The Woman from Lydia (The Emissaries #1) by Angela Elwell Hunt

ABOUT THE BOOK

Widowed Euodia, known to her neighbors as "the Lydian woman," seeks to make a fresh start by moving to the foreign city of Philippi. She finds new purpose after meeting Paulos, apostle to the Gentiles, who opens her eyes to helping those in need, particularly women and those who have been enslaved.

Retired Roman soldier Hector has settled in Philippi with dreams of a future filled with wealth and status, pooling his army earnings with Lucius, his fellow comrade in arms turned business partner. His hopes are dashed, however, when Paulos robs their youngest slave of her lucrative ability to foretell the future, rendering her worthless to Hector's ambition.

When Euodia becomes aware that Sabina is being mistreated, she buys Sabina from Lucius, intending to set the girl free. But when Hector claims the sale was not legitimate, he takes Sabina back and swears he will find someone to restore her valuable "gift" . . . even if he must travel to the ends of the earth to do so. Following close behind him, Euodia and her servants set out to rescue Sabina, not for gain, but to rescue and set her free forever.

In her stirring series starter, New York Times bestselling author Angela Hunt dives into the perilous days of the early church as Christians struggle to remain true to their faith amid the highest of risks in a hostile pagan culture.

MY THOUGHTS.....

I love biblical fiction and I'm a fan of Angela Hunt, so I was especially anxious to read this book. The Woman from Lydia features the apostle Paul, his traveling companion Silas, and Euodia, who is mentioned in Acts 16 as Lydia, a seller of purple cloth. Much of the story is told from Euodia's point of view as she valiantly tries to free a girl from slavery after the apostle Paul casts a demon from her. Euodia's determined efforts to free Sabina from a retired Roman soldier's possession are equally matched by his intentions to use Sabina's gift of divination for his own personal gain! Will Euodia succeed in thwarting Hector's intentions?

Hunt possesses a wonderful talent for weaving facts with fiction and this book is a perfect example. I enjoyed the relationship that evolves between Euodia and her new husband Ariston, along with those that she shares with Phebe and Syntyche. I gained a new perspective on Paul's missionary journeys, and relished the explanation of slavery versus freedom, in both physical and spiritual terms. I feel that an author of Biblical fiction has succeeded when I find myself reading my Bible to verify a fact or searching a Bible commentary to learn more about a scene. I did both of these while reading this book!

This is a story that will inspire Christian readers and challenge non-believers, and I'm thrilled to have it as my church Bible group begins its study of The Book of Acts. I highly recommend The Woman from Lydia and I look forward to the next book in The Emissaries series!

I was provided an ARC courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews & Reviews and a complimentary copy from Bethany House. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who expect the unexpected in novels. With over five million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 150 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to non-fiction books, to novels.

Learn more by visiting her   Website     Facebook     Instagram

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Collection Spotlight: Sisters by the Sea by Wanda E. Brunstetter, Jean Brunstetter, Rachelle Brunstetter, & Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach

This isn't the first time that Wanda E. Brunstetter has written a book with other family members, but it's the first time that one of the authors is her daughter. Yes, Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach shares a short story in this new Amish book, Sisters by the Sea, along with her mother Wanda, her sister-in-law Jean, and her niece Richelle. 

In a recent chat, Wanda Brunstetter was asked "if she collaborated and discussed ideas with the other authors, or did you each simply come up with your own story for the collection?"

This was her reply. "We did collaborate on ideas, although we each came up with our own storylines. We shared the character sketches we had created for our characters since the sisters were mentioned throughout each of our stories. We also shared the summary for each of our novellas and talked about how we would blend each story into the next.

In my earlier review of this book, I remarked that "I found it amazing that each author was able to write a tale that blended so well with the others," You can read my entire review of Sisters by the Sea HERE but I also wanted to shine a spotlight on each of the individual stories. 

The Seashell Cake is the first story and it's written by Wanda E. Brunstetter.  

Jean Brunstetter's contribution is The Beach Ball.

The third story is Fragments of a Sand Dollar by Richelle Brunstetter.

