Far Side of the Sea by Kate Breslin

     In 1918 England, Lieutenant Colin Mabry spends his days decoding messages for MI8 after suffering injuries at the front. When he receives an urgent summons by carrier pigeon from Jewel Reyer--a woman who saved his life and whom he believed to be dead--he can only hope he'll regain the courage he lost on the front lines as he's driven back into war-torn France.
     But Jewel isn't the one waiting for him in Paris. Instead, it is a stranger who claims to be her half-sister, Johanna, who works at a dovecote for French Army Intelligence. She found Jewel's diary and believes her sister is alive and in the custody of a German agent. With spies everywhere, Coli is at first skeptical of Johanna, but as they travel across France and Spain, a tentative trust grows.
     That trust is quickly put to the test, however, when their pursuit leads them straight into the midst of a treacherous plot and their search for answers quickly turns into a battle for their lives.

My Thoughts:

I absolutely loved this book. It was filled with suspense, intrigue, and romance. Kate Breslin has created a well-balanced novel set during WWI that will leave the reader wanting more.

I love characters that are not only believable but ones that make the reader want to really know them. Lieutenant Colin Mabry and Johanna Reyer were just that, believable and so real that I wanted them to walk off of the page. From the very first page, I was pulled into the story and loved every minute of it. 

I really can't say anything negative about this book. I loved it from cover to cover and would highly suggest it to anyone who loves clean historical novels filled with suspense.

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

I would like to thank the author for my copy of Far Side of the Sea.  I received my copy for free but I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR. Part 255.

Smiles & Blessings,

Blind Betrayal by Nancy Mehl

Back Cover:

After two years at the St. Louis U.S. Marshals Office. Casey Sloane is tasked with escorting a reporter to Washington to testify before a grand jury. The reporter's research on an up-and-coming environmentalist who suddenly disappeared is now even more vital than anticipated.

At first, Casey's assignment seems routine. But a dangerous attack on the Marshals Office puts everyone on high alert. When Casey and two other Marshals--one a man from her past--are forced on the run with the re[prter, they'll do whatever it takes to protect their witness and make it out alive.

My Thoughts:

In Nancy Mehl's newest book, Blind Betrayal (the third book in her "Defender of Justice" series) she treats the reader to a thrill ride of heart-stopping suspense.

The first line was enough to pull me in, "As Martin Avery waited to be murdered, he was surprised to find that more than anything else, he felt offended." It made me want to know more about Martin Avery and why he was waiting to be murdered.

Ms. Mehl did a wonderful job of building the suspense and keeping me riveted to my seat. Her characters were well developed and believable and carried me along on their journey leaving me breathless.

I would highly recommend Blind Betrayal to anyone who enjoys a good clean thrill-packed, suspenseful read.

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

I would like to thank Bethany House for my complimentary copy of Blind Betrayal I received my copy with no expectations for a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Smiles & Blessings,

A Chance at Forever by Melissa Jagears

     Determined to proctect the children of Teaville, Kansas, from the bullying she experienced as a child, Mercy McClain finds fulfillment working at the local orphanage and serving on the school board. When Aaron Firebrook, the worst of her childhood bullies, petitions the board for a teaching position, she's dead set against his getting the job.

     Aaron knows he deserves every bit of Mercy's mistrust, but he's returned to his hometown a changed man and is seeking the forgiveness of those he wronged. He doesn't expect Mercy to like him, but surely he can prove he now has the children's best interests at heart.

     Will resentment and old wounds hold them back, or can Mercy and Aaron overcome the past in time to battle the threats against the future of the town's orphan's?

MY THOUGHTS:

I am a huge fan of Melissa Jagear's work and I have patiently waited for her newest novel, A Chance at Forever, the third book in her "Teaville Moral Society" series. This newest book is a story of faith, love, redemption, and forgiveness.

The main characters, Mercy and Aaron, have issues from their past and present that they are trying to overcome. Aaron, in his youth, was known as George and he was a class A bully. It just so happened that Mercy was one of his targets as she has a deformed arm that he poked fun at. Mercy has a hard time believing Aaron has changed but the more time she spends with him and observes how he interacts with the orphans she soon finds that maybe more than just his name has changed.

This book is a beautiful story of love and how when we turn our lives over to God, things can change.

I would highly suggest this book to anyone who loves a good clean historical novel.

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

I would like to thank the author Melissa Jagears and Bethany House Publishers for my copy of A Chance at Forever. I received my complimentary copy with no expectations of a positive review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Hearts Entwined - Four Historical Romance Novellas of Love (With a Twist of Humor)

Hearts Entwined is a book filled with four novellas by authors Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears. They are stories of love with some humor mixed in.

FROM THE BACK COVER:

"The Love Knot" (Karen Witemeyer) - When Claire Nevin's troubled younger sibling sends her an unexpected package by rail, the gift and the man who delivers it--an unexpected face from the past--threaten to upend Claire's life forever. Fighting to hold on to all she has built, will she lose what matters most?

"The Tangled Ties That Bind" (Mary Connealy) - Connor Kincaid returns home determined to win the hand of the woman he was too young for when he left. But Maggie is training to be a doctor in a distant town, while Connor's about to settle on a ranch. Will either be willing to give up their dream? Or will they both have to give up the love of a lifetime?

"Bound and Determined" (Regina Jennings) - As punishment for his recklessness, Private Bradley Willis is sent on an errand to help a retired cavalry officer move a herd across Indian Territory. No one told him the herd would be camels instead of cattle, nor that the officer's headstrong daughter, Ambrosia Herald, would seem to be trying to undermine the whole enterprise. He's definitely been saddled with more than he's bargained for.

"Tied and True" (Melissa Jagears) - Wealthy Marianne Lister is in love with business assistant Calvin Hochstetler, but he can't see past the difference din their socail status. When Marianne takes a job to prove that she is prepared for a life of hard work alongside the man of her dreams, will it be enough to convince Calvin to risk it all for love?

MY THOUGHTS:

I do love books that include several novellas as they are great books to carry with me when I have to sit waiting for appointments. This book is exceptionally good because I enjoy all four authors. However, for this blog I am highlighting Tied and True by Melissa Jagears.

Ms. Jagears always presents a sweet romance with strong storylines. I love the characters in this novella and how the author showed that stations in life really don't matter as long as you have the love of the Lord in your hearts.

The heroine, Marianne Lister comes from a wealthy family but has cared for Calvin Hochstetler, a business assistant, for a long time. She flirts with him but he keeps his distance as he knows his station in life is far below hers. But Marianne's heart belongs to Calvin and she is detemined to prove to him that money doesn't mean anything to her, She decides to get a job in a factory to prove to Calvin she doesn't need her family's money.

I enjoyed how Ms. Jagears allowed the reader to see Marianne's big heart. In fact I believe the reader sees it faster then Calvin sees it.

I would highly recommend this anthology of novellas for anyone who enjoys clean historical novels.

I would like to thank author Melissa Jagears and Bethany House for my copy of Hearts Entwined. I received my complimentary copy with no expectations of a positive review.

Smiles & Blessings,

In Places Hidden by Tracie Peterson

The search for her missing brother leads to the most dangerous part of the city...

Camrianne Coulter's brother Caleb is a successful San Francisco attorney. But when three months go by without a word from the usually communicative Caleb, Camri boards a train to the booming West Coast city to find out for herself why he hasn't written. When she arries at his home, nobody seems to know where he is, or what has become of him.

Camri's search for her brother leads her deep into the political corruption of the city--and into the acquaintance of Patrick Murdock, who Caleb successfully defended from a false murder charge. Getting to know this handsome Irish contractor challenges all of Camri's privileged beliefs, but Patrick is unshakably loyal to her brother, and he seems to know more a bout what happened to Caleb than anyone else.

As the two edge closer to the truth behind Caleb's disappearance, they risk angering the powerful forces that control the city. Can Camri trust Patrick to protect her from the dangers that lie hidden in San Francisco backstreets.

MY THOUGHTS:

I must admit I haven't read many books  by Tracie Peterson and after reading her book, In Places Hidden, that will definitely have to change. This book is the first in her new series, "Golden Gate Secrets" and I can honestly say I can hardly wiat for the next book in the series, In Dreams Forgotten" which is due out in July 2018.

The story is set in 1905 and it is the story of three women who meet on a train heading to San Francisco. Thay each have their own mission that is leading them to this city and they all agree to help each other in their quests to achieve their goals. In so doing these decide to live together at Camri's brother's four bedroom house.

The characters are definitely well-developed and I loved how I was pulled into the lives of Camri and Patrick. I found both characters, along with the secondary characters quite engaging and look forward to getting to know all the characters even better in the next book.

This is a Christian historical novel that is filled with deception, mystery, romance and a lot more. I highly recommend this book to lovers of great Christian fiction.

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

I would like to thank Bethany House Publishers for my copy of In Places Hidden. I received my complimentary copy with no expectations of a positive review.

Smiles & Blessings,

The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright

Kaine Prescott is no stranger to death. When her husband died two years ago, her pleas for further investigation into his suspicious demise fell on deaf ears. In desperate need of a fresh start, Kaine purchases an old house sight unseen in her grandfather's Wisconsin hometown. But one look at the eerie, abandoned house immediately leaves her questioning her rash decision. And when the house's dark history comes back with a vengeance, Kaine is forced to face th3e terrifying realization she has nowhere left to hide.

A century earlier, the house on Foster Hill holds nothing but painful memories for Ivy Thorpe. When an unidentified woman is found dead on the property, Ivy is compelled to discover her identity. Ivy's search leads her into dangerous waters, resurrecting painful memories and forcing a reunion with the man who broke her heart. Can Ivy unravel the mystery and find a renewed hope before any other lives--including her own--are lost?

MY THOUGHTS

I love reading debut novels and also novels that combine two time periods. So when given the opportunity to read Jaime Jo Wright's debut The House on Foster Hill I was extremely happy. Her novel is set during 1906 and Present Day. This is a Gothic style romantic mystery and in my opinion was a home run for Ms. Wright. 

The author has created such a delectable story with wonderfully descriptive prose such as this gem found on page 22, "Cavernous windows opened in a silent scream on the face of the Gothic house tilted on the crest of Foster Hill. Its gables towered as if to mock her, and balconies curved in permanent, evil grins." Can't you just see and feel what Kaine felt as she viewed the house for the first time?

I loved the way the two time periods were woven together and how the author left small cliffhangers at the end of each chapter that completed a time period. It made this reader want to turn the pages faster and faster to get to the conclusion of both stories. 

The suspense was constant throughout the entire novel and the characters, Ivy and Kaine, both were in search of truth and hope.

I would highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a good Gothic romance or a good clean romantic suspense.

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

I would like to thank Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing, for my copy of The House on Foster Hill. I received a complimentary copy to read with no expectation for a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Smiles & Blessings,

High as the Heavens by Kate Breslin

Before I say anything else I want to state, I LOVED THIS BOOK! It is one of those books that once you start reading it you just don't want to put it down. Now with that said, I will give you the synopsis from the back of the book.

Back Cover Synopsis

     A British nurse in WWI German-occupied Brussels, Evelyn Marche spends her days at the hospital and her nights working at a cafe...or so it seems. Eve's most carefully guarded secret is that she also spends her nights carrying out dangerous missions as a spy for a Belgian resistance group.
     When a plane crashes as she's en route to a rendezvous, Eve is the first to reach the downed plane and is shocked to recognize the badly injured pilot as British RFC Captain Simon Forrester. She risks her life to conceal him from the Germans, but as the secrets between them grow and the danger mounts, can they still hope to make it out of Belgium alive?

My Thoughts:

This book was without a doubt the best book I have read by Kate Breslin. It begins in Belgium in 1917 in the midst of World War I. But it also goes back in time in the early part of the book. First we go back ten years when Evelyn Marche first meets Simon Forrester. The author then takes us back to 1917 and flip flops for a few chapters between 1917 and three years prior. I enjoy learning the back story in this way as we are given a chance to experience what happened instead of being told what happened.

Evelyn Marche is keeping secrets as she tries to do her best to help the Allies fight the German's any way she can. Which means she's a spy. I loved this character. She was strong willed and had spunk. She pulled me into her story from the very first and I rooted her on until the very end. Captain Simon Forrester is a character that I also loved. While he was serving in the Royal Flying Corps for Britain, he was actually from Scotland. I loved how the author put a little brogue in his dialogue from time to time.

The story is filled with secrets, pain, unforgiveness and ultimately forgiveness while unfolding a beautiful love story. A love for country, family, and friends.

It's not often that I have read works of  fiction set during the WWI and so I found this book even more enjoyable because I learned a lot about this war. Ms. Breslin obviously did extensive research and it showed.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good historical set during wartime. 

On a 5-Star Scale = 5 HUGE Stars!!!!! I loved this book!

I would like to thank the author, Kate Breslin, and Bethany House, for my copy of High as the Heavens. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

A Love So True by Melissa Jagears

Once again, Melissa Jagears has penned a book that tugs at your heartstrings as the heroine strives to help orphans and women of the red-light district to achieve a better life. With A Love So True, the second release in her "Teaville Moral Society", Ms. Jagears has presented a tough subject matter in a way that makes the reader want to help the characters. While this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. However, I would suggest you also read the first book in the series, A Heart Most Certain, (read my review here) as it introduces characters that also populate this book.

Back Cover:

     Evelyn Wisely loves working at the local orphanage, but her heart can't ignore the women of Teaville who are also in need. Her boss is willing to help build a shelter for them, but only if she gains the cooperation and financial support of other local businessmen.

     

     While David Kingsman plans to stay in Teaville just long enough to get his father's business back on solid ground, he's intrigued by Evelyn's cause and finds himself more invested with each passing day.

     Will their plans and partnership fall apart when confronted with all that is stacked against them, or can they trust in God's plan despite it all:

My Review:

The book takes place in the year 1908 and addresses the red-light district of Teaville, Kansas and one woman's dream of helping not only the orphans of the town, but also the broken women in the red-light district as well as their children. The main character, Evelyn Wisely makes it her mission to open up a home for these women who would like to get out of their pain-filled lives and become upstanding women, holding jobs and providing for their children. But Evelyn can't do it alone, she needs help and seeks her boss out to see if he will help.

Evelyn's boss, Nicholas, tells her that he will help but only if she can get support and financial backing of upstanding businessmen in the community. Enter the hero in the form of one David Kinsman, who is temporarily living in Teaville while he is attempting to get his father's new business back on solid ground. When he meets Evelyn, he finds himself intrigued and soon finds himself wanting to help her in her quest.

Both Evelyn and David are strong, well-defined characters that had me wrapped around their little fingers right off the bat. I loved Evelyn's heart for the "underdogs" and I especially loved how David put himself and his health in harms way to help Evelyn and the orphan son of red-light woman. The scenes written around this incident touched me deeply and were some of my favorite parts of this book.

This book is about loving without judging, forgiveness, getting over past hurts, and finding God's grace in the midst of an ugly world. It is a book that will touch your spirit and make you think about the world we live in today.

I would highly suggest this book to anyone who enjoys a good Christian Historical. Although, because of the subject matter, I don't believe it is a book for younger readers.

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

I would like to thank the author, Melissa Jagears, for my complimentary copy of A Love So True. I was given the book for free in order to read it and give my honest opinion.

Smiles & Blessings,

Still Life by Dani Pettrey

I am a huge fan of Dani Pettrey and after reading Cold Shot, the first book in her "Chesapeake Valor" series (read my review here), I could hardly wait to  read the second book, Still Life. It was just as good as the first book.

From the Back

SOMEONE IS OUT THERE. WATCHING HER. WAITING.

Blacklisted in the photography business over a controversial shot, Avery Tate answered an ad for a crime-scene photographer. She expected to be laughed at, but crime-scene analyst Parker MItchell hired her outright--and changed her life. But six months ago, when her feelings for Parker became too strong, she left his employ to sort out her heart.
     Now, for the first time, Avery is facing the world that rejected her to attend the gallery opening of a photography exhibit for which her friend modeled. But the only image of her friend is a chilling photo of her posing as if dead-and the photographer insists he didn't take the shot. Worse, her friend can't be found, and so Avery immediately calls Parker for help.
     As Avery, Parker, and their friends in law enforcement dig into the mystery, they find themselves face-to-face with a relentless and deadly threat.

My Thoughts:

The more books I read by Dani Pettrey, the more I fall in love with her writing and her characters. I love how, in each book, she introduces the majority of her characters, that will populate her series. While Still Life is Avery and Parker's story, we get a glimpse at the couple that will be front and center in her next book as well as hints to another possible book in the series. I have read books by other authors that try do this but to be perfectly honest, I believe Ms. Pettrey has a gift of weaving her characters into each book and she has excelled at it.

Still Life is fast paced and will keep you guessing right until the end but don't let your guard down as just when you think you know what is going on, there might be a twist or turn taking you in another direction. I found myself rooting for Avery and Parker all the way.

I would highly recommend Still Life to anyone who loves a good clean suspense novel.

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

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

Smiles & Blessings,

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,

Sins of the Past - by Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey & Lynette Eason

What does Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey and Lynette Eason have in common? Simply put, Sins of the Past. When I first saw this book that contains three novellas by three wonderful authors I had to snatch it up. 

From the Back Cover

Secrets and Lies. Danger That Will Never Go Away. Join Three Beloved Masters of Romantic Suspense for Novellas Where the Past Will Not Stay Buried.

Dee Henderson - "Missing"
A Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing from her retirement community. Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two soon launch into a race against the clock when they realize something dark may lie at the heart of the disappearance.

Dani Pettrey - "Shadowed"
Adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young Alaskan fisherman nets the body of a Russian open water swimming dcompetitor. Another swimmer, who'd been the dead woman's roommate years ago, is pulled into the search for answers as it grows more and more clear that something sinister is at play.

Lynette Eason - "Blackout"
A young woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong finds herself at risk years later when the real culprit is up for parole. The loot taken that night has never been found and he believes she knows where it's hidden--only her memory of that night has always been unreliable. Can she remember enough to find her way to safety?

My Thoughts

I loved this book! Each novella was written by three different writers, yet their voices are so similar that I found myself almost believing one person wrote all three novellas. I mean that as a total compliment to these wonderful authors, Bethany House did an awesome job of combining three authors who write similarly. It made one story flow to the next (even though the stories are all unrelated).

The characterization of all three novellas was excellent. Usually, because novellas are shorter in length, the reader doesn't really get to know the characters, but in all three novellas the characters seemed real and pulled me into their stories from the first page.

I would highly recommend Sins of the Past to anyone who enjoys a good clean Suspense novel and for all fans of Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey and Lynette Eason,.

On a 5 Star scale - 4.5 Stars!

I would like to thank NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for my e-copy of Sins of the Past. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Cold Shot by Dani Pettrey

What does the Gettysburg Cemetery, a forensic anthropologist and a park ranger have in common? That's simple, Dani Pettrey's newest novel Cold Shot. This novel is the first in Ms. Pettrey's newest series, Chesapeake Valor and if the first book is any indication, the rest of the series will present more wonderful books from this author.

Blurb from the back of the book:

Four Best Friends. And Then One Went Missing...

In college, Griffin McCray and his three best friends had their lives planned out. Griffin and Luke Gallagher would join the Baltimore Police Department. Declan Grey would head to the FBI and Parker Mitchell would study to become a crime scene analyst. But then Luke vanished before graduation and their world--and friendships--crumbled.

Now years later, Griffin has left the police and his friendships behind. Still trying to forget a case that went bad wen he was a SWAT team sniper, he's living a quiet life as a park range in Gettysburg. Quiet until skeletal remains are uncovered near Little Round Top--and they aren't Civil War-era.

Griffin just wants the case to go away, but charming forensic anthropologist, Finley Scott, discovers evidence pointing to the work of an expert sniper. When FBI agent Declan Grey steps in to take over the case, past and present collide. Griffin soon realizes he'll need to confront some of the darkest days of his life if e --and those he cares about--are going to escape a downward spiral of crime, danger, and murder.

* * * * *

My Thoughts:

While Cold Shot is Griffin and Finley's story, I love the way Ms. Pettrey introduces all the main characters that will soon populate the other books in the series. Some authors wait to fully flesh out other characters until "their" book but Ms. Pettrey gives us a wonderful introduction to her characters which only makes the reader want to read the next book all the more.

There is a sub-plot that begins in this book and I have a feeling it may carry out through the rest of the books, or who knows, it may be resolved by the end of Book 2. That sub-plot is what happened to Luke Gallagher?

Cold Shot is another wonderful and entertaining book from Dani Pettrey. The mystery surrounding the story kept me reading and guessing long into the night. Packed with some twists and turns I guarantee you will be taken on a wonderful journey within the pages of this book.

I fell in love with Griffin and Finley's characters and look to keep tabs on them in the coming books. They were well created and you almost feel that the characters are living and breathing and not just a creation in the author's mind. If you would like to get to know these characters a little more please visit the authors page here and you will be able to see the dossiers created for Griffin & Finley, as well as going on a virtual tour of the Chesapeake area where the story takes place.

I would highly recommend picking up a copy of this first book in the Chesapeake Valor series, especially if you love a good suspense novel.

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

I would like to thank NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for my e-copy of Cold Shot. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

With This Ring - A Novella Collection of Proposals Gone Awry by Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, Mary Connealy , & Melissa Jagears

While I love reading a full length novel, I thoroughly enjoy reading novellas. They are quick reads that can help tide a reader over until the next novel reaches their hands.

With This Ring?  is a collection of four stories by Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, Mary Connealy, and Melissa Jagears. It is an enjoyable read by four wonderful authors.

"The Husband Maneuver" by Karen Witemeyer is a sweet story about Marietta Hawkins and Daniel Barrett. Marietta has loved Daniel for years and now finds he may be leaving her father's ranch. What will Marietta do to in order to get Daniel to propose? 

This was a sweet story that I would love to see a full length novel to carry on their story. 

"Her Dearly Unintended" by Regina Jennings is the story of Josiah Huckabee and Katie Ellen Watson. While assisting Katie Ellen in trying to get her cows safely across the river, Josiah hadn't anticipated being stranded with her. When a stranger appears, Josiah and Katie Ellen pretend they are newlyweds in order to protect Katie Ellen. Will their fake marriage turn into something real?

Another sweet story with misunderstandings and a happy ending.

"Runaway Bride" by Mary Connealy is the story of Carrie Halsey and Texas Ranger Big John Conroy. Carrie's father has planned an arranged marriage for her but Carrie's sister, Audra steps in and has Big John come to her rescue. 

There was a lot of tension in this novella and I found it quite enjoyable. I would love to see an expanded story though.

"Engaging the Competition" by Melissa Jagears. This is the story of school teacher Harrison Gray and tomboy Charlotte Andrews who goes by the name of Charlie. Charlie's father has died and her mother hasn't accepted he truth yet. A neighboring farm has been stealing her animals and her ranch hands. She decides she must marry one of their family in order to keep her home and help her mom to get over her father's death. She proposes to August Whitaker and he accepts. 

The pastor can see Charlie has only gotten engaged out of convenience and he asks Harrison to go check on Charlie at her ranch. This causes Harrison and Charlie to face their past together. Charlie had embarrassed Harrison in front of his friends and Harrison couldn't get past it. Now they have been given another chance, but it is too late? Can the feelings of the past take them into a future together? And what about August?

I loved the entire collection of novellas but I must admit my favorite was "Engaging the Competion". I fell in love with Harrison and Charlie and would love to see an extension of their story.

I would highly recommend this book of novellas to anyone who loves a good sweet read and who enjoys short reads.

I would like to thank Melissa Jagears and Bethany House for my copy of With This Ring. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

Smiles & Blessings,

Not By Sight by Kate Breslin

After I read Kate Breslin's debut novel, For Such a Time (read my review here.), I knew she was a voice I wanted to read again and again. Her newest novel, Not By Sight, is another delightful read that I found hard to put down. If you haven't read either of Ms. Breslin's work you are truly missing out.

The characters in Not By Sight captivated me from the first few pages and carried me along in their story until the very last page. I was there in England during WWI. I felt what Grace Mabry felt and wanted to help her help her country and ultimately her brother. I gasped when I saw the Tin Man's mask. I could go on and on but what I am saying here is that Ms. Breslin captures the feeling of the period. She takes simple words and turns them into a beautiful masterpiece that any artist would be proud of and might even envy. 

I enjoyed watching as Grace Mabry matured into a compassionate woman. One who finally understands the ugliness of war, I loved watching Grace and Jack's story unfold. The descriptions of the settings took my breath away and made me want to go back to that time so I could envision all that the story depicted. 

There is so much that I could say about this book, but I do not give out spoilers and so therefore all I will say is if you enjoy reading historical fiction this book is a must. You will find espionage and treason, the love of country, the love and faith in God, grace and love and hope. I can also say, it is a book that should hold your attention so strongly that you might want to set aside some time to ingest the story otherwise you might find yourself reading long into the night.

I would highly recommend Not By Sight to anyone who loves a good read. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

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

I would like to thank Ms. Breslin and Bethany House Publishers for my copy of Not By Sight. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,

Hearts Made Whole by Jody Hedlund

I have heard nothing but wonderful things about Jody Hedlund's work and I have to be honest, this was my first experience in reading anything she has written. Heart's Made Whole is the second book in the "Beacons of Hope" series and while I believe it can be read as a stand alone, I really fill I missed out by not reading Love Unexpected, the first book in the series. 

Hearts Made Whole is a historical book set in the mid-1800s. As the cover portrays, it centers around a lighthouse and the people who maintain it. Without telling you too much I will say I loved the way Ms. Hedlund approached many issues that still exist today.

With romance and mystery, Ms. Hedlund takes the reader on a journey with two wonderful, yet flawed, characters, Caroline Taylor and Ryan Chambers. They were very well crafted and they brought the story to life. Their story is one of healing, grace, hope and love. 

If you are a fan Ms. Hedlund or even if you have never read a book by her, this is a must read for anyone who enjoys a good clean read.

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

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

Smiles & Blessings,

Together With You by Victoria Bylin

When I first heard of Victoria Bylin's debut novel, Until I Found You, I jumped at the chance to read it because I love debut novels. It was so extremely good (read my review here) that when I was given the opportunity to read her second book, Together With You, I jumped at the chance.

Carly Mason is an ex-social worker, working as a manager in a toy store while going to school for her PhD. in Social Welfare. When the story begins a young girl with FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) has been reported missing somewhere in the mall. When Carly hears the "Code Adam" over the Mall PA system she finds herself going back in time when one of her charges ran away and still hasn't been found. At a heightened alert she begins the Code Adam protocol in her store and finds Penny, a young girl who matches the Code Adam description. Soon Penny's father, ophthalmologist Dr. Ryan Tremaine shows up with his two sons to claim Penny. 

While talking with Carly, Dr. Tremaine explains to her that Penny suffers from FASD, but before he can explain what it is, Carly explains it to him. Dr. Tremaine is in need of a nanny. Someone who understands Penny's disorder would be icing on the cake. He asks her to come for an interview and at first Carly tells him no. But she soon changes her mind and accepts the interview.

This book explains a lot about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and the reader is shown what the outcome can be and how children need be handled. Ms. Bylin treated the subject with sensitivity and care.

Ms. Bylin created very believable characters and I found myself wanting to reach out and hug little Penny. I know Ms. Bylin did her research and wouldn't be at all surprised if she observed children with FASD over a period of time.

This story was about forgiveness, trust, and learning to believe and trust in God. While it is a love story between Dr. Tremaine and Carly, it is also a love story between Dr. Tremaine and his kids. There is also a small suspense thread in the early part of the book.

If you enjoy a good contemporary inspirational novel you will love this one. 

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

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

Smiles & Blessings,

Heart of Adventure Sweepstakes for Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey

Summary:

In SABOTAGED, the fifth and final book of author Dani Pettrey’s award-winning Alaskan Courage series, Kirra Jacobs and Reef McKenna experience the high stakes of Iditarod search-and-rescue when Kirra’s uncle, a musher in the race, goes missing. Kirra and Reef put aside their differences to search for him, but what they discover is harrowing: Frank’s daughter Meg has been kidnapped, and Frank must do the kidnapper’s bidding or Meg will die. Soon Kirra, Reef, and the entire McKenna family are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl’s life, but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen. 

 To celebrate their epic race, Dani and Bethany House Publishers are pleased to present the HEART OF ADVENTURE SWEEPSTAKES, and your chance to win one of three marvelous prizes, all closely connected to the story. 

Timeframe & Notifications: This giveaway starts February 2, 2015 and ends February 22, 2015 @ 11:59 pm (PST). Entry is open to US residents only, age 18 and over. Winners will be selected Monday, February 23, 2015, and announced at DaniPettrey.com.

GRAND PRIZE:

LUXURIOUS LODGE GETAWAY

During their cross-country hunt for answers, Kirra and Reef stop to rest at a gorgeous mountain lodge in Denali that holds special memories for Reef. This prize offers you a chance to build your own special memories, with a luxurious lodge getaway for two.

Our Grand Prize winner will receive: A $250 gift certificate to Hotels.com, good for reservations at lodges and hotels across the Continental US, Alaska, Hawaii, and numerous International locations



Heart of Adventure Sweepstakes SECOND PRIZE:

PALS WITH PAWS DONATION

In the Alaskan Courage series, Kirra is the proud owner of Nanook Haven, a rescue shelter for sled dogs. In real life, animals need rescue as well, and this prize will allow you to give a special gift to support an organization like Kirra’s.

Our Second Prize winner will receive: A $150 donation in your name, to the animal rescue, shelter, or veterinarian of your choice



Heart of Adventure Sweepstakes Third Prize THIRD PRIZE:

SWEETHEART SURVIVAL SLED

In SABOTAGED, Kirra and Reef take shelter in a snow cave while hiding from a man determined to put them on ice– permanently! Luckily, Kirra has a survival kit, to help them make it through the sub-zero temperatures.
If you prefer a little more romance and a little less suspense in your survival kit, this is the prize for you.

Our Third Prize winner will receive: A $100 value sweetheart survival pack. This gift basket includes double chocolate raspberry cake, smoked salmon, brie cheese and crackers, and a wide variety of gourmet snacks.

How to Enter:

Go here and complete the entry box, anytime between February 2 – 22, 2015.

Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the romantic suspense series Alaskan Courage, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, Silenced, and her latest release, Sabotaged. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their daughters, son-in-law, and super-adorable grandson.

Come back on 02/28/15 to read my review of Sabotaged.

Smiles & Blessings,