I am a Christian, a retired teacher, a mother and a grandmother. I love to read and I love the Lord Jesus Christ! Unless otherwise specified ,all visual illustrations are from the YOU VERSION APP of the Bible.
What a lovely, magical story set at Christmastime in the most wonderful town imaginable! Wishing Tree is a small town built around the theme of Christmas and with citizens who all know and support each other. Dena is running a B & B that she inherited while also dealing with morning sickness from her artificially inseminated pregnancy. Her sister Reggie has returned to town from Seattle for the renewal of wedding vows by her parents, a really big affair since her mom wants the dream wedding that she had never had. The entire book is like a dream, with love, romance, conflict and dogs that add humor to the story. The characters are realistic, just sarcastic enough that I could hear the author’s voice as she wrote their dialogues. Perfect casting! The plot moves along at a steady pace, with the story switching back and forth from Dena to Reggie and their love interests. I laughed aloud more than a few times and really enjoyed the antics of Belle, the Great Dane, being fearful of the little dachshund Burt. The addition of a precocious child was absolutely endearing! All in all, this is a sweet Christmas treat that everyone should enjoy, any time of the year, because it will make you feel good. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley, and I also purchased my own copy from Barnes and Noble. 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.”
With romance galore, I would rate this book G for general audiences who enjoy romance. Mostly clean and definitely entertaining!Author Bio: Susan Mallery is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of novels about the relationships that define women’s lives—family, friendship, romance. Library Journal says, “Mallery is the master of blending emotionally believable characters in realistic situations,” and readers seem to agree—40 million copies of her books have sold worldwide. Her warm, humorous stories make the world a happier place to live.
Susan grew up in California and now lives in Seattle with her husband. She’s passionate about animal welfare, especially that of the two ragdoll cats and adorable poodle who think of her as mom.
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 PG-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.”
The themes in this Christian romantic suspense are some of my favorites, including trusting God after turning away from Him and letting go of the past in order to forge a better future. Ainsley is an investigative ranger and returns to her hometown of Natchez in order to work on the murder of a pregnant teen. No sooner does she arrive than her elderly aunt is attacked in her own home and the woman’s family diaries are missing. When Ainsley realizes that her life is in danger, she is helped by her former love interest, Lincoln Steele, a man who wants to keep her safe but is not sure of his own abilities. This is a well-written book with plenty of suspense and some simmering romance in the background. The sub-plots are Ainsley’s aunt and her missing diaries and the murdered teen. The main plot is the danger that Ainsley is facing daily from various killers who want her dead and will stop at nothing to make it happen. I enjoyed the various viewpoints presented, especially getting to read what the killer was thinking and doing during several intervals in the book. I liked getting that glimpse into the mind of the villain and trying to guess what his next step would be. I really liked the big surprise twist at the end that I did not see coming at all! The characters are well-developed and realistic and the plot was fast-paced and filled with danger and action. There were also a lot of descriptive details about the setting that made the book memorable. Although this is the third book in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone and thoroughly enjoyed by anyone who likes brilliantly written suspense and propulsive mysteries. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books via Netgalley as part of the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Clean Christian romantic suspense For information about the author and her other books, please visit her website at http://www.ptbradley.com
This engrossing book is available now wherever books are sold. Here are some purchase links for you:
The story of Avery, the marriage therapist, and her clients Marissa and Matthew is bone-chillingly good. Avery is practicing therapy in what she calls her ten-step plan and has been very successful at it. She is also hiding secrets about her past and dealing with some unscrupulous people who are determined to destroy her career if not her life. Marissa contacts Avery for help when she realizes that her marriage is going downhill fast and she wants to save it. The best thing that someone could have told me before I read this book is that all is not as it seems. There are layers of deception that are peeled away slowly and methodically. The plot is so well written that it immediately pulled me into Avery’s troubles as well as Marissa and Matthew’s. The characters were totally well-fleshed out and very complex. Just when I thought I knew them well, there was another revelation about their past. This was the kind of book that was entertaining as well as thought-provoking. I enjoyed the read, but it also made me think about how well we actually know someone. Polly, Marissa’s helper in her store, was irritating at first, then more irritating and ultimately understandable. There were a lot of nuances and red herrings throughout the book that made the ending mostly a surprise for me, something I really enjoy in books since I’m such a mystery buff. I highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy great plots, fantastic characterization and pondering what an outcome will be. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Sarah is the mother of three boys, which explains why she wrote part of her debut novel at Chuck E. Cheese. Seriously. Sarah penned her first book, Miscellaneous Tales and Poems, at the age of 10. When publishers failed to jump upon this literary masterpiece (hey, all the poems rhymed!) Sarah followed up by sending them a sternly-worded letter on Raggedy Ann stationery. Sarah still has that letter, and carries it to New York every time she has meetings with her publisher, as a reminder that dreams do come true. Please visit www.sarahpekkanen.com
This book will release on March 8, 2022, but it is available for pre-order now. Purchase Links:
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for providing an ARC for me to read and review. This complicated book had me enthralled and giving the characters advice because I got so involved in the story.
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 sexscenes. 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
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.
Hope Fischer is on a quest to find out what happened to her sister Faith since she doesn’t believe the story about her suicide. Headed to an off-the-grid town named Benediction, she has to be saved from drowning by a rogue intelligence agent named Gage Graham. Gage is off the grid and hiding and promises to help Hope find out what really happened to Faith. Together, these two define romantic suspense. They fall into and out of danger throughout the course of their undercover investigation, making the book a fast-paced and exhilarating read. I really enjoyed the fire and determination in the main characters as well as the plot that was non-stop action. I also liked getting to know the sheriff of the nearby town. Ryan was a hero nursing his own broken heart but willing to risk his life for fighting for what’s right. The grit and sheer courage of Gage and Hope led to several times when I’m pretty sure I was holding my breath or at least gasping. Intense intrigue and sweet romance combine to make this book a winner for me! 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. 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 PG due to content.
About the Author
Juno Rushdan draws from real-life inspiration as a former U.S. Air Force Intelligence Officer to craft sizzling romantic thrillers. However, you won’t find any classified leaks here. Her stories are pure fiction about kick-ass heroes and strong heroines fighting for their lives as well as their happily-ever-after.
Although Juno is a native New Yorker, wanderlust has taken her across the globe. Fortunately, she is blessed with a husband who shares her passion for travel, movies, and fantastic food. She’s visited more than twenty different countries and has lived in England and Germany. Her favorite destination for relaxation is the Amalfi Coast, Italy for its stunning seascape, cliffside lemon groves, terraced vineyards, amazing pasta, and to-die-for vino.
When she’s not writing, Juno loves spending time with her family. Exercise is not her favorite thing to do, but she squeezes some in since chocolate and red wine aren’t calorie-free.
She currently resides in Virginia with her supportive hubby, two dynamic children, and spoiled rescue dogs. Check her out on Instagram, Facebook or follow her on Twitter or BookBub. She loves to connect with readers!
Many thanks to Harlequin for the opportunity to read and review this book and for the introduction to a new-to-me author. Talented author and fast-paced book. Get it today!
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 storyFor information about the author and her work, please go to her website at http://www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
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This is a brilliantly written contemporary romance with likable characters and a constant undercurrent of humor. Rory Perez inherits a food truck from her aunt, but she has no clue how to actually cook Mexican food. Nevertheless, she tries to make it a success for the sake of Grady and Nicole, the real chef and her best friend. Having the money she needs to keep the food truck running is Rory’s priority, so she is more than a little incensed when one of the town’s wealthiest residents asks for cooking lessons and then becomes her rival in the cooking contest. Jude Worthington is a lawyer but wants to be a cook and own his own food truck. There are some really funny scenes between these two as Rory who is clueless tries to teach Jude how to cook. The text messages between the two are priceless and chuckle-worthy. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this story of two stubborn people who have to find themselves before they can find each other. With themes of self-acceptance, forgiveness and trust, this is a book not to be missed by those who enjoy clean contemporary romance, with a dash of cilantro, a few tears and a whole lot of smiles. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via Netgalley since I am a member 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.”
