Review of THE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM by Melody Carlson

On September 5, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780800744724 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:09/03/2024 Pages:176

Synopsis

When Madison McDowell returns from several years teaching overseas, she has high hopes of picking up where she left off at her family’s Christmas tree farm in Oregon. But between damage from a recent wildfire and the neglect due to her sister Addie’s unwillingness to invest, the farm is in sad shape. In fact, Addie is intent on selling the property. And to top it off, her former high school flame, the now-widowed Gavin Thompson, has plans to break Madison’s heart again by turning his neighboring property into a dusty, noisy dirt bike track for his daughter.

With the odds stacked against her, Madison decides there’s only one thing to do: double down on her dreams. It will take a ton of hard work—and some help from an unlikely ally—to save the farm she so dearly loves. But it may take a miracle to restore her relationship with her sister.

My Thoughts

Melody Carlson hits all the right notes in this story about a family Christmas tree farm and the daughter who wants to keep it running and in the family. Madison returns home from teaching in Mongolia and finds that her younger sister Addie just wants to sell the family farm, and the books look so bad that it may have to become a reality. Madison works hard to try to make the farm profitable, hoping to change Addie’s mind. In the process, Madison meets her boyfriend Gavin from her high school years and his rambunctious daughter Lily. With a dirt bike trail imminent for Lily and Addie’s determination to sell the farm, Madison’s plans to snuggle into her old home and relax are definitely put on a back burner. I really enjoyed the story, the family drama, the developing romance, the relationships between the sisters and the relationship that Lily and Gavin had. There are some really heartwarming scenes, like dinner outside by the fire pit and siting on a bench by the river. This book is one with a lesson in forgiveness and letting go of the past as well as moving forward. Faith is a part of the story but it doesn’t take over the plot but is woven into it as the families attend church and talk about their Christmas plans. I enjoyed getting to know each of the believable characters, but mostly I enjoyed visiting the Christmas tree farm where dreams can come true if you want to work for it.
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.”

About the Author

Melody Carlson has written more than 200 books (with sales around 6.5 million) for teens, women and children. That’s a lot of books, but mostly she considers herself a “storyteller.” Her novels range from serious issues like schizophrenia (Finding Alice) to lighter topics like house-flipping (A Mile in My Flip-Flops) but most of the inspiration behind her fiction comes right out of real life. Her young adult novels (Diary of a Teenage Girl, TrueColors etc.) appeal to teenage girls around the world. Her annual Christmas novellas become more popular each year. She’s won a number of awards (including Romantic Time’s Career Achievement Award, the Rita and the Gold Medallion) and some of her books have been optioned for film/TV. Carlson has two grown sons and makes her home in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and yellow Lab dog.

Purchase Links

Review of TARGET ACQUIRED by Lynette Eason

On September 2, 2024 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

Product Details

ISBN-13:9780800741204 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:08/20/2024 Series:Lake City Heroes , #2 Pages:304

Synopsis

Tough-as-nails Kenzie King has finally earned her place as a tactical medic on a SWAT team. But not everyone on the all-male team accepts her. Rumor is, she didn’t get the position because of what she could do but because of who she knew. Which means she has to work harder and longer than anyone else to prove herself.

Cole Garrison is a man with deep faith who is finally ready to settle down and build a family of his own—if he can find the right person, that is. Kenzie sure has set off his interest meter, but trouble seems to follow in her wake. Since she joined the team, someone has begun to ambush and pick off team members, one by one.

It’s all hands on deck to discover the culprit and end the killing. Can Kenzie and Cole put aside their differences and work together as a team? Or will their budding attraction be snuffed out by a sniper’s bullet?

My Thoughts

The Lake City heroes are back in this second book in the series and this one explodes on the scene with non-stop action and a pace that is like a race car that is holding on to first place. Kenzie King is the newest member of the SWAT team and she is feisty and courageous, holding her own against the members of the team who seem to not want her there. Unfortunately, there is another threat, an unknown attacker who would just as soon kill her to get her off the team. Cole Garrison, her team leader, wants Kenzie safe but he is stymied about how to do that and keep the rest of the team safe too. The danger and suspense continue to ratchet up all the way until the surprising revelation of the perpetrator. I followed the clues and did my best to guess who was making the attempts on Kenzie’s life, but I didn’t guess right until the very end with a great clue that those paying attention will definitely catch. Filled with the author’s signature twists and intense suspense, this book is one not to miss that kept me turning pages and totally engaged in the story. With a brilliant twist at the time of revelation, this well-crafted book is intriguing as well as balancing faith with heroism. The characters all have complicated personalities that mesh well with the plot and they are realistically flawed. This is a satisfying and captivating romantic suspense that I recommend you plan to enjoy in one sitting because it will be impossible to 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.”

About the Author

Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. She has won numerous awards including the Carol, the Selah, the Golden Scroll and more. Her novel, *Her Stolen Past* was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network.
Lynette teaches at writing conferences all over the country and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Mystery Writers of America (MWA), International Thriller Writers (ITW), and Faith, Hope, and Love.
Lynette can be found online at www.lynetteeason.com and www.facebook.com/lynette.eason and @lynetteeason on Twitter.

Purchase Links:

Baker Publishing Group

Books in Series

Both may be read and enjoyed as a standalone.

Heartfelt thanks to the Revell Reads Blogger Program for including me in the blog tour for this amazing book!

Review of BETWEEN THE SOUND AND SEA by Amanda Cox

On August 8, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780800742744 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group. Publication date:08/06/2024 Pages:336

Every family has its secrets. Josephina Harris wouldn’t mind if her family still had a few of their own after a lawsuit tarnishes their name. When an opportunity opens to become a temporary keeper of a decommissioned lighthouse on a North Carolina island, she jumps at the chance to escape her small town to oversee its restoration.

As the work begins, “Joey” discovers strange notes tucked deep in the crevices of the old stone walls—pages torn from a lighthouse keeper’s log signed by someone named Mae who recounts harrowing rescues at sea. Fascinated by a woman lighthouse keeper, Joey digs into the past only to discover there’s never been a record of a lighthouse keeper by that name.

When things start to go amiss on the island, locals are convinced that it is the ghost of the lighthouse keeper and his daughter who were lost at sea during World War II. As Joey sifts through decades of rumors and legends and puts together the pieces of the past, what emerges is a love story—one that’s not over yet.

My Thoughts

This novel is multi-generational, multi-layered and so engrossing that it was hard to put it down to do anything else. I was totally invested in the story of Joey, Walt, Finn and Cay as well as the secondary characters of Peter and Kit. The author made the characters live and breathe in my imagination and I could not wait to continue the story each day, waiting for new revelations of secrets long hidden and a love that was never forgotten. Walt and Cay were friends when they were young, occupying the marshland of the Outer Banks in the time of WWII. Cay’s father was the lighthouse keeper of Bleakpoint Island and her secret about his health changed her life in unimaginable ways. Walt hires Joey Harris to come to Bleakpoint and restore the keeper’s cottage and the lighthouse. When she accepts the job, Joey has no idea of the commitment and history that she will find as she works on fulfilling Walt’s dream. The plot is mesmerizing, with layers to each character’s story that are methodically and masterfully revealed. With family secrets, unresolved disagreements and broken relationships, this book has everything that tugs at the heart in one very neat and well-crafted package. The descriptions of the setting are so realistically portrayed that I could hear the sound and smell the marsh as I read. The entire book captivated my imagination and my desire to see everyone have a happy ending. Amanda Cox knows how to write a story that pulls you into the place, the lives of the characters and the conflict, all with a compassion and love that is at the center of the story. This is one of the best books I have ever read and I cannot recommend it highly enough for its entertainment value as well as the themes of restoration, forgiveness and seeking the lost in order to find peace. Five stars do not do this masterpiece justice!
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.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Before becoming a stay-at-home parent, Amanda spent her time counseling children, families, and individuals through life’s challenging moments. Now she uses those same skills to develop layered characters and stories, bringing them on a journey of hope and healing. A journey she hopes her readers experience in their own lives as they read.
Amanda is the Christy Award-winning author of *The Edge of Belonging*, *The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery*, and *He Should Have Told the Bees*. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Bible and theology and a master’s degree in professional counseling, but her first love is communicating through story.
A few of her favorite things are the sanctuary of the great outdoors, the feeling of pen on paper, the sound of her children’s laughter, and exploring new places with her husband of 19 years. (Oh, let’s not forget good fiction and good coffee.(She’s addicted to both.). You can read more about Amanda Cox and her books on her website: Amanda Cox Writes

Interview on YouTube

Amanda Cox and Terri Gillespie

Purchase Links:

https://bit.ly/4fA4CI1 (Baker Book House)

https://bit.ly/44mL6tu (Barnes and Noble)

https://amzn.to/3Gk4AUe (Amazon)

https://bit.ly/3JI9vjS (Bookshop)

https://bit.ly/4duoAlM (Christian Book)

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

https://bit.ly/4fA5cWd (Target)

https://bit.ly/46EXHt5 (Walmart)

https://apple.co/3ygpDac (Apple Books)

https://bit.ly/3WUHFIx (Powells)

https://bit.ly/4fA5CvL (Books-a-Million)

With deep appreciation to the Revell Reads Blogger Program for including me in this blog tour. I always purchase Amanda Cox’s books, but it is a special blessing to receive an early copy and get to review it!

Review of COLD VENGEANCE by Nancy Mehl

On July 27, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780764240478. Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:07/16/2024 Series:Ryland & St. Clair , #3 Pages:336

When a renowned crime podcaster vanishes without a trace, former FBI behavioral analysts turned private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are called upon to track her down. As they wade through the evidence she left behind, they unearth a startling connection—she may have discovered the existence of an unknown killer, and he will stop at nothing to carry out a deadly plan.

As the pair delves deeper, they soon find themselves the targets of a relentless enemy determined to silence them. With their lives—and hearts—on the line, can they confront the evil that threatens them before it consumes them both?

My Thoughts

Wow! This book is a faith-filled thrill ride and the perfect conclusion to River and Tony’s story. In this final book in the Ryland and St. Clair series, River and Tony are investigating a missing podcaster, April Bailey at the request of her boyfriend Nathan. They begin to methodically research and end up delving into the cold cases that she covered in her podcast. This novel is a propulsive thriller and impossible to put down. Expertly crafted to weave faith into the storylines, Cold Vengeance is multi-layered and a gripping tale with escalating tension as the story unfolds. The second layer is one of family and relationships as River struggles with forgiving her father for walking out on her mom. This is heart touching and so realistic that I found myself praying for her to do the right thing before I reminded myself that she is a fictional character. The third layer is the helper of the Salt River Strangler who is still stalking River; the danger that he presents to her life is always there, just beneath the surface, as Tony won’t even let her out of his sight. Tony makes a good, determined protector and even shows his vulnerable side when he is personally attacked. I enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and their humorous banter. I really liked River’s endurance and steadfast faith as she faces the unimaginable. I especially enjoyed the glimpses of the villains and the clues they gave me into who the perpetrator was. This is intriguing, complex and brilliantly written Christian fiction that balances faith with action and suspense with romance in a masterful way.
Disclaimer
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley, but I was not required to write a positive review. 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

Nancy Mehl is the author of more than fifty books, a Parable and ECPA bestseller, and the winner of an ACFW Book of the Year Award, a Carol Award, and the Daphne du Maurier Award. She has also been a finalist for the Christy Award. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson. To learn more, visit NancyMehl.com

Purchase Links

Review of UNTIL OUR TIME COMES by Nicole M. Miller

On July 19, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review3 Comments

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780800744700

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:07/02/2024

Pages:384

American horse trainer Adia Kensington is living her dream of working at the famous Janów Podlaski stables in Poland, where they breed the best Arabian horses in the world. But her plans to bring the priceless stallion Lubor to the US are derailed when the German army storms into her adopted country in 1939. Little does she know this is just the beginning of six long years of occupation that will threaten her beloved horses at every turn.

Bret Conway is at Janów Podlaski under the guise of a news reporter, but his true mission is intelligence gathering for the British. That and keeping Adia safe, which is harder and harder to do as she insists they must evacuate 250 horses to save them from being stolen, sold, or eaten by the invading forces. What follows will test their physical, mental, and emotional strength, as well as their faith in God, humankind, and each other.

Drawn from true events of World War II, this epic story of escape, capture, resistance, and love from debut novelist Nicole M. Miller will thunder into your heart like a herd of beautiful horses across a raging river.

My Thoughts

I am delighted that I was given the opportunity to read this fascinating story about a special breed of horses that were the targets of both the Nazis and Russians during WWII. Before I dived into the pages of this novel, I had no knowledge of Arabian horses, their origin or the perils they went through during the war. The novel wove information that was interesting and compelling into the story of horse trainer Adia Kensington and spy Major Bret Conway. Adia is from the U.S. and has traveled to Poland specifically to work with the horses at the Janow Podlaski stables since she has a family connection and an affinity with them. Adia is a talented and intuitive trainer who is not quite ready to face the challenges of a Nazi invasion, but she rises to the task in unexpected and surprising ways. She comes up with a plan to evacuate the horses and then has to fall back on plan B when the evacuation fails, forming an alliance with a German colonel to keep the thoroughbreds safe during the chaos of war. Not only does Adia shelter a little pickpocket orphan named Ewan, but she finds other creative and dangerous ways to help the efforts of the allies while also safeguarding her beloved horses. The destruction of war is evident throughout the story and some beloved characters are victims to the ravages it brings, all of which make the story captivating. I enjoyed the story immensely, even though I am personally not a big horse lover. The way the author layered the story with events from the war, the personal lives of Adia and Bret and the insightful look into the challenges of keeping horses safe when an entire nation is overrun by enemy forces kept me reading long past my bedtime. Brilliantly written and balancing action with history and romance, this story is memorable, an eye-opening look at people overcoming what seems like insurmountable obstacles in order to achieve worthy goals. The themes of hope for the future, faith and pure grit were evident, but not overly emphasized so that the main story continued to be Adia and her goal to save the bloodline of the stallions. The characters are people that I would like to get to know in real life since they are inspirational and courageous as well as dynamic and well-developed. The chemistry between the characters was believable and showed great depth of emotion. All in all, this was one of my favorite books to read this year with its unique story that drew me in and kept me there until the very end.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Revell. 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.”

A story of war, I would rate this book PG. It is Christian Fiction.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

From the author’s website at Nicole Miller and in her own words:

I live in Southwest Washington state with my husband and two sons, along with my two purebred Arabian horses, chickens, ducks, dogs, cats, and guinea pigs. As a long-time horse owner, I’ve been involved in several horse organizations throughout my life, including serving as a Clark County Fair Court Princess and Miss Teen Rodeo Washington.

When I’m not writing or tending the animals, I works in human resources. A journalism major, I’ve received several national and regional awards for my nonfiction writing from American Horse Publications and the Society of Professional Journalists.

Check out my short stories from Revell, too!

Purchase Links:

Review of COAL BLACK LIES by Cindy K. Sproles

On June 19, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780825448232

Publisher:Kregel Publications

Publication date:06/18/2024

Pages:288

Believing the bitter lies you tell yourself leaves little room for the sweetness of truth
Coal miner Joshua Morgan managed to do the impossible—he broke away from the stranglehold of the iron-fisted Barton family and the Company Store, to whom all the miners in the Appalachian Mountains are indebted. But it cost him the life of his young daughter, who was run down by a posse led by Thomas Barton while coming to collect Joshua’s payment to the store.
Five years later, a sweet but slow-witted young girl lands on his doorstep, and Joshua’s desire to protect her from the clutches of the Bartons increases his thirst for vengeance. Joshua sets out to discover where the girl came from in order to take down the Barton family once and for all.
His journey leads him to the truth about the day his daughter died, a reality he finds hard to accept. But when confronted by Thomas Barton himself, Joshua is forced to rethink the dark lies brewing in his heart. If he broke away, could Thomas have also? Despite his misgivings, can Joshua join forces with a man he once despised to free the miners from the tyrannical Barton family?

My Thoughts

This novel is one of the most heart-tugging books that I have ever read about the plight of the coal miners and those who took advantage of them for profit. Joshua and Raney escaped the life of coal mining and took up farming but not before they lost their beloved daughter Anna to one of the cold-hearted Bartons who owned the mining operation. Joshua is eaten up with grief and bitterness as well as the need for revenge, but a small child leads him in a new direction. Once they find Aughtie wandering their property, they vow to keep her safe from the Bartons and anyone else who might seek to harm her. The portrayal of the characters is realistic and dynamic as they undergo changes in heart and mind thanks to the example of the child who has a mental deficiency but whose simple love and desire for peace and forgiveness stirs everyone around her to do better than they thought possible. Along with his good friend Clive, Joshua comes up with a plan to overthrow the power of the Bartons, but the danger is real and the lives lost are heartbreaking. This is a story of resilience, determination, and the power of change and forgiveness on a small mining community. It is also the story of family and how family is more than blood kin. Finally, it is the story of survival in spite of overwhelming odds and evil that is all-encompassing. I enjoyed the story, especially the realistic dialogue and details of everyday life for the miners and their families. The story was paced just right for the story that was unfolding, methodically painting the need for change and the power that one family held over hundreds of others because of a company store and the greedy quest for black gold. The fact that Aughtie is a child with what we know as Down’s Syndrome makes the story even more gut-wrenching as her understanding of what is happening is more clear than that of most of the adults in charge of her care. My favorite character was Joshua, a man who went from desperation for revenge to dependence on God’s help to find justice for the miners. With multiple layers in the plot and in the lives of the characters, this is an epic novel that captivated me from the beginning and held me enthralled until the satisfying conclusion.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and 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 Advertising.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cindy Sproles is an author and speaker. She is the cofounder of Christian Devotions Ministries and the cowriter of the popular He Said, She Said Devotions written with her cofounder, Eddie Jones. She is a novelist and best-selling author. Cindy’s devotions and articles are published in Christian newspapers across the eastern seaboard, including having been used to represent legislature for the protection of the elderly. She is a speaker to women’s conferences addressing not only the heart of women but also their biblical responsibilities to their families. As a teacher and speaker for Christian Writers Conferences, Cindy teaches writing skills and how to write placing God in the forefront. She is a contributing author to CBN.com and is the Executive Editor for www.christiandevotions.us and a freelance editor for Ironstream Media. Cindy has served in the past as an acquisitions editor and also a managing editor for publishers and she now uses that experience to mentor and coach new writers through her mentoring service, WRAMS (Write Right Author Mentoring Service) she shares with Lori Marett. She is the director of the Asheville Christian Writers Conference, held each February at the Cove, the Billy Graham Training Center, Asheville, NC. She is a certified life coach and mentor, an eldercare specialist, and a special needs advocate. Cindy is an Appalachian-born and raised mountain girl, and her novels strive to show life in the mountains during the1800’s. Cindy is a best-selling, award-winning novelist with her books having been named Novel of the Year multiple times. She is the mother of four adult sons and lives in the mountains of East Tennessee with her husband. Cindy can be contacted at www.cindysproles.com or by emailing cindyksproles@gmail.com.

Purchase Links:

Review of HIDDEN IN THE NIGHT by Elizabeth Goddard

On June 7, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780800742065

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:06/04/2024

Series:Missing in Alaska , #3

Pages:336

At the behest of her ailing mother, former FBI special agent turned rare-book collector Ivy Elliott arrives in Alaska to secure an unpublished Jack London manuscript kept secreted away for decades. But when she arrives, she learns the manuscript is gone—taken by the granddaughter of the woman who possessed it. Ivy sets off in pursuit, not just to save the manuscript but to save the vulnerable girl, who was previously trafficked and has no idea what she’s getting herself into.

Joining forces with Alaska State Trooper Nolan Long, Ivy must battle a blizzard, sabotage, and the worst of an Alaskan winter as the search goes on. But every answer they find only raises more questions—and the danger to their lives and to the missing girl may only be the tip of the iceberg.

My Thoughts

This book gets an absolute must-read five plus stars from me because it has everything I enjoy in romantic suspense and then some! The plot includes a missing young woman, a missing Jack London manuscript and a murder, plus romance that is just starting to simmer. The plot is deeply immersive and I was quickly engaged in cheering for Nolan and Ivy, hoping that they could find the missing Danna unharmed. The research made the story authentically fascinating, especially the information about the glaciers and the mystery surrounding the manuscript. The entire story gave me a sense of being there, experiencing the building tension and the necessity to hurry before disaster struck. The multi-layered plot teasingly revealed the details methodically and with so much dramatic action that the book was unputdownable. Infused with spiritual truth and a sparkle of a beginning romance, the last book in the Missing in Alaska series blew me away with its realism and the sharp writing that made it a compelling and edgy read for me. I enjoyed the characters and was stunned by the surprising revelation of the identity of the villain. I really enjoyed finding out facts about this scenic and mysterious state of Alaska; the author paints a vivid picture that makes it easy to imagine the setting and place myself into the story. There are plenty of clues and red herrings and so much happening to favorite characters that I was intrigued by the fact that I had no idea what to expect next. This book has intense suspense that is brilliantly written and cleverly paced. I am sorry to see the series end here, but I have no doubt that the author will create a new series that is equally well-crafted and totally mesmerizing.
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.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Goddard is the USA Todaybestselling and award-winning author of 60 novels and novellas, including Cold Light of Day and the Rocky Mountain Courage and Uncommon Justice series. Her books have sold nearly 1.5 million copies. She is a Christy Award, Carol Award and Reader’s Choice Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier and HOLT Medallion Award finalist. When she’s not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry. For more information about her books, visit her website at www.elizabethgoddard.com.

Purchase Links:

Don’t miss any of these exciting Alaskan adventure books, filled with romance, suspense and danger!

I am delighted to be a part of this wonderful program that gives me the opportunity to read and review new releases! Thank you, Revell!

Review of UNFORGIVEN by Shelley Shepard Gray

On May 28, 2024May 27, 2024 By vickleaIn Book ReviewLeave a comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780800745790

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:05/21/2024

Pages:304

My Thoughts

The two main characters, Seth Zimmerman and Tabitha Yoder, have an unfortunate part of their lives in common. Both live in semi-isolation from the Amish community where they live. Because of their past choices beyond their control, they have not been shunned but neither are they welcomed by the Amish around them. Seth shows up at Tabitha’s house frequently, chopping wood for her, leaving gifts of groceries and helping out around the house as much as he can. Tabitha is a recluse, rarely leaving the confines of her house since her divorce from the abusive Leon, a choice that has led to her isolation from family and friends. Seth is an ex-con who accidentally killed a man who was attacking another woman, so he is not accepted in the Amish society either. The plot is mesmerizing and totally engaging, with the friendship that the two establish gradually developing into mutual respect and finally love. The title of the book is intriguing, especially since I spent a lot of the time I was reading it thinking that the two were “Unforgiven” by the Amish. There is a deeper reason for the title and I won’t spoil it for you by revealing the hidden meaning. The characters are so realistic and relatable, characters who are caught in the challenges of life and end up victims of their circumstances in more ways than one. I enjoyed getting to know Seth’s heart, what led him to be so kind and compassionate to others. I also liked getting to know the quiet and talented Tabitha who weaves baskets so that she can earn money to live on. The story seems realistic and believable with a pace that is perfect for the story being told. There is a lot of spiritual truth built into the story but it doesn’t overwhelm the tale with preachiness. An entire community is affected when these two find themselves combining efforts to keep Tabitha safe from Leon, newly released from prison and determined to possess what is his. I loved the story, the life lessons and the character development. The entire book is brilliantly written, action packed and addictive. A rich story infused with spiritual truth, “Unforgiven” immersed me in the drama of the story with its intricate plot threads and satisfying conclusion.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via Netgalley as well as a hard copy from Baker Book 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.”

Christian Fiction, rated PG due to content about abuse

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

More information about Shelley Shepard Gray and her books can be found at her website at shelleyshepardgray,com

Purchase Links:

Review of JUSTICE DELAYED by Sarah Hamaker

On May 15, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

Publisher:Sarah Hamaker

Publication date:05/15/2024

Series:The Seeking Justice Series

My Thoughts

Melender Harman has had a rough life, with her grandmother who was taking care of her dying and then having to move to live with her Aunt Ruby and Uncle Quentin. She knew from the beginning that she wasn’t welcome in their home, but she had no other options so tried to make the best of a bad situation. When her baby cousin Jesse disappears, Melender is accused of kidnapping and killing him and her nightmarish life gets worse. Melender spends seventeen years in prison for the crime and now she has returned to town and is determined to discover what actually happened to baby Jesse because she knows that she did not harm him. Enlisting the support of reporter Brogan Gilmore, a man who is more than a little leery about her claims of innocence, Melender sets out to methodically discover the truth. This book is a fast-paced quest for truth and justice, with a lot of suspects along the way who threaten both Brogan and Melender. In addition to being a great suspense novel, it is also one with a heartfelt foundation of faith as Melender depends on the faith she learned from her grandmother Sudie to get her through her stint in prison and now through all the suspicion that she is facing in the town that she has returned to. The characters are dynamic and if they are not all lovable, they are all totally believable. My favorite character was Brogan, a man not afraid to champion the underdog. I did not like Melender’s cousins Jared at all, a smarmy druggie who not only doesn’t tell the truth, he doesn’t see any reason to do so. This book made it easy to pick favorite characters and those who were immediate suspects although I had to wait for the intricate threads to reveal what really happened and why. Masterfully crafted and totally mesmerizing, this is a story that would lend itself to a good book for a group discussion and it is definitely a thought-provoking novel with a theme of forgiveness and a forward look to the future.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

This is Christian fiction and includes intense suspense. Rated PG.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Hamaker has been spinning stories since she was a child. While she’s had two traditionally published nonfiction books (Hired@Home and Ending Sibling Rivalry), her heart is writing romantic suspense. You can find a list of her books, listen to her podcast, “The Romantic Side of Suspense,” and connect with Sarah at sarahhamakerfiction.com.

Purchase Links:

• Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Justice-Delayed-Seeking-Book-ebook/dp/B0D2VPS8YF/

• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/justice-delayed-sarah-hamaker/1145518920?ean=2940179840572

• Apple books: https://books.apple.com/gb/book/justice-delayed/id6499559247

• Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/justice-delayed-8

Review of LOVE ON A WHIM by Suzanne Woods Fisher

On May 8, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review4 Comments

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9781493445530

Publisher:Baker Publishing Group

Publication date:05/07/2024

Series:Cape Cod Creamery

Pages: 304

Brynn Haywood’s impulsive marriage to a man she’d known less than 24 hours leaves her with deep regret. She flees to Cape Cod, finding refuge with her loyal friend, Dawn Dixon. As Brynn grapples with her emotions, Dawn acts swiftly, eager to help secure a lawyer for her through her mother Marnie’s good friend, Lincoln Hayes. However, Lincoln’s preoccupation with his daughter’s lavish wedding brings unexpected challenges.

The arrival of Lincoln’s estranged son, Bear Hayes, stirs the waters further. Alarmed by his father’s extravagant generosity toward the Dixon family, Bear ignites friction between Marnie and Lincoln. As the wedding day arrives, Lincoln vanishes–and an unwelcome guest makes a surprise appearance.

My Thoughts

This book had me captivated by the story and the characters. Brynn Haywood’s unconventional marriage to a man she just met in Vegas and her escape to the cape to ponder what she had done absolutely mesmerized me. I wanted to know who this mystery man was and how it came about that level-headed engineer Brynn would even consider such a thing. Once she gets to the cape with her friend Dawn and Dawn’s mom Marnie Dixon, Brynn can reflect on what she did and Dawn assures her that she will help her dissolve the marriage. But Brynn gets too busy helping Linc Hayes prepare for the wedding for his daughter to think too much about her hasty choice. In fact, Brynn loves baking so much that she begins to consider leaving behind her degree in engineering. There are twists and turns in this complicated tale of choices, consequences, honesty and forgiveness. I really loved all of the characters, but I was especially drawn to Bear Hayes, Linc’s son who is in town for the wedding. Bear doesn’t approve of anyone in town except his mom and his sister and seems determined to make his dad’s life hard. I didn’t love him for his actions which were at times reprehensible. I loved him for his heart that seemed to be wounded and unready to accept anything new. In contrast, Brynn is embracing new things in her life, perhaps a bit too quickly. The story is compelling, filled with wit and wisdom. With each chapter starting with a saying about ice cream that gave me a clue about what would happen in the chapter and also a thought to ponder, this book is memorable and one to share and discuss with others. The subplots about Dawn and Marnie dovetail perfectly with the story about Brynn and all are concluded in a very satisfactory way, with a few surprises, too. This is contemporary Christian fiction at its best and deserves to be savored just like ice cream!
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, Partr 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”