Review of ONE WRONG MOVE by Dani Pettrey

On February 19, 2024February 18, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780764238482

Publication date:02/06/2024

Pages:400

Christian O’Brady was pulled into a life of crime at a young age by his con artist parents. Now making amends for his corrupt past, he has become one of the country’s foremost security experts. When a string of Southwestern art heists targets one of the galleries Christian secured, he is paired up with a gifted insurance investigator who has her own checkered past.

Andi Forester was a brilliant FBI forensic analyst until her career was destroyed. She now puts those skills to work investigating insurance fraud, and this latest high-stakes case will test her gift to the limit. Drawn deep into a dangerous game with an opponent bent on revenge, Christian and Andi are in a race against the clock to catch him, but the perpetrator’s game is far from finished, and one wrong move could be the death of them both.

My Thoughts

This new series by Dani Pettrey begins with this book filled with heart-pounding suspense and developing romance. Two couples are introduced who are both tasked with solving two different crimes and also feeling attraction for one another. Cristian and Andi are the main characters and are working together to solve several high-value art heists. With their lives in danger and the attraction between the two of them beginning to sizzle, their story was engaging and totally mind-blowing at times. The second of the dual storylines deals with Harper and Deckard who are looking into the case of Andi’s being accused of mishandling evidence and getting kicked out of the FBI. Their story was just as compelling and also fraught with danger for the two who have chemistry that they both try to deny. The romance is realistic, the danger to the investigators produces non-stop action and characters that are dynamic and relatable. I really enjoyed the setting in New Mexico and all of the descriptions that let me imagine myself there, enjoying the beautiful patio in Christian’s house and the mountains that surround it. I loved this book and think it may be one of the best from the author, with details that made the story engrossing and research as well as faith that are seamlessly woven into the story. This is a book not to be missed by fans of romantic suspense, in a new place with new characrters and danger coming from unexpected places. I enjoyed the glimpses at evil that were shown at times as well as the clues and red herrings. Everything about this novel makes it the quintessential romantic suspense with a firm faith foundation and lots of information about the new characters in Jeopardy Falls. I am already looking forward to the new book in the series; I am hooked on Jeopardy Falls and the investigators there.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House. 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.”

Intense suspense, rated PG. Christian Fiction

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Purchase Links:

Review of FATAL WITNESS by Patricia Bradley

On February 17, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

Author: Patricia Bradley
Series: The Pearl River Series, Book 2
Genres: Romance, Suspense
Tag: #christiansuspense. Publisher: Revell
ASIN: B0C9RNHMY9
ISBN: 9780800741631 Pages: 385

As a child, artist and potter Dani Bennett witnessed the brutal murder of her parents. With no memory of the incident or her true identity, she was forced to take on a new name and a new life, hidden away in Montana for the past 25 years.

Mae Richmond has spent the same stretch of time searching for her granddaughter, who went missing the night her daughter and son-in-law were murdered. Convinced the woman she saw in a pottery magazine feature is the woman she’s been searching for, she enlists the help of K-9 officer Mark Lassiter of Pearl Springs, Tennessee, who tracks Dani down.

Skeptical but curious, Dani sets out on a journey to uncover the secrets of her past and reclaim her true identity. But someone close to her is determined to keep the truth of what happened all those years ago hidden.

My Thoughts

This book is amazing as it follows the story of Dani Bennett whose parents were murdered when she was just a young child. Ripped away from her familiar surroundings by her Uncle Keith, she has been working as an artist in the badlands of Montana when she begins to get curious about her partial memories that keep surfacing. Returning to the little town of Pearl Springs, TN, Dani finds her grandmother and a protector named Mark Lassiter. She didn’t even know she needed protection until multiple attempts are made on her life. This book has riveting suspense and characters who are relatable with complicated personalities. This well-crafted story is totally addictive, with its non-stop action and its sensitive exploration of trauma as well as the way Dani’s lost memory is teasingly revealed slowly. I loved the descriptions of the settings, especially in Tennessee where the author made it easy for me to picture the winding roads and the isolation of some of the homes. With intricate plot threads that the author draws seamlessly together into one well written story, this book is one filled with depth and is brilliant in the way the multiple layers come together in the end. My favorite characters were the Puli dog that Dani owns who is well trained to protect her and Mark’s dog Gem who is nothing short of remarkable in his abilities and intuitiveness. This is a cleverly written page turner with a fast pace, tight plot and good chemistry between the characters. Fans of romantic suspense will love this book as it is one I could not put down!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell 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.”

Clean Christian Fiction with some intense suspense; Rated PG

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

USA Today best-selling author, **Patricia Bradley** is the recipient numerous awards, including an Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award in suspense, a Selah winner, was a Carol and a Daphne du Maurier finalist. Her romantic suspense novels include the Logan Point series, the Memphis Cold Case Novels, and the Natchez Trace Park Rangers. She is now hard at work on the second book in her new Pearl River series set in the Cumberland Plateau area above Chattanooga. The first book in the series, Counter Attack will release in mid-2023.

She has conducted writing workshops for American Christian Fiction Writers, the Mid-South Christian Writer’s Conference, the KenTen and Scrivener retreats (where she was the keynote), the Memphis American Christian Fiction Writer group, and the Bartlett Christian Writers group.
She and her two cats call Northeast Mississippi home–the South is also where she sets most of her books, and when she has time, she likes to throw mud on a wheel and see what happens.
For more information about Ms. Bradley and her books, check out her website at https://ptbradley.com/meet-patricia/

PURCHASE LINKS:

COUNTER ATTACK, PEARL RIVER BOOK 1

(The first book in the series is also available. Both may be read as standalones.)

Author: Patricia Bradley
Series: The Pearl River Series, Book 1
Genres: Mystery, Romance
Tag: Recommended Books
ASIN: 0800741625
ISBN: 9780800741624

USA Today bestselling and award-winning author Patricia Bradley begins a new series set in the Cumberland Plateau around Chattanooga. A serial killer is stalking women in Pearl Springs, Tennessee, leaving chess clues at the scene of the murders.

With continued appreciation to Revell for this blogger program that gives me access to review such wonderful fiction!

Review of THE SUMMER BOOK CLUB by Susan Mallery

On February 14, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

This summer, three friends find the courage to step into the next chapter of their lives…

The rules of summer book club are simple:

No sad books
No pressure
Yessssss, wine!

Besties Laurel and Paris are excited to welcome Cassie to the group. This year, the book club is all about fill-your-heart reads, an escape from the chaos of the everyday—running a business, raising a family, juggling a hundred to-dos. Even the dog is demanding (but the bestest boy).

Since Laurel’s divorce, she feels like the Worst Mom Ever. Her skepticism of men may have scarred her vulnerable daughters. Cassie has an unfortunate habit of falling for ridiculous man-boys who dump her once she fixes them. Paris knows good men exist. She’s still reeling after chasing off the only one brave enough—and foolish enough—to marry her.

Inspired by the heroines who risk everything for fulfillment, Laurel, Paris and Cassie begin to take chances—big chances—in life, in love. Facing an unwritten chapter can be terrifying. But it can be exhilarating, too, if only they can find the courage to change.

Product Details

ISBN-13:9781335448668

Publisher:Harlequin

Publication date:02/13/2024

Pages:416

My Thoughts

Ahhh! That is the sigh of total happiness and contentment I feel after finishing a new Susan Mallery book. This novel is friendships, relationships with men and life lessons all rolled into a very satisfying bundle. The story of three women with different challenges in their lives dovetails together beautifully under the hand of an author who knows her craft well and writes with humor and heart. The weaving together of their lives was a wonderful tapestry, and quite a work to behold when it was all finished at the end. The stories of Cassie, a homesick young woman from Maine, Laurel, a divorced single mom, and Paris, a woman who doesn’t trust her own emotional stability, are all focused in the idyllic setting of a small town in California named Los Lobos. Cassie has to learn how to live on her own without feeling as though she is disappointing her family or not needed. Laurel has to understand that she is lovable and not everyone runs away, and Paris has to learn the lesson that one can change in life and be better for it. I loved the story and the fast pace as the POV seamlessly switched between the three main characters. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each one, complete with realistic flaws and real-life problems. Laurel’s children were portrayed in such a way that my heart went out to them and their dilemma with loving an absentee father. I enjoyed getting to know the secondary characters, too, and think that each one added to the depth of the story. This is one of my favorite books by the very talented Susan Mallery because of its exploration of difficult topics like facing your fears and accepting changes. I am sorry to finish the story of these three brave woman who face obstacles and have to work hard to overcome them and be their best selves. Wonderful story! Great romance! Fantastic life lessons, too! This book is the real deal, a book that gave me all of the right feels and kept me reading until I finished it. Then I sighed because I didn’t want it to end!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing it. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. 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

**SUSAN MALLERY** is the #1 *New York Times* bestselling author of novels about the relationships that define women’s lives—family, friendship, romance. *Library Journal* says, “Mallery is the master of blending emotionally believable characters in realistic situations,” and readers seem to agree—40 million copies of her books have sold worldwide. Her warm, humorous stories make the world a happier place to live.
Susan grew up in California and now lives in Seattle with her husband. She’s passionate about animal welfare, especially that of the ragdoll cat and adorable poodle who think of her as mom.

