Review of SERIAL BURN by Lynette Eason

On January 22, 2025 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book Review2 Comments

About the Book

ISBN-13:9780800741211 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:01/21/2025. Series:Lake City Heroes , #3 Pages:320

She’s out for justice. But the arsonist she’s tracking is out for retribution.

Now the fire marshal of Lake City, Jesslyn McCormick is determined to find the person who started the fire that robbed her of her family when she was just seven years old. As the twentieth anniversary of the tragedy approaches, a string of fires—including at Jesslyn’s church—brings up all those old feelings and offers new evidence.

Because church fires are considered a hate crime, FBI Special Agent Nathan Carlisle is called in to work with local law enforcement. Nathan has his own past—one he’d prefer not to revisit. And focusing on helping Jesslyn track down the arsonist is a great distraction.

As both the case and the chemistry between Jesslyn and Nathan heat up, memories will come flooding in from the past to bump up against hopes for the future. And when Jesslyn comes face-to-face with her worst nightmare, she’ll have to confront her fears and rely on Nathan and her community of friends in order to survive.

My Thoughts

The latest book in the Lake City Heroes series is one that held me enthralled from the first page until the satisfying conclusion. I was sympathetic with Jesslyn McCormick and her intense desire to find the arsonist who killed her entire family when she was a young girl. As a fire marshal, Jesslyn is adamant about tracking down the arsonist who wreaked such havoc in her young life and is certain that the new fires being set around the town all relate to the perp who killed her family. Along with FBI special agent Nathan Carlisle, Jesslyn faces insurmountable odds and increasing danger as the fires keep getting more and more personal and the threat to her is obvious. Calling on their friends in Lake City to help keep Jesslyn safe, Nathan finds himself attracted to her but she is not ready for a relationship and avoids his advances. The romance progresses methodically, but the suspense continues to build as Jesslyn is getting closer to discovering the truth about her father’s past and the fire that led to the destruction of her family. I really enjoyed the head-spinning twists and the complex plot that included clues from the past woven into the current events. The suspense was compelling and the characters were dynamic and realistically flawed. With faith as a firm foundation and part of the story, this was an enjoyable and entertaining clean read with multiple layers and a fast-moving plot that was believable and satisfyingly puzzling, with clues that led me to keep guessing until the final reveal. Although this is the third book in a series, it can definitely be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell as part of the advance review team for 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.”

Christian Fiction with Intense Suspense, Rated PG

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 awares 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.

Purchase Links:

bit.ly/3PnbtsI (Baker Book House)

bit.ly/4h3A1T8 (Barnes and Noble)

amzn.to/4gVR2iN (Amazon)

bit.ly/3DIQbTE (Target)

bit.ly/4j62t8L (Christian Book)

apple.co/406r7O9 (Apple Books)

bit.ly/4gY0zFt (Books-a-Million)

bit.ly/40lMfRR (Kobo)

bit.ly/4fMQkD0 (Powell’s)

bit.ly/4j5ouo8 (Google Play Store)

https://adbl.co/4a2p3ek (Audible)

It is my sincere wish that you all enjoy this book as much as I did! Lynette is a talented author who uses faith as the firm foundation for all of her novels.

Review of DEADLY REVENGE by Patricia Bradley

On November 9, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Promo, Book ReviewLeave a comment

About the Book

Product Details

ISBN-13:9780800741648 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:11/05/2024 Series:Pearl River , #3 Pages:400

Deputy Jenna Hart has only been working in her sleepy hometown of Pearl Springs for seven months when city officials begin to be targeted by a killer. Twenty years ago, the construction of a dam caused people to lose their land to eminent domain. That wound has not healed with time, and someone bearing a grudge is clearly set on revenge. With the former mayor of Pearl Springs now running for the US Senate, Jenna will have to call in backup to ensure his protection.

That’s where Agent Maxwell Anderson comes in. He and Jenna used to work together in the Chattanooga Police Department, and there was even a smoldering fire of attraction. Now they team up to track down the killer before a big political rally that promises to bring not only the former mayor into the crosshairs but hundreds of civilians as well.

As the sparks of romance reignite and the threads of the investigation get tangled when another suspect comes into play, Jenna and Max will have to draw on all of their skills to stay alive and prevent the wave of disaster poised to hit the community of Pearl Springs. The question is, can either of them fully trust that the other has their back?

My Thoughts

Romantic suspense doesn’t get any better than this book with its second chance at love trope and danger running rampant in the small town of Pearl Springs. When Jenna Hart left Chattanooga under a cloud of suspicion, she found a new place and a new job as a deputy in Pearl Springs, back home where her roots are. But when local men are murdered, her refuge isn’t safe anymore. TBI agent Max Anderson comes to town to protect a Senate candidate and finds out that the threats against him are real, but all is not as it seems. The deceit is in layers in this book and unravels carefully and enticingly. There is a subplot about Jenna’s being endangered by her past and the two plots are woven together seamlessly. I really enjoyed the dynamics between the main characters and the realistic dialogue with the secondary characters. I especially liked the mystery that was gripping and the tension that escalated as danger got closer to Jenna and Max. The story is expertly crafted and addictive. By the end of the first chapter, I was totally engaged in the story and wanted to keep reading to find out what the secrets were and why so many people were involved in keeping it. The author teasingly reveals the details slowly and in a perfect way to keep me engrossed in the plot and the lives of the characters. Perfectly paced and with realistic and unique characters, this book is one not to miss that captivated me as I pieced together the clues right along with the characters.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, 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.”

