Review: The Heartfelt Formula by Leslie K. DeVooght

On October 22, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review5 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1967524075

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lanier Price Publishing‏

Pages : ‎ 337 pages

Synopsis (from Amazon)

After another breakup, Atlanta attorney Hope Elliot decides to stop waiting for her happily-ever-after and write it herself. Inspired by her beloved Christmas romance movies, Hope crafts The Heartfelt Formula: a foolproof plan including snowball fights, cookie baking, and a perfectly timed first kiss.

Trading the big city for coastal Georgia, Hope sets out to find her small-town soulmate. But the actors in her carefully plotted scenes keep shuffling—especially when Brennan Taylor, her ambitious co-counsel continues to fill in for Cole Walker, the carefree furniture maker, who Hope cast as her hero.

Between courtroom drama, a mismatched leading man, and a mistletoe mishap, Hope must decide if she’ll trust her formula or accept a plot twist that might leave her all alone, or perhaps, with happiest ending of all.

A faith-filled romantic comedy for anyone who believes love, like Christmas, can still surprise you.

My Thoughts

There is so much to love about The Heartfelt Formula, a sweet romance with a strong foundation of faith and characters that popped off the page right into my heart. I really wanted Hope to succeed in finding her HEA by following the same formula that the movies do. I loved the wit and humor in the book, especially the scenarios that Hope set up just to convince her carefully chosen Mr. Right that they needed to be together. This is a book about overcoming the past, facing a hope-filled future and finding out who you really are and what you should be doing with your life. I loved the way Hope built her relationship with her stepfather and even accepted her mom with all of her adorable quirks. In fact, I loved everything about this book that was packed full of plot, dynamic character development and just plain fun. The author did a spectacular job of writing a compelling and believable story that was easy to read and refreshingly delightful. The romance was fun, flirty and satisfying as well as totally charming. This is a book to read when you need a lift in spirit since I don’t think that anyone who reads this book will leave it with anything but a wide smile and gratitude for the ahhh feeling that comes from this warm-hearted tale of love and laughter.
I voluntarily 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.

About the Author

PW Best-Selling Author Leslie Kirby DeVooght writes women’s fiction inspired by romcoms, coastal Georgia, and fried okra! While Leslie and her family live in Jacksonville, Florida, they often visit her hometown of St. Simons Island, Georgia, where she loves to go for long walks on the beach. A graduate of Florida Southern College and Mercer Law School, Leslie is always revising her life from prosecutor to judge to PTA president to author of happily-ever-afters.

Facebook at Leslie Kirby DeVooght

Twitter @LeslieDeVooght

Instagram @Leslie.DeVooght.Author

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Review: After We Fall by Deborah Clack

On October 8, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review2 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-139780800746957

Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Publication Date:10/06/2026

Series: Shelter and Sky

Pages:368

Synopsis (from the author’s website)

Self-sufficient Penelope Reid has her life completely mapped outa necessity after surviving foster care. Now she’s on a mission to prove that she’s capable of managing a halfway house at Twelve Bluebells Ranch. The last thing she needs is hindrance from the charming Luke Granger, who asked her to dance three years ago, then disappeared before the music began.

Luke lives a nomadic lifestyle as a security specialist and has never found a reason to put down roots. So when the ranch neighboring Twelve Bluebells is vandalized, securing the area is just another gig for him before he hits the roaduntil he’s reunited with the bossy brunette and her generous heart.

As Luke and Penelope work alongside each other to care for the ranch’s halfway house residents, Penelope makes a mistake she might not recover from. Her careful walls begin to crack, and Luke’s restless heart finds reasons to stay. But when tragedy strikes, they must decide if it’s worth the risk to lower their guards for a love that could give them the home they’ve always longed for.