Purchase Links:

Review of THE WOMEN by Kristin Hannah

On February 9, 2024February 9, 2024 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9781250178633

Publisher:St. Martin’s Publishing Group

Publication date:02/06/2024

Pages:480

Women can be heroes. When twenty-year-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. Raised in the sun-drenched, idyllic world of Southern California and sheltered by her conservative parents, she has always prided herself on doing the right thing. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path.

As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is over-whelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. Each day is a gamble of life and death, hope and betrayal; friendships run deep and can be shattered in an instant. In war, she meets—and becomes one of—the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost.

But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends. The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam.

The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, The Women is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will come to define an era.

My Thoughts

I literally could not put this book down and then when I forced myself to go to bed, scenes from the book continued to run through my mind. This is a realistically told and emotional novel about the Vietnam War era and how the lives of people were changed because of their involvement in the war, specifically the lives of the women who volunteered to serve. Frankie McGrath is a sympathetic character who wants nothing more than her beloved father’s approval, so when she volunteers to be a nurse in the war zone, she had no idea what she was getting into. Young, innocent and patriotic, Frankie quickly has her eyes opened to the brutality of war and I got to travel back in time to when my friends were being drafted or volunteering and the news reports that were given nightly about how we were “winning the war.” The research in the book is impeccable, transporting my mind completely to that troubled time and the years afterwards when the veterans of the war were ridiculed rather than welcomed. I thoroughly enjoyed the point of view of Frankie and all she suffered as a result of her choice and also how she was ultimately able to overcome and move on in her life. The characters were all dynamic and realistically flawed. The plot moved along quickly, keeping pace with the action on the front lines. This is a remarkable story that needs to be read and is written in such a brilliant way that it held my attention and caused me to cry, cheer and get outraged, sometimes all within the same chapter. With a tight plot and the signature style of a master of historical fiction, this book deserves many kudos for embracing a topic that is thought-provoking and complex. I highly recommend this book for all who want to know what the late 60’s and 70’s were like and how the women who served were treated, both on the battlefield and afterwards. There is so much to love about this book, but I must warn readers that it can be disturbing with the realistic details of war and the wounded and dying. I used to say that my all-time favorite book was “Gone with the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell. I have a new favorite, more timely and suited for my generation. Captivating, insightful and well-crafted, this is one that I definitely want to own and read again. An epic novel worth reading and remembering!
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 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

Rated M for mature audiences. This book deals with war, violence and has some graphic descriptions of the events in Vietnam. It also has sexual scenes and some harsh language.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

**Kristin Hannah** is the award-winning and bestselling author of more than 20 novels including the international blockbuster, *TheNightingale*, which was named Goodreads Best Historical fiction novel for 2015 and won the coveted People’s Choice award for best fiction in the same year. Additionally, it was a selection of the Reese Witherspoon Book Club in 2023. It was named a Best Book of the Year by Amazon, iTunes, Buzzfeed, the *Wall Street Journal*, *Paste*, and *The Week*. In 2018, *The Great Alone* became an instant *New York Times* #1 bestseller and was named the Best Historical Novel of the Year by Goodreads.
*The Four Winds* was published in February of 2021 and immediately hit #1 on the *New York Times*, *Wall Street Journal*, *USA Today*, and Indie bookstores’ bestseller lists. Additionally, it was selected as a book club pick by the both Today Show and the Book Of the Month club, which named it the best book of 2021.
*The Nightingale* is currently in production at Tri Star, with Dakota and Elle Fanning set to star. Tri Star has also optioned *The Great Alone*and it is in development. *Firefly Lane*, her beloved novel about two best friends, was the #1 Netflix series around the world, in the week it came out. The popular tv show stars Katherine Heigl and Sarah Chalke and Season Two is currently set to conclude the series on April 27, 2023.
A former attorney, Kristin lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Purchase Links:

Review of THE DIVINE PROVERB OF STREUSEL by Sara Brunsvold

On February 2, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780800742997

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:01/16/2024

Pages:336

Shaken by her parents’ divorce and discouraged by the growing chasm between herself and her serious boyfriend, Nikki Werner seeks solace at her uncle’s farm in a small Missouri hamlet. She’ll spend the summer there, picking up the pieces of her shattered present so she can plan a better future. But what awaits her at the ancestral farm is a past she barely knows.

