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:

Amazon

Review of DEADLY TARGET by Elizabeth Goddard

On October 28, 2021 By vickleaIn Book Review5 Comments

This non-stop, fast-paced romantic suspense thriller had me on the edge of my seat and advising the characters about what they needed to do next to stay safe. Beginning with an attempted assassination with a boat and moving to gunshot wounds and exploding dams, the action in the book never let up. There are twists galore that kept me reading and guessing until the very satisfying conclusion. The characters of Nathan and Erin were so human, with flaws and doubts just like all of us have. I really enjoyed the heroics of Nathan and the determination of Erin. The character that surprised me was Erin’s mom Celia, a lady with a strong will and a lot of secrets from the past. I enjoyed reading about characters from the first book in the series, but this one can definitely be read as a standalone without creating any confusion at all. With spot on tension and intense drama, the book called to the mystery lover in me and touched all of the right buttons to enthrall me. I highly recommend the book to anyone who enjoys a fast pace and a heart-thumping adventure.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books via Netgalley and a hard copy from the author because I am a member of her review team. I was not required to write apology review. 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.”

*Intense action and some violence described, but nothing graphic and no expletives or sex* *scenes. This is a clean Christian read appropriate for all readers at this reading level.*

*Author photo from the cover of* “The Big Thrill” http://www.thebigthrill.org

Bio from the author’s website https://elizabethgoddard.com

With over a million books sold, Elizabeth Goddard is the USA Today bestselling, award-winning author of over fifty novels and counting, including the romantic mystery, THE CAMERA NEVER LIES–a 2011 Carol Award winner. Four of her six Mountain Cove books have been contest finalists. Buried, Backfire and Deceptionare finalists in the Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery and Suspense, and Submerged is a Carol Award finalist. A 7th generation Texan, Elizabeth graduated from North Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and worked in high-level software sales for several years before retiring to fulfill her dreams of writing full-time.

Coming on November 2, 2021, but you can pre-order it now from any of the following retailers:

Many thanks to author Elizabeth Goddard and to Revell Books for this wonderful book to read and review! I sincerely appreciate having been chosen to participate in the ARC reviews for this talented and inspiring author.

Review of A SEASON ON THE WIND by Suzanne Woods Fisher

On October 14, 2021 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

This is a beautifully written story set in the Amish town of Stoney Ridge, a peaceful town filled with people who genuinely care about each other and practice the tenets of the Amish faith daily. When Ben Zook, who used to live in Stoney Ridge and who is a famous birdwatcher, returns to the town, he has one goal in mind. He wants to see the White-winged tern, a bird that is rarely seen in the states. Ben has come to meet with Micah Weaver, a teen boy who has a speech impediment but who knows birds better than anyone around. Ben stays in a guest house provided by Penny Weaver, Micah’s sister and an old friend whom Ben does not recognize, much to her dismay. The stage is well set for a complicated tale of family, friendships won and lost, relationships and choices. I was drawn into the story of these complex and realistic characters from the beginning. Each character is presented realistically, complete with flaws and human foibles, but they are also each seen as uniquely suited for the tasks that they are expected to do. As Ben spends more time with the Weavers, waiting for that Tern to appear, he also goes on a trip of self-reflection and discovery. He has escaped from Stoney Ridge once and does not want to return permanently, but he does have roots there that cannot be denied. The most brilliantly written parts of the book occur at the end of each chapter where we are introduced to various birds that Micah and Penny have seen as they walk around their environs. The habitat of each bird as well as their eating and mating habits are described in a meticulously detailed way that inspired me to curiously seek my guide to birds that includes photos so that I could picture the bird as they were described. Thus, this book was entertaining, educational and encouraging as it sought to gently guide the characters to the place that God would want them to be. I really enjoyed the language used in this novel; it was almost like lyrical prose, calling to my heart as the birds spoke to Micah. There was some inevitable conflict between some of the characters and a little mystery involved with Ben’s cousin Natalie, a young woman who seems to want to know more about the Plain people but won’t reveal her reasons for her curiosity. The relationship between Ben and his estranged father is a focus of Ben’s self-discovery and forgiveness is a definite thread throughout the book. Fans of brilliantly written Christian fiction will thoroughly enjoy this book and it’s message of heart, home, and hope.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: As a member of the Revell Reads Blogger Program, I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. 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.”

