Double Take by Lynette Eason

Lynette Eason's newest book, Double Take is a page-turner, to say the least. It is the first book in her new series "Lake City Heroes" and let me tell you, if the books to follow are as good as this one (which there is no doubt in my mind that they will be) she will have another excellent series.

The story is about Physician Assistant Lainie Jackson and Detective James Cross. These two are brought together when someone makes an attempt on Lainie's life. That's when the roller coaster ride began...up and down and back again, this story took me on a wild journey of nail-biting suspense that had me guessing right up until the very end. 

I absolutely loved the characters in this story. They both have flaws that make them more believable. I loved all the banter between Lainie & James, but I also loved the banter between James and his partner Cole Garrison. Ms. Eason has a talent for creating extremely believable characters that charm the readers. 

This is an awesome romantic suspense with a beautiful faith message threaded through the story. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good romantic suspense.

On a 5-Star scale - 5 Stars!

I would like to thank Revell Books, for my copy of Double Take. I received my copy for free with no expectation of a positive or negative review.  The opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR. Part 255.

Smiles & Blessings,

Elysium Tide by James R. Hannibal

I ventured into reading a book by an author I have never read before and was quite happy that I chose to read Elysium Tide by James R. Hannibal.

This story will take you from London, England to the shores of Maui, Hawaii within two chapters.

The story begins in an operating room where the reader first encounters Dr. Peter Chesterfield, a top neurosurgeon at the Royal London Hospital. Unfortunately, as good as he is a neurosurgeon he is also quite good at being an egotistical jerk. Since the hospital is a teaching hospital there is an arena where students can observe the operation. In this case, the operation was on a young boy to remove a tumor and when a second-year neurosurgery fellow makes an error that could cost the boy his life, Dr. Chesterfield lets her have it verbally. Sad to say, the parents of the boy were allowed into the arena to observe so they witnessed the error and the outburst. It caused quite a disturbance within the hospital so the good doctor is soon ordered to go on leave to Maui to attend some medical conferences and hopefully come back with a better disposition. No sooner does he get to Maui, he finds the body of a dead woman on the beach.

Detective Lisa Kealona worked for the Los Angeles Police Department when she was invited to join the Maui Investigative Services Bureau to head up their Criminal Investigative Division's Gang Task Force. This makes waves with another female detective who felt the job should have been given to her. When Lisa enters into the story she is investigating some car thefts on the island, however, she soon finds something a little more nefarious going on. 

Peter can't seem to not get involved in being an amateur sleuth to try and find out who murdered the dead girl he found on the beach. Lisa decides to use him to consult with as Peter looks at things differently and maybe he can help her solve the crime. 

Elysium Tide is packed full of fast-paced twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages long into the night. That, along with the Maui island paradise, the reader is in for a real treat.

If you love fast-paced crime novels with good detective work you will love this book. There was great mystery and the characters drove the story.

On a 5-Star Scale - 4 Stars.

I would like to thank Revell Books, for my copy of Elysium Tide. I received my copy for free with no expectation of a positive or negative review.  The opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR. Part 255.

Smiles & Blessings,

The Chase by Lisa Harris

I have read a lot of novels by Lisa Harris, but The Chase, in my opinion, is probably her best so far. Now this is the second book in her "U.S. Marshals" series, the first book being The Escape (unfortunately I haven't had a chance to pick up a copy yet). While they can be read as standalones I believe it would be best to read them in order as this is a series that contains a continuation thread.

I love great characters and Ms. Harris did not disappoint me with her two lead characters, U.S. Marshal Madison James and U.S. Marshal Jonas Quinn. Both characters bring the pages of this book to life and pull the reader into their world. 

The plot to me was fast paced and kept me guessing and pulling for the success of the characters. The main story concerned a series of bank robberies and Madison and Jonas were given the identity of someone that could have been involved. This took them on a chase from Seattle to the San Juan Islands keeping the reader sitting on the edge of the seat waiting for the climax to the hunt. 