For content warnings, go to this book’s page on the author’s website. Note that there may be spoilers in these warnings. Deborah Clack After We Fall

My Thoughts

After We Fall is one of the best contemporary romance books that I have ever read, dealing with some difficult topics in a sensitive way that demonstrated the author’s attention to detail and her compassion for those who have suffered from abuse and trauma. Penelope is a feisty and courageous young woman who wants to become the program director for the Twelve Bluebells Ranch, a home for girls who have aged out of foster care but who still need a place to live and supervision. When her boss Harlan and his new wife Meredith leave for their honeymoon, Penelope thinks that she has the perfect opportunity to show what a great candidate she would be for the job. Unfortunately, she has to deal with Luke Granger, the security consultant that Harlan hired since there was some mischief right before the wedding. Luke and Penelope clash heads in the most adorable and humorous ways, making this book funny as well as a serious look at some hard topics. Luke is relaxed but always does what he promises. Penelope is ultra-organized to the point that when she gets injured and cannot fulfill her responsibilities she almost has a meltdown. The story is perfectly paced, with lots of drama happening with the residents of the Bluebells as well as between Luke and Penelope. The characters are relatable and it was easy for me to have empathy for Penelope after she got a TBI since I had a stroke and still suffer from similar symptoms. Luke is the “bad boy” who is really a good guy hero and was my favorite character. I was charmed by his constant use of toothpicks, much to the chagrin of Penelope and by his desire to pitch in and help out at the ranch by not only providing protection but also drum lessons. There are some tense scenes with one of the residents who makes poor choices against the advice of everyone and ends up paying severe consequences for those choices. This novel touched me in all of the right places, warming my heart as it also made me think about choices and how they not only affect me but others as well. With themes of learning to trust and finding love when you aren’t looking for it, this masterfully crafted and totally clean novel is a slam dunk winner for me and deserves much more than the five stars that I can give it.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing Group. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Deborah Clack is a native Texan, non-recovering chocolate addict, and contemporary romance author.

Her titles include Odyssey of the Mind World Champion, Orthodontist Patient of the Month, and Most Improved Player at the Rolando Blackmon Basketball Camp.

A high school AP history teacher for 10 years, Deborah earned a Masters Degree in Education and was awarded Teacher of the Year for Arts in Education. Now she creates stories of her own filled with struggle, laughter, and a hard-fought romance. She asks her heroines, as well as her readers, to dig deep, play hard, and laugh often.

She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, DFW Ready Writers, and the Faith, Hope, & Love Christian Writers. Her work won both the ACFW Genesis Contest and the ACFW First Impressions Contest in Romance. She received First Place in the Contemporary Romance and Flash Fiction categories in the Foundations Contest at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.

As a short story writer, she has sold flash fiction romance to Woman’s World Magazine.

Deborah can lip-sync the heck out of Barbara Streisand’s “Jingle Bells” and is a fan of the original romantic suspense movie, Star Wars. She lives in The Lone Star State with her family where they cheer for the Dallas Cowboys.

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Review of Watched by Jerusha Agen

On September 24, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review1 Comment

About the Book

ISBN-139781956683608

Publisher; Sdg Words, LLC

Publication Date: 09/24/2026

Series: Windy City Westons

Pages: 454

Synopsis (from the author’s website)

Robert Weston became a psychiatrist to heal people’s minds. He can’t lose his. But if the strange occurrences of forgetfulness and confusion continue, he may not be able to hide the truth much longer. When his psychological issues put his life in danger, he must face the reality that the genetic nightmare he fears inheriting has seized him.

Attorney Monty Montgomery knows she doesn’t like Robert Weston. His expert testimony once ruined her client’s case. She didn’t realize the psychiatrist isn’t only wrong but also completely unreliable. How can she defend him against a malpractice suit for the insurance company that hired her when he’s clearly incompetent?

Robert and Monty have bigger problems than they know. Someone has a mission. A mission that won’t be stopped until somebody ends up dead.