*A completely clean Christian read suitable for all who love romance and a good story*

*For information about the author and her work, please go to her website at* http://www.suzannewoodsfisher.com

This lovely story is ready for you to order and enjoy. Purchase Links:

Review of LABYRINTH OF LIES by Irene Hannon

On October 5, 2021 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

This second book in the “Triple Threat” series definitely deserves kudos for being captivating, intriguing and intense. Irene Hannon has written a brilliant and insightful page-turner that was as fast-moving as it was complex. This book has a tightly written plot with plenty of suspense. There are numerous characters, all of whom are remarkably realistic. The theme of drugs is definitely relevant and the fact that the author uses code names for the perpetrators up until the climax added to the edginess of the story. I enjoyed the simmering romance between Cate Reilly and her former love interest, Zeke Sloan, and rooted for her to forgive him his past transgressions so that they could move on together. This is an addictive and satisfying addition to the genre of romantic suspense, with the author’s unique style showing in every chapter. Written with clever twists and enticing dialogue, this is one not to miss and can be read as a standalone. My favorite character was Cate’s roommate at the posh Ivy Hill School, a young girl named Kayla who lacked self-confidence but who changed as the book progressed, maturing as her character should have. The book was a fascinating character study of why people choose to do evil and was thought-provoking at times. I highly recommend it for those who enjoy a fast-paced and well-crafted mystery, with more than a hint of romance.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: As a member of the Revell Reads Blogger Tour, 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.”

*The action in this book is intense, but it is a clean Christian read suitable for all who enjoy a good romantic suspense novel.*

*For information about the author and her books, please visit her website at* http://www.irenehannon.com

Happy Release Day to Irene Hannon! You can purchase her book today at any of these online retailers or at your favorite bookstore:

Get this book today and get wrapped up in a thrilling romantic suspense!

Review of SINCE YOU’VE BEEN GONE by Tari Faris

On September 18, 2021 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

This is an enchanting Christian contemporary romance with such a sweet and original story that it was hard to put down. Leah Williams has a problem with trust issues since her father walked out on her. When she returns to the little town of Heritage, Michigan to re-open her grandfather’s store, she needs the help of Jon Kensington, a former basketball star who has a hidden crush on her, but her difficulty trusting him leads to issues between the two. There are also several sub-plots, like Jon taking over his deceased father’s company from an overbearing uncle, Jon’s rebellious sister Abby presenting extra trouble for him and a couple named Colby and Madison who also seem to have sparks flying between them. The entire story was brilliantly written, with believable interactions between the characters and a plot that wove around just enough to keep me absorbed. The addition of a hippo named Otis that moved around the town’s central square and then disappeared completely was a clever touch and one that added humor to the story. With an insightful theme of forgiveness, accepting others and trusting God as well as people, this book is a not-to-be missed conclusion to the Restoring Heritage series. There are three books in the series, and this is the final one. I have read two of them and can say without reservation that they can each be read as a standalone or enjoyed as a series.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. 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 PG because there is a character who is pregnant and unmarried. This is a contemporary Christian romance, with emphasis on Christian…it is basically a clean read.*

*Photo and bio from the author’s website at* http://www.tarifaris.com *Check out this site…it’s a lot of fun to read!*

Available NOW. Purchase Links:

I hope that you have enjoyed this review and that you will get this book and read it. It kept me entertained for hours and is like reading a fairy tale as an adult. I love happy endings, don’t you? ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️❤️❤️❤️

Review of THE SECRET KEEPERS OF OLD DEPOT GROCERY by Amanda Cox

On September 13, 2021 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

This is a beautifully written multi-generational story with a theme of finding redemption by letting go of the past and forgiving yourself. Glory Ann is the matriarch of the family, an octogenarian grandmother who wants to finish out her days running the family grocery store in their little town. Her daughter Rosemary, however, is determined to sell the store and ease her mother into the comforts of living out her years resting. Sarah, Rosemary’s daughter, has suffered a tremendous loss in her life and has come home to heal and to work at the family’s grocery store, the last place that she really felt happy and fulfilled. All three women have secrets from each other and all three have to forgive themselves before they can open themselves up to a true family relationship. Told in the present and the past, this book slowly reveals the secrets and the anguish that each woman is secretly holding on to. I especially enjoyed these revelations, anxiously awaiting each secret to be revealed to each other and for the reactions of the others once they were revealed. The characters were so realistic that I almost expected them to jump off the page and speak to me. The plot took what could have been trite and made it into a wonderfully woven story of strong women who have to face the past and find the future together. There are so many layers to this book, with childhood neglect and grandparents who spurn their kin, but the best part was that as a reader, I was reading all of the secrets and urging the characters on to discover the truth and to embrace forgiveness for the past. The lessons that can be learned from reading this lovely tale are manifold, but I think the one that is most memorable for me is that of acceptance and moving forward. I thoroughly enjoyed this book of Christian fiction, with a foundation of faith but not so overwhelming that it took over the entire story. Fans of contemporary women’s fiction will enjoy this novel and ponder the wisdom that it imparts.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. 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 as a PG-13. It is a clean Christian read with some adult themes in it.*

*Photo and BIO from the author’s website at* http://www.amandacoxwrites.com

Purchase Links for this Lovely Story:

Many heartfelt thanks to Revell for giving me the opportunity to read and review this life-changing story!

Review of HOSTILE INTENT by Lynette Eason

On August 2, 2021 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

This is one of the best romantic suspense books that I have ever read! From the very beginning, it was captivating, with a scene from a home that was as mesmerizing as it was devastatingly awful. The story of Ava Jackson meeting up with her childhood crush Caden Denning was fascinating, but the crux of the story was a serial killer who was wiping out entire families, including the young children. The motive behind these evil actions is the center of the story and what kept me reading at a rapid pace to find out. From the first murders until the breathtaking last scenes, this was a non-stop runaway train of a book. The details of the crime scenes are not graphic so they did not disturb me, but just the thought that entire families were wiped out instantly was enough to make me want to do who would do such a thing. The plot is wrapped up in international intrigue and Ava’s secretive father is involved in a great deal of what is happening, so she seems to be a focus of the killer, too. Caden is her self-appointed protector and a real hero just when she needs one. With her father declared dead, her mom dying and a killer on her trail, Ava decides to trust Caden with her life. The characters were realistic and well-rounded, the type of people I would want to meet and be friends with. I was enthralled by the work that the FBI analysts did, especially Daria, who was intuitive as to needs and how to find solutions when there seemed to be none. I enjoyed seeing the FBI portrayed as capable heroes as they should be. I especially enjoyed Ava’s intelligence in figuring out puzzles and clues left behind by her father as well as her grit and determination to seek the truth at all costs. There were definitely some unlikeable characters, but that is by design, because who can like a villain who kills families or anyone involved with him? I just loved this book from cover to cover and think that is is the best of the series although any of them can be read as a standalone. My favorite part of the book? It was a clean read! No expletives, steamy sex or graphic displays of violence. Kudos to the author for writing explosively good romantic suspense that appeals to readers who don’t want any of the distasteful elements in their books.
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. 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 romantic suspense. Clean read with some really intense scenes, so I would rate it PG-13.

*Photo from the author from her webpage on Amazon. For her biography and to sign up for her newsletter, go to* http://www.lynetteeason.com

This amazing book will be available on August 3rd! Purchase Links:

Vickie's Book Nook and Meditation Corner

Tag: Christian fiction

Review of FIRST KISS AT CHRISTMAS by Lee Tobin McClain

Available NOW! Purchase Links:

Review of DEAD FALL by Nancy Mehl

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

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:

Review of DEADLY TARGET by Elizabeth Goddard

Bio from the author’s website https://elizabethgoddard.com

Coming on November 2, 2021, but you can pre-order it now from any of the following retailers:

Many thanks to author Elizabeth Goddard and to Revell Books for this wonderful book to read and review! I sincerely appreciate having been chosen to participate in the ARC reviews for this talented and inspiring author.

Review of A SEASON ON THE WIND by Suzanne Woods Fisher

This lovely story is ready for you to order and enjoy. Purchase Links:

Review of LABYRINTH OF LIES by Irene Hannon

Happy Release Day to Irene Hannon! You can purchase her book today at any of these online retailers or at your favorite bookstore:

Get this book today and get wrapped up in a thrilling romantic suspense!

Review of SINCE YOU’VE BEEN GONE by Tari Faris

Available NOW. Purchase Links:

Review of THE SECRET KEEPERS OF OLD DEPOT GROCERY by Amanda Cox

Purchase Links for this Lovely Story:

Many heartfelt thanks to Revell for giving me the opportunity to read and review this life-changing story!

Review of HOSTILE INTENT by Lynette Eason

This amazing book will be available on August 3rd! Purchase Links: