by admin | Aug 25, 2017 | Books, England, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have read and thoroughly enjoyed several novels by Roseanna M. White but “A Name Unknown” is absolutely the best one thus far. I honestly can’t imagine the next one being any better but if this author continues at this rate, anything is possible.
The story features two strong characters, both of whom are hiding secrets. Each of them also believes themselves to be unworthy of the other’s attention. I loved watching the healing that took place in their hearts as they got to know each other through their written notes and study of scripture. Plenty of drama, mystery, humor, and a special romance captured me from the beginning and didn’t let go until the very end. I loved the fact that neither Peter nor Rosemary were typical characters. The ironic fact that best-selling author Peter struggled with a stutter made him all the more endearing. And Rosemary’s attitudes and ideas formed by her unfortunate background were bound to come crashing down.
“A Name Unknown” is a wonderful story of changed hearts and unbiased love that was a joy to read. I hope you will take a chance on it too.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author and Bethany House. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She’s Out to Steal His Name. Will He Steal Her Heart Instead?
Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins who helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they are no longer pickpockets–instead they focus on high value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. Rosemary is beginning to question whether she can continue in this life when she’s offered the challenge of a lifetime–determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany. After all how does one steal a family’s history, their very name?
As Europe moves ever closer to World War I, rumors swirl around Peter Holstein. Awkward and solitary, but with access to the king, many fear his influence. But Peter can’t help his German last name and wants to prove his loyalty to the Crown–so he can go back to anonymously writing a series of popular adventure novels. When Rosemary arrives on his doorstep pretending to be a well-credentialed historian, Peter believes she’s the right person to help him dig through his family’s past.
When danger and suspicion continue to mount, both realize they’re in a race against time to discover the truth–about Peter’s past and about the undeniable attraction kindling between them.
Read an excerpt HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of nine novels, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her new British series. Roseanna lives with her family in West Virginia. Learn more at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
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by admin | Aug 23, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Historical, Scotland, Split Time
MY REVIEW:
“The Legacy” was a fine conclusion to Michael Phillips’ Secrets of the Shetlands series. This particular volume was lengthy and there was some repetition from the previous two books; however it did serve to catch me up on things I had forgotten during the months between reading them. Although mostly a continuation of Loni and David’s story, readers might just find a bonus romantic tale or two within the pages.
As the story bounces between the present with Loni and David and the past with the story of Brogan and Emily, it can be just a bit slow at times but so many questions are answered by the story of Loni’s great-grandparents that everything finally makes sense. “The Legacy” is not a lightweight book that can be easily read in one sitting but is one with plenty of meat to chew on, especially when it comes to matters of faith and what it means to be centered in God. Theological discussions are scattered throughout so those who do not like that should probably avoid this book. I personally reached the end with much to ponder and am quite happy that I had the opportunity to read the entire series.
I enjoyed spending a few hours with Loni, David, and even Hardy as well as going back in time with Brogan and Emily. It was a satisfying read with a strong theme of forgiveness that I will remember for a long time.
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:
The Dramatic Conclusion to the Secrets of the Shetlands
Loni Ford’s unexpected inheritance of substantial real estate–not to mention a title–in the Shetland Islands has caused more than a stir in the quiet fishing hamlet of Whales Reef. How can life ever be the same with an outsider–and a woman at that–playing such a pivotal role in the life of this traditional community? But it isn’t just the locals who have deep misgivings about the current situation. Loni herself never imagined this in her wildest dreams and wonders whether she’s cut out for it.
Loni would hardly let herself acknowledge that she’s falling in love–with Whales Reef, with its hardy people, and with local chieftain David Tulloch, whose inheritance she has usurped, at least in the eyes of some. Or has she merely been seduced by the simple, peaceful way of life that exists here?
Yet life in Whales Reef is rarely without drama. Deep rifts exist between certain lifelong neighbors, and when a dead body is discovered, suspicion is cast in the direction of the Tulloch family. How Loni and David face up to this challenge will profoundly shape their relationship, as well as the future of the island.
Read an excerpt HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Michael Phillips is a bestselling author who has penned more than seventy books, both fiction and nonfiction. In addition, he has served as editor/redactor of nearly thirty more books. Over the past thirty years, his persistent efforts have helped reawaken interest in the writings of nineteenth century Scotsman George MacDonald. Michael and his wife, Judy, spend time each year in Scotland, but make their home near Sacramento, California. Visit Michael’s website at www.fatheroftheinklings.com.
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by admin | Aug 20, 2017 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I have loved this entire series featuring female bodyguards. These tough and tenacious gals are equipped to do their job well but they each have their feminine side and are vulnerable as the next woman to falling in love. It has been such fun to read about each of the women in the agency as well as the men who enter their lives in the course of their work and it’s equally fun to see how these men usually take it upon themselves to protect the women who make their livings protecting others.
