Secrets in the Castle Library (In the Castle Library #3) by Ann Swindell

ABOUT THE BOOK

The past year of Melanie Tallebois’s life has unraveled, both professionally and personally. Usually unflappable, she can’t understand why life isn’t going to plan. So when she’s offered a professorship at the University of Lethersby, she seizes it as her chance to find the happiness that has eluded her for as long as she can remember. The fact that her best friend is the nation’s princess and has invited her to live in the castle for the summer doesn’t hurt, either.

The only thing eluding Eddie Canon are answers. As director of the National Museum of Lethersby, he’s spent years chasing the truth behind Queen Alma’s disappearance over a century ago. Now, tasked by the royals to tie up the loose ends of the national mystery, he’s studying in the castle library and still coming up empty-handed.

The last person Eddie wants to work with is Melanie, who inserts herself into his research—and his life. She’s brash, annoying, forthright...and altogether brilliant. Eddie thinks it wise to push her away, but as the research continues to stall, he can’t ignore that their friendship has begun to blossom.

When the long-lost queen’s mysteries finally come to light, Melanie is plunged into darkness—and Eddie questions everything he thought he understood about faith and love. Together, they must uncover the secrets in the castle library and decide whether they’re willing to trust God with a story far greater than their own.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Secrets in the Castle Library is a mesmerizing conclusion to an awesome series! It has a castle setting, a reunion with beloved characters, and a beautiful faith message combined with history, mystery, and romance. Melanie knows her friends have changed after reading a former Queen's journal, but she doesn't realize that she will also benefit from those inspiring words. Will Melanie discover the key to her own happiness and self-worth as she searches for clues about Queen Alma's disappearance?

I have become a forever fan of Ann Swindell after reading this book and the previous book in the "In the Castle Library" series! Her efforts to share the Gospel message are powerful but never overbearing, and her stories may impact other readers searching for answers. Secrets in the Castle Library is a delightful story of love, faith, and acceptance. I recommend it to all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.

I received a complimentary digital ARC. There was no obligation for a positive review.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ann Swindell writes stories that point to Christ’s presence in our day-to-day lives and the hope He brings to our hearts. She is the author of multiple books and the owner of Writing with Grace, where she teaches Christ-centered writing classes for women. Ann lives in West Michigan, and she enjoys adventuring with her family…usually with a cup of Earl Grey tea in hand.

Learn more at Ann's Website .

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IN THE CASTLE LIBRARY SERIES

Christmas in the Castle Library

Love in the Castle Library

Secrets in the Castle Library

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Chasing Daniel's Daughter (Daniel's Daughters, Book 3) by Mindy Steele

ABOUT THE BOOK

After a storm destroyed her family's home, Martha Jane Raber was certain Aiden would rush back to Miller’s Creek to be with her. While waiting to become his wife, M.J. offers to help a friend learn to read. As the season blooms around Miller’s Creek, M.J. grows more determined than ever to get her own happy-ever-after.

If Sam Lewis could change one thing about himself, it would be the smudge on his last name. Taking a job with Daniel Raber might have cost him, but he soon discovers a new friendship with a woman who speaks to rainclouds and roosters. Being only her friend while she pines over another takes some strength, but Sam knows his place. That was, until M.J. disappears and Sam has no choice but to chase after the miller’s daughter.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

This book continues a story that first captured my heart several years ago. Daniel Raber instantly became a husband and father when he rescued a young widowed mother and her three little girls from a tragic situation. Their captivating love story showed that heroes don't always wear capes, and the best fathers aren't always biological! 

In the third and final book in the Daniel's Daughters series, the little girls Daniel Raber chose to father have all grown up. Two are married, and the youngest is hoping to be a bride soon, if her intended beau ever returns to Miller's Creek. Martha Jane is concerned, but this doesn't change her sweet, caring nature. Becoming friends with Sam Lewis sets the stage for an unexpected development. Had M.J. been considering the wrong person for her happily-ever-after?