Among her late grandmother’s belongings, Nikki finds an old notebook filled with handwritten German recipes and wise sayings pulled from the book of Proverbs. With each recipe she makes, she invites locals to the family table to hear their stories about the town’s history, her ancestors—and her estranged father.

What started as a cathartic way to connect to her heritage soon becomes the means through which she learns how the women before her endured—with the help of their cooking prowess. Nikki realizes how delicious streusel with a healthy dollop of faith can serve as a guide to heal wounds of the past.

My Thoughts

This book is like a primer on establishing relationships with the past and improving current ones. Nikki Werner flees to her Uncle Wes’s property in rural Missouri when her father’s leaving her mom breaks her heart, followed by a her boyfriend not being someone she can count on right now. At Uncle Wes’s farm, Nikki finds an old notebook that belonged to her grandmother and that contains handwritten recipes along with proverbs. As Nikki lovingly prepares the old recipes, she learns to put heart into her cooking as she thinks about all of the challenges in life that she is now facing. She meets new people, makes new friends and gets insight into what she is facing and how to face it. During the reading of this book, I was challenged to think about my own past and its effect on my present and apply God’s truth to what has happened and is happening. This is a book that teaches lessons about redemption, forgiveness, looking for the path God wants for you and not accepting less than God’s peace and His best in your life. I loved all of the characters, especially Aunt Emma who dispensed wisdom as well as unconditional love. The plot was well-paced and totally engrossing as Nikki invites one person after another and learns a lot about her past from each of them, all while pondering in her mind about what to do about her father and her boyfriend. The recipes are fascinating, too, making me want to try a few of them like the pancakes and the streusel. I am impressed with the author’s story within a story and the depth of her research. All in all, this is a wonderful book with a story clamoring to be read again and again and enjoyed by book clubs as they discuss the recipes, the importance of connection to the past and forgiving even when it’s hard.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell, the publisher. 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 Advertisng.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

**Sara Brunsvold** creates stories that speak hope, truth, and life. Influenced by humble women of God who find His fingerprints in the everyday, she does the same in her life and her storytelling. Sara’s recognitions include the 2020 ACFW Genesis Award for Contemporary Fiction. She lives with her family in Kansas City, where she can often be spotted writing at a park or library.

Awards
Christy Award, First Novel Category, 2023
ACFW Carol Award, Debut Author Category, 2023
ACFW Genesis Contest Winner, Contemporary Category, 2020
ACFW Genesis Contest Semi-Finalist, Contemporary Category, 2018
Mattie Dykes Creative Writing Award – Fiction, 2000

For more information about the author and her books, please go to her website at https://sarabrunsvold.com/

Purchase Links:

Just Read Publicity Tour: PAGES OF PROMISE by Jessica Ashley

On February 2, 2024February 2, 2024 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Promo, Book Review6 Comments

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Pages of Promise by Jessica Ashley, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Pages of Promise
Series: Coastal Hope #1
Author: Jessica Ashley
Publisher: B.A.D. Publishing, LLC
Release Date: February 5, 2024
Genre: Christian/Clean Romantic Suspense

When Eliza’s life is threatened, she turns to a handsome veteran for help.
I left everything I’d ever known behind. And that decision may cost me my life.
The moving truck hadn’t even been unpacked when my fresh start went up in flames.
A frightening letter left in my mailbox and signed Always Yours sends me running to the only man in town who can help me.
Driven by his protective nature and a mission he believes comes from God, ex-Army Ranger Lance Knight agrees, despite the fact that I’ve made it no
secret I want nothing to do with him–or anyone for that matter.

The longer we’re together, the more I begin to realize that Lance is more than I gave him credit for. Something that troubles me nearly as much as the fact that an unknown man seems to have already claimed me as his.
Trouble is, my admirer has a jealous side, and it’s not long before Lance is pulled into the crosshairs right alongside me…
Get your copy now and be ready to stay up all night!
Pages of Promise is a swoon-worthy, faith-based, suspenseful romance between a jaded woman and the hero determined to protect not just her body…but her heart.