The second storyline involves the death of Madison's husband (which occurred in the first book). In this book, it is revealed that Madison has a mental block on who actually killed her husband. There are some hints at the end of this book but unfortunately the reader will not learn the resolve until book three, The Catch. I can hardly wait for this third installment to be released.

If you are a fan of Lisa Harris and like fast paced action suspense novels that are clean and have a faith thread you must pick up a copy of The Chase. I promise you will not be disappointed.

On a 5-star scale = 5 HUGE Stars! I loved this book!

I would like to thank the author and Net Galley for my copy of The Chase. I received my copy for free with no expectation of a positive or negative review.  The opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR. Part 255.

Smiles & Blessings,

Cindy

 

The Traitor's Pawn by Lisa Harris

I am such a big fan of books with the name Lisa Harris on the front. Her newest book The Traitor's Pawn grabbed me from the very first line which read, "WATCH YOUR BACK...this isn't over". Ms. Harris has a way of drawing her readers into the story quickly and holds them there until the very last sentence.

The Traitor's Pawn is not just another FBI suspense novel. It's a book that measures the strengths of both main characters. FBI agent Jack Shannon and Detective Aubrey Grayson had been best friends during their youth but they haven't seen each other in years. They are brought back together when a Senator is shot and Aubrey is kidnapped...all within the first chapter. Talk about fast-paced. This book will pull you in, set your heart to pounding and will deliver you to a satisfying conclusion.

Ms. Harris is very good at creating believable characters and you will either love them or hate them. As they pull you into their story, you will fill like you are right there with them on their journey to win against the bad guys.

If you love suspense novels you will love this one. It is packed with twists and turns and you won't want to put it down. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves fast-paced suspense with a little romance thrown it.

On a 5-star scale - 5 Stars!!!!!

I would like to thank Revell Books for my copy of The Traitor's Pawn. I received my copy for free with no expectation for a positive or negative review. The opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR. Part 255.

Smiles & Blessings,

Fatal Strike by DiAnn Mills

My Thoughts:

I absolutely loved DiAnn Mills newest book, Fatal Strike. This is a book in which both the heroine and hero have fears that they need to overcome or their fears will definitely do them in. 

The story is about two snipers, FBI Agents Leah Riesel and Jon Colbert. They are brought together in a situation that needed a sniper's intervention. As soon as they are done on this job they are given another job to do together and all I can say is once you open up the pages of this book, you will be swept away on a journey that will leave you breathless. I can usually figure who did what but in this book I was shocked when all was revealed at the end. 

Ms. Mills has a masterful talent of creating extremely believable characters that are perfectly flawed but by the end of the book, they learn to deal with their issues and can start moving forward. It was no different in Fatal Strike. Leah has a fear that she literally finds herself coming face to face with and Jon experiences a situation that he will also have to make a decision that will help him combat his fear. I found myself thinking about one of my fears and how I might be able to overcome it. 

I can honestly say this is one of Ms. Mills best books yet. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good clean suspense novel. You won't be disappointed. 

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

I would like to thank the author, DiAnn Mills, for my copy of Fatal Strike. I received my copy for free with no expectation for a positive or negative review. The opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR. Part 255.

Smiles & Blessings,

Back Cover:

THERE'S A KILLER ON THE LOOSE IN GALVESTON, targeting law enforcement officials and using a fatal injection of snake venom to take them down. Authorities have reasons to believe the Veneno gang is behind the hits, and FBI Agents Leah Riesel and Jon Colbert team up to track down those responsible. Their best lead is an eyewitness who identifies a young man dumping the third body on a church doorstep. But their suspect has gone into hiding, and those closest to him are reluctant to reveal anything that might help investigators find him.

As Leah and Jon check connections among the victims and dig deeper into motives, they discover appearances may be deceiving. Someone is desperate to keep their secrets hidden, and Leah and Jon must face their greatest fears in order to stop the next fatal strike.