Author Mindy Steele shares an engaging story of love, faith, devotion, and family. I loved returning to Miller's Creek, reuniting with many of M.J.'s friends and family, and watching Daniel become a typical father bear when his daughters are involved. Chasing Daniel's Daughter warmed my heart and left me convinced that Steele has no limits in creativity or writing ability! It is enjoyable as a standalone, but I suggest you read His Amish Wife's Hidden Past, the book that started it all, and the other books in the Daniel's Daughters series!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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

Learn more by visiting Mindy's Website. 

You can also follow her on Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

His Amish Wife's Hidden Past 

Daniel's Daughters Series

Courting Daniel's Daughter

Saving Daniel's Daughter

Chasing Daniel's Daughter

View all my reviews

A K-9 Christmas Blessing (Aspen Creek Cowboys #2; K-9 Companions Book 50)) by Tina Radcliffe

ABOUT THE BOOK

Can a sweet Christmas K-9

Make this sudden reunion bright?

After rescuing an injured beagle, therapy dog trainer Jo Webster reluctantly turns to the new veterinarian in town, who’s also her former fiancé. But when Nate Morris suggests a prosthetic leg for the wounded dog, there’s no way Jo can afford it. Reluctantly, she agrees to a part-time job at his clinic during the Christmas season to pay for the treatment. Soon, Jo learns Nate is not the same man she broke off her engagement to years ago. If they can learn to forgive each other for past hurts, they might build something new and beautiful together for the holidays—and forever.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I love second-chance stories, and what's better than second chances during the season of miracles? A K-9 Christmas Blessing is a delightful story that takes readers back to Aspen Creek, Colorado, during the holiday season. Nate, the new vet in Aspen Creek, treats a sweet pug owned by his former fiancée, and their surprise reunion sets the stage for a tender story of reconciliation, forgiveness, and healing. I loved seeing Jo and Nate's personal growth, but they don't do it alone. Author Tina Radcliffe shares an amazing cast of supporting characters, including sweet pug Romeo, strong-willed Myrtle, Jo's mother, Delilah, and Nate's sister, Maggie. I hope the epilogue's mention of Maggie's new job means she will soon be given her own story in the Aspen Creek Cowboys series. I'm especially intrigued that she'll be working at Saunders Cattle Holding! Hmm...that name sounds familiar!

Looking for a sweet, engaging romance set during the season of miracles? Grab a copy of A K-9 Christmas Blessing, turn on some Christmas music, and you will soon want to pull out your own totes filled with Christmas decorations. (Chapter 6)

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

Publishers Weekly bestselling author Tina Radcliffe hails from Western New York. She left home for a tour of duty with the Army Security Agency stationed in Augsburg, Germany, and ended up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. While living in Tulsa, she spent ten years as a Certified Oncology R.N. before heading to Colorado as a library cataloger.

​A freelance writer for over twenty years, Tina is a Romance Writer of America and American Christian Fiction Writers Honor Roll member.

Tina is also a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist. She is a four-time ACFW Carol Award finalist and a three-time ACFW Mentor of the year finalist. ​Her Harlequin books have won the ACFW Carol Award and the Holt Medallion. She has placed or won over thirty RWA chapter-affiliated contests in her career. As a short story writer, she has sold over forty short romances to Woman’s World Magazine.

​Tina is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Sisters in Crime, and Women's Fiction Writers Association. A popular workshop speaker, she currently lives in Arizona, where she writes fun, heartwarming romance.

You can connect with Tina at her   Website     Facebook     Pinterest      Instagram     BookBub 

Tina also has a great newsletter filled with fun facts and great giveaways for her newsletter subscribers. Sign up for her newsletter HERE.

ASPEN CREEK COWBOYS

The Sheriff's Secret Past

A K-9 Christmas Blessing

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The Heart's Most Wanted (Rocky Mountain Marshals #2) by Mary Connealy

ABOUT THE BOOK

US Marshal Morgan Sawyer rides into the treacherous Rocky Mountains on a mission to find fellow Marshal Tex, who vanished while they were escorting a dangerous prisoner. But ranchwoman Roz Beck insists on riding beside him, despite Morgan's protests. Joined by newlyweds Owen and Delaney, and Roz's young son, they push deep into the wilderness.

