Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Dangerous Illusions by Irene Hannon


 " You may be sure that your sin will find you out." -Numbers 32:23








Hey Readers, Here is my last "Must Read" from my November collection ( finally, now I can move on to my December/Christmas books) Dangerous Illusions is a fast paced, edge of your seat book by Irene Hannon. I would recommend this book if you: 
  • have read any books by Irene Hannon,
  •  like to read books similar to books by Lynette Eason and Dani Pettrey,
  •  like to watch tv shows like Blue Bloods and/or Person of Interest,
  •  just want to read a new book!
Well on to the story,

Trish Bailey is beyond stressed. She is trying to deal with a demanding job, take care of her sick mother and is still grieving the deaths of her husband and her father who were killed in a tragic car accident two years before. When she discovers that her mother died in her sleep one night after she returned from a date with her friend Matt, Trish is torn. She thought her mother's health was improving but now... Unfortunately, the paramedics call it a "suspicious death" and the CSU (Crime Scene Unit) come to investigate and she discovers that she is the number one suspect in her mother's murder. Her friend Matt suggests that it's possible that since she is under a lot of stress and forgetting things, that she may have miscounted her mother's medicine which in her mother's condition would have been fatal. Trish is shocked! She knows that she never would have messed up with her mother's medicine... But she had been forgetting things lately. ( like forgetting to turn the stove off, forgetting to lock the front door). She is feeling like the weight of the world is on her shoulders, with not a friend in the world ( because, Seriously??? you're friend is going to accuse you of killing your own mother?!?) But then she saw Detective Colin Flynn and for some strange reason, she trust him because he looks and seems familiar, like a friend. Detective Colin Flynn is not certain what to think about his latest case and the attractive suspect he has interviewed. A requirement for his job is to be able to read people and Trish Bailey seems genuinely distraught about losing her mom, But if her mother’s death is ruled a homicide, then she will be the prime suspect. While the autopsy report is being completed, Colin looks into Trish and her family's background. He is not surprised to see that they were/are a very wealthy family that loved to give back to their community. The more time he spends with Trish he becomes certain that she did not hurt her mother, so the better question is who had something to gain by her mothers death? Is Trish in their way and if so, how far will they go to get what they want. With danger closing in on all sides and friends are not as they appear, Will Colin be able to keep Trish safe or will he be too late? 


What did I think?
So this is book one of the brand new series Code of Honor ( of course by Irene Hannon) and it was great! Some parts in the story were downright creepy but nothing was graphic or morbid.  There are a ton of twists and turns so it is hard to keep track of who is good and who is the enemy but the plot was not confusing.  I loved that Mac McGregor from Irene Hannon's previous series Men of Valor is a side character.  There is also a bit of romance in the book but not much, just enough to weave into the plot. Overall, It is an amazing suspense novel and I cannot wait until the next book in the series. Overall I rate the book 4 out of 5 stars****


Hey, Don't forget to check out this book or some of her other books, She writes mostly suspense but also some Romance novels, so if you want to check them out, Here is the link: 
http://www.irenehannon.com/books.html



 I would like to thank Revell , A division of Baker Publishing Group for allowing me to review this book in exchange for a free copy, I was not required to write a favorable review, just an honest one.




Thursday, November 30, 2017

Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano

Harrison hoped that his friendship with her would become something more...
 but he was unprepared for the outlandish escapades that seem to follow the lovely, anything-but-ordinary Gertrude.

Hey Readers,
Its Finally Here!
I have been waiting for this book to come out for months and I am so excited to tell you that my second "Must Read" for November is by one of my favorite authors Jen Turano!

I would recommend reading Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano if you:

  • like the humor in books like Karen Witemeyer's or the drama in stories by Sarah E. Ladd. 
  • have read the previous books in the Apart from the Crowd series  ( or any books by Jen Turano) 
  • want to read a story full of laugh out loud moments
  • just want to read a great book 
So on to the story,
Gertrude Cadwalader may have a ordinary job as a paid companion but with her employer being the eccentric Mrs Davenport, Her life is anything but ordinary. The story starts with Gertrude attending her best friend's engagement party aboard Harrison Sinclair's yacht. She should be enjoying herself and celebrating with her friend but instead she finds herself lurking below the deck because Mrs Davenport disappeared and she only disappeared with she was doing something of a suspicious nature. As she was looking in the what appeared to be the study, she gets stuck in a awkward position on the sofa because the wires in her bustle (Mrs Davenport's latest creation, a bustle made out of a birdcage) became stuck in the fabric of the sofa.  Another society member tried to blackmail Gertrude saying that she became stuck because she was attempting to steal the painting nearest the sofa but thankfully Gertrude's best friend Permilia came to her rescue. But unfortunately, once she was rescued from that sticky situation she discovered to her horror that Mrs Davenport and Harrison had seen her predicament. What follows is a hilarious exchange between Harrison, Permilia, Mrs Davenport and Harrison's sister ( but I can't tell you anymore then that because I do not want to ruin the story.
Anyway, Harrison Sinclair is not sure why he is attracted to Gertrude, He has always said that he was not the marrying kind of person. But ever since he saw her dyed orange ( a situation from the first book) and he noticed that she was not ashamed of letting Mrs Davenport practice her "fashion designs" ( even if they were outrageous) He wanted to become her friend. Not in a romantic sense, just a good friend. or so he tries to convince himself.
But when Gertrude is accused of stealing several valuable items from his yacht while at the party he immediately comes to her defense. He knows enough about her character to know that the accusations are ridiculous even though his defense will put him in the middle of a horrible misunderstanding between Gertrude and his mother.  After that matter was settled, Harrison decides that he wants his relationship with Gertrude to become something more so he goes to a great source for his romantic ideas... His sisters romance novels.
But will Harrison's romantic attempts show Gertrude how he feels or will he ruin everything by not telling her how he feels?

Guess you will have to read the book to find out!


So what did I think? 
First this is book two of the Apart from the Crowd series but though it is part of a series, you could definitely read it as a standalone. I love everything about the book and I LOVE the relationship between Harrison and Gertrude, that it had so many ups and downs . I will say that the names in the series are a bit unusual ( Gertrude, Temperance, Permilia???) But because they are unusual, it makes them more memorable. I really enjoyed reading about Harrison and Asher's  ( Permilia's  fiancĂ© ) attempts at understanding the female mind by reading Harrison's sisters romance novels.  ( it was absolutely hilarious! I actually laughed out loud at some of their antics) and when they actually did some of the things the heroes in the books did, I almost died laughing. Overall this is a wonderful book filled with love, hope, forgiveness and a bit of humor. I would rate this book 5 out of  5 stars *****


Hey Readers! I just found out that the next book in the series is coming out in July 2018!!!
( and it looks amazing!!! ) So if you want to check out this book or any of her other books, here is the link;
http://jenturano.com/books/


Happy Reading :)




  I would like to thank Bethany House for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy. I was not asked to write a favorable review, Just a honest one.

Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris



 
 What happens when six girls are missing and every clue leads to a dead end?






Hey Readers,
I cannot believe that Christmas is in 24 Days!!! 
Wow, the year is flying by but in case you have time to sit with a cup of hot tea and check out some new books, I would like to tell you about the first book on my three November “Must Reads”, Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris.

Vanishing Point is the exciting, long awaited conclusion to the Nikki Boyd files. I would recommend this book if you:
  • Have read any of the previous books in the series or by Lisa Harris.
  • Like to read books by Dani Pettrey or Irene Hannon.
  • Like to read a Criminal suspense story with LOTS of twists and turns.
  • Just want to read an interesting book!
So on to the story,
Vanishing point is the story of Garrett Addison who is a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. During his first week on the job his team is called to investigate the murder of a young girl who was found in the middle of the woods.  They had no leads until they discover a Polaroid photo of the girl near the crime scene. The picture now links the murder of Julia Kerrigan with two other disappearances that all have that same piece of evidence.  Because this may be the work of a serial killer, The FBI brings in Special Agent Jordan Lambert to assist in the investigation.  Unfortunately Garrett was once in love with Jordan so working with her may present a challenge. But he is determined not to let her get to him. He just has to focus on this case. 
---Time Jump--- 
Unfortunately it has been several months and now they found another girl murdered  by Julia's killer now known as the Angel Abductor. Garrett blames himself for the death of the latest victim Marissa, because he followed a lead and because of it , he did not get to her in time. The guilt weighs down on Garrett  until he decides that law enforcement is not for him anymore because he could not bear it if anyone else got hurt because of him. But just because he had given up, does not mean the killer has.
Jordan cannot believe that Garrett has given up, ever since she met him at the academy, he was always her rock. Even when her faith was shaken, he was always there for her even if she was not there for him…
But now another girl has gone missing and time is running out to find her. It seems like the killer is taunting them because he keeps leaving subtle clues for Garrett and Jordan, But when Jordan disappears, will Garrett be able to find her and save the Angel Abductors next victim?                                                                                                                                                                                          
 Or will it be too late? 


What did I think? 
Vanishing point is both a prequel and a conclusion all wrapped up into one. It is book 4 of the Nikki Boyd Files series but it gives a different perspective then the previous books. Previously the Nikki Boyd have focused on Nikki and her search for her sister ( who was abducted) but this book had Nikki and her Sisters disappearance as small parts of a bigger picture. This book was a edge of your seat, nail biting story with so many twists and turns that it was hard to keep them all straight. Overall it was a very interesting/exciting story and even though there were several abductions mentioned, there was nothing graphic. It was bittersweet to finish this series but I am excited to see what Mrs Lisa comes up with next! Overall I rate the book 4.5 Stars out of 5 ****


Hey Don't forget to check out this book or her other AMAZING books by clicking on the link below:
http://www.lisaharriswrites.com/books/


:) Happy Reading!


I would like to thank Mrs Lisa Harris and Revell ( A division of Baker Publishing Group) for allowing me to read and review this book. I was not paid or asked to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. 

Tuesday, October 31, 2017

Too Far Down by Mary Connealy

With Danger Drawing Ever Closer... The Boden Clan Risk Losing Their Ranch Forever.


Hey Readers, Happy Fall.
Wow, I cannot believe that October will be over in just a few hours. It seems that the year is quickly coming to an end and I still have so much to do. Well even though we are busy,  we still have to make time for the little things ( like reading God's word, family, friends and of course... reading books!) and if you are looking for a new book to read this fall, I have the amazing, action-packed conclusion to The Cimarron Legacy Series by Mary Connealy! 
I would recommend Too Far Down if you: 
  • Have read any books by Mary Connealy ( especially in The Cimarron Legacy Series).
  • Have read books by Karen Witemeyer and Regina Jennings.
  • Like a good western story with a lot of action and a bit of romance. 
  • Want to read a awesome new story. 
So on to the story, 
Too Far Down is the story of Cole Boden,who is struggling to find where he belongs. He grew up in New Mexico with his family  but moved to Massachusetts with his maternal grandparents to attend college.  Because of his father's will that states that all of the Boden siblings must live at home for an entire year or else they forfeit their ranch and the family legacy, Cole is living at his family's ranch and is in charge of the family gold mines. The book starts with an explosion in the mines that traps several miners and kills 6. Cole is seriously injured but continues to help with rescuing the miners until he collapses due to a head injury. He is sure that this latest attack on his family is related to the ongoing plot to kill his family and take over their family's ranch. As the family investigates the explosions they come to the conclusion that the explosions were deliberate and the 6 miners that were killed, were killed intentionally and so the mystery deepens. Who were those men they hired and who murdered them?  Cole needs to rent the mines to 6 people he trusts so he partners with his neighbor and rents the mines to his neighbors ranch hands... It would have been perfect except one of the "ranch hands" was his neighbor Mel who he is attracted to but will not "court" because of his uncertainty about where he is going to live. 
Melanie Blake has been a friend to the Boden family for years. She is a cowgirl who is more comfortable around horses then people. She is frustrated by this growing attraction to her neighbor Cole,  because he is a refined Harvard graduate and the complete opposite of who she thought she would be attracted to.  When she arrived at the Boden mines after the explosion, she is shocked by the injuries but immediately jumps in to help. When she hears that Cole needs 6 people to rent the cabins and mines that the 6 men who died left, she immediately volunteers to stay. As the Boden family uncover clues about the people plotting against them, they find a strange link to the past. Cole's grandparents are mentioned on a note that one of the people involved in a previous attack had on them but they could not understand the remaining scribbles on the note. Cole is confused because he loved his grandparents and never wanted to think ill of them but was it possible that their hatred for his dad and his family was enough for them to try to steal their ranch away?  
Mel is determined to help the Boden's fight this deadly force and hopefully put an end to this madness, But will this latest threat be worse then anyone expects? 
In this exciting conclusion to The Cimarron Legacy, when all the hidden agendas and malicious plots are exposed, Will the Boden's be able to finally defeat this enemy or will this be the end of the family's legacy? 

Guess you will have to read the book to find out! 

So, what did I think? 
So as I mentioned before, this is the last book in the Cimarron Legacy series but it could be read as a standalone.  ( It would be best if you read all the books though because it is a fantastic story)  The story is filled with everything, romance, danger and even a bit of humor. I love the overall plot and enjoyed reading about Mel and Cole's relationship, But my favorite part was how all of the events in the series started with their father's will and even though it seemed annoying and horrible at the time, It started a chain reaction that blessed every single person in the family.  To sum the whole story up I will quote Cole in the later part of the book 
"Because of you (father), we were together to face the trouble as one, which made all the difference. You didn't punish us with that last will and testament-- you saved us" - Cole Boden, Too Far Down by Mary Connealy.                                                                               
 I am both excited to have read the book and saddened because it is the end to an amazing series, Overall I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars. *****


Hey-
Don't forget to check out all of Mary Connealy's books, Here is the link!
http://maryconnealy.com/



If you want to check out this series, but are unsure if you would like it, The prequel book to this series is FREE!!! 
Here is the link to download her free ebook, The Boden Birthright
http://maryconnealy.com/the-boden-birthright/





Happy Reading :)



  I would like to thank Bethany House for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy. I was not asked to write a favorable review, Just a honest one.

Monday, October 2, 2017

Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley


"If he took the card and saw my face when I put the card on the desk, Then he knows who the Phantom Hawk is." - Kelsey Allen-Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley





Hey Readers,
Here is book three of my Fall "Must Reads" and it is probably my favorite of the three books I have showed you ( so far anyway, there are some awesome books coming out later this month) Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley is a intriguing " Who did it?" Romantic Suspense novel set in beautiful downtown Memphis.
I would recommend this book if you:

  • Like any of Patricia Bradley's books or have read the first book in the  Memphis Cold Case series "Justice Delayed".
  • Like to solve mysteries. 
  • Like to read books by Lynette Eason and/or Lisa Harris.
  • Want to read a intriguing Romantic Suspense story with twists and turns. 
  • Just want to check out a new book or author.

So here is the story 
Justice Buried is the story of Kelsey Allen who is trying to get her newly started Security Consulting business up and running.  Since she is an experienced rock climber and a "white-hat" hacker, She approaches a business and asks permission to break into the company to show them any weaknesses in their security. She is hired to check out the security of the Turner Accounting services building downtown. So one night she climbs the 14 floor building and slips in through a open window and leaves her card on the desk to let them know that the "Phantom Hawk" had infiltrated their security. But as Kelsey was leaving the building she sees a silhouette of a man in a office below. She went to investigate when the silhouette turned and she heard the sound of a gun and realized the man was shooting at her! She quickly climbed to the roof and hid behind a garbage can praying that the man would not see her.  She makes it out of the building and safely home but she is still wondering who shot at her? 
Kelsey is hired shortly after for another job, this time at the Pink Palace (a History Museum). She was to go undercover as the Museum Curator and try to find out who is stealing artifacts from the Museum Archives. Her first "mission" was to attend a benefit dinner at the museum and get to know the people who work at the museum to make a list of potential suspects. As Kelsey was learning about the dinner, she discovers that her mother set up a blind date for her with  Detective Brad Hollister who she had a crush on when they were in high school. After enjoying the dinner with Brad, Kelsey decides to test the museum's security because of the extra challenge of the people at the dinner below.  Kelsey easily broke into the building and left her card as usual but within minutes of her exiting the building, They discover that the head of security was murdered! Kelsey is worried that since she left the card, the police would think she did it. But now Kelsey has something else to worry about, It appears that the murderer saw her put the card on the desk and he knows who she is. Will Kelsey be his next target?  
Brad is surprised by Kelsey because she was always so snotty when they were in high school, but she seems so different now.  As he talks with her throughout the dinner, he finds himself oddly attracted to her but he cannot understand why.  As he starts his new position in the cold case division, he decides to look up the case on Kelsey's father who disappeared over 20 years prior. Did he really run away with several antiques from the museum or was his disappearance because of foul play?
When Kelsey's life is threatened, Brad and the other detectives join forces to protect Kelsey, but if it comes down to it.. Would Brad risk his life to save Kelsey?


What did I think?
So this is the second book in the Memphis Cold Case series but it also could be read as a stand-alone because the characters in the first book are minor/side characters in this book.  I loved the relationship between Kelsey and Brad because though it was evident that they both were developing feelings for each other, the book was not overly romantic. There was a strange part of weird modern medical practices (a Psychiatrist) but it was only for a page or two. I loved all of the twist and turns in the plot and how it kept you guessing until the very end. Overall I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars*****


Want to check out Mrs Bradley's other books?
 Here is the link for you to take a look:
http://ptbradley.com/books/



Happy Reading :)


  I would like to thank Revell , A division of Baker Publishing Group for allowing me to review this book in exchange for a free copy, I was not required to write a favorable review, just an honest one.




All She Left Behind by Jane Kirkpatrick


"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens"        -Ecclesiastes 3:1






Hey Readers, Here is Book 2 of my Fall "Must Reads"  list,  All She Left Behind by Jane Kirkpatrick.

This book is an interesting Historical/Romance story set in the Oregon Frontier around the year 1870.
I would recommend this book if you:

  • Have read any of Jane Kirkpatrick's books before. 
  • Like to read books by Janette Oke and Karen Kingsbury. 
  • Like to watch Hallmark movies, 
  • Want to read a sweet story about a unlikely romance blossoming out of adversity.



So here is the story, 
All She Left Behind is the story of Jennie Pickett, a young mother who dreams of becoming a doctor. Ever since she was young, she loved to learn about the healing properties of herbs and oils. Her husband Charles was not supportive of her dream because he saw it as an extra expense that they did not need. Jennie noticed that Charles was changing. He was not the same man that she married six years before so she decided to keep an eye on him, especially around their three year old son.  When she found him upstairs one night completely drunk and her son by himself, she decided to take matters into her own hands. She figured that there was outside influences where they were currently living that made Charles go astray so she moved her family into their own place far away from outside influences of alcohol and drugs. Jennie hoped that she would be able to help Charles beat his addiction with the help of the herbs and oils she created. Unfortunately Charles came to her one night soon after they moved in to their new home to let her know that he filed for divorce so she could be free of him and then he disappeared with all their belongings leaving Jennie and their son with nothing. Jennie refused to let her circumstances ruin her life and found a job nursing a older woman so she could support herself and her son. After some time though, her patient dies leaving Jennie to care for her friend/patient's husband. While going through her friend/patients belongings with the widowed husband, Jennie discovers that she has allowed herself to fall in love with him. After waiting a respectable amount of time, they get married and their unlikely romance blossoms into something beautiful.
Will Jennie finally be able to fulfill her dream of becoming a doctor or will she find happiness and fulfillment in having a family and a husband that loves her?

So what did I think? 
So this is the first book I have ever read by Mrs. Kirkpatrick and it was very different that I am used to. I love reading a Historical fiction story but this was more like a romance novel to me. The plot was good and the book was well written and full of historical details  You cannot do anything except admire the faith and perseverance that Jennie had especially in those days after her husband left her.  The story reminds me of a Janette Oke story or a movie that would play on Hallmark. Not quite my "cup of tea" but overall it was a good book. Overall I rate the book 3 out of 5 stars. ***


Hey, The Author has some amazing historical background research on her website including some herbal remedies, Here is the link if you want to check it out. 



Happy Reading :) 



  I would like to thank Revell , A division of Baker Publishing Group for allowing me to review this book in exchange for a free copy, I was not required to write a favorable review, just an honest one.





Crisis Shot by Janice Cantore



"I have to trust God, or nothing in this life would make sense," Oliver's words reverberated in Tess's thoughts as she drove back to the station. How did you trust someone-or something, for that matter- you couldn't really be certain was there? - Chief Tess O'Rourke, Crisis Shot by Janice Cantore





Hey Readers,
Happy October!
Don't you just love Fall? With its wonderful breezes and the beautiful colors?  I find that it is the perfect weather to sit outside with a cup of hot tea ( or coffee ) a blanket and of course a book! So if you need some ideas I am going to tell you about three fantastic new "Must Reads" for your Fall Tbr (To be read) pile.  My first "Must Read for Fall is Crisis Shot by Janice Cantore.

I would recommend this book if you:

  • Like to read "Criminal Fiction" stories.
  • Like to watch investigative Criminal TV shows like CSI or Blue Bloods. 
  • Want to read a very realistic (fiction) book that includes the struggles a Police officer may face. 
  • Just want to sit and read a interesting story. 
So here is the story, 
Crisis Shot is the story of Tess O'Rourke who is the Commander of the East Division in Long Beach, CA. She dreams of becoming the first Female Chief in Long Beach but unfortunately she was thrown a major curve ball. One night she hears a call over the radio stating that a officer was in danger and since she was close by, immediately responded. When she arrived on the scene she saw the officer being attacked by three individuals so she ordered them to put their weapons down. Two ran but one stayed and was trying to wrestle the now unconscious officer's gun off his belt.  Tess fearing for the life of both herself and the officer shot the teen, Fatally wounding him. Unfortunately there was a blogger there who took pictures and twisted the story making it look like Tess was a "Power-hungry commander" who killed a teen for no reason.  Tess was put on leave while there was a investigation into the shooting. During the days after the shooting, The blogger managed to make Tess into Public Enemy #1 and the media ate the story up. People starting rioting outside the station, Trashing the outside of her apartment complex and rioting in the streets. Tess was given a choice, Look for another job or retire early. Tess was shocked and hurt that because she did her job and saved the life of the other officer, she was potentially being told to quit or be fired.  She applied for several Police departments around the country because she wanted to stay in law enforcement but no one would give her a chance because of her reputation ( The shooting). Finally she receives word that she got the job as Chief of Police in Rogue's Hollow, OR.
Tess is determined to prove to the people of Rogue's Hollow that she has the ability to get the job done. But when they discover someone was shot, The people of the town quickly doubt her abilities. Tess finds an unlikely ally in  Deputy Steve Logan and together they try to track down Rogue's Hollow's first murderer. But then Tess's friend Anna goes missing. The townspeople are really concerned that they picked the wrong person for the job, Can Tess show them that she is not the person the media portrayed her as?
Will Tess and Logan find Anna before the Town Counsel removes her from her position?


What did I think? 
So this is the first book in the Line of Duty Series and I am looking forward to reading the next book. The story has a very realistic plot and it really makes you think about those Police Officers you see on the news in situations similar to the one Tess finds her self in. I feel selfish to write this, but I don't think I have ever thought about how those officers feel or how that one decision may have changed their lives. Anyway, This book has a very interesting plot that starts at page 1 and keeps you intrigued until the very last page.  I really enjoyed reading about Tess and her perseverance even though it seemed as if the world was against her. I also liked the friendship between her and Deputy Logan.   There is a very small bit of romance and no graphic descriptions of crimes committed.  Overall I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. ****


Interesting fact, The author is a retired Police Officer from Long Beach CA and she uses her 22 years of experience on the force to add authenticity to her stories! If you would like to check out her other books ( like Drawing Fire or Burning Proof)  you can by clicking on the link below: 



 Happy Reading :)


I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was not asked to write a favorable review, Just a honest one.


Saturday, September 30, 2017

An Inconvenient Beauty by Kristi Ann Hunter


As all of Griffith and Isabella's expectations are shaken, Can they both set aside their pride and fear long enough to claim their own Happily ever after?






Hey Readers,
Here is my "Must Read"  for September and it is by one of my favorite authors Kristi Ann Hunter!

An Inconvenient Beauty by Kristi Ann Hunter is a Historical Fiction Romance set London England in 1815. I would recommend this book if you:

  • Want to read a Historical romance story filled with humor and hidden agendas.   
  • like to read books by Julie Klassen and Roseanna M. White.
  • Like to read books set in England.
  • Have read the other books in the Hawthorne House series.
  • Just want to read a great story. 


So here is the story,
An Inconvenient Beauty is the story of Griffith Hawthorne, The Duke of Riverton. He has decided that now is the best time to find himself a wife... Logically of course. He has watched the ladies of Society for about a year and he believes he has finally found the girl for him.  Miss Frederica St. Claire is perfect, she is popular but not in the "Diamonds" category. She is pretty but not drop dead gorgeous so he won't have fight off would be suitors and she seems to possess a sweet personality. The only problem? She does seem interested in Griffith. In fact, she seems to be avoiding him.

Isabella Breckenridge  (Frederica's cousin) should be enjoying her debut in society but she cannot because she has agreed to a bargain that will benefit her family if she is successful but has dashed all her romantic dreams as well as her conscience. Now it seems like her path keeps crossing with the Duke of Riverton and as she gets to know him better, she discovers that some people in Society were not what she expected and that just makes her feel worse about what she has been doing. She is torn between the deal with her Uncle  and the feelings she has for Griffith. but regardless of what she feels, She knows that their friendship can never grow into more, not with her Uncle's hidden agenda.

Griffith finds himself running into Frederica's cousin Isabella every time he tries to talk with Frederica . Annoyed that he may have been wrong about marrying Frederica, Griffith tries to avoid Isabella because she is the reason that he is second guessing himself, But unfortunately he finds himself  intrigued by Isabella and finds that she is always on his mind. Taking the advice of his sisters, Griffith tries to talk to and dance with Isabella but finds that she always disappears. Why does she keep avoiding him when it seems evident that she has feelings for him. Griffith is also confused because he does not know if he is in love with Isabella or if he interested in her because she is breathtakingly beautiful and is a puzzle that he cannot solve?
Praying that God will guide him, Griffith determines that Isabella is the one God sent for him to marry,
now he just has to convince her.

Will they ever be able to be honest with each other or will Isabella's secret pull them apart?


So what did I think?
First, this is the final book in the Hawthorne House series and though it is sad that such a great series has ended, I am glad that Griffith was finally the main character in a book. Though the book  is part of a series, It could also be read as a stand-alone.  The book overall was wonderful. I especially enjoyed  reading about the love you see between Griffith and his siblings, How they would do anything for each other and if any of them needed help, The others would all jump to help them.  I like that the Author included humor, wit, a bit of intrigue and some things that we struggle with in our day and age in her story. Overall , the entire series is on my "Must Read " list and this book is rated 5 out of 5 stars*****

Kristi Ann Hunter is one of my favorite authors and this is one of my favorite Series, If you want to check out the book or the series, here is her link;
http://www.kristiannhunter.com/hawthornehouse


Happy Reading :)



  I would like to thank Bethany House for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy. I was not asked to write a favorable review, Just a honest one.



Saturday, August 19, 2017

The Return by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Betsy had been so determined to get back to the world she belonged in that it never once occurred to her that she might not belong in it any longer...
-The Return by Suzanne Woods Fisher




Hey Readers, I have a new book for you to check out,  The Return by Suzanne Woods Fisher is an Amish Historical Fiction story set in ( and around) Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in the year 1762. This story is unlike any Amish fiction that I have ever read before. I recommend this book if you:


  • Have read any of Suzanne Woods Fisher's books, 
  • Have read the first two books in the Amish Beginnings series
  • Like to read Amish Historical Fiction with a twist, 
  • Want to read a heartwarming story of acceptance and trying to find peace in the midst of chaos, 
  • Want to read a interesting story of a girl's survival after being kidnapped by Indians. 
  • Want to read a deeply layered novel that was inspired by true events during the tumultuous days of the prerevolutionary Pennsylvania.
Well, Here is the story: 

The Return is the story of Betsy Zook, A beautiful Amish girl who never has questioned her family's lifestyle or the love of her intended, Hans Bauer.  That is she didn't until that fateful night the Indians attacked her family and their neighbors. Taken captive after witnessing the horrible deaths of her parents and fearing for her siblings, Betsy only has her faith and the knowledge that one of her brothers also survived to keep her going. After Betsy endures the horrible and brutal walk to her fate, She finds that they took her and the other captives to replace family and friends who were killed by "white men". As she settles into her new life, she starts to get into the rhythm of Indian life and realizes how strict her life was before.  Not in a bad way, just different, Indian life was a bit more laid back and she was blessed to be treated as one of them and not as a servant or a slave. 

