About Me I am a retired librarian and I now support books and authors through my reviews.

I have always loved to read and I was able to share that love through my work as a public librarian for 22 1/2 years. I now promote literacy by reading, and then writing reviews. I love to support authors by sharing my reviews with others!

Friday, September 30, 2022

The Amish Matchmaker (Paradise Valley #2) by Amy Lillard

The Amish Matchmaker
ABOUT THE BOOK

While most women her age are searching for husbands, Astrid Kauffman has chosen a different path--writing romance novels and donating her profits to her beloved Amish community. But when Astrid struggles with writer’s block, she agrees to play matchmaker for Imogene Yoder, a widowed mother of rambunctious twin boys. Perhaps the diversion—and the entrĂ©e it gives Astrid to the stories among the Widows’ Club—will spark her creativity . . .
 
Fortunately, Astrid has just the match for Imogene: a widower she believes is the finest, most handsome man in town. In fact, Astrid realizes he’s perfect . . . for herself! Soon, the plot thickens as Imogene questions what kind of marriage she really wants, and Astrid wonders what kind of matchmaker falls for someone else’s match. But by letting faith guide the way, all involved may discover true love has written a far better next chapter than any of them expected.



MY THOUGHTS.....

Imogene Yoder is a widow who desperately needs help raising her twin sons, Matthew and Mahlon, and who better to help her find a husband than an Amish romance writer? Astrid Kauffman rejects this matchmaking idea until she realizes that finding a husband for Imogene might help her spin a perfect plot for her next book.

'She had a plot. 'A brand-new plot to take a young widow and a handsome business owner and make them fall in love.'

There are complications galore in The Amish Matchmaker. Astrid finds the perfect candidate so what could possibly go wrong? Could it be that Ira Oberholzer would also be a perfect match for Astrid herself? I thoroughly enjoyed her often inept efforts to create the perfect romance for Imogene and Ira, and the antics of the two young Yoder twins and their new puppies, Huck and Hoss, had me laughing out loud. Mixed signals and romantic feelings for the wrong people make this an Amish romance that you won't soon forget, and I can't wait to read Amy Lillard's next book in the Paradise Valley series!

I received a digital copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Lillard is a 2013 Carol award-winning author who loves reading romance novels from contemporary to Amish. She was born and raised in Mississippi, but now lives in Oklahoma with her husband and their teenage son.  

Learn more about Amy at her Website     

Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     BookBub     Goodreads



THE PARADISE VALLEY SERIES

The Amish Matchmaker

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

The Prayer Jar Devotional: HOPE by Wanda E. Brunstetter, with Donna K. Maltese

The Prayer Jar Devotional: HOPE
ABOUT THE BOOK

Inspired by New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter’s The Prayer Jars series. . .
 
The Prayer Jar Devotional: Hope delivers the same life-changing inspiration as Wanda E. Brunstetter’s unforgettable stories. Every reading will help you draw closer to your heavenly Father.
Your prayer life will be transformed as you read through these dozens of encouraging devotional readings centered around the theme of hope. With each turn of the page, you’ll discover unchanging truths of God’s Word alongside meaningful prompts that guide you to write out your personal prayers or favorite, hope-filled Bible verses and then add to your very own prayer jar. (Simple instructions are included in the introduction.)

Once you’ve finished reading the last page, you’ll have a full prayer jar of your very own. Use it to infuse your heart with inspiration and encouragement when you need it—or share it with a friend who could use some faith restoration of her very own!


MY THOUGHTS.....

There is so much comfort and inspiration to be found in this collection of devotions from author Wanda E. Brunstetter. Each selection pertains to hope, an emotion that seems lacking in today's world, and each one has scripture, inspirational thoughts, and a prayer. I especially like that these devotions are divided into different categories, such as forgiveness, happiness, and courage. There's also a scripture index in the back that allows readers to quickly find a devotion that's applicable to their daily Bible study.

This is a small, attractive book with a hardcover that makes it perfect for gift giving but you definitely want a copy of your own! The Prayer Jar Devotional: HOPE is a great supplement to your worship time, and it's a wonderful way to improve your prayer life.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.



My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. With over 11 million copies sold, Wanda's stories consistently earn spots on the nation's most prestigious bestseller lists and receive numerous awards.

When Wanda visits her Amish friends, she finds herself drawn to their peaceful lifestyle, sincerity, and family ties. She and her husband, Richard, have been blessed with two grown children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.


To learn more about Wanda, visit her  Website  Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest  



Donna K. Maltese is a freelance writer, editor, and writing coach. Mother of two grown children, she resides in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, with her husband. Donna is active in her local church and is the publicist for a local Mennonite project that works to feed the hungry here and abroad.

You can learn by visiting Donna's Website       Facebook     Twitter

Mama, Sing My Song: A Sweet Melody of God's Love for Me by Amanda Seibert: Review & Giveaway

Mama, Sing My Song: A Sweet Melody of God's Love for Me
ABOUT THE BOOK

Mama, Sing My Song is a beautiful children's book about God's big love, giving families affirming words to shower on their kids, revealing the bright joy, deep care, and unending love they have in their hearts. Amanda Seibert, founder of Mama Sing My Song, the popular company that creates personalized songs for parents to gift to their children, knows that the words we speak over our little ones can shape them for years to come.

When we look at our children, we see those one-in-a-million grins, their crinkled noses, and sweet eyes looking back at us, which soften our hearts. God designed those babies uniquely, and Mama, Sing My Song is a celebration of all that is lovely and true about your child. Let your little ones know they are safe, loved, and cherished in your family.

This affirming picture book for 4- to 8-year-olds

celebrates the love between parent and child;
encourages kids to embrace God's love for them;
provides kids the security and love they're seeking; and
highlights all that is good in our little ones.

With snuggly illustrations of animal families, Mama, Sing My Song

features unique presentation pages to write your little one's name, plus space to journal special messages and a prayer for your child;
includes a free downloadable song;
is a great gift for baby showers, Mother's Day, Christmas, and birthdays; and
has a beautifully designed cover, perfect for displaying in a nursery or in a gift basket.
Hold your little ones a little closer as you share this timeless, heartfelt love note with them.




MY THOUGHTS.....

This new book is destined to become a children's book classic! It has beautiful colors, fantastic illustrations, and a story that will thrill your little ones. Author Amanda Seibert uses rhyming text to assure them that they are special and loved, by their mommy and daddy, and most of all, by God. Illustrator Sally Garland strengthens these thoughts with pictures of adorable animals and there's even a QR code if you want to download an audio version of the song.

I absolutely love this sweet book and I can see it becoming a family keepsake. The front and back inside covers have spots that allow parents to jot down special thoughts and messages that they can later share with their children, and it would also be a wonderful baby shower gift! Mama, Sing My Song is a great book to keep or to give!

I received a copy of this book via FrontGate Media. A positive review wasn't required.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars


GIVEAWAY


Tuesday, September 27, 2022

Pursued in the Wilderness by Loretta Eidson

Pursued in the Wilderness
ABOUT THE BOOK

Her baby's life…

depends on one man and his K-9

The murder of her ex-husband at a remote cabin and the discovery that the killers want to take her about-to-be-born baby sends Brooke Chandler running into the Tennessee mountains. She stumbles into the campsite of K-9 handler Trent Williston and his search-and-rescue dog, Rex. Trent vows to get Brooke and her baby to safety. But with the killers on their heels, the impending birth of Brooke’s baby and the threats of the wilderness, they must first survive…




MY THOUGHTS.....




What could be worse than going into labor miles away from medical help? How about being chased by someone who's determined to take your unborn baby as soon as he's born? Brooke Chandler braves her intense fears of snakes, bears, and coyotes as she flees into the Tennessee wilderness to find help before her baby arrives. Can she trust the camper who seems willing to give her help and sanctuary?

Brooke, her rescuer Trent Winston, and his search and rescue dog embark on a perilous journey filled with doubts, fear, and extreme danger. Author Loretta Eidson vividly describes the physical hazards and emotional struggles that these two strangers must overcome. Will they succeed in believing and trusting in each other and in God? Pursued in the Wilderness is an amazing debut novel, and I can't wait to read more of this author's books. Take my advice and grab a copy of this compelling 'roller-coaster ride' that has it all--romance, suspense, and a touching faith message.

I received a copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars







ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author Loretta Eidson lives by the motto ‘never a dull moment,’ especially with her husband, four children, and thirteen grandchildren. Her love of reading began during the required library time in middle school, where she devoured Phyllis Whitney’s mystery novels. She left her eighteen-year administrative assistant position at her church to pursue the dream of writing. She has multiple short stories in anthologies, but her heart is writing romantic suspense. She believes in the power of prayer and loves putting her hero and heroine in realistic predicaments where they must trust God to pull them through.

Loretta’s literary agent is Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency.

Learn more by visiting her   Website     Facebook     Instagram


Tracked Through the Mountains by Rhonda Starnes

Tracked Through the Mountains
ABOUT THE BOOK

To capture a killer they’ll have to brave treacherous territory

FBI agent Sawyer Eldridge is forced into a race against time when his sister is kidnapped by a serial killer. It’s a vicious act of revenge, and to save her, Sawyer is sent on a scavenger hunt in the mountains with bodyguard Bridget Vincent. But as Sawyer and Bridget work together to follow the killer’s clues, will they find Sawyer’s sister in time or are they being led into a trap?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.




MY THOUGHTS.....

It didn't take me long to read this book because, once I began, I couldn't put it down! Author Rhonda Starnes delivered the perfect formula for keeping my attention: intriguing characters, spine-tingling adventure, and multiple clues that kept me guessing. FBI Agent Sawyer Eldridge undertakes a dangerous scavenger hunt in the Great Smoky Mountains to find his kidnapped sister before she's killed by a deranged killer. He's aided by bodyguard Bridget Vincent but will their frantic rescue efforts put their own lives in jeopardy?

I enjoyed Starnes's use of cryptic clues from the killer, and I also appreciated the emotional growth and spiritual strength of Sawyer and Bridget during their time working together. Tracked Through the Wilderness is nail-biting suspense tempered by a message of love and redemption and I recommend it to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense.

I received a copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rhonda Starnes is a middle school language arts teacher who has dreamed of being a published author since she was in seventh grade. She lives in North Alabama with her husband, who she lovingly refers to as Mountain Man. They enjoy traveling and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Rhonda writes romantic suspense with rugged heroes and feisty heroines.


Learn more at Rhonda's     Website    Facebook    

I've also read and reviewed these other books by Rhonda Starnes!



Monday, September 26, 2022

Anna's Amish Fears Revealed (The Amish Women of Lawrence County Book 3) by Tracy Fredrychowski

Anna's Amish Fears Revealed: Book 3 The Amish Women of Lawrence County
ABOUT THE BOOK

Her faith in the Lord has been tried beyond all measure. Can this fearful believer rest secure in God’s protective care for her life?

Anna Byler is paralyzed by fear and anxiety. While the young Amish woman is devastated after Simon Kauffman leaves the Amish community, she finds little comfort in her new relationship with Jesus to fill the void Simon left behind.

Still wrestling with accepting God’s comforting peace, Anna sets out on a journey to uncover the truth behind Simon’s disappearance and then his untimely return to Willow Springs. But her discovery leads her to question both Simon and God’s ultimate promises.

Can this woman of faith find the courage to have a peace-filled assurance in every aspect of her life?

Anna’s Amish Fears Revealed is the inspirational third book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County series of women’s fiction novels. If you like spiritual explorations, real-life challenges of emotional bravery, and basking in God’s light, then you’ll adore Tracy Fredrychowski’s exploration of hope.


MY THOUGHTS.....

Anna's Amish Fears Revealed is the compelling story of a young Amish woman who allows fear and anxiety to color her life. The man who left her before they could be married has returned to Willow Springs and Anna Byler doesn't know how to cope. Simon Kauffman wants to repair their relationship but how can she overcome her deep feelings of hurt and betrayal? Her whole Amish existence was altered by his departure four years ago!

Author Tracy Fredrychowski kept me completely involved with the memorable characters and realistic conflicts in this touching story. Anna's belief that she may never have a family, Simon's struggle with a hidden secret, and a powerful faith message make this a story that I won't soon forget. Anna's Amish Fears Revealed is an excellent addition to the Amish Women of Lawrence County series and I recommend it to all who enjoy Amish fiction.

I received a digital copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars



ABOUT THE AUTHOR



Tracy Fredrychowski is a country girl, author, homesteader and everything simple living. She has a passion for writing about the simpler side of life, much like the life she lived growing up in rural Pennsylvania.
Her life has always been intertwined with the Amish, and it’s only fitting that she has a genuine passion for their simplicity, sense of community and God-centered lives.
Growing up in Northwest Pennsylvania she spent her childhood immersed deep in Amish Country.  The clip-clop of horse and buggy woke her each morning as Amish men drove past her childhood home on their way to work. As a young woman, she was traumatized by an Amish murder that involved a family member and changed her life forever.
Even though she currently lives in South Carolina her travels take her through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin’s Amish Country every year. During those stops, she researches the communities she visits and prides herself on writing Amish fiction that truly represents the Amish culture. She considers herself very fortunate to have made friends in those communities and values the information they share and wants nothing more than to represent their lifestyle as accurately as possible.

Follow her on Facebook     Twitter    Pinterest    Instagram or visit her Website

THE AMISH WOMEN OF LAWRENCE COUNTY
Emma's Amish Faith Tested
Anna's Amish Fears Revealed
View all my reviews

Saturday, September 24, 2022

Cicada Season (Miller's Creek 3) by Mindy Steele

Cicada Season
ABOUT THE BOOK

The Miller’s Creek matchmakers are multiplying, and they aren’t done with the Milford half dozen yet.

Hannah Troyer thinks she can do it all, but it’s clear the young woman needs help with the apple harvest this year. The local bakers have an idea on how to remedy that. Throw in a handsome, overly confident, Leon Milford and let the sparks fly.

It will be the craziest summer ever to hit Miller’s Creek, but who doesn’t like a good challenge?






MY THOUGHTS.....

Oh, that Hannah Troyer! She appears strong, determined, and a tad prideful but is this a cover? Is she really uncertain and afraid? Can she keep her family's farm and orchard flourishing after her father's death, or will they lose everything that he worked so hard for?

Cicada Season is a story of loss, struggles, and acceptance, but it's also an inspiring look at hope, faith, and love. It's the third book of the Miller's Creek series and another chance for the Amish matchmakers to work their magic. Hannah and her family need help and there are 5 Milford brothers to choose from. What could possibly go wrong? Nothing, unless you're Hannah Troyer and Leon Milford---oil mixing with water!

Author Mindy Steele grabbed my attention from the very start! I laughed, I sighed, and I kept wondering if Leon would ever soften Hannah's heart. If you enjoy fun, romance, and endearing Amish fiction, grab a copy of Cicada Season. Better yet, treat yourself to the entire Miller's Creek series!

I received a digital copy of this book from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 






ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 Raised in Kentucky timber country, Steele writes Amish Romance peppered in humor, using her rural surroundings as her muse. She is a best-selling author and the winner of the 2022 FHLCW Reader's Choice award for sweet romance. Steele creates realistic characters for her readers and believes in engaging all the senses to make you laugh, cry, hold your breath, and root for the happy ever-after ending. Readers can find themselves, somewhere within her pages.

Learn more about Mindy by visiting her Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram


MILLER'S CREEK SERIES

Cicada Season

Thursday, September 22, 2022

Worthy of Legend (The Secrets of the Isles, #3) by Roseanna M. White

Worthy of Legend (The Secrets of the Isles, #3)
ABOUT THE BOOK

After a summer of successful pirate-treasure hunting, Lady Emily Scofield and her friends must hide the unprecedented discoveries they've made, thanks to the betrayal of her own family. Horrified by her brother, who stops at nothing to prove himself to their greedy father, Emily is forced to take a stand against her family--even when it means being cut off entirely.

Bram Sinclair, Earl of Telford, is fascinated with tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table--an interest he's kept mostly hidden for the last decade. But when a diary is unearthed on the islands that could lead to a secret artifact, Bram is the only one able to piece the legends together.

As Bram and Emily seek out the whereabouts of the hidden artifact, they must dodge her family and a team of archeologists. In a race against time, it is up to them to decide what makes a hero worthy of legend. Is it fighting valiantly to claim the treasure . . . or sacrificing everything in the name of selfless love?


MY THOUGHTS.....



Pirates, the legend of King Arthur, and hidden treasure! A young woman who's never felt loved or appreciated and the brave hero who's determined to prove that she's worthy of both! Swoon-worthy chemistry that had me rooting for a 'happily ever after.' All of this can be found in Worthy of Legend and it's a fantastic conclusion to The Secrets of the Isles series. Author Roseanna M. White absolutely surpassed my expectations in this story that offers adventure, history, inspiration, and romance. She also shares a reunion with the two couples from the first two books but, best of all, she introduces super-couple Bram and Emily! Bram, who's embarrassed about his love and fascination with the King Arthur legend, and sweet and forgiving Emily. She may be unworthy in her father and brother's eyes, but she truly displays the meaning of mercy and sacrificial love.

If you love Downton Abbey, you will adore this story. If you can't get enough of wholesome, clean romance that sets your pulse racing, you'll want to read this book! And, if you appreciate motivation and inspiration, you need to grab a copy of Worthy of Legend. It is historical Christian fiction at its best!!

I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars






ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award-nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at her Website  Facebook  Twitter   Instagram



Wednesday, September 21, 2022

Covert Danger (Guardians Unleashed, #2) by Jerusha Agen

Covert Danger (Guardians Unleashed, #2)
ABOUT THE BOOK

A K-9 protection team. An assassin. Only one can survive.

An assassin is on the loose in the Twin Cities, aiming to kill FBI witnesses the Phoenix K-9 Security and Detection Agency is hired to protect. Rogue CIA agent Amalia PĂ©rez and her protection K-9 must get the edge on this deadly opponent before he kills her childhood best friend—the only man who knows her true identity.

Investigative journalist Michael Barrett can’t believe his eyes when the woman he’s spent years searching for walks back into his life. But he soon fears the woman he loved is lost forever beneath the secrets Amalia wears like armor.

As the assassin closes in, Amalia will risk anything to keep Michael safe—anything except believing in the God he trusts. When the layers of deception become as dangerous as bullets, can Amalia and Michael uncover the truth in time to stop the assassin from completing his lethal mission?




MY THOUGHTS.....



Author Jerusha Agen has created a suspense lover's dream! Covert Danger has intriguing characters, non-stop action, and questions needing to be answered, but I especially loved that there's a childhood friendship waiting to be revived! Amalia is one strong woman but she's hiding a secret that she's determined to keep hidden. What will happen when her mission to protect turns into a mission to survive? Will her work with the K-9 unit reveal her complicated past? Will her true identity be exposed?

Covert Danger is a thrilling and riveting adventure that kept me turning the pages but it's also a wonderful study of human nature. Agen allows the tender side of Amalia/Sophia to shine through her tough persona and I loved the special connection that she finds with Michael and Grace. Their relationship, and the powerful faith message that's been woven into the plot, make this a story to savor! I recommend Covert Danger to all who enjoy second-chance stories and romantic Christian suspense!

I voluntarily accepted a digital copy of this book. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 









ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jerusha Agen imagines danger around every corner, but knows God is there, too. So naturally, she writes romantic suspense infused with the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jerusha loves to hang out with her big furry dogs and little furry cats, often while reading or watching movies.  

Learn more by visiting Jerusha's  Website    Facebook   Twitter    Instagram     Pinterest




Tuesday, September 20, 2022

The Bridge Between Us (Road to Refuge #3) by Victoria Bylin: Reviewer Tour with JustRead



ABOUT THE BOOK

An Unexpected Reunion . . . A Second Chance at Love

Jesse Donovan is a changed man. Now a Christian and a successful building contractor, he’s dedicated to taking responsibility for his self-centered past. That includes welcoming the teenage boy he didn’t know he fathered. When the boy’s mother walks into Jesse’s office, their son has run away from home and is on a dangerous road, travelling with a friend who isn’t a friend at all.

Maeryn Scott once loved Jesse Donovan, only to be abandoned without even a goodbye. Her love for him died suddenly—or so she thought. Now, with her son in danger and determined to confront his father, Maeryn must face the conflicting needs of her son and her own heart. Who is Jesse now? Can she trust him? Falling in love again is the last thing Maeryn wants to do—especially with a man who will turn her world upside down.




MY THOUGHTS.....

Jesse Donovan has made some bad choices but he's now a changed man! The drugs, alcohol, and prison term that were a part of his past are now behind him, and he's found the joy that comes from loving and trusting God. He's also just learned that he has a 15-year-old son. Will his faith be strong enough to overcome this latest challenge? Can Jesse help his son Tim avoid the mistakes he once made?

The Bridge Between Us has special characters that I could easily accept as friends and realistic situations that are very common, but I was especially drawn to its strong faith message. Author Victoria Bylin reminds us that trust in God and a willingness to forgive are essential, but they don't always happen in an instant. I recommend this book to all who enjoy second chance stories and Christian romance.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Known for her realistic, likable characters and vivid writing, Victoria Bylin delights in tackling tough subjects with respect and compassion. The Two of Us was chosen as a “Target Recommends” selection, and Together With You won the Inspirational Readers Choice Award for Best Contemporary Romance. Her books, both contemporaries and western historicals,have been critically acclaimed in Publisher’s Weekly and Booklist. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky. They have two sons and are the proud grandparents of twin girls and a little boy.

Friday, September 16, 2022

To Win a Prince by Toni Shiloh

To Win a Prince
ABOUT THE BOOK

As a fashion aficionado and best friend of the queen of the African island country Oloro Ilé, Iris Blakely dreams of using her talent to start a business to help citizens in impoverished areas. But when she discovers that Ekon Diallo will be her business consultant, the battle between her desires and reality begins.

Ekon Diallo has lost everything: his princely title, his material possessions, his friends, and the respect of his countrymen. To pay for his actions against Oloro Ilé, he's forced to assist the charismatic Iris Blakely--but he can't allow his heart to distract him from regaining his status.

As Iris strives to get her business off the ground while keeping her heart intact, will her dreams of happily ever after survive the challenges she faces?




MY THOUGHTS.....





A prince, a fashion designer, and a beautiful island setting. Aren't these what fairy tales are made of? But wait, there's so much more in this wonderful contemporary romance from author Toni Shiloh! There's also an inspiring and thought-provoking message in To Win a Prince, but it never feels 'preachy' or overbearing. I loved that Shiloh pays homage to the Prodigal Son parable, and reminds us of the power of faith, redemption, and forgiveness. Former Prince Ekon learns that there's so much more than living a life of privilege and he's also given a glimpse of the true meaning of sacrifice and devotion. Iris is a compassionate young woman who sees beyond Ekon's 'royal snobbery' and offers him a chance to prove himself! It certainly helps that there's a special chemistry between them, but can this override all of their differences?

This is the second royal romance that Shiloh has set on the fictional African island, Oloro Ilé, and I loved catching up with Queen Bri and others from In Search of a Prince. To Win a Prince is a delightful book that you don't want to miss!

I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House. There was absolutely no obligation for a positive review.





My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and multi-published Christian contemporary romance author. She writes to bring God glory and to learn more about His goodness. Her novels, Grace Restored, was a 2019 Holt Medallion finalist, Risking Love a 2020 Selah Award finalist, and The Truth About Fame a 2021 Holt Medallion finalist.
A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and of the Virginia Chapter, Toni seeks to encourage authors in the writing industry. She loves connecting with readers and authors alike via social media. You can learn more about her writing at http://tonishiloh.com.
View all my reviews

Wednesday, September 14, 2022

Fallout by Carrie Stuart Parks

Fallout
ABOUT THE BOOK

Samantha Williams’s carefully crafted life is about to be demolished as thoroughly as her art classroom when a careening SUV smashes into the school.

In the dusty farming community of LaCrosse, Washington, art teacher Samantha Williams manages to save her students when an SUV crashes into the school. Her car isn’t so lucky. Oddly, her purse—containing her driver’s license, credit cards, and other identification—is missing from the wreckage, forcing her to rely on the kindness of strangers. Never one to trust easily, Samantha is thrust into a world far different from her simple life of jigsaw puzzles, children’s books, and lectures at the library.

One of the strangers who befriends her is a reporter from Spokane who is in town investigating two sets of skeletal remains that were recently discovered. When authorities discover that the driver in the school accident was shot before the crash, Samantha quickly becomes enmeshed in strange events, which turn ominous with the discovery of blackmail, murder, an abandoned town, and a secret government project.

Samantha has long tried to forget the tragedy of her past, but the links here can't be ignored. Yet these are secrets that others are determined to keep buried, and they’ll use any means necessary to stop Samantha’s search for truth.



MY THOUGHTS.....

'They'd grown rich while he'd been discarded like so much trash. Now was his time to get even.  He'd use the threat of the bomb to force the acknowledgment of their role and his own innocence. He'd personally take care of those directly responsible.'

I love mystery/suspense novels and I'm usually pretty good at figuring out the clues, but this book kept me guessing until the very end! Author Carrie Stuart Parks has crafted a fascinating tale filled with intriguing characters, page-turning action, and several red herrings. The prologue to Fallout begins with a 1988 incident that is troubling, to say the least, and then, we progress to 2015, when the mind-boggling, spine-tingling adventure begins. Art instructor Samantha Williams is nearly killed by a supposedly random accident, but it doesn't take long for the doubts to arise. Could she have been a target after all?

Parks adds intricate clues and multi-layers to this fascinating story, and she also shares a strong faith message. A light romance is included but the suspense and intrigue are the main focus. There's also a historical element that left me wanting to learn more about the Hanford Site at Hanford, Washington. Fallout is a captivating thriller, and I can't wait to read more of this author's work!

I received a digital copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.



My rating: 5 of 5 stars



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carrie Stuart Parks is a Christy finalist as well as a Carol Award-winning author. She has won numerous awards for her fine art as well. An internationally known forensic artist, she travels with her husband, Rick, across the US and Canada teaching courses in forensic art to law-enforcement professionals. The author/illustrator of numerous books on drawing and painting, Carrie continues to create dramatic watercolors from theIr studio in the mountains of Idaho.

CONNECT WITH CARRIE:  Website | Facebook | Twitter