Sweet, clean contemporary romance suitable for anyone who enjoys a good love storyPhoto and bio from author’s website at http://www.betsystamant.com
What a lovely and heartwarming Christmas story! Hannah is a dog trainer and the guardian of her deceased sister’s twin toddlers. She is hiding a secret about the father of the girls, but she promised her sister not to tell. Her promise ends up causing her a lot of problems with Luke Hutcheson, her neighbor and the girls’ biological uncle. The story itself is a simple one, with secrets and romance and children who just need to be accepted and loved. The addition is that the adults in this story need to find acceptance and love, too. Although the ending is predictable, it was such a sweet read getting there. With dogs added to the mix, it was a perfect story that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was entertaining as well as inspirational to read how the relationships developed with the people and with God. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from 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.”
A sweet, clean romance suitable for all ages who enjoy romanceAbout the Author: 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. Learn more at www.leetobinmcclain.com.
Hannah Antonicelli walked out of the Rescue Haven Learn-and-Play and flopped down on the bench that ran along the wall of the red barn.
“Cold for sitting outside, isn’t it?” Her friend Gabby wrapped her heavy parka more tightly around herself before sitting beside Hannah. Despite the fact that she and her husband oversaw all Rescue Haven’s programs—the dog rescue, the after-school program for at-risk boys and the childcare center—Gabby always had time to stop and chat.
And Gabby was right: November in rural Ohio wasn’t sit-outside weather. Wind whisked across the neighboring cornfields, rustling the dry, light brown stalks, carrying with it the faint, clean smell of oncoming snow. “I just need a minute before I start with the dogs,” Hannah said.
“Take a minute! Take an hour, or the whole morning off, if you need. It’s a great thing you’re doing, providing a home for Marnie’s girls.”
“The Learn-and-Play is the only possible way I’ll manage, so thank you for accepting the twins on short notice.” And she didn’t want to take advantage of Gabby’s generosity by skimping on her part-time job as the Rescue Haven dog trainer. What with everything that had happened, she’d already taken too much time off. Not to mention the fact that Gabby was pregnant and didn’t need extra stress. “Let me know if they need anything or get upset.”
Caring for her sister’s eighteen-month-old twin girls had been the right thing to do when Marnie had died of complications after a drug overdose two weeks ago. The desperate phone call from her estranged older sister had shaken Hannah’s world at its foundation. She and Mom had rushed to Marnie’s side and instantly agreed to care for the twins they barely knew.
Which meant that, for now, Hannah was back in her childhood home. Mom’s house had plenty of space, a big yard with a tire swing and was close to Rescue Haven.
Anyway, until they got the twins’ lives in order and their schedules figured out, it was going to take two of them to manage things. Being in the same house was just easier.
Mom was busy trying to keep her struggling bakery afloat during hard times. She was also grief-stricken and guilt-ridden over Marnie’s death—not in any shape to be a primary caregiver. Whereas Hannah… Hannah was more angry at her sister than anything else. Marnie had neglected her babies. She’d caused terrible pain to their mother. And she’d entrusted Hannah with a secret that wasn’t going to be easy to keep.
The blond, curly-haired twins had instantly become Hannah’s priority in life. She had to raise them right, and she would. She yawned. The twins hadn’t slept well last night—again—and she was just so tired…
She might have actually dozed off for a few seconds, and when she opened her eyes, she felt like she was dreaming. “Who’s that?” she asked Gabby as she stared at the movie-star-handsome, rugged man striding toward them.
“You don’t recognize him? That’s Luke Hutchenson.”
Hannah’s stomach lurched. “When did he come back to town?”
Many thanks to Harlequin for the opportunity to read and review this book. It is amazingly uplifting and just right for the season of loving and giving!
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:
Many thanks to Revell for allowing me to participate in the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to read and review Christina fiction that I can recommend to all readers!
Get this book today and get wrapped up in a thrilling romantic suspense!
Vickie's Book Nook and Meditation Corner 