Is everyone a pawn in the lethal game, or is Robert’s failing mind playing tricks on him? Even with the help of the Weston siblings, Robert and Monty may need a mind smarter than theirs—the mind of God—to escape this twisted game alive.

My Thoughts

This book offers a cleverly written page-turner that is intricately plotted in a way that drew me into the story right away. Robert’s story is a compelling one of threats, lost self-confidence and finding love in a most unlikely place. Robert is a talented psychiatrist who has incredible intelligence and insight into the minds of others and why they act as they do. What he does not have in this novel is the ability to discern what is happening to him when he begins forgetting things. Rather than search for a cause, he immediately assumes that he is beginning to show the same signs of dementia as his grandfather and is overwhelmed at times with self-pity. He is currently being sued for malpractice when one of his patients attempted suicide and is in a prolonged coma. His attorney, Monty Montgomery, is talented, self-confident and takes no prisoners in her quest for justice. It helps that her opponent is her former fiancé named Edmund whom she found less than trustworthy and totally unreliable. Robert and Monty work well together when he is not forgetting to show up and embarrassing her. The family dynamics in this novel are noteworthy, both for Robert and Monty. I really liked getting to know Monty’s sisters and her very protective brother Corey. Her life is threatened because of taking Robert’s case and Robert is feeling increasingly unsure of his own abilities since he keeps doing things that are out the ordinary for him. The twists are numerous as are the red herrings, and the main characters are lovable and easy to cheer for. I was totally unprepared for the great reveal of who the culprits were. I enjoyed the guessing game but I was wrong each time, much to my great pleasure as I kept guessing and reading. Neither was I prepared for the heart-pounding, edge-of-my-seat climax that had me holding my breath and wondering how it would all turn out. This book is unputdownable, with a strong faith foundation and an equally strong message of hope and encouragement to begin a relationship with the Lord. This is a fantastic and compelling story with masterfully written characterizations and edgy suspense.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I also purchased my own copy of the book for my collection. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

Christian Fiction with Intense Suspense, Rated PG

About the Author

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

With a B.A. in English and a background in screenwriting, Jerusha is a speaker, writing instructor, and Fear Warrior who sounds the call to battle against fear in our everyday lives.

Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats. You’ll often find her sharing irresistibly adorable photos of them in her newsletter and on social media.

Get a free suspense story from Jerusha and find more of her thrilling, fear-fighting novels at www.JerushaAgen.com.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

WEBSITE: http://www.JerushaAgen.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/JerushaAgenAuthor/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/jerushaagen/
BOOK BUB: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jerusha-agen-fd78bc82-831e-41c0-81d6-d02a6ddade0e
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7281400.Jerusha_Agen
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TWITTER: https://twitter.com/SDGwords

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Review: Fatal Pattern by Kate Angelo

On September 22, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review2 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-139780800746643

Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Publication Date: 09/15/2026

Series: The King Legacy

Pages: 368

Synopsis (from the Author’s Website)

A hyper-intelligent stalker attacks behavioral analyst and forensic psychologist Dr. Tori Crew at knifepoint, shattering the fierce independence she’s built since her parents’ unsolved murder. Forced into an off-the-books criminal investigation, Tori must push her expertise—and her fiercely guarded heart—to the breaking point as a killer’s pattern emerges. Homicide Detective Blade St. James has been Tori’s friend and protector since childhood. Haunted by his own past of parental abandonment, Blade is determined to build a stable life and find the peace that always seems just out of reach. But when Tori’s life is threatened, his protective instincts shift into overdrive. As they are plunged deep into a conspiracy with roots in her past, the boundary of their friendship blurs as danger closes in and their hearts reveal a truth they can no longer deny. Can they unmask the sophisticated serial killer before they become the final, fatal piece in the pattern?

