by admin | Feb 25, 2015 | Alaska, Books, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Ironically, I read “Sabotaged” while iced in for a week after one of our rare southern winter storms. I absolutely cannot imagine living in a place with so much snow and such low temperatures during the winter. When it comes to the frozen stuff I am a real wimp and prefer to just read about it. Dani Pettrey is one author who can make Alaska come to life in the pages of her books.
Featuring Reef, the black sheep of the McKenna family and veterinarian Kirra Jacobs, “Sabotaged” takes the pair on a race against time to find her missing cousin and uncle before the Iditarod race reaches its end and to discover and stop the person whose malicious plans could endanger hundreds. Essentially opposites, Reef and Kirra had been at odds for most of their lives but quickly grew comfortable working together on their common mission.
Once again Pettrey brought the entire McKenna family and friend together to help support each other, each using their particular gifts for the good of all. What else can I say? “Sabotaged” has a fast-paced plot filled with action, danger, surprises, and of course romance. Well-developed and familiar characters were easy to like (or hate).
I am sorry to see this series come to an end but look forward to whatever Dani has waiting for her readers. I recommend “Sabotaged” and the entire series.
This book was provided for review by Bethany House,
a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Finally Returned Home, Reef McKeena Finds His Beloved Alaska Facing Its Greatest Threat
Growing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and troublemaker Reef McKenna were always at odds. Now, working together as search-and-rescue for Alaska’s arduous Iditarod race, a growing attraction seems to be forcing aside old arguments. Then Reef catches Kirra sneaking from camp in the middle of the night. Kirra’s uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared. Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing: Frank’s daughter has been kidnapped. Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl’s life–but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen.
Read an excerpt from “Sabotaged” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the Alaskan Courage romantic suspense series, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, and Silenced, and new release, Sabotaged. Her books have been honored with the Daphne du Maurier award, two HOLT Medallions, two National Readers’ Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing’s Best Award, among others.
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, where they enjoy time with their two daughters, a son-in-law, and a super adorable grandson. You can find her online at danipettrey.com.
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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 | Feb 11, 2013 | Alaska, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
ShatteredBethany House Publishers (February 1, 2013)
by
Dani PettreyABOUT THE AUTHOR:
In real life, 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 one’s faith and plenty of romance. She’s a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters.
Just in case you’re curious…The real Dani does love traveling. She’s been to some amazing places (Greece, Hawaii, the Keys) and there are many more she hopes to visit in the future.
And while she’s not quite up to sky-diving, cave diving or heli-skiing (too high, too enclosed, too cold!) she and her family love hiking, canoeing, wave jumping and a ton of other outdoor adventures a little further down on the risk scale.
Dani is the acclaimed author of the romantic suspense series Alaskan Courage, which includes her bestselling debut novel Submerged and latest release Shattered. 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.
Learn more about Dani and her books on her Website.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Piper McKenna couldn’t be more thrilled that her prodigal brother, Reef, has returned to Yancey, Alaska, after five years. But her happiness is short-lived when Reef appears at her house covered in blood. A fellow snowboarder has been killed–but despite the evidence, Reef swears he’s innocent. And Piper believes him.
Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he’s also sworn to find the truth. Piper is frustrated with his need for facts over faith, but 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 may mean risking Landon’s career.
With Piper waging her own search, the two head deep into Canada’s rugged backcountry–and unexpected complications. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.
If you would like to read the first chapter of Shattered, go HERE.
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.
by admin | Jan 29, 2013 | Alaska, Biblical, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska” is a skillful fusion of both contemporary and historical fiction in one novel. Up-and-coming singer Ginny Marshall is on the threshold of success with a contract waiting to be signed and an invitation to sing at the grammies. Not only that but famous music producer Danny Kingston has shown serious romantic interest in her as well. Her dreams are all coming true so why does Ginny feel so unsettled? Why can’t she forget Brett, her former fiance? A spontaneous decision takes Ginny to Alaska for the purpose of getting Brett’s advice but circumstances keep her there much longer than she had planned. While staying at the home of Brett’s grandmother, Ginny (and the reader) are given an intimate look into the lives of Ellie and Clay, earlier residents of the small Alaskan town by reading through a box of old letters.
A character driven book, “Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska” has loads of drama, adventure, history, geographical details, misunderstandings, personal growth, a great romance, and a good spiritual theme. I loved how Ginny was able to identify with Ellie through her letters and to see parallels between their lives. Brett was a perfect hero who was able to understand and minister to Ginny despite how she had wounded his heart. There were a few surprises in both Ginny and Ellie’s stories that added to the reading enjoyment. I enjoyed seeing how each of them was able to break down the walls surrounding their hearts and learn to be the person God created them to be.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Singer Ginny Marshall is one signature away from the recording contract of her dreams—a deal that would guarantee success for the former foster child, who still struggles to bury the memories of her painful childhood. But Ginny needs advice from the one person who will look out for her best interests—her former fiancé, Brett Miller. She travels to the remote town of Glacier Bay, Alaska, where the town’s colorful characters and stunning scenery provide respite from LA’s pressures.
In Glacier Bay, Ginny discovers a box of old letters and is swept up in the love story between Clay, an early missionary to Alaska Territory, and Ellie, the woman who traveled there to be his children’s governess. When Ginny is reunited with Brett in Glacier Bay, will she discover—as Ellie did—that healing and love are sometimes found in the most unexpected places?
Pre-order a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of six, grandmother of one, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.
In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Tricia, along with a group of friends, recently launched NotQuiteAmishLiving.com, sharing ideas about simplifying life. She also hosts the weekly radio podcast, Living Inspired. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.
Find out more about Tricia at http://triciagoyer.com.
Ocieanna Fleiss is a published author and editor. She lives with her husband and their four children in the Seattle area.
Find out more about Ocieanna at http://ocieanna.com/.
Win a “Glacier Bay” Prize pack from Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss
Celebrate with Tricia and Ocieanna by entering their “Glacier Bay” Giveaway and RSVPing for their Facebook Party on Feb. 12th!
One fortunate winner will receive:
- A gorgeous handmade “Glacier Bay” bracelet
- A handmade cowl in “Glacier Bay” blues and greens
- A bottle of custom-made “Glacier Bay” sparkle polish in blue
- Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss and their two other “Love Finds You” titles {Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie, Montana, and Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington}
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 11th. Winner will be announced at the “Glacier Bay” Author Chat Party on February 12th. Connect with authors Tricia and Ocieanna, get a sneak peek of their new book projects, try your hand at the Alaska trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be great giveaways—gift certificates, books, and more!
So grab your copy of Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska, and join Tricia and Ocieanna on the evening of February 12th for a chance to connect with the authors 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 12th!
by admin | Sep 5, 2011 | Alaska, Books, Historical, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingA Whisper of PeaceBethany House (September 1, 2011)byKim Vogel SawyerABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of fifteen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women’s fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and numerous grandchildren.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Ostracized by her tribe because of her white father, Lizzie Dawson lives alone in the mountains of Alaska, practicing the ways of her people even as she resides in the small cabin her father built for her mother. She dreams of reconciling with her grandparents to fulfill her mother’s dying request, but she has not yet found a way to bridge the gap that separate her from her tribe.
Clay Selby has always wanted to be like his father, a missionary who holds a great love for the native people and has brought many to God. Clay and his stepsister, Vivian, arrive in Alaska to set up a church and school among the Athbascan people. Clay is totally focused on this goal…until he meets a young, independent Indian woman with the most striking blue eyes he’s ever seen.
But Lizzie is clearly not part of the tribe, and befriending her might have dire consequences for his mission. Will Clay be forced to choose between his desire to minister to the natives and the quiet nudging of his heart?
If you would like to read the first chapter of A Whisper of Peace, go HERE.
Learn more about Kim and her books on her Website.
