Review of THE VOICE WE FIND by Nicole Deese

On April 16, 2025 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review7 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780764241208

Publication date:04/15/2025

Pages:416

Two voices. One story. A chance to rewrite their future.

Sophie Wilder returns home to California with nothing more than a failed Broadway career and a geriatric cat. Stuck working at the family winery with her egotistical brother and desperate for a way to revive her acting dreams, she takes a side gig as an audiobook narrator with Fog Harbor Books. But getting mixed up in the life of her reluctant sound engineer was never a part of her plans.

August Tate is still reeling from taking on guardianship of his teen sister. Determined to find a solution to her degenerative hearing loss and to prevent his private recording studio from going under, he agrees to produce audiobooks part-time. When Sophie breathes new life into his creativity and forms an unexpected bond with his sister rooted in their common faith, he must confront the reasons he turned away from his own or risk losing the second chance he’s only just started to believe in.

My Thoughts

This book has multiple layers as well as a great cast of characters, all dealing with their own emotional baggage. I enjoyed the moderate pace which was perfect for the story since it allowed me to really think about what I was reading and how I would handle a similar situation. I also enjoyed the way the characters were so well developed, in a very methodical way as they conversed and interacted. The story flowed together just as the characters ran into bumps in their interpersonal relationships. I really enjoyed the way the author brought the three stories of Sophie, August and Gabby’s stories, with details that quickly got me invested in their lives and wanting the best for each of them. Sophie is an actress who has problems being on the stage and performing, August is feeling guilty about his parents’ deaths and Gabby is dealing with being left deaf in the same accident that took her parents. I was amazed by the strong characters and the layers of the story that peeled apart like an onion skin, revealing the heart of the problem and the hopes of each character in a believable and compassionate way. This is my first book that I have read by this author, but I definitely plan to look for others since I had difficulty putting this one down and had to tell others about how great it was right after finishing it. With the themes of self-discovery and forgiveness, this is a book that lends itself to group discussions in book clubs.
Disclaimer
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. (FTC, 16th CFR, Part 255)

About the Author

Nicole Deese is a Christy and Carol Award-winning, bestselling author of hope-filled, humorous, and heartfelt contemporary romance novels. When she’s not sorting out character arcs and story plots of her own, she can usually be found listening to an audiobook and multitasking at least four different chores at once. She’s a hoarder of sparkling water, a lover of long walks and even longer talks with friends, and a seeker of fun and adventure at all times. She lives in small-town, Idaho with her happily-ever-after hubby, two freakishly tall teenage sons, and one princess daughter with the heart of a warrior.

Purchase Links

Amazon

Christian Book

Barnes and Noble

Baker Publishing Group

Apple Books

Audible

Just Reads Blog Tour: Waylaid by Jerusha Agen

On April 14, 2025April 14, 2025 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Promo, Book Review6 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Waylaid by Jerusha Agen, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Waylaid
Series: Windy City Westons #1
Author: Jerusha Agen
Publisher: SDG Words, LLC
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Someone wants to kill her. She wants the killer to finish the job.

Spring Weston will do anything to rise in the ranks of pro cycling and prove she isn’t the one failure of the five Weston siblings. Anything except cheat. When she learns of doping on her cycling team, she’s determined to uncover the truth. But she can’t if she’s dead.

Sergeant Torin Cotter may not be the hero the public thinks he is, but he recognizes fear when he sees it. When he takes over the investigation of the collision that landed Spring in the hospital, he’s compelled to protect her from whatever danger she’s in, even though he knows he might fail. Again.

Spring’s faith in God isn’t enough to help her face the living nightmare she awakened to after the accident. But neither she nor the handsome sergeant see the greater threat that’s coming until it’s too late.

If they’re going to survive, Spring and Torin will not only have to confront their worst fears—they’ll have to find a reason to live.

Waylaid is the first installment in the thrilling Windy City Westons series that features five siblings who encounter danger and love in the city of Chicago.

My Thoughts

What a stellar beginning to a new series by the talented Jerusha Agen! The story of Spring Weston, a rising star in pro cycling until she is paralyzed in a hit and run accident is heartbreaking and totally absorbing. The police officer assigned to investigate her case, Detective Torin Cotter, is suffering himself from a past that he can’t change and a future that he considers hopeless. The two of them have to come to grips with their present reality and decide if they want to accept God’s will for their lives or just give up on life. When Torin is faced with having to keep Spring safe in spite of his challenges with hearing gunfire, he is forced to face his demons or suffer another unimaginable tragedy. The choices in this novel are realistically portrayed and the characters and storyline are compelling. This is a story of forgiveness that seems impossible and self-discovery that leads to a chance at grabbing onto hope for the future. I loved every minute I spent with Torin and Spring as their characters popped from the page into my heart and I found myself giving both of them advice and even praying for their safety. The entire story was well written with compassion and a heartfelt understanding of injuries, both mental and physical. Fans of fantastic romantic suspense will want to dive into this book and not surface until the satisfying conclusion!
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

More in this Series

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About the Author

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. With a B.A. in English and a background in screenwriting, Jerusha is a speaker, writing instructor, and Fear Warrior who sounds the call to battle against fear in our everyday lives. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats. You’ll often find her sharing irresistibly adorable photos of them in her newsletter and on social media.

Connect with Jerusha by visiting jerushaagen.com to follow her on social media, subscribe to email newsletter updates, find more of her thrilling, fear-fighting novels and get a free suspense story.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of Waylaid, a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card, and a Waylaid mug, notebook, and magnet!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight April 14, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 21, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Watch Your Back Blog Tour from Just Read Publicity Tours

On March 6, 2025March 6, 2025 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Promo, Book Review, JustRead Publicity Tour11 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Watch Your Back by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Watch Your Back
Series: Crossroads Suspense #3
Author: Kristen Hogrefe Parnell
Publisher: Mountain Brook Ink
Release Date: March 5, 2025
Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

You can’t watch your own back.

Private Investigator Avery Reynolds leads the charge to expose Tampa’s supposedly “extinct” mob. The crime boss responsible for her foster brother’s death is within her grasp—until she hits a wall in the form of Ethan Bridger, a Coast Guard veteran who unknowingly derails her sting operation. When the elusive “Big Eddie” comes out of hiding, he targets their mutual friends about to tie the knot.

Avery sets aside her angst toward Ethan to focus on ending the crime boss’s reign of terror. But working together exposes her trust issues and his PTSD stemming from a comrade’s tragedy. When Avery goes solo into a prisoner exchange operation, she discovers her vulnerability too late—and must lean on Ethan and the God she thought had abandoned her. But will that help reach her in time?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

More In This Series

My Thoughts

This faith-filled and compellingly suspense-filled novel had me on the edge of my seat and kept me totally engrossed in the story. The basic plot had lots of elements that made it entertaining and realistic, including a kidnapped child, a powerful crime boss, and a team of private investigators who are doggedly determined to carry out their responsibilities. Avery Reynolds is on the trail of “Big Eddie” but cannot quite catch him when he turns the tables on her by kidnapping her godchild. All bets are off when Ethan Bridger, a security specialist, finds out what is happening and makes it his personal mission to keep Avery safe and to help her capture the crime king. The characters were perfectly portrayed, especially Avery and her reluctance to accept the Lord as her Savior. Ethan and Avery are both on the same road, seeking salvation, kind of, but mostly just wanting to live their lives without interference. The action is non-stop with a quick pace and an amazing attention to details in the main plot as well as the sub-plots. I enjoyed the wedding scenes at the beginning that introduced the characters and allowed me to get to know them again. So, even if I had not read the previous books in the series, this one could have been enjoyed as a standalone. I like the way faith is included in the book and all of the loose ends are tied up, including bringing refugees from Cuba. There were a lot of twists and some really surprising developments as the story progressed. This is Christian romantic suspense at its best.
Disclaimer
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

About the Author

Kristen Hogrefe Parnell writes suspenseful fiction from a faith perspective for women and young adults. A former English teacher, she now designs curriculum for a Christian academy and spends most of her time at her favorite assignment to date: being a mom to her toddler. Her books have won the Selah Award and the Grace Award, among others. She lives in the Tampa, Florida area with her husband and son.