My Thoughts

Dr. Tori Crew has a stalker determined to kill her and Detective Blade St. James is determined to protect her at any cost. The city also has a serial killer wreaking havoc and leaving weird clues with fractals and patterns that require the expertise of many on their team at the MMA Academy. The one person that they cannot depend on for help during this novel is Stryker, their mentor and teacher who is lying in a coma in the hospital. So, without Stryker, the team has to follow the clues that lead them on a chase that gets more dangerous as they get closer to the truth. This is a complex and multi-layered romantic suspense with definite elements of thriller interspersed within the compelling story. With family relationships, secrets from the past and a vicious serial killer involved, this book held me captive and kept me turning the pages. I wanted everything to be okay for all of my favorite and very lovable characters, but throughout most of the book, I did not see how that was even possible. There was constant danger and threats, non-stop action and red herrings mixed in with a multitude of possible suspects. I enjoyed following the clues and guessing but it was the big reveal at the end that showed me I was going in the wrong direction, just as I think the author cleverly planned it. This is the second book in the King Legacy series and will be more enjoyable if you read the first book before this one, but it can be read and understood as a standalone. Five stars for action, five stars for drama, five stars for the characters, and ten stars for the ending that you will have to read to believe! Loved this book and highly recommend it for those who enjoy books with a faith foundation that is unputdownable.
I voluntarily 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.

Christian Fiction, Rated PG for intense suspense

About the Author

Kate Angelo is the Publishers Weekly bestselling author of Hunting the Witness, Selah Award winner of Deadly Holiday Hijack, and Amazon Top 100 bestseller of Driving Force. She serves on the executive board of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and works alongside her husband championing stronger marriages and families. Her journey from foster care to bestselling author fuels her fast-paced romantic suspense, where flawed characters discover hope and healing through life’s fiercest trials and relationships. When she’s not putting fictional people through the wringer, she’s out creating real-life happily-ever-afters at conferences and events nationwide. Connect with Kate at kateangelo.com.

Purchase Links

Review: High Exposure by Kelly Borjas

On September 19, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review3 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-139780825452635

Publisher:Kregel Publications

Publication Date: 09/15/2026

Pages: 304

Synopsis (from author’s website)

The riveting start to an adventure-driven romantic suspense series from a debut author

Determined travel blogger Julia Stevens is on her final assignment in snowy Silverberg, Colorado. She’s running from her past-and God-but the charm of small-town life brings little comfort when she’s face-to-face with the winter sport that killed her sister: skiing. Upon her arrival in town, she discovers a dead body and is compelled to research the situation, give justice to the man’s story, and kick off her new career in journalism.

Cade Haskins is back home after a failed mission and his subsequent retirement from the DEA. His father’s declining health has pushed Cade to prioritize family, and he helps at the historic Silverberg Hotel on his dad’s behalf. When Julia shows up at the hotel, Cade becomes her local contact. He quickly realizes she has a knack for sniffing around where she shouldn’t, and he attaches himself to her side.

With the local death connected to a meth ring, Julia’s investigation has unknowingly put a target on her back. As the danger increases and she begins to learn more about Cade and his family, she finds herself trusting the God she was running from. And Cade? He doesn’t want to get dragged back into DEA work, but it seems like he may not have a choice if he wants to protect Julia . . . and his growing attraction to her.

