JUST THE NICEST PERSON by Christy Barritt, Reviewed by Nicole Cook

 

Get ready to journey to Alaska in Christy Barritt's latest series, True Crime Junkies. Just the Nicest Person, book one in the series, is an intriguing mystery that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Former attorney Andi Grey finds herself caught up in a possible murder investigation when her favorite true crime podcaster goes missing before sharing the name of a killer on his podcast. Former CID investigator Duke McAllister joins the search with Andi and end up right in the path of the killer.

This novel is a little different from her Lantern Beach and Vanishing Ranch series, where readers enjoyed the hearty dose of romance intertwined with the suspense/mystery. Duke is still searching for his missing fiancée, who disappeared two years ago, so while he and Andi may have shown a little attraction to each other, no romance developed in this novel. While the killer's identity was revealed at the end, readers will look forward to following the overall storyline arcs throughout this series. Will Duke find his missing fiancée, or will something more than friendship develop between Andi and Duke? I, for one, am invested in the storyline and cannot wait to see what happens next. The light faith content is integrated well into the novel.
*I purchased a copy of the book and was under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine. 

BackCover Blurb:

Strangers—each with their own secrets—are thrown together after the murder of a beloved true crime podcaster.

Disgraced attorney Andi Slade is seeking justice for the killer who destroyed her reputation and her career. But going undercover as an ice road trucker in Alaska to find answers is just the tip of the iceberg. A brutal snowstorm, a handsome stranger, and an unsolved cold case send Andi's plans into a tailspin.

Former CID investigator Duke McAllister refuses to give up searching for his fiancée who disappeared two years ago on the Dalton Highway. When he rescues a woman on the side of the road, he knows just how much danger she’s in. Stranded together and butting heads, they discover a common interest: true crime.

When their favorite local Alaskan podcaster goes radio silent right before revealing the name of a cold case killer, they dive in to investigate only to make a terrifyingly frigid discovery. Can these strangers work together to find answers before the biting, dangerous cold claims their lives? Or even worse . . . before the killer comes looking for his own brand of justice?

River Heights Publishing, July, 2023
Available in digital ebook and paperback.
Buy JUST THE NICEST PERSON at Amazon

IN THIS MOMENT by Gabrielle Meyer, Reviewed by Nicole and Rebecca

NICOLE'S REVIEW:
In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer is an incredible work of fiction that readers are guaranteed to love. Maggie is born to time-crossing parents and lives each day in three different paths, in 1861, in 1941, and 2001. This time-crossing novel will appeal to a wide range of readers, with storylines taking place during the Civil War, the attacks at Pearl Harbor, and the 9/11 attacks.

After the completely unexpected plot twist in When the Day Comes (book one), I did not know how the author could top that ending. However, Gabrielle Meyer continues to amaze me with her creative storylines and strong character development. As Maggie struggled with making her decision of which path to remain in as her 21st birthday approached, I was just as undecided as Maggie was. Any of the three paths seemed like they could be the "right" decision for her, with a handsome suitor in each path to make her choice even more difficult. As Gabrielle Meyer masterfully revealed the ending, everything fell into place perfectly, and I knew that Maggie ended up exactly where she was meant to be.

In This Moment is highly recommended for fans of time-crossing novels and historical romance. Now I cannot wait to read book three in the series when it releases in May 2024.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"Most days, I could pretend that my life was normal. I was a twenty-year old woman searching for my place in the world . . . The only difference was that I had three normal lives . . . I would have to choose which one to keep and which to forfeit."

"Do you ever get scared?" . . . "Of saying good-bye . . . forever?"

Going to sleep in one life, and waking in another had always been a way of life for Margaret Wakefield, Maggie Hollingsworth, and Meg Clarke. Born as a time crosser, she deftly navigated her knowledge of American history between 1861, 1941, and 2001 . . . albeit every once in a while her comments or actions raised a few eyebrows (or even quite a few eyebrows), leaving Maggie no option but to continue on as if nothing unusual had just happened; however, the clock kept ticking towards her twenty-first birthday (and final decision time). Determined to find her true calling, she pursued the field of medicine in each era and tried very hard to guard her heart in the process, but three men made that task particularly difficult. Would one of them prove to "be enough"?

Amazingly, this author has sewn together a trio of intriguing life spans into one very interesting story, recalling how all three time periods had very similar, yet singular challenges. One of my deepest impressions came while reading this particular conversation; "None of us are independent of the ones we love. We're woven together like a big tapestry, with each color unique and vibrant, but making a larger picture possible. You're woven right here for eternity."