Meanwhile back in Lancaster County... 
Tessa Bauer has been in love with Hans since forever so she was horribly disappointed when he only seemed to pay attention to Betsy Zook. But now that she heard the news that Betsy was taken during a Indian attack, she feels like maybe now he will notice her.  No, she is not that mean to be happy about the situation that Betsy was in but she did get a glimmer of hope that now Hans will see that he was meant to be with her. The only issue is that Hans seems to have completely put his focus on finding Betsy and taking revenge on all Indians as retribution. Unfortunately Tessa can see that his need for revenge was literally eating him alive, But she figures if she comforts him, eventually he will see how much she cares for him and stop focusing on it so much. Finally she finds something they both have in common. They both want to see this mysterious black stallion that has been wondering around their farm.  As they work together trying to get the Stallion to trust them, Tessa senses that Hans is finally accepting and noticing her. As their relationship starts to build, Tessa begins to wonder if Hans would finally ask to marry her or if she would always be cast in Betsy's shadow. 

Back at the Indian Village...
Betsy has become fully immersed in the Indian way of life and though it was not a hard life , she missed her family dreadfully and she missed living the way she was brought up. A Indian man about her age named Askuwheteau ( or Caleb, You will have to read the story to see why an Indian would have a Amish/Christian name)  tries to help her to see the joy and peace of Indian life but when he sees that she is still troubled, He plans an escape to first take her to her brother and then back to her people.

If Betsy ever makes it back to her Amish friends, back to the world she came from... Will it be the same as it was before or will she find that she no longer belongs in that world?
And if she makes it back, Will Hans and Tessa have taken their relationship too far or will she make it back in time to get back to the relationship with Hans that she once had?



So what did I think? 
So this is book three of the Amish Beginnings series and even though I did read the previous book in the series, I would say that it could also be read as a standalone. Though it did have some violence ( Nothing horribly graphic, but there was mention of blood shed - especially when describing the Indian attack) the story is so intriguing that it grabs you at the beginning and does not let go until the very end. The characters are well thought out and the story is very well written. Like I mentioned before, this was not like any Amish book I have ever read before and I really enjoyed reading it.  My only issue was that the ending did not seem to be complete ( probably so she could write another book for the series ) Overall it is a great book with a intriguing plot ( slight bit of violence) I give this book 4.5 stars out of 5 stars **** 



If you want to check out this series or any of Suzanne's other books, Here is the link: 





Happy Reading :) 


  I would like to thank Revell , A division of Baker Publishing Group for allowing me to review this book in exchange for a free copy, I was not required to write a favorable review, just an honest one.






Friday, August 18, 2017

The Promise of Dawn by Lauraine Snelling

"Our someday has already begun. I see promise of dawn every day when the sun touches the tops of the big trees, the smoke rises from the chimney... and the cows bellows that we should hurry... "
- Rune Carlson , The Promise of Dawn by Lauraine Snelling



Hey Readers, I have another wonderful book for you to check out.  My latest "Must Read" is  by Lauraine Snelling. The Promise of Dawn is a historical fiction story that is set in the untamed land of Minnesota in the early 1900s. I would recommend this book if you:

  • Have read any of this author's other writings ( she has written over 45 books for adults and several series for youth) 
  • Like to read books by Lori Copeland and Tracie Peterson.
  • Would like to read a sweet story about love, hope and one family's journey toward their dream. 
  • Just want to read a great book :)

So here is the story:

The Promise of Dawn is the story of Rune and Signe Carlson who live in Norway with their three young boys Bjorn, Leif and Knute.  All of them loved Norway but there were not many opportunities for the boys to learn and eventually find jobs. So when a letter from Signe's cousins in Amerika  ( America) arrived asking for help in exchange for passage to Minnesota, They decide to make the journey to the new world in hopes of a better life for them and their children. The journey was long and especially hard for Signe because she found out a few days before their ship left port that she was pregnant. Finally arriving in Minnesota, they discover that the life they had pictured for themselves was very different from reality. Signe's cousins Einar and Gerd are both mean and cruel,  Einar only cares about how many trees they can cut down and how much work they can get finished and Gerd refuses to get out of bed because she is sick and assumes that Signe will do EVERYTHING around the house.  They do not even have beds to sleep in or a house to themselves! They are given the one room attic to live in and nothing to sleep on.  It takes some time but finally Signe accepts that God brought them here and that He has a plan for them so she decides to have patience with Gerd and help her to get stronger but its hard to help someone who does not want your help. After working for Einar and Gerd for several months, They are worn down to the bone. One of the boys broke their arm and Einar still expected him to work!  Then when Rune and Signe wanted to enroll the boys in school, Einar yells at them  stating that he paid their passage and that they have to work for him until it is paid off or he will have the sheriff arrest all of them.  Signe is sure they have worked enough to pay off what they were given but will they be able to prove it to the sheriff if Einar follows though with his threat?

