by admin | May 31, 2019 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I have to admit – it’s a blessing and a curse when I discover a new author whose first book makes me want everything she will ever write from that point on. Other avid readers will understand. Another author to love! My bookshelves are already overflowing! Nevertheless, I loved Living Lies enough that unless a future novel is extremely disappointing, I will be reading books by Natalie Walters as long as she cares to write them.
Small towns are just the best settings for suspense novels, especially if surrounded by some sort of wilderness. Beginning with its awesome cover, Living Lies drew me into its vivid descriptions and exceptional characters. Lane Kent suffered from severe depression to the point of occasional suicidal thoughts and she blamed herself for the death of her husband. Because of her own struggles Lane understood others who suffered similar afflictions and was particularly compassionate toward them. Charlie Lynch, the new deputy in town, is encouraged to work with Lane after she discovers a body.
With a wonderful supporting cast, especially Miguel, Sheriff Huggins, his wife Birdie, and Deputy Frost, Lane and Charlie take readers on an exciting and sometimes terrifying journey as they race against time to discover a dangerous murderer. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the procedures and process of tracking down each clue. Numerous twists and surprises were in store and I was kept in suspense the entire time.
I appreciate the author’s honest portrayal of depression, PTSD, and suicide. I also loved how more than one character lovingly encouraged Lane and pointed her toward the Lord. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
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:
In the little town of Walton, Georgia, everybody knows your name–but no one knows your secret.
At least that’s what Lane Kent is counting on when she returns to her hometown with her five-year-old son. Dangerously depressed after the death of her husband, Lane is looking for hope. What she finds instead is a dead body.
Lane must work with Walton’s newest deputy, Charlie Lynch, to uncover the truth behind the murder. But when that truth hits too close to home, she’ll have to decide if saving the life of another is worth the cost of revealing her darkest secret.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Natalie Walters is the author of Living Lies and Deadly Deceit. A military wife of 22 years, she currently resides in Hawaii with her soldier husband and their three kids. She writes full-time and has been published in Proverbs 31 magazine and has blogged for Guideposts online. In addition to balancing life as a military spouse, mom, and writer, she loves connecting on social media, sharing her love of books, cooking, and traveling. Natalie comes from a long line of military and law enforcement veterans and is passionate about supporting them through volunteer work, races, and writing stories that affirm no one is defined by their past. Learn more at www.nataliewalterswriter.com.
by admin | May 31, 2019 | Books, Coffee, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for Libby’s Cuppa Joe by Rebecca Waters with JustRead Publicity Tours!
MY REVIEW:
Rebecca Waters is a new author for me and the cover is not the type that usually attracts me either. Nevertheless I chose to read Libby’s Cuppa Joe to review and was pleasantly surprised that I was quickly captivated by the story.
The novel features Sonja Parker who invests her inheritance from her grandmother in a once thriving coffee shop in a small Wisconsin town. She runs into several obstacles that include needed repairs to the building as well as trying to live up to the expectations of the shop’s former customers. Sonja manages to find time for romance but she doesn’t make the best choices and is taken advantage of by a deceptive boyfriend. Sonja is left to pay the price for her poor decisions. Another young man was the perfect hero who saw past Sonja’s mistakes to her caring heart.
Libby’s Cuppa Joe is a clean read despite certain circumstances that take place in the background. I enjoyed the way Sonja’s friends and family rallied around her to help with each and every problem she encountered and how the author managed to weave in a strong message of faith into the story. I was also pleased at how all the loose ends were tied together at the end, especially a surprise for the former owner of the coffee shop.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Title: Libby’s Cuppa Joe
Author: Rebecca Waters
Publisher: Ambassador International
Release Date: March 8, 2018
Genre: Women’s Fiction
Can grace and love be found amongst coffee grounds?
Sonja Parker is about to find out.
Excited to leave her stale life in the big city behind, Sonja takes the money her grandmother left her and purchases Libby’s Cuppa Joe, a thriving coffee shop in a small community in Wisconsin’s Door County. Sonja may have business sense, but is she ready to face the world on her own?
