Canyon of Deceit by DiAnn Mills

Canyon of Deceit is the newest Christian romantic suspense novel from award-winning DiAnn Mills. This book is written in first-person POV (point of view) with alternate narrators. I haven't always been a fan of first-person POV novels; however, Ms. Mills does it so well that I have come to enjoy it.

Ms. Mills has a wonderful talent for blending history, well-developed characters, and a great suspense thread

The main characters of Canyon of Deceit are  Therese Palmer, a wilderness survival expert, and Blane Gardner, a Texas Ranger with expert negotiating skills. 

Threse receives a call from Professor Rurik Ivanov, from the University where she had taught a survival course the year before. His 8-year-old daughter, Alina, has been kidnapped, and he is requesting Therese's help in finding her. This will require her survival skills and martial arts skills in order to find the young girl.

Therese had contacted Texas Ranger Gardner, whom she met at a wilderness survival class. She asks for his help in finding Alina, but lets him know the Professor wants things kept quiet. Therese has a feeling that more is involved than just the kidnapping. Could Russian organised crime be involved, or maybe something more nefarious? 

There are sparks between Therese and Blane, but Therese doesn't want to get involved with a non-Christian. Blane said his faith is real and asks for a chance to show her that he has changed. Will a fire ignite between them?

If you like Christian Romantic Suspense novels that are filled with twists and turns, I would highly recommend Canyon of Deceit. 

On a five-star scale, I give it 5 Stars!

I would like to thank the author, DiAnn Mills, for my copy of Canyon of Deceit. 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,

Trace of Doubt by DiAnn Mills

As a huge fan of DiAnn Mills, I was so excited to hold her newest novel, Trace of Doubt, in my hands as I knew it would be an exceptional read.

From the opening page, I was drawn in and captivated by the suspense, faith, and love throughout the book until the final sentence. It was definitely a book that once you start reading it you will find it very hard to put down.

The heroine of the story is Shelby Pearce, a recently released ex-con who served 15 years for a crime she confessed to committing but she actually didn't commit. She has been offered a place to stay and a job in Valleysburg, a town in Texas. The hero is Denton McClure, an FBI Special Agent who is working undercover. His job is to try to locate the $500,000.00 that went missing after Shelby supposedly murdered her brother-in-law. He believes Shelby knows where the money is.

I always love the characters that Ms. Mills creates as they always become so real to me. She didn't disappoint me with Shelby and Denton. They are both strong characters with a purpose. I also really like the character of Edie, Shelby's landlord as she stood her ground against her brother, a local deputy who didn't want Shelby in town. Edie believed in Shelby and gave her the benefit of the doubt.

In a nutshell, Shelby Pearce has just been released from prison after serving 15 years for killing her brother-in-law. While she didn't kill him she stands firm on her confession obviously covering for the person she believes did the crime. At the time of the murder $500,000.00 dollars went missing leaving Shelby the number one suspect. This crime she adamantly claims she did not do.

Shelby's family disowned her so when she is released she is offered a cabin to live in and a job at a local bakery so she will be compliant with her probation officer. Denton, working undercover, is living in the cabin next to Shelby's so he can keep surveillance on Shelby.

This story has a fast pace taking the reader on an edge-of-your-seat roller-coaster ride into a world of nail-biting suspense and sweet romance. I also loved the Christian thread throughout the book.

I loved this book and would highly suggest it to anyone who loves a clean fast-paced suspense novel.

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

I would like to thank the author, DiAnn Mills, for my copy of Trace of Doubt. 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,

Airborne by DiAnn Mills

 

Wow! I am an avid fan of DiAnn Mills and when I had the opportunity to read and review her newest novel, Airborne, I found I was reading a novel that could have been taken out of today's headlines. As we all know, the world is battling COVID-19 and in Airborne the characters are battling a mysterious virus outbreak known only as H9N15. The outbreak occurs onboard a plane en route to Germany. 

The main character in this book is Heather Lawrence, an FBI agent, who just happens to be on the plane where the outbreak occurs. Hours into the flight people began to get sick and unfortunately some die. The plane is ordered to change course to JFK airport in New York.