A Sarasota Summer completes the collection and it's written by Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach.

If you're looking for captivating Amish fiction, grab a copy of Sisters by the Sea!

Sisters by the Sea by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

Four Amish Sisters Develop New Beginnings in Sarasota, Florida
 
Journey with the bestselling Brunstetter authors to the unique tropical Amish community in Sarasota, Florida, along with four young sisters originally from Indiana.
 
The Seashell Cake by Wanda E. Brunstetter
Leora Lambright is the first to leave home, seeking a warmer climate for health reasons. While on a winter holiday, roofer John Miller meets Leora in the bakery where she is enjoying expressing herself through cake decorating. They are instantly attracted to each other and spend several days bike riding, fishing, playing shuffleboard, and trying local restaurants. But when Leora makes it clear she’ll never again live up north, without explaining why. Has the romance ended before it could even blossom?
 
The Beach Ball by Jean Brunstetter
Violet, the youngest of the four Lambright sisters, has always been a bit wild. She moves to Florida to live with her sister as she seeks her independence and considers leaving the Amish way of life. She works as a waitress and drives her own car. Her beauty and free spirit attract a lot of male attention like Levi, who is also Amish. When she first meets Dan Hunter, it is his little red sports car that she admires first, but while dating Dan, Levi keeps trying to make Violet commit to him. Can she settle on who should have her heart and how to live out her faith?
 
Fragments of a Sand Dollar by Richelle Brunstetter
Francine Lambright is heartbroken that her longtime boyfriend, Matthew, is thinking of leaving the Amish faith, and they have broken up. She is ready to join the church, but her sister invites her to Florida for an extended visit before taking the pledge of faith. While shell hunting at Lido Beach, Francine meets Lucas Hayes, and they soon begin seeing each other, despite him being an Englisher. When Matthew shows up in Pinecraft unexpectedly, how will Francine’s heart respond? 
 
A Sarasota Sunset by Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach
Alana Lambright has suffered a series of unfortunate accidents and emotional traumas that have left her plagued by anxiety. She turns to art for peace and healing. While on a visit to her sister in Florida, she takes up seashell artwork and accepts a job in a gift shop. James Miller, a recent college graduate, meets Alana, and, due to his own past, he is initially turned off by the fact that she is Amish. Still he invites Alana on adventurous outings. Alana tries to tamp her anxiety to try the activities but fails and feels like it pushes James away. Can they each deal with the heaviness in their pasts to embrace a future together?
 

MY THOUGHTS.....

Intriguing characters, an unusual setting, and real-life issues make this more than a typical Amish fiction book. Wanda Brunstetter and three members of her own family join together to write about four sisters who decide to seek a new life in Florida. None of the sisters go together, and they all have different reasons for leaving Indiana, but their goals are the same. They're looking for new purposes and new lives in the Pinecraft Amish community of Sarasota.

Wanda E. Brunstetter has become one of my favorite authors and I've also read stories written by her daughter-law Jean and her granddaughter Richelle, but this book introduces the writing talents of Brunstetter's daughter, Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach. I found it amazing that each author was able to write a tale that blended so well with the others, and I appreciated that they each mentioned all of the Lambright in their individual stories. There are serious issues tackled that aren't always found in Amish fiction, such as physical illness, anxiety, romantic break-ups, and leaving the Amish faith, but hope, faith, and the support of family are evident throughout.

Sisters by the Sea is a well-written collection that will keep you engaged in the lives of Leora, Violet, Francine, and Alana Lambright. I recommend it to all who enjoy Amish fiction and Christian romance, and I look forward to more joint efforts by these authors. 

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

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 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  Pinterest

Jean Brunstetter became fascinated with the Amish when she first went to Pennsylvania to visit her father-in-law’s family. Since that time, Jean has become friends with several Amish families and enjoys writing about their way of life. She also likes to put some of the simple practices followed by the Amish into her daily routine. Jean lives in Washington State with her husband, Richard Jr. and their three children, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish communities in several states. In addition to writing, Jean enjoys boating, gardening, and spending time on the beach. 

Visit Jean's website at www.jeanbrunstetter.com.