Sonja soon discovers owning a business requires more than offering a good cup of coffee. She must make major repairs to the building as well as major
repairs to her heart. Do the former owners, Libby and Joe hold the answer? As Sonja seeks to make Libby’s Cuppa Joe a viable business, can she also find herself and the God she has abandoned?
Libby’s Cuppa Joe is a riveting tale of second chances, forgiveness, and not living on borrowed faith.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository | ChristianBook
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rebecca Waters has been a writer most of her life. Her first published work was a story in the school newspaper she wrote in second grade. For many years Rebecca used her stories as illustrations in church settings and to entertain her own three daughters. Her professional writing included educational articles and research.
Following her retirement as a professor of education from Cincinnati Christian University, Rebecca turned her pen to the world of fiction. She has also published several articles in Chicken Soup for the Soul, The Lookout Magazine, and Home Health Aide Digest. Her first novel, Breathing on Her Own, was released in 2014.
CONNECT WITH REBECCA: Website | Facebook | Twitter
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a print copy of Libby’s Cuppa Joe and (1) winner will receive an ebook copy.
Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight May 28, 2019 and last through 11:59 pm June 4, 2019. US only. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
by admin | May 28, 2019 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I was blessed to be an early reviewer for Janet Ferguson’s The Art of Rivers. I have always enjoyed her books but this one touched me in ways the others haven’t. I have experienced the effects of addiction up close and personal with a family member who was thankfully able to break free and remain that way for over fifteen years so far. I also have friends who have lost children to its evil grasp. I so appreciate the way the author managed to depict this subject realistically yet with compassion.
The characters were skillfully portrayed, each with events from their past that impinge on their present lives and make it difficult to trust themselves as well as others. The setting of St. Simons Island is so beautifully described that I would love to see it for myself.
I loved reading Cooper and Rivers’ story complete with each and every obstacle they encountered. At times it was heart-rending but yet was filled with faith, hope, second chances, and romance. Janet Ferguson has a masterful way with words and keen insight into what makes humans tick. I look forward to each and every novel she cares to write in the future.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Rivers Sullivan bears both visible and invisible scars—those on her shoulder from a bullet wound and those on her heart from the loss of her fiancé during the same brutal attack. Not even her background as an art therapist can help her regain her faith in humanity. Still, she scrapes together the courage to travel to St. Simons Island to see the beach cottage and art gallery she’s inherited from her fiancé. When she stumbles upon recovering addicts running her gallery, she’s forced to reckon with her own healing.
After the tragic drowning of his cousin, James Cooper Knight spends his days trying to make up for his past mistakes. He not only dedicates his life to addiction counseling, but guilt drives him to the water, searching for others who’ve been caught unaware of the quickly rising tides of St. Simons. When he rescues a peculiar blond woman and her sketch pad from a sandbar, then delivers this same woman to his deceased grandmother’s properties, he knows things are about to get even more complicated.
Tragic circumstances draw Cooper and Rivers closer, but they fight their growing feelings. Though Cooper’s been sober for years, Rivers can’t imagine trusting her heart to someone in recovery, and he knows a relationship with her will only rip his family further apart. Distrust and guilt are only the first roadblocks they must overcome if they take a chance on love.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Janet W. Ferguson grew up in Mississippi and received a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Mississippi. She has served as a children’s minister and a church youth volunteer. An avid reader, she worked as a librarian at a large public high school. She writes humorous inspirational fiction for people with real lives and real problems. Janet and her husband have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.
Learn more about Janet and her books on her website – https://www.janetfergusonauthor.com
by admin | May 26, 2019 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Maine, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Although I’m not a huge fan of Amish fiction, I have always enjoyed the Amish novels by Suzanne Woods Fisher. Her characters are always strong and realistic and the stories dig a bit deeper into their inner lives than is often the case. On a Summer Tide is Fisher’s latest novel and it departs from the Amish genre and takes her readers into a contemporary tale set on an small island off the shores of Maine.
In this novel, the three Grayson sisters are drawn to Three Sisters Island at the request of their father who purchased the entire island in order to restore the campground that held so many memories for him. Although the sisters generally thought their dad had lost his mind, they agreed to stay as long as they could to help him. In this wonderful story, each of the sisters fell under the spell of the island and began to really find themselves for the first time as well as restore their relationships that had become distant over the years.