Connect with Kristen by visiting kristenhogrefeparnell.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Watch Your Back & a $25 Amazon e-gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight March 5, 2025 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 12, 2025. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

______________________________________________________________

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Review of STORM WARNING by Elizabeth Goddard

On February 18, 2025 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review4 Comments

ABOUT THE BOOK

Product Details

ISBN-13:9780800746148

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:02/18/2025

Series:Hidden Bay , #1

Pages:352

Synopsis

Haunted by a half-forgotten past, former army photographer Remi Grant is working at an isolated storm-watching lodge on the rocky Washington coast when she receives a mysterious puzzle piece. The piece may be the catalyst to unlock a disturbing incident she struggles to remember—the event that sent her into hiding. But with heavy storms rolling in, she must focus on the present, not get caught up in the past.

When a mysterious man at the lodge saves her life—more than once—Remi becomes suspicious and confronts him. After a catastrophic event in his own life, former military pilot Hawk Beckett is trying to get some perspective at the suggestion of his former commanding officer. Faced with the fiercest storm to hit the coast in a decade, Remi and Hawk are forced into survival mode.

But they’re not alone at the lodge. Someone doesn’t want Remi to remember what happened—and they will stop at nothing to see her dead.

MY THOUGHTS

The setting of a stormy coast in Washington state is perfect for the suspense that ramps up constantly in this book, even as the intensity of the storm increases. Remi Grant has lost a significant part of her memory and has sought refuge in a lodge on the coast, helping to manage the lodge while she tries to recover from amnesia. When she realizes that someone wants her to remember what happened on that army helicopter, she also starts to face danger from an unknown assailant. Hawk Beckett is staying at the lodge while he recovers from his own mishap in a helicopter and becomes Remi’s rescuer from several life-threatening situations. Together, the two of them set out to determine what has made Remi a threat to unknown powers and how they can neutralize that threat. The pace of this book is as fast as the powerful storm in the story and the characters are realistically portrayed and dynamic. I particularly enjoyed the research that the author included about the possible source of the villains and why they were coming after Remi. These details enriched the story with authenticity and added to the immersive drama. There are so many head-spinning twists and well-placed red herrings that I was thrilled to read a book that I could not guess what would happen next. The author is known for her riveting suspense and this heart-in-your-throat book did not disappoint. The romance is woven well into the story, but the main thrust of the book is the gripping suspense and the escalating tension that kept me completely engrossed by the story from beginning to end.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Goddard is the PW, ECPA, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of over sixty novels, including the Missing in Alaska and Rocky Mountain Courage series. Her books have sold more than 1.5 million copies. She is a Christy Award, Carol Award and two-time Reader’s Choice Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier Award and HOLT Medallion finalist. When she’s not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry. For more information about her books, visit her website at http://elizabethgoddard.com

Purchase Links

Baker Book House: https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/598766

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4hHBtfc

CBD: https://tinyurl.com/StormWarningCBD

B&N: https://tinyurl.com/StormWarningBN

BAM: https://tinyurl.com/StormWarningBAM

Powell’s : bit.ly/3WcFI9g

Audible: adbl.co/427nxFT

Apple Books: apple.co/40qNBdN

Note: I highly recommend this new book in a brand new series by Elizabeth Goddard. She is a master of romantic suspense and writes compelling novels.

Review: NOTHING EVER HAPPENS HERE by Seraphina Nova Glass

On February 12, 2025 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Promo, Book ReviewLeave a comment

About the Book

Nothing Ever Happens Here

By Seraphina Nova Glass

On Sale: February 11, 2025

ISBN: 9781525831591

Graydon House Paperback

Price: $18.99

About the Book:

“A charming cast of characters, a twisty mystery, and a diabolical killer make Nothing Ever Happens Here impossible to put down. A riveting page-turner with a sly sense of humor.” —Robyn Harding, internationally bestselling author of The Haters

Nothing ever happens in small towns…

When Shelby Dawson survives a harrowing attack that should have left her dead, she tries to move past it—for herself, and for her family. Fifteen months later, with the help of her best friend, Mackenzie, she finally feels safe again in the snowy Minnesota town she calls home. But when an anonymous note appears on her windshield bearing the same threats her attacker made, Shelby realizes that her nightmare has only just begun.