My Thoughts

The intense suspense in this debut novel had me captivated from the beginning. Julia’s story of running from her grief is relatable and relevant and was heart-wrenchingly realistic. In the small town of Silverburg, Colorado, Julia Stevens plans to conquer her fears, face her past and move on with life. What she did not count on was finding a dead body and encountering non-stop threats and danger as a result. Julia attracts the attention of former DEA Agent Cade Haskins who is running the local hotel and also tasks himself with keeping her safe. The plot is a fast-paced race to the bottom of a black diamond ski slope as the two protagonists try to find the source of the threats while also safeguarding their own secrets from the past. The romance is a slow burn and predictable, but such a satisfying and swoonworthy part of the story. The characters were realistic and my favorite was the spunky and fearless Julia who faced fear even when it was foolhardy and perilous for her. the ending was a slam dunk and I really enjoyed the intro to the next book in the series. I will definitely look for Ami’s story as I enjoyed Julia and Cade’s story so much. This book was hard to put down and thought-provoking as Julia and Cade both dealt with feeling responsible for things in their past that they could not change. The genre is Christian romantic suspense and this book hit all the targets for the genre as it enticed me to read with the suspense, entertained me with the romance and filled my need for a book with a faith foundation as the characters struggled with their faith but knew intrinsically that God was in control. I would give more than five stars if I could because this book is a must read for fans of Lynette Eason, Elizabeth Goddard and Nancy Mehl.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Kelly grew up in Southwest Colorado, exploring the outdoors as well as her hometown library. She transplanted to Southern California to attend Biola University, where she earned a degree in communication studies. While working in sales, she met her husband and earned a Master’s in Leadership and Organizational Studies from Azusa Pacific University. In her spare time, she and her husband enjoy boating, camping, and cheering for their kids in their various activities. By day, she’s the queen of her own castle with three active boys. By night (or very early morning), she writes happily ever after stories filled with romance and suspense from the Central Coast of California. Website for more information: https://kellyborjas.com/

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Review: Find Me in the Harvest by Sarah May Warren

On September 15, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review5 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-139781966463627

Publisher: Sunrise Publishing

Publication Date: 09/15/2026

Series:Jonathon Island Season 2

Pages: 268

Synopsis (from Sunrise Publishing)

Charlotte Sullivan has a PhD, a career she loves, and a heart full of cracks she’s learned to hide. She’s the sister who always shows up—and never gets noticed. When her family needs someone to save the annual harvest festival, guess who they call? Two weeks. That’s all she promised. Two weeks of hayrides, pumpkin patches, and pretending she doesn’t mind being invisible. Then she’s gone.

Callan Carver is just passing through. The firefighter hasn’t called anywhere home since his mother died. Staying means caring. Caring means losing. And he’s lost enough. But something about Charlotte makes him want to stop running.

She’s brilliant. She’s beautiful. And she has no idea. As they work side by side bringing the festival to life, Callan starts seeing a future he never let himself imagine. Charlotte starts believing she might be worth fighting for. Then tragedy hits…and suddenly they’ll both have to discover what it really means to stay.

My Thoughts

Charlotte Sullivan feels as though she is totally unimportant, an afterthought that is usually forgotten. Firefighter Callen Carver is struggling for find the dream that will fulfill him. The two of them meet on Jonathon Island when Charlotte is tasked by her brother to plan the Harvest Festival and Callen is assigned to work with her by the fire chief. With no idea how to plan the festival, the two of them make lists, brainstorm and get to know the townspeople and each other better. Charlotte is a scientist who studies soil, so planning a festival is out of her comfort zone. Callen is more comfortable teaching recruits at the firehouse than planning a festival. Together, the two of them manage to get the townspeople invested in the celebration and to participate in the fun activities that they are planning for it. This is an entertaining and engaging romance with a strangers to friends to more trope and a small town that makes everyone feel welcome. The plot is moderately paced and perfect for the blooming romance. The characters are relatable and lovable and flawed in a perfectly imperfect way. The climax was surprising and emotional because I wasn’t prepared for all of that drama, but it was so good and lent itself to a compelling conclusion to the story. This is a perfect book to read anytime you want to read a feel-good and uplifting story that has a heartfelt message of hope and dependence on God.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Growing up in a writer’s household, Sarah May Warrenalways knew she was doomed to catch the writing bug—and she did, right around the time she met and fell in love with her now husband, Neil. She finally started writing her first full length novel while pregnant with their first child, and she hasn’t stopped since. When she’s not writing a story, or adding another book to her endless TBR, Sarah can be found volunteering with her Church’s worship team, coordinating weddings, or cuddling up for movie night with her two amazing daughters—oh yeah, and that scruffy hubby of hers.

