefly Island, Blue Moon Bay and Larkspur Cove)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 18th. Winner will be announced at the “Firefly Island Author Chat Party on March 19th. Connect with Lisa, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways — gift certificates, books, and more!
So grab your copy of Firefly Island and join Lisa on the evening of the March 19th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)
Don’t miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 19th!