As new evidence surfaces, and a group of well-meaning senior citizens accidentally makes the case go viral online, the situation quickly goes from bad to worse. And with suspicious accidents targeting those closest to her happening all over town, Shelby can’t shake the feeling that she’s being watched. Fighting to stay one step ahead of disaster, she finds herself asking the question on everyone’s lips: Who attacked her that night?

But Shelby isn’t the only one with questions. Mackenzie’s husband, Leo, vanished without a trace on that terrible night, and over a year later, no one knows why. Until a deep dive into his finances reveals a history of debts, mismanaged funds, and hidden accounts—one of which is still active. Their suspicion that Leo is still alive only complicates things further, though, and when another person connected to Shelby goes missing, she’s caught in a race against time before her attacker becomes a killer.

My Thoughts

This novel is like a roller coaster ride going around curves and downhill the entire time. The twists just keep coming and kept me guessing as a small town is faced with disappearances, money laundering and even a possible murder. Two friends, Mackenzie and Shelby, both face unimaginable crises. Mack’s husband is missing and Shelby is attacked the same night that Leo disappears. There are so many creative and original page-turning and head-spinning twists that I cannot explain without giving away too much of the plot, but suffice it to say that the story was engaging, fast-moving and written with an edge that kept me reading. There is also the comic relief provided by the elderly residents of Oleander, a residence operated by Shelby. These residents are smart and protective of Shelby and want to help solve the crimes going on around town but end up getting themselves in trouble for their efforts. I really enjoyed the characterization because it was spot on fascinating and totally realistic. The elderly were quirky, Shelby was terrified and Mack was understandably frantic about her missing husband and her financial situation. Even the secondary characters like the Shelby’s children and husband Clay were believable and authentically portrayed. I enjoyed the story with its intense suspense sprinkled into the drama of the friends. With a complex plot and a mystery to try to solve, the author did a fantastic job of pulling me into the story and not letting to until the satisfying ending. This would be a great book to discuss in a book group since the characters are so varied and the plot is so memorable.
Disclaimer
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

Contemporary Fiction, General Fiction, Rated PG-16

About the Author

Seraphina Nova Glass is an assistant professor of instruction and playwright in residence at the University of Texas, Arlington, where she teaches film studies and playwriting. Her novel On A Quiet Street was nominated for an Edgar Award, was a New York Times Summer Read, an Amazon Bestseller and Editor’s Pick, and also featured in the Boston Globe and Bustle. Publishers Weekly has named her “a writer to watch.” She’s also an award-winning playwright and holds an MFA degree in dramatic writing from Smith College and a second MFA in directing from the University of Idaho. She is a proud dog mom and loves to travel the world with her husband. She resides in Dallas, Texas.

Social Links:

Author Website: https://www.seraphinanovaglass.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seraphinanovaglass/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8061717.Seraphina_Nova_Glass

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seraphinasnovaglass/

Purchase Links

HarperCollins: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/nothing-ever-happens-here-seraphina-nova-glass?variant=42521060835362

Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/s?k=9781525836725&tag=hcg-02-20

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/nothing-ever-happens-here-seraphina-nova-glass/1145581324?ean=9781525836725

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/everyone-knows-something-a-thriller-original-seraphina-nova-glass/21448569?ean=9781525836725

***With appreciation to HTP BOOKS for the invitation to participate in the Winter 2025 Blog Tour.***

Review of B IS FOR BONNET by Shelley Shepard Gray

On January 24, 2025 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book ReviewLeave a comment

About the Book

ISBN-13:9781496748881 Publisher:Kensington Publication date:01/21/2025 Series:Amish ABCs , #2 Pages:288

Raised by their divorced, lapsed-Amish father and English mother, siblings Jonny, Martin, Kelsey, and Beth can’t wait to reinvent their lives. The four don’t have much in common, but they long for the stable sense of family they felt when visiting their New Order grandparents, Josiah and Sylvia Schrock, in peaceful Holmes County, Ohio. And the Schrocks couldn’t be more surprised when the grandkids want to try living with them—and joining their faith . . .