Visit her as SEWarrenFiction.com.

Purchase Links for Find Me in the Harvest

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Amazon

Review: Murders in the Marquee by Dana Mentink

On September 2, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review5 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-139781335002730

Publisher: Harlequin

Publication Date: 09/01/2026

Series: Murder Most Fowl Mysteries

Pages: 336

Synopsis (from the author’s website)

In this witty historical murder mystery set in a San Francisco hotel, an unlikely trio of amateur sleuths must uncover a killer before another guest checks out for good.

In 1905, the Grand Mallard Marquee is well known for its iconic style, as well as its daily duck parade. For Saul Niffler, a reformed jewel thief, working at the luxurious hotel offers a much-needed second chance. Staying out of trouble and in gainful employment is essential. Which makes seeing a body plummet from a penthouse window extra complicated.

Except…did he see it? There’s no body to be found, and Saul knows he should concentrate on his new duties as “Duck Commandant” rather than meddle. If only Kitty Rossi, a persistent young guest yearning to be a Pinkerton detective, would leave well enough alone. Kitty has already roped in Henry, the elevator man, to investigate suspicious goings-on around the hotel. And against his better judgment, Saul feels compelled to join them.

Between the mystery of Saul’s missing predecessor and a grisly discovery in a drain, all signs point to murder most fowl. And with a cold-blooded killer roaming the Marquee’s lavish corridors, keeping his job may be the least of Saul’s problems…

My Thoughts

The humorous antics in this novel by the amateur sleuths kept me reading and guessing and guessing again. The characters are quirky, lively and believable and easy to cheer for as Saul, Kitty and Henry try their best to follow the clues and find out who is responsible for the murders that must be happening in the Marquee. Of course, their quest is somewhat hampered by their inability to find a body as well as their normal duties. Saul is a bellhop when needed but his full-time job is the duck commandant for the daily duck parade. This was a hilarious and unexpected addition to the story and I especially loved Ruby and Uncle Joe, ducks who have a great deal of personality. Kitty is the daughter of an opera star whose aspiration is to be a detective, so she is delighted to find body parts and follow clues all over the hotel. Henry is a wannabe juggler whose paying job is the elevator operator. Together, these three make a formidable and unlikely cast of sleuths but they do a remarkable job of getting into and out of difficulties while also following wherever the clues lead. I enjoyed the fast pace, the entertaining and well-crafted plot and I especially enjoyed getting to know some of the most well-developed and unique characters ever created.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Dana Mentink lives in California where the weather is golden and the cheese is divine. Her family includes two daughters (affectionately nicknamed Yogi and Boo Boo.) Papa Bear is retired from the fire department and he met Dana doing a dinner theater production of The Velveteen Rabbit. Ironically, their parts were husband and wife.

Dana writes in two genres, cozy mystery and romantic suspense. She’s a New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author as well as a two time ACFW Carol Award winner, and a Holt Medallion recipient. Her suspense novel, Betrayal in the Badlands, earned a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award. She is honored to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Revell, and Poisoned Pen Press. Website: Dana Mentink.com

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Review of Fatal Finale by Nancy Mehl

On August 22, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Review2 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-139780764243387

Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Publication Date: 08/18/2026

Series: The Erin Delaney Mysteries

Pages: 320

Synopsis

When bestselling author Erin Delaney’s novel gets picked up for a movie deal, she eagerly awaits her friend Kaely Quinn-Hunter’s arrival in Tennessee before they head to California to observe the film’s production. However, when Kaely does not arrive at the scheduled time and Erin can’t reach her by phone, her concern grows.

A cryptic phone call from Kaely’s kidnapper confirms her worst fears–Erin has exactly six days to save her friend’s life by solving his twisted clues. The man’s message comes with a warning: Contact the police or FBI and Kaely dies. But Erin works for the Sanctuary Police Department and Kaely’s husband is with the FBI, putting her in an impossible situation. As Erin races against time, she’s forced to crack the kidnapper’s chilling puzzle before it’s too late.

