Sara
A Secret to Die For is fast-paced, suspenseful and emotional. A psychologist, a detective with PTSD, a brilliant hacker and an off the grid father – those are the characters that compose this action packed conspiracy. Psychologist, Grace Callahan, discovers that a client has left her with something crucial, yet she doesn't know what it is or where it is or even why he left it for her. She has no choice but to begin digging for answers to those questions, as her life depends on it. Detective Nate Quinn is cleared for duty and he is faced with a new case where he is reunited with a college friend involved in a twisted case. As details begin to emerge so does the action, Grace is being hunted down with each new clue she unravels. Nate's PTSD is haunting him and holding him back from the emotions he is feeling toward Grace. Who can they trust? Are they following the right leads? Should Grace be involved at all? Are the feelings they have for each other driven by adrenaline or true affection? All of these questions beg to be answered as the story unfolds. There are plenty of twists and turns that make this a riveting romance and suspense novel. If you enjoy suspense and crime novels, but are looking for one that has a bit of heart then you have found your next book.
Mind Games was the first book by Nancy Mehl that I have read and it did not disappoint. With the setting being in St. Louis, which is my hometown, it made the story come to life even more. A few of the details were a bit predictable but for the most part I enjoyed the twists and turns. If you are like myself and enjoy psychology, Kaely (main female character) and her methods were very intriguing. I have a degree in psychology, so discovering Kaely's past and how it influenced her current life and occupation were fascinating. Hopefully the next book in the series will delve into Noah Hunter (male character) as his character felt distant and incomplete . Mind Games is a psychological suspense with an intelligent female character who has endured a terrible secret crime and uses it for good. Don't want to give away any spoilers! If you like non-gory, psychological crime shows or books, you will enjoy this read.
Suzanne Woods Fisher's writes Amish fiction which I have reviewed on my blog. I wasn't sure what to expect with On A Summer Tide which is contemporary. Fisher does an amazing job with contemporary fiction and I will definitely be waiting for the next book in this series. In fact, I would like to know if I can move to Three Sisters Island? The Maine scenery sounds amazing and peaceful.
I always enjoy when writers develop characters and families that are not perfect or cliche. The family dynamics revolving around a father and his three daughters are not perfect but full of drama. He was a career focused husband and now is a widow. He's trying to cope and build relationships with his daughters. Each daughter with her own unique personality and her view of the world, is against his plans for moving on. The story evolves and the supporting characters are not to be missed from Peg (owner of the Lunch Counter), Seth (school teacher) to Coon Cat and Lola (a falcon). In fact, I look forward to their stories developing in future books.
It is a very easy read, but the charming story will surprise you at times. It's a book you don't want to put down, but it's evenly paced and peaceful to read. If you are looking for an easy vacation or beach read, this will do it. I can't wait to see what is coming up next on Three Sisters Island!
The Anne Chapter books are a series and should be read in order for young children to follow the story. Of course if you already know the classic tale, then reading them as a stand alone is just fine. These chapter books are great adaption for younger readers to be introduced to Anne of Green Gables early on. The illustrations are detailed and help tell the story in picture. The story adaption keeps some of my favorite dialogue and Anne quotes. I'm so glad it wasn't changed for the younger age or current times. Young readers will enjoy becoming a part of Anne with an “e” story. It's a great introduction for children to begin their classic reading journey!
** I received a copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own and an honest review of the book.
After reading Wait for Me, I had to get the entire Montana Rescue series. I read Wait For Me first but realized that to truly appreciate the depth of the main characters relationship, I needed to go back and read them all. So, you could read this book as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading the series in order (from what I've been told from others who've read the entire series).
Pete is a member of PEAK rescue team and full of adventure, but you get to see a vulnerable side as well. Jess is caught between living a double life and pleasing people. I enjoyed each of the characters including the supporting characters. The plot is engaging and well developed. If you are looking for a suspenseful, adventurous, romance then this book checks all of the boxes.
When I read a book I am all in, I can hear, see and feel what the characters are going through. Towards the end of the book, as I read the words they took my breath away. I felt angry, sad but also understanding of the twists and turns. If you are one who doesn't like a predictable ending – this one is for you!
It is historical fiction with Christian themes throughout. I really like that the author doesn't hold back, as it is not a fluffy storyline. It is messy, descriptive and raw. It doesn't cross any lines, but also paints a realistic picture of the time period. Many strong female characters including the main character. Without giving any details or spoilers, my recommendation is to read this book if you like historical fiction about war and don't like fairytale endings.
Books about summer, settings that include a body of water , an author you know will not disappoint – all reasons that I chose to add this to my summer reading list. Not surprised at all that it checked off each box and earned it's spot. I enjoyed the storyline of the three sisters who all hold juicy secrets that come bubbling to the surface and discovering how they would resolve the issues at hand.
Summer by The Tides will tug at your heartstrings from the moment the three sisters arrive at their grandmother's Seahaven cottage to find her missing. Those dynamics continue until the end when generational family secrets are exposed. Each sister has her own problems hiding behind closed doors, but it doesn't take long for them to come barreling out. The angst between two of the sisters is one I have not yet read in a book, so it was interesting to see how the riff was tackled. “Drawing a line in the sand” brought about many meanings in different chapters. Coastal, boating and ocean themes were brilliantly sprinkled throughout. My coastal loving heart couldn't have been more smitten with every line I read with a metaphor in it.
And then there is Grams – oh Grams. She doesn't come on the scene until the last few chapters, but boy does she make a statement. She is in her eighties, spunky and says just what she is thinking. One of her lines is “But things aren't always as they seem.” and that one line sums up the book!
Love is too big a risk or is it? That is the question that is pondered throughout. Before I even opened the book to read it, I knew it would be a winner. Denise Hunter always has a way of pulling me into her stories. Summer by The Tides is no different.
Grab Summer By The Tides and toss it in your beach or pool bag. It has a great story and touches on family dynamics and everything that comes along with it. Enjoy this coastal read!
NOTE: I received an e-copy of this book for review via NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Number of Love is truly all about the numbers. This was the first book by Roseanna M. White that I have read and boy was it a good place to start. The first book in her series “The Codebreakers”. The author weaves historical information with the fictional characters and scenes beautifully. Margot, one of the main characters, is intelligent, independent and forward thinking. I enjoyed reading about a woman who is portrayed in this light, when this would have been against the cultural norm of the era. If you are a fan of numbers, you will be intrigued by the codes and numbers throughout that make up Margot's thoughts, job and world. Without giving any spoilers, Room 40 and cryptography are now on my list to research. This read was fascinating to say the least. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. If you are looking for a mystery that captivates not only your emotions but is thought provoking, The Number of Love will do the trick.
**I received a review copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and this is my honest review.
With a series title of Coastal Guardians and the book title of The Killing Tide, it was a for sure add to my reading list. Dani Pettrey is an author I have read time and time again. She does a superb job of writing suspenseful romance and creating series where you learn about all of the characters lives. But with that said, The Killing Tide didn't quite hit the same mark for me as some of her other series. The storyline follows Gabby (the main female character) as she goes back to her home town for safety after her life is threatened. Finn Walker, who works under her brother as a Coast Guard Investigator, is working on a horrible crime and the bodies keep piling up. Gabby and Finn have a rocky past, but he is in charge of keeping her safe. Meanwhile, she just can't stop her investigative instincts as a reporter. She is consistently putting herself and others in dangerous positions to get the story.
First, let me state that the author does an excellent job of capturing your attention with intensity and suspense from the first chapters. But along with that you are introduced to many characters and scenes that you are trying to keep straight and figure out. So, while I did like that it started off with a bang (literally), it was confusing at times. Once you get further into the chapters, the story is easier to follow and keeps you on edge. You will want to read to the end and won't be disappointed!
Most of the characters are easy to relate to and I do look forward to learning more about them in the next book. In this book, Gabby's character was one that I just did not like. But I don't think you should like every character in a book, even if they are the main character. It just makes you engage with the character in a different way. Her constant disregard for people and their safety was unnerving. She truly only cared about getting the story, no matter the cost. And her idea of being a friend was not my definition of friend. Her behavior goes against my grain, and although I didn't like that in her character it was also a way to see things from a different perspective.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and the suspense. It may not be my favorite book by this author, but it's worth a read.
*I received an ebook review copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
In Too Deep takes you on a dive into an under water investigation with a tie to human trafficking. The author brings a storyline that is fast paced and keeps you wanting more. The characters were well developed and had interesting backgrounds. Adam is the dive investigator called to the scene of a crime involving a submerged car and laptop. Dr. Sabrina Fleming is a professor who is very intelligent but lacks social skills. The two will work together to unravel the mystery. The plot was suspenseful and full of drama from beginning to end. It had me on the edge of my seat. If you enjoy suspense with a bit of romance and scuba diving, you won't want to miss this read!
Denise Hunter is at the top of my author list and On Magnolia Lane is right on par. She has managed to captivate me with another romance. This time it is between a pastor and the town florist. Jack's friends convince him to chat with Daisy through a dating app, but she doesn't know that TJ and Jack are one and the same. It brings to light the fact that pastor's are human and have real life struggles. Both Jack and Daisy have to resolve issues of trust, honesty and love. It's a sweet romance with faith intertwined. Great characters, plot and setting!
Jaime Jo Wright has a way of writing stories with mysterious settings that are oh so creepy. She has also mastered writing plots that weave two different time periods together. I was drawn in right from the start and couldn't read fast enough. The pages come to life with vivid detail and the characters are well thought out. A spiritual thread is woven throughout the pages and provide layers of emotions. I am not a fan of spooky, ghost or creepy books, so I was hesitant to read her first book. Much to my surprise Jaime Jo Wright has penned the words in a way that I can read and be intrigued enough to keep going. I think it is due to the way she goes between time periods and every dark emotion or scene has a reason behind it - never just tossed in for the scare factor.
If you are looking for a unique spooky mystery that is in the genre Christian fiction, you absolutely do not want to miss this book. I highly recommend this book and her other books, as she hits it out of the park!
Everyone knows the saying “ Don't judge a book by its cover” but the truth is that some books are just as amazing as their cover - others not so much! Until the Mountains Fall is one of those books that has a cover that is breathtaking and draws you in immediately. Once you open the pages and begin to read, you quickly realize that it's not just the cover that is breathtaking. The story is as just as beautiful and captivating.
The Cities of Refuge series is at the very top of my favorites list. Every book is just as good as the one before it. Until The Mountains Fall is a heart stopping read that takes place in the city of Kedesh. Rivkah and Malakhi are the main characters who are betrothed by an arranged marriage. Not only are there family heritages deep but their spiritual lineages are rooted deeply as well. Rivkah is against the arrangement of her marriage to Malakhi for many reasons. And Malakhi is aware of her feelings and is trying to put his best foot forward. Despite his efforts, Rivkah takes drastic measures that have drastic consequences. Through many twists and turns the characters begin to discover many truths and lies. As you flip the pages you are hit with betrayal, judgement, death but also joy, love and bonds that cannot be broken.
Once you start reading you simply cannot stop! Truly the words on the page are so engaging and tug at your heart with every page you turn. It feels as though you are in the middle of the story and every scene is being played out with vivid color and movement. If you enjoy Francine Rivers Redeeming Love, you must get this series! And that is a very high praise considering, Redeeming Love is number one on my favorite books I've ever read.
In her first novel, Tari Faris has created characters that are believable, a plot that is engaging and a romance that is worth the read. One of my favorite things about it is the setting of Heritage with it's small town vibe and location by the water. There are many historic homes and Hannah is trying to save them while most are willing to watch them be torn down. It was fascinating how the author wove the theme of letting go of the old to make way for the new both emotionally and physically. It is a romance, but it also deals with belonging, finding your own path and not being held back by your past or your heritage. Not only are the main characters developing but there were quite a few secondary characters intertwined in the story. With that being said, I am interested in who the next book's story will follow.
Those who like to read Becky Wade, Denise Hunter and Melissa Tagg, will find this book to be a great choice. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book in the series.
*I received a copy of this book for review via Revell. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
What begins as a high school friendship involving a quarterback and a bookworm, soon becomes so much more. I adored this story and all of its mentions of classic works. It's a slow burn that really makes you dig deep. With emotional scenes and troubled characters, it weaves a beautiful story of friendship, love, forgiveness and family. The split timeline going back and forth between “then” and “now” was easy to follow and really played into the depth of the plot. I simply had to keep reading and couldn't put it down. The Professor, the main characters inherited parrot, was the perfect addition for a bit of humor all the while keeping it realistic.
While the book is labeled as Christian fiction and faith is mentioned, it is only sprinkled in. It leaves you thinking more than anything. The author touches on some very tough situations and I think her approach to faith is very realistic rather than fairytale. I appreciated that in this specific story, as it made it more believable as to how a young girl being alone would find her way.
All in all, The Words Between Us, is a new favorite. I look forward to more works from Erin Bartels.
DISCLOSURE:
I received a copy of this book for review via Revell Company. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
One Final Breath is the perfect finish for the Dive Team Investigations series! Once you start reading, you will stay up past your bedtime. Lynn Blackburn hits every button perfectly, from the diving to the suspense to the romance and friendship. I want to join the team and be a part of their circle of friends! Characters are revisited from the series, but reading the previous books isn't necessary to enjoy this one. I truly appreciate when an author includes the previous characters. When you can see the development of characters and relationships all the way until the final chapter of the last book, it gives you the entire picture and a satisfying conclusion.
Gabe and Anissa's story is not just a development between the two of them but also an awakening within themselves. They have a “professional” history with an intriguing twist and they both view it from a different perspective. This is a truly a fantastic read and I highly recommend this book and the others in the series. If you are a fan of Lynnette Eason, Colleen Coble or Cara Putman, then you have found your next read.
Although I read this series on my kindle, I have all of the books in my personal library. The covers are stunning!
Irene Hannon has done it again with this next book in the Code of Honor series. From the very first line until the ending page, she has your attention. The characters are very well written, storyline is developed and the setting is well researched. Every box is checked in my opinion regarding Dark Ambitions. If you are looking for a suspense that you don't figure out the suspect and the story keeps you engaged, you have found the right book.
Over the Line brings to light mainstream topics and real life struggles. It includes gun smuggling, murder, immigration, border control and more. I appreciated the variety of people as well, from Natalie (the main character's sister) being in a wheelchair to Eli (the main male character) who is trying to stay clear of old habits. The author weaves these topics into the storyline well and develops the backstory throughout. There are two romances that are developing, which is a good contrast and keeps you coming back.
Overall it did move a bit slow for me and took a bit to get into. The relationship between the main characters was a bit frustrating at times. If you are looking for a suspenseful romance with mainstream headlines, you will enjoy Over the Line.
Lavender fields, tea rooms and a path to the beach set the scene for an emotional, charming and beautiful storyline. Jeanette hopes for a fresh start when setting up her lavender farm and tea room in the seaside town of Hope Harbor. Her neighbor, Dr. Logan West's life has taken a turn with the loss of close family and he is struggling to keep up with his new role that he inherited. The main characters are wonderful and the supporting characters are also very captivating. The storyline is full of loss and the pain of losing someone you love. It intertwines three situations of loss and hope in the process of trying to pick up the pieces. Most intriguing is the relationship that develops between two children who cannot speak the same language but develop a bond over the loss of loved ones. They don't need to speak to each other in order to give comfort and hope to one another. It's a beautiful side story within the main storyline, one that I won't soon forget.
While it is filled with painful emotional scenes that pull at your heart strings, it also has sprinkled in laughable scenes and of course love in all capacities. You will feel a full range of emotions while reading this lovely book. This Hope Harbor novel was one that I couldn't put down and read straight through on a sleepless night.
Couldn't put this one down! Deadly Intentions is full of suspense, twists, and secrets. It does have a hint of romance, but it is heavier on the suspense and crime plot. I truly enjoyed this read! Caitlyn is a scientist and when another co-worker ends up dead with an unlikely reason, she begins to have questions. Those questions are what put her own life in danger. She has one person she can turn to for help, a deceased co-worker's husband, Detective Josh Solomon. Although he is hesitant to believe her theories, he quickly realizes that she is on to something. Together they work to find out who is killing her co-workers and why they want them dead. If you like crime tv shows, you will enjoy this fast paced book!
As with the entire Blue Justice series, Vow of Justice, brings the action, drama and romance. The St. John family is one of my favorite aspects of the series. It brings about the devotion of family and importance of family ties. In this book, Lincoln is an FBI Special Agent who is left without a partner after an explosion occurs on a houseboat. Allison, his partner, supposedly dies in the explosion. Lincoln sets out to find her killer. Meanwhile, Alli puts her trust in those around her and realizes that this may be a mistake. The storyline is fast paced and intriguing, but the villain is easy to figure out. Even with that being said, I would recommend this suspenseful read!
Do you ever feel like you are on the battlefield and it's not going the way you hoped? I know I have! When you need words of encouragement, strength and hope, open the pages of Strong Brave Loved. You will find 60 devotionals that will empower you to keep going, fight hard and be courageous. Each devotional has scripture behind it and ends with a prayer and thought provoking question. It's a book that reveals your scars, acknowledges your wounds and gives you the battle cry to fight back and keep going.
Holley reveals the “behind the scenes” of real life which we often try to mask. Instead of cover it up, she gives us scripture to get back up and fight for who God says we are! Reading this in the morning to start my day has given me the tools to take on whatever the day brings at me. As I'm reading I think “how did she know what was going through my head” or “there are others who feel the same as I do”. I strongly encourage you to join me in reading this daily devotional and together we can stand Strong, be Brave and feel Loved.
Get ready to be the Strong Brave Loved woman that God created you to be!
When not one but three of your favorite authors come together for a suspense novella, it's a must read! I have yet to read a book that I didn't love by these three authors of romantic suspense. The three novellas do not intertwine, so each is a unique story. You may however recognize characters involved from previous books. On one hand it connects readers who've read their other novels, but then if you have not, you may feel a little behind on character development. Either way, they are still enjoyable and easy reads.
Out of the three, Lynette Eason's is my favorite. Betrayal is a definite thread through each story but the suspense is excellent with just a touch of romance. I would recommend this read for anyone who enjoys these Christian Fiction authors. And if you have not read a book by these three, you should! I highly recommend all three authors and I read every book they have published!
Colleen Coble does it again! This book is set in Dunedin, Florida which is not far from where I live. She did a wonderful job of capturing the essence of the area, history and overall vibe of Florida. The story is one of mysterious crime and suspense but it feels a bit whimsical as well. Most likely due to the inclusion of the Weeki Wachi mermaids, sea silk and seashells.
The suspense keeps you on the edge until the end. I found the family dynamics as well as the way in which the main character becomes pregnant interesting and unique. The book combines mystery, family dynamics, tragedy and romance. It's a read that keeps you interested from the beginning to the end. Colleen Coble is an author I highly recommend. Strand of Truth is another great book in the long of her books that you should read.
Somehow Jen Turano weaves humor into her books with such finesse. You simply cannot read without laughing out loud at some point. Truly it is a joy to read her stories! What I also appreciate is that the female characters are not laughable, but rather strong, charismatic, hard working individuals. The characters are well developed and not lacking in any way. It's not just the hero and heroine that will capture your attention but the supporting characters as well (some of which are not human). While most are likable, watch out for the villain who holds a title - the Duke.
There are plenty of laughable moments, but the story is also faith filled and has a hint of mystery. It's a story that will capture your heart and your attention. If you are looking for a book that is a bit light hearted and will give you a laugh, pick up Flights of Fancy. It's a gem!