Dark Deception by Nancy Mehl

I am quickly becoming a big fan of author Nancy Mehl who writes wonderful Christian suspense novels. Her latest novel, Dark Deception, is the second novel in her Defenders of Justice series. The first in the series was Fatal Frost.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Kate O'Brien's quiet life in small-town Shelter Cove, Arkansas, is shaken when her past suddenly comes roaring back to life. Four years ago, she and her twin sister were attacked by an elusive serial killer. Only Kate survived, and she's been in witness protection ever since.

When new evidence arises to suggest the convicted man wasn't the murderer, she's subpoenaed to testify in the new trial. Afraid to go back into that world, Kate only agrees if Tony DeLuca, the deputy Marshal who protected her during the original trial, escorts her to St. Louis.

Tony readily takes on the assignment; Kate's beauty and inner strength made more of an impression on him than he expected. But when Kate's safety is threatened, Tony must race against the clock to keep her alive and put this ugly case to rest before anyone else gets killed.

MY REVIEW

While this book can be read as a stand alone book, I wish I had read Fatal Frost first because many of the characters that are in Dark Deception were first introduced in Fatal Frost.

In Dark Deception, the author takes the reader into the world of serial killers and the witness protection program leaving them breathless by the time the last page is turned. Her lead characters, Kate O'Brien and Detective Tony DeLuca, are well developed and complex. I cared deeply for both of these characters and rooted for them throughout their story.

Ms. Mehl truly takes the reader on a roller coaster ride with twists and turns and keeps the reader guessing as to who the real B.E.K. (Blue Eyed Killer) is. Just when I thought I had things figured out, there was another turn of events that took me in a different direction. I loved it because it really made me engage my mind to try to figure things out. 

I would highly suggest this book to anyone who enjoys a good suspense novel that will engage you in the chase for the killer. 

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

I would like to thank Bethany House for my copy of Dark Deception. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Deep Extraction by DiAnn Mills

I become more and more of a fan of DiAnn Mills with each new book that I read of hers. Her newest release, Deep Extraction, is book two of her "FBI Task Force" series. The first book in the series, Deadly Encounter (read my review here.), was a sure winner and I could hardly wait to read her second installment. While the books are part of a series, they can be read as stand alone novels, but I assure you, once you read one you will surely want to read the other.

Back Cover Blurb:

A PACEMAKER should have saved oil and gas magnate Nathan Moore's life. Instead, it provided his killer with a seemingly perfect means of execution.
     A bombing at one of Nathan's oil rigs days earlier indicates his death could be part of a bigger conspiracy, a web Special Agent Tori Templeton must untangle. But her first order of business is separating the personal from the professional--the victim's wife, her best friend, is one of the FBI's prime suspects.
     Clearing Sally's name may be the biggest challenge of her career, but Tori finds an unexpected ally in the newest member of the task force, recently reinstated Deputy US Marshal Cole Jeffers. As Tori and Cole dig deeper into Nathan's personal and business affairs, they uncover more than they bargained for. And the closer they get to finding the real killer--and to each other--the more intent someone is on silencing them for good.

My Thoughts:

I loved this book. With characters that are extremely well developed, crisp dialogue that pulls you in and the suspenseful twists and turns of the plot you are guaranteed a breathtaking, edge-of-your-seat, suspenseful read that will leave you wanting more. I for one, cannot wait until book three is released.

DiAnn Mills has a talent of creating well developed characters that make you want to meet them in person. Of course, we know that they are fictional but they are developed so well you almost feel like you are reading a story right out of current day news.

I really enjoyed Tori Templeton's character and how her relationship with Cole Jeffers developed. I was worried for awhile that Tori would give up on Cole but in the end I was happy the way things turned out. 

If you love a good suspense novel, then Deep Extraction is a must read that I highly recommend!

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

I would like to thank the author, DiAnn Mills, for my copy of Deep Extraction. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

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,

Silence in the Dark by Patricia Bradley

I am a huge fan of Patricia Bradley's work and I have read all of her books. Her newest novel in her "Logan Point" series, Silence in the Dark, is the fourth book in the series and my guess is it will probably be the last in the series.

Blurb for the Back Cover:

BAILEY ADAMS IS RUNNING FOR HER LIFE... AGAIN.

When Bailey Adams left Logan Point two years ago for Mexico, she thought she was getting away from her problems. Running into her ex-fiance Danny Maxwell was not part of the plan - neither was being chased through the city by the local drug cartel, the Calatrava. Now despite her best efforts, Danny is her only chance of escaping the people chasing her and getting back to Logan Point safely. Can Bailey find the strength to face what's coming? And in the midst of the chaos, can she e=keep herself from falling in love with her rescuer all over again?

One thing I truly love when reading any books, is good, believable characterization. I learned from her first book that Ms. Bradley has a true gift in creating characters that are not only well developed but they pull the reader into their world and make the reader believe in them.

While this book reads well as a 'stand-alone' book, I would highly recommend reading the first three books in the series, Gone Without a Trace, A Promise to Protect and Shadows of the Past. I guarantee you will fall in love with this series and Ms. Bradley's writing.

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

I would like to thank Revell Books for my copy of Silence in the Dark. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

If I Run by Terri Blackstock

Oh. My. Gosh. If you had told me I would pick up a full length novel and read it in one sitting I would have laughed. But, yesterday morning I decided to select a new book to read on my Kindle. I chose If I Run by Terri Blackstock. Let me tell you. That book grabbed me from the first line and by late afternoon I had finished this wonderful book.

If I Run is the first book in Terri Blackstock's new series and is due to release on February 16, 2016. I can honestly say that this is a powerful suspense novel that will grab you from the first sentence, "There's blood on the bottom of my shoes." and leave you wanting more by the time you turn the last page. 

The blurb on the back starts out, "Casey knows the truth. But it won't set her free." This is a story about Casey Cox, a young woman who at the tender age of twelve discovered her father's dead body. It was stated that her father committed suicide by hanging but she still doesn't believe it. She knows in her heart that he was murdered. Now she finds her best friend murdered and she decides to flee until she can uncover the truth. She can't trust the police so who can she trust.

Ms. Blackstock has written a fast paced, nail-biting suspense novel that takes the reader on an edge-of-your-seat ride until the very end. I have to say that I was so hooked at wanting to know what was going to happen next that before I knew it I had finished the entire book and now I will have to wait patiently for the second book in the series.

I highly recommend this book for adults who enjoy reading fast paced suspense novels with a Christian thread. Because of the subject content, it might not be suited for young readers.

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

I would like to thank BookLook Bloggers for my e-copy of If I Run. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give an honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

CFBA - Deadlock by DiAnn Mills

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Deadlock

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (October 1, 2015)

by

Diann Mills

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling
author who believes her readers
should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with
unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels.
Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two
Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier,
Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. Library Journal presented her with a Best Books 2014: Genre Fiction award in the Christian Fiction category for Firewall.

DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers; the 2015 president of the Romance Writers of America’s Faith, Hope, & Love chapter; a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, and International Thriller Writers. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas. DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms
listed at her website.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Two murders have rocked the city of Houston. Are they the work of a serial killer, or is a copycat trying to get away with murder?
That is the question facing Special Agent Bethany Sanchez, who is eager for her new assignment in violent crimes but anxious about meeting her new partner. Special Agent Thatcher Graves once arrested her brother, and he has a reputation for being a maverick. Plus, their investigative styles couldn’t be more opposite: he operates on instinct, while she goes by the book.

When hot leads soon fizzle out, their differences threaten to leave them deadlocked. But an attempt on their lives turns up the heat and brings them closer together, and a third victim might yield the clue that will help them zero in on a killer. This could be the case of their careers . . . if they can survive long enough to solve it.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Deadlock, go HERE.

Watch the video:

My Thoughts:

I. Loved.This. Book. It's as simple as that. When I met Special Agent Bethany Sanchez, my heart went out to her. When I met her partner, Special Agent Thatcher Graves, I lost my heart to him. Both these characters are a different as night is from day, yet they are very much alike. Ms. Mills used their weaknesses to make them stronger.

There is a serial killer on the loose in Houston and someone is targeting people that don't seem to have anything in common, or do they? Special Agents Bethany Sanchez and Thatcher Graves are on the case. Unfortunately someone is targeting them now. Will they succeed or succumb?

If you enjoy a good "on edge-of-your seat" suspense novel filled with twists and turns, then I am sure you will love DiAnn Mills newest "FBI: Houston" novel, Deadlock. The Christian theme isn't overpowering but it is there and plays a major part in the change these characters undergo.

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

I would like to thank Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and Tyndale Books for my copy of Deadlock. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Gone Without a Trace by Patricia Bradley

When I hear the name, Patricia Bradley, I think of fast paced Chrisitan Suspense that grabs you from the first page, hangs on to you and doesn't let you ago until long after you turn the last page. Her newest book, Gone Without a Trace, is book 3 he the "Logan Point" series. The first two books, Shadows of the Past (read my review here) and Promise to Protect (read my review here) were excellent books and I would highly recommend them all. 

In Gone Without a Trace Detective Livy Reynolds has just experienced an incident that makes her second guess herself. She is asked to take some time off and seek counseling in order to get herself pulled together. 

Private Investigator, Alex Jennings, contacts Livy regarding a senator's missing granddaughter. When Livy hears the circumstances surrounding the girl's disappearance it bears striking similarities to the disappearance of her cousin over two years earlier. Livy takes a strong dislike to Alex, but soon realizes if she wants to locate her cousin, she'll need to work with Alex. Will they learn to like each other? 

Waitresses with children have disappeared after receiving notes telling them to quit their jobs and go home to their children. Some are let go with no memory of what happened, some weren't so lucky. Will Livy be able to find her cousin? Is she alive and if so why hasn't she come back home? Will Alex be able to find the senator's granddaughter? Does she even fit the profile? All of these answers can be found inside of this edge-of-your-seat page-turner.

Ms. Bradley has a gift for creating believable characters that pull the reader into the book from the first page. The reader will find themselves rooting for the good guys and really hating the bad guys. When characters are as well crafted as Ms. Bradley's the story flows smoothly and the reader gets lost within the pages.

I don't know if there will be a Book 4 in the series but I sure hope there will be as I loved the Logan Point series and the characters who live there. All three books will definitely have a home on my 'keeper' bookshelves. I would highly recommend Gone Without a Trace along with the rest of the books in the series to anyone who loves a clean read filled with suspense.

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

I would like to thank Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group for my copy of Gone Without a Trace. I received my copy for free in order to read and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,

Double Cross by DiAnn Mills

I get so excited when I hold a new novel in my hands with the name DiAnn Mills on the cover. Through the years, Ms. Mills has become one of my favorite suspense novelists. Her newest novel, Double Cross, is the second book in her "FBI: Houston" series and I can hardly wait for book three in the series, Deadlock, which releases in Spring of 2016.

Double Cross  is the story of FBI agent Laurel Evertson and Houston Police Officer Daniel Hilton. Laurel is pulled into an investigation of a scam targeting the elderly. As she follows the evidence it leads her to a man she was 'engaged' to during a previous undercover assignment. Her former fiance claims he has become a Christian but Laurel finds it hard to believe.

Daniel Hilton's grandparents have been cheated out of some money in an insurance scam and he will do anything to protect them and get to the bottom of the scam even if it means joining forces with another agency. He soon joins forces with Laurel and her ex-fiance, Morton Wilmington who has been released from prison. Daniel also finds it hard to believe that Morton has changed his ways but time will tell.

Ms. Mills has once again created a cast of believable characters that pull the reader into their story and keeps them there until the very last page. With twists and turns a plenty, Double Cross, is a book I would highly recommend to anyone who loves a good suspense novel.