I loved this wonderful story with its sometimes quirky characters and laugh-out-loud moments but mostly for the depth of love and faith expressed throughout its pages. Of course there is some romance along the way as well as some unexpected twists and surprises that could change everything for two of the characters. I am deliberately vague because this is one story that I would hate to spoil for anyone. Just take my advice and pick it up if you don’t read another book this summer.
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:
| Book: On a Summer Tide
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Genre: Christian Fiction Romance
Release Date: April 30, 2019 |
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Sometimes love hurts—and sometimes it can heal in the most unexpected way.
Camden Grayson loves her challenging career, but the rest of her life could use some improvement. “Moving on” is Cam’s mantra. But there’s a difference, her two sisters insist, between one who moves on . . . and one who keeps moving.
Cam’s full-throttle life skids to a stop when her father buys a remote island off the coast of Maine. Paul Grayson has a dream to breathe new life into the island—a dream that includes reuniting his estranged daughters. Certain Dad has lost his mind, the three sisters rush to the island. To Cam’s surprise, the slow pace of island life appeals to her, along with the locals—and one in particular. Seth Walker, the scruffy island schoolteacher harbors more than a few surprises.
With On a Summer Tide, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher begins a brand-new contemporary romance series that is sure to delight her fans and draw new ones.
Click here to purchase your copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Suzanne Woods Fisher is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than thirty books, including Mending Fences, as well as the Nantucket Legacy, Amish Beginnings, The Bishop’s Family, and The Inn at Eagle Hill series, among other novels. She is also the author of several nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace and The Heart of the Amish. She lives in California. Learn more at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and follow Suzanne on Facebook @SuzanneWoodsFisherAuthor and Twitter @suzannewfisher.
MORE FROM SUZANNE:
Oh-So-Maine Blueberry Buckle
Summer in Maine means plump, tart blueberries are everywhere. Here’s a family recipe that is nearly fool-proof….and so delicious! Especially with a scoop or two with vanilla ice cream.
Ever wonder how it got the name Blueberry Buckle? While the batter rises as it bakes, but the blueberries and crumb topping weigh it down. This causes the surface of the cake to buckle…hence the name.
| Batter:
¾ cup sugar
¼ cup soft butter
1 egg
½ cup milk cups sifted flour
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 cups drained blueberries |
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| Crumb Topping:½ cup sugar
½ cup flour
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup softened butter |
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| Preheat oven to 375 degrees. |
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| Mix sugar and butter with egg. Stir in milk Sift together and stir in flour, baking powder and salt. Carefully blend in blueberries. Put on topping before baking. Pour in a greased and floured 9” square pan. |
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| Bake 45-50 minutes. |
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BLOG STOPS:
| Just the Write Escape, May 23
The Avid Reader, May 23
The Power of Words, May 23
Blessed & Bookish, May 23
The Morning Chapter, May 24
Blogging With Carol, May 24
Carpe Diem, May 24
Cultivating Us, May 24
Godly Book Reviews, May 25
Stephanie’s Life of Determination, May 25
Mary Hake, May 25
For Him and my Family, May 25
C Jane Read, May 26
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 26
Blossoms and Blessings, May 26
Daysong Reflections, May 26
Lighthouse Academy, May 27
Reader’s Cozy Corner, May 27
Empower Moms, May 27
Remembrancy, May 27
Wishful Endings, May 28
Simple Harvest Reads, May 28
Spoken from the Heart, May 28
SusanLovesBooks, May 28
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 29
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, May 29 |
Chas Ray’ Book Nerd Corner, May 29
Hallie Reads, May 29
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 30
Maureen’s Musings, May 30
Library Lady’s Kit Lit, May 30
Inspiration Clothesline, May 30
Living Life Free in Christ, May 31
Locks, Hooks and Books, May 31
Pause for Tales, May 31
Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, June 1
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 1
A Reader’s Brain, June 1
Through the Fire Blogs, June 2
Have A Wonderful Day, June 2
Southern Gal Loves to Read, June 2
Quiet Quilter, June 3
2014 and Beyond, June 3
By The Book, June 3
She Lives to Read, June 4
Texas Book-aholic, June 4
janicesbookreviews, June 4
Jeanette’s Thoughts, June 4
Christian Chick’s Thoughts, June 5
Little Homeschool on the Prairie, June 5
Inklings and notions, June 5 |
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Suzanne is giving away a grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/e540/on-a-summer-tide-celebration-tour-giveaway
by admin | May 18, 2019 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, K-9 Unit, Love Inspired, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I grew up with beagles so I know what great dogs they are. Never did I imagine a beagle as a K-9 officer but with their keen sense of smell it totally makes sense. It was such fun reading about Eddie and how he helped break up a group of drug smugglers as well as helping to save lives.
Since Act of Valor is a Love Inspired Suspense, readers will know that they are most likely to find plenty of action and danger blended with a pretty good romance. Dana Mentink is a pro at keeping her readers on edge one minute and rooting for a happily-ever-after the next. Act of Valor meets all the requirements and kept me on edge as I turned the pages as fast as I could.
I love this author’s books and am always ready for the next one. It is a good thing that she seems to produce new ones fairly quickly!
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:
| Book: Act of Valor
Author: Dana Mentink
Genre: Inspirational romantic suspense
Release Date: June 1, 2019
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A True Blue K-9 story …When airline employee Violet Griffin encounters several suspicious passengers, she’s thrust into the crosshairs of a drug smuggling operation. NYPD officer Zach Jameson and his drug detection beagle, Eddie, can tell this is no small-time threat. Someone’s gunning for Violet, and after recently losing his brother, Zach refuses to lose her, too…especially now that she’s gone from friend to the woman he’s falling for.
Click here to purchase your copy.
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 a national bestselling author of over forty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Barbour, and Harvest House. Dana was thrilled to be a semi-finalist in the Jeanne Robertson Comedy With Class Competition. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with Papa Bear, teen bear cubs affectionately nicknamed Yogi and Boo Boo, Junie, the nutty terrier, and a chubby box turtle. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.)
MORE FROM DANA:
Cops and killers and beagles, oh my! It was a ton of fun writing the second book in the new True Blue K-9 Continuity series. First of all, I had the honor of working with some AMAZING authors. (It’s challenging creating a world together and keeping all those details straight!) I had the privilege of following the amazing Lynette Eason, so that’s always a plus! Second, I learned all about the astonishing world of beagles! Those critters are just amazing. For instance, the original beagles were tiny, only 8 inches tall and could be carried in a pocket, which is why they called them Pocket Beagles. I need one of those! The name beagle comes from the French, which is translated “wide throat” or “loudmouth.” This is well earned by Eddie in my story, who will occasionally let loose with the trademark baying. The beagles small size, general friendliness, and ferocious scent drive, make it the perfect dog to sniff around airports and get into compact spaces. Eddie enjoys doing just that with Zach, his handler and best friend. He earns those gourmet treats that Zach bakes up for him. Best of all, Eddie was rescued from death before he became a canine cop star! It’s just awesome when you can twine fact with fiction to come up with a tail wagging suspense story! I hope you enjoy the second installment in the series!
BLOG STOPS:
| Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, May 16
Genesis 5020, May 16
Multifarious, May 17
Through the Fire Blogs, May 17
Lighthouse Academy, May 17
Reading Is My SuperPower, May 18
Blogging With Carol, May 18
Daysong Reflections, May 19
Carla Loves to Read, May 19
Wishful Endings, May 20
EmpowerMoms, May 20
D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, May 20
Remembrancy, May 21
Blossoms and Blessings, May 21
Simple Harvest Reads, May 22
(Guest post from Mindy Houng) |
Hallie Reads, May 22
Among the Reads, May 23
Moments, May 23
Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 24
Just Your Average reviews, May 24
Real World Bible Study, May 25
Pause for Tales, May 25
Ashley’s Bookshelf, May 25
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 26
Texas Book-aholic, May 26
Bigreadersite, May 27
janicesbookreviews, May 27
Inklings and notions, May 28
Rev. Rebecca Writes: Read, Write, Pray, May 29
Little Homeschool on the Prairie, May 29 |
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away a grand prize of a print copy of the book, a beagle coloring book, and an Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/e012/act-of-valor-celebration-tour-giveaway