“Chasing Secrets” is Haley’s story and what a story it is. Born in Ireland, Haley has lived in the U.S. for awhile working for the Elite Guardians Agency where she meets Detective Steven while working on a case. As can be expected, Haley’s life is endangered and Steven appoints himself as her guardian. But there are several aspects to the danger and it is difficult to pinpoint where the real threat lies. Secrets from Haley’s unknown roots are revealed that threaten to knock her feet out from under her but God is at work through it all.
As in the previous novels of this series, “Chasing Secrets” is filled with exciting and suspense filled action that keeps those pages turning. Danger from every direction and a growing romance added to my enjoyment. Lynette Eason is a pro when it comes to writing romantic suspense and I have recommended her books to my friends who also refuse to miss one.
I found myself at the end much too soon and craving more. Dare I hope that this is not the last book of the series? I would love to read more about the new agents who were introduced in this book. If you enjoy romantic suspense and have not read this series, GO immediately and pick up “Chasing Secrets” and all the previous books of the series if you possibly can.
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:
Intensity. Skill. Tenacity.
The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have it all.
When a photo leads investigators in West Ireland to open a twenty-five-year-old cold case, Elite Guardians bodyguard Haley Callaghan’s life is suddenly in danger. Haley knows how to take care of herself; after all, she’s made a career out of taking care of others. But after she has an uncomfortably close call, Detective Steven Rothwell takes it upon himself to stay with her–and the young client she has taken under her wing. A protector at heart, he’s not about to let Haley fight this battle alone.
In a sweeping plot that takes them into long-buried memories–and the depths of the heart–Haley and Steven will have to solve the mystery of Haley’s past while dodging bullets, bombs, and bad guys who just won’t quit.
Read an excerpt HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice series, the Deadly Reunions series, and the Hidden Identity series, as well as Always Watching, Without Warning, Moving Target, and Chasing Secrets in the Elite Guardians series. She is the winner of two ACFW Carol Awards, the Selah Award, and the Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award. She has a master’s degree in education from Converse College and lives in South Carolina. Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.
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by admin | Aug 11, 2017 | Books, Historical, Nashville, Tennessee
MY REVIEW:
I have enjoyed every book I’ve read by Tamara Alexander so I always look forward to her latest offering. If asked which is my favorite, I would probably say, “the one I just read”. That would be an absolutely true statement about “To Wager Her Heart”, the final Belle Meade Plantation novel.
As a fellow Tennessean, I love that this author has chosen to write about Nashville’s history. Although I am from west Tennessee, I have visited Nashville several times and find its history quite interesting. It is so gratifying to find myself in the middle of a engrossing novel only to realize how much true history is woven so seamlessly into its plot. I do love learning this way.
With strong primary characters who were easy to admire, an intriguing plot, a bit of mystery, a touch of romance, and a huge dose of Nashville history, this book keep me reading until the wee hours. I particularly liked reading about the history of Fisk University and its Jubilee Singers. A compelling message of faith is deftly incorporated throughout the story without being overbearing. It was encouraging to read about how prayers were answered even during the most seemingly hopeless situations.
I could go on but I fear I might reveal too much. Needless to say, I highly recommend “To Wager Her Heart” for all who love historical fiction. In my opinion, this is a must read.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Amazon Vine. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
With fates bound by a shared tragedy, a reformed gambler from the Colorado Territory and a Southern Belle bent on breaking free from society’s expectations must work together to achieve their dreams—provided the truth doesn’t tear them apart first.
Seeking justice . . .
Sylas Rutledge, the new owner of the Northeast Line Railroad, invests everything he has into this venture, partly for the sake of the challenge. But mostly to clear his father’s name. One man holds the key to Sy’s success—General William Giles Harding of Nashville’s Belle Meade Plantation. But Harding is champagne and thoroughbreds, and Sy Rutledge is beer and bullocks. Sy needs someone to help him maneuver his way through Nashville’s society, and when he meets Alexandra Jamison, he quickly decides he’s found his tutor. Only, he soon discovers that the very train accident his father is blamed for causing is what killed Alexandra Jamison’s fiancé—and has broken her heart.
Struggling to restore honor . . .
Spurning an arranged marriage by her father, Alexandra instead pursues her passion for teaching at Fisk University, the first freedmen’s university in the United States. But family—and Nashville society—do not approve, and she soon finds herself cast out from both.
Through connections with the Harding family, Alexandra and Sy become unlikely allies. And despite her first impressions, Alexandra gradually finds herself coming to respect, and even care for this man. But how can she, when her heart is still spoken for? And when Sy’s roguish qualities and adventuresome spirit smack more of recklessness than responsibility and honor?
Sylas Rutledge will risk everything to win over the woman he loves. What he doesn’t count on is having to wager her heart to do it.
Set against the real history of Nashville’s Belle Meade Plantation and the original Fisk University Jubilee Singers ensemble, To Wager Her Heart is a stirring love story about seeking justice and restoring honor at a time in American history when both were tenuous and hard-won.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mandy Whitley Photography
Tamera Alexander is a USA Today bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers in the historical fiction genre. She and her husband live in Nashville, Tennessee, not far from the Southern mansions that serve as the backdrop for six of her award-winning novels. For more about Tamera’s books, visit www.TameraAlexander.com
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