Richelle Brunstetter lives in the Pacific Northwest and developed a desire to write when she took creative writing in high school. After enrolling in college classes, her overall experience enticed her to become a writer, and she wants to implement what she’s learned into her stories. Just starting her writing career, her first published story appears in The Beloved Christmas Quilt beside her grandmother, Wanda E. Brunstetter, and her mother, Jean. Richelle enjoys traveling to different places, her favorite being Kauai, Hawaii.

Check out Richelle's Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/richellelbrunstetter

Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach became interested in the Plain people’s culture as a young child, after visiting the Lancaster Amish with her parents. Lorine is a music teacher and lives in Southwest Idaho with her husband, Bil. They have three daughters and two grandchildren. Lorine enjoys playing the piano, singing, writing, gardening, cooking, and traveling.

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Little Mole Gives Thanks (Little Mole, 4) by Glenys Nellist

ABOUT THE BOOK

Pinecone pie, acorn stew, mushroom soup! Little Mole's big table is all set for his fancy fall feast, and he can't wait to welcome three very important guests. But when each of these guests delivers the news that they won't be able to attend, Little Mole doesn't know what to do. Who will fill his table? Disappointment turns into gratitude as his community shows Little Mole what true friendship looks like, just in time for the big feast he and Mama worked so hard to prepare. In this fourth installment in the Little Mole series, author Glenys Nellist and illustrator Sally Garland team up again to bring a welcoming and inclusive tale. Children will relate to Little Mole's feelings of disappointment and be inspired to turn to their friends for comfort when things don't go the way they planned.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Everyone's favorite woodland friend is back for his fourth adventure, and he's about to learn an important lesson about friendship and thankfulness. Little Mole is excited to prepare a special Autumn feast for three important guests, but his excitement turns to disappointment when he learns that they can't come. It's the kindness of his three friends that helps him realize nothing could be better than a celebration with his friends!

Glenys Nellist's delightful text and the colorful illustrations by Sally Garland truly capture the joy and beauty that's present during Fall and Thanksgiving! I also love that there's a two-page guide at the end with suggestions for preparing a Fall Feast. What fun for little ones!

Little Mole Gives Thanks would be a great addition to a church or school library and it's the perfect book to share with your children and grandchildren. Toddlers will enjoy listening to it being read, and school-age children will love reading it on their own. 

I received a copy from the author and publisher, and I also purchased another copy. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I'm an author of over twenty books for children, including the best-selling Twas The Evening of Christmas, The Wonder That is You, and two popular series: Love Letters from God and Snuggle Time. I've also written Little Mole Finds Hope and Little Mole's Christmas Gift. Here's my little story...

Although I live in Michigan, USA, I was born and raised in a little village in northern England. Four long decades later, I would find myself living across the pond, married to a wonderful man, mum to four adult children and three daughters-in-law, and grandma to three bouncing boys and one gorgeous girl. And as if all that wasn’t blessing enough, I somehow became an author, despite giving up on my first book halfway through.

And if you would have told me then, that this book would one day become a series, that I would begin a second series, and a third… I never would have believed you. The only possible explanation is that our great God is able to do immeasurably more than all I could ever ask or possibly imagine.

Learn more at my Website    Facebook    Twitter     Instagram    Pinterest

Please check out my thoughts about the other Little Mole books!

Little Mole Finds Hope

Little Mole's Christmas Gift

Little Mole Goes to School

View all my reviews

Against the Wind (Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing #2) by Amanda Cabot

ABOUT THE BOOK

Doctor-in-training Louisa Vaughn has no intention of remaining in Sweetwater Crossing. She's just there for a few days to help a friend. But she can't abandon the injured man she finds at the side of the road. Until his broken leg heals, she'll serve as the town's doctor and midwife. She may not be fully qualified yet, but surely she's better than nothing.

Josh Porter's plans to win his grandfather's challenge and fulfill his father's final wish to gain full control of the family business hit a roadblock when he breaks his leg. But his enforced stay in Sweetwater Crossing gives him new ideas about the expansion of the company into new territory--ideas Louisa could help turn into reality.

If only the town were more accepting of Louisa's talents! Someone is determined to convince her to abandon her dream of healing others. Can Josh help her uncover the person behind the threats before it's too late? And is there any future for them together when neither of them plans to stay?

MY THOUGHTS.....

Amanda Cabot takes us back to Sweetwater Crossing and I couldn't be happier. Against the Wind is the second book in the Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing series and it's an engaging story with wonderful characters, sweet romance, heart-rending emotions, and enough intrigue to keep me guessing. Women doctors were frowned upon in 1883 and there's someone who wants Louisa Vaughan to give up her desire to help and heal. Just how far will that person go to stop her from becoming a doctor?

I had some reservations about Louisa in the first book of this series, but I really liked her in this book. She's caring and determined, and she's also special enough to grab the attention of a very special Josh Porter.

'Before he could tell Louisa what was in his heart, he needed to make sense of everything that was in both his heart and his mind. And that, Josh knew, would not be easy.'

This is an inspirational story of hope, redemption, and second chances and I highly recommend Against the Wind to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

With both parents avid readers, it's no surprise that Amanda Cabot learned to read at an early age. From there it was only a small step to deciding to become a writer. Of course, deciding and becoming are two different things, as she soon discovered. Fortunately for the world, her first attempts at fiction were not published, but she did meet her goal of selling a novel by her thirtieth birthday. Since then she’s sold more than thirty-five novels. When she’s not writing, Amanda enjoys sewing, cooking and – of course – reading.

Website     Facebook     Twitter     Blog

Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing

After the Shadows

Against the Wind

View all my reviews

Abducted at Christmas by Rhonda Starnes

ABOUT THE BOOK

Surviving the holidays…

with a kidnapper closing in.

Hadley Logan’s Christmas break turns into a holiday nightmare when an intruder breaks into her home and then bullets start flying. Only the quick actions of security specialist Ryan Vincent save her. Now she must rely on him to guard her and her five-year-old daughter as they go on the run. And when attempted murder turns to kidnapping, can Ryan keep this family together for Christmas?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Anticipation...shock...dismay...fear. These emotions are evident in the first few pages of this book, and they don't stop there, as expectations of a peaceful and joyful Christmas turn into a nightmare of threats, attacks, and the eventual kidnapping of Hadley Logan's five-year-old daughter. 

Author Rhonda Starnes sends readers on a roller-coaster ride of twists, turns, and extreme danger, and I felt like I was on the run with Hadley, her little girl Sophia, and the man who is unexpectedly drawn into their trauma. Intense action and non-ending suspense add to the excitement of this book, but the characters make it especially appealing! Hadley and Ryan Vincent have both endured six years of hurt and pain and even though their personal relationships with God have suffered, their core values have remained the same. How thrilling it was to witness their journey to renewed hope, faith, and trust! Abducted at Christmas is a great read for anyone who enjoys thrilling suspense, sweet romance, and life-changing inspiration.

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

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. Rocky Mountain Revenge was her debut novel. 


Learn more at Rhonda's Website    Facebook     Twitter  Instagram

OTHER BOOKS BY RHONDA STARNES

Rocky Mountain Revenge

Perilous Mountain Escape

Tracked Through the Mountains

Abducted at Christmas

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Killer Christmas Evidence (Deputies of Anderson County, 4) by Sami A. Abrams

ABOUT THE BOOK

The search for a criminal becomes a fight for survival.

The moment detective Cassidy Bowman links a chain of suspicious deaths to a serial killer, she becomes the deadly assassin’s number one target. But a blow to the head robs her of her memory and she can’t put the pieces of the case back together alone. Can she convince detective Kyle Howard to help her catch the culprit by proving her theory…before the killer succeeds in taking Cassidy’s life?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

MY THOUGHTS.....

The Anderson County Sheriff's Department is back in action, and this may be their most explosive case yet! Mysterious deaths appear to be linked to a serial killer and Detective Cassidy Bowman's memory loss makes her a target also. Will the officer assigned to the case succeed in setting aside his personal feelings to offer her the best protection possible?

Killer Christmas Evidence is an emotionally charged story that's filled with pain, loss, and an overpowering need for resolution and peace. Multiple twists and turns, intense suspense, and the personal relationship between Cassidy and Kyle kept me fully engaged and turning the pages! Sami A. Abrams is a master at writing romantic suspense novels and this series just keeps getting better!

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sami  A. 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 novel. In her opinion, 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, was released on December 28, 2021. 

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

Buried Cold Case Secrets

Twin Murder Mix-Up

Detecting Secrets

Killer Christmas Evidence

View all my reviews

Better Watch Out (A Defensemen Romantic Holiday Adventure) by Natalie Walters

ABOUT THE BOOK

An accidental meet-cute, a case of mistaken identity, and a bucket-list of Christmas activities befitting a Hallmark movie make this holiday romantic adventure the perfect Christmas read.

Leave the candy canes, take the pepper spray!

Nothing screams Christmas like a week spent ice skating, visiting Santa, and sharing a kiss or two under the mistletoe. Frannie Frost has crafted the perfect bucket list of romantic activities to surprise her boyfriend in the most magical place at Christmas time—New York City. When he unexpectedly becomes her ex, her plans are derailed leaving her with a choice. Wallow in self-pity at Christmas time or take matters into her own hands.

Former NHL defenseman turned personal protection agent, Andrew Bishop, loves his job—when things go as planned—but Frannie Frost is definitely not part of the plan. Still, when her brother, the man who saved Andrew’s life last year, asks him to deliver his sister safely to the airport, he can’t say no.

The only problem? Frannie isn’t leaving. She’s determined to make the most of her trip by checking off a bucket list of cliché Christmas actives that would make even Santa’s elves jealous. Andrew’s content to let her go until he learns that Frannie’s been mistaken for his client and thrust into the midst of danger.

Better Watch Out is a sweet romantic holiday adventure that gives you all of laughs of a rom-com while adding a touch of suspense. Tropes you’re sure to love include the new girl in the city vibe, stranded at Christmas, under the mistletoe, forced proximity, and a touch of enemies to lovers. Enjoy this romantic adventure that’s sure to make your holidays merry and bright.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Mistaken identity, a Christmas engagement that never happens, and an unexpected need for protection...what else could go wrong for Frannie Frost? Natalie Walters shares a story that features her trademark suspense but also offers a large dose of fun and romance, Walters style! Frannie ends up in New York City, minus her ex-boyfriend, but she still plans to work on her Christmas in New York bucket list. I've never been to New York during any season, but I enjoyed seeing it through Frannie's eyes, and I especially loved that there's hunky bodyguard Andrew Bishop to experience it with her!

Better Watch Out has great characters, lots of exciting action, and a sweet but swoony romance that's flavored with holiday magic. I have several movies that I watch every Christmas and I now have this heartwarming romantic comedy to add to my favorite holiday reads!

I received a digital 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

My world revolves around GIJOE and our three adult (or almost adult) children who keep my life anything but predictable. Our boots hit the ground wherever the Army sends us but home is when we’re all together no matter the zip
code. My passion is writing stories where adventure meets love and share my belief that life rooted in purpose is a story worth telling.

Get to know Natalie better at her Website     
Facebook     Twitter     Instagram     Pinterest

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Second Chance Inn by Marlayne Giron

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

“Giron crafts characters with compassion, yet with insecurities that make them relatable.”
Mary Jackson ~ The Mary Reader

Rachel Winston is suddenly and tragically widowed in her early 30s. She and her adopted, teenaged daughter, Karen, are forced to leave everything behind in Southern California. She purchases an Amish farmhouse in Lancaster County, PA to open an Amish-style Bed & Breakfast Inn. The farmhouse she purchases was put on the market by a young Amish widower, Samuel Miller, who recently lost his wife and five children in a buggy accident. He has moved into the Dawdi house to maintain the farm and Rachel happily cooks, cleans, and does his laundry in exchange for his help. Thrown together by tragic loss, their mutual suffering draws them together against the rules of his community. Solace and friendship soon turn into something deeper, putting him at great risk for shunning. Rachel struggles to adapt while her daughter finds it easier to fit in to the Amish lifestyle. Will Rachel succeed in becoming sufficiently Amish so she can be with Samuel, or will their blossoming relationship doom them both as outcasts?

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is a book that will appeal to so many readers! The setting is Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, so there are Amish characters but it's also contemporary women's fiction. Second Chance Inn is a gripping tale of loss and grief, learning to let go, and trying to move on; and I experienced all of the feels! Yes, there's sadness but it's buffered with hope and a renewal of faith. Throw in the efforts to start a successful B&B and the desire to create a magical Christmas, and the result is a story that kept me turning the pages!

I know that Marlayne Giron is a talented author, but this book reveals another facet of her writing abilities. It is a captivating story of second chances, and I would love to learn more about Rachel, her daughter Karen, and a very remarkable Samuel Miller!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Marlayne Giron is a wife and mother living in Orange County, California. She currently works full time and enjoys cooking for her family every night, scrapbooking, making high teas, and entertaining. She is also the author of Make a Wish, In Plain Sight, and The Victor Companion Lesson Plan.

I also have a blog about my experience with breast cancer (no disturbing photos but plenty of humor). My blog is: https://mmgiron.wixsite.com/website

You can also follow Marlayne on    Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

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Shadows at Dusk (Missing in Alaska, #2) by Elizabeth Goddard

ABOUT THE BOOK

Montana Detective Trevor West is desperate to learn what happened to his sister, who went missing in Alaska over a year ago, leaving nothing but a few photographs as clues to her whereabouts. At the advice of Police Chief Autumn Long, Trevor enlists the help of an experienced bush pilot. If Carrie James can't help him find the places in the photographs, no one can.

But Carrie has her own agenda. Grieving the death of her closest friend and the only person she could trust, Carrie will help Trevor find his sister on one condition--that he help her track down her friend's killer.

As the two close in on the answers they crave, they'll face dangers and connections they could not have imagined. They'll have to learn to trust one another--and face the dark secrets of the past--if they are ever to discover the truth and bring a killer to justice.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Are you looking for a book that you won't soon forget? Try reading Elizabeth Goddards' new book, Shadows at Dusk! It's an intriguing tale of murder, deceit, and revenge that's set in Alaska, where beauty exists but danger is ever present. Bush pilot Carrie James is convinced that her best friend has been murdered and Detective Trevor West is trying to find his sister. Is it possible that there's a connection between his missing sister and Carrie's friend? Will their search for answers lead them to healing and acceptance?

This author's name is synonymous with romantic suspense, but Goddard has truly outdone herself this time. I was totally captivated, from the intense prologue to the very satisfying ending! I loved the characters, the setting, the riveting twists and turns, and the romantic chemistry shared by Carrie and Trevor. I also appreciated the subtle faith message woven into the plot. I highly recommend Shadows at Dusk to all who enjoy romantic Christian fiction and I can't wait to read the next book in the Missing in Alaska series!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Goddard is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than thirty romance novels, including the romantic mystery, The Camera Never Lies—a 2011 Carol Award winner. Four of her six Mountain Cove books have been contest finalists. Buried, Backfire and Deception are finalists in the Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery and Suspense, and Submerged is a Carol Award finalist. A 7th-generation Texan, Elizabeth graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and worked in high-level software sales for several years before retiring to homeschool her children and fulfill her dreams of becoming an author.

Learn more by visiting her Website    

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Lost and Found by Suzanne Woods Fisher

ABOUT THE BOOK

Trudy Yoder shares a passion for birding with Micah Weaver--and she has an even greater passion for Micah. Their friendship is finally turning romantic when Micah abruptly grows cold. Worse still, he wants to leave Stoney Ridge.

Micah Weaver thought he was over Trudy's older sister. A year and a half ago, Shelley had broken his heart when she ran away from Stoney Ridge to pursue a singing career in Nashville. Then, out of the blue, she's started to leave distressing phone messages for him.

When the bishop asks for volunteers to scout out a possible church relocation in Tennessee, Micah is the first to raise his hand. Despite scant details, he's confident he can find Shelley. After all, his reputation as a field guide is based on finding birds that don't want to be found.

What Micah doesn't know is that what you're looking for isn't always what you find.

MY THOUGHTS.....

I've learned that books by this author are so much more than just entertaining reads. There are often life truths tucked into the pages, inspiring faith threads woven into the stories, and many chances to learn. This book has all of these! Lost and Found is a thought-provoking story with intriguing characters and a well-developed plot that centers on a conflict in faith. I enjoyed the promising romance between two avid birdwatchers but much of the story focuses on an Amish family dealing with mental illness and an Amish bishop's efforts to do what is best for his people. Should the church of Stoney Ridge relocate? Will a more liberal Amish group, the Beachy Amish, succeed in dividing this Stoney Ridge community?

This compelling story by Suzanne Woods Fisher reminds us that things aren't always as they seem and secrets can be found in all groups of people. I recommend Lost and Found to all who enjoy contemporary Amish fiction.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

With over one million copies sold, Suzanne Woods Fisher is a bestselling, award winning author of over 30 books, ranging from novels to children’s books to non-fiction. She is a Christy Award finalist, a Carol and Selah award winner, and a two-time finalist for ECPA Book of the Year. She writes stories that take you to places you’ve never visited—one with characters that seem like old friends. But most of all, her books give you something to think about long after you’ve finished reading it. Suzanne lives with her very big family in northern California.

Learn more by visiting her  Website     Facebook     Twitter    Instagram     Pinterest

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Marshaling Her Heart (Wyoming Sunrise #3) by Mary Connealy

ABOUT THE BOOK

Becky Pruitt has always prided herself on knowing everything that's happening on her successful ranch, which makes her foreman Nate Paxton's admission to her quite a surprise. With the notorious Deadeye Gang on the loose, Nate--a former U.S. Marshal--believes that Becky's ranch might be the best spot for a group of Marshals to use as a base and hideout.

The timing couldn't be more crucial for the growing town of Pine Valley, and Becky feels a commitment to help. But after escaping the grasp of her harsh father, she's never liked giving up control--of her life or her ranch. Again and again, Nate's proven himself to her and she soon realizes that if there's anyone she can trust with her ranch--and her heart--it might be him. But the outlaws won't go quietly, and as danger draws ever nearer, Becky and Nate are faced with impossible choices that will test their growing bond.

This rousing conclusion to Mary Connealy's Wyoming Sunrise series is an exhilarating blend of humor, romance, and adventure.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

This is the conclusion of the Wyoming Sunrise series so there are references to the three female friends who've faced adversity in Pine Valley, but this is Becky Pruitt's time to shine! Finally, we learn about her early years and the horrific abuse from her father that fostered her desire to stand on her own. Women ranch owners in 1871 were a rarity and I loved watching the relationship between Becky and her ranch foreman that deepens into something more than respect. Would she finally realize that decent men support and protect the women in their lives?

Saddle up for another western romance from author Mary Connealy and be prepared for more evil deeds from the Dead Eye Gang! Yes, this dangerous gang is still at work and it's definitely time to stop them for good. I found myself turning the pages to learn the identity of the leader of this notorious gang that continued to terrorize Pine Valley! If you enjoy historical Western fiction, grab a copy of Marshaling Her Heart and be prepared to lose yourself in a rip-roaring, action-filled story with a strong heroine, a fantastic hero, and a lovely romance. There's also humor and an inspiring faith message woven into the plot!

I accepted a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys that also have a strong suspense thread. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, and a Rita, Christy, and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist. 

Her most recent book series is Wyoming Sunrise.  Other series by Mary Conneal

y are: The Lumber Baron's' Daughters, Brothers in Arms, The Brides of Hope Mountain, Garrison’s Law, High Sierra Sweethearts, Cimarron Legacy, Wild at Heart, Trouble in Texas, and Kincaid Bride for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing. along with many novellas. 

Mary is the bestselling author of 70 books and novellas and she has nearly a million books in print! 

Learn more at her Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

WYOMING SUNRISE SERIES

Forged in Love

The Laws of Attraction

Marshaling Her Heart

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