The Juliet Code (Freddie & Grace Mystery #3) by Pepper D. Basham

ABOUT THE BOOK

Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley Finally Reach Their Honeymoon Destination Only to Encounter a New Mystery in Need of Solving
 
Frederick and Grace Percy finally make it to Italy to enjoy a delayed honeymoon and explore the beauties of the historic city of Venice. To their surprise, their friend, Detective Jack Miracle, is also in the city, investigating a series of art heists starting at the house of eccentric millionaire, Laraby Covington. Drawn into a world of boat races, mysterious houses, and parties of the rich and unusual in Venice, Frederick and Grace learn of the existence of the Juliet paintings, (Renaissance paintings feature Shakespeare’s tragic heroine) rumored to hold a secret code to an underground vault of similarly treasured artwork assumed lost over the centuries. As Freddie and Grace are pulled deeper into the mystery and their beloved Detective Jack disappears, can they use their wits and work as a team to find the thieves and Jack before it’s too late. 
 
The Juliet Code is a Freddie and Grace Mystery, sequel to The Mistletoe Countess and The Cairo Curse.

MY THOUGHTS.....

Grace Percy is finally getting a honeymoon in Italy with her husband, Lord Frederick Astley, but their honeymoon takes a back seat when they join Detective Jack Miracle in searching for stolen artwork. Venice may never be the same!

How can two people get in so much trouble without even trying? Is it Grace's insatiable love for mysteries that's come from reading detective stories, or is it Freddie's unswerving devotion to his bookish wife? I love these characters and I keep visualizing them as Nick and Nora Charles, the super-sleuthing couple from The Thin Man movies. Grace and Freddie are deeply in love, they don't run from adventure, and they're also charming and oh, so witty. I laugh out loud, I swoon over their romantic chemistry, and I'm always caught up in the adventure and danger!

If you want an intriguing adventure with romance, mystery, and exotic locations, grab a copy of The Juliet Code. It's rom-com at its best and a great addition to the Freddie & Grace Mystery series!

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

My rating: 4 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.

FREDDIE & GRACE MYSTERY

The Mistletoe Countess

The Cairo Curse

The Juliet Code

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Wanda E. Brunstetter's Amish Friends Life Hacks: Hundreds of Tips for Cooking, Cleaning, Gardening, Wellness, and More by Wanda E. Brunstetter

ABOUT THE BOOK

Hundreds of Practical Tips from Amish Housewives
 
New from New York Times bestselling author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter, this book is full of household advice and wisdom as shared by Amish contributors.
 
Do you seek ways to make everyday life easier? Here you will find hundreds of practical tips covering all aspects of keeping a home, from stain removal to homemade laundry detergent, from baking perfect piecrust to making recipe substitutions, from taming a cough to mending a cut. You’ll also find advice for canning fruits and vegetables, sewing, gardening, animal care, and more! Woven throughout are Amish sayings and proverbs and colorful photos, making this an enjoyable read and a perfect gift.
 

MY THOUGHTS.....

I've loved her Amish Friends cookbooks and now Wanda E. Brunstetter is offering a collection of tips and shortcuts that her Amish friends have discovered over the years. Amish Friends Life Hacks has hundreds of suggestions for cooking, cleaning, gardening, canning, crafting, and even health remedies. I'd heard of some of these hacks but many of them are completely new!

Wanda E. Brunstetter's Amish Friends Life Hacks is a cornucopia of common-sense knowledge that all of us can use. There are so many tips that I want to try and I'm especially excited to use some of the gardening hacks in the coming months. This is a wonderful resource to keep and a great book to give!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, but I also purchased a copy. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Want a peek inside the book? Check out my Pinterest Board!

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  Pinterest

Check out my Pinterest Board 

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Forever Free (Forever, #4) by Hope Toler Dougherty

ABOUT THE BOOK

Phoebe Sinclair combines her love of flowers and teaching to nurture a cut flower business on her grandfather’s land. She’s got her hands full growing the farm, growing her customer base, and dealing with her growing attraction to the aloof man who’s volunteered to help make her farming dream come true.

Can she focus on her main job, or will a pair of yearning eyes and a hurting heart divert her worthy goals?

Heath Daniels has resigned himself to a life of singleness as he watches his siblings couple up and set wedding dates. Tracking their happiness, however, is more difficult than he expected. A real struggle, in fact.

Feeling the old troubles creep back to tempt him—troubles from the bad time when he dropped out of college to explore less-than-noble pursuits—propels him to volunteer for manual labor that leaves him exhausted at the end of every day and out of trouble.

His additional hours of agri-business, however, lead to more struggles with an intriguing farmer. Does he have the strength to resist old temptations as well as a beautiful new one, too?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Forever Free is a heartwarming story that centers around Heath Daniels and his attempts to atone for the mistakes from his past. Working hard and staying busy seem the place to start but choosing to work with Phoebe Sinclair may not be his best choice. She also has issues, she needs to be in control, and it doesn't take long for the two of them to clash!

Honeysuckle Farm is a lovely setting and Phoebe and Heath are both great characters but the most endearing character for me has to be Phoebe's grandfather. Dempsey Stewart is a romance-loving, piano-playing optimist who isn't above matchmaking!

Guilt, grief, a return to faith, and the power of healing are just a few of the powerful topics in this inspiring story. This has been a wonderful series and I can't think of a better way for Hope Toler Dougherty to end it! I recommend Forever Free to all who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master’s degree in English and taught at East Carolina University and York Technical College. Her early novels are Irish Encounter, Mars…With Venus Rising, and Rescued Hearts. Her Forever series includes Forever Music, Forever Home, “A Hatteras Surprise," featured in Candy Cane Wishes and Saltwater Dreams, and Forever Free.

She and her husband Kevin delight in visits with their two daughters and twin sons. 

Want to learn more? Visit her Website or connect with her social media accounts. 

Facebook      Instagram       Pinterest     Bookbub    Goodreads      Amazon   

FOREVER SERIES

Forever Music

A Hatteras Surprise

Forever Home

Forever Free

View all my reviews

Life Is Hard, God Is Good, Let's Dance: Experiencing Real Joy in a World Gone Mad by Brant Hansen

ABOUT THE BOOK

‘Life Is Hard, God Is Good, Let's Dance’ by Brant Hansen is about one central idea: joy. The book emphasizes that a deep sense of well-being, regardless of circumstances, is not only possible but is promised to all who follow Jesus. The author, Brant Hansen, doesn't follow a success plan. Instead, he keeps showing up and taking Jesus very seriously. By doing so, he has become more joyful, peaceful, and full of laughter.

In this book, Brant shares stories from around the world, as well as from his own heart and head, with a writing style that will likely make you laugh, cry, and rethink your outlook on life and the kingdom of God. Through his unique life experiences and extensive travels, readers will see how God is moving through people all over the world. They will learn to live each day simply and with a faith and joy that is contagious.

Through short, energetic, captivating, and often humorous chapters, Brant's message will leave you with a renewed love for a simpler life that overflows with greater joy than you've ever experienced.

Brant says, “In this book, I want to take the format of Bob Goff’s Love Does and mix it with my own strange experiences, in a way that I think Ted Lasso would be proud of.”

Through short, energetic, captivating, and often humorous chapters, Brant's message will leave you with a renewed love for a simpler life that overflows with greater joy than you've ever experienced.

LIFE IS HARD Purchase Link

MY THOUGHTS.....

My favorite word is JOY, so I knew that I needed to read a book that has the subtitle 'Experiencing Real Joy in a World Gone Mad'. I am so glad that I did! Author Brant Hansen shares 26 encouraging essays, using life experiences and Bible scripture to illustrate his beautiful reflections on joy, goodness, and God's love.

'Life is Hard. God is Good. Let's Dance.' is my first introduction to Hansen and it's made me a fan! I was captivated from the beginning and felt as if we were sharing 26 personal conversations. He is a gifted storyteller who isn't afraid to use humor and a little sarcasm to make his point, and I also love the fun doodles that are sprinkled throughout the text.

Hansen's faith and sincerity are deeply inspiring and his positive attitude is contagious! I encourage everyone to read 'Life is Hard. God is Good. Let's Dance.'

I received a complimentary copy from FrontGate Women's Blogger Network. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Brant Hansen is considered one of the top radio hosts in the country. He has won multiple "Personality of the Year" awards from Christian Music Broadcasters and Radio and Records Magazine. (He's also well aware that he shouldn't put "multiple" next to "personality" because it sounds like a very strange award he keeps winning, but he does it anyway.) Brant is a sought-after speaker, known for a style that manages to be direct, hilarious, and disarming.

Brant's life experiences are unique: He also works as "Storyteller" with CURE International, a global network of hospitals and programs for children with correctible disabilities. He has traveled widely for CURE, including multiple visits to CURE's hospital for women and children in Afghanistan. In addition to his books, Unoffendable, Blessed are the Misfits, The Truth About Us, and The Men We Need. Brant has written for the Washington Post, USNews.com, CNN.com, InTouch, and Relevant.

He was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome as an adult, and talks about it extensively on his radio show, attracting a nationwide following among "Aspies" and their families. (He talks about this in his popular "I Am Second" video.) Brant has been married for thirty-one years to Carolyn, and they have two adult children.

Want to know more? Visit Brant Hanson's Website  

Follow him on Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

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A Cherished Betrothal (Scouts of the Georgia Frontier, Book 3) by Denise Weimer

ABOUT THE BOOK

He rescued her once, but a chance at love will require the ultimate sacrifice.

Alexander Morris bears the childhood scars of the Long Canes massacre that killed his brother and father. Forced by his dark past into the lonely life of Georgia Ranger, Alexander joins the bordering South Carolina Rangers in their revolt against the Crown. When he’s posted to the fort erected to defend the community once decimated by the massacre, duty demands he court the loyalty of his sworn enemies, the fierce Cherokee warriors.

Elspeth Lawrence never forgot the boy who sacrificed himself for her at Long Canes—any more than she forgot the younger sister taken captive. She’s learned not only to forgive, but also to help minister to the Cherokees at her father’s mission. When Alex Morris arrives at nearby Fort Charlotte, Elspeth finds her memories—and her emotions—stirred. He doesn’t even remember her…or the long-ago attack. But the bitterness that simmers just beneath his stoic exterior—as well as her courtship by a local landowner—challenge their undeniable bond.

When Alex uncovers a long-held secret and a plot to sabotage patriot talks with the Cherokees, he must choose between his desire for revenge and his love for the girl he rescued long ago.

AMAZON     

MY THOUGHTS.....

Reading this book has given me a glimpse of a time in history that I'd never known before! A Cherished Betrothal begins in 1775 but much of the backstory revolves around a Cherokee attack that took the lives of many settlers in southern Georgia in 1760. This moving story relates to two of the survivors and how they've dealt with the repercussions of this tragedy. One has chosen a life of faith and service, and the other has allowed bitterness to color his world.

A Cherished Betrothal is an intriguing historical romance and a wonderful addition to the Scouts of the Georgia Frontier Series! It's a poignant depiction of Elspeth Lawrence's love and devotion for a young boy who once saved her life, and her determined efforts to help him overcome his hatred and bitterness. Can she guide him on his journey to healing and forgiveness? Will he recognize the emotional ties that bind him to Elspeth?

Author Denise Weimer's love for history and her ability to weave truth with fiction is very evident in this captivating story, and I appreciate that many of her research findings are included in her author's notes. I recommend A Cherished Betrothal to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

North Georgia native Denise Weimer has authored over a dozen traditionally published novels and several novellas—historical and contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and time slip. As a freelance editor and Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison for Wild Heart Books, she’s helped other authors reach their publishing dreams. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.

To connect with Denise, please use the following links: Website Facebook Twitter  BookBub 

SCOUTS OF THE GEORGIA FRONTIER

A Counterfeit Betrothal

A Courageous Betrothal

A Cherished Betrothal

View all my reviews

Her Chance at Family (Heartland Sweethearts, 2) by Angie Dicken

ABOUT THE BOOK

She needs all the help she can get.

Will she accept it from him?

Getting left at the altar wasn’t in Elisa Hartley’s planner—but neither was gaining custody of her two orphaned nieces. Determined to be the best guardian possible, Elisa moves them into a newly renovated house. When landscape architect Sean Peters arrives to fix up her yard, he might just be able to heal her heart, too. Except Sean’s got a secret…and revealing it could throw a wrench in their happily-ever-after.

AMAZON     WALMART

MY THOUGHTS.....

Angie Dicken gives readers another chance to visit Rapid Falls, Iowa, and I'm thrilled to return! Her Chance at Family is a realistic story brimming with emotions: hurt, disappointment, family separation, and failed love affairs, but it's NEVER a downer! It is, instead, a heartwarming tale overflowing with hope, second chances, and love!

I loved the friendship that developed between Elisa Hartley and Sean Peters! Both had experienced broken hearts, and both were invested in providing a stable home for their younger relatives. It was very likely that Elisa's stay in Rapid Falls was temporary, and it didn't help that Sean had a secret that could instantly sever their bond of friendship. How could there possibly be a happy ending?

Her Chance at Family is a great addition to the Heartland Sweethearts series and the epilogue is especially satisfying! It's the perfect choice for anyone who enjoys family, small communities, and sweet contemporary romance.

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


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Angie Dicken credits her love of story to reading British literature during life as a military kid in Cambridgeshire, England. Now living in the U.S., she's an ACFW member, a blog contributor to the Writer's Alley, a baseball mom, and a self-proclaimed foodie. 

You can learn about her new releases by visiting her Website 

Facebook     Instagram

HEARTLAND SWEETHEARTS

Book 1: His Sweet Surprise
Book 2: Her Chance at Family

View all my reviews

Deadly Mountain Escape by Mary Alford

ABOUT THE BOOK

Can this officer stop a trafficking ring?

Or will deadly criminals stop her first?

A search for a missing young woman becomes a nightmare for K-9 deputy Charlotte Walker when she stumbles on a trafficking ring and is captured. Death seems certain until she’s rescued by rancher Jonas Knowles. Together, they take shelter in the Amish community he left behind. But they can’t hide forever—not when the criminals are still after them and countless girls are at risk… 

AMAZON    B&N     WALMART     

MY THOUGHTS.....

Have you ever fallen in love with a character that's a bluetick coonhound? Yes, Annie is Deputy Charlotte Walker's K-9 partner and she's a special part of Mary Alford's newest book. There's also a strong male character to help Charlotte and Annie as they search for a missing young woman. Will taking refuge in an Amish community lead to Jonah Knowles's return to the Amish faith that he once walked away?

Deadly Mountain Escape has so many elements that I love, including heart-pounding danger, hold-your-breath suspense, and emotional conflict. Can Charlotte and Jonas find relief from the grief and guilt that they've each experienced for so long? Will they finally overcome their doubts and learn to fully trust in God?

This is another captivating story from a favorite suspense author. Grab a copy if you're looking for mystery, romance, and an inspiring faith message. I recommend Deadly Mountain 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.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Alford is a USA Today bestselling author who loves giving her readers the unexpected, combining unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots that result in stories the reader can't put down. Her titles have been finalists for several awards, including the Daphne Du Maurier, the Beverly, the Maggie, and the Selah. She and her husband live in the heart of Texas in the middle of 70 acres with two cats and one dog. 

Learn more by visiting her Website     Facebook   Twitter     Instagram     Pinterest

    

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Vivienne in Paris by Maria Castellucci Moore: Review & Author Post

 

Book Details:

Book Title:  Vivienne in Paris by Maria Castellucci Moore
Category:  Children's Fiction (ages 5 to 9), 38 pages
Genre:  Children's Book
Publisher:  Mascot Kids
Release date:   May 2, 2023
Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.

Book Description:

Vivienne in Paris follows a young Parisian girl on a journey through Paris to find what makes her tick. Join Vivienne as she discovers the sights, smells, tastes, and sounds of the city that make her feel alive. What better place to explore, observe, and delight in her senses than Paris?

This book tells a story of mindfulness and insight into how the surrounding world can really move you. It unites curiosity, wonder, and marvel to enlighten, surprise, and tickle your deepest spirit. Sometimes it’s the smallest things that bring you the greatest joy.

Buy the Book:
Mascot Books
Amazon ~ B&N
add to Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS.....

One lazy Sunday morning, young Vivienne is given a special challenge by her grandfather. She should examine her feelings as she pretends to be a tourist who's seeing Paris for the very first time. Readers are allowed to view this special city through Vivienne's eyes, and I felt as if I was experiencing the "city of love" for the very first time, I could smell the flowers, taste the food, hear the music, and see all of the beauty!

Author Maria Castellucci Moore flavors her story with French words and the illustrations by Emanuela Mannello are simply gorgeous! This is such a delightful book, but I would suggest that parents with younger children read it together as a family because of the advanced vocabulary and the length of the story.

At the beginning of the book, Vivienne asks herself, "When was the last time my heart skipped a beat? When was the last time I felt true happiness unique to me?" Vivienne in Paris may be a book for children but it can also be a poignant reminder to adults. Perhaps we need to view our lives and surroundings with a fresh perspective!

I received a complimentary copy from the author via iRead Book Tours. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Meet the Author:

Entrepreneur, first-generation American, writer, and mother to four children, María strives to bring passion and enthusiasm to all her endeavors. A lover of all things European, María has found great passion through her travels to Paris, Italy, Spain, and South America. Her affection for winemaking, foreign languages, the arts, ballroom dancing, and traveling has given María a unique and grateful perspective on life. Her love for her family and helping others through charitable giving has enabled María to thoughtfully curate purposeful life adventures.

María Castellucci Moore earned her bachelor of arts degree in finance from Dominican University on a tennis scholarship, and later pursued studying at New York University and the London School of Economics with a focus on global affairs. In 2016, with her siblings, María founded Castellucci Napa Family, a luxury wine and real estate brand. María runs her wine label and a family real estate development company in the greater Bay Area. She is a board member of the San Francisco Opera Guild and is enthusiastic about building opportunity and community through the arts.

connect with author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Additional Thoughts from Maria!

I Didn't Know Being a Best-Selling Author Meant…

            The day my book hit the bestseller list, I was overcome with emotion. It was an indescribable feeling to see my work out in the world for people near and far to purchase. The idea of my long-awaited project being in the hands of children around the country is still a surreal idea and experience for me. I’ve walked into my local grocery store and have had numerous people come up to me, recognize me, and tell me how much their daughters or nieces are enjoying Vivienne in Paris and read it each night before they go to bed. It is such a heartwarming experience and I feel immense gratitude for this gift. I learned to pay greater attention to what my body and my emotions were telling me, and this led to the creation of Vivienne in Paris. I am fueled by the inspiration I seem to give others through my work and have a deep appreciation for all the accolades and awards this book has received. 

In the space of mindfulness, I really did not come across a children’s book that touched upon the usage of the five senses and how it related to becoming further aware and mindful and how that leads to finding true happiness. It was a challenge to find a book that touched upon these elements, so I had the desire to create one myself! 