When all seems lost, Their dreams appear to be impossible... Will they cling to the promise of dawn?


So what did I think? 
Well  The Promise of Dawn is the first book in Lauraine Snelling's new series  Under Northern Skies and it did not disappoint. Although the book has several Norwegian words within the story, it was not hard to read or understand ( It just took a few pages to get used to it) I love the amount of detail the author put in the story, describing the house, the farm and the surrounding lands. I did find that though the plot and story line were interesting that the story seemed to slow down a bit towards the middle of the book but then picked right back up to end the story perfectly. Overall I think this is a fantastic beginning to a new series and I definitely will check out book 2 when it comes out.
 I give the book 4 out of 5 stars****


If you want to check out any of this author's other books or would like to look at this series, Here is the link:
http://www.laurainesnelling.com/html/books.html


Happy Reading :)


  I would like to thank Bethany House for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy. I was not asked to write a favorable review, Just a honest one.


Monday, July 31, 2017

On Love's Gentle Shore by Liz Johnson

How can Natalie go back to the place that she tried so hard to get away from? 







Hey Readers, I have another fantastic book for you to check out, My latest addition to my "Must Read" list is On Loves Gentle Shore by Liz Johnson. So this is book three of the Prince Edward Island Dreams series and it is a Contemporary Romance set in beautiful Prince Edward Island ,Canada.  I would recommend this book if you:

  • Like to watch Hallmark movies, 
  • Are looking for a sweet romance novel,
  • Like to read books by Jody Hedlund and/or Becky Wade,
  • Have read the first two books in the Prince Edward Island Dreams series. 
  • Just want to check out a new book. 

So here is the story, 
On Loves Gentle Shore is the story of Natalie O'Ryan who is getting married and just found out that her fiance planned their wedding at her childhood home of Prince Edward Island, Canada.  Unfortunately she did not leave the island on good terms.  She had a rough childhood and her family was always the "talk of the town" . So she ran away without telling anyone, not even her best friend Justin Kane and now fifteen years later she has to face everyone that she left. 

Justin Kane was shocked when he found out his old friend Natalie was coming back to the Island and he did not want to see her. Not after she broke his heart when he was seventeen by disappearing off the face of the earth. They had made plans together, When they were older, they were going to go to Nashville and he was going to record music and she would be finally be away from the Island but then she disappeared and his Dad died and he got stuck working on their Dairy Farm.  But when he sees her at the local cafe, he is shocked at how beautiful and grown up she looked and yet she looked just like he remembered. Natalie was equally shocked to see Justin but did not know what to say to him so she decided to do what she did fifteen years before... She ran away. Unfortunately the place where they were going to have the reception became unavailable so the only place on the Island that she could have her wedding reception would be a barn on Justin's property. Natalie decides that the barn will work as long as she does not have to talk to or work with Justin because it hurts too much. But when her fiance has to leave the island due to issues with his company, She is given no choice but to work with Justin. But as they worked together, They both start to remember why they were such good friends and questions start to circle in Natalie's mind. Did her fiance really love who she really was or did he fall in love with the girl she pretended to be? As the wedding draws near Justin struggles with his feelings.  Now that his anger with Natalie has subsided,  How can he help his best friend get married to someone else when he is in love with her?


What did I think?
So as I mentioned before, This is book three of the Prince Edward Island Series but it definitely could be read as a stand alone.  The author presents such a beautiful story that it grabs you from the first page and does not let go until the end. Though the end was a bit predictable ( kind of like a Hallmark movie) I thoroughly enjoyed the journey getting there. I love the way the Author describes the Island, especially the view from the lighthouse. When you read it, you can almost feel the breeze and hear the waves hitting the rocks near the shore.  I loved the side story of forgiveness, love and redemption that was weaved in through out the story, especially between Natalie and her father. Overall I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. *****


If you would like to check out this book or the previous books in the series, ( The Red Door Inn and Where Two Hearts Meet)  here is the link: 
http://www.lizjohnsonbooks.com/books/



Happy Reading :) 


  I would like to thank Revell , A division of Baker Publishing Group for allowing me to review this book in exchange for a free copy, I was not required to write a favorable review, just an honest one.