And those three men? The ones who made Maggie's heart beat faster? Well . . . "when you know, you know".

*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 REVIEWS BY PAULA AND KIM!

BackCover Blurb:
Maggie inherited a gift from her time-crossing parents that allows her to live three separate lives in 1861, 1941, and 2001. Each night, she goes to sleep in one time period and wakes up in another. Until she turns twenty-one, when she will have to forfeit two of those lives--and everyone she knows in them--forever.

In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of a senator at the outbreak of the Civil War, navigating a capital full of Southern spies and wounded soldiers. In 1941, she is a navy nurse, grappling with her knowledge of the future when she joins a hospital ship going to Pearl Harbor. And in 2001, she's a brilliant young medical student, fulfilling her dream of becoming a surgeon.

While Maggie has sworn off romance until she makes her final choice, an intriguing man tugs at her heart in each era, only complicating the impossible decision she must make, which looms ever closer. With so much on the line, how can Maggie choose just one life to keep and the rest to lose? 

Bethany House, May 2, 2023

Available in digital ebook, paperback, or audiobook at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

 

 

UNDER FIRE by Lynn H. Blackburn, Reviewed by Nicole Cook #giveaway

Under Fire is the extremely satisfying conclusion to Lynn H. Blackburn's Defend and Protect series featuring the United States Secret Service. Lynn H. Blackburn is one of my favorite inspirational romantic suspense authors. I love that her books are typically about 50% suspense and 50% romance, and she allows her readers to connect to the characters in a way that not many authors can do.

Even though this book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the entire series to get more of the backstories of the supporting characters. I love how the Secret Service agents have formed a strong friendship and support each other, no matter what. Get ready for a wild ride as USSS Special Agent Zane Thacker returns to Raleigh to protect the President while USSS Special Agent Tessa Reed's past comes back to haunt her. Fans of Zane and Tessa's will not want to miss their story.

The ending gives readers a preview into her new series, and I cannot wait for more stories by Lynn H. Blackburn. Highly recommended.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

 

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

 

SEE REBECCA'S REVIEW AND ENTER OUR GIVEAWAY Which ends April 10th!

 

BackCover Blurb:
USSS Special Agent Zane Thacker has landed his dream assignment protecting the president of the United States. When the president plans a fundraiser at the exclusive estate of a political supporter in Raleigh, Zane is thrilled to be working again with Special Agent Tessa Reed, his best friend--and the woman he desperately wishes could be more.

Though Tessa almost lost everything, she battled her demons and came out on the other side healthy and healed. But when her role as the liaison between the Raleigh office and the president's protective detail wrenches her past back into the present, her greatest failure threatens to come to light.

Zane refuses to let Tessa go through this alone. But can he stand by the woman he loves and protect the president from a mounting threat at the same time?

Sparks fly as award-winning romantic suspense writer Lynn H. Blackburn closes out her Defend and Protect series with this explosive tale of secrets kept, lies exposed, and relationships restored. 

 

Revell Publishing, March 7, 2023

Available in digital and paperback

Buy UNDER FIRE at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

 

 

 

MEMORY LANE by Becky Wade, Reviewed by Nicole Cook

 

Memory Lane is a fantastic start to Becky Wade's new Sons of Scandal series. Becky Wade is a longtime favorite author of many readers in the inspirational contemporary romance genre. She continues her trademark romance, with fun banter, and a handsome hero who readers will fall in love with. Amnesia, an unsolved mystery, and a famous family who cannot escape the scandals that have followed them over the years...this novel is sure to be a hit with readers!

A light faith thread is woven throughout the storyline. The reason for my 4 star rating rather than my typical 5 stars for many of Becky Wade's books is due to the heroine Remy. Much like Finley (from her last novel Turn to Me), Remy is a bit too quirky for my taste, which made it difficult for me to relate to her. The Bradford Sisters will probably always be my favorite series of Becky Wade's, but I look forward to getting to know this unique cast of characters as well. The hero, Jeremiah Camden, and the rest of his "scandalous" family have found their place in my heart. I cannot wait for Jeremiah's FBI brother Jude to get his own story in book 2 of the Sons of Scandal series.

*I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

BackCover Blurb:
After surviving a trauma several years back, Remy Reed relocated to a cottage on one of Maine’s most remote islands. She’s arranged her life just the way she wants it, spending her time working on her wood sculptures and soaking in the beauty of nature. It’s quiet and solitary—until the day she spots something bobbing in the ocean.

Her binoculars reveal the “something” to be a man, and he’s struggling to keep his head above water. She races out to save him and brings him into her home. He’s injured, which doesn’t detract from his handsomeness nor make him any easier to bear. He acts like a duke who’s misplaced his dukedom . . . expensive tastes, lazy charm, bossy ideas.

Remy would love nothing more than to return him to his people, but he has no recollection of his life prior to the moment she rescued him. Though she’s not interested in relationships other than the safe ones she’s already established, she begins to realize that he’s coming to depend on her.

Who is he? What happened that landed him in the Atlantic Ocean? And why is she drawn to him more and more as time goes by?

There’s no way to discover those answers except to walk beside him down memory lane.

Travel to the rocky coast of Maine for "opposites attract" banter, witty humor, a fascinating mystery, and destiny-changing love. This sweet contemporary romance kicks off Becky Wade's new Sons of Scandal series!

February, 2023. Available in digital ebook or paperback at Amazon

 

DEAR BETH by Alyssa Schwarz, Reviews by Trixi and Nicole PLUS #Interview

Amidst the backdrop of a small town's quirky Valentine's Day tradition, Beth must decide if she is finally ready to risk her heart again with the man she once loved.

TRIXI'S REVIEW:
First of all, I HAD to find out if the Valentines re-mailing program was a real thing because what an awesome idea. Sure enough, I looked it up on the web and it IS real!! You can even buy an inscribed valentine card to send to your sweetheart or to others in the US. I love the idea of sending a special card via snail mail, we just don't do it enough anymore!

“You never know what God has waiting for you around the corner, but you have to be willing to look in order to find out what that is. ~Letter from a friend”

Okay so on to my review of this lovely book! I read Alyssa's debut The Glass Cottage and enjoyed it so much that I jumped at the chance to read another one of her stories. Was there anything I didn’t love about this? Absolutely not! The delightful characters...yes even those well-meaning matchmaker octogenarians Mavis, Edith, Irma, Harvey and Ed add their own special charm to an already charming love story. Beth is like a daughter to each one of them, and their misguided attempt to set her up with every eligible bachelor in town is for her best interest...or so they think! After all they only want the best for her, even if she gets exasperated at their meddling. However, she thwarts their well-intentioned plans by claiming to be dating Tye Prescott, who's back in town after three years. A second chance romance and a fake relationship story? Count me in double! These two are hilarious together, seriously one of the cutest fictional couples I've gotten to know. But then when real sparks fly and the old attraction to each other rekindles the fire, that's where the real romance story begins. There's also a more serious side to this when they both have to face some hard truths about the big break-up years ago. Working through the muck of the past will either glue them closer together or tear them apart even more.

I also absolutely love the quotes before each chapter, they certainly add to the story even more. If you're any kind of romance fan, I think you'll fall in love with this story of second chances and charming characters! There's also a good faith thread throughout that Christian fiction readers will find uplifting and encouraging.

P.S. The author even includes a recipe for Beth's favorite kind of hot chocolate with homemade raspberry marshmallows at the end!
*I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone. *

NICOLE'S REVIEW:
“He believed in second chances, believed God brought him back here for a reason. He only hoped it wasn’t too late to make things right with Beth.”

Author Alyssa Schwarz’s latest contemporary romance, Dear Beth, captivates her readers with a heartwarming tale of the power of true love and second chances through God’s never-ending love and grace. Her debut novel, The Glass Cottage, earned a place on my Top 10 Books of 2021, and with this prequel novella, Alyssa Schwarz has become one of my must-read authors.

Dear Beth incorporates the real-life Valentine’s Day tradition of the Loveland, Colorado valentine re-mailing program that people all over the world can participate in. This event has been going on for over 75 years, and the author shared that there is even up to a 10 year wait-list to become a stamper.

The letters penned in Dear Beth bring back a beautiful sense of nostalgia as letter writing has become almost a lost art in the 21st century with email, social media, and smartphones easily accessible for instant communication. With well-developed characters and a handsome hero to fall in love with, readers will be be rooting for Tye Prescott and Beth to get their happily-ever after. I can’t wait to read more of the Prescott Family romance series.

Dear Beth is highly recommended for fans of inspirational contemporary romance, especially for readers who enjoy novels by authors such as Denise Hunter, Becky Wade, Melissa Tagg, and Susan May Warren.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Back Cover Blurb:

After finishing his veterinarian training, Tye Prescott is back in Colorado and ready to give his relationship with Beth another chance, only she's made it very clear she wants nothing to do with him.

 

Beth Walsh is a hopeless romantic, except when it comes to her own love life. In her opinion, love is best left to the storybooks. But when a few nosy octogenarians decide to play matchmaker, she grasps for the only excuse she can think of to avoid another set up.

 

Set against the backdrop of Loveland's historic Valentine's Day letter re-mailing program, Tye and Beth must work together to convince the town of their rekindled romance. But Tye has his own plans of winning back the woman who got away.

 

Might it finally be time for Beth to risk her heart again?

January, 2022
Available in digital ebook and paperback at Amazon

AND NOW MORE WITH THE AUTHOR:

Deb: Hi Alyssa! We're so happy to have you back! How did you learn about the Valentine's Day Letter tradition, and can you explain a bit more about it?

Alyssa: When I was little, my grandma used to mail all her Valentine's Day cards to Loveland so everyone in the family received a letter with the town's special Valentine's Day cancellation stamp on the envelope. She kept this tradition up every year, and it was always something I looked forward to. Now, my mom and I have continued the tradition as a way to keep the family connected and to honor my grandma's memory.

This year, Loveland, CO (Known as the "Sweetheart City") will be celebrating 76 years of their Valentine letter re-mailing program. The tradition was started back in the late 1940's when Loveland's postmaster, Elmer Ivers, received a few dozen letters requesting the Loveland ("Love"-land) postmark as a creative way to celebrate the holiday. He liked the idea so much, he partnered with the Loveland stamp club and the owner of the local Rialto Theatre to begin their own Valentine re-mailing program, complete with its own cancelation stamp. Every year, the design changes to include a new locally-submitted drawing and poem. Today, this program sees over 100,000 valentines from over 110 countries (spanning from Denmark, to China, to Japan) and employs 50 volunteers every year to sort and stamp all the letters.

To learn more or participate in this fun tradition, check out this link to a local news release about this year's events: https://www.9news.com/article/life/style/colorado-guide/loveland-valentine/73-91d5bc5d-4b23-4952-894d-5c4b8071d958

Deb: That is really sweet! No wonder you wanted to write about it! Tell me, how has writing a second book or novella in this series felt differently than working on a debut?

Alyssa: This novella was a lot of fun to write, and I loved getting to research and learn more about some of my home-state's quirky traditions. When I wrote my debut novel last year, that was the only thing I was working on. Having never published something before, I didn't realize how much time I would spend on editing, marketing, and design, but there is always something new to learn!

Deb: (sighs) Yes. I think readers are beginning to understand how much of being an author extends past 'writing'! If you wrote a single time-line, do you think you'd go with contemporary or historical settings?

Alyssa: Aside from The Glass Cottage, the rest of the Prescott Family Romance series will have a contemporary setting. I do have a few other ideas in the works once this series is completed, and they may include a historical setting or two.

Deb: Wonderful news for your readers! Thanks so much for visiting with us, and best wishes for this great series and all to come!

IN SEARCH OF A PRINCE by Toni Shiloh, Reviewed and INTERVIEWED! by Nicole Cook #ReleaseDay

 It seems like a dream come true . . . until it forces her to question everything. 

Nicole Cook: I am thrilled to have author Toni Shiloh join us today at Inkwell Inspirations to discuss her latest contemporary romance, In Search of a Prince. This novel releases on February 1st. I have been a huge fan of Toni Shiloh’s books for several years, and I am honored to help her celebrate her first release with Bethany House Publishers. If you have not read any of Toni Shiloh’s books yet, I strongly recommend In Search of a Prince or any of the books from her backlist. Some of my other personal favorites are her Maple Run series and her Faith & Fortune series.

Toni, thank you so much for joining us today! It's #ReleaseDay!!

Toni Shiloh: Thank you so much for having me!

Nicole: Your novels bring a much-needed diversity to Christian fiction and always incorporate beautiful spiritual truths that encourage me to dig deeper into my faith. What message or inspiration do you hope that readers will get from reading In Search of a Prince?

Toni: That God knows every step before you and already has a plan for every step.

Nicole: In Search of a Prince takes readers to the breathtaking island of Ọlọrọ Ilé, off the coast of Africa, complete with handsome heroes for us to swoon over. Do you have any inspiration photos of the characters that you can share with us? I always love comparing how the author sees the characters compared to how I imagine them myself.

Toni: I always love seeking out inspiration photos before I write. It helps the characters come alive for me. For Brielle Adebayo, I pictured Aja Naomi King as inspiration. For the king, I imagined Delroy Lindo. My Pinterest board is full of inspiration photos if you’d like to stop by and see them. https://www.pinterest.com/ToniShiloh/in-search-of-a-prince

Nicole: Your novels up to this point have been all contemporary romances or chick lit. Do you also prefer to read those genres yourself or do you read in a variety of genres? Who are some of your favorite Christian fiction authors you would like to recommend to our readers?

Toni: I read in so many genres because I’m a fast reader, but I do love it if the book has a thread of romance in it. Some of my favorite authors are Sarah Monzon, Becky Wade, Ronie Kendig, Elizabeth Maddrey, Kristi Ann Hunter, Vanessa Riley, Piper Huguley. Those authors--I have probably read all of their books.

Nicole: Can you give readers any inside info about book 2 in the series, To Win a Prince? I know readers will be eagerly waiting to read it.

Toni: To Win a Prince takes us on the journey of the best friend, Iris Blakely. She’s started a business in the country and deals with that transition as well as matters of the heart. 

Nicole: Toni, thank you again for joining us today! This has been such a pleasure to chat with you.

Toni: It’s been my pleasure. I really appreciate you having me today. ___________________________________________________________________________

NICOLE’S REVIEW:
In this modern-day fairy tale with a gorgeous African princess, set on the breathtaking African island of Ọlọrọ Ilé, author Toni Shiloh immediately draws readers in and keeps them fully invested in the storyline until the very last page.

Imagine living the first twenty-five years of your life as a typical American, then finding out that you are really an African princess, and your grandfather the King is dying and needs you to take over the throne. Sounds like a dream come true, but having to learn a new culture, a new language, and gaining the acceptance of Ọlọrọ Ilé’s citizens may be more difficult than Her Royal Highness Princess Brielle originally thought.

Toni Shiloh continues to bring a much-needed diversity to Christian fiction. She incorporates the characters’ faith authentically into the storyline throughout their daily lives and reminds us of God’s faithfulness and to always trust in Him.

In Search of a Prince is highly recommended for readers of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy books by authors such as Becky Wade, Denise Hunter, and Melissa Tagg.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine. Strong faith thread.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
It seems like a dream come true . . . until it forces her to question everything.

Brielle Adebayo is fully content teaching at a New York City public school and taking annual summer vacations with her mother to Martha's Vineyard. But everything changes when her mom drops a bombshell--Brielle is really a princess in the island kingdom of Ọlọrọ Ilé, off the coast of Africa, and she must immediately assume her royal position, since the health of her grandfather, the king, is failing.

Distraught by all the secrets her mother kept, Brielle is further left spinning when the Ọlọrọ Ilé Royal Council brings up an old edict that states she must marry before her coronation, or the crown will pass to another. Brielle is uncertain if she even wants the throne, and with her world totally shaken, where will she find the courage to take a chance on love and brave the perils a wrong decision may bring? 

Bethany House Publishers, February, 2022 

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

Buy IN SEARCH OF A PRINCE at Amazon, Christianbook.com, Baker Book House  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and multi-published Christian contemporary romance author. She writes to bring God glory and to learn more about His goodness. Her novels, Grace Restored, was a 2019 Holt Medallion finalist, Risking Love a 2020 Selah Award finalist, The Truth About Fame a 2021 Holt Medallion finalist, and The Price of Dreams a 2021 Maggie Award finalist.

A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and of the Virginia Chapter, Toni seeks to encourage authors in the writing industry. She loves connecting with readers and authors alike via social media. You can learn more about her writing at http://tonishiloh.com.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/authortonishiloh
Twitter: www.twitter.com/tonishilohwrite
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/tonishiloh
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/tonishiloh
Instagram: www.instagram.com/tonishiloh
BookBub: https://bookbub.com/authors/toni-shiloh

 

 

THE CEO'S COMPANION by Rose Fresquez, Reviewed by Nicole Cook #ReleaseDay

In The CEO’s Companion, author Rose Fresquez creates another beautiful faith-filled contemporary romance that will draw readers closer to their faith. With an engaging storyline and authentic characters, this heartwarming tale of finding one’s purpose and discovering true love is a delight to read.