Widowed Roz was wounded in love when her now-deceased husband abandoned her, leaving her alone to raise a child. While her heart longs for love, for her son's sake, she'll settle for a man she trusts like Morgan, her childhood friend. When a shadowy figure begins prowling the search party's camp at night, the group realizes that something more than the wilderness poses a threat to their quest of bringing Tex to safety. Will the looming danger strengthen Morgan and Roz's growing feelings and faith in each other, or will it be their breaking point?

With witty banter, a rugged hero, and a spirited heroine, Mary Connealy presents another action-packed installment in her Rocky Mountain Marshals series.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Historical western romance has become one of my favorite book genres! I credit much of this to author Mary Connealy, because she writes books that keep me cheering the heroes and disliking the villains. In this book, the Rocky Mountain Marshals are the obvious heroes, but it took me a while to determine the villain!

Owen, Morgan, and Tex encounter multiple challenges as U.S. marshals in The Heart's Most Wanted. Winter is approaching, and they face danger from both man and nature in the rugged Colorado terrain.

I was intrigued by the questions surrounding Tex's disappearance and the "ghostly" figure lurking in the background. I enjoyed the mystery, but I absolutely loved the romance, witty dialogue, and inspiration! I recommend The Heart's Most Wanted to all who enjoy historical western romance, and I look forward to Tex and Stella's upcoming story.

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


My rating: 4 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 Connealy 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

Rocky Mountain Marshals

Ambush of the Heart

The Heart's Most Wanted

View all my reviews

Montana Christmas Target by Terri Reed

ABOUT THE BOOK

Running from armed gunmen — and seeking a safe refuge.

Sculptor Fiona Halverson is shocked to stumble upon her ex-fiancé’s murder—just before a masked attacker attempts to abduct her. She’s rescued by FBI Special Agent Bryce Springs, who is investigating a counterfeit ring that points directly to Fiona’s art gallery. Forced to flee from a dangerous crime boss during a brutal blizzard, Fiona and Bryce must uncover how her gallery became part of a criminal operation—and prove her innocence. Facing armed adversaries and the treacherous storm, they’ll risk everything to expose the truth. But with every step, the fight for justice becomes a battle for their very survival.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Poor Fiona! Her ex-fiancé's been murdered, someone has tried to kidnap her, and she's suspected of involvement in a counterfeit ring. Could things get any worse? Only if you consider being caught in a blizzard as being worse!

Terri Reed is one of my go-to authors for romantic suspense! I can always count on a fast-paced story with danger, adventure, and multifaceted characters enduring physical and emotional challenges! I loved the growing attraction between Fiona and Bryce as they battled both man and nature. Could this FBI agent help Fiona prove her innocence? Would they overcome their mutual trust issues to give their relationship a chance?

Are you looking for a book you won't want to put down? I recommend Montana Christmas Target to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense!

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

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Terri Reed's awarding winning romance and romantic suspense novels have appeared on Publishers Weekly top 5 Romance Bestsellers and Publishers Weekly top 5 Religion Fiction Bestsellers, Publishers Weekly top 5 Mass Market Paperback Bestsellers, Nielsen's Bookscan top 25 Bestsellers and featured in USA Today and have been #1 Amazon Bestsellers, as well as Fresh Picks at FreshFiction.com. Her novel A Family Under the Christmas Tree was adapted into a Hallmark movie and retitled Picture a Perfect Christmas. She resides in the Pacific Northwest with her college-sweetheart husband. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and agility training with her dog.

Learn more by visiting Terri's      Website    Facebook     Instagram

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Secrets in Amish Country by Mary Alford

ABOUT THE BOOK

The truth could cost her everything…

even her life.

Eve Lantz’s life takes a deadly shift when her return home after her brother’s sudden death is met with gunfire from an unknown assailant. Still haunted by her father’s unsolved murder, Eve is determined to uncover the truth behind the tragedies surrounding her family. Joining forces with her childhood friend, Assistant Police Chief Casey Masterson, she plunges into a dangerous investigation. Casey vows to protect Eve and expose the secrets linking these crimes, but the deeper they go, the more perilous their search becomes. The shadowy perpetrator will stop at nothing to keep his dark secrets hidden—and Eve may be the next victim.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

"This wasn't how she imagined coming home."  

This first line sets the stage for another compelling story from author Mary Alford.  Her brother's death prompts Evie Lantz's return to Rachel's Crossing, but she's certain that he didn't commit suicide!  Has the person who murdered her father twelve years ago struck again? Will Evie become the next target?

Well-defined characters and a finely tuned plot kept me turning the pages of Secrets in Amish Country. I was immediately drawn into Evie's terrifying mission to find answers while protecting her mother and her young niece. She was in danger physically, but her emotions were definitely at risk! Would her guilt and grief continue to derail her relationship with God? Could she give her heart to a man who was no longer Amish?

If you enjoy page-turning romantic suspense woven with threads of inspiration, grab a copy of Secrets in Amish Country. It's a riveting addition to the Rachel's Crossing series.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. A positive review was never required.

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    

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RACHEL'S CROSSING, KENTUCKY 

Framed in Amish Country

Shattered Amish Identity

Unsolved Amish Abduction

Secrets in Amish Country

• 
  

  

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Deadly Charade (FBI New Recruits #1) by Lynette Eason & Kelly Underwood

ABOUT THE BOOK

Special Agent Kira Miller's new career at the FBI has started--in translations. It's not the opportunity she was hoping for to show off her skills, until she detects a lead in the paperwork. Now assigned an undercover role, she's in her element as she gathers intel on an art smuggling ring. She's daunted not by the mission but by her cover--posing as a married woman to the fake husband she met less than twenty-four hours ago.

Special Agent Bryce Lambert's assignment to charade as a newlywed couple with Kira has the two of them moving next door to the prime suspects, and a relationship is the last thing he wants, fake or real. With secret auctions, hidden treasures, and a legend of art thought to be lost forever, there's plenty to keep them busy--if only they can play the part their lives and careers depend upon while keeping their own hearts in check.

Romantic suspense novelists Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood collaborate in this fast-paced thriller that weaves high-stakes danger with a hard-fought happily ever after.

MY THOUGHTS.....

I am a fan of both Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood, so you can imagine my delight when I learned that they had written a book together! And what a story it turned out to be! Deadly Charade is an engaging mix of historical facts, thrilling suspense, and satisfying romance. Could priceless treasures stolen during World War II be the same art now being sold by an art smuggling ring? Would a fake marriage between two FBI agents help solve the case?

The real-life mystery of the unsolved Amber Room theft inspired the art-theft scenario, and the authors kept me guessing with the multiple twists, turns, and "I didn't see that coming" moments! Add a strong attraction to the pretend marriage relationship, and Deadly Charade becomes a magical slow-burn romance!

This top-notch suspense thriller is an awesome beginning to the FBI New Recruits series. I look forward to reading more collaborations between Eason and Underwood!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. A positive review was never required.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Lynette Eason is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty books. Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. She has won numerous awards including the Carol, the Selah, the Golden Scroll, and more. Her novel, Her Stolen Past was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network.

Lynette teaches at writing conferences all over the country and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Mystery Writers of America (MWA), International Thriller Writers (ITW), and Faith, Hope, and Love.

Learn more at her Website    

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Kelly Underwood’s favorite things are reading, writing, and drinking coffee. She was born in New Hampshire, but don’t ask her about snow, because she’s been a Florida girl since she was twelve. She writes book reviews for her blog bestinsuspense.com and is an active member of the Central Florida chapter of the American Christian Fiction Writers. She’s a sucker for a good suspense novel, the kind you have to read cover-to-cover until the mystery is solved and the bad guys are in handcuffs. If you’re looking for her, she’s probably on her back patio with a Kindle in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other.

Learn more at her Website     Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

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An Accusing at the Old Bailey (Of Cloaks and Daggers, #3) by Erica Vetsch

ABOUT THE BOOK

The thrilling finale to the highly rated Regency romance series

Sir Bertrand Thorndike is on another mission-this one in the scientific community. But when a simple game of espionage becomes a murder investigation and Bertie's friend Rhynwick Davies is the accused, Bertie enlists the help of his pseudo-fiancée Philippa Cashel to spare Rhynwick from the gallows.


Together, they delve into poisons, passions, and peril. With the true killer still on the loose, Bertie must balance proving Rhynwick's innocence with his plans to persuade Philippa to make their false engagement real.


The final installment in the Of Cloaks & Daggers series from a New York Times best-selling author will be the biggest test yet of Bertie and Philippa's skill and bravery―and of their love.


"Deliciously twisty and delightfully romantic, An Accusing at the Old Bailey is everything readers adore about an Erica Vetsch novel. Vibrant historical details create an atmosphere worthy of a BBC drama as Bertie and Philippa take on their most daring case yet."

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

It's finally happened! Philippa Cashel and Sir Bertrand Thorndike have a chance to resolve their true feelings for each other! It's very obvious how Bertie feels about her but it's going to take a little longer for Pippa to determine her feelings for him. Pretending to be engaged while investigating murder and espionage soon turns into a slow-burn romance that leaves Pippa confused and Bertie anxious to make it real!

An Accusing at the Old Bailey has Regency values, excellent plot development, and daring adventure, along with a satisfying romance that kept me flip flopping between "hurry it up" and "no, keep the anticipation going a little longer"! This conclusion to the Of Cloaks & Daggers series also features a reunion with other members from the Haverly Universe. Their friendship and mutual respect for each other has deepened and their dedication and devotion to protecting the Crown has never been stronger!

I'm always awed by Erica Vetsch's writing talents, but this historical fiction set in Regency England is especially satisfying! If you enjoy mystery and adventure that are woven with a clean romance and inspiring nuggets of faith, grab a copy of An Accusing at the Old Bailey!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota. Learn more about Erica at ericavetsch.com.

Connect with Erica by visiting ericavetsch.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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OF CLOAKS & DAGGERS

A Thieving at Carlton House

A Scheming in Parliament

An Accusing at the Old Bailey

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Coordinates of Death (Arctic Protectors, 2) by Darlene L. Turner

ABOUT THE BOOK

A police officer will do anything to catch the serial killer that got away—even if it means playing a deadly game in the icy wilderness.

Sweetwood Falls, Yukon, has seen too much terror for one small town. Corporal Aurora Hunt still blames herself for not catching the Shadow Box Killer before five women lost their lives. The killings stopped two years ago, and her colleagues believe the murderer is dead. But Aurora isn’t convinced.

A chilling discovery on a winter’s morning confirms her fears. The crime scene is all too familiar—a woman’s mutilated body, and beneath it, a box containing a gruesome souvenir. But this time, there’s a special message, daring Aurora to play a game that will lead her into the wilderness to try and save the next victim.

Canadian Watcher Squad survivalist Kordell Greene is part of the past that Aurora has tried to put behind her. He’s also the only person equipped to guide her through this deadly terrain. But somehow, the killer knows all their secrets. Solving cryptic clues as they battle the elements, Aurora and Kordell must confront dark truths they’ve withheld, even from each other. And always, the Shadow Box Killer is one step ahead, drawing them deeper into a twisted game where the slightest mistake may be their last.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

The Shadow Box Killer has returned, with a challenge for Constable Aurora Hunt. Solve the clues so that he or she won't strike again!

Kudos to author Darlene L. Turner! Realistic characters, an intriguing plotline, and strong emotional undercurrents elevate Coordinates of Death from mystery/suspense to a mesmerizing psychological thriller! The Shadow Box Killer is evil personified, and his taunting challenges for Constable Aurora Hunt are often gut-wrenching. Can she prevent SBK from killing again?

I loved the personal relationship between Aurora and Watchmen Kordell Greene, and I relished the strong faith message that's woven into this well-written story! This was a book that was hard to put down!

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

My rating: 5 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.

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

  

ARCTIC PROTECTORS

Echoes of Darkness

Coordinates of Death 

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The Memory House: A Psychological Thriller by Mary Alford

ABOUT THE BOOK

Some truths aren't buried.

They're hidden inside us.

When grief counselor Elise Warren inherits Coldwater Hollow, the crumbling Victorian estate of her estranged father, she expects to settle his affairs and finally leave the past behind.

Instead, she finds hidden journals, secret recordings, and evidence that her father’s controversial psychological treatments may have harmed more than they healed.

The Memory House is a gripping psychological suspense novel about memory, identity, and the dangerous secrets families bury in the name of protection.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Wow! I'm a fan of her Amish suspense novels but this new book by author Mary Alford showcases her ability to write contemporary suspense! The Memory House is a taut, psychological thriller that questions how susceptible our minds are to suggestion. Elise Warren has memories of her childhood before she and her mother left Coldwater Hollow, but she wonders if they were real or imagined. Was there another little girl named Ivy who once lived at this house? Was this why her mother took her away from Coldwater Hollow when she was ten years old? How much knowledge did her late father have about her concerns?

Alford kept me turning the pages to find answers to Elise's ever-increasing questions. I found myself enthralled with the gloomy atmosphere, unexplained happenings, and Elise's physical and emotional trauma after she returned to Coldwater Hollow. Thankfully, she had physical protection from local Deputy Reid Carver, but would her training as a counselor help her as she worked to determine truth from fiction?

If you're looking for twists, turns, and an unsettling story with ghostly vibes, grab a copy of this engaging story reminiscent of the gothic novels I've always loved!

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Alford is a New York Times and 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 garnered several awards and nominations. She and her husband live in the middle of 70 acres, in the heart of Texas, with two cats and one dog. 

Learn more by visiting her Website    

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Advent Unhurried: Daily Devotions for a Season of Wonder and Stillness by Micha Boyett

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rediscover a More Contemplative Path Toward Christmas

From Sarah Bessey, New York Times bestselling author of A Rhythm of Prayer, on Micha Boyett's previous book: "I absolutely love this book." Now Boyett brings that same tender, unflinching honesty to Advent Unhurried, a collection of twenty-eight daily reflections offering rest, hope, and a slower path to Christmas.

It's no secret that the holiday season arrives overscheduled and oversentimental, pressuring us toward a manufactured cheer long before we're ready for it. Advent has always resisted that pace--a season built for waiting, not rushing, for sitting with longing before we arrive at joy. Honoring that older, slower tradition in daily form, this devotional

● integrates poems, prayers, practices, and prose;

● goes beyond the easy sentimentality of the holiday season; and

● features a beautiful design and custom illustrations throughout.

If you feel caught between sorrow and joy, doubt and faith, this book gives you permission: carrying more questions than certainty is still a faithful way to wait. With warmth and honesty, Boyett explores the witness of Mary, who models what it means to say yes to love even when faith is hard to come by.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

Even though I am always happy learning about a new Advent devotional, I have mixed feelings about Advent Unhurried. I love that its primary focus is Mary, the mother of Jesus, and I like that the four weeks of devotions focus on the traditional Advent themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. I also find it intriguing that author MIcha Boyett uses prose, poetry, reflections, and step-by-step practices to guide us during this time. The poems are enjoyable but I consider some of the devotions very long and wordy. I fear that some readers will find them too time-consuming, even though this book was written to provide a relaxed Advent experience.

Posting a timely review created a need to browse this book quickly but I plan to reread it as the author intended. I want to slow down, savor the mystery, and fully discover the wonders of Advent!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Micha Boyett is a blogger, wife, and mom with a Masters of Fine Arts in Poetry degree from Syracuse University. A former youth minister, she's passionate about monasticism and ancient Christian spiritual practices and how they inform the contemporary life of faith. Boyett and her husband live in San Francisco with their two boys.

Learn more by visiting her  Website 

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