My Thoughts

This novel is a great conclusion to the Erin Delaney series, with lots of action, chills, thrills and red herrings along the way. Erin has been offered a movie deal and is delighted that her best friend Kaely Quinn is going with her to California to be her emotional support and adviser. But Kaely never shows up as planned and Erin finds herself embroiled in a revenge plot by a mastermind determined to kill Kaely. Erin is a member of the police department and Kaely is married to an FBI agent, but all of their help isn’t enough for find Kaely by the established deadline unless Erin can truly figure out the clues. This book races to the finish with a fast pace and some chilling scenes of Kaely in captivity. The two young women together are a formidable force against evil, but now that they are separated by those same forces, the question is can they still prevail. I enjoyed the intriguing and complex plot and the compelling characters. I especially enjoyed Erin’s talents to solve a life-or-death puzzle emerging as she desperately tries to find and save her friend. This is a cleverly written novel with unexpected twists and believable drama. The propulsive pace of the novel kept me reading long into the night and the relentless tension in this edgy page turner kept me engaged from beginning to end. This was the prefect conclusion to a dynamic series, but it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
I voluntarily 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.

About the Author

Nancy Mehl is the bestselling author of 50 books. She’s won the Daphne Du Maurier Award, as well as an ACFW Mystery Book of the Year Award and a Carol award. She was also a finalist for the prestigious Christy award. Her short story, Chasing Shadows, was in the USA Today bestselling Summer of Suspense anthology. Learn more about her on her blog, the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com.

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. “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 for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

Purchase Links for Fatal Finale

Review of Things We Cannot Keep by Amanda Cox

On August 21, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review3 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-139780800746629

Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Publication Date: 08/18/2026

Pages: 336 pages

Synopsis (from the author’s website)

Tess has built a new life in Alabama, repairing timepieces and avoiding her troubled past as she restores her customers’ family heirlooms–treasures she never had herself. When a mysterious package arrives addressed to Teresa Baker, the name she abandoned, Tess finds herself drawn into a puzzle that threatens her delicate peace.

Then Elliot Sullivan appears at her door after eighteen years, and Tess knows he’s after more than just forgiveness. She doesn’t trust his motives, but it becomes apparent that he could be the key to uncovering the origin of the mystery package and its cryptic contents.

Tess has found safety in her simple life, but reuniting this lost heirloom to its rightful recipient requires her to come out of hiding. Each clue leads to a different place around the world, and each story reveals hidden truths. The question is whether she’s brave enough to face what she might find–and whether the man beside her can be trusted with what matters most.

My Thoughts

This beautifully written novel touched me in all of the right places. It made me think about what is important in my life, it made me ponder what I am leaving behind and it made me thankful for all I have in my life. This is a poignant story of Tess Holcomb who has secrets from her past that she prefers not to confront, so she stays in a small town in Alabama with new and supportive friends. She has a business established there in which she restores old treasures. It is her business that brings her past to the forefront when a pocket watch with a mysterious message attached is sent to her to repair. The watch brings her former childhood friend and first love Elliot back into her life, and together the two of them explore the mystery behind the watch. This book is a saga of the history of the watch and the people who owned it and passed it on to others. This story is so well-crafted with numerous characters who have their own connection to the timepiece, each one with a story to tell that Elliot and Tess discover together. The story is complex but woven together so masterfully that all of the pieces fit perfectly together to make one wonderful and thought-provoking tale. The characters are realistic and the plot is compelling with a quick pace and a story that engaged me from beginning to end. This is one of the best Christian fiction that I have ever read, combining history, mystery, and contemporary romance into one lovely story of life choices and what we truly need to leave behind. With lessons of second chances, redemption and a hopeful future, I enjoyed my time with Tess and Elliot and highly recommend this book for individuals but most especially for book groups as the entire book lends itself to discussion and self-reflection.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and I purchased my own copy to add to my collection of Amanda’s books. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Amanda Cox is an award-winning author of inspirational women’s fiction who loves telling stories about belonging, forgiveness, and the quiet courage it takes to love well—usually through flawed characters trying to make sense of life’s messy, beautiful moments.