After the struggles and heartache CEO Eric Stone has faced in his life, it would be understandable for him to doubt his faith. However, despite difficult times, his trials have eventually helped strengthen his faith and his desire to help others realize God’s grace. The romance between Eric and Joy develops at a realistic pace and allows readers to experience the journey along with them.

The CEO’s Companion is recommended for readers of inspirational contemporary romance.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine. Strong faith content.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Despair held him captive. Can her love break his chains?

After a deadly fire robbed him of his wife and children, billionaire Eric Stone clings to God and buries himself in work to distract himself from his grief. But when a mysterious illness takes away his ability to work, Eric must retreat to his childhood home to rest and recover. Grief-stricken and hopeless, he is irritated by his new care taker’s enthusiasm for life. But against his will, her sunny outlook makes inroads.

Joy got a new lease on life after beating cancer four years ago. Now, she lives every day to serve God and others. In her opinion, the grumpy CEO she is caring for doesn’t need her sympathy—but making him smile is her priority.

When she asks him to attend a wedding with her to avoid the matchmaking efforts of her roommate, Eric surprises himself by agreeing to pose as her fake date to shield her from a pushy suitor. As unexpected sparks fly, Eric’s and Joy’s hearts are trapped between what’s fake and what’s real. Could this weekend be their chance for a new beginning?

The CEO's Companion : A Slow Burn Christian Contemporary workplace Romance (BWWM)

This is the fourth standalone book in the caregiver series. Each book can be read in any order.
Books in the series
1. The Doctor's Nanny
2. The Entrepreneur's Nurse
3.The Physician's Helper
4. The CEO's Companion
5. The Investor's Wife
6. The Soldier's Trainer
7. The Realtor's Attendant

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rose Fresquez is a stay-at-home mom, with a husband and four kids. In her free time, she likes to spend time outdoors with the family, sing gospel music and plotting her next writing project.

Rose’s writing projects include both Christian non-fiction and Christian fiction.

THE WINTER ROSE by Melanie Dobson, Reviewed by Nicole Cook #ReleaseDay

“Jesus had loved with His whole life. To His death. But death didn’t stop it. His love spread like dandelions, she thought, the seeds scattering across grassy plains and forgotten weeds and rocky terrain, the healing blossoms growing in the hardest places. Like the winter rose in the mountains.”

Award-winning author Melanie Dobson’s latest time-slip novel is one that readers will not want to miss. The Winter Rose focuses on the Quakers’ role of helping rescue Jewish children during World War II and how the children’s experiences would affect the rest of their lives. I always learn something new when reading Melanie Dobson’s books, and this one is no different. The rich historical details incorporated into the storyline and the agony and emotions these individuals experienced was so profound and heart wrenching. Both the historical and contemporary storylines captured my interest equally, and the way the two storylines came together at the conclusion was a surprise.

The Winter Rose is a story of hope and redemption during even the darkest of times. With all the struggles our society is currently facing during these difficult times, the message of “God’s redemption in our broken world” is both relevant and appropriate. The beautiful spiritual truths throughout Melanie Dobson’s books always draw me deeper into my faith. The Winter Rose is highly recommended for fans of World War II fiction and readers who enjoy time-slip and women’s fiction novels.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
In this gripping WWII time-slip novel from the author whose books have been called “propulsive” and a “must-read” (Publishers Weekly), Grace Tonquin is an American Quaker who works tirelessly in Vichy France to rescue Jewish children from the Nazis. After crossing the treacherous Pyrénées, Grace returns home to Oregon with a brother and sister whose parents were lost during the war. Though Grace and her husband love Élias and Marguerite as their own, echoes of Grace’s past and trauma from the Holocaust tear the Tonquin family apart.

More than fifty years after they disappear, Addie Hoult arrives at Tonquin Lake, hoping to find the Tonquin family. For Addie, the mystery is a matter of life and death for her beloved mentor Charlie, who is battling a genetic disease. Though Charlie refuses to discuss his ties to the elusive Tonquins, finding them is the only way to save his life and mend the wounds from his broken past.

Tyndale Publishing, January, 2022

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

Buy THE WINTER ROSE at Amazon, Christianbook.com, and Baker Book House

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melanie Dobson is the award-winning author of more than twenty historical romance, suspense, and time-slip novels. Five of her novels have won Carol Awards; Catching the Wind and Memories of Glass were nominated for a Christy Award in the historical fiction category; and Catching the Wind won an Audie Award in the inspirational fiction category. The Black Cloister, her novel about a religious cult, won the Foreword magazine Religious Fiction Book of the Year.

Melanie is the previous corporate publicity manager at Focus on the Family, owner of the publicity firm Dobson Media Group, and a former adjunct professor at George Fox University. When she isn't writing, Melanie enjoys teaching a variety of workshops.

Melanie and her husband, Jon, have two daughters. After moving numerous times with work, the Dobson family has settled near Portland, Oregon, and they love to hike and camp in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest and along the Pacific Coast. Melanie also enjoys exploring ghost towns and abandoned homes, helping care for kids in her community, and creating stories with her girls.

Visit Melanie online at www.melaniedobson.com.

SUNRISE by Susan May Warren, Reviewed by Kim, Nicole, and Rebecca #ReleaseDay

Book One of the Sky King Ranch Series

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"It's love breaking through."

"Sunrise" is many things. It's a really good book by a beloved author of numerous titles, it's also a dare to forgive, even when you understandably don't want to, it's most certainly a reminder that God's plans are often misunderstood just before His providence dawns crystal clear; perhaps best of all, it is a nudge to bask in the sunrise that illuminates even the darkest of skies, "love breaking through".

Obviously, these life lessons are clothed in flesh and blood. Meet Dodge Kingston, former Air Force hero with uncertain plans, coming back to a place he never expected to return; home. And Echo Yazzie, who stayed at home to homestead with her father while serving as a research guide in the wide open spaces near Anchorage, Alaska. She never expected to see Dodge Kingston again . . . or maybe somewhere deep down inside, a flame of hope remained that their paths might cross once again. And they did. Boy, did they ever.

Enjoy this reunion romance with all of its ups and downs, high points and pitfalls, promises and uncertainties. There's danger around just about every corner, on both land and sky, but the landing . . .  the landing is one that was always meant to be, for "what if we judged God by what didn't happen to us?".
*I received a copy of this book from the Baker Publishing Group through Interviews and Reviews. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

KIM'S REVIEW:
Sunrise is the first story in Susan May Warren’s new series. This story has a little bit of everything! It’s full of adventure (there may be a grizzly or two!), suspense, lots of family drama, romance and a wonderfully cold setting that will have you shivering while reading.

Dodge and Echo’s story was very deep, layered and complicated with outside influences. I was rooting for them to talk things over and build their relationship back to where it was. I did feel like it took a bit too long for them to start working on their relationship and then the resolution seemed really quick. I wanted more page time with them in the first half.

The relationship between Dodge and his two brothers, who are triplets, is kind of messy (that’s actually an understatement!) and I can’t wait to see how their relationship heals as the series progresses!

There is a wonderful faith thread throughout this story about forgiveness and trusting God with His answers, which may be different than what we ask for or want. Lately, in Christian fiction, I feel like the faith thread has been either weak or nonexistent, so I really appreciated that there was a strong message in this story!

I’m looking forward to reading Ranger and Colt’s stories and seeing how the relationships between the triplets are mended.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is prevalent.

NICOLE'S REVIEW:
Get ready to meet the handsome Kingston brothers in Susan May Warren’s new Sky King Ranch series. These triplets are the younger brothers of Larke Kingston, who longtime readers may remember from the Summer of the Burning Sky series. This is the perfect time for anyone who has never read any of Susan May Warren’s books to jump right in with book one of this new series. Sunrise ends with unanswered questions that leave the readers eagerly anticipating book two of the series (Sunburst).

Everything I love about Susan May Warren’s books is evident in Sunrise…a strong, handsome hero with a military background, fast-paced action filled with danger, family drama, and a swoony romance. The publisher classifies it as contemporary romance, but it is so much more than your typical contemporary romance. Sunrise made my top 10 list of 2021 (since I was blessed with the opportunity to read an advanced copy prior to its release).

As readers follow the Kingston triplets throughout the series, it will be fun to see who they pick as their favorite Kingston brother. Sunrise is highly recommended for readers of action filled contemporary romance.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

BackCover Blurb:
Coming home was never the plan

After a terrible family fight, pilot Dodge Kingston left home to join the Air Force. A decade later, he's headed back to the destiny that awaits him as heir to Sky King Ranch. But that's not all that's waiting for him at home.

Echo Yazzie is a true Alaskan woman--a homesteader, dogsledder, and research guide for the DNR. After her childhood best friend and former flame, Dodge, fled Denali, she settled into life on the Alaskan range. She's made her peace with being left behind--by her mother and by Dodge. And she's strong enough to live without them.

