by admin | Nov 7, 2021 | Alaska, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Dogs, K-9 Unit, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I make it a point to read every book Dana Mentink publishes. I love how well she manages to write a suspense filled plot complete with characters I would love to get to know. Her villains are usually either unexpected or somewhat demented. I especially love that I will find at least one dog in every book and each of those dogs has his own unique personality. What’s not to love about her books?
Yukon Justice more than lived up to my expectations. It’s setting of a reindeer rescue ranch offered a bit of an education about reindeer with several facts that will be new to many readers. The featured K-9 Unit dog Ella was a fun combination with several quirky habits yet totally on the job when working.
Katie and Brayden’s relationship was somewhat strained due to past issues but working together might just change that. As they encountered one dangerous situation after another Brayden’s focus changed to wanting to protect Katie at all costs. Could she give up enough independence to let him help?
Another great offering from this author. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
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Book: Yukon Justice
Author: Dana Mentink
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Release date: October 26, 2021
Click here to get your copy!
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Sabotage on a family ranch…
Newfoundland Ella and her Alaska State Trooper partner is on the case.
When her estranged uncle attempts to sabotage her family’s reindeer ranch, K-9 team assistant Katie Kapowski heads home to help save it—and becomes his target. With their rocky past, Alaska State Trooper Brayden Ford and his furry partner are the last team Katie wants assigned to protect her. But with the ranch under siege, they must work together…or risk falling victim to a killer.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dana Mentink is a two time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a Holt Medallion winner. She is the Publisher’s Weekly and Amazon bestselling author of over forty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, and Poisoned Pen Press. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.)
MORE FROM DANA:
Up on the housetop, click, click, click, down through the chimney with good St. Nick. Does anyone know that line from the famous Christmas song? I’ve been singing it for years but only recently did I learn that the clicking is a real reindeer phenomenon. Those reindeer ankle joints make a clicking sound so they can find the rest of their herd if they are separated in a blizzard. It’s just one of the many things I learned about reindeer while researching to write Yukon Justice. In the novel, Katy has to take over running her aunt’s reindeer ranch and protect it from threats by a dangerous intruder. I had the pleasure of “Zoom” interviewing the owner of the Running Reindeer Ranch in Fairbanks, Alaska! Jane helped me learn all kinds of interesting things about reindeer. How much do you know about these critters? Take my quick three question trivia quiz to test your knowledge!
1. What’s the difference between caribou and reindeer? They are the same animal but caribou are the wild variety and the domesticated version are called reindeer.
2. Do males or females grow antlers? Both! Reindeer are a type of deer and the only species where the female grows antlers as well as the males.
3. How come kids put out carrots for Santa’s reindeer? Good question! Carrots are not, in fact, part of a natural healthy reindeer diet. The animals don’t even have front teeth! A much better treat would be willow or birch leaves, or their favorite food…lichen, which they find by scraping the snow away from the ground with their hooves.
So how did you do? If you want to know more about these amazing creatures, snag yourself a copy of Yukon Justice!
BLOG STOPS:
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 6
lakesidelivingsite, November 6
Texas Book-aholic, November 6
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 7
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, November 7
Gina Holder, November 7 (Author Interview)
Inklings and notions, November 8
Daysong Reflections, November 8
Genesis 5020, November 8
For Him and My Family, November 9
Lighthouse-Academy, November 9
Bigreadersite, November 9
For the Love of Literature, November 10
Remembrancy, November 10
Betti Mace, November 10
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 11
A Good Book and Cup of Tea, November 11
deb’s Book Review, November 11
Locks, Hooks and Books, November 12
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, November 12
Blogging With Carol, November 13
To Everything There Is A Season, November 13
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 13
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 14
Simple Harvest Reads, November 14 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 15
Vicarious Living, November 15
Jeanette’s Thoughts, November 15
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, November 16
Blossoms and Blessings, November 16
Bizwings Blog, November 16
She Lives To Read, November 17
The Meanderings of a Bookworm, November 17
Splashes of Joy, November 18
Through the Fire blogs, November 18
Kayem Reads, November 18
Labor Not in Vain, November 19
Pause for Tales, November 19
Raining Butterfly Kisses, November 19
by admin | Feb 5, 2021 | Alaska, Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Endless Mercy was exactly the kind of novel I have come to expect from Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse. It contained just the right blend of drama, action, mystery, romance and faith to make it an enjoyable read.