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

My Thoughts

This is Christian fiction at its best with faith woven throughout the story. The main characters are Lance Knight, the owner of a protection and security agency and Eliza who needs protection in the worst way. Eliza has fled to Hope Springs after divorcing her abusive and philandering husband Erik and is planning on a completely fresh start on the east coast. Unfortunately, she has a stalker who is determined to terrorize her and get rid of anyone who stands in the way of his having her for his own. The pace is fast with action that doesn’t let up. There are a few clues as to the identity of the stalker but not enough to spoil the story, and I was not able to guess the truth and its ramifications for Eliza and Lance. The characters are well-rounded, with flaws that make them more relatable. All of the town’s characters are lovable and make the small town a place that seems hospitable and welcoming, even to a total stranger like Eliza. I enjoyed how the town came together to help Eliza and support her when she needed it. The secondary characters like Doc were important to the tale and the setting made the story seem more realistic, adding a well described and inviting location in the midst of the danger that was ever present. This is the first book I have read by this author and I enjoyed it so much that I plan to read the other books in the series when they are released. This book can be read and thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone as that is how I read it.

Disclaimer

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Just Read. 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

After spending seven years in the Army, Jessica Ashley set out to write novels that would transport readers to new worlds and help them escape reality with messages of underdogs and swoon-worthy romance. After eight years of a successful writing career underneath two pen names, she felt her faith pulling her in a new direction.
Now, she writes sweet romance with messages of faith, hope, and the importance of trusting our hearts and the word of God. Her debut novel, Pages of Promise, is set to release in February 2024.

She resides in Texas with her husband of twelve years, their three kids, a flock of chickens, an orange cat who thinks he runs the house, and three dogs who don’t realize just how big they are.
Connect with Jessica by visiting authorjessicaashley.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight January 29, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on February 5, 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.

_____________________________________________________________________________

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

Review of THE TANGLED TALE OF THE WOOLGATHERING CASTOFFS by Sharon J. Mondragón

On January 26, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780825448201

Publisher:Kregel Publications

Publication date:01/23/2024

Pages:288

SYNOPSIS

A humorous, heartwarming tale of love, loss, and the power of community
Fair Meadows Retirement Community might as well be a country club for most of the retirees enjoying the pool, golf course, and book clubs. But for the caregivers whose family members reside upstairs in the special Memory Care Unit, vacation is over.
Comforting these caregivers is exactly why the Woolgatherers group has formed. They make prayer shawls to support those affected by the heartbreaking reality of not being recognized by a loved one-people like Sam Talbot, who has been barely existing since his wife moved into Memory Care. He finds that his life has lost all color and meaning without her.
That’s something the Woolgatherers can’t bear to see. Flirtatious Jenny Alderman, cranky crocheter Edna O’Brian, kind Rose Harker, and the rest of the prayer shawl group weave him into the circle. Sam has no idea how he got tangled up with them, and he’s no good at knitting. But when one member talks him into taking up his wife’s old crochet hooks, he discovers that this one small gesture might just have the power to heal his life—or even save it.
Full of Sharon Mondragon’s characteristic humor and heart, this book wrestles with the loneliness of being the forgotten spouse of a dementia patient, moving past the fear that the spouses often face into the love and compassion that can make all the difference.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

My Thoughts

This novel is so much more than a great and entertaining story! It is a primer on how to really see people and how to touch the lives of others with prayer and prayer shawls. The plot is about the Woolgathering Castoffs who meet twice a week at their nursing home in order to knit or crochet their projects together. Each project is a prayer shawl for a person whose live has been affected by “Old-Timer’s Disease.” As the ladies and one gentleman gather together, they share their expertise with the craft and their life experiences with one another as well as with visitors who come to see their loved ones. The story was heartbreaking at times as some of the characters were rebuffed by their loved ones who had no memory of them at all. But is was also filled with hope as the group joined forces to help those feeling rejected and invisible. I enjoyed this book so much more than I thought possible since I had never read a book by this author before. This is an extraordinary look at the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s and the special love it takes to be committed to the person suffering from this disease. I enjoyed getting to know the characters, all of whom were portrayed realistically with flaws and many of whom needed to get in touch with God again. Although it is hard to choose just one, I think my favorite character was Edna, a woman who is a resident with a heart full of hurt who holds her wounds tightly tucked inside but who faithfully attends the meetings and teaches others to crochet. The plot moved along at the perfect pace for the story being told, one of redemption and God’s love as well as the love and forgiveness of others, but especially one of hope in what seems like hopeless circumstances. This novel rates as one of the best and most faith-filled books I have ever read and its simple truths and lovingkindness of the characters will long stay with me as a practice we could all exhibit more often. The author will be added to my list of “must read” authors as the lessons I learned from this book are priceless and the memories of the wonderful character development amazed me.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this boo 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.”