When one of Echo's fellow researchers goes missing, Echo sets out to find her, despite a blizzard, a rogue grizzly haunting the woods, and the biting cold. What she doesn't know is that there are more than just the regular dangers of the Alaskan forests stalking her . . .

As Dodge sets out to find Echo, he can't ignore the feelings he still has for her. But will he be able to find her in time? And if he does, is there still room for him in her heart?

Revell Books, January, 2022

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

Buy SUNRISE at Amazon, Christianbook.com, or Baker Book House

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 85 novels with more than 1 million books sold, including the Global Search and Rescue and the Montana Rescue series, as well as Sunrise. Winner of a RITA Award and multiple Christy and Carol Awards, as well as the HOLT Medallion and numerous Readers' Choice Awards, Susan makes her home in Minnesota. Find her online at www.susanmaywarren.com, on Facebook @SusanMayWarrenFiction, and on Twitter @SusanMayWarren.

 

NEVER LEAVE ME by Jody Hedlund, Reviewed by Paula and Nicole

NICOLE'S REVIEW:
Another incredible 5-star novel by Jody Hedlund! This time-travel romance will appeal to a wide range of readers, with storylines taking place both in contemporary and historical times. Even if you do not think you are a fan of time-travel romances, you will be after reading this series! Readers will want to start with Come Back to Me (book one in the Waters of Time series) to achieve maximum enjoyment of the plot lines and to fully understand the background of the characters. The series has such an interesting premise with holy water being able to heal any disease and being a means to cross time for others.

Much like book one in the series, Never Leave Me keeps readers fully invested in the storyline. The beautiful messages of faith incorporated throughout the novel, sizzling romance, and a captivating journey to the Middle Ages filled with danger, intrigue, and suspense make this a must-read novel. The storyline begins about a year after book one ends, with Ellen Creighton and Harrison Burlington taking center stage this time around. It is fascinating to read how the contemporary characters experience life in the Middle Ages and the author’s authenticity in creating the characters.

If you ever watched the time-travel TV show, Timeless, which was on NBC a few years ago, you will definitely enjoy this series.

Never Leave Me is highly recommended for fans of time-travel romance, contemporary romance, and historical romance. I did not want this book to end or have to say goodbye to this wonderful cast of characters. Jody Hedlund…if you see this, please, please, please, write book three to complete the series!!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
What an incredible follow up to Come Back to Me.

We now encounter Ellen Creighton as she is ravaged with a rare disease and cancer. Her trusted friend, wheelchair bound Harrison Burlington, a wealthy nobleman, has tried to make her last days as comfortable as possible while trying to keep his love for her a secret. After a miraculous recovery for both of them, they are still searching for the source of the holy water and the whereabouts of Ellen’s sister and father. But evil thwarts their plans and puts everyone in danger. They ponder if they are worthy caretakers of this secret. “In their quest for the holy water, had they unearthed something God had not wanted them to disturb? While healing and health were incredible gifts, was healing always the best course, or did the suffering and hardship that came with disease serve a purpose, too.”

Lots of intrigue in this well written time travel tale. The main characters shine with their selflessness. Harrison is the best kind of hero. He is kind, thoughtful and has integrity. And Ellen has some self realization as she grows closer to Harrison: “Courage. Instead of always giving up or running away in fear, maybe it was time to pray that she could face the uncertainty of the future with courage.”

Suspend belief and enjoy this captivating book!
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through Interviews and Reviews, on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. *5 stars and an underlying faith thread

ABOUT THE BOOK
Facing death takes courage. Facing life takes even more.

In the last stages of a genetic disease, Ellen Creighton has decided to live out her remaining days at the estate of her longtime friend Harrison Burlington. Though he's never allowed himself to get serious in a relationship due to his paralysis, Harrison cares deeply for Ellen and is desperately trying to save her life by finding the holy water that is believed to heal any disease--the same substance Ellen suspects is responsible for the deaths of her father and sister.

But Harrison is not the only one seeking the holy water. Dangerous criminals are mere steps behind, and Ellen soon learns they will go to any lengths to get the powerful drug--including sending her back into the past to locate it for them.

Bestselling and award-winning author Jody Hedlund plunges you into the swiftly flowing river of history in this second breathtaking Waters of Time story.

Revell Books, January 2022

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

Buy NEVER LEAVE ME at Amazon, Christianbook.com, or Baker Book House

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jody Hedlund (www.jodyhedlund.com) is the bestselling author of over 30 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats.