by admin | Oct 2, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
I always look forward to Irene Hannon’s latest suspense novel because I know I will find a fast-paced story with dynamic characters, plenty of action, mystery, and suspense with the added bonus of a pretty good love story. “Deceived” lived up to every one of my expectations. I had already read the two previous books in Hannon’s Private Justice series so I enjoyed getting to read Connor’s story. It has been fun for me to observe the interaction between the three partners from each of their own unique perspectives.
Connor’s new client has presented him with an unlikely story but something about it prompts him to check it out. Kate’s husband and young son died in a boating accident several years ago but her son’s body was never found. Kate’s husband and young son died in a boating accident several years ago but her son’s body was never recovered. A seemingly coincidental encounter in the local mall raises Kate’s hopes that her son may still be alive and hires Connor to investigate. As his efforts convince him that the boy is Kate’s son, he must find a way to prove it with more than circumstantial evidence. Early in the story, the reader learns who has Kate’s son but details about how and why he has him are slowly revealed as the narrative progresses. Hannon portrays this man in such a way that it is difficult not to sympathize with him just a bit as well as with Kate who has grieved her loss for several years – yet she does not in any way excuse his actions.
The plot moved along at a good pace with sufficient twists and surprises to hold my attention. Although the Christian element is not heavy-handed, the message of faith was evident, especially as Kate and Connor acknowledged the hand of God in how certain things happened to help the investigation. “Deceived” may not have been quite as suspenseful as previous novels, but in my opinion did not suffer because of it. It is an excellent suspense and I hate to see this series end. I am looking forward to the next one!
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A grieving mother. A mysterious child. And a dedicated PI who’s determined to solve the puzzle.
For three years, Kate Marshall has been mourning the loss of her husband and four-year-old son in a boating accident. But when she spots a familiar-looking child on a mall escalator, she’s convinced it’s her son. With police skeptical of her story, she turns to private investigator Connor Sullivan for help. As the former Secret Service agent digs into the case, the boating “accident” begins to look increasingly suspicious. But if Kate’s son is alive, someone is intent on keeping him hidden–and may go to lethal lengths to protect a sinister secret.
As Irene Hannon’s many fans have come to expect, Deceived is filled with complex characters, unexpected twists, and a riveting plotline that accelerates to an explosive finish.
Praise for Irene Hannon’s Private Justice Series
- “Yet another in the line of terrific reads by this author . . . rich with suspense.”–Suspense Magazine on Deceived
- “A home run.”–Library Journal on Trapped
- “Spine-tingling.”–Booklist on Trapped
- “Just the right amount of suspense, danger, and deception.”–New York Journal of Books on Trapped
- “An engaging, satisfying tale.”–Publishers Weekly on Vanished
- “A wonderful mix of suspense and romance.”–RT Book Reviews on Vanished
Read an excerpt from “Deceived” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Irene Hannon is the author of more than forty-five novels, including Vanished, Trapped, and the bestselling Heroes of Quantico and Guardians of Justice series. Her books have been honored with two coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, a Carol Award, two HOLT Medallions, a Daphne du Maurier Award, two Reviewers’ Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine, a Retailers’ Choice Award, and a National Readers’ Choice Award. In addition, she is a Christy Award finalist, and Booklist included one of her novels in its “Top 10 Inspirational Fiction” list for 2011. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.
by admin | Sep 27, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Quilts, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
One thing I have enjoyed about the Quilts of Love series is the sheer variety of themes among the featured books. So far I have read everything from Amish stories to Historical tales plus contemporary novels and sometimes even some mystery and suspense – all of which contain at least one romantic relationship. I have been a fan of Robin’s books since I first read some of her early Love Inspired Suspense novels. Since then she has gone on to write excellent full-length suspense novels that I make sure to obtain asap. Hidden in the Stars is Robin’s contribution to the Quilts of Love series and is a fine example of her versatility.
The somewhat pastel colors of the cover of Hidden in the Stars might trick the reader into thinking this novel is just a sweet romance. Never fear! Robin has woven her usual brilliant suspenseful mystery complete with some dastardly characters in which a quilt plays a major role. And let’s not forget the romance. Sparks fly between Sophia, victim of a brutal attack that killed her mother and investigating detective Julian. Although both of them feel a strong attraction, they decide it is just a reaction resulting from the aftermath of such a devastating crime. Could it be true love?
I enjoyed learning a bit about ballet and gymnastic training. I also liked seeing Julian’s perspective of the investigation. Most of all, I just loved having another novel by Robin Caroll in my hands. My only complaint is that it was over too soon.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A quilt holds the secret to a killer still at large—and who his next victim will be.
Following an attack that killed her mother and stole her ability to speak, 21?year?old Sophia Montgomery has no choice but to accept her estranged grandmother’s offer to return to their family home. Although detective Julian Frazier is working hard on the case, Sophia unknowingly frustrates him because her inability to speak thwarts her eyewitness evidence. The fact that Julian is undeniably attracted to Sophia doesn’t help either, so Julian hides his feelings as concern for a trauma victim and focuses instead on finding the killer.
Little do they know, the clues to solving the case may be right in front of them, displayed in Sophia’s mother’s “special” quilt design. Who will realize the secret Sophia’s unwittingly been hiding in plain sight? When the truth comes to light, will Sophia find her voice again? Or will the murderer—still at large—silence her forever?
Visit the Quilts of Love website to learn more and purchase a copy.
Read an excerpt from “Hidden in the Stars” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Robin Caroll is the author of 22 published novels. When she isn’t writing, Robin spends time with her husband of 20?plus years, her three beautiful daughters and two handsome grandsons, and their character?filled pets at home in Little Rock, Arkansas. She gives back to the writing community by serving as conference director for ACFW. Her books have been named finalists in such contests as the Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, RT Reviewer’s Choice Award, Bookseller’s Best, and Book of the Year.
Find out more about Robin at http://www.robincaroll.com.
Don’t miss the newest Quilts of Love book, Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll. September’s QOL release is a wonderful combination of mystery, romance, and family love bound together by a quilt and the story it tells.
Enter to win a “Night on the Town” (a $200 Visa cash card!) and RSVP for the “Fall into Fall” Quilts of Love Facebook party on 10/7.
One winner will receive:
- A $200 Visa cash card (The perfect accessory for a “night on the town”!)
- A Grand Design by Amber Stockton
- Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 7. Winner will be announced at the October 7th author chat party with Amber Stockton and Robin Caroll! RSVP for an evening of book chat, quilting tips and tricks, prizes, and more!
RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on October 7th!
by admin | Sep 23, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Magnolia Market” took hold of my attention and imagination from the very first pages with a story that seemed to get more convoluted by the minute. It is a fact that Avery’s day took a turn she did not expect and everything got progressively worse as the week went on. But sometimes God takes our worst times and turns them into something beautiful and that is exactly what He did for Avery.
“Magnolia Market” is an excellent example about why first impressions are not always correct. It is so easy to judge others based on just a few facts that are sometimes very misleading. It is also a story about doing the right thing even when others do not deserve it. I really admired the way Avery refused to retaliate against the mistreatment from her in-laws but instead gained new friends and confidence as she worked to help others and eventually was able to stand up for herself. T.J. was a great hero, a man with loads of integrity and compassion for others. He showed respect to his mother even when he didn’t agree with her.
I actually became so engrossed in Avery’s story that I stayed awake until the wee hours of the morning and was surprised when I actually stopped to look at a clock. Needless to say, I suffered from lack of sleep the next day – but it was worth it. “Magnolia Market” is a fun contemporary romance with a lesson or two about life and faith. I definitely recommend it.
This book was provided for review by the BookLook Blogger
Program of Harper Collins Christian Publishing..
