THE ELUSIVE TRUTH OF LILY TEMPLE by Joanna Davidson Politano, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

"Of all the women in the world . . . why one I cannot trust? . . . Why have you embedded her in my heart?"

"I didn't ask you to trust her. I asked you to trust me."

The truth. "I hadn't decided if I'd tell the whole truth or not . . . . I however, never let facts hinder the power of a good story." And a good tale she would tell. Silent film star Lily Temple was in fact a masterful storyteller for she depended on the power of fanciful words both to conceal and to reveal . . . incidentally, the one person who seemed to listen unconditionally was Peter . . . Peter Driscoll. A solicitor. A man whose occupation required digging deep for the facts, living his life sacrificially to pen story endings . . . for others. Now he wanted to write hers. Peter's chapter one began with a valuable sapphire necklace, while Lily's had begun long ago in a garden oasis.

The wonder of it all! Tantalizing us with whimsical, cyclical, twistings of what was, and is, and might become; this story sang a melodic rhapsody of knowing and being known, of searching and finding what was never lost, of freeing one's soul of chains that had never bound. It's a garden story, a love story, a "rescuer of our souls" story  . . . for "the more fiction wove through my heart, the clearer the truth became".

"He has written eternity on our heart, and in every story we tell."
*I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own. 

 

 SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Peter Driscoll, an underground investigator to the wealthy, has never met anyone like Lily Temple. The beautiful silent-film actress spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera, but beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit--and a murky past.

Peter has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire, which Lily wears beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and hopefully unravel the mystery of her story--and the sapphire--Peter employs Lily's help on a case, which leads to a useful partnership. But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it is that he needs her even more than she needs him.

Award-winning author Joanna Davidson Politano whisks you away to Edwardian England in 1903 for a whimsical and layered tale that treads the crooked line between real and make-believe.

Revell Publishing, April, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy THE ELUSIVE TRUTH OF LILY TEMPLE at  Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

 

LOVE IN TANDEM by Becca Kinzer, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

"It's a terrible thing when a teacher survives an entire school year only to die the first minute of summer vacation."

If Charlotte Carter thought getting stung by a bee that she just might possibly be allergic to was going to be the most terrifying experience of her summer vacation, then it's a good thing she didn't know about the roof-top scramble to evade wild boars, or being hauled in for questioning about stealing someone else's baby. Nope . . . bees, babies, and boars were literally a piece of cake compared to . . . in fact, it was actually a piece of cake that got her tangled up in the whole mess with Zach Bryant and the tandem bike competition to begin with . . . winning meant the money needed for her middle school band instruments would be available, which in turn would ensure her part-time job in Bailey Springs stayed intact, so therefore she could live in the small town forever, amen.

There seemed to be a little bit of confusion over where things stood between Charlotte and Zach. (back to that piece of cake!) Before they realized what happened exactly (oh, there were parts of the story when they definitely knew what had happened . . . loosely defined as canoodling), off they went on a bicycle built for two!

A sassy, flirty, comedic conundrum involving a head-over-wheels adventure when the right girl meets the wrong boy . . . or is it the right boy for the wrong girl . . . or, who are we kidding . . .just read this delightful romantic comedy with its appropriate amounts of hilarity in between some high voltage romantic tension.

" . . .sometimes it's not about feeling ready. It's about something you don't want to lose, when vowing to never stop going after it no matter how many setbacks you have along the way.
* I purchased this book and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

BackCover Blurb:
She’s perfectly content leading a quiet life in her small hometown. He’s an adventurer with unquenchable wanderlust. The two couldn’t be any more opposite if they tried. But a tandem bicycle and a 500-mile road trip just might change all that.

After a failed engagement and her mother’s battle with cancer, Charlotte Carter’s life is finally turning around now that she’s landed a dream job teaching music. What she didn’t see coming was the imminent closure of the school’s music program. She’s determined to save it, even if it means getting creative. There’s no way she’s chalking this up as just another failure in her book of recent embarrassments.

Zach Bryant is back in town just long enough to see his brother Ben get married and then he’s off traveling the world again. He never imagined he’d run into Charlotte Carter, his brother’s ex-fiancé, or that everyone would believe he and Charlotte are an item. He certainly didn’t dream he’d end up riding a tandem bicycle hundreds of miles with her in an attempt to raise funds for a defunct music program, but how can he say no when the prize money would help him out of his financial predicament too?

Charlotte is sure she can set aside her differences with Zach long enough to cross the finish line and win the giant cash prize . . . can’t she? A few hundred miles in, she’s questioning her deeply held assumptions about Zach and wondering if maybe tandem biking is only the start of their biggest adventure yet.

Fake dating romantic comedy by Becca Kinzer
Timeless opposites attract theme
Clean romance
Discussion questions for book clubs

Tyndale House, April 2024
Available in digital ebook, paperback, library binding, and audiobook:
Buy LOVE IN TANDEM at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

WALKING ON HIDDEN WINGS by Rachel Scott McDaniel, Reviewed by Winnie Thomas

Talented author Rachel Scott McDaniel swept me away to New York in the 1920s in her newest book, Walking on Hidden Wings. The plot was imaginative, the characters were colorful, engaging, and multi-layered, and the history was fascinating.

“I must align myself with a worthy spouse because that was what one did when situated on the highest rung of the social ladder. I wanted nothing more than to kick the infernal ladder over.”

When socialite Geneva Ashcroft and newspaper owner Warren Hayes enter into a marriage arranged by her father, Geneva begs Warren to teach her to fly his plane. She is devastated a few weeks later when his plane crashes. When she is suspected of his murder, she embarks on a mission to find the real culprit. Warren’s tender care and love toward Geneva was so sweet, and I admired Geneva for her courage, tenacity, and willingness to buck against the social system.

With plenty of suspense, action, history, and romance, this story has something for everyone. It was easy to immerse myself into the tale and the historical era. I’ve read several of McDaniel’s books and enjoyed them all. I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical Christian fiction.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Kregel Publications. All opinions are my own. 4.5 stars

SEE REVIEWS BY KIM AND PAULA

Back Cover Blurb:
Geneva Ashcroft Hayes's marriage to a newspaper mogul might have been arranged, but the New York socialite is devastated when her husband's plane crashes a few short months after their nuptials. When the authorities suspect murder, Geneva sets out on a wild mission to find his killer--and to prove it wasn't her!

When mysterious notes surface pointing to Geneva's guilt in his death, they only strengthen her resolve. She has little to go on except for a detective friend's cryptic list of locations connected to her dead spouse. When the friend also disappears, she trades her sparkling gowns for coveralls and pilot goggles.

Armed with a new name and career as a wingwalker and barnstormer, she travels from town to town in hopes of unearthing clues and locating her missing friend. But Geneva discovers that her past may not belong to her . . . what she once believed as truth may be nothing more than lies and deception.

Kregel Publications, April, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy WALKING ON HIDDEN WINGS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

THE END OF THE ROAD by Christy Barritt, (True Crime Junkies), Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

(True Crime Junkies Book 6)

" . . . she knew too much. I wouldn't let her ruin me . . . She was mine. And I couldn't wait to remind her of that fact."

Simmy Samuels and Ranger Garrett!!! Who knew what a story they had to tell?! So many secrets hidden deep within the mountain ranges of Alaska. When their identities are inadvertently revealed to the public through an Arctic Circle Murder Club case, they go on the run once again . . . providentially running into each other, and deciding to face what comes next together . . . even if it means "I'm in this with you. Until the end."

"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed." 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. "Lord, let that be my prayer. Help us not to be destroyed."

This fast-moving romantic suspense, borderline thriller, borderline cozy mystery, borderline split-time novel is perfectly paced, perfectly plotted, and perfectly woven into the overall series with the aplomb of a seasoned veteran who knows how to keep an audience tuned in over and over again. The inspirational elements are seamlessly woven into the story, and the outcome is not only just a bit of a surprise, but totally satisfying. 

*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review

 

BackCover Blurb:
With the future of the Arctic Circle Murder Club teetering on rocky ground, the team members have scattered. But it’s not long before they realize some bonds can’t be broken.

Fearing an adversary from her past will find her, Simmy Samuels runs, determined to find a new place to hide. But Ranger Garrett isn’t about to leave Simmy out in the cold and alone. He’s determined to both protect Simmy and to search for his daughter, whom he thought was dead.

As Ranger and Simmy set out to find his little girl, danger follows them into the vast wilderness of Alaska. Challenges meet them at every turn: unyielding danger, truth that feels more like fiction, and reality blurred by deception.

Will they survive long enough to set things right? Or will this be the end of the road for the murder club? 

 

River Heights Publishing, March, 2024

Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon

 

THE GIRL FROM THE HIDDEN FOREST by Hannah Linder, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

One of my favorite tropes is a hero rescuing a damsel in distress. This one has a little twist because Felton first kidnapped Eliza to take her back to her father. Eliza has been hidden away in a remote forest for fourteen years. She knows little of the outside world except what she reads in books that Captain, her guardian, has supplied her with. She uses books to imagine what the world could be like. “She was the princess, the mermaid, the fairy- and he was the noble rescuer who had entered the forest and changed her life.”
 

Full of secrets, danger, suspense, a fight of good versus evil, and a nightmare that would not yield answers, this book was a feast of words. Eliza was a naive and innocent girl who cried out to God in prayer. Felton was noble, loyal and fought to right the wrongs done to his family and Eliza.

Another superb Gothic Regency tale from Hannah Linder to savor for its complexity and foreboding plot.
*I read an ecopy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.*

BackCover Blurb:
The nightmares may free her … but destroy the man she loves.

Enjoy another Gothic Style Regency from Hannah Linder.

Eliza Ellis has stayed hidden in Balfour Forest for as long as she can remember. Perhaps her only friends are the trees, or her little dog, or her story-telling father called Captain. But at least she is safe from the cruel world outside, a world Captain has warned her against and protected her from.

That is, until a handsome stranger named Felton Northwood invades her quiet forest and steals her away. Why does he tell such lies? Why does he insist that her name is Miss Eliza Gillingham, daughter of a viscount, who disappeared fourteen years ago after the murder of her own mother? A murder Eliza is said to have witnessed.

When Felton returns Eliza to Monbury Manor and reunites her with a man who is told to be her father, all she remembers are the strange nightmares that have plagued her since childhood. Why have they suddenly grown worse? Are the answers hidden inside her own mind?

As danger mounts and lethal attempts are made on her life, Eliza and Felton must work together to uncover the identity of a killer who has stayed silent for fourteen years. When she finally uncovers the horrendous memories trapped in her mind, will divulging the truth cost her the man she loves--and both of their lives?

Barbour Publishing, May 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy THE GIRL FROM THE HIDDEN FOREST at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

THE ROADS WE FOLLOW by Nicole Deese, Reviewed by Winnie and Paula #ReleaseDay

(A Feel Good Contemporary Family Drama Romance Novel) 

(A Fog Harbor Romance)

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
The Roads We Follow is a perfect blend of realistically flawed characters, a captivating plot, a budding romance, and an intriguing mystery. Talented author Nicole Deese has written an exquisitely-crafted story of the importance of family, the power of love, and the necessity of following your heart. She deals sensitively with some deep topics as she carefully unfolds the story layer by layer.

It was easy for me to relate to Raegan as she tried to deal with her sisters and their varied personalities and quirks, since I have several sisters myself. Micah was a trooper as he drove the bus for the three sisters and their mother Luella. That would be quite a daunting task for most people, and to do it while trying to solve his own mystery had me rooting for him. I enjoyed the trip across the United States visiting some interesting areas with the Farrow family as they recreate the road trip Luella took with Micah’s mother, Lynn, many years before.

Deese’s stories are always infused with plenty of deep meaning and brimming with wit and charm. This one is a beautifully written tale that takes the reader on a journey of healing, hope, and discovery. I recommend it to those who enjoy clean contemporary Christian fiction.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. All opinions are my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Throw mom Luella Farrow, who is a Country Music Icon, her three daughters, and the son of her deceased best friend onto a refurbished tour bus for a two week nostalgic road trip and you have unexpected consequences. Driver Micah: *I am not here by chance. And neither are any of my passengers.*
 

Youngest daughter Reagan wants to be able to shine on her own, not in the shadow of her well-known mom. But her dream of becoming a writer of fiction stutters when someone threatens her family and its treasured history.
 

*Forgiveness. Both given and received. It is meant to come in a perfect pair, no matter how pride may tell us otherwise.* (Luella)
What struck me besides being a highly readable story about family, was how the characters were living out their faith and that God and scripture were their foundation. As in real life, the players were not without their mistakes and fears, but the author clearly showed the family working through obstacles thrown in their path. Long held secrets and old hurts surfaced to help the characters grow in their faith.
 

But do not think this book is morose or solemn. There are wonderful descriptions of places visited and a liberal sprinkling of humor in the right places. I loved the old Inn where they stayed out in farm country. It was decorated in Wizard of Oz splendor. And romance is included as Micah and Reagan learn to trust each other.
A well-rounded womens fiction with a dash of romance.
*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
A cross-country road trip. A secretive box of journals. An unforgettable summer romance.

As the youngest daughter of a country music legend, Raegan Farrow longs to establish an identity away from the spotlight and publish her small-town romances under a pen name. But after her dream is dashed when she won't exploit her mother's fame to further her own career, she hears a rumor from a reliable source regarding a tell-all being written about the Farrow family. Making matters worse, the unknown author has gone to great lengths to remain anonymous until publication.

Raegan chooses to keep the tell-all a secret from her scandal-leery sisters as they embark on a two-week cross-country road trip at their mother's request and makes it her mission to expose the identity of the author behind the unsanctioned biography. But all is complicated when she discovers their hired bus driver, Micah Davenport, has a hidden agenda of his own--one involving both of their mothers and an old box of journals. As they rely on each other to find the answers they seek, the surprising revelations they unearth will lead them down an unexpected road of love and reconciliation.

Bethany House Publishing, April 2024
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy THE ROADS WE FOLLOW at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

THESE TANGLED THREADS (A Novel of Biltmore) by Sarah Loudin Thomas, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

"He marveled, uncertain how the tangled threads of their lives had come together to create this gorgeous pattern."

Tangled threads. Master weaver Lorna Blankenship was tearing her hair out over untangling the tangles that her young weaver constantly manufactured, if in fact she was actually doing what she was supposed to be doing, which was consistently rare. Gentry had plenty of energy, it was simply unharnessed, unpredictable and undeniably going in wrong directions. Ironically, the fourteen year old ended up possessing something that took Lorna by complete surprise . . . Gentry had extraordinary patterns stashed away in her room, the kind that would produce exquisite fabrics for Biltmore Industries  . . . and the little scamp claimed they were her mother's? It becomes a moot point who had ownership of what, when Gentry disappears, leaving Lorna with a guilt-ridden hole in the pit of her stomach.

Years later, Lorna accepts a commission for a one-of-a-kind design for Cornelia Vanderbilt's upcoming nuptials, and uncharacteristically begins to panic when inspiration eludes her. She turns to friend Arthur Westcott, (with whom her relationship has taken many confusing twists and turns) to help her search for an artisan weaver whose talent she happened upon in a local market. The ensuing journey takes the two on a crisscrossing of mountain towns and trails, spending the kind of time together that could weave the complicated experiences of their past and present into a fabric strong enough to ensure their future.

Told with the beautiful Biltmore Estate and Village as a backdrop, concurrently using a three tiered set of character voices, the author succeeds in bringing the illustrious history of the area into the spotlight while celebrating the talented artisans whose stories should be impossible to separate from the success of their benefactors.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Interviews and Reviews. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own. 3.5 stars

 

 SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Seven years ago, a hidden betrayal scattered three young friends living in the shadow of Biltmore Estate. Now, when Biltmore Industries master weaver Lorna Blankenship is commissioned to create an original design for Cornelia Vanderbilt's 1924 wedding, she panics knowing she doesn't have the creativity needed. But there's an elusive artisan in the Blue Ridge Mountains who could save her--if only she can find her.

To track the mysterious weaver down, Lorna sees no other way but to seek out the relationships she abandoned in shame. As she pulls at each tangled thread from her old life, Lorna is forced to confront the wounds and regrets of long ago. She'll have to risk the job that shapes her identity as well as the hope of friendship--and love--restored.

In this seamlessly woven historical tale, award-winning Appalachian author Sarah Loudin Thomas delivers a poignant novel of friendship, artistry, restoration, and second chances. 

Bethany House Publishing, April 2, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook

Buy THESE TANGLED THREADS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

ONE LAST SHOT (Alaska Air One Rescue #1) by Susan May Warren, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

" . . . God will do amazing things with someone who is willing to let him."

Country music star Oaken Fox joins a reality show deep in the woods of Alaska in order to do an "amazing thing" . . . earn a hefty donation for a charity group that is near and dear to his heart for personal reasons, and maybe, just maybe paying off a debt of guilt at the same time. When things go terribly wrong and Oaken is picked up on the side of the road half-frozen by Air One Rescue EMT Boo Kingston, he extends his time in Alaska while his film crew takes the plan in a different direction: inserting Oaken into the rescue team to play the role of a "celebrity hero".

Oh . . . no, no, no. Boo Kingston is not going to make the same mistake twice, falling for a handsome face, no matter how easy it is to be mesmerized by Oaken Fox and his inherent charm. Except, it feels different than before, the "before" being a public fiasco that dubbed her "Boo Hoo" and sent her scurrying away from family and friends . . . all the way into the Alaskan wilderness.

Almost immediately, I felt at home with these characters. Yes, there are adrenaline rushes (helicopter drops, cliff rescues, icy mud flats with tidal waves - no thank you) and tender by-the-light-of-the-moon moments, (humming with romantic lyrics), but there's also life lived together under the tutelage of an incredible leader who never shies away from giving out spiritual wisdom at just the right moment, (a big guy appropriately named Moose) and in this case, a hero who gets his head on straight just in time to be . . . well, a hero. And a heroine who "wasn't lost. She was found."

*I purchased this book and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

 

SEE KIM'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
When country music star Oaken Fox joins survivalist Mike Grizz's new adventure show in the Alaskan wilderness, he just wants to boost his fan base. But when tragedy strikes, and Air One Rescue must save them, Oaken just wants to quit. Too bad his producer has other plans—signing him on with Air One Rescue as a recruit and making a reality show...

EMT Boo Kingston did not join Air One Rescue to train a celebrity. But she's a rookie to the team, so yes, she'll train Oaken and keep him alive and not for a minute pay attention to his charm...

And then five women go missing from a resort during a bachelorette weekend gone south. Now, Air One and the rescue team will have to use all their skills--and manpower, including Oaken--to find them before a blizzard settles in. But can they work together before tragedy strikes?

Alaska Air One Rescue
Book 1: One Last Shot
Book 2: One Last Chance
Book 3: One Last Promise
Book 4: One Last Stand 

March, 2024 Available in digital ebook, hardcover, and paperback.

Buy ONE LAST SHOT at Amazon 

 

 

WALKING ON HIDDEN WINGS by Rachel Scott McDaniel, Reviewed by Kim and Paula #ReleaseDay

 A NOVEL OF THE ROARING TWENTIES

KIM'S REVIEW:
WOW!!! All the stars for Walking on Hidden Wings by Rachel Scott McDaniel! This story has it all! Swoon worthy male character? Check. Amazing female character? Check. Romance? Check. Great banter? Check. Intriguing mystery? Check. In fact, if I were forced to choose, I would say that Walking on Hidden Wings is my favorite story by Ms. McDaniel and that is saying something! I have loved all of her other stories. They are all on my keeper shelf and I highly recommend them to everyone!

I loved Geneva! She is strong, smart, and loyal! I loved her the second she appeared on the page! Rachel McDaniel writes the absolute best female characters. They are strong, yet likable, which is very rare and takes such talent to pull off. And now, let’s talk about Warren, sigh, he is absolutely swoon worthy and I loved everything about him! He too was loyal and he didn’t compromise his principles for anyone. He was just perfect for Geneva! And did I mention swoon worthy? Romantic? Kind? Perfect? Can you tell he’s a new favorite of mine? The mystery in this story was perfection. It was very intriguing and kept me guessing and accusing everyone, with good reason, until the very end.

This is a story you do not want to miss! Rachel Scott McDaniel is one of the best storytellers out there! I cannot wait to read whatever she writes next!
*I purchased this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light. 5 amazing stars.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
“Oh that invitation to adventure. There was not a cell in my being that was immune to it.” Adventure turns to danger when Geneva Hayes is accused of murdering her husband.

In 1922, Geneva feels confined by her posh lifestyle so she finds adventure in wing-walking and flying a Curtis Jenny airplane. Yes Geneva finds adventure- more than she bargained for.

There is so much to love in this book: heartache and hope, mystery and peril, and the romance of married life. The author puts it all together beautifully and gives us spiritual lessons as well. There is soul searching, learning to trust and acting out forgiveness. And there are so many possible suspects that you are constantly kept guessing. One thing remained: God’s love and provision.

Warren was a great example of compassion and steadfastness. I love Geneva and Warren as a couple. Even when they had doubts, they were there for each other.

Ms. McDaniel is on her A game with this intriguing, thrilling, romantic tale. This novel has it all and will be on my keeper shelf.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel via NetGalley. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread

 Back Cover Blurb:
Geneva Ashcroft Hayes's marriage to a newspaper mogul might have been arranged, but the New York socialite is devastated when her husband's plane crashes a few short months after their nuptials. When the authorities suspect murder, Geneva sets out on a wild mission to find his killer--and to prove it wasn't her!

When mysterious notes surface pointing to Geneva's guilt in his death, they only strengthen her resolve. She has little to go on except for a detective friend's cryptic list of locations connected to her dead spouse. When the friend also disappears, she trades her sparkling gowns for coveralls and pilot goggles.

Armed with a new name and career as a wingwalker and barnstormer, she travels from town to town in hopes of unearthing clues and locating her missing friend. But Geneva discovers that her past may not belong to her . . . what she once believed as truth may be nothing more than lies and deception.

Kregel Publications, April, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy WALKING ON HIDDEN WINGS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

THE GARDEN GIRLS by Jessica Patch, reviewed by Kim #ReleaseDay

Wow! This series is just so good. If you like thrillers that keep you guessing until the very end, this is the book, no, the series, for you. I have been anticipating reading The Garden Girls by Jessica Patch since I finished A Cry in the Dark. It was not a disappointment!

The Garden Girls was original, creepy, thoroughly unpredictable, and totally satisfying. This story ran me through the gamut of emotions. I laughed (I love Ty’s sense of humor), was completely shocked- many times (like jaw dropping shocked), anxious (this killer is one strange character), and I cried (more than once). I was also mad, but due to spoilers, I can’t reference why. I loved seeing all the characters again. Violet’s character growth is one of my favorite things. She may just be my favorite character. I really love this team and their relationships with each other. I am hoping for more stories in this series!

If you want a read that will keep you on the edge of your seat and will keep you guessing- incorrectly!- the entire time, this is the book for you!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. I also purchased a copy. All opinions are my own. 5 stars! 

 

BackCover Blurb:
On a remote Outer Banks island, a serial killer collects his prized specimens. And to stop him, an FBI agent must confront his own twisted past.

FBI agent Tiberius Granger has seen his share of darkness. But a new case sets him on edge. It’s not just the macabre way both victims—found posed in front of lighthouses—are tattooed with flowers that match their names. There’s also the unsettling connection to the woman Ty once loved and to the shadowy cult they both risked everything to escape.

Bexley Hemmingway’s sister has gone missing, and she’ll do anything to find her—including teaming up with Ty. That may prove a mistake, and not just because Ty doesn’t know he’s the father of her teenaged son. It seems the killer is taunting Ty, drawing everyone close to him into deeper danger.

As the slashing winds and rain of a deadly hurricane approach the coast of North Carolina, the search leads Ty and Bex to an island that hides a grisly secret. But in his quest for the truth, Ty has ignored the fact that this time, he’s not just the hunter. Every move has been orchestrated by a killer into a perfect storm of terror, and they will need all their skills to survive…

More chilling novels from Jessica R. Patch:
Her Darkest Secret
A Cry in the Dark

Love Inspired Trade, April, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy THE GARDEN GIRLS at Amazon, or Christianbook .com,

 

IF THE BOOT FITS (Texas Ever After #2) by Karen Witemeyer, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

" . . . the man I marry must fit the boot I found the night of my ball."

After saving a life, only a boot is left behind . . . of course the fleeing trespasser could have been any sort of a man, but Samantha Dearing chooses to dream big dreams and make the mysterious cowboy into a hero who has just made one teensy, weensy mistake . . . her cattle baron father doesn't exactly share her assessment, but that was a conversation for another day. Her brother did not drown, nothing had been stolen, end of story . . . right?

Actually, the story has only just begun for Asher Ellis. To Asher's utter dismay his path keeps crossing with that of the lovely Samantha Dearing; however, thank the Lord above, she doesn't seem to recognize him. Spending a frequent amount of time with Samantha, Asher's sour opinion of her father begins to soften into a "maybe I was wrong about him" admittance. But still, something isn't quite right on the Three Cedars Ranch; Samantha is experiencing a fair number of "accidents" and Asher's protective instincts are beginning to hum with a few too many thoughts of calling her his "darling" . . . which in turn means the truth about that boot will most certainly have to come out.

Picking up a book by this author is always and forever an absolute delight! Only in Texas could a forsaken boot form the basis for such an entertaining fairy tale re-telling between two characters whose impromptu rendezvous at a party ends up in a pond . . . and boy howdy, enjoy reading how that turns out!

*I purchased this book and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

See Winnie's Review

See Paula's Review

BackCover Blurb:
One fateful night will change their destinies forever. . . .

Convinced that his stepmother and half brothers have been wrongfully evicted by cattle king Eli Dearing, Asher Ellis uses the cover of an extravagant ball to break into the Three Cedars' ranch house to search for proof. On the verge of discovery, he flees, but a boy's cry compels him to make a daring rescue.

Spunky and independent Samantha Dearing balks when she learns the ball her father is hosting is nothing more than a matrimonial ambush. Taking a break from unwanted suitors, Samantha spots a thief fleeing her home. When the stranger ends up saving her brother's life, she hides the only clue to his identity left behind--his boot--and resolves to find him herself.

When Samantha encounters the older brother of a student she tutors, all thoughts of the bootless mystery man vanish. Asher values family above wealth, a rare trait that opens her heart. Afraid she will discover his past misconduct, Asher tries to keep his distance, but when a series of suspicious accidents befall her, he vows to protect her, even though saving her life could mean losing her love.

Bethany House Publishing, March, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy IF THE BOOT FITS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

 

 

 

A NOBLE SCHEME (The Imposters #2) by Roseanna M. White, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

" . . . this house had never been meant to be his alone."

Pushing aside his wayward thoughts, Imposters, Ltd. operative Graham Wharton responds to a request for their private investigative agency to find and retrieve a kidnapped child, whom the kidnappers had mistakenly thought to be his cousin, the son of an aristocrat. The time line to pay an exorbitant ransom was just days away and Graham's architectural knowledge would most certainly come into play as his cohorts researched how to slip in and out of large manor houses under the guise of attending a fashionable Christmas gathering.

Gemma. Just the thought of her, the sight of her, the sound of her voice (even under disguise) . . . would being around her again be more than he could bear? It had been a year . . . since their hearts had been shattered into a million tiny little pieces. And according to Graham, even God, especially God, could not put them back together again . . . could He?

Underneath an impressive shroud of mystery and intrigue, the author plunges heart first into an emotive display of personal, spiritual, and relational angst; positioning her characters in a fight for their lives on multiple levels, while seamlessly weaving their current assignment into a cloudy image of their private affairs. It's nothing short of brilliant.

"She prayed God's will was for life. Reconciliation. Joy." 

*I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

SEE REVIEWS BY WINNIE AND PAULA

BackCover Blurb:
In the opulent and perilous world of high society's most elite--and most dangerous--families, two investigators must set aside their broken hearts to uncover the truth.

Gemma Parks is known to the London elite as G. M. Parker, a columnist renowned for her commentary on the cream of society. Behind the scenes, she uses her talents to aid the Imposters in their investigations by gathering intel at events and providing alibis for the firm's members through her columns. Yet her clandestine work would be more exhilarating if it weren't for the constant presence of the gentleman who broke her heart.

Graham Wharton has never had eyes for anyone but Gemma, and she left his heart in tatters when she walked away from him. When the Imposters take on a new job to recover a kidnapped boy mistaken for his aristocratic cousin, Graham is determined to use the time with Gemma to not only restore the missing boy, but to also win back the only woman he's ever loved. As they trace the clues laid out before them, Graham and Gemma must devise a noble scheme to save the boy's life and heal their hearts.

Bethany House Publishing, March 15, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy A NOBLE SCHEME at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

FATAL DOMAIN by Steven James, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #NewRelease

*Be loved. Betrayed*

Wow what a rollercoaster of a story full of intrigue and danger. DOD agent Travis Brock has a remarkable memory that he uses at the Pentagon. He is a widower who was scarred when a fire burned him and took the life of his wife. Travis is a man trying to do his job and having life throw things at him along the way.
Lots of criminals in this one who are crafty and evil. Get into the mind of people who will do anything to advance their agenda. 

*We are as much drawn to the light as we are lured by the darkness. Both. Always both.* A few unique scenarios keep this spy thriller very interesting. Add in some family drama and an impending threat and this was a great page turner.

This can be raw in some scenes but completely believable and current. The author infuses his story with characters who are searching for spiritual answers and a reformed convict who is asking for forgiveness. *When we play God, there are always unintended consequences that makes it clear we are not up to the task, He creates life in His own image. We create monsters in ours.* 

Some things are not resolved in this story but the promise is there of more to come from Travis Brock in book 3.
* I received a complimentary book from Tyndale via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a strong faith thread 

SEE REBECCA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
When the past scratches its way into the present, it can leave deep scars.

A series of cryptic clues leads Department of Defense redactor Travis Brock to suspect that a grim chapter from his past is not yet over. With the help of his eidetic memory and his newly formed team, he must unearth the truth and stop a terrorist group from stealing one of the military’s most highly guarded technological breakthroughs. With it, the group plans to commit a daring act of espionage that could upend the work of one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical firms and impact millions of people worldwide.

In a high-stakes story of action and intrigue that reaches from a refugee settlement in Uganda to the shores of the Potomac in Washington, DC, shattering secrets from the past will be revealed, loyalties tested, and intimate betrayals brought to light as Brock is forced to decide how to forgive what he cannot forget.

From a novelist that Publishers Weekly has called a “master storyteller” comes an intricate and taut thriller that will have you guessing until the final page.

Relevant, contemporary spy thriller
Fast-paced suspense
Issues of terrorism and espionage
The central theme is the power of forgiveness

Tyndale House Publishing, April 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy FATAL DOMAIN at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

 

 

THE SLEUTH OF BLACKFRIARS LANE (Blackfriars Lane #3) by Michelle Griep, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

"Three years ago Kit Turner had been skiffing marks. Gaming dupes. Looking over her shoulder to stay one step ahead of the law."

"No one would believe it of her now, not standing next to a retired police sergeant in a smart blue suit and married to the chief inspector of one of the city's busiest stations." And with the sweetest little baby girl in the whole wide world . . . if only Bella would babble "ma ma" instead of "ba ba" . . . her life would be just about perfect. To add the proverbial "icing on the cake", Kit and her father (the above mentioned retired police sergeant, Mr. Graybone) were partnering in a brand new venture, "The Blackfriars Lane Enquiry Agency". What could possibly go wrong?

By now all of us are accustomed to Kit Turner Forge's good intentions, her handsome husband (the above mentioned chief inspector, Jackson Forge) however, was quickly becoming an expert in reading between the lines, discerning how saucy smiles and passionate displays of affection were all a ruse for weasling her way in or out of trouble, which happened often enough that Jackson would be terribly suspicious if she acted in any other manner. But neither Kit nor Jackson, nor Graybone (or their friends Charles Baggett and Martha Jones or a litany of others) could have ever imagined the mounds of trouble that Kit's first client as a private investigator would churn up.

"It is God who numbers our days, not you or I or anyone else. . . What I want is you just exactly as God has made you. That's all I've ever wanted . . . you're all I've ever wanted." (catch me while I swoon over a godly man who loves his wife!)

If it were up to me, this series would last forever. The characters are cast in a most spectacular fashion, their escapades are daunting, daring, and deliver outcomes of epic proportion, (for justice is even ... t . u . a . l. l. y served) leaving the supporting cast to be just as entertaining to spend time with, even if they are as peculiar as Catchpole.

*I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher, I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own. 4.5 stars

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
Wife. Mother. Homemaker. Detective. Kit Forge wears many hats, and if that’s not enough, she’s partnered with her father to open a new detective agency. It’s hard to be all things to all people, but Kit never shies away from the impossible. Despite her hard work and good intentions, some things fall through the cracks.

Namely, her husband.

But Jackson barely notices. He’s too busy putting out his own fires. As the new chief inspector of a busy London station, he must salvage the disaster left behind by the former police chief—an obstacle made all the harder when the superintendent breathes an ultimatum down his neck.

Against her father’s advice, Kit takes on a case involving a missing child, one in which she and Jackson become a little too emotionally involved. . .and end up endangering their own little girl in the process.

Can Kit and Jackson learn that just because they can say yes doesn’t mean they should?

Barbour Publishing, April 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy THE SLEUTH OF BLACKFRIARS LANE at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House