Heather's estranged husband, Dr. Chad Lawrence, happens to be waiting to start a new position in the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases which is a part of the influenza division at the CDC in Atlanta. Unfortunately, rumors begin that maybe he had the virus released on his wife's flight because she wouldn't sign the divorce papers. I must admit I was kept guessing all through the book and was surprised with who actually did the dirty deed.

I could tell you more about the storyline but I don't like releasing spoilers. So I will just say that the storyline keeps the reader turning pages at a rapid pace with a lot of surprises.

Ms. Mills has a phenomenal way of creating very believable characters that pull the reader into their world from the very start. That is something I always look for in a book because if the character doesn't pull me right at the start, I usually won't continue reading the book.

I loved the thread of faith in this book. One person renewed their faith while another found faith. 

I would highly recommend this book to mature teens and adults who enjoy a good suspense novel.

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

I would like to thank the author, DiAnn Mills, for my copy of Airborne. 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,

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.

Burden of Proof by DiAnn Mills

DiAnn Mills newest novel, Burden of Proof, is another wonderful romantic FBI suspense novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Back Cover Copy:

REELING FROM A NEGOTIATION GONE WRONG, FBI Special Agent April Ramos is caught off guard when a frazzled young woman shoves a crying baby into her arms, then disappears. Worry for the child's safety quickly turns to fear when a man claiming to be the girl's father abducts them at gunpoint. April puts her hostage negotiation skills to use to learn more about who she's dealing with: Jason Snyder, a fugitive accused of murder.

As Jason spins a tall tale about being framed for the killing of his business partner, April must sort through his claims to find the truth. A truth that becomes all the more evident after April overhears a conversation between Jason and the local sheriff and realizes something more sinister may be happening in their small town of Sweet Briar, Texas. But aligning herself with a known fugitive to uncover the burden of proof could cost April her job...or worse, her life and the lives of other innocent people.

My Thoughts:

I absolutely loved Burden of Proof by DiAnn Mills. It is a fast-paced, sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat roller-coaster ride that will have your heart pounding from the first few words, "Eerie feelings are rarely something to ignore,..."

The characters of FBI Special Agent April Ramos and Jason Snyder are unlikely candidates for a love connection but Ms. Mills has created a heart within Special Agent Ramos that allows her to see beyond what appears to be true to actually see the real truth. Well, done Ms. Mills.

I would highly suggest Burden of Proof to anyone who enjoys reading a good, clean romantic suspense novel. I guarantee you will be held captive from the first page through the last page.

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

I would like to thank the author, DiAnn Mills, for my copy of Buren of Proof. 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,

The Road to Magnolia Glen by Pam Hillman

1792, NATCHEZ TRACE, MS

Bitter since his eldest brother abandoned their family in Ireland, Quinn O'Shea travels to Natchez, Mississippi, ready to shuck the weight of his duty and set off on an adventure of his own. It's time Connor, as head of the family, took responsibility for their younger siblings. While aboard ship, a run-in with three half-Irish sisters lands Quinn in the role of reluctant savior. Though it may delay his plans, he can not abandon the Young sisters, especially the tenacious yet kind Kiera.

Upon arriving in the colonies, Kiera Young prepares to meet her intended and begin her new life. But she soon discovers it's not a marriage of convenience her brother-in-law arranged, but a far more sinister deal was negotiated for her and her sisters.

Quinn offers to escort his charges safely to Breeze Hill Plantation and his brother's care, fully intending to seek his freedom elsewhere. But the longer he remains, the greater his feelings toward Kiera grow and the more he comes to realize true freedom might be found in sacrifice.

My Thoughts:

The Road to Magnolia Glen is the second book in Pam Hillman's "A Natchez Trace" series. The first book centers on Connor O'Shea. In this book, the reader is introduced to Connor's brother Quinn. Quinn head to America just as Connor had in the first book. During the journey, he meets an Irish lass, Kiera Young.  Sparks fly during their journey making me quickly turn the pages to see what was in store for this couple.

This is a wonderful historical novel with romance and mystery mixed in along the way. It grabs you from the beginning and pulls you along at a quick pace making you want to continue turning the pages faster and faster until you reach the 'sigh-worthy' ending.

Highly recommended! 5 Stars!!!!!

I received a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy from the author and was under obligation to leave a positive review.

Smiles & Blessings,

High Treason by DiAnn Mills

WHEN SAUDI RINCE OMAR BIN TALAL visits Houston to seek cancer treatment for his mother, an attempt on his life puts all agencies on high alert. FBI Special Agent Kord Davidson is the lead on the prince's protective detail because of their long-standing friendship, but he's surprised--and none too happy--when the CIA brings one of their operatives, Monica Alden, in on the task force after the assassination attempt.

     Kord and Monica must quickly put aside interagency squabbles when they learn of the prince's additional motives for his visit. If his business plans are successful, they could lead to stronger ties with the US and encourage westernization in his own country. Such plans could easily incite a number of suspects both in the US and countries hostile to Saudi Arabia. Worse yet, the would-be assassin always seems to be one step ahead of them, implicating someone close to the prince--or the investigation. But who would be willing to commit high treason, and can Kord and Monica stop them in time?

MY THOUGHTS:

In one word... WOW! While I have truly loved every book I have read by DiAnn Mills, her newest novel, High Treason, blew me away! It is the third book in her "FBI Task Force" series but it reads as a stand-alone.

This book is filled with twists, turns, and plenty of heart-stopping action that will keep the reader engaged from page one to the final page. At times I found myself holding my breath just waiting to see what happened next.

I am a big fan of good characterization and Ms. Mills never disappoints me. She has created a group of characters from different cultures and let them take control of the story in such a way that they pulled me into the story with them. I thoroughly enjoyed the interaction between all the characters but especially the banter between the heroine, CIA Operative Monica Alden and FBI Special Agent Kord Davidson. At times their bantering made me laugh out loud and other times I wanted to know some sense into one or the other.

There is a religious theme that runs throughout. Kord confesses to Monica that he has read the Bible twice and the Koran twice but he is still searching. I really liked the way Ms. Mills wove this aspect into the story and I enjoyed watching the journey that Kord took to come to the decision he finally made.

I could go into a little detail about the plotline but that would totally be a spoiler which I do not like to do. Let's just say it is jam-packed full of adventure, intrigue, friendships, and romance. I can guarantee you that everyone who reads this book will find something special in it. I highly recommend this book.

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

I would like to thank the author for my copy of High Treason. I received my complimentary copy with no expectations of a positive review.

Smiles & Blessings,

He Holds My Hand - Experiencing God's Presence & Protection by Carol Kent

I CLING TO YOU; YOUR STRONG RIGHT HAND HOLS ME SECURELY. Psalm 63:8

CAROL KENT wrote this 365-day devotional during a time in her life when she was desperate to hear God's voice and feel His comfort. Now, she shares the encouragement she received from God.

LISTEN TO GOD'S VOICE IN SCRIPTURE. REMEMBER, HE HOLDS YOUR HAND, AND HE WON'T LET GO.

MY THOUGHTS:

He Holds My Hand is a beautiful 365-day devotional that originated out of a tragic experience in the author's life.

This devotional begins with January 1st and ends with December 31st. Each day's devotion is titled with the month and date, as well as, a title. For example for today, the title is "The Best Defense". The author has collected numerous quotations from various Christians, many names quite well known, and she has started off each day's devotion with a quote that is relevant to the title for the day. The body of the devotion reads as if God Himself is speaking to you and at the end, we are given a pertinent Bible verse. In the back of the book, there is a Scripture index which will lead you to the date(s) the Scripture can be found.

What I really like about this devotional is the way Ms. Kent wrote it as if God Himself was speaking. In her acknowledgment, she said this devotional came out of her practicing a new way of responding to God's Word. As she meditated on Scripture, she wondered if the way she conversed with God would be something that others would find helpful in their quest for renewed hope and fresh faith in their walk with God.

The only thing I would change about this devotional is I would have added a ribbon marker to keep the user's place. I chose a magnetic bookmark to use so I don't have to thumb through the pages to find the correct date.

I would highly recommend this devotional to anyone who would like to enrich their time studying the Bible.

On a 5-Star Scale - 4 1/2 Stars!

I would like to thank Tyndale Momentum for my copy of He Holds my Hand. I received a complimentary copy with no expectations for a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Smiles & Blessings,

The Promise of Breeze Hill by Pam Hillman

The Promise of Breeze Hill is Pam Hillman's first book in her "Natchez Trace" series. Based on this book, I would say her series will be a 'winner' for all who enjoy historical fiction

I fell in love with the characters in this book, the good and the bad. Ms. Hillman breathed life into a cast of characters from plantation owners and indentured servants, to piratous cut-throats and just plain mean folk. She did it well as I rooted for them, yelled at them and wanted to wring some of their necks.

The leading characters are Isabella, plantation owner, and Connor, indentured servant. Sparks fly between these two whenever they appear in a scene together. Connor, oh, my, my, my, what a swoon worthy character. He is definitely one of my favorite hero characters of all time. Right up there with Rhett Butler.

There are several topics that Ms. Hillman tackled within the covers of this book. Pride, commitment, jealousy and greed, just to name a few. Her characters tackled these issues and persevered, offering hope to all.

This was an extremely well-written historical novel with a Christian thread woven throughout. I would highly recommend this wonderful novel.

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

I would like to thank the author for my copy of The Promise of Breeze Hill. I received it 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,

       

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,

Drawing Fire by Janice Cantore

I must admit, reading Drawing Fire was the first book I have read by talented author Janice Cantore. Drawing Fire is the first book in the "Cold Case Justice" series. 

Ms. Cantore is a retired twenty-two year veteran of the Long Beach Police Department in California. That experience brought an authenticity to this book that another author might not be able to do. The book is also set in Long Beach, California which made it all the more believable.

I have always loved a good suspense novel and Drawing Fire is just that. It is packed with suspense, lots of action, plot twists and several surprises along the way.

The characters, Abby Hart and Luke Murphy, are well crafted and brought a reality to the story that made me want to learn more about them and therefore, I turned the pages rapidly. The Christian thread also flowed naturally and brought a reality to the story as well.

The ending of Drawing Fire wasn't as neatly tied up as I would have liked it to be, leaving it open for the next book in the series, which won't release until Spring, 2016. While I love continuity series in smaller books that release monthly, I really am not fond of them when the next book in the series doesn't release until a year later. 

I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers for my copy of Drawing Fire. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review.

On a 5-Star Scale- 4 Stars!

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,

Evergreen by Susan May Warren

Whether you are already a fan of Susan May Warren's Christiansen family or not, Ms. Warren's newest book in the Christiansen family series is one not to be missed. This is the story of the Patriarch and Matriarch of the family, John and Ingrid Christiansen.

This is the story of 'empty-nesters' and how they deal with having a house full of children to having none. At least for awhile anyway. Ms. Warren shows how John and Ingrid look at things differently and how they have to learn to compromise.

I will admit I shed more than a few tears in this book but I can't tell you why or it will ruin the story for you. I will suggest you have some tissues handy just in case.

Evergreen is the story of endings and new beginnings, of truth and consequences, of love and forgiveness. Ms. Warren has masterfully created characters that make the reader feel what they feel.

I would highly recommend picking up a copy of Evergreen. This book is a novella and while it is a mere 185 pages long it packs a powerful punch. It is a book that even if you never read any of Ms. Warren's other Christiansen family stories you should read this one. 

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

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

Smiles & Blessings,

When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren

I have become a big fan of Susan May Warren and her "Christiansen Family" series.  I just finished the third book in the series, When I Fall in Love, and I loved it! The first book, Take a Chance on Me, is on my Kindle waiting to be read, and the second book in the series is It Had to Be You (read my review here). There are quite a few family members so I'm sure we will be presented with several more books in the series in the future.

When I Fall in Love is the story of Grace Christiansen, a natural chef, and Maxwell Sharpe, a hockey player for the St. Paul Blue Ox. Grace is a homebody who would rather live with her parents and make magnificent meals while waiting to be accepted into culinary school and Max is a man who has a secret and chooses to stay to himself so he doesn't have to divulge it.

This is a story of hope, faith, trust and forgiveness. The characters seemed as real as everyday people and as each one graced the pages of this wonderful book they reached out their hands and drew the reader into the story. The plot was very much character driven.

The subplot is about Raina Beaumont and two of the Christiansen men, Owen, a man with a wounded past and his brother Casper, who is searching for his future. If I had to guess, these characters just might be the subject of a future novel in this series.

I truly love books that are clean reads but I must say that something happened in the early part of the book that made me think about closing the book and not continuing. But because it was written by Ms. Warren I thought she deserved for me to continue on to see what she made of it. I am so glad I didn't close the book as I would have missed out on so very, very much. There are lessons to be learned within the cover of When I Fall in Love and I hope you all pick up a copy and enjoy the read.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good contemporary romance novel.  You'll be whisked away from Minnesota to Hawaii and back again and I am sure you will enjoy the journey.

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

I would like to thank Litfuse Publicity and Tyndale House Publishers for my review copy of When I Fall in Love. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,

CFBA Firewall by DiAnn Mills

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Firewall

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (July 1, 2014)

by

DiAnn Mills

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DiAnn Mills believes her readers should “Expect an Adventure.” She is a fiction writer who combines an adventuresome spirit with unforgettable characters to create action-packed novels. Her books have won many awards through American Christian Fiction Writers, and she is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader’s Choice award for 2005, 2007, and 2010. She was a Christy Award finalist in 2008 and a Christy winner in 2010.

DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, and is the Craftsman Mentor for the Christian Writer’s Guild. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops.

DiAnn and her husband live in Houston, Texas. Visit her website or find her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/diannmills


ABOUT THE BOOK

After a whirlwind romance, Taryn Young is preparing to board a plane at Houston International Airport, bound for a dream honeymoon, when a bomb decimates the terminal. Injured but still alive, she awakens to discover her husband is missing and they’re both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn’t who he appears to be.


Agent Grayson Hall’s number-one priority is to catch those responsible for the day’s act of terror. All evidence is pointing to Taryn and her new husband. But his instinct tells him her pleas of innocence are genuine. Is her naiveté just for show, or could she truly be another victim of a master scheme, possibly linked to the software she recently developed for her company?


With both their lives and reputations on the line, and the media outcry for justice increasing with each passing minute, Taryn and Grayson have no choice but to trust one another . . . and pray they can uncover the truth before they become two more casualties.


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

My Thoughts:

Oh. My. Goodness. Firewall, the first book in DiAnn Mills series, "FBI Houston" blew me away. This novel was well worth my time and kept me reading late into the night. If this is any indication of the rest of the series, I can hardly wait.

Firewall is the story of software developer, Taryn Young, and FBI Special Agent, Grayson Hall. The story begins on Taryn's wedding day. A day that turned tragic and landed her in the hospital after the airport is bombed. But the question everyone wants answered is where is Taryn's husband, Francis Shepherd?

The twists and turns within the pages of Firewall takes the reader on a wild ride involving airport bombings, kidnapping, murder, computer hacking, just to name a few. The character of Taryn became my hero within the pages of this book. She was strong-willed, intelligent, determined and extremely likable. The character of Grayson Hall stole my heart. He was described as having dark blond hair and startling blue eyes (not like the cover image) and he had a caring heart. He was also determined and this caused a little butting of heads. Grayson's Uncle Joe was charismatic and oh so lovable.

The story of Firewall seemed so real that it could have been taken right out of today's headlines. Ms. Mills is a master at crafting well plotted stories with believable characters that pull you into their world and hold you there for the duration of the book.  

I would highly suggest Firewall to anyone who enjoys a good clean suspense novel. The Christian thread is subtle and not overpowering.

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

I would like to thank the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, DiAnn Mills and Tyndale House Publishers for my review copy of Firewall. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,

Firewall by DiAnn Mills

Oh. My. Goodness. Firewall, the first book in DiAnn Mills series, "FBI Houston" blew me away. This novel was well worth my time and kept me reading late into the night. If this is any indication of the rest of the series, I can hardly wait.

Firewall is the story of software developer, Taryn Young, and FBI Special Agent, Grayson Hall. The story begins on Taryn's wedding day. A day that turned tragic and landed her in the hospital after the airport is bombed. But the question everyone wants answered is where is Taryn's husband, Francis Shepherd?

The twists and turns within the pages of Firewall takes the reader on a wild ride involving airport bombings, kidnapping, murder, computer hacking, just to name a few. The character of Taryn became my hero within the pages of this book. She was strong-willed, intelligent, determined and extremely likable. The character of Grayson Hall stole my heart. He was described as having dark blond hair and startling blue eyes (not like the cover image) and he had a caring heart. He was also determined and this caused a little butting of heads. Grayson's Uncle Joe was charismatic and oh so lovable.

The story of Firewall seemed so real that it could have been taken right out of today's headlines. Ms. Mills is a master at crafting well plotted stories with believable characters that pull you into their world and hold you there for the duration of the book.  

I would highly suggest Firewall to anyone who enjoys a good clean suspense novel. The Christian thread is subtle and not overpowering.

I would like to thank the author and Tyndale House Publishers for my review copy of Firewall. 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!!!!!

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

Smiles & Blessings,

Saving Amelie by Cathy Gohlke

I am a fan of historical novels written against the backdrop of WWII. Saving Amelie by Cathy Gohlke brings the world, as it was during that time, alive for the reader. She makes the reader feel as if they were there witnessing all the atrocities that were going on.

Ms. Gohlke has created believable characters and dropped them into a period of time where horrific things happened at the hand of Hitler's Third Reich in Germany. She did submit some historical characters into her story lending a feeling of authenticity to her novel.

Hitler wanted a pur Aryan race for his Germany and if a person or child didn't show the possiblity of being part of his perfect race he had them eliminated.

Amelie is a young girl who is deaf. Her father is a German officer who can't handle the fact Amelie is less than perfect and want to get rid of her. Amelie's mother, Kristine, wants to save her daughter even if it means she will never see her again. She asks her best friend, Rachel, to take charge of Amelie and asks that she take her out of Germany.

I loved the character of Jason, an American reporter, because he didn't give up on Rachel. I enjoyed how their relationship grew during this time.

There is so much packed into the 429 pages of this book. The reader is given a glimpse of how awful life was for the the people in Germany who didn't measure up to Hitler's plan for the perfect race.

I would highly recommend this historical novel to anyone who enjoys reading historical fiction. the characters appear to be real and will invite the reader to step into their world. Be prepared for a page turner that will keep you intrigued to the very last page.

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

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

Smiles & Blessings,

It Had to Be You by Susan May Warren - a review

I have to admit that while I have always heard wonderful things about Susan May Warren's work I had never read any of her books. So when I was given the opportunity to read and review It Had to Be You I jumped at the chance. Let me tell you, it was a wise choice and now I am a fan.

It Had to Be You is the second book in Ms. Warren's Christiansen Family series and while I believe it reads well as a stand alone, I plan on going back to read the first book in the series, Take a Chance on Me. Also, at the end of It Had to Be You they have included the prequel novella, I Really Do Miss Your Smile.

I am a huge hockey fan and I loved the fact that It Had to Be You centered around the world of hockey in the NHL. The male lead, Jace Jacobsen is a star hockey player and Eden Christiansen, the female lead has a younger brother who is a rising star in the NHL. Eden has always put her life on hold while making sure her brother Owen made his dream of playing in the NHL a reality. However, Eden tends to hover over Owen making sure he keeps out of trouble. She isn't a fan of Owen's team captain, Jace Jacobsen, as he is known as the team's "bad boy" enforcer. She believes Jace is nothing but trouble and is out to get whatever he wants no matter what it may cost others. When Owen suffers a possibly career ending injury, Jace and Eden team up and go to Eden's family's home to try to cheer Owen up. What they encounter there is, well, I don't give out spoilers so you will need to read the book to find out what happens there.

Eden dreams of becoming a true reporter but finds herself relegated to the role of Obits writer at her local newspaper. She feels if she can just get that one story she'll be moved up to reporter. While visiting her brother in the hospital she comes across a young comatose patient known only as John Doe. She decides to try to find out who he is so she can find his family and write her job winning story. 

There were several story lines woven within the covers of this book and I found each of them pulling me into the story and holding me there until I finished the last page. 

Ms. Warren captured the world of hockey very well and she created well balanced, believable characters that won over my heart from the moment I met them on the written page.

I would highly recommend picking up a copy of It Had to Be You. The Christian thread was beautifully woven throughout and I guarantee you will find a wonderful story that shows the reader that we shouldn't judge others as they may not really be who or what they appear to be.

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

I would like to thank Litfuse Publishing and Tyndale House Publishers for my review copy of It Had to Be You. I received my copy for free in order to read it and give my honest review, which I have done.

Smiles & Blessings,