I am most driven to be an inspiration to my children, so that they too can create work that will be well received and that can ignite a passion in someone else to create something that they may have always dreamed of creating. The journey of a thousand words begins with the first one!

---

Enter the Giveaway:

Vivienne in Paris by Maria Castellucci Moore Book Tour Giveaway

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Cold Threat (Ryland & St. Clair #2) by Nancy Mehl

ABOUT THE BOOK

Twenty years ago, several people were murdered in Des Moines, and the only evidence left behind was a snowman ornament hanging on a tree on their front lawns. With a suspect behind bars, the killings have come to an end--or so everyone thought. But now crimes with a similar MO are happening in a small Iowa town, and a local detective believes the killer is back and ready to strike again.

With little time on the clock before they have another murder on their hands, private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair must work alongside Tony's father to find evidence that will uncover an evil that has survived for far too long. As the danger mounts and the suspect closes in, it will take all they have to catch a killer--before he catches one of them.

USA Today bestselling author Nancy Mehl continues her explosive new FBI profiler series with an intense story of revenge and redemption.

MY THOUGHTS.....

River and Tony are back, and I couldn't be happier! Private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are quite a team but this time they're dealing with evil personified---a serial killer who leaves a snowman as a calling card! This killer is cold, calculating, and certainly a cold threat!

I'm always eager to read a new Nancy Mehl story and this book is no exception! Her characters are always memorable but they're never cookie-cutter. They may be noble but they're also fallible and when they are bad...they're truly bad! Somehow, even in the madness, Mehl shows God's goodness and the forgiveness that we achieve by looking to HIs light. I can always count on a relevant faith thread being woven into her exciting plots.

If you're looking for a captivating thriller with romance and a powerful faith message, grab a copy of this book. Cold Threat kept me turning the pages and the teaser at the end left me wanting more of Ryland and St. Clair!

I received a review copy courtesy of Bethany House Publishers through Interviews & Reviews for my honest opinion. I also received a copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband, Norman, and her very active puggle, Watson. First published in 2001, she has now authored nine books, including an omnibus mystery collection, Cozy in Kansas, which contains three of her previously published Ivy Towers mysteries. Book three in the series, For Whom the Wedding Bell Tolls, won the American Christian Fiction Writers Mystery Book of the Year award. Nancy's main writing interests lie in mystery although her new Harmony Series leans more toward the romantic suspense genre. Nancy runs a HUD program for the city of Wichita and is president of a volunteer organization, Wichita Homebound Outreach. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Kansas Authors Club.

Learn more about Nancy at her      Website     Facebook     Twitter   

Ryland & St. Clair (FBI Profiler Thriller Series)

Cold Pursuit

Cold Threat

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Dangerous Texas Hideout (Cowboy Protectors, 3) by Virginia Vaughan

ABOUT THE BOOK

Seeking refuge from danger…with threats at every turn

When her daughter is the only witness able to identify a group of bank robbers, single mom Penny Jackson knows their lives are in danger. These men will do anything to keep Missy quiet—permanently. Escaping to a small Texas town was supposed to be safe, but when the criminals track them down, police chief Caleb Harmon becomes their only hope for survival…

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

AMAZON     WALMART

MY THOUGHTS.....

Those Cowboy Protectors are at it again, and this time the heroic protector is Police Chief Caleb Harmon! Author Virginia Vaughan is a master in creating amazing heroes and Caleb is certainly one of the best. I loved his bravery and his unending efforts to protect a mother and daughter, but I especially admired the tenderness that he showed that frightened little girl.

