by admin | May 6, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Medical, Romance, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Richard Mabry was an unfamiliar author to me when I reviewed Diagnosis Death in 2011. Since then I have been blessed with the opportunity to review other books but this outstanding author. I love getting to review his novels but without a doubt I would purchase them if not offered to me for review. Each of his books is somehow related to the medical field, whether set in a hospital or the primary characters are doctors or nurses. I like the fact that Mabry’s suspense novels contain enough pertinent medical facts to authenticate the story but do not overwhelm me with unneeded information.
“Critical Condition” has everything I love about Dr. Mabry’s novels. It began with a shooting and progressed at a rapid rate through an increasingly suspenseful plot that included more murder and mayhem before reaching a dramatic conclusion. The suspense and tension grew at a perfect pace with several unexpected twists. Characters were very well developed. Shannon’s panic attacks, struggles with her faith, and reluctance to commit to her “almost fiance” were just a few of the details that made her as real as one of my friends. Mark was the perfect hero with seemingly unlimited patience and support for Shannon and a strong faith that kept him grounded. Sister Megan’s determination to overcome a sketchy past filled with poor choices was also a strong point.
“Critical Condition” may be my favorite book yet by Dr. Mabry although I have enjoyed them all so far. I hope his next one will not be too far behind. I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy medical suspense.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Dr. Frasier couldn’t save the gunshot victim on her front lawn. Now she’s fighting for her own life.
It began as a quiet dinner party honoring Dr. Shannon Frasier’s colleague, but became a nightmare when a man was shot on her lawn, reviving emotions from a similar episode a decade ago. Then a midnight call from her sister, Megan, causes Shannon to fear that her sister is on drugs again.
Her “almost-fiancé” Dr. Mark Gilbert’s support only adds to Shannon’s feelings of guilt, since she can’t bring herself to fully commit to him. She turns for help to her pastor-father, only to learn that he’s just been diagnosed with leukemia.
Shannon thought it couldn’t get any worse. Then the late-night, threatening phone calls begin, the rough voice asking, “What did he say before he died?”
With everything around her in a critical state, simply staying alive will require all the resources and focus Shannon has.
Learn more and purchase a copy at Richard’s website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A retired physician, Dr. Richard Mabry is the author of seven critically acclaimed novels of medical suspense. His previous works have been finalists for the Carol Award and Romantic Times Reader’s Choice Award, and have won the Selah Award. He is a past Vice-President of American Christian Fiction Writers and a member of the International Thriller Writers. He and his wife live in North Texas.
CRITICAL CONDITION Kindle HDX Giveaway from Richard Mabry!
Richard Mabry’s latest medical suspense, Critical Condition, is receiving high praise. USA TODAY says, “Mabry combines his medical expertise with a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.”
Richard is celebrating the release with a Kindle HDX giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A Kindle Fire HDX
- Critical Condition by Richard Mabry
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 11th. Winner will be announced May 13th on Richard’s blog.
Don’t miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by
Richard’s blog on May 13th to see if you won.
by admin | May 5, 2014 | Books, England, Historical, Mystery, Romance
MY REVIEW:
On the very first page I was pulled directly into the action that paved the way for an exciting story filled with danger and suspense, secrets galore, forbidden romance, and a quest for the family treasure. Many elements of the story brought to mind the gothic novels I loved when I was much younger and reminded me why I loved them.
Elizabeth Trelawney has endured several London seasons without securing a husband and the man her parents want her to marry frightens her. She is weary of men who are interested in her only for her family’s riches and her prime desire is to live her life under the security of her beloved Bastian Point, her grandparents’ home on the Cornwall coast. If she can only discover the family treasure quickly, she will be guaranteed to inherit.
Unfortunately, even Bastian Point is no longer the refuge she once knew. Murder and even an attempt on Elizabeth’s life are only part of the growing sense of danger that surrounds Bastian Point. In addition Elizabeth is increasingly drawn to Rowan Curnow, a man unsuitable for a woman of her station.
I loved every minute of “A Lady’s Honor” and found that the end came much too quickly. I liked both Elizabeth and Rowan and was as surprised as Elizabeth when I learned Rowan’s secret. It was also interesting knowing what the family treasure was and wondering how long it would take Elizabeth to realize it for herself. The plot was filled with several unexpected twists and a major turning point or two. One scene in particular made me want to cheer for Elizabeth.
All-in-all, “A Lady’s Honor” was quite satisfying and I look forward to future novels by Ms. Eakes.
This book was provided for review by the BookLook Blogger Program of Harper Collins Christian Publishing.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Society is concerned about her honor, but Elizabeth must realize her worth doesn’t lie in her inheritance.
In order to avoid a forced marriage to a dangerous man, Elizabeth Trelawney flees London. An unexpected stranger arrives to help her, and as they elude her pursuers across Cornwall in the night, Elizabeth realizes her rescuer, Rowan Curnow, is familiar.
Their differences in social status kept Rowan from pursuing a courtship with the lady his heart wouldn’t let him forget. Now because of dangerous smugglers and local murders, the two are plunged into a reckless alliance that rattles Rowan’s fledgling faith in God.
The closer they get to Bastian Point-Elizabeth’s true home-the more she realizes it is the only place she longs to be. Even the sight of its solid structure perched on the cliffs makes her feel safe. Elizabeth is the most likely to inherit Bastian Point if Grandfather never learns she spent the night, however innocently, with a near stranger.
As spring warms into summer, Elizabeth finds herself torn between wanting to be the perfect grandchild and her growing love for a man of whom no one will approve as a match for her, a man she knows she shouldn’t entirely trust. Unsure whether she is being foolish or following the right path, she sets out with Rowan on a quest to find the true culprit behind the local violence.
Their quest leads them to danger, and she must choose whether to follow the man she loves or cling to the safety of her family home.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
“Eakes has a charming way of making her novels come to life without being over the top,” writes Romantic times of bestselling, award-winning author Laurie Alice Eakes. Since she lay in bed as a child telling herself stories, she has fulfilled her dream of becoming a published author. To date, she has sixteen books in print with five more under contract for release over the next two years. Eight of her books have been published in large print editions, one as a Crossings Bookclub hardcover edition, and one book has been put into Braille.
A graduate of Asbury University with a degree in English and French, and Seton Hill University, with a masters degree in Writing Popular Fiction, she also writes articles in writers publications, teaches writing workshops, and gives inspirational talks.
She lives in Texas with her husband, dogs, and cats. She enjoys long walks, all too rare rainy days, and knitting—rather badly—while watching movies or listening to music.
Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaurieAEakes
Read excerpts from her books at: http://www.lauriealiceeakes.com
by admin | May 5, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have read and enjoyed quite a few novels by DeeAnne Gist over the past several years. One thing that comes to mind when I think about her books is the amount of humor that she manages to insert into her historical romance stories. “Fair Play” follows that general form with a moderate amount of levity but on the whole, its content is much more serious.
Set against the backdrop of the Chicago World’s Fair, the chapters open with actual photos taken either at the World’s Fair or in scenes comparable to those in the story. Billy Jack Tate is a woman doctor working at the fair while attempting to establish her own medical practice at a time when women doctors are frowned upon. Hunter Scott is a Texas ranger also working at the fair as a guard at the women’s building, a position he feels is quite below his personal qualifications. Hunter and Billy Jack clash repeatedly because of their different outlooks on men and women’s places in society but as can be expected, an attraction begins to grow between them.
The romance between Billy Jack and Hunter is well and good but to me the meat of this story was the contrast between the opulent buildings of the World’s Fair and the deplorable living conditions in the low income area that was nearby. The neglect and mistreatment of children were especially heart-breaking, especially the child left chained alone in an apartment while the rest of her family worked and the children thrown and kept in jail for minor infractions.
Most fiction has its heroes and villains and “Fair Play” had its share. Although the plot may have moved a bit slowly at times, it never failed to hold my interest. Dialogue between Billy Jack and Hunter was often amusing. They both held firm opinions but their hearts were compassionate. I loved the scenes about the development of the first city park and the dedication of the women at Hull House toward helping the children.
“Fair Play” was not the most entertaining and carefree novel I’ve read by DeeAnne Gist but as historical fiction, it is top notch. I recommend it highly.
This book was provided for review by Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster, Inc.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Saddled with a man’s name, the captivating Billy Jack Tate makes no apologies for taking on a man’s profession. As a doctor at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, she is one step closer to having her very own medical practice—until Hunter Scott asks her to give it all up to become his wife.
Hunter is one of the elite. A Texas Ranger and World’s Fair guard specifically chosen for his height, physique, character, and skill. Hailed as the toughest man west of any place east, he has no patience for big cities and women who think they belong anywhere but home…
Despite their difference of opinion on the role of women, Hunter and Billy find a growing attraction between them—until Hunter discovers an abandoned baby in the corner of a White City exhibit. He and Billy team up to make sure this foundling isn’t left in the slums of Chicago with only the flea-riddled, garbage-infested streets for a playground. As they fight for the underprivileged children in the Nineteenth Ward, an entire Playground Movement is birthed. But when the Fair comes to an end, one of them will have to give up their dream.
Will Billy exchange her doctor’s shingle for the domesticated role of a southern wife, or will Hunter abandon the wide open spaces of home for a life in the “gray city,” a woman who insists on being the wage earner, and a group of ragamuffins who need more than a playground for breathing space?
Read an excerpt from “Fair Play” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Deeanne Gist has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very fun, original historical and contemporary novels. She has received three RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and rave reviews. With a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&M, Deeanne has written for People, Parents, and Parenting magazine. She has four grown children and lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband. Visit her online at IWantHerBook.com and at Facebook.com/DeesFriends.
by admin | May 3, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“One Perfect Spring” is a touching story that warms the heart and leaves the reader with hope. Each of the four primary characters’ lives have been affected in one way or another by the death of a spouse, catastrophic disease, or abandonment. The well-intentioned letter written by one young girl with a compassionate heart brought the four individuals together for a quest that would bring them healing, renewal, and even unexpected romance that they could never have imagined.
In contrast to Hannon’s dynamic suspense novels, “One Perfect Spring” is more like a leisurely stroll through the garden. Along the path, the reader gets to know each character intimately and can easily understand what motivates him or her. Interaction between characters was superb. I loved how each of them demonstrated care towards the others despite their own personal issues. Adoption is a prominent theme that is approached from several viewpoints which paints a broader picture than is usually portrayed. The plot contained several surprises, not all of them pleasant, but was all the more believable for that reason. The faithfulness of God is a theme that was woven unobtrusively through the story.
Fans of Hannon’s suspense novels should be sure to give “One Perfect Spring” a try also. She has shown herself to be a talented storyteller no matter the genre. I highly recommend this novel and hope that you will enjoy it also.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Independent single mom Claire Summers is doing her best to make lemonade out of the lemons life has handed her. Workaholic Keith Watson is interested only in the bottom line–until a letter from Claire’s eleven-year-old daughter reaches his desk and changes everything.
As the executive assistant to a philanthropic businessman, Keith is used to fielding requests for donations. But the girl isn’t asking for money. She wants help finding the long-lost son of a neighbor. As Keith reluctantly digs into this assignment in his usual results-oriented style, he has no idea how involved he and Claire will become–nor how unusual the results will actually be. Who could have guessed that a child’s kindhearted request would bring love and hope to so many lives . . . including his own?
Through compelling characters and surprising plot twists, fan favorite Irene Hannon offers this tenderhearted story that demonstrates how life is like lilacs–the biggest blooms come only after the harshest winters.
Read an excerpt from “One Perfect Spring” HERE.
Praise for That Certain Summer:
“The lives of these endearing characters intertwine over a summer and undergo change as Hannon has readers rooting for each of them in this uplifting story about love and redemption.”–Publishers Weekly
“A thoughtful tale that captures the reader from the very first pages. Irene Hannon knows the power of words and the miracle of faith.”–New York Journal of Books
“Efficient, beautiful storytelling and genuine, vulnerable, faithful characters are the strength of this story. This one simultaneously moves you to tears, makes you laugh, and leaves you speechless while warming your heart. A gem of a read.”–RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars
“Hannon creates characters that we can both relate to and root for; we learn from their lives as we are also entertained–the true mark of an amazing summer read.”–Hope for Women
“That Certain Summer is as much a women’s fiction title as it is inspirational romance. The story moves along at a steady pace, and the lives of the characters intersect with few surprises, yet it is in such a way that the beauty of ‘normal life’ takes on fresh dimension. A great weekend or rainy-day read, That Certain Summer will warm your heart and might even make you take a fresh look at some of the difficult relationships in your life.”–Serena Chase, USA Today Happily Ever After blog
“Hannon’s latest is a tender story that addresses how one action stemming from compassion can affect the lives of several people. Her expert storytelling taps at matters of the heart in lyrical, beautiful language, with sympathetic characters who will endear themselves to readers. A well-developed and inspiring plot, coupled with efficient pacing leaves readers with a sweet, heartwarming read.”–RT Book Reviews
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of more than forty romantic suspense and contemporary romance novels, including the 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. Irene lives in Missouri. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.