When Jonny hears startling news about his health, he knows it’s past time to change his life. Quitting college, he unexpectedly finds the fulfilling job of his dreams. And he’s instantly smitten with cafe owner Treva Kramer, whose baked goods are as warm and delicious as her lively personality. But no matter how hard Jonny tries, he can’t seem to get past her secret sadness and distrust. Can he prove that his feelings for her are for real—and forever—in time?

A bad breakup left Treva heartbroken—and resolved to be independent without relying on anyone ever again. Exhausted from pouring everything she’s got into her cafe, she’s stunned by Jonny’s easygoing ways—and drawn to his optimistic nature. But when she thinks his real interest is in becoming Amish, she’s even more determined to stay focused—and keep her heart safe . . .

Soon, deep secrets and hidden family truths will test Jonny and Treva in unexpected ways. And with help from his warm-hearted grandparents, he and Treva might gain the happiness they secretly long for—with each other.

My Thoughts

Jonny Shrock is not sure that he wants to be Amish, but he is sure that he enjoys coffee, so every day he goes to Treva Hershberger’s coffee shop before he goes to the bicycle shop where he works. The attraction between the two is predictable, but so much fun to read. I was completely absorbed in the drama surrounding them, especially Treva’s former relationship that left her feeling unlovable and Jonny’s health issues that made him wonder how long a future he would have. I fell in love with the characters and the setting, but the plot kept me reading to find out how they would work out all of their problems together. My favorite character was a secondary one, Matt Schrock, Jonny’s dad, who is a man seeking his own second chance at love as well as reconciliation with his children and parents. I admired his determination and humility as well as his deep love for family. This story is heartwarming and a lovely romance that is a fast and enjoyable read.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley as a member of the author’s advanced review team. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

About the Author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray writes Amish and Inspirational romances for Simon & Schuster, and Kensington, Harlequin, and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing. With over a million books in print, and translated into more than a dozen languages, her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists.

Shelley has been featured in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations. Publishers Weekly calls her Walnut Creek series “A slow-burning, enjoyable romance… Embedded in this quaint story is a poignant message about the importance of community, compassion, and doing what’s right rather than what’s easy.”

Shelley has hosted several well-attended ‘Girlfriend Getaways’ for Amish reading fans. Her most recent Girlfriend Getaway, hosted with bestselling novelists Amy Clipston and Suzanne Woods Fisher in Sugarcreek, Ohio, was filmed by BuzzFeed and highlighted on NetFlix’s Follow This episode on the popularity of Amish fiction.

Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned her bachelor’s degree in English literature and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She now lives in southern Colorado near her grown children, walks her dachshunds, bakes too much, and writes full time.

To Connect with Shelley:

Facebook|Instagram| Pinterest| Twitter/X

Purchase Links for B Is For Bonnet:

amzn.to/4g14b8M (Amazon)

bit.ly/3E5Hh2T (Barnes and Noble)

bit.ly/3PI4r1B (Target)

bit.ly/40HQtDx (Christian Book)

bit.ly/3E4SBfH (Kensington Books)

bit.ly/3PQ3fJz (Books-a-Million)

apple.co/40GUGY4 (Apple Books)

bit.ly/42smQr7 (Kobo)

bit.ly/4g64HCC (Google Play Store)

bit.ly/4g7vnTa (Powell’s Books)

adbl.co/42tTOae (Audible)

I hope you will purchase and enjoy this sweet Amish romance! I am thoroughly enjoying getting to know the Schrock family and I think you will, too.

Review of SERIAL BURN by Lynette Eason

On January 22, 2025 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review2 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780800741211 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:01/21/2025. Series:Lake City Heroes , #3 Pages:320

She’s out for justice. But the arsonist she’s tracking is out for retribution.

Now the fire marshal of Lake City, Jesslyn McCormick is determined to find the person who started the fire that robbed her of her family when she was just seven years old. As the twentieth anniversary of the tragedy approaches, a string of fires—including at Jesslyn’s church—brings up all those old feelings and offers new evidence.

Because church fires are considered a hate crime, FBI Special Agent Nathan Carlisle is called in to work with local law enforcement. Nathan has his own past—one he’d prefer not to revisit. And focusing on helping Jesslyn track down the arsonist is a great distraction.

As both the case and the chemistry between Jesslyn and Nathan heat up, memories will come flooding in from the past to bump up against hopes for the future. And when Jesslyn comes face-to-face with her worst nightmare, she’ll have to confront her fears and rely on Nathan and her community of friends in order to survive.

My Thoughts

The latest book in the Lake City Heroes series is one that held me enthralled from the first page until the satisfying conclusion. I was sympathetic with Jesslyn McCormick and her intense desire to find the arsonist who killed her entire family when she was a young girl. As a fire marshal, Jesslyn is adamant about tracking down the arsonist who wreaked such havoc in her young life and is certain that the new fires being set around the town all relate to the perp who killed her family. Along with FBI special agent Nathan Carlisle, Jesslyn faces insurmountable odds and increasing danger as the fires keep getting more and more personal and the threat to her is obvious. Calling on their friends in Lake City to help keep Jesslyn safe, Nathan finds himself attracted to her but she is not ready for a relationship and avoids his advances. The romance progresses methodically, but the suspense continues to build as Jesslyn is getting closer to discovering the truth about her father’s past and the fire that led to the destruction of her family. I really enjoyed the head-spinning twists and the complex plot that included clues from the past woven into the current events. The suspense was compelling and the characters were dynamic and realistically flawed. With faith as a firm foundation and part of the story, this was an enjoyable and entertaining clean read with multiple layers and a fast-moving plot that was believable and satisfyingly puzzling, with clues that led me to keep guessing until the final reveal. Although this is the third book in a series, it can definitely be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell as part of the advance review team for the author. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Christian Fiction with Intense Suspense, Rated PG

About the Author

Lynette Eason is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty books. Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. She has won numerous awares including the Carol, the Selah, the Golden Scroll and more. Her novel, Her Stolen Past was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network. Lynette can be found online at www.lynetteeason.com and www.facebook.com/lynette.eason and @lynetteeason on Twitter.

Purchase Links:

bit.ly/3PnbtsI (Baker Book House)

bit.ly/4h3A1T8 (Barnes and Noble)

amzn.to/4gVR2iN (Amazon)

bit.ly/3DIQbTE (Target)

bit.ly/4j62t8L (Christian Book)

apple.co/406r7O9 (Apple Books)

bit.ly/4gY0zFt (Books-a-Million)

bit.ly/40lMfRR (Kobo)

bit.ly/4fMQkD0 (Powell’s)

bit.ly/4j5ouo8 (Google Play Store)

https://adbl.co/4a2p3ek (Audible)

It is my sincere wish that you all enjoy this book as much as I did! Lynette is a talented author who uses faith as the firm foundation for all of her novels.

JustRead Takeover and Review Tour: THE NEW LONELINESS by Cindi McMenamin

On January 10, 2025 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Review, JustRead Publicity Tour3 Comments

Welcome to the T akeover + Review Blitz for The New Loneliness by Cindi McMenamin hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours

About the Book

Title: The New Loneliness
Author: Cindi McMenamin
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Genre: Christian Personal Growth

You Can Overcome Your Feelings of Aloneness
In our age of increased social isolation and growing
reliance on technology, genuine connection can feel
more difficult than ever. But what if community and
closeness are nearer than you thought?

The New Loneliness is about experiencing the
authentic relationships God created you for by
identifying and overcoming today’s biggest relational
obstacles. Cindi McMenamin explores how our
current cultural environment and dependence on
electronic devices have hindered our ability to
connect, and she offers uplifting guidance, biblical
insights, and encouraging action steps to help you

● release feelings of inadequacy and shame by realigning with how the Lord sees you and understanding His purpose for you

● take confident steps toward nourishing healthy, in-person relationships by learning to slow down and operate from a secure attachment to God

● thrive within new friendships and community with practical guidance for making life more meaningful and preferring faces over screens

God did not create us to live in isolation. Journey with the Lord from aloneness to abundance, and flourish as you deepen your relationships with God and others.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

My Thoughts

This book is a practical guide as well as a devotional for women who are suffering through loneliness. I was particularly drawn to the scriptures at the end of each chapter which lead the reader to be reflective and honest as well as to draw the reader closer to God. There are also challenges at the end of each chapter that encourage the readers to dig deeper and think harder. This book is a good resource for those who are dealing with loneliness as well as anyone who wants to minister to those suffering from the new loneliness caused by social isolation in today’s world. The topic is compelling, relevant and a welcome breath of fresh air for those who deny that loneliness is even possible in today’s high tech, connected all the time world.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

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About the Author

Cindi McMenamin is an award-winning writer and national speaker who has ministered to women for nearly 40 years. She is the author of 17 books, including When Women Walk Alone (more than 160,000 copies sold) and When a Woman Overcomes Life’s Hurts. As a Bible teacher, her passion is to help women strengthen their walk with God and their relationships.

Connect with Cindi by visiting StrengthForTheSoul.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

1) winner will receive a copy of The New Loneliness, Beholding and Becoming by Ruth Chou Simons, Well Lived by Sally Clarkson, and a $50 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight January 8, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on
January 15, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Blog Tour: LINE OF FIRE by Taylor S. Newport

On December 18, 2024 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Review, JustRead Publicity Tour8 Comments

Welcome to the Blog T our for Line of Fire by Taylor S. Newport, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Line of Fire
Series: Dauntless Defenders #1
Author: Taylor S Newport
Publisher: Independently Published
Release Date: November 7, 2024
Genre: Christian Action Thriller

The enemy is relentless, but they made one fatal
mistake: they underestimated him. Australian mercenary Tyler Reid, known as “The Ghost of OZ”, has a talent for evading detection, a skill that has caught the eye of multiple government agencies. When a shadowy group targets a CIA
asset and her revolutionary drug ND1, the Deputy
Director calls in Tyler. Eager for action, Tyler takes
the job. He soon realizes that the enemy is not only
after the drug, but also out for his blood. Then the
mission goes south, and he is forced to seek an
unlikely ally.

For covert foreign operative Alexandra Romanova,
freedom is a distant dream. Escaping one prison
only led her to a more dangerous one. Her deadly skills are at her boss’s disposal, but she’ll use them only to escape. Her final chance hinges on retrieving ND1, but the elusive Ghost of Oz complicates things. Tyler Reid isn’t an easy mark, and the better she gets to know him, the more she questions the mission she’s tasked with. Soon she faces a dire choice: kill a man she is convinced is good, or pay with her own life.

As Tyler and Alex venture beyond their orders, the line between enemy and ally blurs. On the edge of failure, trust becomes a dangerous gamble with every decision dragging them deeper into the line of fire. As enemies close in and alliances shift, they are ensnared in a ruthless battle where survival depends on split-second choices. In this high-stakes fight, time is running out, and the margin for error is zero.

Line of Fire is the first book in the Christian thriller series Dauntless Defenders. It is NOT a standalone novel.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | From the Author | Amazon | BookBub

My Thoughts

This novel offers intrigue that blasts out of its pages and action that is non-stop. I was absolutely mesmerized by this book! The action and drama went from intense to explosive as Tyler Reid tries to forget his past a d safeguard those in danger from a rogue CIA agency. I was reminded again and again of Jack Reacher, James Bond and Mission Impossible. Tyler’s bravery is exemplary and his past failures keep him motivated to succeed in finding a missing daughter and destroying the rogue agency. This is a brilliantly written spy novel, combined with military tactics and what can only be described as heroic actions. The pages flew by as I raced to the end. I was completely invested in the lives of the dynamic and interests holding characters. I kept thinking that the suspense and death tally couldn’t climb much higher, but the author continued to surprise me with an amazing finesse in storytelling and in creating believable and vulnerable characters. This is a story of good versus evil in which evil seems to be winning. I am already looking forward with breathe holding anticipation to the next novel in the series!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from Kindle Unlimited. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

This debut novel is a Christian Action Thriller with some intense scenes as well as violence. I would rate it for mature readers.

About the Author

Taylor S Newport is an up and coming Christian author. Four years of research has brought her to release her first high-octane novel to the world. In 2024, she placed as a Finalist in the ACFW Genesis Contest. Currently, she travels the United States with her family and GSD mix, Bella,
probably writing her next novel.

Connect with Taylor by visiting taylorsnewport.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive an ebook copy of Line of Fire and a $15 Amazon Gift Card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 16, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 23, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void
where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tour: ONCE UPON A HORSE by Helena Smrcek

On December 11, 2024December 11, 2024 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Promo, Book Review2 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Once Upon a Horse by Helena Smrcek, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Once Upon a Horse
Series: The Vets of Heavenbrooke County #1
Author: Helena Smrcek
Publisher: EverWind Press
Release Date: November 15, 2024
Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

In the charming Heavenbrooke county, where country
life meets big-city dreams, 28-year-old accountant
Stella Barkley is about to discover that sometimes love
arrives when you least expect it.

After a flat tire leaves her stranded on the side of the
road, a handsome stranger comes to her rescue—Dr.
Jason Alba, a dedicated veterinarian with a heart as
big as his ambitions. Their initial encounter sparks an
undeniable connection, aided by Stella’s spirited Jack
Russell T errier, Milkbone, who takes an immediate
liking to Jason thanks to his pocket full of treats.

As their paths intertwine, Stella finds herself drawn to
Jason, despite their differing views on farm life and
future aspirations. Their budding romance takes
unexpected turns, especially when a mysterious missing horse from a local breeder, Enrique Rodriguez, complicates matters.

When Thanksgiving arrives, Jason becomes Stella’s unexpected hero, saving her from a culinary disaster and charming her city friends with his warm spirit. But just as their relationship begins to flourish, a crisis emerges in the barn: the missing mare, Starling, is discovered in distress, leading Jason to perform a life-saving surgery that brings them even closer.

However, secrets and misunderstandings threaten to tear them apart. Stella’s desperate attempt to protect a champion mare sends her on a collision course with both Jason and Enrique, forcing her to confront her choices and the future she thought she wanted.

When Stella realizes that her life in Heavenbrooke may be over, she pens a heartfelt goodbye letter to Jason, leaving it at the church where their story began. Alone on Christmas morning, she grapples with loneliness and regret, only to be surprised by the appearance of the man who stole her heart.

Can a simple letter and the magic of Christmas lead them to a second chance? Will they find a way to bridge the divide between city and country, love and loyalty?

Join Stella and Jason on a heartfelt journey of love, loss, and the enduring power of second chances in Once Upon a Horse. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, this tale of unexpected connections and the bonds we forge will leave you believing in the wonder of love.

My Thoughts

This is a charming and captivating retelling of fairy tales with happy endings and a horse that plays a big role in the romance. Stella is an accountant who has moved to the small village of Heavenbrook to get back to the roots of her grandparents who have passed away. She works at the local country store, has a darling dog named Milkbone and is basically a lonely young woman just trying to survive. Enter Prince Charming in the form of a local vet named Dr. Jason Alba. He wins Stella’s attention and affection right away by giving Milkbone a treat each time he sees him. The two seem destined for romance until the big secret that Stella does not want to tell Jason comes out during her Thanksgiving dinner celebration. Sparks fly, the explosive kind, not the romantic ones, and the two separate, both disillusioned with love and each other. This is a story that is fast-paced, easy to read and absolutely well told with characters that made me want to either cheer for them or slap them, depending on their current actions in the tale. With realism mixed with romance and a little magic of well-loved fairy tales, this book is an enchanting clean read that I enjoyed from beginning to end.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Just Read Blog Tour for the purpose of review. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

Also Available

About the Author

Helena Smrcek is an award-winning author, screenwriter, public speaker and writing coach. From her romantic suspense series to women’s fiction, contemporary romance, and humor, and her latest favorite, dual timeline historicals—like a box of chocolate truffles—she loves them all.
With a passion for storytelling sparked by her grandparents, Helena Smrcek weaves heartfelt tales that explore themes of faith, love, and redemption.

Connect with Helena by visiting helenasmrcek.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of all 3 books in the Alicia Yu FBI series plus Once Upon a Horse.

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 9, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 16, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Winner location
limited to where Amazon will ship. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway.

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!