by admin | Sep 12, 2019 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I know I can always depend on a book by Colleen Coble to keep me reading well into the night and Strands of Truth was no exception. Her unique approach to DNA and family ancestry testing made me rethink my desire to have mine tested. I always thought it would be interesting to find out more about my ancestry but this novel offers a whole new twist of what could happen if the wrong relatives learned of your existence.
The heroine, Harper Taylor never knew her mother or father and grew up in foster homes where she always longed for a family. When she discovers a half-sister through DNA testing, both of them beyond excited to get to know each other. However a number of attempts to abduct both women as well as attacks on a man close to Harper send them on a mission to discover the truth behind them.
I enjoyed every minute of this suspense packed novel that contained one unexpected twist after another. I had a pretty good idea of the person behind everything before the end but the motives came as a total surprise. Strands of Truth is a riveting novel featuring complicated relationships as well as great suspense. It also didn’t hurt that the development of a romance was included.
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: Strands of Truth
Author: Colleen Coble
Genre: Suspense
Release Date: September 10, 2019 |
 |
Harper Taylor is used to being alone—after all, she grew up in one foster home after another. Oliver Jackson finally took her under his wing when she was a runaway teenager, and now Harper pours her marine biology knowledge into Oliver’s pen shell research. But she’s never stopped wishing for a family of her own.
So when a DNA test reveals a half-sister living just two hours away, Harper is both hopeful and nervous. Over warm cinnamon rolls, Harper and Annabelle find striking similarities in their stories. Is it just a coincidence that both their mothers died tragically, without revealing Harper and Annabelle’s father’s name?
Oliver’s son Ridge still sees Harper as a troubled teen even all these years later. But when Oliver is attacked, Ridge and Harper find themselves working together to uncover dangerous secrets that threaten to destroy them all. They must unravel her past before they can have any hope for the future.
Suspense, romance, and generational secrets meld in this engrossing new novel from USA TODAY bestselling author Colleen Coble.
Click here to get your copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Colleen Coble is a USA TODAY bestselling author and RITA finalist best known for her coastal romantic suspense novels, including The Inn at Ocean’s Edge, Twilight at Blueberry Barrens, and the Lavender Tides, Sunset Cove, Hope Beach, and Rock Harbor series. Connect with Colleen online at colleencoble.com; Instagram: colleencoble; Facebook: colleencoblebooks; Twitter: @colleencoble.
READ A PREMIUM EXCERPT:
Suspense, romance, and generational secrets meld in this engrossing new novel from USA TODAY bestselling author Colleen Coble.
Strands of Harper Taylor’s childhood are resurfacing—but will the truth save her . . . or pull her under?
Harper Taylor is used to being alone— after all, she grew up in one foster home after another. Oliver Jackson finally took her under his wing when she was a runaway teenager, and now Harper pours her marine biology knowledge into Oliver’s pen shell research. But she’s never stopped wishing for a family of her own.
So when a DNA test reveals a half-sister living just two hours away, Harper is both hopeful and nervous. Over warm cinnamon rolls, Harper and Annabelle find striking similarities in their stories. Is it just a coincidence that both their mothers died tragically, without revealing Harper and Annabelle’s father’s name?
Oliver’s son Ridge still sees Harper as a troubled teen even all these years later. But when Oliver is attacked, Ridge and Harper find themselves working together to uncover dangerous secrets that threaten to destroy them all. They must unravel her past before they can have any hope for the future.
Suspense, romance, and generational secrets meld in this engrossing new novel from USA TODAY bestselling author Colleen Coble.