Christian Fiction, Highly Recommend for All Readers

PURCHASE LINKS:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Christian Book

More about the Series

This is the second book in the Purls and Prayers Series. The first book, if you like to read books in order, is pictured below along with the purchase link. Enjoy!

Review of THE MISSING WITNESS by Allison Brennan

On January 26, 2024 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Missing Witness : A Quinn & Costa Novel Allison Brennan
Series: A Quinn & Costa Thriller (#5)
On Sale Date: January 23, 2024 9780778369653
Hardcover
$30.00 USD
Fiction / Thrillers / Crime 416 pages

When a key witness goes missing, Quinn & Costa must find her before a killer silences her for good…
Detective Kara Quinn is back in Los Angeles to testify against a notorious human trafficker, finally moving past the case that upended her life. But when the accused is shot in broad daylight, the chaotic scene of the crime turns up few reliable bystanders. And one witness—a whistleblower who might be the key to everything—has disappeared.
After another person close to the case is killed, it’s clear that anyone who knows too much is in danger, and tracking down the witness becomes a matter of life-and-death. But as explosive secrets surface within the LAPD and FBI, Kara questions everything she thought she knew about the case, her colleagues and the life she left behind months ago.
Now with FBI special agent Matt Costa’s help, she must race to find the missing witness and get to the bottom of the avalanche of conspiracies that has rocked LA to its core…before it’s too late.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

**ALLISON BRENNAN** is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling and award-winning author of over forty novels, including The Sorority Murder. She lives in Arizona with her husband, five kids and assorted pets. The Missing Witness is the fifth thriller in the new Quinn & Costa series.
Social Links:
Author Website: https://www.allisonbrennan.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllisonBrennan
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Allison_Brennan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abwrites/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/52527.Allison_Brennan

My Thoughts

The impeccable and detailed research drew me into the story and the mesmerizing plot kept me there. The action was non-stop as the MRT returns to Kara Quinn’s old stomping grounds to finally get justice for Kara. They end up with more of a problem than they bargained for, with corruption rampant in city hall, the police department and the FBI. The plight of the homeless as presented by the author was heartbreaking and when she added to their sad situation with graft and the presence of drugs, it was made very realistic and created a compelling story. Kara thinks that she will be finally free of Chen and be able to return to LAPD but what she discovers about her city disturbs her deeply. Secrets have been kept from her from people she trusted and now she just wants to find the truth. Her team is there to support her and to help ferret out the dark and twisted truth of a city that has lost its moral compass as far as the homeless are concerned. With the murder of a DA and an FBI agent, the MRT has their hands full trying to follow the clues and find out who is responsible for the city’s corruption and the murders. This was a breathtakingly complex book, introducing new and relatable characters. I really liked getting to know FBI agent Sloan as well as computer geek Violet. Both were expertly crafted to fit into the story well and to add depth to a propulsive thriller. This is an incredibly powerful story with nail-biting suspense and explosive complications as Kara is suspected of the unthinkable and has to depend on her team’s support to find the truth. With a brilliantly written plot that unravels at just the right pace and characters that are intriguingly unique and dynamic, this book is a winner for me in every aspect. It hit just the right tone, with eye-opening details and an intense need to follow the clues and get the mysteries solved before someone else dies. Part thriller, part mystery and all edgy suspense, this is a book not to be missed by fans of Allison Brennan. Although it is part of a series, it can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone and I highly recommend this captivating and insightful novel.
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.”

PURCHASE LINKS:

The Poisoned Pen Bookstore

Bookshop

Books-a-Million

Link to an article by the author about the story:

Murder She Writes

Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA for the ARC of this engaging book! Loved it and hated for it to end!