She is a three-time Christy Award–winning author whose novels include ECPA bestsellers Between the Sound and Sea, The Bitter End Birding Society, and He Should Have Told the Bees. The Edge of Belonging, her Christy Book of the Year debut novel, remains a longtime reader favorite.

Amanda’s novels are known for their layered characters, emotional depth, and hopeful honesty. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Bible and theology and a master’s degree in professional counseling. Her past experience walking alongside hurting families continues to shape the way she writes about grace, healing, and the complicated beauty of relationships.

Through her stories, Amanda hopes to offer readers a place to pause, exhale, and remember they are not alone.

Amanda lives in Tennessee with her husband and three children, where life is full, noisy, and rarely predictable. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found homeschooling, reheating her coffee, or losing track of time in a story that lingers long after the final page.

Website and Social Media Links

Website: https://amandacoxwrites.wordpress.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/amandacoxwrites

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

Blog: https://hopeperch.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20033571.Amanda_Cox

Purchase Links

Review of Twilight Tactics by Lynette Eason

On August 5, 2026 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review3 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-139780800744939

Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Publication Date: 08/04/2026

Series: Soldiers in Shadows

Pages: 352 pages

Synopsis (from the author’s website)

FBI agent Collin Sullivan arrives at Broken Chains Ranch with Ollie Callahan—a foster teen and sole witness to a mob hit. The ranch, started by Collin’s cousin to provide a trauma recovery facility for veterans, should be a place he can keep Ollie safe until the trial. But what was meant as a peaceful haven becomes a battleground when armed attackers surround the property.

Survival expert Elena Thompson teaches wilderness skills at the ranch and coaches Ollie in self-defense, but soon the series of attacks on the ranch escalates into a full siege. The question is, Who are the attackers after? Ollie, the young witness? Or Elena, with her mysterious past? Cut off from help by tech skills superior to their own, Collin and Elena fight to keep everyone alive as secrets and danger close in.

My Thoughts

Twilight Tactics is the kind of book that I didn’t want to put down, but because of the intensity of the suspense and the danger that surrounded so many of the characters, I found myself just taking short breaks to ponder what I had just read and to try to guess what I thought would happen next. The plot is complicated, with a ranch that is serves as a haven for those who need a respite from life. It is appropriately named the Broken Chains Ranch. Everything there seems very peaceful for the owners and the veterans who reside there until Sully and Piper come with teen-aged Ollie, a witness to a murder whom they have to keep safe until she can testify. Ollie is precocious, proactive and one of those teens that you don’t want to be in charge of because she isn’t an easy client. But I loved her character and all of her believable flaws! In fact, I loved all of the characters and felt as though the author portrayed them all in a way that I could picture them in my mind. The plot was extremely fast paced and had a lot of twists along the way as the author covered subplots with the mob, preppers, the ranch and all who lived there, local law enforcement and relevant high tech like drones and jammers that cut off communication. Just when I was thinking that one more that could not go wrong for Sully and his team, another red herring fooled me. This is a tightly written plot that crackles with tension from beginning to end, with good chemistry between the characters and a sweet portrayal of a developing romance even in the midst of all of the danger. Filled with suspense and abundant secrets and lies, this is one of the best romantic suspense books I have ever read, with the emphasis on suspense. This is an edgy page turner that offers a strong message of forgiveness, hope and redemption which are all cleverly wrapped into the plot.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I also purchased a personal copy because I collect this author’s books. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author

Lynette Eason is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty books. Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. She has won numerous 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 can be found online at www.lynetteeason.com and www.facebook.com/lynette.eason and @lynetteeason on Twitter.