Conspiracy of Silence by Ronie Kendig

I know when a book has the name of Ronie Kendig on the cover it will be a fast paced book with well developed characters and a lot of research put into it. Ms. Kendig's newest novel, Conspiracy of Silence is book one of her new series "The Tox Files" and as expected, it is fast paced and full of twists and turns as the reader is taken to different places on the globe.

Back Cover Blurb

This Is the Way the World Ends. 

Four years after a tragic mission decimated his team, Cole "Tox" Russell has been disavowed by the United States. And that's fine--he just wants to be left alone. But when a dormant, centuries-old disease is unleashed, Tox is lured back into action.
 
Tox and his former Special Forces team regroup to work with FBI deception expert, Kasey Cortes, and fiery archaeologist, Tzivia Khalon, to search the globe for answers--and a cure. As the mission leads from one continent to another, it becomes clear they're not just fighting a plague but battling an ancient secret society whose true goals remain hidden.
 
With time running out and the threat for a global pandemic rising, Tox and his team realize their sole chance might be to reach back through centuries of silence to find the only answer that can save them all.

My Thoughts

This novel is filled with lots of suspense centering around a military ops team that has been brought in to stop a terrorist from releasing a deadly toxin that originated during biblical times. The characters involved are well defined and pull the reader into their fast paced story.

While I enjoyed getting to know the characters I didn't love them a whole lot. I think the story was so fast paced that I sometimes got lost along the way. However, I did love the historical background within this book and found myself quite impressed by the obvious research the author put into this book.

I you like fast paced action novels, this book is definitely for you. There is also a little romance in it as well.

On a 5-Star scale - 4 Stars.

I would like to thank the publisher, Bethany House for my copy of Conspiracy of Silence. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

NKJV Know the Word Study Bible

Back of Book Jacket:

DON'T SETTLE FOR BEING A READER WHEN YOU AN BE A STUDENT OF GOD'S WORD.

Have you ever felt doverwhelmed by the thought of studying the Bible? The NKJV Know the Word Study Bible make it easy for you to understand God's Word. By breaking down key Bible topics and the books of the Bible into bite size portions, this Bible makes studying Scripture an approachable and rewarding experience. Readers can choose to study book by book, verse by verse, or topic by topic. Whether you choose one approach or all three, the NKJV Know the Word Study Bible gives you practical tools to develop a pattern of regular Bible study. Gain a deeper understanding of Scripture. Grow your relationship with God.

My Thoughts:

I loved this Bible. As mentioned above, you have three choices on how to study this Bible. If you choose book-by-book you'll find a series of notes that lead you through the main points of each book of the Bible. If you choose verse-by-verse you will find notes that will help you dig deeper into God's word. Your third choice, is to study topic-by-topic. Throughout this Bible you will find topic-by-topic studies that cover 21 theological topics that will guide you through a series of insightful notes and give you a thorough biblical understanding of each topic.

This Bible is a red-letter edition with a concordance in the back as well as colored maps. It is easy to maneuver through and I would highly suggest it to anyone who would like a good Study Bible.

I would like to thank BookLook Bloggers for my copy of NKJV Know the Word Study Bible. I received my copy for free in order to give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Pursuing Gold by Cynthia L. Simmons

I have always enjoyed reading books about the Civil War period, so I couldn't pass up the chance to read Pursuing Gold by Cynthia L. Simmons. In this novel, Ms. Simmons brings information to the reader regarding the banking industry during the Civil War.

Back of Book Blurb

With his father dead and his business partner incapacitated, Peter Chandler inherits the leadership of a bank in economic crisis. Peter, with only a newly-minted college degree and little experience, joins his partner's daughter, Mary Beth Roper, in a struggle to keep C&R Bank afloat while the Civil War rages around Chattanooga. Political pressure for unsecured loans of gold to the government stirs up trouble as tempers and prices rise. Their problems multiply when Mary Beth discovers counterfeit money with Peter's forged signature. Can they find the forger before the bank fails? The two friends must pursue gold on behalf of their business, as they learn to pursue their heavenly Father to find hope and peace.

My Thoughts:

The story started out a little slow for me as I waded through the dialogue that flooded the first few chapters. But as the plot began to develop I was engrossed in the twists and turns that kept me turning the pages.

Sadly, I was never drawn into the story like I wanted to be. I think this is partly due to quite a few grammatical errors within the book. Each time I encountered one I had to stop and re-read what I had just read in order to figure out what the author meant.

The characters never truly came alive for me, but I did care about them and I was rooting them on throughout the story.

If you like books written about the Civil War period you might like this book. Please keep in mind that it is more "behind the scenes" and not on the front lines of the battle.

On a 5-Star scale = 3 1/2 stars.

I would like to thank Litfuse Publicity for my copy of Pursuing Gold. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

High-Risk Reunion by Margaret Daley

I love reading books in the LoveInspired Suspense line of books and if it has Margaret Daley's name on the cover that is all the better. High-Risk Reunion is Ms. Daley's first book in her new "Lone Star Justice" series. 

Back Cover Blurb:

A PERILOUS SECOND CHANCE.

When district attorney Tory Carson returns home after a long day in court prosecuting a gang leader, she finds her home trashed. Concerned that the vandalism is connected the the trial, the local police chief calls the Texas Rangers...and her former love Cade Morgan responds.Tory's history with Cade--and the secret they share--makes her reluctant to let him back into her life. But Tory doesn't want to choose between bringing down a gang leader and protecting her teenage daughter. With the threat escalating the longer she tries the case, the safest place for Tory and her daughter is at Cade's ranch. But can Cade protect them long enough for Tory to bring the criminal to justice?

My Thoughts:

High-Risk Reunion is the first book in Margaret Daley's new series "Lone Star Justice" and I am sure, based on this book, that the entire series will be exciting, suspenseful and filled with believable characters.

Tory Carson and Cade Morgan share a secret but their first priority is Tory and her daughter's safety. The characters are all so well developed that I felt like I knew them and I was drawn into their drama rooting for them all the way. 

With twists and turns a plenty, Ms. Daley packs so much suspense into this novel that it keeps you on the edge of your seat. I guarantee you that this book will keep you engaged from the first page to the last.

I would highly recommend picking up a copy of High-Risk Reunion. You won't be disappointed.

On a 5-Star Scale = 5 Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank the author, Margaret Daley, for my copy of High-Risk Reunion. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Finding Riley by Dan Walsh

I just finished reading a wonderful novel by Dan Walsh set during Christmas. Finding Riley is the second book in his "Forever Home" series. The first book in the series is Rescuing Finley (read my review here) and was a pure joy to read. Both books can be read as stand-alone books but you will be blessed if you read both books.

About the book

An unexpected surprise brings the Mitchell family of Savannah a chance to experience the Christmas trip of their dreams. An unexpected disappointment threatens to turn it into the worst Christmas of their lives. 

John Finch and his friend Alfred live in the woods. Been doing if for decades. He likes wintering in Florida, but this year's been particularly harsh. Between the cold, freezing rain and terrifying lightning storms, John's starting to wonder how much more of this lifestyle he can take. A new friend enters the picture and changes everything. Kim Harper, the dog trainer introduced in Rescuing Finley, is contracted by a billionaire philanthropist seeking her help with a new dog training project that will help the homeless. Is he for real? And is her co-worker right? Does this rich, handsome man's interest in Kim go much deeper than her dog-training skills?

My Thoughts:

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters draw you in and invite you to become part of their story . But then I have found that to be true with all of Dan Walsh's books. 

While there were basically three story lines going on in Finding Riley, the Mitchell family's story, John Finch's story and Kim Harper's story, they were all drawn together largely due to a wonderful dog named Riley. 

This story stirred my emotions to tears and when that happens I know it is a book that I will keep and reread during the coming years. 

I would highly recommend Finding Riley to anyone who enjoys a good feel good story or stories set during Christmas. Oh, and there is a touch of Disney World in this story as well.

On a 5-Star Scale = 5 Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank the author, Dan Walsh, for my e-copy of Finding Riley. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Silent Night, Star-Lit Night by Ruth Logan Herne

I love Christmas stories, I love novellas, and I love any book with Ruth Logan Herne's name on it. Silent Night, Star-Lit Night, written by Ruth Logan Herne is one of three stories in the "Second Chance at Star Inn". The other stories are Room at the Inn for Christmas, by Mary Connealy and Do You Hear What I Hear by Margaret Brownley.

This story is a wonderful sweet Christmas story set in an old Bed and Breakfast during a nasty blizzard. Mia O'Loughlin is a widow and close to nine months pregnant when she is beckoned home to her ailing grandfather. Jeb Taylor, her childhood friend, is sent to the west coast to drive Mia home to Roslyn, Washington. Along the way, they encounter a nasty winter storm and when their car comes across a snow bank in the road they strike out walking, following a bright star. That star leads them to the Star Inn Bed and Breakfast where 'magic' happens.

While I absolutely loved this story, I wanted more. Why? Because I fell in love with Mia and Jeb and would love to delve further into their story. These two characters both are strong willed, full of hurts from the past but with God's love and a little Christmas magic they overcome their hurts.

I would highly recommend this wonderful Christmas story to everyone.

On a 5-Star Scale = 5 Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank the author, Ruth Logan Herne, for my e-copy of this wonderful novella. I received it for free in order to read and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren

Wild Montana Skies is the first book in Susan May Warren's new series "Montana Rescue". If this book is any indication the entire series will be a must read. 

Back Cover Blurb:

The last thing Search and Rescue helicopter pilot Kacey Fairing needs upon returning home to Mercy Fall, Montana, is to run into her mistakes. After a devastating crash during her recent military tour in Afghanistan, she is emotionally broken but ready to start putting her life back together. She just wants to reconnect with her teenage daughter and spend rthe summer working as the new lead piolt of PEAK Rescue in Glacier National Park.

But her mistakes aren't so easily forgotten. Because Ben King is also back in town.

Country music star Ben King abandoned his past when he moved to Nashville thirteen years ago to start his career. He hoped to heal his broken heart, caused by losing the woman he loved. But when his father is injured, Ben is called home to help manage PEAK Rescue during his recovery. He doesn't realize his father has ulterior motives until his old flame, Kacey, walks into his house and back into his heart.

Now, with Mercy Falls in a state of emergency due to flash floods, Kacey and Ben will have to work together to save lives. But when secrets are uncovered and old hurts rise to the surface, will they walk away again? Or can they find a different ending to their country love song?

My Thoughts

Set in the beautiful state of Montana, Susan May Warren's book, Wild Montana Skies, will capture the reader and take them on an adventurous wild ride into mountain terrain while riding along with the search and rescue team. This book will leave you breathless as you journey with the cast of characters.

Kacey and Ben were in love during their youth but due to unfortunate circumstances they both went their separate ways. Ben to Nashville to become a country music sensation and Kacey to serve in the military in Afghanistan. Both of these characters have strong wills and find it hard to forgive at first. Through misunderstandings on both sides, they have a lot of stuff to muddle through before they can find the truth and move on.

This story is filled with people who need to forgive and trust again. I enjoyed how the author let us see each character develop their forgiveness and trust through their faith in God.

If you love inspirational romantic suspense, I guarantee you will love Wild Montana Skies. 

On a 5-Star Scale - 5 Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank Revell for my copy of Wild Montana Skies. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

The Christmas Angel Project by Melody Carlson

Oh how I love stories set during Christmas! The first Christmas story I have read this year is Melody Carlson's The Christmas Angel Project. I must admit I shed some tears in this book but it was a wonderful read.

Back Cover Blurb:

THE ONLY SOUND IN THE ROOM was the rustling of tissue paper being peeled away, followed by some oohs and aahs.
     Belinda peered down at the delicate angel ornament in her hand. Made with satin and lace and glitter and ribbons, the small figure was lovely. But it was the hand-painted face on a large wooden bead that captivated Belinda. From the caramel-colored skin to the wavy dark hair and chocolate-brown eyes, this angel was clearly meant to resemble Belinda. She felt the familiar lump growing in her throat as she stared down at the dainty angel. Every detail was perfect.
     Belinda looked up to see the others holdig similar--yet different--angels. Each one resembled the woman holding it. Abby had obviously put a lot of time and thought into these gifts.
     "To write that letter--telling us thanks like that," Grace said with surprising intensity. "And to make these angels so that we'd remember her. And calling us her angels...doesn't it seem strangely coincidental? Like she had some kind of premonitions?"
     "It does to me," Louisa declared.

My Thoughts:

I loved this book. It was a story about close friendships and passing friendships. But in the end it was the story of one woman, Abby, who loved her friends so much that she could see into their frailties and through the simple act of giving them a handmade gift at Christmas the friendships she had with them reached out and touched each of the other three women.

Ms. Carlson created four very different characters in this book and yet if you were to put their lives under a microscope you would probably see some of the same issues and problems just depicted in a different way. I saw a lot of myself in some of her characters and this book, had a cathartic message that spoke to me through all these women's stories.

I would highly recommend picking up a copy of The Christmas Angel. But you might want a box of tissues close by for some of the more touching moments.

On a 5-Star Scale - 4 Stars!!!!

I would like to thank Revell for my copy of The Christmas Angel Project. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Tangled Webs by Irene Hannon

Irene Hannon has once again written a book that kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. Her newest book, Tangled Webs, is the third book in her "Men of Valor" series. The first book in the series was Buried Secrets (read my review here) and the second book in the series was Thin Ice (read my review here). While each book can be read as a stand-alone book, I would suggest reading all three in the series because they tell the stories of three brothers.

Back Cover Blurb:

FINN HAS PACKED AWAY HIS COMBAT INSTINCTS -- BUT HE MAY NEED THEM AGAIN WHEN DANGER BEGINS TO STALK HIS QUIET HIDEAWAY...

After a disastrous Middle East mission ends his six-year Army Ranger career, Finn McGregor needs some downtime. A peaceful month in the woods sounds like the perfect way to decompress. But peace isn't on the agenda once he crosses paths with publishing executive Dana Lewis, a neighbor who is nursing wounds of her own. Someone seems bent on disrupting her stay in the lakeside cabin she inherited from her grandfather. As Finn and Dana work together to discover who is behind the disquieting prands, the incidents begin to take on a menacing tone. And swhen it becomes apparent Dana's foe may have deadly ingtenet, Finn finds himself back in the thick of the action--ready of not.

My Thoughts:

I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters in this book. Having read the first two books, in which Finn McGregor appeared briefly, I was happy to finally find out the secrets he carried with him and see him finally get healing. As for Dana Lewis, she is a very strong character that was dealing with issues of her own. When you learn why she is living in the woods you can't help but feel for her.

Ms. Hannon is an expert at telling suspenseful tales that keep the reader engaged until the very end of the book. One thing I noticed in Tangled Webs is she let the reader in on what was going on right up front. We knew who the bad guys were. I thought at first it might ruin the story for me, but it didn't. Ms. Hannon is a master at creating twists and turns that keep the reader flipping pages long into the night.

I would highly recommend Tangled Webs to anyone who enjoys a good book filled with suspense and romance.

On a 5-Star Scale - 5 Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank Revell for my copy of Tangled Webs. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

The First Gift by Ruth Logan Herne

Oh. My. Stars! Ruth Logan Herne has written another book that captured me from the first page and held me until the last page. I shed quite a few tears along the way but it was an excellent read!

BLURB FROM BACK OF BOOK:

FIVE-YEAR-OLD CASSIE CARRUTHERS fends for herself while her father drinks himself into a stupor. But her isolation has not gone unnoticed as a northern Appalachian community works to rescue the neglected little girl. Kerry McHenry, the kindergarten teacher, sees her own tough upbringing in Cassie's dire situation. As she throws herself into helping Cassie become everything God wants her to be, she finds herself torn between a commitment-phobic doctor and a widowed deputy sheriff still angry with God. As the stakes grow ever higher and the characters' lives intersect in unexpected ways, each will face a true test of faith--and come face-to-face with indisputable evidence of God's love.

MY THOUGHTS:

The First Gift is a book that will settle in and stay awhile even after you turn that last page. In fact, the book has haunted my thoughts ever since I finished it and I mean that in the nicest of ways. Why? The subject matter makes me want to step in and help children like Kerry McHenry did in the life of little five-year-old Cassie. These two characters were so very real to me. I can imagine there are situations in the Appalachian community very much like the one in this wonderful book.

Kerry McHenry is a kindergarten teacher who takes her job seriously. When she meets Cassie Carruthers for the first time she is reminded of her own rough childhood and her heart breaks for this little girl. She wants to help Cassie in every way possible, however, there are laws that keep her from extracting the child from the run-down and dirty home she lives in with her drunken father. 

The two male characters in the book, Dr. Ryan O'Donnell and Deputy Jake Slattery were as different as night and day.  I disliked the doctor right away but then grew to like him a little as the story progressed. The deputy however had me at hello. His charm and wit won me over and I was rooting for him. Kerry had a difficult decision to make. The doctor or the deputy? I wish I could share her decision but that would spoil it for you. You'll just have to pick up a copy of The First Gift and find out if she chooses either one.

I truly appreciate that Ruth Logan Herne took on this subject matter and presented a story so well written that you almost feel like this is a true story. I guess it probably is as close to a true story as it can be. I would highly recommend this picking up a copy of this wonderful book.

On a 5-Star Scale - 5 HUGE Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank the author for my copy of The First Gift. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,

Twilight at Blueberry Barrens by Colleen Coble

I am a huge fan of Colleen Coble. Her newest book, Twilight at Blueberry Barrens is, in my opinion, her best book yet. It is the third book in her "Sunset Cove" series. The first book in the series is Inn at Ocean's Edge (read my review here) and the second book in the series is Mermaid Moon (read my review here). You really don't need to read either of these books before Twilight at Blueberry Barrens as they can all read as stand-alone books. However, I believe reading them all will make your reading more enjoyable.

The heroine of this book is Kate Mason who cares for her family's blueberry barrens. However, as the story begins, the fruit is not producing and she is forced to finding another way to make a living. She ends up renting out a cottage across from where she lives. Her new tenants are entrepreneur Drake Newham and his two orphaned nieces. 

Drake has came to town to learn more about his brother's and sister-in-law's deaths. He doesn't believe it was a murder suicide as law enforcement would have him believe. He has every intention to prove the police wrong, but will he succeed?

Kate learns her uncle, who was in prison for murder has escaped. So, when someone begins to stalk her she believes it is her uncle...but is it? Or is someone else scaring her with their threats?

Ms. Coble has created a very suspenseful story that has several twists and turns throughout. She holds the reader captive from the very first page and I can honestly say I was kept engaged until the very end trying to figure out who was responsible for all that was taking place. I love it when I can read a book and it engages my mind in trying to discover "who-dun-nit".

The story is set on the coast of Maine and it is quite obvious Ms. Coble does her research. Her words paint beautiful pictures of the settings and allows the reader to experience the setting through her words.

I would highly recommend picking up a copy of Twilight at Blueberry Barrens. The characters are believable and they are perfectly woven into the setting. There is also a very nice love story woven in the mix.

On a 5-Star Scale - 5 Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank Booklook Bloggers and Thomas Nelson for my copy of Twilight at Blueberry Barrens. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

to Rubyreba

the winner of Deadly Encounter by DiAnn Mills

I will be sending you an email so you can respond to me with the address I need to send your book to. This is an awesome book & I sure you will love it too!

Home on the Range by Ruth Logan Herne

When I pick up a novel to read, it is with the hope that I will be swept away by the characters and can become one with their world. It is rare to find an author who can do that, let alone, do it consistently. Ruth Logan Herne is one of those authors that can consistently create a world of characters that pull you in and let you become one with the story. Her newest book, Home on the Range is the second book in her "Double S Ranch" series and it pulled me in from the very first page. The first book in the series, Back in the Saddle (read my review here), was without a doubt the best contemporary novel I read last year and Home on the Range is the best contemporary novel I have read this year.

Back Cover Blurb

CAN THE BROTHER LEFT BEHIND and A WOMAN WITHOUT HOPE WORK TOGETHER for THE GOOD of TWO PRECIOUS CHILDREN?

Nick Stafford stayed in central Washington, working his family's large ranch after his brothers left to pursue other passions--but his toughest job is being a single dad. As a child he watched his father fail at marriage and parenting, so Nick was determined to show him up. He'd be a better husband, father, and ranch manager than Sam Stafford ever was. Despite that commitment, three years after Nick's wife left him, he has a daughter in trouble at school and both of his girls are facing issues that force him to rethink his stubborn plans.

For Dr. Elsa Andreas, life fell apart when tragedy caused her to abandon her family therapy practice and retreat to the backwoods of Gray's Glen. Her school principal sister believes Elsa can guide the Stafford girls and that working with kids will draw Elsa out of her protective bubble.

Summer on the Double S teems with life and adventure. Amid the bounty of God and land, will Nick and Elsa find the courage to build futures based on faith rather than fear?

My Thoughts

I loved this book. From start to finish the characters captivated me and pulled me into their story. Nick was a character I met in the first book of the series. I can honestly say I didn't get the warm fuzzier about him in the first book but as the author allowed him to reveal his issues and hurts in this book my heart melted and I grew to love him. Elsa, I liked right away, especially when she started working with the girls, Cheyenne and Dakota. She was sweet yet firm and allowed us to see deep into her hurts and issues as well. Now the girls were special. They had me wrapped around their little fingers right off and I didn't want to say goodbye to them.

Another thing I find rare in an author's work is when they can write in such a way that it engages all five senses in the reader. Ruth Logan Herne did just that in this book. There is a scene on pages 130 -133 that engaged all my senses. Elsa takes the girls into the forest to a small bog. On the way you will hear birds chirping and frogs croaking. You will smell the dampness and earthy smell of the forest. When we get to the bog, we will hear the sound of the Spring Peepers...tree frogs. The characters sit down and listen and it is amazing how I was so transported into this scene that I could feel, hear, see and smell everything that was occurring in that scene and I felt at peace, just as the characters did. This to me is a true gift of story telling and Ms. Logan Herne has truly been blessed with this gift.

I could go on and on about this wonderful book, but I don't believe in giving out spoilers. I will say that this book can be read as a stand-alone book but if you haven't read the first book in the series you might want to pick up a copy and read it first. I would highly recommend both books in this series. Home on the Range, releases on September 17, 2016.

I am looking forward to the third book in this series, Peace in the Valley, which is due to be out in March 2017. This will be Trey Stafford's story and I'm anxious to learn more about him.

On a 5-Star Scale = 5 HUGE Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank the author Ruth Logan Herne for my copy of Home on the Range. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

To Love a Stranger by Colleen Coble

I am an avid fan of Colleen Coble's work. When I was given the opportunity to read a book from her early works as an author I jumped at the chance. To Love a Stranger was previously published prior to me having ever read any of her work. I love it when publishers bring out books that are out of print, dust them off, and package them in pretty new covers.

Book Blurb from the Back

Traveling to a rugged country to meet her new husband for the first time, Bessie wonders, Can love truly conquer fear?

Bessie Randall is shocked to discover that, thanks to her sister's meddling, she is married by proxy to Jasper Mendenhall, a man she's never met. Believing she has no choice but to honor the marriage, Bessie travels from Boston to Jasper's military quarters in Fort Bridger, Utah Territory.

Jasper Mendenhall is equally shocked when he meets his wife at the stagecoach and realizes she is not the beauty from the picture he holds. But Jasper has orders to move to Arizona Territory, and he has no choice but to take Bessie with him.

Bessie and Jasper's mutual distrust is hard enough, but snakebites, Apache raids, and food shortages present even ore challenges as they head to the Southwest. A story of quiet commitment despite the odds, To Love a Stranger explores how love can grow in the most difficult land.

My Thoughts

I loved this book. It was simple yet it touched on so many feelings that it pulled me into the story and I felt like I was right there in Indian territory. I could smell the dust, hear the war cry of the Indians, feel the uncertainty Bessie and Jasper both felt of their situation. Ms. Coble has a true gift of creating characters that can draw the reader into their world and through that the reader is blessed.

I loved the spunk of Bessie and I cried when she cried about Ruthie (you'll have to read the book to find out who Ruthie is and what made Bessie cry). While most would think she was a frail young woman she proved that to be a false belief. She was strong when it counted. I loved her character.

As for Jasper, who doesn't love a man in uniform who chooses to do what is right even though his heart tells him otherwise. I truly loved his character as well. He has a sensitive side that is slowly revealed and I must say, there were times when I cried over him as well.

This is a wonderful book which let me see why I fell in love with Colleen Coble's writing. I would highly suggest this book to anyone wanting a good clean romance to read.

On a 5-Star scale = 4 1/2 Stars.

I would like to thank BookLook Bloggers and Thomas Nelson for my copy of To Love a Stranger. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.


Smiles & Blessings,

Winner of Ruth Logan Herne's book "Her Unexpected Family"

 The contest to win a copy of Ruth Logan Herne's book, Her Unexpected Family, is now over...

Cheryl Baranski

Congratulations Cheryl! I will be sending you an email so you can respond with the address I need to send your book to.

Smiles & Blessings,

Deadly Encounter by DiAnn Mills - with a Giveaway!

DiAnn Mills has done it again! Her newest novel, Deadly Encounter, is the first book in her new "FBI Task Force" series. I'm sure the next book, which releases in Spring of 2017 will be just as powerful as this one.

Blurb from the Back:

IS IT MERE COINCIDENCE, 
OR PART OF A CAREFULLY ORCHESTRATED PLAN?

Airport ranger volunteer Stacy Broussard expected a peaceful Saturday morning ride around the perimeter of Houston's airport. What she encounters instead is a brutal homicide and a baffling mystery. Next to the body is an injured dog, the dead man's motorcycle, and a drone armed with a laser capable of taking down a 747.
     
Though FBI Special Agent Alex LeBlanc sees a clear-cut case of terrorism, his past has taught him to be suspicious of everyone, even witnesses. Even bleeding-heart veterinarians like Stacy. But when her gruesome discovery is only the first in a string of incidents that throw her life into a tailspin, Alex begins to wonder if Stacy was targeted. As a health emergency endangers Sgtacy's community and the task force pulls in leads from all directions, Alex and Stacy must work together to prevent another deadly ecounter.

My Thoughts:

I absolutely loved this book. from the first couple of pages I knew I wasn't going to be able to put this book down until I had turned the last page. This novel is fast paced with a plot line that is intricately woven and keeps the reader guessing until the very end.

Stacy Broussard is a veterinarian who also volunteers as an airport ranger. Which means on Saturday mornings she saddles up a horse and rides the perimeter of the airport making sure all is well and no one is up to something they shouldn't be. As the book starts, she is heading to the stables to meet other volunteers to go for their ride. All volunteers must never ride alone. When Stacy arrives there is no one else there. She sends each one a text asking where they are and finds none of them are coming. So, even though it is against the rules, she heads out alone. That is when she comes upon a dean man, holding the leash of a dog, the man's motorcycle and an armed drone. Now the question is what does this all mean? I found myself trying to figure out what everything had to do with each other. It was like trying to figure out a puzzle. You'll be amazed at how the author weaves all these things together and delivers a wonderful believable story. 

I loved the characters in this book. Stacy Broussard, is a strong character with a passion for animals and one very intelligent young man by the name of Whitt. Alex LeBlanc is a Special Agent with the FBI, and he is definitely job oriented. I began to wonder if he would ever lighten up, but when he did, it was magic. Whitt is a twelve year old genius, who lives across the street from Stacy and helps her out in her Veterinary Clinic. I loved the way Ms. Mills wrote his character. She brought such life to him. You could hear his intelligence in his spoken words but you could see his youth in his actions. Wonderfully done Ms. Mills.

Ms. Mills has created a masterfully woven story of suspense, with romance sprinkled in. Her two main characters grew up in Cajun country and ever so often they speak some Cajun words that flavor the story all the more.

I would highly recommend Deadly Encounter to anyone who enjoys a good clean suspense filled novel. 

On a 5-Star Scale = 5 HUGE Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank the author and Tyndale House Publishers for my copies of Deadly Encounter. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review. I also received an extra copy that I am offering as a giveaway to one of my readers.

*********************  GIVEAWAY INFORMATION  *********************''

To be entered to win a copy of this book, you simply have to leave a comment telling me you would like to be entered to win. I would love it if you would follow me on Google Connect or by email but it is not a requirement. So please leave a message and good luck! Contest ends on 09/17/16.

Smiles & Blessings,

When Death Draws Near by Carrie Stuart Parks

I usually do not like reading books written in the first person, but after reading Carrie Stuart Parks first book in her "Gwen Marcey", The Bones Will Speak (read my review here), I had to read her newest book in the series,  When Death Draws Near. I can honestly say I really enjoyed her first person voice in writing her books.

Blurb from back of book:

GWEN MARCEY TAKES DEATH IN STRIDE UNTIL SHE'S FACED WITH HER OWN MORTALITY.

Forensic artist Gwen Marcey is between jobs when she accepts temporary work in Pikeville, Kentucky--a small town facing big-city crime. 

Gwen suspects a connection between the rapist and the "accidental" deaths that are happening around town, but the local sheriff has little interest in her theories. When her digitally-obsessed teenage daughter joins her. Gwen turns her attention to a second assignment: going undercover in a serpent-handling church. She could get a handsome reward for uncovering illegal activity--a reward she desperately needs, as it seems her breast cancer has returned. But snakes aren't the only ones ready to kill. Can Gwen uncover the truth--and convince anyone to believe her--before she becomes a victim herself?

In a thrilling race against time, When Death Draws Near plunges us into cold-case murders, shady politics and a den of venomous suspects.

My Thoughts:

As mentioned above I usually don't like books written in first person, but Carrie Stuart Parks is a gifted author who handles writing first person point of view very well. In fact, her words pull you into the main characters head and she allows the reader to become one with the heroine. 

When Death Draws Near is a story that has a serial rapist on the loose along with church members who have meetings where their congregants handle snakes. I must say the thought of handling snakes made my skin crawl, but the author handled (no pun intended) the topic well.

I met Gwen Marcey in the first book of the series and grew to enjoy her job as a forensic artist. It was quite intriguing to say the least. In this, the second book in the series, the author allows us to learn more about Gwen personally. She is fighting a lot of personal battles and hopefully by book three they will be tied up tighter than at the end of this book.

The hero doesn't have a large part in this book but I was happy to know that after being someone I didn't think I would like I grew to appreciate his character and look forward to where his and Gwen's relationship might go in the next book. You notice I didn't mention his name. That was intentional. You'll need to discover him all by yourself.

I would recommend this book to any adult who loves a good suspense novel. I don't believe it is a book for younger people because of the subject content.

On a 5-Star scale - 4 Stars!

I would like to thank LitFuse Publicity and Thomas Nelson for my copy of When Death Draws Near. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Without Warning by Lynette Eason

 Because I love Lynette Eason's books, I could hardly wait for the second in her "Elite Guardians" series to come out. I loved the first book in the series, Always Watching (read my review here) so I knew I would love the second in the series, Without Warning.

Blurb from the Back:

INTENSITY. SKILL. TENACITY.
THE BODYGUARDS OF ELITE GUARDIANS AGENCY HAVE IT ALL.

Katie Singleton, a partner with the Elite Guardians Protection Agency, stumbles upon her next assignment quite by accident. Spotting blue lights at a familiar restaurant, she stops to investigate, only to discover that owner Daniel Matthews has become the target of someone who will go to any lengths to put him out of business.

Daniel might be concerned, but he's not convinced that a bodyguard--and a female one at that--is necessary. A new attack and his niece's urgings are enough to make him reconsider. He and Katie must figure out who's behind the intimidation and threats--before a would-be killer strikes again.

My Thoughts:

This book left me breathless. With the non-stop twists and turns I was kept guessing until almost the very end. I love books like this that keep the reader engaged and don't give away the ending until it is time. Well done, Ms. Eason!

Katie Singleton, has a secret from her past that causes her to think twice before engaging in certain situations but in Without Warning she finds herself having to confront her past head on to save those she loves. Her character was extremely well-developed and realistic. I enjoyed her tenacity.

Daniel Matthews, found himself dropped into a situation that no one would choose to be placed in. Someone is attacking him and he doesn't like it, nor does he want a woman protecting him. But, his niece decides otherwise. I liked Daniel. He had a lot on his plate and the love he has for his niece was palpable. I loved his intensity.

I can guarantee if you enjoy a good suspense novel, Without Warning will be a good fit for you. You will find yourself not wanting to put the book down until you turn that very last page. I highly recommend it.

On a 5-Star Scale = 5 HUGE stars!!!!!

I would like to thank Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my copy of Without Warning. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,