Review of OUR SISTER’S GRAVE by B.R. Spangler

On January 19, 2024 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Review5 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-13:9781835255094

Publisher:Bookouture

Publication date:12/14/2023

Series:Detective Casey White , #10

Pages:230

Synopsis

As the sun rises over North Carolina’s Outer Banks, eight sorority sisters gather on the docks, excited to start their reunion weekend with a diving excursion. But when only seven of them return to the boat alive, Detective Casey White is the first person to investigate.

Confused as to why she’s been called to what appears to be a tragic accident, her heart stops when she notices fresh hand-shaped bruises on the victim’s ankles. Karol Witney was murdered. But with a crime scene and any evidence thirty feet underwater, Casey knows this will be her most challenging case yet.

Determined to find the killer, Casey and her fiancé Jericho dive to the shipwreck where Karol was last seen exploring. But just as Casey discovers a piece of shocking evidence on the ocean floor, Jericho is attacked. The killer is still out there, and they’re watching Casey’s every move.

As Jericho fights for his life, and another body washes up on the beach, Casey knows she has to dive again. Because she’ll do anything to catch the killer, even if it means using herself as bait…

My Thoughts

When Detective Casey White is called to the scene of what she thinks is a drowning, she is as surprised as anyone that the death of Karol Witney is not an accident. Determined to find her killer, even if it means risking her own life, Casey gets tech support from the new office employee as well as help from her colleague Tracy and her husband Jericho. The pace is fast, with more clues being given as well as red herrings and false trails. There is a lot of family drama, too, as Jericho is gravely injured in his desire to help Casey solve the case. I enjoyed getting to know the characters better. Although this is the tenth book in the series, it is only the second one that I have read and although I felt at times that I was missing some information that had been in previous books, I did not think that it took away from my thorough enjoyment of this one. The characters are dynamic and relatable, the plot is realistically portrayed and written in a way that drew me into the story methodically and relentlessly. Part police procedural and part mystery, this book is not to be missed by fans who enjoy good detectives who put it all on the line to solve the crime.
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.”

This is a gritty crime procedural, so I would rate it PG.

About the Author

B.R. Spangler is a USA TODAY Bestselling Author of Mysteries and Crime Thrillers.
A resident of Virginia with a wonderful family, including five cats, two birds and a lizard.

Social media:

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/BR_Spangler
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/authorbrianspangler/
Newsletter sign up: https://www.bookouture.com/br-spangler

Purchase Link:

Our Sister’s Grave

Blog Tour

Review of DOUBLE TAKE by Lynette Eason

On January 9, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780800741198

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:01/09/2024

Series:Lake City Heroes , #1

Pages:320

Detective James Cross has been honorably discharged from the Army Criminal Investigation Division due to wounds sustained when an IED blew up near him. Now with the Lake City Police Department, he’s rooming with this good buddy and partner, Cole, while he figures out his family dynamics.

Physician Assistant Lainie Jackson is eighteen months out from an attempted murder perpetrated by her ex, which ended when she managed to grab the weapon and shoot him. When he appears to have survived and is back to finish the job he started, Lainie insists it’s not possible. But someone keeps trying to kill her, and she keeps seeing his face.

Together, Lainie and James must work together to find out who, exactly, is after her and why he wants her dead. And failure is not an option.

My Thoughts

The first book in a new series by one of my favorite authors is always exciting for me, and this new book by Lynette Eason exceeded all of my expectations. With a fast pace and heart-stopping action, this book held me captive from beginning to end. The story of Lainie Jackson and her doubts about whether she is hallucinating or not made me really want to know what was going on her life. Although she is certain that Adam died, why does she keep seeing him at various places around the hospital? And if Adam is not stalking her, then who is determined to harm her? Lainie enlists the help of an old friend James Cross, currently a police detective who is ready to do whatever he needs to do to keep Lainie safe. The pace of this book is like a bullet train rocketing out of the station and it never lets up. The plot is compellingly realistic and terrifying at times. I enjoyed getting to know the people in Lake City and how they were so willing to help and support each other. All of the characters were dynamic, original and believable. This is an intriguing and intense book, with a clever edginess that kept me glued to the pages. The multi-layered story that includes PTSD and some other well-researched topics was complex, crackling with tension and so well crafted tht I had no idea how long past my bedtime I was reading every night. The chemistry between the characters gave the book emotional depth and the suspense along with the red herrings made this book unforgettable and unputdownable.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this bok from Revell 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 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”