Review of MALICIOUS INTENT by Lynn H. Blackburn

On March 9, 2022 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

This book is a prime example of what romantic suspense should be! It started with a fast introduction to the conflict and the plot rolled along quickly all the way to the end. Dr. Ivy Collins in a vulnerable and sympathetic character who runs a successful business but whose life is in danger from some unknown threat. Enter Gil Dixon, a U.S. Secret Service Agent, and her first love when they were teens. Gil is investigating one case and gets pulled into the threat against Ivy. He is determined to protect Ivy at any cost, even his own life. I have read the first book in the series, but this book can be read as a standalone. I do think that getting to know the characters who were introduced in the first book, however, quickly engaged me in this new story as former characters played a role in this book as well. This book was intriguing and intense, with the danger ramping up just at the pace of the story quickened too. With bombs, guns, kidnapping attempts and computer hijacking, this story has everything that a suspense junkie like me craves and it definitely fulfilled my desire to read a book that had me engrossed from beginning to end. The plot was just complicated and twisted enough that I was not able to figure out the bad guy until Gil did and the characters were so realistic that I found myself giving them advice. For example, “Seriously, Ivy, don’t go in there. Just don’t!” I loved this book and would give it five plus stars just for its entertainment value. Fans of clean romantic suspense should run quickly to get a copy of this one because you will not want to miss it!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via the Revell Reads Blogger Program via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

*Clean Christian romantic suspense. Rated PG because of intensity of the action.*

**Photo and info from author’s website at** http://www.lynnhblackburn.com

This book is available now in all formats. Here is a list of suggested retailers:

Until next time, my dear readers. Keep reading, keep loving, keep believing!

Review of LOOKING FOR LEROY by Melody Carlson

On March 1, 2022 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

The story of Brynna and Leroy is heart-touching and realistic. The two met at a camp when Brynna was in high school but haven’t been in touch for years, since Brynna married the man she calls Dirk the Jerk. Dirk left her for a younger woman and now Brynna is feeling like life has passed her by. When her friend from school Jan asks her to go on a summer camping adventure with her, Bryanna reluctantly agrees, so the two set off from Oregon together. Brynna shares with Jan about her long ago love named Leroy whose family owned a vineyard, so Jan makes it her mission to find Leroy and see that he and Brynna are reunited. I enjoyed all of the characters and especially liked the descriptions of California wine country. The author made the places come alive, especially Leroy’s vineyard with its lovely sunrises, sunsets and rolling hills with vineyards. My favorite character was Leroy’s daughter Sophie who loved and accepted people as they were, without expecting perfection. She was also quick to forgive and an example to her sisters Gina and Luna. I was impressed with the realistic way the relationship between Leroy and Brynna was rolled out, slowly and with a lot of obstacles in the way, just like in real life. The plot was well-paced, telling the story of a second chance at love for both the protagonists as well as for the Leroy’s family. Told with vivid details and a knowledge of vineyards and camping, this is a story that was a real pleasure to read and to recommend to others.
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. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

*Rated G for all audiences. Lovely, Christian romance!*

*For all information about the author, go to her website at* http://www.melodycarlson.com

Happy Release Day to Melody Carlson! You can purchase this delightful book online at any of these sites:

Review of UNTIL LEAVES FALL IN PARIS by Sarah Sundin

On February 4, 2022 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

I absolutely devoured this book, with its vivid descriptions of war-torn Paris under the Nazi regime. The prose was written so well that I felt as though I became a part of the story, walking the streets of Paris and listening with bated breath for the arrival of Nazi soldiers. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Lucie and Paul, both Americans who joined the resistance in France in order to try to make a difference in the war effort. Putting their lives in danger repeatedly, they are dedicated to the cause and slowly learn to trust each other. Their love story is one for the ages, one that is unforgettable and poignantly bittersweet. I loved the story, the characters and the atmosphere that was so realistically portrayed. The author is a master at research and at pulling the reader into the story in such a way that I embraced the story and was sad to see it come to the end. I wanted to continue to follow the delightful and precocious Josie who wrote about Rock Monsters and a heroine named Feenee. Thus, the author sneaked in a story within a story, one from the viewpoint of a child that was insightful. Anyone who enjoyed historical fiction will want to get this book and add it to your collection of memorable stories to cherish and share.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Revell Reads Blogger Program via Netgalley. I also purchased my own copy of the book by pre-order since I love this author’s style and the lessons that I learn from her books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

The action is intense in Nazi-occupied Paris, but the story is clean and well worth reading for anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Rated G.

*Photo and information are from the author’s website at* http://www.sarahsundin.com

This is a new release and can be purchased at any of the retailers listed below or at your favorite bookseller.