Rated PG, Christian Fiction with Intense Suspense

About the Author

Patricia Bradley is the author of Counter Attack and Fatal Witness, as well as the Natchez Trace Park Rangers, Memphis Cold Case, and Logan Point series. Bradley is the winner of an Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, a Selah Award, and a Daphne du Maurier Award; she was a Carol Award finalist; and three of her books were included in anthologies that debuted on the USA Today bestseller list. She makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at PTBradley.com

Purchase Links:

With a heart filled with gratitude for Revell and their wonderful fiction that takes me away for hours to an imaginary world where I enjoy meeting new characters and trying to solve the mystery!

Review of UNFORGOTTEN by Shelley Shepard Gray

On November 6, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review3 Comments

About the Book

Product Details

ISBN-13:9780800746032 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:11/05/2024 Pages:304

Even though Bethanne Hostetler has found some peace seven years after an attempted assault and the accidental death of Peter Miller, she is still haunted by the memory. When her Englisher cousin, Candace—who has just been crowned Miss Crittenden County—reveals that she has a stalker, all of Bethanne’s old fears come rushing back.

Jay Byler had once been Peter’s best friend, and the fact that he did not protect Bethanne that fateful night has haunted him ever since. To make matters worse, she continues to avoid him—even as he continues to love her. Jay can only hope and pray that one day Bethanne will see the person he is today and not the boy he used to be.

As Candace’s stalker becomes bolder, Officer Ryan Mulany becomes her escort to various events. He knows he should only think of Candace as a job, but the more time they spend together, the harder it gets to maintain professional distance. And when everyone’s worst fears are realized, all four must work together to prevent another tragedy before time runs out and another innocent person is hurt.

My Thoughts

This book tells the story of two cousins who are dealing with relationship issues. Bethanne has a fear of being around people, and she is just coming out of her shell after an assault by her former boyfriend. She is still not totally comfortable in public, but she is getting better. Her cousin Candace competed for and won the Miss Crittenden County Contest. But Candace’s issue is that she has a stalker, so a new deputy named Ryan Milanese appoints himself to be her chaperone and body guard to all of her events. The two cousins are making progress with trusting others when the unthinkable happens. This is an Amish romance with a lot of suspense included in the story. The suspense is compelling and the characters are realistically portrayed and very easy to empathize with. I enjoyed the pace of the story, which I considered moderate until the big conflict. Then, the pace raced at a breakneck speed to the conclusion. The author does a good job of pointing out the differences between Bethanne’s lifestyle and Candace’s since Candace was not raised Amish but Bethanne was. I really enjoyed the way the girls leaned on each other and learned how to accept help from others. The story is engaging, the characters are dynamic and I highly recommend this book for those looking for Amish romantic suspense that is definitely Christian fiction without graphic details.
I received an e-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. I also purchased my own copy to add to my collection of books by this author.

Rated PG due to content about a stalker and a previous assault

About the Author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray writes Amish and Inspirational romances for Simon & Schuster, and Kensington, Harlequin, and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing. With over a million books in print, and translated into more than a dozen languages, her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists.

Shelley has been featured in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations. Publishers Weeklycalls her Walnut Creek series “A slow-burning, enjoyable romance… Embedded in this quaint story is a poignant message about the importance of community, compassion, and doing what’s right rather than what’s easy.”

Shelley has hosted several well-attended ‘Girlfriend Getaways’ for Amish reading fans. Her most recent Girlfriend Getaway, hosted with bestselling novelists Amy Clipston and Suzanne Woods Fisher in Sugarcreek, Ohio, was filmed by BuzzFeed and highlighted on NetFlix’s Follow Thisepisode on the popularity of Amish fiction.

Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned her bachelor’s degree in English literature and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She now lives in southern Colorado near her grown children, walks her dachshunds, bakes too much, and writes full time.

Purchase Links

Many thanks to Revell Fiction for the ARC to read and review.

Review of THE COLOR OF HOME by Kit Tosello

On October 22, 2024 By vickleaIn Book Review1 Comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780800772697 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group Publication date:09/24/2024 Pages:352

Audrey Needham, Bay Area interior designer to the rich and pretentious, is down to her last nerve. Her boss is impossible to please, her future is in jeopardy, and her great-aunt Daisy needs support as her husband descends into Alzheimer’s.

When Daisy enlists Audrey’s help preparing for a move to assisted living, Audrey risks her career to return to the idyllic small town of Charity Falls, Oregon, the summer stomping grounds of her childhood. But Charity Falls was also the place that broke her heart when her father was killed in a tragic fire at the Sugar Pine Inn thirteen years ago.