The narrative contained a strong gospel message yet conveyed it without becoming preachy. Some characters who were professing Christians wrestled with personal issues such as mercy and forgiveness. Another character who had been raised by believing parents had allowed tragedy to keep him away from God. All were portrayed realistically and were easy to relate to rather than the picture perfect Christians sometimes depicted.
The second book in the Treasures of Nome series, Endless Mercy features youngest Powell sister Madysen who finds herself confused about several choices presented to her. I found myself wanting to warn her away from a particular man and to turn her affections toward a different one. Other family drama filled the everyday lives of the Powell family and although this volume ended satisfactorily, there are still a few unanswered questions that will hopefully be revealed in the next installment.
Endless Mercy is a fine example of why Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse books have remained favorites among historical fiction fans.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
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Book: Endless Mercy
Author: Tracie Peterson, Kimberley Woodhouse
Genre: Christian historical romance
Click here to get your copy!
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Madysen Powell has always been a forgiving person, but when her supposedly dead father shows up in Nome, Alaska, her gift for forgiveness is tested. With the recent loss of her mother, she searches for answers, leaning on Granny Beaufort, a neighbor in town, who listens with a kind heart. Still, Madysen is restless and dreams of performing her music around the world. The arrival of a traveling show could prove just the chance she needs, and the manager promises more than she ever dreamed.
Daniel Beaufort arrives in Nome, searching for his own answers after the gold rush leaves him with only empty pockets. Still angry about the death of his loved ones, he longs to start fresh but doesn’t have high hopes until he ends up helping at the Powell dairy making cheese. Drawn to the beautiful redhead with big dreams, will deceptions from the past tear apart any hope for the future?
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
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Tracie Peterson (www.traciepeterson.com) is the award-winning author of over 100 novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her many bestselling series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. |
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Kimberley Woodhouse (www.kimberleywoodhouse.com) is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than fifteen fiction and nonfiction books. A popular speaker and teacher, she’s shared her theme of “Joy Through Trials” with more than half a million people across the country at more than 2,000 events. Kim and her incredible husband of twenty-five-plus years have two adult children. She’s passionate about music and Bible study and loves the gift of story. |
MORE FROM KIM:
It’s so exciting for book two in our Treasures of Nome series, Endless Mercy, to be heading out into the world! Tracie and I are so thrilled to bring you another story set in Nome, Alaska. And isn’t that cover gorgeous? Bethany House does such an amazing job with our books, it is an absolute joy to get to work with them.
In book one, Forever Hidden, we are introduced to three sisters and their family (and farm) in Nome. Forever Hidden is Havyn’s story. And did I mention there are chickens? Check out my blog for some interesting pictures and stories about how these chicken stories came to be…
Book two, Endless Mercy, is Madysen’s story. Madysen is the youngest sibling, and in our story, she’s a talented cello player. Oh, and there are some sheep, who just might help get her into mischief. (Are you seeing a pattern here?)
Book three will release January 2022 and will finish out the Powell girls’ stories with the eldest, Whitney.
This series is very near and dear to us because the Powell sisters in the books are actually named after three beautiful girls we adore. They were music students of mine in Colorado and when Tracie and I had a book signing for In the Shadow of Denali, the red-headed, musical sisters all came. Tracie made the comment that someone should write a book about them…so of course…we did!
I wish you could hear the girls play and sing in real life. They are such talented musicians, and I love them dearly. Huge thanks go to Monica and Merle Powell for allowing us to take their three girls and make fictional characters out of them.
Here’s a picture of Monica with me and Tracie at a book signing years ago. And then of course, I had to put in a picture of the real Powell girls.
We’d love for you to join us for The Treasures of Nome. Enjoy the blog tour!
Through the Fire Blogs, January 25
Connie’s History Classroom, January 25
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 26
Breny and Books, January 26
Christian Bookaholic, January 27
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 27
Locks, Hooks and Books, January 28
Splashes of Joy, January 28
Batya’s Bits, January 28
She Lives to Read, January 29
Sara Jane Jacobs, January 29
Remembrancy, January 30
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 30
Older & Smarter?, January 31
deb’s Book Review, January 31
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 1
For Him and My Family, February 1
Bigreadersite, February 1
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 2
Inspiration Clothesline, February 2
Artistic Nobody, February 3 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)
Empowermoms, February 3
Texas Book-aholic, February 4
Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, February 4
Vicky Sluiter, February 4
Inklings and notions, February 5
Daysong Reflections, February 5
The Avid Reader, February 6
Hallie Reads, February 6
Adventures of a Travelers Wife, February 7
Pause for Tales, February 7
Bizwings Blog, February 7
by admin | Jan 25, 2020 | Adventure, Alaska, Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
Anyone who knows me well is aware that I have always had a major problem with heights so I was just a bit nervous about reading Susan May Warren’s latest novel The Way of the Brave. After all most of the story revolves around climbing Denali, in the winter no less! Because I love all books by this author and do not want to ever miss reading even one of them, I dove into this one fulling expecting nightmares. I can thankfully say that I survived the journey without even one nightmare but if this story ever becomes a movie, I don’t think I could handle it.