Buy this amazing book today and get lost in the story of Paul and Lucie and their love story for the ages!

Review of THE GIRL WHO COULD BREATHE UNDER WATER by Erin Bartels

On January 11, 2022 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

I have read every book by this author and I think this is my favorite so far. It is a heart-touching story of friendship, forgiveness and redemption. It is also a journey of self-exploration for the protagonist, Kendra Brennan. Kendra has always dreamed of being an author, so when she publishes her first book, she is excited beyond belief. That excitement is brought to a screeching halt when she receives a letter at her apartment signed from “A Very Disappointed Reader.” So Kendra returns to her grandfather’s cabin on Hidden Lake, the place that she is sure the letter originated because she wants to confront the writer who stole her joy. In her stay there, she discovers hard truths about her friends Cami and Tyler and their parents. She also meets the translator for her new book, a German American named Andreas, a man with a good sense of humor and of himself. Finding out more about Cami and Tyler is central to the story and helps Kendra explore her own feelings and how they have shaped her writing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and all of its nuances, as the story meandered down the road of self-discovery and acceptance of the past. The plot was somewhat complicated and woven like a spider’s web, intricate and multi-layered. The characters fairly jumped off the page into my mind, drawing me to read more about their lives and their relationships together. The story is sad at times and uplifting at others, with an underlying theme that God can redeem even the worst circumstances and that He understands why we have become the people that we are today. I highly recommend this book for all who enjoy good Christian fiction with lessons to teach and relationships to discover. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Revell Reads Blogger Tour via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

**Photo and Bio are from the author’s website at** https://erinbartels.com.
**ERIN BARTELS** is the award-winning author of *We Hope for Better Things*, *The Words between Us*, *All That We Carried*, and *The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water*. Her short story “This Elegant Ruin” was a finalist in *The Saturday Evening Post* 2014 Great American Fiction Contest and her poetry has been published by *The Lyric*. She lives in the capital city of a state that is 40% water, nestled somewhere between angry protesters on the Capitol lawn and couch-burning frat boys at Michigan State University. And yet, she claims it is really quite peaceful.
Find her on Facebook @ErinBartelsAuthor and on Instagram @erinbartelswrites.

Available Now where ever books are sold. Here are purchase links for your convenience:

I cannot recommend this book highly enough! Buy it today and discover a new world of redemption, forgiveness and facing the future with hope!

*I am blessed to be a part of this program that introduced me to* Erin Bartels and many other wonderful Christian authors!

Review of A STRANGER’S GAME by Colleen Coble

On January 9, 2022 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

The story of Torie Bergstrom’s determination to discover the truth about what happened to her best friend Lisbeth was a compelling read, with a sub-plot of a romance developing between Torie and sea lion trainer Joe. Torie is an heiress to a hotel empire and takes her responsibilities seriously, including solving the mystery of her friend’s death. With the help of Joe and local state trooper Craig, Torie follows the clues and inevitably winds up endangered herself. The plot is somewhat complicated because the resort on Jekyll Island is the site for an important meeting with the Federal Reserve and someone nefarious seems to be targeting the participants. I thoroughly enjoyed the details of the setting and the behind-the scenes look at the resort. It was obvious that the author had done her research! The romance between Joe and Torie was well-paced and realistic, with Joe’s concern for his daughter Hailey overriding any romantic feelings he might have for Torie. With three-dimensional characterization and a storyline that was original and absorbing, this book held me enthralled and even giving advice to the characters. The ending seemed rushed to me, but I think that was because I did not want the story to end. I could continue reading about Torie’s adventures and her quest for truth and justice for a long time to come. The story was just that good and the characters were just that likable. Of course, there were villains who were despicable, portrayed just as they should have been. All in all, this is a winning book in the romantic suspense genre and fans of good, clean Christian fiction will cheer at the ending and applaud a well-written book.
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. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

*Image and Bio from the author’s website at* http://www.colleencoble.com

Released on January 4th, so you can buy a copy today by following one of these links:

Review of NEVER LEAVE ME by Jody Hedlund

On January 6, 2022 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

Sweet romance with some sizzle underneath the surface. It also includes time travel to Medieval times, so if the 14th century is your cup of tea, then this book is for you. Since I had not read the first book, I felt like I was missing parts of the story at first, but I quickly caught on and enjoyed the plot that involved healing waters and villains willing to do anything to get their hands on it. I wasn’t too impressed with the love between Ellen and Harrison because he did not come out as a strong, swashbuckling hero. But, steady as he goes worked okay with Ellen as the main character who has to come to terms with her own weaknesses and move forward toward the future. This was a different kind of book for me because I felt like it mixed Christian faith with fantasy, sci-if and romance, all in a plot that worked well together. The characters were fleshed out well, but Harrison was still not my favorite hero because he was somewhat indecisive at times. What enticed me to read was the synopsis and what kept me reading was the realistic struggle with faith that the main characters had. This was presented in a way that did not at all distract from the main plot of a healing water cure for all diseases and Ellen’s quest to find and save it for herself and others who need it. The themes of unselfishness, sacrifice and God’s intervention were all welcome additions to the story.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via Netgalley through the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

*Christian fiction suitable for all who enjoy this genre.*

*For more information about the author and her works, please visit her website at*http://www.jodyhedlund.com

Available NOW! Purchase Links:

Review of FIRST KISS AT CHRISTMAS by Lee Tobin McClain

On December 7, 2021 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

This is part of a series and reading it made me want to go back and find the other books I have missed. Kayla Harris is a preschool teacher who has never been kissed. No, not kidding! Twenty five and never been kissed! She encounters Tony DiNunzio when he enrolls his nephew in her class. The little boy is precocious and suffering from being recently orphaned and in some ways is a center of the story. Kayla and Toni become allies in helping his nephew succeed and overcome fears and then they become friends and then…well, it’s predictable, but so much fun getting there. The story was entertaining and well-written, with just a hint of mystery and a lot of clean romance. My favorite scenes were at the holiday dance when Kayla reminded me of Cinderella, complete with an evil stepsister (actually just a former classmate) who has set her sights on Tony. The dialogue between Kayla and Tony is realistic, setting a tone of humor as well as a deep need to be understood and accepted. The themes of acceptance, forgiving others and yourself and looking forward to a brighter future are all uplifting and just what is needed for the upcoming holiday.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book Harlequin via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

*Clean Fiction, rated PG because of the death of a character’s sister*

Author Bio:

Lee Tobin McClain is the bestselling author of more than thirty emotional, small-town romances described by Publishers Weekly as enthralling, intense, and heartfelt. A dog lover and proud mom, she often includes kids and animals in her books. When she’s not writing, she enjoys hiking with her goofy goldendoodle, chatting online with her writer friends, and admiring her daughter’s mastery of the latest TikTok dances.

Social Links:

Author Website

Facebook: @leetobinmcclain

Twitter: @LeeTobinMcClain

Goodreads

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Review of DEAD FALL by Nancy Mehl

On November 13, 2021 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

This book was an intense and high-octane read, with a plot that was twisted and totally absorbing. When a serial killer finds a way to have his victims die without being there, the action ramps up and the story took off to parts that were unexpected and highly entertaining. The FBI’s BAU team seems to be the ones targeted and even protection inside the academy is not keeping them safe. They know someone on the inside is helping out the killer, but they have to find out who it is before the next person dies. Sound fascinating? It really was! With believable characters who are struggling with their faith and their personal relationships this book had me mesmerized and waiting for the next victim to fall, trying to guess the identity of the next one to die as well as the perpetrator. The author did a stellar job of creating a dark and eerie atmosphere and so much suspense that it made my heart race from beginning to end. This is a romantic suspense, with a little romance and tons of suspense. Fans of this genre will be missing a real treat if they pass up this book!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

*I would rate this book P*G-13 *because the action is so intense and the conflict in faith is very real.* *The theme of good versus evil is prevalent throughout the book.*

*Photo and biography below from author’s website on Amazon*

Nancy Mehl lives in Missouri, with her husband Norman, and her very active puggle, Watson. She’s authored thirty books and is currently at work on a new FBI suspense series for Bethany House Publishing.

All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

You can find out more about Nancy by visiting her Web site at: http://www.nancymehl.com. She also is active on the Suspense Sisters: http://www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com and on FaceBook!

Available now! Purchase Links:

Many thanks to Bethany House Publishing for the ARC to read and review. This was one of my favorite books that I have read this year!

Review of LIGHTS OUT by Natalie Walters

On November 6, 2021 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

This is a compelling book dealing with international intrigue and it has a fast-paced plot. The characters are believable and some are even lovable, in spite of this being a romantic suspense/spy thriller. The synopsis is that Brynn Taylor developed a computer program to combat terrorism and is responsible for inviting spies from foreign countries to come to the U.S. in order to form cooperation between the nations. Unfortunately, things don’t work out as planned because one of the spies, an Egyptian named Remon Riad, suddenly disappears. The SNAP agency, with Jack Hudson in charge of the team, is tasked with finding the missing spy and securing the U.S. from a terrorist plot. The action is non-stop and fast-paced and although it is slightly futuristic, it is not out of the realm of possibility. The themes of second chances and forgiveness make the romantic part of the book come to life and the whole spy scenario definitely added plenty of suspense. I enjoyed the pace, the characters and the whole idea that two people who don’t really trust each other had to work together to safeguard the nation. My favorite character was Kekoa, the giant Hawaiian who is a computer genius with a dry wit and a big heart. I am delighted that this is part of a new series because this book had me enthralled and waiting for the next shoe to drop and for the reactions of the heroes.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book on Netgalley from Revell Books as part of the Revell Reads Blogger Tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

*For the author’s biography and information about her other books, please visit her website at* http://www.nataliewalterswrite r.com

This book is available now and can be purchased at the following retailers:

Buy this book today and get caught up into the world of spies, international intrigue and romance!

Review of SURVIVAL (Fallout Series #1) by Lisa Harris

On October 29, 2021 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

The unthinkable meets the unimaginable in this creative new book that has the entire grid go down and the little town of Shadow Ridge, Texas, left to survive on its own. The townspeople have to find ways to get water, grow food, and cook meals without any electricity. Reading this book was like reading a book about a disaster that could actually happen one day. No one knows why the grid went down in the event called the Quake, but everyone knows their lives have changed. Jace and Levi are visiting their parents for their anniversary and now they can’t leave town because there is no transportation or even a way to call others to find out what is happening outside of their little world.. Since Jace’s father Garrett was injured badly and can’t return to law enforcement, Jace fills the gap and is determined to do his best to keep the town safe from roving bandits and crime. The book was fast-paced and horrifyingly believable. There are multiple layers to the story, with family relationships, the innocence of childhood and the criminals who want to destroy the town and everyone in it. I really enjoyed how the layers were revealed, with each chapter bringing more excitement and some high drama. I also enjoyed the underlying love story when Jace decides that he really would like to get to know single mother Morgan better. There is so much tragedy in this book, but there is more hope, a desire to forge a better future and to trust that goodness and love are still possible. I was delighted to know that this is the first book in a new series and look forward to the second Fallout book. Excitement and some good practical means to survive if you are off the grid are only part of what is included in this amazing book!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as part of her review team. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

*This is Christian fiction with some intense action and conflict, but it is suitable for all readers at this reading level.*

*Photo of the author from her website* http://www.lisaharriswrites.com

Biography (from the author’s website)

I’m a wife, mom, teacher, author, dreamer, photographer, world explorer, but most importantly a follower of Christ Jesus.

I currently live with my husband near the Indian Ocean in Mozambique where we work as church-planting missionaries. We’ve started the empty nest stage, which means I’m always ready for school breaks and visits! I see my writing as an extension of my ministry which also includes running a non-profit organization.

The ECHO Project works in southern Africa promoting Education, Compassion, Health, and Opportunity and is a way for us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves…the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.” (Proverbs 31:8)

When I’m not working l love hanging out with my family at the beach, playing games, cooking different ethnic dishes, and heading into the African bush on safari.

This extraordinary book is available now. Purchase here:

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Vickie's Book Nook and Meditation Corner

Tag: Christian fiction

Review of MALICIOUS INTENT by Lynn H. Blackburn

This book is available now in all formats. Here is a list of suggested retailers:

Until next time, my dear readers. Keep reading, keep loving, keep believing!

Review of LOOKING FOR LEROY by Melody Carlson

Happy Release Day to Melody Carlson! You can purchase this delightful book online at any of these sites:

Review of UNTIL LEAVES FALL IN PARIS by Sarah Sundin

This is a new release and can be purchased at any of the retailers listed below or at your favorite bookseller.

Buy this amazing book today and get lost in the story of Paul and Lucie and their love story for the ages!

Review of THE GIRL WHO COULD BREATHE UNDER WATER by Erin Bartels

Available Now where ever books are sold. Here are purchase links for your convenience:

I cannot recommend this book highly enough! Buy it today and discover a new world of redemption, forgiveness and facing the future with hope!

Review of A STRANGER’S GAME by Colleen Coble

Released on January 4th, so you can buy a copy today by following one of these links:

Review of NEVER LEAVE ME by Jody Hedlund

Available NOW! Purchase Links:

Review of FIRST KISS AT CHRISTMAS by Lee Tobin McClain

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Review of DEAD FALL by Nancy Mehl

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Many thanks to Bethany House Publishing for the ARC to read and review. This was one of my favorite books that I have read this year!

Review of LIGHTS OUT by Natalie Walters

This book is available now and can be purchased at the following retailers:

Buy this book today and get caught up into the world of spies, international intrigue and romance!

Review of SURVIVAL (Fallout Series #1) by Lisa Harris

Biography (from the author’s website)

This extraordinary book is available now. Purchase here: