Letters of Trust (Friendship Letters #1) by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

Friendship Letters Series — Doretta Schwartz has always enjoyed writing letters and feels her letters can be a bit of a ministry to her friends. In this series, exchanging letters that contain open and honest feeling and struggles helps Doretta and two of her best friends through the darkest challenges of their lives.
 
A Simple Letter Carries Inspiration for Healing
 
Life is good on their Pennsylvania Amish farm for newlyweds Vic and Eleanor Lapp—until the day Vic’s youngest brother drowns in their pond and Vic turns to alcohol to numb the pain. Things get so bad that Vic loses his job and their marriage is coming apart. Eleanor is desperate to help her husband and writes letters to her friend, Doretta, living in Indiana for advice. The trust Eleanor places in her friend and the gentle words she receives in return are a balm for even darker days to come in this first book of The Friendship Letters series by New York Times Bestselling Author Wanda E. Brunstetter.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Wanda E. Brunstetter is best known for her books about the Amish but this may be one of the most relevant books that she's ever written! Letters of Trust tackles the topics of depression, and alcoholism, two subjects that are often unseen in Amish fiction. Eleanor and Vic Lapp find themselves facing overwhelming struggles and Eleanor's comfort comes in the form of the correspondence that she shares with her best friend who lives in another town. She is able to share in her letters the thoughts that she can't tell others, and Doretta Schwartz responds with support, friendship, and prayers. The letters between these two friends truly become letters of trust!

Brunstetter shares a moving story that shows how alcoholism affects the whole family. She stresses the need for understanding and compassion and reminds us that faith, prayer, and forgiveness are necessary tools for everyone! Letters of Trust is a beautiful story and a must-read for all who enjoy Amish Christian fiction.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. With over 12 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  Instagram    Pinterest

View all my reviews

A Chat with Wanda E. Brunstetter!

Wanda E. Brunstetter is often referred to as 'Amish Country's Most Beloved Storyteller' and her success in the publishing world is widely known. She has more than 100 titles and many of them have been on the New York Time Best-Seller List. In fact, more than 12 million of her books have been sold!

Ms. Brunstetter often takes time for online visits with some of her Facebook fans. The most recent chat was Thursday, February 23 and she's graciously allowed me to share that chat with you.

Q: Are Amish books the main books that you publish?

Most of the books I write are Amish-themed, but I’ve also written some historical and contemporary novels. 

*Some of these titles include  Woman of Courage, The Christmas Prayer, A Heartwarming Romance Collection, and Love Finds a Way.

Q: You've written several books with others. Your daughter-in-law Jean and your granddaughter Rachelle are two of your co-authors. Is it hard to write with others, especially with family members?

I have not found it to be much of a challenge.

*You may want to check out Return to Big Valley, The Blended Quilt, and Amish Front Porch Tales.

Q: Can you speak Pennsylvania Dutch?

No, I only speak English but I do know some Pennsylvania Dutch words. I often use them in my books. The Amish speak two languages fluently – English and Pennsylvania Dutch. They also learn German which is spoken during church by the ministers who preach the sermons. I only speak English, but I do know some Pennsylvania Dutch words, which I will often use in some of my books.

Q: What would you be doing if you weren't an author and no longer writing books?

I’m not sure, but I would probably still be involved in a puppet ministry that my husband and I used to do frequently for church events.

Q: Do you plan on writing for many more years to come? 

Yes, I do plan to write for many more years. I love what I do, and I can’t imagine doing anything else, so I will write for as many years as God gives me.

Q: Your success proves that your books are read by many people. Are they just Englishers, or are there Amish men and women who read your books?

There are many Amish people (men and women) who read my books.

Along with the many fiction books, Ms. Brunstetter has published many cookbooks over the years. I personally love the variety that she offers!

Q: Do you try out a lot of recipes before you choose them?

My husband and I have eaten meals in many of our Amish friends’ homes, so we are able to try out a lot of the recipes that have been included in my cookbooks.

Q: Your cookbooks are perfect gifts for Christmas, bridal showers, and birthdays! Do you have a personal favorite yourself?

They all have great recipes, but I personally like the Amish Friends Healthy Options Cookbook, because I cook and eat healthy meals.

Q: Wanda, what things are you looking forward to most this year both personally and in your writing world?

Professionally, I’m looking forward to finishing the last book in my Friendship Letters series and beginning a brand new series. Personally, I am looking forward to the possibility of visiting my husband’s home state of Pennsylvania. 

 Q: Continuing that personal note: How did you meet your husband?

We met at a roller rink and got married a few months later. We just celebrated our 60th wedding anniversary.

Q: What do you like to do best for relaxation? 

I like to spend time on the beach whenever possible. Even if I'm not on the beach, I enjoy spending time in nature.

Q: The name listed on your books is always Wanda E. Brunstetter. What does the E. stand for?

It's my middle initial, which stands for my middle name: Eileen.

Finally, Ms. Brunstetter's newest book releases in a few days, in early March 2023. Letters of Trust is the first book in The Friendship Letters series. 

Q: There are several themes in this intriguing new book, and one of them is alcoholism. What do you hope readers take away from Letters of Trust?

I hope my readers will realize that alcoholism is a problem in all walks of life and that there are places to go for help--for the alcoholic, as well as the family of a person struggling with alcoholism.

Isn't this a beautiful cover? I will be featuring a review of this book in the next few days. 

Wanda, thank you for answering our questions. We appreciate getting to know you better! We are also praying for your daughter Lorine as she valiantly fights to recover from a major stroke. May your family find peace and comfort from the prayers of your many fans.

Still Life (Chesapeake Valor, #2) by Dani Pettrey

ABOUT THE BOOK

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 and support her best friend, who modeled for the show. 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. She immediately calls Parker for help. As Avery, Parker, and his friends in law enforcement dig into the mystery, they find themselves face-to-face with a relentless and deadly threat.

MY THOUGHTS.....

There are so many reasons to love this book. It's written by one of my favorite authors, the guy on the cover is drop-dead gorgeous, and the suspense begins immediately. But wait... there's more! Author Dani Pettrey slowly peels back the layers to show the strengths and weaknesses of her intriguing characters, while offering a chilling portrait of a twisted mind in action.

There are several strong characters in Still Life but the major romance centers around Avery Tate and Parker Mitchell. Avery carries demons from her past and Parker is there to help her heal.

'She'd told the man she loved her dirty secret and his eyes were filled with nothing but love. How was that possible?'

Still Life is another feather in Pettrey's writing cap. It's filled with danger, adventure, and suspense, but there are also powerful moments with love, hope, and a reminder of God's love and grace. I recommend it to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense and psychological thrillers.

I received a copy of this book from JustRead Tours. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Praised by New York Times best-selling author Dee Henderson as “a name to look for in romantic suspense,” Dani Pettrey has sold more than half a million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance. Her novels stand out for their “wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters” (Publishers Weekly), “gripping storyline[s],” (RT Book Reviews), and “sizzling undercurrent of romance” (USA Today). She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland, where she lives with her husband. Their two daughters, a son-in-law, and two adorable grandsons also reside in Maryland. 

For more information about her novels, visit her Website   Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

View all my reviews

Her One in a Million (Home to Harmony, #3) by Rachelle Paige Campbell

ABOUT THE BOOK

While renovating the MacKinnon mansion, Samantha Holt discovers three prized ceramics in a wall. The one in a million find could provide much needed funds for the restoration—and her family's struggling auction business. She calls a Chicago expert for a second opinion.

Zachary Reynolds arrives with his five-year-old daughter in tow, intending to leave with the vases immediately. Partly because the pottery won't reach its six-figure potential in a small-town sale, but mostly because the ceramics will secure his job in an impending merger with a larger firm—and he needs that guaranteed stability for his daughter.

Sam and Zach both need the pottery for very personal reasons, but only one can emerge victorious. As they research the history of the pieces and the mansion, however, the best choice isn’t clear-cut. Add in romantic feelings neither of them expected and things become even more complicated. With the odds stacked against them, can they both achieve the financial and personal success they crave?

MY THOUGHTS.....

Author Rachelle Paige Campbell takes us back to Harmony, Illinois, for another enjoyable visit and the chance to catch up with some of the characters from the previous Home to Harmony books. Amy Parker and her friend Samantha Holt find three vases in the walls of the MacKinnon mansion during their renovation efforts. Are these vases valued antiques? Could they solve many of the financial burdens of both Amy and Sam?

This story has everything that I love in a story: likable characters, a lovely small-town setting, and the ever-popular "friendship to more" trope. Sam bonds with the pottery expert who is helping her determine the vases' true worth and discovers a deep connection. Are Zachary Reynolds and his adorable little girl Isla the greatest treasure of all?

This is a heartwarming story of conquering fears, renewing one's faith, and learning to trust God's plans for our future! I recommend Her One in a Million to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance. Well done, Ms. Campbell!

I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. These thoughts and opinions are completely my own.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rachelle Paige Campbell writes contemporary romance filled with heart and hope. No matter the location—big city, small town, or European kingdom—her feel-good stories always end with a happily ever after. She’s grateful for the support of her family, her robot floor cleaner, and her reluctant writing partner (her dog).

Learn more by visiting her Website      Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

View all my reviews

The Cairo Curse (A Freddie and Grace Mystery #2) by Pepper D. Basham

ABOUT THE BOOK

Clue meets Indiana Jones with a fiction-loving twist only Grace Percy can provide.
 
Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley have already experienced their fair-share of suspense, but when a honeymoon trip takes a detour to the mystical land of Egypt, not even Grace with her fiction-loving mind is prepared for the dangers in store. From an assortment of untrustworthy adventure-seekers to a newly discovered tomb with a murderous secret, Frederick and Grace must lean on each other to navigate their dangerous surroundings. As the suspects mount in an antiquities’ heist of ancient proportions, will Frederick and Grace’s attempts to solve the mystery lead to another death among the sands?
 
The Cairo’s Curse is a delightful sequel to The Mistletoe Countess by Pepper Basham.

MY THOUGHTS.....

When does a honeymoon become more than a romantic getaway or vacation? When it's the honeymoon of Lord and Lady Astley and it's filled with murder, mystery, and mayhem! Grace and Frederick Percy's wild adventure takes them to Egypt and gives Grace another chance to play detective. Freddie is ready to help and there's some valuable assistance from his valet, Elliott. Intriguing Elliott, who proves to be a servant and a friend!

This second Freddie and Grace Mystery takes place in the land of pyramids, tombs, and mummies but it's so much more than a history lesson or the plot of one of Grace's beloved books. Author Pepper Basham continues the fun, humor, and swoon-worthy romance first found in The Mistletoe Princess and I can't wait to see what comes next for these wanna-be detective lovebirds! The Cairo Curse is a delightful historical romance from Barbour Publishing.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her historical romance novels, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge and The Red Ribbon, and her contemporary novels, the Mitchell’s Crossroads and Pleasant Gap series, showcase her Appalachian heritage, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.

You can connect with Pepper by visiting her website, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, or Twitter.

View all my reviews

The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin

ABOUT THE BOOK

When the Germans march into Denmark, Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt exchanges his nobility for anonymity, assuming a new identity so he can secretly row messages for the Danish Resistance across the waters to Sweden.

American physicist Dr. Else Jensen refuses to leave Copenhagen and abandon her research--her life's dream. While printing resistance newspapers, she hears stories of the movement's legendary Havmand--the merman--and wonders if the mysterious and silent shipyard worker living in the same boardinghouse has something to hide.

When the Occupation cracks down on the Danes, these two passionate people will discover if there is more power in speech . . . or in silence. Bestselling author of more than a dozen WWII novels, Sarah Sundin offers pens another story of ordinary people responding to extraordinary circumstances with faith, fortitude, and hope for a brighter future.

MY THOUGHTS.....

I'm a fan of World War II novels but this book's subject is a new area for me. The Sound of Light begins in 1940, at the beginning of the German occupation of Denmark, but the plotline quickly progresses to 1943. Author Sarah Sundin shares the absorbing tale of two brave people who join the movement to fight the Nazis. One is a Danish baron who assumes another identity and the other is an American physicist doing research in Denmark. Two unlikely comrades determined to help with the Danish resistance!

There are so many inspiring themes woven throughout this story. Bravery and courage that were the foundation of the resistance efforts, along with the many sacrifices that were made. A love for one's country and the desire to protect its freedom. And then there's the romance! I enjoyed seeing how the relationship between Henrik/Hemming and Else progressed from respect to friendship to something much deeper.

War is always ugly but Sundin buffers her story by showing the power of hope, faith, and love! I recommend The Sound of Light to all who enjoy historical romantic fiction.

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


My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Sundin enjoys writing about the drama and romance of the World War II era. She is the bestselling author of The Land Beneath Us (February 2020), The Sky Above Us (2019) and The Sea Before Us (2018), as well as the Waves of Freedom, Wings of the Nightingale series, and Wings of Glory series. Her novel The Sea Before Us received the 2019 Reader's Choice Award from Faith, Hope, and Love, Through Waters Deep and When Tides Turn were named to Booklist's "101 Best Romance Novels of the Last 10 Years," and Through Waters Deep won the 2016 INSPY Award and was a Carol Award finalist.

A mother of three, Sundin lives in northern California and teaches Sunday school and women's Bible studies. She enjoys speaking to community, church, and writers' groups. Sarah serves as the Program Director for West Coast Christian Writers Conference. 

Learn more about Sarah and her books by visiting her website.

Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     Pinterest

View all my reviews

Detecting Secrets (Deputies of Anderson County, #3) by Sami A. Abrams

ABOUT THE BOOK

Tracking the scents of the missing

might be the only way to save them.  

Partnered with her air-scent dog and Sheriff Dennis Monroe, marriage and family therapist Charlotte Bradley is desperate to put an end to a black-market baby smuggling ring in Anderson County. Who is kidnapping the pregnant girls she counsels and taking their babies? As Charlotte searches for answers, she and Dennis must dodge gunfire and deadly attacks. But the sinister agenda they uncover just might include her.

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Warning! Don't start reading this book if you're pressed for time because you won't be able to put it down!! Author Sami A. Abrams delivers a thrilling, fast-paced story of murder, illegal adoptions, and a black-market baby smuggling ring that targets young teenage mothers. How many kidnappings will there be before this is stopped? How many babies will be taken from their mothers?

There are several unique characters in Detecting Secrets. I loved seeing the special bond between Deputy Dennis Monroe and his five-year-old daughter Amelia and enjoyed seeing the friendship that develops between Dennis and family therapist Charlotte Bradley. Could this be a "friendship to more" waiting to happen?

Abrams kept me turning the pages to try to find answers, and I was constantly intrigued by the twists and turns. I also appreciated the inspiring faith message that she wove into the plot. Detecting Secrets is romantic Christian suspense at its best!

I received a copy 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

Sami Abrams grew up hating to read. It wasn’t until her 30’s that she found authors that captured her attention. Now, most evenings you can find her engrossed in a Romantic Suspense. In her opinion, a crime and a little romance is the recipe for a great story.

She lives in Northern California, but she will always be a Kansas girl at heart. She has a love of sports, family, and travel. However, a cabin at Lake Tahoe writing her next story is definitely at the top of her list.

Sami's debut novel, Buried Cold Case Secrets, released in December 2021. She has since written Impending Strike, book 2 of the Elite Guardians Collection, and Twin Murder Mix-Up, the second book of the Deputies of Anderson County series.

If you love romantic suspense, go to Sami's website and sign up for her newsletter to get the inside scoop at samiaabrams.com. 

Learn more at Sami's       Website    Facebook     Twitter     Instagram   

Deputies of Anderson County

Book 1: Buried Cold Case Secrets
Book 2: Twin Murder Mix-Up
Book 3: Detecting Secrets

View all my reviews

Winning His Trust by Toni Shiloh

ABOUT THE BOOK

To build a future together

They must both let go of the past…

Returning home after a bad breakup, Jordan Wood is eager to prove she can run her family’s store. Setting up a partnership with Declan Porter’s struggling adventure business might do the trick. But the handsome single dad is set in his ways—in business and in love. Can winning his—and his son’s—heart help them all heal?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Author Toni Shiloh takes us back to Willow Springs for another heartwarming story involving the Wood family and this time, the main focus is on Jordan Wood and her former classmate Declan Porter. She's back home to help in the family store and hopefully increase business with her newly acquired marketing skills, and he's struggling to get his own business off the ground. Declan could use some of Jordan's knowledge but is he willing to accept her help?

There are so many powerful emotions that surface during this story. Both Jordan and Declan have experienced broken hearts, damaged trust, and feelings of being unworthy of love. Even friendship seems unlikely but is it possible that God's Plan is for them to help each other heal? Will their mutual concern for Declan's adorable little boy be their common ground?

Shiloh has written a lovely story of family, friendship, and faith. I recommend Winning His Trust to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

I received a complimentary copy from the author but there was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 4 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.

Follow Toni on Facebook Twitter     Pinterest Instagram Goodreads BookBub     Newsletter  

View all my reviews

Alaskan Avalanche Escape (K-9 Search and Rescue, #9) by Darlene L. Turner

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sabotage in the mountains…

Can this K-9 sniff out the truth?

After surviving a sudden avalanche, mountain survival expert Jayla Hoyt and her search-and-rescue K-9 discover that it was no accident—someone deliberately triggered the mountain explosion. To uncover the culprit, she’ll have to partner with Alaska park ranger Bryson Clarke, a man she doesn’t trust. But when the investigators become targets, can they capture the criminal mastermind…before they’re buried alive?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

K-9 Search and Rescue

Book 1: Desert Rescue by Lisa Phillips
Book 2: Trailing a Killer by Carol J. Post
Book 3: Mountain Survival by Christy Barritt
Book 4: Search and Defend by Heather Woodhaven
Book 5: Following the Trail by Lynette Eason
Book 6: Dangerous Mountain Rescue by Christy Barritt
Book 7: Wilderness Hunt by Lisa Phillips
Book 8: Alaskan Mountain Search by Sarah Varland
Book 9: Alaskan Avalanche Escape by Darlene L. Turner

MY THOUGHTS.....

This book begins with a terrifying scene and the action never lets up! I was immediately caught up in the activities of a K-9 search and rescue team's efforts to determine why so many avalanches are occurring along a mountain pass that stretches from the Yukon into Alaska. Is it the work of an overactive Mother Nature, or could there be evil behind these catastrophes?

I love this author's great storytelling abilities and this book is the perfect example. Alaskan Avalanche Escape is an exciting adventure that kept me turning the pages to find the answers! There are twists, turns, and many surprises but I especially enjoyed the intriguing characters. Darlene L. Turner slowly peels back the layers to display their strengths and weaknesses. Jayla Hoyt is a mountain survival expert who has painful secrets from her past and major trust issues with Alaskan Park Ranger Bryson Clarke, but there's no doubt of her love and devotion for her K-9 partner, Hercules! Can Jayla and Bryson overcome their differences? Will the threats on their lives help them discover the power of faith and trust?

This is a captivating story. I recommend Alaskan Avalanche Escape 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, and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darlene L. Turner’s love of suspense began when she read her first Nancy Drew book. She’s turned that passion into her writing and believes readers will be captured by her plots, inspired by her strong characters, and moved by her inspirational message. 

Darlene won the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense twice and an ACFW Genesis award. She’s represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency. Her debut book, Border Breach, released in April, 2020 with Love Inspired Suspense. She has two books releasing in 2021: Abducted in Alaska (March) and Lethal Cover-Up (August).

Darlene met her husband Jeff at the turtle races in Ontario, Canada. She loves flavored coffee and plaid shirts. You can connect with Darlene at www.darlenelturner.com where there’s suspense beyond borders. 

Darlene’s social media:

Facebook: https://bit.ly/2Woy8dK

Twitter: https://bit.ly/2Qso27O

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/2UhbelT

BookBub: https://bit.ly/2QrdkhP

Pinterest: https://bit.ly/2x2Batz

Instagram: darlenel.turner

  

View all my reviews

Counterfeit Hope (Hidden Hearts of the Gilded Age, #2) by Crystal Caudill

ABOUT THE BOOK

Trapped by their pasts, is there hope for a future?

When Secret Service operative Andrew Darlington is brought in to support a US Marshal case involving counterfeiters in rural Indiana, he thinks it's simply the next rung on his climb to the top of his career. But liars can only climb so high--and Andrew is keeping a dangerous secret he doesn't ever want to get out. When he clashes with the criminal family that took over the town of Landkreis and killed the Marshal he was sent to assist, his past life is in danger of being exposed.

Widow Lightning Lu Thorne has only one goal: escape the clutches of the Thorne family with her son. Her decision to be an informant and testify against the Thornes looked like the perfect answer. Until the Marshal ended up dead. Now the tether keeping her tied to her felonious family is tightening, and a forced marriage to someone else in the Thornes' clutches threatens to kill any hope of escape.

Andrew and Lu find themselves on the same team--unwillingly. They each believe the other to be the enemy to their future plans. And even if they could learn to work together, the secrets they hold could shatter all hopes and dreams. Despite the encouragement of the local preacher, they're not even sure God can be trusted--much less other humans. Can either of them escape their past--and the family that is willing to kill their own when they smell betrayal?

On the heels of her smashing debut, this second entry in Crystal Caudill's historical series maintains the excitement that readers of Michelle Griep, Liz Tolsma, and Elizabeth Camden will love.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Counterfeit Hope has so many elements that I love, including intriguing characters, a historical setting, and an unexpected romance! I was immediately drawn into Lu Thorne's story, but it wasn't always easy to read. Tragic circumstances forced her into a life of crime, but she now had one goal: to escape to a better life for her young son and herself. Would a marriage of convenience to a Secret Service operative be the first step to achieving this? Is Andrew Darlington's secret past something that she can use to her advantage?

Author Crystal Caudill takes us back to America's Gilded Age and the Secret Service's continued efforts to find the counterfeit rings that were rampant in the 1880s. She paints a vivid picture of good, evil, and the power of sin but also shows that hope and redemption are available to all. Sadly, there are those who refuse to seek forgiveness! I was totally engrossed with this thought-provoking story and I recommend Counterfeit Hope to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

I received a copy from the author and Kregel Publications. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Crystal Caudill is the author of "dangerously good historical romance," with her work garnering awards from Romance Writers of America and ACFW.

She is a stay-at-home mom and caregiver, and when she isn’t writing, Caudill can be found playing board games with her family, drinking hot tea, or reading other great books at her home outside Cincinnati, Ohio.

Learn more at crystalcaudill.com. You can also find her on Facebook     Twitter     Instagram.

View all my reviews

Copper Waters by Marlene M. Bell: Review with iRead Book Tours

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

  

Copper Waters - A New Zealand Mystery (Annalisse Series Book 4) by Marlene M. Bell

Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 340 pages 
Genre: Mystery-Suspense
Publisher:  Ewephoric Publishing
Release date:   October, 2022
Content Rating:  G. Book is for general audiences. 

Book Description:

Annalisse Drury and Alec Zavos find themselves on opposing sides when an ex-lover from Alec’s past introduces him to his alleged son. With Alec distracted and their future engagement in limbo, Annalisse accepts a key to her dream cottage—situated on a picturesque sheep station on South Island, New Zealand—only this time, she travels alone.

But not long after her arrival she’s confronted by two peculiar deaths—either accidental, or the deliberate acts of a psychopath.

Local investigators are closing the cases too quickly and want Annalisse to exit the country before she reveals the town’s darkest secrets.

Will she return to Alec, or sacrifice their future together to expose it all?

BUY THE BOOK:
Amazon