“Free-dive into a romantic suspense that will leave you breathless and craving for more.” –DiAnn Mills, bestselling author
“As always, Colleen Coble never disappoints. Strands of Truth is no exception. I was hooked from the first page. Trying to read this story slowly is impossible. Don’t be surprised when you find yourself flipping the pages in a hurry to find out what happens next! This one is for your keeper shelf.” –Lynette Eason, bestselling, award-winning author of the Blue Justice Series
“Colleen Coble’s latest book, Strands of Truth, grips you on page one with a heart-pounding opening and doesn’t let go until the last satisfying word. I love her skill in pulling the reader in with believable, likable characters, interesting locations, and a mystery just waiting to be untangled. Highly recommended.” –Carrie Stuart Parks, bestselling author of Formula of Deception
“Once again, Colleen Coble delivers an intriguing, suspenseful tale in Strands of Truth. The mystery and tension mount toward an explosive and satisfying finish. Well done.” –Creston Mapes, bestselling author
“Just when I think Colleen Coble’s stories can’t get any better, she proves me wrong. In Strands of Truth, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. The characterization of Ridge and Harper and their relationship pulled me immediately into the story. Fast paced, with so many unexpected twists and turns, I read this book in one sitting. Coble has pushed the bar higher than I’d imagined. This book is one not to be missed.” –Robin Caroll, best-selling author of the Darkwater Inn series
“It’s in her blood! Colleen Coble once again shows her suspense prowess with a thriller as intricate and beautiful as a strand of DNA. Strands of Truth dives into an unusual profession involving mollusks and shell beds that weaves a unique, silky thread throughout the story. So fascinating I couldn’t stop reading!” –Ronie Kendig, bestselling author of The Tox Files
BLOG STOPS:
| A Baker’s Perspective, September 3
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Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, September 5
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 5
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Godly Book Reviews, September 5
Through the Fire Blogs, September 6
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Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 7
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D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, September 7
The Becca Files, September 8
Blossoms and Blessings, September 8
Adventures of a Travelers Wife, September 8
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Spoken from the Heart, September 9
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Because I said so and other adventures in parenting. , September 9
Moments, September 10
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For Him and my Family, September 10
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Texas Book-aholic, September 11
Retrospective Spines, September 11
Daysong Reflections, September 11
Christian Bookshelf Reviews , September 11
SusanLovesBooks, September 11
Remembrancy, September 12
Worthy2Read, September 12
Just the Write Escape, September 12
Southern Gal Loves to Read, September 12
Bigreadersite , September 13
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As He Leads is Joy, September 13
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To Everything A Season, September 13
Simple Harvest Reads, September 14
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For The Love of Books , September 14
Living Life Free In Christ, September 14
A Reader’s Brain, September 15
Quiet Quilter , September 15
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Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 15
Inklings and notions , September 16
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Real World Bible Study, September 16
Patiently Waiting, September 16 |
by admin | Sep 6, 2019 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
The Spice King was a very thought provoking novel that examines truth and motivation. Appealing to her devotion to her country and the truth, Annabelle Larkin’s employers convince her to spy on the man she is beginning to care for. Although uneasy about the task, she agrees in order to continue supporting her blind sister. Of course this assignment leads to several unexpected consequences and severed relationships. Although her intentions were mostly good, I felt that Annabelle was very naive in the way she allowed herself to be manipulated into spying on Gray. Her gut feelings were that it was wrong but she convinced herself that it was for a good reason. I hated how she deceived Gray and was not surprised at his reaction when he found out.
I did enjoy The Spice King very much. It was fun to learn so many facts about how spices are produced, especially vanilla. The details about the early days of food regulation and Good Housekeeping magazine were particularly interesting. I also liked reading about how Gray and Annabelle grew spiritually and how their relationship developed despite her deception. I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series and hoping that readers will have a chance to read the rest of Luke’s story and that it will have a positive outcome.
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:
Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building an acclaimed global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Resolved to salvage his family before they spiral out of control, he returns to his ancestral home for good after years of traveling the world.
As a junior botanist for the Smithsonian, Annabelle Larkin has been charged with the impossible task of gaining access to the notoriously private Delacroix plant collection. If she fails, she will be out of a job and the family farm in Kansas will go under. She has no idea that in gaining entrance to the Delacroix world, she will unwittingly step into a web of dangerous political intrigue far beyond her experience.
Unable to deny her attraction to the reclusive business tycoon, Annabelle will be forced to choose between her heart and loyalty to her country. Can Gray and Annabelle find a way through the storm of scandal without destroying the family Gray is fighting to save?
Read an excerpt HERE.
Purchase a copy HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Photo Credit: Photo courtesy of Ginger Murray Photography
Elizabeth Camden (www.elizabethcamden.com) is best known for her historical novels set in Gilded Age America, featuring clever heroines and richly layered storylines. Before she was a writer, she was an academic librarian at some of the largest and smallest libraries in America, but her favorite is the continually growing library in her own home. Her novels have won the RITA and Christy Award, and she lives in Florida with her husband, who graciously tolerates her intimidating stockpile of books.
by admin | Sep 5, 2019 | Books, Colorado, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
In my opinion, it is an indication of a pretty good book when a character elicits strong reactions from me as a reader. Mikayla Gordon did just that to me. While I could empathize with her unexpected medical emergency, her reactions seemed a bit over-the-top to me, especially the sneaky methods she used to collect DNA samples of her family. Then her refusal to listen to explanations was also somewhat disturbing. So, although I definitely did not always agree with this character, I did find her story intriguing and was encouraged by the spiritual growth that was revealed as it progressed.
When Mountains Sing is a fun to read tale of family secrets, forgiveness, spiritual growth, and reconciliation with a touch of romance. I enjoyed the background setting in the mountains of Colorado with its vivid descriptions, especially Dawson’s version of how the mountains sing. Overall this is an excellent book and I’m glad I had the opportunity to read it. I am sure other readers will enjoy it also.
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:
When the truth cost her everything, she thought there was nothing left to lose.
Mikayla Gordon loves nothing more than sleeping under the stars, reeling in the “big one,” and long hikes in the wilderness. A medical crisis reveals a 30-year-old secret that turns everything she’s known and believed upside down, unraveling her dreams and her identity.
In search of answers, she follows a trail from Minnesota to Colorado and discovers more unwelcome secrets even as she falls in love with the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains, and a wilderness camp leader who shares the greatest secret of all.
Knowing her life can never go back to what it was, she must make decisions that will impact far more than just her future.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Stacy Monson is the award-winning author of The Chain of Lakes series, including Shattered Image, Dance of Grace, and The Color of Truth. Her stories reveal an extraordinary God at work in ordinary life. Residing in the Twin Cities, she is the wife of a juggling, unicycling physical education teacher, and a proud mom, and doting grandma.
by admin | Sep 2, 2019 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romantic Suspense
MY REVIEW:
With each installment of her Montana Marshalls series Susan May Warren seems to raise the action and suspense another notch. Ford is even more riveting than the previous books of this series and that is saying a lot. It seems that each of the Marshall brothers has chosen careers attempting to keep up with examples set by at least one of their brothers and perhaps to meet their perceived expectations of their father. So it comes as no surprise that Navy Seal Ford thinks he has a lot to live up to and his twin sister RJ may have fallen into the same mindset. Of course Ford still believes that he is responsible for RJ and when he learns that she is in trouble in Russia, he recruits his friend Scarlett and takes off across the world to rescue RJ.
Ford is pretty much nonstop action from beginning to end with danger around every corner. Each of the main characters has issues they are struggling with in the midst of just trying to stay alive long enough to get RJ out of the country. The author introduces a surprise or two along the way as well as laying some groundwork for Garrett and RJ’s own stories. This book was a true page-turner in every sense of the word. I encourage readers to pick up a copy but highly recommend that they begin reading with book one to get the whole story.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Navy Seal Ford Marshall isn’t the kind to stand by and let a woman get hurt—especially when it involves his twin sister, RJ. So, when she makes the news, accused of sparking an international incident, he doesn’t care what it takes—he’s going to find her and bring her home.
But he might need a little help, so he calls on the woman who has had his back during the last three years—Petty Officer Scarlett Hathaway, former communications expert-turned Rescue Swimmer candidate. She’ll help him get into the country, watch his back, and…well, they might be able to have one last mission together before she leaves for a new life, a life he very much wants to be a part of now that she is off his team. Maybe he can convince her to give them a chance to kindle the spark that’s simmered between them for years.
Scarlett Hathaway isn’t sure what future she wants—not when she suddenly has to care for her little brother. Maybe she should quit the Navy and start a life with the man she can’t seem to get out of her heart. So yes, she’ll help Ford find his sister. And maybe, along the way, figure out if they have a future.
But finding RJ somewhere in the vastness of Russia with the FSB chasing them will push Scarlett beyond even her courage and make her question everything she thought she wanted…including Ford. What will it cost her to love a man who saves the world?
And when Ford is asked to choose between saving his sister, saving the world from a war, and rescuing the woman he loves…can he live with his decision?
Read an excerpt HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
With over 1 million books sold, critically acclaimed novelist Susan May Warren is the Christy, RITA and Carol award-winning author of over forty-five novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press. Known for her compelling plots and unforgettable characters, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic-suspense, thrillers, rom-com and Christmas novellas.
With books translated into eight languages, many of her novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. She’s a three time RITA finalist and an eight time Christy Finalist.
Of her books, Publisher’s Weekly has written, “Warren lays bare her characters’ human frailties, including fear, grief, and resentment, as openly as she details their virtues of love, devotion, and resiliency. She has crafted an engaging tale of romance, rivalry, and the power of forgiveness.”
And Library Journal adds, “Warren’s characters are well-developed and she knows how to create a first rate contemporary romance…”
Susan is also a nationally acclaimed writing coach, teaching at conferences around the nation and winner of the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Mentor of the Year award. She loves to help people launch their writing careers and is the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com and www.LearnHowtoWriteaNovel.com, a writing website that helps authors get published and stay published. She’s also the author of the popular writing method, The Story Equation.
