BREAK MY FALL by Lynn Blackburn, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #PartnersInCrime tour

BREAK MY FALL

by Lynn H. Blackburn

March 17 - 28, 2025 Virtual Book Tour

Synopsis:

Gossamer Falls

 

She’s determined to make an impact in her community.
He’s determined to make sure she lives long enough to do it.

Dr. Meredith Quinn always planned to return to Gossamer Falls to practice dentistry. Now that she’s back home, she’s made it a point to offer clinics to children and adults in nearby underserved areas. Unfortunately, those same areas are known to harbor drug traffickers, and Police Chief Grayson Ward suspects that local law enforcement is looking the other way.

After too many losses, Grayson has closed off his heart. But with Meredith in his life, he feels his walls crumbling, leaving him exposed and vulnerable. To keep her alive, he must keep her close, but that makes it impossible for him to retreat and rebuild.

Will she be the one who finally helps him emerge from isolation? Or will this force of nature leave him shattered?

Praise for Never Fall Again:

"The start to Blackburn’s new Gossamer Falls inspirational thriller series is an exciting story of difficult truths and second chances."
~ Booklist

"Romance, danger, and deadly crime-fighting scenes make this a perfect read."
~ The AR Critique

Book Details:

Genre: Christian Fiction/Romantic Suspense
Published by: Revell
Publication Date: March 18, 2025
Number of Pages: 352
ISBN: 9780800745370
Series: Gossamer Falls, Book 2
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | ChristianBook | Goodreads | Baker Book House

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Return to Gossamer Falls, North Carolina where the Quinn family takes care of its own. Dr. Meredith uses her mobile dental clinic to help the needy in the next county over. But what she observes is abuse, neglect, possible corruption and drug running. Police Chief Gray Ward wants to protect her and hopes for a closer relationship. When danger stalks them they are determined to bring it to a halt.

This is more than a gripping suspense story. It showcases a godly, close-knit family who takes care of each other and has a sense of community. The connection of Meredith, brother Mo, cousin Cal and best friend Bronwyn is lifelong and full of memories of adventures. When you add in Gray as the romantic interest, his personality is revealed and how much he cared for Meredith is portrayed. I would not mind some of the thoughtful gifts he gives her.

The plot had harrowing episodes that built to an exciting climax. We even see a few characters from previous books pop in. I cannot wait to return to Gossamer Falls and I will guess that the story will include a renewed relationship between Bronwyn and Mo.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through PICT tours and NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and a solid faith thread

Read an excerpt from Break My Fall:

 

 

Author Bio:

Lynn H. Blackburn is the award-winning author of Never Fall Again, as well as the Dive Team Investigations and Defend and Protect series. She loves writing swoon-worthy Southern suspense because her childhood fantasy was to become a spy, but her grown-up reality is that she’s a huge chicken and would have been caught on her first mission. She prefers to live vicariously through her characters by putting them into terrifying situations while she sits at home in her pajamas. She lives in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with her true love, Brian, and their three children.

Learn more at:

LynnHBlackburn.com
Amazon Author Profile
Goodreads - @lynnhugginsblackburn
BookBub - @LynnHBlackburn
Instagram - @LynnHBlackburn
X - @LynnHBlackburn
Facebook - @LynnHBlackburn

Subscribe to Lynn's Newsletter

 

 

Tour Participants:

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THE LAST FASHION HOUSE IN PARIS by Renee Ryan, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #NewRelease

PAULA'S REVIEW:
I have read another book by this author and was pleased to see characters from that book included here. I got to see a bit more of their story. This author told a great tale of French Resistance and transporting people out of enemy occupation.

It seemed that I was right there with Paulette as she sought refuge with Mme Ballard in a famous Paris Fashion House under German rule. Lots of danger and intrigue as Paulette not only proved herself as a seamstress but as a person who guided refugees to safety. All to make up for a horrible mistake that had her banished from her home. She made a friend in Nicolle and was soon embroiled in subterfuge in order to help the helpless.

A fascinating look into WWII occupation in Paris. There are a few romances depicted that bloomed despite the problem of not knowing who to trust.

This was an interesting and engrossing trip back in history. I enjoyed it very much.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Love Inspired Trade via NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a faint faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
In the heart of occupied WWII Paris, an elegant fashion house is the unlikely headquarters of a daring resistance network. Behind closed doors, courageous women vie to save loved ones and strangers alike from the Nazis in this powerful story of survival, friendship and second chances.

France, 1942

Once, Paulette Leblanc spent her days flirting, shopping and drawing elegant dresses in her sketch pad. Then German tanks rolled into France, and a reckless romance turned into deep betrayal. Blaming herself for her mother’s arrest by the Gestapo, Paulette is sent away to begin a new life in Paris, working as apprentice to fashion designer Sabine Ballard.

But Maison de Ballard is no ordinary fashion house. While seamstresses create the perfect couture gowns, clandestine deals and secrets take place out of sight. Mademoiselle Ballard is head of a vast network of resistance fighters—including Paulette’s coworker and friend Nicolle Cadieux—who help escort downed military men and Jewish families to safety.

Soon Paulette is recruited as a spy. Working as a seamstress by day, gathering information at glamorous parties by night, Paulette at last has a chance to earn the redemption she craves. But as the SS closes in, and Nicolle goes missing, Paulette must make life-and-death decisions about who to trust, who to love and who to leave behind…

Love Inspired Trade, December, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and audiobook:

Buy THE LAST FASHION HOUSE IN PARIS at Amazon or Christianbook .com

THE LAST CHANCE COWBOY by Jody Hedlund, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

It has been a wild ride through the lives of the McQuaids and the Colorado Cowboys series.

Take one reformed bad boy, a baby he did not know about and a compassionate midwife and Dylan is determined to do the right thing: Marry Catherine, whom he thinks is the girl he left in Chicago. Catherine accepts because she is running from false accusations.

Dylan is repentant and wants to follow the will of God. As sheriff, he has a wise and godly deputy, Stu: “When we do what is right, then we can trust the good Lord for the outcome.”

Catherine is an experienced but young midwife and proves herself worthy in this marriage of convenience story. But love naturally follows as does danger. Cue the McQuaid brothers to help with villains and cattle rustlers.

“When a McQuaid man loves a woman, there is no going back. It’s fast, furious, and forever.”

Ms. Hedlund has penned an exciting and adventurous tale with relatable characters and moral lessons in a winsome story.

A fitting conclusion to a fantastic series.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*4 stars and a solid faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
With danger drawing ever closer, their only hope of saving their futures lies in each other.

As a midwife, Catherine Remington is successful in bringing new life into the world, but she's failed one too many times in finding true love. When she's accused of a murder she didn't commit, she's forced to flee to Colorado to honor a patient's dying wish by delivering a newborn infant to his father.

The repentant prodigal Dylan McQuaid is finally back in Fairplay. As sheriff, he's doing his best to prove to the town he's a changed man and worthy of their trust. When a woman shows up with an infant son he didn't know he had, Dylan is left with only complicated choices on what to do next.

Having grown attached to Dylan's son, Catherine doesn't want to part ways with the infant, but what she doesn't bargain for is how easily she'll fall for the charming sheriff, or how quickly the past will catch up with her and put their love and lives in danger.

Bethany House Publishing, February, 2023

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

Buy THE LAST CHANCE COWBOY at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

 

THE DEBUTANTE'S CODE by Erica Vetsch, BLOG TOUR AND #GIVEAWAY hosted and reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

PAULA'S REVIEW:

This is Erica Vetsch at her very best. Absolutely everything that I love in a Regency mystery is in this story. It is satisfying, yet it whets my appetite for more.

What is a debutante to do when she returns home after seven years to find her parents gone? She doesn’t know if they are in danger or just too preoccupied to care about her. When Juliette and Uncle Bertie are present at events where items are stolen, they are suspected by a detective, Daniel Swann. “The detective was handsome and interesting...and dangerous. He stirred in Juliette feelings of excitement tinged with guilt. His purpose was to dig out secrets and hers was to keep them hidden.”

Daniel has secrets of his own that have direct bearing on his past and his future.

Full of intrigue and clues to keep you guessing, this was an excellent start to a new series. I loved the disguises and the codes hidden in unlikely places, it reminded me of a Sherlock Holmes mystery. The characters were interesting and well represented. The plot was complex but moved at a pace that kept me turning pages.

With one mystery solved, there are still things unfinished, namely what is going to happen on Daniel’s next birthday? His fate awaits in the next book. Too bad I have to wait til next year to find out!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel as a participant in the I Read With Audra Jennings book tour. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*I give this 5 stars and a solid faith thread.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Jane Austen meets Sherlock Holmes in this new Regency mystery series

 

Newly returned from finishing school, Lady Juliette Thorndike is ready to debut in London society. Due to her years away, she hasn't spent much time with her parents, and sees them only as the flighty, dilettante couple the other nobles love.But when they disappear, she discovers she never really knew them at all. They've been living double lives as government spies--and they're only the latest in a long history of espionage that is the family's legacy.

 

Now Lady Juliette is determined to continue their work. Mentored by her uncle, she plunges into the dangerous world of spies. From the glittering ballrooms of London to the fox hunts, regattas, and soirees of country high society, she must chase down hidden clues, solve the mysterious code her parents left behind, and stay out of danger. All the while, she has to keep her endevors a secret from her best friend and her suitors--not to mention the nosy, irritatingly handsome Bow Street runner, who suspects her of a daring theft.

 

Can Lady Juliette outwit her enemies and complete her parents' last mission?

 

Best-selling author Erica Vetsch is back with a rollicking, exciting new series destined to be a hit with Regency readers who enjoy a touch of mystery in their love stories. Fans of Julie Klassen, Sarah Ladd, and Anne Perry will love the wit, action, and romance.

 

Kregel Publishing, December 7, 2021

 
Click here to read an excerpt.

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling and ACFW Carol Award–winning author. She is a transplanted Kansan now living in Minnesota with her husband, who she claims is both her total opposite and soul mate.

Vetsch is the author of many novellas and novels, including the popular Serendipity & Secrets Regency series and the new Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery series

Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum and cheering on her Kansas Jayhawks and New Zealand All Blacks.

Learn more about Erica Vetsch and her books at www.ericavetsch.com. She can also be found on Facebook (@EricaVetschAuthor), Instagram (@EricaVetsch) and Pinterest (Erica Vetsch).

CAN'T BUY ME LOVE by Andrea Christenson, a JustRead Tour hosted and reviewed by Nicole Cook.

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Can't Buy Me Love by Andrea Christenson presented by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Can't Buy Me Love
Series: Deep Haven Collection #2
Author: Andrea Christenson presented by Susan May Warren
Publisher: Sunrise Publishing 
Release Date: March 16, 2021
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

He can’t buy his way out of trouble this time…

Housekeeper-slash-entrepreneur Ella Bradley prides herself on being ready for anything. After all, with a father who died—and lied to her—and a stepmom and stepsister who despise her, she has no one else to depend on. But on the biggest night of her life, she’s unprepared to be trapped in an elevator with the man of her dreams. 

Wealthy prince-to-a-fortune Adrian Vassos wants nothing more than to shed his reputation as a party boy and prove that he is a savvy businessman. Even, a gentleman. But when he’s trapped with a woman who knows his reputation but not his face, he gives into the temptation to be someone else—and lies. 

When serendipity brings them together again—this time to work off community service—can their combined sentences spark a new ending? Maybe…if Adrian’s lies don’t find him out. Again. 

The magic of Deep Haven enchants in this modern-day Cinderella story.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound | BookBub

BOOKS IN THIS SERIES

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

 

Susan May Warren is the USA Today best-selling novelist of 80 books. With more than 1.5 million books in print, she is beloved by reviewers and readers around the world. Visit Susan at www.susanmaywarren.com.

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Andrea Christenson lives in a Minneapolis, MN suburb with her husband and two daughters. When she is not busy homeschooling her girls, she loves to read anything she can get her hands on. She believes that a great loaf of artistic bread can turn a meal into a masterpiece. Andrea’s prayer is to write stories revealing God’s love.

CONNECT WITH ANDREA: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

 Merging the creative energies of best-selling authors Susan May Warren and Lindsay Harrel, Sunrise Publishing is the matchmaker for established authors who want to build on their current success for future growth and aspiring authors looking to break out, build an audience, and hone their writing skills.

CONNECT WITH SUNRISE: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | admin@sunrisepublishing.com

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $15 Amazon gift card + 3 Can't Buy Me Love ebooks (one ebook for the winner and two to give to friends)!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 16, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on March 23, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

NICOLE'S REVIEW:
Return to the wonderful town of Deep Haven in Andrea Christenson's debut novel, Can't Buy Me Love. With many familiar residents of Deep Haven making cameo appearances, longtime fans of Susan May Warren's will not want their journey back to Deep Haven to end.

Readers will enjoy meeting housekeeper Ella Bradley and her chance encounter with wealthy Adrian Vassos. Suddenly their lives intersect again in a surprising turn of events that neither one expect. This modern day Cinderella tale is complete with a cruel stepmother and stepsister, and readers will be rooting for Ella and Adrian to get their happy ending.

Can't Buy Me Love is recommended for readers of contemporary romance.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

 

 

A HAVEN FOR HER HEART by Susan Anne Mason, Reviewed by Winnie, Paula and Rebecca

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
Set in Toronto, Canada around 1940, A Haven for Her Heart is a poignant, heart-wrenching story of redemption, forgiveness, and healing. Based on actual happenings, this story is a little grittier than Susan Anne Mason’s other books, but she writes sensitively about the horrors that happened to some young women who were incarcerated at a reformatory for women.

Upon her release from the reformatory, Olivia Rosetti is trying to restart her life, but no one will hire her. Destitute and ill, she is befriended by Ruth Bennington who gives her a place to stay. Together they plan to open a maternity home for women who have nowhere to go. I admired Olivia’s pluck and compassion for those down on their luck.

 

Darius Reed is a wonderful, caring hero. A Greek widower, he wants to raise his young daughter as a Canadian and combat prejudice. With his integrity conflicting with his employer, he has some big decisions to make.

 

With these two engaging, emotionally-layered main characters, and a wonderful cast of colorful secondary characters, Mason has created a captivating and gripping story that kept me turning pages. Faith elements are seamlessly incorporated into the storyline and add depth and dimension to the tale. This is the first book in Mason’s Redemption’s Light series, and I’m anxiously waiting for the rest of the series.

*4.5 stars. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:

From the lovely cover, aptly depicting Olivia Rosetti, to the profound spiritual truth in the story, Ms. Mason crafts a bittersweet story.

 

Disowned by her family, Olivia is in a church when Ruth Bennington takes pity on her and gives her sanctuary. Together they work to open a maternity home for unfortunate women. There is opposition to overcome and a hungry property developer to thwart. But God works in His own way and His own time. It does not hurt Olivia to have a brother who is a priest. 

 

Pastor Sal addresses the town council: 

* Two of the most powerful mandates Jesus gave us are -Judge not, that ye be not judged- and- Do unto others as you would have them do to you.- These are not mere platitudes. These are the cornerstones of our faith, the very foundations of what we are called to do as Christians.

* Nor does it hurt to have handsome widower, Darius Reed concerned with her welfare, although Darius has some soul-searching of his own to do.

 

This is a very fine start to the new series Redemption’s Light. I look forward to reading the next book.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* I give this book 4 stars. It has a strong faith thread. 

 

REBECCA'S REVIEW:

"God wouldn't want you to remain a prisoner of your shame, Olivia. Be brave enough to claim the happiness He has in store for you."

Olivia Rosetti has remained a prisoner to her own guilt and remorse long after her release from a women's reformatory; a result of her father's cruel decision to have her arrested under a seldom used Females Refuge Act indicting unwed mothers. Being deserted by her family and having lost her newborn son to the authorities, Olivia is providentially introduced to another woman, much older, whose love for life has grown dim and without purpose. Together Olivia and Ruth Bennington form an unlikely alliance, transforming Ruth's residence into a maternity home for troubled women.

 

Working for a high profile real estate developer, Darius Reed is tasked with unearthing some reason for the city of Toronto to close down 

Bennington Place, the property is strategically located and there are already neighbors are callous to its mission. But when Darius meets the enigmatic Olivia Rosette, he has a hard time keeping his mind focused on business. What is a lovely woman like Olivia doing in a home for women of questionable repute? And why is even thinking about it? He is a man engaged to another.

 

On the surface, "A Haven for Her Heart" is a really good story; on a much deeper level it's an outstanding well of inspirational truth. The history is appalling, the characters are broken and flawed, the scenario could quite possibly happen and does happen in many forms today making it quite authentic; and challenging for the hearts and minds of its readers to comprehend. What does forgiveness really look like?

"Two of the most important mandates Jesus gives us are 'Judge not, that ye be not judged', and 'Do unto others as you would have them do to you'. These are not mere platitudes. They are the cornerstone of our faith." *I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

 

BackCover Blurb:

Homeless after being released from a women's reformatory in 1939
Toronto, Olivia Rosetti is taken in by an angel of mercy, Ruth Bennington. The two discover they share a painful past and together decide to open a maternity home for troubled women.

Despite the success of the home, Olivia is haunted by her inhumane treatment at the reformatory and the way her newborn son was taken from her. She feels undeserving of love--until she meets businessman Darius Reed. Although his attention makes her heart soar, he can never learn of her past.

Greek widower Darius Reed is determined to protect his daughter from the prejudice that killed her mother. He'll ensure her future by marrying a woman from a respected Toronto family. But when Darius meets Olivia, he's immediately drawn to her beauty and compassion.  

Can love prove stronger than prejudice and past mistakes? Or will Olivia's secrets destroy any chance at a future together?

 

Bethany House, October 2020

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:

Buy A Haven for Her Heart at Amazon

Buy A Haven for Her Heart at Christianbook.com

 

 

#GIVEAWAY and #INTERVIEW: SILENT SHADOWS by Natalie Walters, Reviewed by Paula and Kim

Author Natalie Walters

Autographed copy for giveaway!

Recently, Paula chatted with Author Natalie Walters about her new release!

Paula: Was it easier to write Silent Shadows than the first two books?

 

Natalie: In a way yes, because I had been thinking about these characters and their story line for a couple of years so I was really excited to get it written. However, because I had spent so much time dreaming about this story when it came to actually write it I was so overwhelmed with all of the details playing in my mind I worried I wasn't going to be able to get it on paper the way I wanted to. Thankfully, it all came together the right way...after lots of tears and prayers, lol.

Paula: The dishwasher scene was hilarious! Were you writing from experience?

Natalie: I was! My siblings and I had chores at a young age and we were probably in elementary school and had one of those portable dishwashers. We didn't know you couldn't use dish soap in it. The next thing you know, a growing blanket of white suds was covering everything in our kitchen and we freaked out. It was right out of the movies with us slipping all over the place to clean it up.

Paula: How much of you comes out in Pecca? When she speaks, I hear your voice!

Natalie: I think Pecca might be the closest to me, personality-wise but she also has a lot of my oldest daughter in her too. Some of Pecca's backstory was written from my own personal background but her cheerful, positive attitude, caring personality, is my daughter all the way. I might be the feisty in Pecca, though!
 
Paula: Do you pick a Bible verse or a theme before or after you start writing the book?

Natalie: Usually as I'm plotting a story or character, a theme will show up and as I write I watch for how to develop it. I want it to be natural and not forced so if I feel like I'm changing anything to fit the theme, I stop. Sometimes a Bible verse or theme won't show up until after I have written the first couple of drafts.
 
Paula: If you have had time to read, what is your favorite book so far this year!

Natalie: I always try to make time to read! So far my favorite books of this year are: Above the Fold by Rachel Scott McDaniel; The Kremlin Conspiracy by Joel C. Rosenberg; Take A Chance On Me by Becky Wade; and I'm cheating a little here with this next one because it hasn't released yet but I got to read an early copy and LOVED it, Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey by Abigail Wilson.

Paula: How has the virus outbreak impacted your family and travel plans? 

Natalie: Like everyone else I'm sure. The biggest impact we're currently on edge about is for my son who is a senior in high school this year and expected to have commencement at the end of May. My extended family made travel plans that are all on hold until we get word whether the ceremony will happen or if the travel restrictions will even be lifted for them to come visit. It's really hard to live in the uncertainty but I'm grateful we have all that we need and are safe, healthy, and can connect through technology with our loved ones. 

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR CHATTING WITH US, NATALIE!
now for our reviews...
PAULA'S REVIEW:
This book deserves more than 5 stars.

Wow! This book is the whole package. Great characters, a suspenseful plot, family dynamics and some humor to break the tension, not to mention the romance that heats up the pages— in a good way, after all this is a Christian Romantic Suspense novel. I couldn’t be more pleased with this third book of the Harbored Secrets series. Natalie Walters is a superb author. She ramps up the excitement in a totally believable story.

Pecca has a past that she is not proud of but is now a Christian. She tries hard to protect her son, Maceo, by moving away from trouble to a small town in Georgia. She takes a job as a nurse at Home for Heroes, working with wounded veterans. “My grandmother told me life is a series of choices. We should always strive to make the right ones, but sometimes we don’t. She said that when we face hardships, whether by our own making or through circumstances beyond our control, that’s when we have to turn everything over to God because only he has enough grace to turn our messes into blessings.”

The meeting with Colton Crawford is epic. She bowls him over. Colton has a disorder that I was not familiar with. Nurse Pecca helps with his rehab and finds a caring but hurting soul.

Familiar faces from books one and two and a few new ones round out the characters from Walton, Georgia. Maceo is one brave little boy, having a challenge of his own. There is wise counsel from Chaplain Kelly.

Ms. Walters doesn’t skimp on laughs in this suspenseful tale. The wisecracks of the elderly veterans are priceless. She must have been channeling her inner Lucy Ricardo for a scene with an overflowing dishwasher. Could she be speaking from experience?

Don’t miss this whole Harbored Secrets series.

I am looking forward to reading more from this talented author.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

KIM'S REVIEW:
I really loved everything about Silent Shadows. It is the perfect mix of romance and suspense with some really lovable main and secondary characters. The humor is spot on and the writing style makes you want to keep reading. I’m really sad that this series is over!

I really liked both main characters. I felt so bad for what Colton was going through physically, and how it made him question himself. I wanted to cry for him on more than one occasion. My favorite thing about him was his drive to help people, especially Maceo! And speaking of Maceo, one of my favorite things in this story is the relationship between him and Colton. I loved that kid. Pecca was perfect for Colton. Her sense of humor totally won me over. Finally, the suspense was so well done. It started out slowly and ramped up to a heart pounding climax at the end.

With each story, Natalie Walters just keeps getting better! I hated to see this series end. So looking forward to whatever Ms. Walters brings us next!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book.

Back Cover Blurb:
They're running from their pasts into an unknown future.
But first, they'll have to survive the present.

Nurse Pecca Gallegos moved to the tiny town of Walton, Georgia, to protect her son and escape the dangerous lifestyle that once defined her. When a series of strange circumstances evolves into threats, Pecca finds herself confiding in an unlikely ally--her stubborn patient.

Army veteran Colton Crawford is desperate to recover from the disorder that is ruining his life, and his instincts are on high alert when threats against his nurse and her son force him to take action. But Colton's involvement only ramps up the danger when he uncovers a family secret revealing that whoever is after Pecca is closer--and more deadly--than they realized.

Welcome back to Walton, Georgia, where everyone knows your name--but no one knows your secret.

Available in digital ebook, paperback, and hardcover:
Buy Silent Shadows at Amazon
Buy Silent Shadows at Christianbook.com

Now for that GIVEAWAY!
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#GIVEAWAY and REVIEW of THE RUNAWAY BRIDE by Jody Hedlund, Review by Nicole Cook

“Today she might meet the man she’d marry.” Jody Hedlund’s second installment in her new Bride Ships series, The Runaway Bride, explores the relatively unknown history of poor and middle-class British women willingly boarding bride ships to seek a better life and to find husbands in British Columbia in the 1860s. The treatment of the natives during the smallpox epidemic of 1862 in Victoria is a part of history that may also be unknown to many readers and is very interesting to learn about in this novel.    In an effort to escape the pain of her past, wealthy Arabella Lawrence heads to British Columbia aboard one of the bride ships where she meets two very different suitors, Navy Lieutenant Richard Drummond and Peter Kelly, the poor town baker with a heart of gold.     Jody Hedlund creates delightful characters and allows their personalities to shine, especially with Arabella and Peter.  Handsome baker Peter Kelly, with his charming personality and wonderful sense of humor, is a hero that readers will be rooting for.   Hedlund shares the powerful message of breaking free from society’s expectations and to discover God’s expectations and plans for us.  Mrs. Moresby continues to be a beloved secondary character in this series with her mentoring Arabella as she struggles with decisions that will affect her life and the lives of those most important to her. The Runaway Bride is highly recommended for readers of inspirational historical fiction.  *I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine. “Character is much more important than class.” Back Cover  Blurb: Wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship still wearing the scars of past mistakes. One of the few single women in the boomtown, she immediately has suitors, but she is determined not to find herself trapped again by a poor choice. Vying for her hand are two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond is a gentleman in the Navy and is held in high esteem. Peter Kelly is the town's baker and has worked hard to build a thriving business. He and Drummond not only compete for Arabella's affections, but clash over their views of how the natives should be treated in the midst of a smallpox outbreak. As Arabella begins to overcome her fears, she discovers someone in dire need—a starving girl abandoned by her tribe. Intent on helping the girl, Arabella leans on Peter's advice and guidance. Will she have the wisdom to make the right decision or will seeking what's right cost both her and Peter everything? Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook: March 3rd Release Buy The Runaway Bride at Amazon Buy The Runaway Bride at Christianbook.com Author Jody Hedlund Author bio: Winner of the 2016 Christian Book Award and finalist for the Christy Awards, best-selling author Jody Hedlund writes inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults. Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!). When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate. ENTER THE GIVEAWAY FOR A PAPERBACK of THE RUNAWAY BRIDE!

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MISTLETOE MENAGERIE by Janine Rosche #Interview and #Review by Nicole Cook

Nicole: The fabulous Janine Rosche is joining us today at Inkwell Inspirations to discuss her newly released Christmas novella, Mistletoe Menagerie, which is the prequel to her upcoming debut novel, This Wandering Heart.  Janine, thank you so much for joining us today!

Janine: It’s my honor, believe me!

Nicole:  Mistletoe Menagerie is the perfect novella for the holiday season.  This heartwarming Christmas novella of second chances and finding love again will have readers of contemporary romance eagerly anticipating the release of This Wandering Heart in May.  (PS Download it using the book funnel link below!)        

What message or inspiration do you hope that readers will take away from Mistletoe Menagerie?

Janine: This story, as well as the three full-length novels that follow it, all carry the same underlying theme. After loss, tragedy, or hardship, there is still reason to hope. In Mistletoe Menagerie, I tried to put flesh on Psalm 27:13- “I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” Sage and Luke have both lost someone dear to them. They are torn between honoring the person they loved and carrying on. No matter what my readers have experienced this past year, I hope they’ll see something of themselves in either Sage or Luke and welcome moments of grace and joy when they arrive.

Nicole:  After the brief introduction of Robbie in Mistletoe Menagerie, I can’t wait to read his story in This Wandering Heart. Could you share with us any information about your future releases and/or your current work in progress?

Janine: Oh, Robbie. I adore him. When I first started writing This Wandering Heart, I wasn’t sure a 350-page novel could contain his personality. He has a big, devoted heart and uses every bit of it to love his family and of course, Keira. And yet, he’s fun-loving as can be. But in his story, the same traits that make him a great hero stir up trouble and threaten the custody of his sweet, four-year-old daughter, Anabelle. Unfortunately, the best person to help him is the one he drove away once before. Keira knows the joy of loving Robbie Matthews, as well as the pain of losing him. And now there’s even more at risk: his daughter and her dream.

I hope readers will fall in love with Robbie, Keira, and Anabelle, then stick around to hear his sister Ryann’s story in Wildflower Road (October 2020) and his best friend Thomas’s story in Glory Falls (January 2021). And for those who have read Mistletoe Menagerie, this isn’t the last we’ll see of Pastor Shane.

Nicole: When chatting with Rachel Scott McDaniel recently, I shared with her that both of you are my favorite debut authors to follow on social media because of the fun ways that you interact with your followers and your eagerness to introduce readers to wonderful Christian fiction authors.  Through participation on some of the same authors’ launch teams as you and seeing your social media posts, I’ve noticed that we enjoy many of the same books.  Who are some of your favorite Christian fiction authors that you would love to recommend to our readers? 

Janine: My favorite topic! As I answer this, I’m staring at eight copies of Rachel’s book, Above the Fold. EIGHT! I’m giving them as gifts to my book club because I know they’ll love it. A clever plot, intriguing setting (1920s Pittsburgh), and a real swoony hero make it a fantastic read! I also just finished Denise Hunter’s latest, Lake Season, and must now spend hours contemplating if I loved it more than Dancing with Fireflies and Adam more than Riley (from Just a Kiss). Ugh. Another great recent release is Love You, Truly by Susan Tuttle. It’s a globetrotting whirlwind of a love story that made me a forever fan of hers!

Nicole:  It is always so fun to discuss swoony heroes with you!  You know that I’m a huge fan of Denise Hunter’s too.  Riley is one of my favorite heroes of Denise’s, but Wade from A Cowboy’s Touch will always have my heart!  Above the Fold was an amazing debut novel, and I can’t wait to read more of Rachel’s future books.  I have never read any books by Susan Tuttle, but after your recommendation, I definitely want to read Love You, Truly!

Nicole:  What books are on the top of your to-be-read pile during this holiday season?

Janine: First up is Pepper Basham’s A Match for Emma. Not a Christmas story, but it’s always a good time for a Basham book! On audio, I’m re-listening to Tinsel in a Tangle by Laurie Germaine. It’s the most adorable Christmas story about a seventeen-year-old elf who doesn’t fit in with the rest of the elves because of her human-height. She must learn to love her uniqueness while working with Niklas, the heir to the Santa Claus throne and her childhood friend-turned-foe to save Christmas. It’s a splendid ride and the sweetest romance!

Nicole:  What is one gift that you hope Santa leaves in your stocking on Christmas Eve?

Janine: Another labrador retriever puppy! Not really. Dog beds already cover most of the floor in my writing studio. So, I’d love a Jamie Fraser Funko pop. Robbie may or may not be modeled after him, so I’d like to have one to sit on my shelf!

Nicole:  Ha, ha! I have three labrador retrievers myself, and I always say I want another one too!  They are just so adorable!

Janine, thank you again for joining us today.  This has been a pleasure to chat with you!

Janine: Thanks, Nicole! Merry Christmas, everyone!

Author Bio:

Prone to wander, Janine Rosche finds as much comfort on the open road as she does at home. This longing to chase adventure, behold splendor, and experience redemption is woven into each of her rustic romance novels in the Madison River Romance series. When she isn't writing or traveling, she teaches family life education courses to college students, takes too many pictures of her sleeping dogs, and embarrasses her four children and husband with boy band serenades.

Back Cover Blurb:

Is one whimsical night enough to turn sorrow into a lifetime of hope?

On Christmas Eve, Sage Matthews races through the city zoo, desperate to honor the tradition she shared with her deceased mother. Yet a simple train ride beneath twinkling lights isn’t enough to quell the ache in her heart for the kind of Christmas she used to know. As she grieves, the last person she expects to see at the helm of the zoo festivities is her childhood crush.

Growing up, Luke Tennison never had any Christmas traditions, let alone a family to share them with. Now, as the assistant general director at the zoo and a widower, he counts down the days until the strings of lights dim and the tinsel disappears. When he approves a last-minute request for the zoo to host children from a foster home on Christmas morning, he asks Sage for help, in hopes it may bring a smile not only to the kids, but to the once-joyful girl he used to know.

Together Sage and Luke spend the midnight hours wandering through the sleeping zoo and preparing a magical and merry menagerie that the children will never forget. But with heavy snowfall threatening to close the roads, they’ll need a miracle, or all their efforts will be for naught.

Author links:

www.JanineRosche.com

www.facebook.com/janineroscheauthor

www.twitter.com/janinerosche

www.instagram.com/janinerosche

Link to novella: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/i3zhhk8rej

NICOLE'S REVIEW:
Fans of author Janine Rosche’s are in for a real treat with this enchanting Christmas novella filled with wonderful characters and beautiful Christmas traditions.

Mistletoe Menagerie, the prequel to Janine Rosche’s Madison River romance series, is the perfect novella for the holiday season. This heartwarming Christmas novella of second chances and finding love again will have readers of contemporary romance eagerly anticipating the release of This Wandering Heart, book one in the series, in May.

The zoo is especially magical this time of year for people of all ages. Holiday lights, train rides, and preparations for hosting a group of foster children at the zoo bring childhood friends Sage and Luke together for an incredible Christmas Eve that neither thought could ever be possible.

Mistletoe Menagerie is highly recommended for readers of contemporary romance, especially readers who enjoy books by Denise Hunter, Courtney Walsh, and Becky Wade.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was under no obligation to leave a review. All opinions expressed are mine.