I would like to thank the DiAnn Mills and Tyndale House Publishers for my copy of Double Cross. I received my copy for free in order to read and give my honest review, which I have done.

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

Smiles & Blessings,

Buried Secrets by Irene Hannon

I always know when I pick up an Irene Hannon novel that I am going to be pulled into the story and held there until the last page is turned. Buried Secrets, Ms. Hannon's newest novel is the first in her "Men of Valor" series, and is a masterpiece in suspense. 

The story is about Police Chief Lisa Grant and ex-Navy SEAL, Mac McGregor. Mac is now a detective for the county and when some human bones are found at an excavation site, Mac and Lisa meet and begin a journey of discovery. Both a discovery surrounding the bones and a discovery about each other. 

Because of a very small piece of evidence that was buried with the bones, Lisa is able to discover who the bones belonged to and with that she sets out on a journey to find out what happened and who was behind the blunt force trauma to the skull.

Ms. Hannon is a master at providing twists and turns in her suspense novels that keep the reader engaged and guessing. Buried Secrets did exactly that. While the reader is clued in to the identity of who buried the person early on in the story, the twists and turns that the story took kept me guessing as to what really did happen.

If you enjoy a good clean suspense story I would highly recommend picking up a copy of Buried Secrets, I am sure you will love it and might find yourself staying up late into the night to finish it. I am looking forward to the second book in the series, which will be released in the Spring of 2016. Based on the excerpt in the back of Buried Secrets the next book in the series looks to be just as exciting, It is the story of Mac MacGregor's younger brother Lance, a former member of Delta Force who is now working for the FBI. He was introduced in Buried Secrets and I look forward to getting to know him better.

I would like to thank Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my copy of Buried Secrets. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

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

Smiles & Blessings,

A Promise to Protect by Patricia Bradley

A good suspense novel is always difficult for me to pass up, especially when it is the second in a series and I loved the first in the series. Patricia Bradley's debut novel, Shadows of the Past (read my review here) was an excellent book so when given the opportunity to read her sophomore offering, A Promise to Protect, the second book in her "Logan Point" series I, of course, jumped at the chance. 

A Promise to Protect is the story of Dr. Leigh Somerall and acting Sheriff Ben Logan. Ten years prior to the start of the story, these two characters shared a relationship that ended abruptly hurting them both. Fast forward to current day and Dr. Somerall has a secret she is trying to protect and fears someone will find out. Sheriff Logan has a bad memory he is trying to forget that is causing him to have a fear of his own. Both characters have to face their fears head on. Will they be able to get past their fears and move forward with their lives?

I love characters that pull me into their world and keep me there until the last page is turned. Ms. Bradley has created well developed characters that seem real and keep the story moving forward. The secondary characters in the book are just as real and entertaining.

This is a story of secret betrayals, forgiveness and second chances at love. It is a story that will have you rooting for the characters and cheering them on to their happily ever after.

If you enjoy a good suspense novel, I would highly recommend picking up a copy of A Promise to Protect. Due to an indiscretion in the characters lives prior to the start of the story, I would suggest this be a novel for mature readers.

I would like to thank Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, for my copy of A Promise to Protect. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

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

Smiles & Blessings,

Silenced by Dani Pettrey

When given the opportunity to read and review Silenced by Dani Pettrey, I jumped at the chance. Silenced is the fourth book in Ms. Pettrey's "Alaskan Courage" series. The first book in the series is Submerged, the second in the series is Shattered (read my review here) and the third book in the series is Stranded (read my review here). Hi haven't read the first book in the series yet but I will very soon. While each book can be read as a stand alone book, I would highly recommend reading them all in order. I absolutely love this series and the McKenna family.

This book is Jake and Kayden's story and while they appreared in the other books, this book has given the fans of this series what we've all been waiting for.  Smile.

Ms. Pettrey has created a wonderful, suspenseful story that kep me guessing up until all was revealed. Her characters are masterfully created leaving the reader thinking about them long after they read the final page and close the cover. 

I can hardly wait for Spring 2015 when Sabotaged releases. If I had to guess, I would say this will be Reef McKenna's story. If his pairing with Kirra in Silenced is any sign of things to come, Ms. Pettrey will have another winner on her hands.

I would highly recommend Silenced to anyone who enjoys a good Christian suspense novel.

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

I would like to thank Bethany House Publishers for my copy of Silenced. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,

CFBA - Lip Reading by Harry Kraus M.D.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Lip Reading

David C. Cook (March 1, 2014)

by

Harry Kraus


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from Harry:

I started writing my first novel during my last year of surgery training at UK. I was a chief resident, and started writing Stainless Steal Hearts in a call room at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Lexington. It was a crazy time to write! I had a very demanding schedule, often spending days and nights in the hospital. I had two sons at that time, and I recognized the wisdom in my wife's urging: "Now doesn't seem the right time for this dream."

My experience as a writer is far from typical. Having received my formal training in biology and chemistry and medicine, my only preparation for a writing career was a love for reading. The longest thing I'd written before my first novel was a term paper in undergraduate school. My first novel was accepted by Crossway Books and published in 1994, and it wasn't until after I had FOUR published novels that I even opened a book of instruction about the craft of writing fiction. This is not what I recommend to others! Yes, I was successful, but I was bending the "rules" without knowing it. I had a natural talent for plotting, but I realize my initial success may have stunted my growth as a writer. I'd have made faster progress if I'd have gone to the fiction teachers sooner.

I have three sons: Joel, Evan, and Samuel. Look closely in all of my books and you'll see them there. My lovely wife, Kris, provides the basic composition for all those beautiful, athletic, dedicated women in my novels.

ABOUT THE BOOK

She Could Save Millions, or Save Herself


She just needs a little longer. She’s really close. Dr. Rebecca Jackson, a medical researcher, stands on the verge of a breakthrough that will transform medicine. But she soon discovers the reason behind the miraculous progress in her research, and it leaves her with a nearly impossible choice . . . and little time to decide. More than her research is at stake. And more threatens it than this latest revelation. Something she’s tried hard to cover up. There is a high cost to some things in medicine and it’s not always the patient who pays. Can Rebecca find the faith and wisdom she needs to make the right call? The clock is ticking and the pressure is on.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Lip Reading, go HERE.

MY THOUGHTS:

When I had the opportunity to review Lip Reading, by Dr. Harry Kraus, I jumped at the chance.  Afterall, I studied sign language for many years and lip reading became part of signing. This book has nothing to do with the deaf or sign language. I must say at first I was disappointed but as I climbed further into the book it didn't matter.

Dr. Rebecca Jackson appeared to be a vain and selfish person when the book starts but Dr. Kraus allowed the reader to experience her road to salvation and the beautiful transformation that took place. Dr. Noah Linebrink loved her in high school and still loves her.  Becca would like a chance at love again, love with Noah, but will she have the chance? I was rooting for them all the way.

Dr. Kraus made me care about Becca and Noah, I mean really care about them. They became real on the written page. Melissa, an old friend of both Becca and Noah was not a character that endeared herself to me. Her character always came off as a jealous person who always wanted Noah for herself and she was standing in the wings waiting for just the right moment to pounce. Since I don't give out spoilers.

I must say, Dr. Kraus has presented the reader with an extremely well written Christian Suspense novel that will reach out, grab the reader, and pull them into the story.  Beware, a box of Kleenex may be required when reading Lip Reading as tears may well be shed. Happy tears or sad tears, I cannot say as I never give out spoilers.

I would highly recommend Lip Reading to mature readers who enjoy a good Christian Suspense.

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

I would like to thank Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and David C. Cook publishing for my review copy of Lip Reading. I received my copy for free in order to read and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,

Butterfly Palace by Colleen Coble - a review

As a huge fan of Colleen Coble, I always jump at the chance to review one of her books. I have to say that when I first began reading Butterfly Palace it seemed to move slower than most novels by Ms. Coble. In fact, I wasn't so sure I was going to like it and almost gave up on it. But, I told myself I couldn't give up because after all it was written by Colleen Coble and it was worth the read. I was so glad I continued reading as once it grabbed me and pulled me into the story I was in for a wonderful suspenseful and somewhat dark ride.

The story begins in Larson, Texas in 1900 when Lily Donaldson and Andy Hawkins are in love and find they have to sneak around in order to spend time together. One fateful night they are together while their fathers are doing business in the livery stable which is connected to Lily's house. When they smell smoke they run out to see that the livery stable is on fire and there is nothing they can do to save the lives of their fathers. Andy leaves that day never to return and without telling Lily goodbye. 

Four years later, after Lily's mother passes away, she finds herself in need of work and journeys to Austin, Texas where she was hired in as a servant at the Butterfly Palace. During her first night, while serving dinner, she sees Andy dining with the guests as if he were of their stature. When he spies Lily he knows he owes her answers so he looks for the chance to take her aside to talk with her. He tells her he goes by Drew Hawkes now and begs her to keep his secret. What he eventually tells her is that he is working undercover as part of the Secret Service.

There are several suspenseful threads woven within Butterfly Palace. There is a serial killer on the loose killing blond servant girls within the city, there is a counterfeit ring that Drew it working on bringing down and there is a conspiracy to assassinate the new Senator Elect and possibly the President of the United States. Ms. Coble does an outstanding job of creating twists and turns and then tying everything up quite nicely. I must admit she had me guessing until the very end.

I have always found that Ms. Coble creates such believable characters that they stay with you long after you finish reading the last page. I will admit that one character grabbed me from the first moment we met on the page, that would be Belle Castle.  I loved seeing this 'somewhat of a brat' grow within the covers of the book. Watching her transformation was like watching a butterfly emerge from a caterpillar's cocoon. Simply beautiful.

I would highly recommend Butterfly Palace to mature readers who love a great suspense novel.

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

I would like to thank Thomas Nelson and BookLook Bloggers (formerly BookSneeze) for my review copy of Butterfly Palace. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,

Shadows of the Past by Patricia Bradley

 I have always loved reading debut novels, so when I had the opportunity to read Patricia Bradley's debut novel, Shadows of the Past, I jumped at the chance. This novel is an excellent Christian suspense novel with plenty of romance mixed in and it is the first book in the Logan Point series.

The heroine, Taylor Martin, is a psychology professor and criminal profiler who's father ran out on her and her family twenty years ago. The one case she wants to solve more than any other is finding out why her father left and where he is living.

As the story begins Taylor is at a crime scene and senses that she is being watched. But then she's had the feeling that she is being stalked for some time. In fact, she believes a former student of hers could be her stalker.  

At the crime scene she encounters mystery novelist Nick Sinclair. He just happens to be the brother of Scott Sinclair, the student that Taylor believes is her stalker. Can Nick convince her that his brother is innocent? Or is he?

Ms. Bradley has created wonderful, believable characters that pulled me into their story and led me through the twists and turns of their lives. I felt Taylor's terror from the very first page when she found a scrap of paper in her pocket with the words, "Death unfolds like a budding flower, Tentatively, sweetly, unfurling in majestic power until then, my love...until then". Much later, when she is down in the 'tunnels' I could smell the damp, dank odors that the character expressed. I could feel the pain Taylor felt when she learned... oh wait... I never, ever give out spoilers...

I would have to say that Shadows of the Past was one of the best novels I've read within the last year.  I would highly suggest this book to anyone who loves a good, clean, mystery.  The Christian thread wasn't overpowering and blended in well throughout the story. I loved the one statement made on page 233 when Taylor said, "You don't get cleaned up to come to him. He cleans you up afterwards".

Shadows of the Past released today, February 1, 2014 and I can hardly wait until this fall when A Promise to Protect, book two in the Logan Point series is released

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

I would like to thank Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group for my copy of Shadows of the Past. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,