Dangerous Texas Hideout is filled with danger, suspense, and non-stop action and it's perfect for anyone who enjoys twists and turns that keep you turning the pages. There's also a heart-warming romance and an inspiring faith element woven into the plot. This is a captivating addition to the Cowboy Protectors series, but it can also be considered a standalone. I recommend Dangerous Texas Hideout 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.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Virginia Vaughan is a former investigator for the State of Mississippi who left a promising career to pursue her dream of being a writer. Blessed to come from a large, Southern family, her fondest memories include hearing stories recounted by family and friends around the large dinner table. She was a lover of books even from a young age, devouring gothic romance novels and stories of romance, danger, and love. She soon started writing them herself, delving into the genre of romantic suspense, armed with her passion for writing and the knowledge gained from her criminal justice background

Learn more about Virginia at her Website   Facebook  Twitter    Instagram     Pinterest

Cowboy Protectors

Book 1: Kidnapped in Texas

Book 2: Texas Ranch Target

          Book 3: Dangerous Texas Hideout

  

View all my reviews

Forever Free (Forever, #4) by Hope Toler Dougherty: Author Chat & Recipe!

Forever Free releases Tuesday, January 23, 2024

AMAZON

I'm thrilled that Hope Toler Dougherty is visiting "Older & Smarter?" today! The fourth book in her Forever series releases in a few days and readers will finally get to know the real Heath Daniels. The other books have featured three siblings in the Daniels clan and now, it's Heath's turn! 

Welcome, Hope, thanks for chatting with us today!  I love the title and the cover of Forever Free! Will you share some behind-the-scenes info with us? 

Certainly! Heath Daniels is the last sibling in the Daniels clan to get his own story in the Forever Series. For several years, he’s watched Josie, Ben, and Sam couple up while he’s remained single on the sidelines. I was hesitant to begin telling his story because he hadn’t given me much to work with. He interacted with his family sparingly and seemed a bit set apart from them. He was also very closed mouth about his occupation, tastes, pastimes…everything. 

Grudgingly, he released those missing pieces bit by tiny bit. 

At the beginning of Forever Free, Heath feels like the black sheep in the family. In the high-achieving Daniels clan, he’s the one who dropped out of college, the one who struggled with substance abuse, the one who feels less than. 

Guilt from an early tragedy along with bad choices play important parts in Heath’s personality. Phoebe Sinclair has her hands full nurturing her cut flower farm, plus she also has to deal with a cute, but distant employee, the mysterious Heath. 

I enjoyed getting to know Heath and watching his growth from the sullen, misunderstood character to the confident businessperson who wants Phoebe to achieve her dream. I hope you’ll enjoy his story, too.

I'm reading Heath's story now and truly enjoying it. I'll be leaving my thoughts about it in a review post next week, and this weekend I plan to try the special recipe that you're sharing here today.  Swedish Nut Cake sounds delicious and I can't wait to try it with a hot cup of coffee. It sounds like a perfect treat to enjoy while reading Forever Free!

Yes, here’s a recipe Phoebe bakes for her grandfather in Forever Free. I’m not sure why it’s called Swedish Nut Cake, but I’m sure it’s delicious.

Swedish Nut Cake

Ingredients for cake:

2 C flour

1 ¾ C sugar

2 eggs

2 t baking soda

1 t vanilla

½ chopped nuts

1 20 oz. can crushed pineapple with juice

Ingredients for icing:

1 8 oz pkg creamed cheese

1/2 stick butter

1 t vanilla 

1 ½ C powdered sugar, sifted

Directions:

Mix all ingredients for cake and bake in a greased 9x13 pan at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes. For icing, mix all ingredients and frost the cooled cake. Store in the refrigerator.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master’s degree in English and taught at East Carolina University and York Technical College. Her early novels are Irish Encounter, Mars…With Venus Rising, and Rescued Hearts. Her Forever series includes Forever Music, Forever Home, “A Hatteras Surprise," featured in Candy Cane Wishes and Saltwater Dreams, and Forever Free.

She and her husband Kevin delight in visits with their two daughters and twin sons. 

Want to learn more? Visit her Website or connect with her social media accounts. 

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