I am also happy to say that aside from Denali, winter storms, treacherous climbs, altitude sickness, and an accident or two, the author’s trademark focus on characterization was evident throughout. Orion Starr (don’t you love that name?) was indeed a worthy hero who despite his reconstructed knee and PTSD and no wish to join another rescue team, jumps into action when asked to help find and rescue three lost climbers. Jenny Calhoun’s past also keeps her running with ever more dangerous physical challenges to try to stop the memories. With a brief past connection, she holds a secret Orion is unaware of and fears his reaction when he learns the truth about her.
The Way of the Brave was an excellent tale filled with plenty of danger and suspense as well as hold-your-breath scenes. Each and every character was important to the story and I look forward to seeing some of the others featured in their own personal novel. Warren always has a strong and important message woven into her stories and this one is no different. I may not care for high places and would never think about climbing even a small mountain, much less Denali, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. As always I recommend it as well as every other book this author has written. They just keep getting better and better!
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Haunted by the memory of a rescue gone wrong, former pararescue jumper Orion Starr has no desire to join Hamilton Jones’s elite rescue team. But he also can’t shirk his duty when the call comes in to rescue three lost climbers on Denali in Alaska.
Jenny Calhoun’s yearly extreme challenge with her best friends is her only escape from her guilt. The former CIA profiler and psychiatrist green-lighted an operation against the Taliban that ended in ambush and lives lost. When her cathartic climb on Denali turns deadly, she’ll be forced to trust her life to the most dangerous of heroes–the man she nearly killed.
Orion and Jenny will have to put their wounds behind them to save their friends . . . and their hearts.
Read an excerpt here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling author of over 65 novels with more than 1 million books sold, including the Montana Rescue series. Winner of a RITA Award and multiple Christy and Carol Awards, as well as the HOLT Medallion and numerous Readers’ Choice Awards, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic suspense, thrillers, romantic comedy, and novellas. She makes her home in Minnesota. Find her online at www.susanmaywarren.com, on Facebook at Susan May Warren Fiction, and on Twitter @susanmaywarren.
by admin | Mar 27, 2018 | Alaska, Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have a gorgeous photo of Denali on my smart phone screen. No I’ve never had the opportunity to visit Alaska but my daughter and son-in-law went last summer and the clouds lifted long enough for her to take some spectacular photos and was generous enough to share with me. At this point in my life, most of my traveling will most likely be done through the pages of my beloved books and the lens of my daughter’s camera. Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse have provided me with a historical suspense that helped to bring life to my daughter’s image.
I can always expect a lovely romantic story from Tracie Peterson, usually one filled with obstacles to help keep it interesting. When Peterson joins forces with Kimberly Woodhouse, the suspense seems to be raised a few notches and I can be sure of an exciting story. That was certainly the case with “Out of the Ashes”.
The second book in The Heart of Alaska series, “Out of the Ashes” also takes place mostly in or in the vicinity of the Curry Hotel. Two young people have been brought together through the mechanization of a loving grandmother who wants the best for her granddaughter but neither Katherine nor Jean-Michel are the same people who fell in love so many years ago. Life has left its mark on each of them and it could be too late for a life together again.
As always, I was immediately sucked into the story and had great difficulty putting it down to take care of mundane everyday chores. The plot was expertly constructed with just enough description and historical facts to keep it interesting. Scripture was also inserted at just the right points, time and again. There was absolutely nothing I didn’t like about this story except maybe the fact that it ended. I can’t wait for another installment.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required.All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
After the death of their father, Collette and Jean-Michel Langelier are no longer tied to post-war France. While his sister dreams of adventure, Jean-Michel is hoping to finally escape reminders of the horrors he faced in the war. When Jean-Michel receives an unexpected invitation for them to visit Alaska and the Curry Hotel, it seems an opportunity for a change he needs.
Katherine Demarchis is a young widow who does not grieve the dangerous husband she was forced to marry. Now she just wants to retreat to a quiet life, content to be alone. First, though, she’s agreed to accompany her grandmother on a final trip, but never expects to see a man from her past.
Katherine and Jean-Michel once shared a deep love that was torn apart by forces beyond their control. Reunited now, have the years changed them too deeply to rediscover what they had? And when Jean-Michel’s nightmares return with terrifying consequences, will faith be enough to heal what’s been broken for so long?
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
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Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 100 novels. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana. Learn more at www.traciepeterson.com. |
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by admin | Feb 5, 2017 | Alaska, Books, Historical, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I don’t think I’ve read a book by Tracie Peterson that I didn’t like and I have also learned that she and Kimberly Woodhouse make a dynamite writing team. “In the Shadow of Denali” is a historical romantic suspense that beautifully showcases their teamwork.
With a setting in the beautiful yet untamed wilderness at the base of the majestic Alaskan mountain Denali, the authors have brought their readers another thrilling and suspense filled tale. Their characters are down-to-earth and must depend on each other and their faith in order to survive the sinister plans of a depraved man. Historical facts and vivid descriptions provide a believable backdrop for this story of forgiveness and courage – a story that illustrates the old saying “the truth will set you free”.
I thoroughly enjoyed “In the Shadow of Denali” and will eagerly watch for the next book in The Heart of Alaska series.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that was provided by Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Their Future Depends on Unlocking the Secrets the Mountain Holds From the Past
Cassidy Ivanoff and her father, John, work at the new and prestigious Curry Hotel near the foot of Mount McKinley–Denali as it’s still called by the natives. John is the wilderness and exploration guide for the wealthy tourists while Cassidy works in the kitchen as Cook’s assistant. The entire staff buzzes with excitement during the busy days preparing for the President’s imminent visit. His historic trip to dedicate the new national park on his way to driving in the golden spike to officially complete the Alaska Railroad will be the beginning of a new era for all of them and place The Curry at the heart of Alaska.
Allan Brennan travels to the Curry Hotel to be an apprentice to the seasoned Alaska mountain guide, with hopes of discovering the truth about his father’s death on the mountain years earlier. His father’s business partner blames the guide for Henry Brennan’s untimely death, but Allan cannot be at peace until he knows for sure. He finds an unlikely ally in Cassidy, and as the two begin to look into the mystery, they suddenly find that things are much less clear, and much more dangerous, than either could ever imagine.
READ AN EXCERPT HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
 Photo Credit: ©Lissa Barber Photography |
Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 100 novels. Tracie also teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. She and her family live in Montana. Learn more at www.traciepeterson.com. |
 Photo Credit: © Pauline Fortuna |
Kimberley Woodhouse is a multipublished author of fiction and nonfiction. A popular speaker/teacher, she’s shared her theme of Joy Through Trials with over 150,000 people at more than a thousand venues across the country. She lives, writes, and homeschools with her husband of twenty-plus years and their two awesome teens live in Colorado. Connect with Kim at www.kimberleywoodhouse.com. |
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by admin | Dec 28, 2016 | Alaska, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
“Turbulence” is a fairly short novel; however the author manages to cram quite a bit of content in between its covers. Not only does heroine Kennedy Stern find herself once again in the midst of deep trouble but also manages to have some deep spiritual conversations that have profound effects on her life and on others.
Situations within the plot are very believable and are so current the reader could hear about something similar in tomorrow’s news. Portrayal of different characters was on point, especially some of the attitudes toward others that reeked of racial profiling. I also loved the little granny lady who spent so much time with Kennedy. I had to wonder if she was one of those “angel unaware” encounters.
A fun read, “Turbulence” held my interest until the very end. I think I read it in one sitting. My only complaint is that it ended much too quickly.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book that was provided by the author. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Facing doubts and terror at forty thousand feet.
It’s been another grueling semester at Harvard, and Kennedy can hardly wait to take a break from her premed studies for some much-needed rest and relaxation at her roommate’s homestead in rural Alaska.
Unfortunately, Kennedy’s great arctic adventure might come to a crashing halt before it ever begins.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Alana is a pastor’s wife, homeschooling mom, self-diagnosed chicken lady, and Christian suspense author. Her novels have won awards from Women of Faith, Book Club Network, Grace Awards, Readers’ Favorite, and more. Alana’s passion for social justice, human rights, and religious freedom shines through her writing, and her books are known for raising tough questions without preaching. She and her family live in rural Alaska where the northern lights in the winter and midnight sun in the summer make hauling water, surviving the annual mosquito apocalypse, and cleaning goat stalls in negative forty degrees worth every second.
Learn more about Alana and her books on her website.
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