Despite Audrey’s intent to avoid emotional entanglement, the pull of home is hard to resist. Something should be done about the deteriorating inn. A local girl with an incarcerated father needs a friend. And handsome local do-gooder Cade Carter is coloring Audrey all shades of uncertain.

My Thoughts

I am absolutely delighted when I discover a debut novel that sets my skin to tingling and my heart burning with a desire to share this great story with others. Such is the case with this novel with it’s intriguing title and beautiful cover! The story of Audrey and her quest for something better in life besides a demanding boss and clients is well told and engaging. When Audrey leaves her posh job in the Bay Area to travel to a little town called Charity Falls, she doesn’t expect to stay there long. In fact, her plan is a couple of weeks to help her great-Aunt Daisy prepare to live in assisted living with her great-Uncle Dean who is suffering from Alzheimer’s. What Audrey did not expect was to meet a young girl named Paige who desperately needs someone to love her and care that her dad is incarcerated without judging her. What Audrey was surprised to find in this little town was the peace she had long sought since her father died in a fire in that same little town. This book was filled with delightful surprises, family relationships and faith that was the foundation of the story. I enjoyed the plot with its moderately paced plot, perfect for the tranquil setting of Charity Falls. I especially enjoyed getting to know all of the characters who lent charm and realism to the town, making sure that Audrey was quickly caught up into the rhythm of life there. The underlying message of forgetting the past and pressing onward toward a better future was one that was not unexpected but was one that showered hope throughout the pages of the story. This was a story that begs to be read and enjoyed and shared with others because it is a timeless story of resilience, roots and restoration.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from 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.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kit Tosello is an award-winning writer of small-town contemporary fiction with a big heart, as well as inspirational essays and devotionals. With her eye trained on the beauty hiding in plain sight all around us, she arranges words with tenderness, humor, and, ultimately, hope. When not writing, Kit can be found in the loose tea shop she operates with her husband, exploring the great Pacific Northwest, or enjoying the “great indoors”—bookstores & libraries 😉. Most likely with a matcha latte in hand.

Purchase Links

Review of OVER THE EDGE by Irene Hannon

On October 7, 2024 By vickleaIn blog tour, Book Review1 Comment

ABOUT THE BOOK

ISBN-13:9780800741891 Publisher:Baker Publishing Group. Publication date:10/01/2024. Series:Undaunted Courage , #2. Pages:368

Trauma survivor Lindsey Barnes hasn’t fully recovered from the ordeal that almost took her life, and now she’s in the middle of another crisis. Not only is she the sole witness in a high-profile murder case, but someone is also pushing her to question her sanity.

Police detective Jack Tucker doesn’t know what to make of her story, especially when her elusive enemy leaves no evidence behind to lend credence to her claims. Yet the more he gets to know the appealing personal chef, the more he’s convinced someone is targeting not only her sanity, but her life.

And unless they can figure out who is behind the campaign to undermine her credibility, a murderer could slip away—leaving more than one body in his or her wake.

My Thoughts

The suspense starts at the beginning of the book, ramps up its intensity as the story continues and ends with a surprise revelation that includes even more suspense. This is a perfectly well-written romantic suspense, with characters that are relatable and flawed as well as totally believable. Lindsey Barnes is a personal chef who is in the wrong place at the wrong time and ends up being the only eyewitness to a home invasion murder. Detective Jack Tucker is the lead investigator who has difficulty at first believing Lindsey’s account of what happened and presses her to remember more details so that he has more to go on on order to catch a killer. The story continues with part of Lindsey’s backstory and why she doesn’t particularly trust the police and especially Jack. Fascinating details here! There is a secondary story of a handyman who was at the site of the murder and who is Jack’s first suspect. The author does an expert job of weaving the storylines together, including Lindsey’s need for counseling, her past trauma and Jack’s past as well. This book was hard to put down and an engrossing read with a compelling mystery that begged to be solved. I must confess that I love mystery and suspense and read them a lot, but the surprise revelation in this one had me gasping and loving the story even more. With a fast pace, characters who beg for a good resolution and twists that I never saw coming, this moves up to the top of my list of best romantic suspense books this year.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review 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.”

Rated G, Christian Fiction, Romantic Suspense

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Irene Hannon is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than sixty-five contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. She is also a three-time winner of the RITA award—the “Oscar” of romance fiction—from Romance Writers of America and is a member of that organization’s elite Hall of Fame.

Her many other awards include National Readers’ Choice, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers’ Best, Carol, HOLT Medallion, and Reviewers’ Choice from RT Book Reviews magazine, which also honored her with a Career Achievement award for her entire body of work. In addition, she is a two-time Christy award finalist.

Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.

Irene, who holds a BA in psychology and an MA in journalism, juggled two careers for many years until she gave up her executive corporate communications position with a Fortune 500 company to write full-time.

When not writing, she loves to sing, travel, hike, garden, cook, spend time with family, and go on impromptu dates with her own romantic hero.

She and her husband make their home in Missouri.

PURCHASE LINKS

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 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 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.