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The self-help books lied: fresh starts aren’t nearly as glamorous as they appear. And love isn’t any easier the second time around.
Avery Broussard was savoring her long-dormant optimism. It was the first anniversary of her husband’s death, and she was finally going to buy the dress boutique from her former mother-in-law. After a year of saving, the deal was nearly done. Avery was about to get her life back.
But every deal in Samford, Louisiana, can change at the whim of a Broussard.
After being unceremoniously ejected from the very boutique she planned to buy—the boutique she herself had rescued from ruin—she becomes a woman without a future . . . suddenly at war with her late husband’s family.
When carpenter T. J. Aillet begins working for the Broussards doing manual labor, he overhears enough to know that Avery is being victimized. Soon enough, T. J. is lassoed into the squabble by his family connections, his good heart . . . and the undeniable attraction he feels toward Avery.
But the Aillets are no strangers to Samford society—and T. J. knows what happens when you cross the Broussards. Could these two misfits ever make a start together? Or will the pressures of Samford society pull them apart before they even get a chance to try?
About the Author
Judy Christie writes fiction with a Louisiana flavor. She is the author of the Green series of novels including Gone to Green. A fan of primitive antiques and porch swings, she blogs from her green kitchen couch at www.judychristie.com. She and her husband live in northern Louisiana.
by admin | Sep 22, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Historical, Native American, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Beneath a Navajo Moon” is the first novel I have read by Lisa Carter. I guarantee it won’t be the last one! I chose it from Amazon’s Vine for All rather than my personal queue. Although I purchase Christian fiction almost exclusively, I have yet to be offered any in my personal queue. I wish Amazon would pay a bit closer attention to what I actually buy.
Without knowing anything at all about the author, I would probably pick up this book based entirely upon its gorgeous cover. The colors and title arrangement are just perfect. Once I opened the book, I quickly became immersed in the story which moved smoothly back and forth from present time to the early 1900’s. The characters were engaging with just the right amount of tension between them. I do not know a great deal about the Navajo culture so I cannot verify the accuracy of details included within the story. The plot contained a well-blended combination of drama, action, humor, suspense, and romance and some unexpected twists. The uncompromised message of faith was appreciated and I personally did not think it was too preachy.
“Beneath a Navajo Moon” kept me reading much too late into the night and I reached its end much too soon. I am looking forward to reading “Under a Turquoise Sky” in the near future. I really liked this novel and will be checking out Carter’s other ones.
This book was provided for review by the Amazon Vine Reviewer Program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Discover what happens when love and danger collide deep in the heart of the Navajo Nation.
The search for a woman who disappeared in 1906 has lead cultural anthropologist Erin Dawson to Cedar Canyon, where the iconic terrain of red rock walls and mesas keep Navajo traditions—and maybe criminal evidence—well hidden. When Erin’s search leads her to cross paths with tribal policeman Adam Silverhorn, it’s hardly love at first sight. But everywhere she turns, Adam is already there.Fighting their feelings for each other, the two are suddenly thrust into a battle far more dangerous—a common quest to rout an insidious drug cartel that has spawned the recent rise in gang violence on the reservation. Adam’s position of authority gives Erin a rare glimpse into Navajo life few outsiders like her ever see—and into a crime ring that no one dares to imagine. As danger mounts, Adam and Erin begin to wonder if they will live to tell how they really feel.
You can purchase a copy of “Beneath a Navajo Moon HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Carter is the author of Carolina Reckoning and Aloha Rose, and a writer and teacher whose articles have appeared in FamilyFun, Thriving Family, MomSense, and Christian Parenting Today. She is a frequent speaker and vocalist at women’s ministry events and has taught at the collegiate, high school, and middle school levels. Lisa is a member of ACFW, RWA and Sisters in Crime. When she isn’t writing, Lisa enjoys traveling, quilting, and researching her next romantic adventure. She and her husband have two daughters and make their home in Raleigh, North Carolina. Visit her online at LisaCarterAuthor.com.
