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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Matriarchs: What the Women of Genesis Teach Us About Our Part in God's Story by Paige Allen

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Women's Bible Study on Sarah, Rebekah, Leah, and Rachel--and What They Still Teach Us About Living Our Calling

Matriarchs is a Bible study by Paige Allen--executive pastor, MDiv graduate, and author of He Knows Your Name--that examines the lives of the four Matriarchs of Sarah, Rebekah, Leah, and Rachel. Drawing on these women's stories alongside her own, Allen makes the case that women have always been central to how God's promises are fulfilled on earth--not secondary characters, but essential co-authors of the story.

Written for women who sense a calling they haven't yet acted on--a business, a ministry, a family legacy, a dream they keep setting aside--this study explores what the Matriarchs of Genesis can teach women today about fear, faith, and following through. Inside you'll

● In-depth study of four Genesis women -- Sarah, Rebekah, Leah, and Rachel, explored through both biblical scholarship and personal storytelling
● Bible study elements throughout -- structured questions for personal reflection or group discussion, designed for women's small groups, church classes, or independent study
● Six free video teachings by Paige Allen -- accessible at PaigeAllen.net, each one expanding on what she has learned from the mothers of the faith, making this ideal for groups who want a richer, led experience
● Honest, memoir-style teaching -- Allen pairs biblical insight with her own stories of audacious faith and hard-won failure, making the content accessible and deeply personal
● Practical frameworks for calling -- how to embrace God's promises, wait well under uncertainty, lean into pain, nurture a God-given dream, and release it into the world

What sets Matriarchs apart from other women's Bible studies on Genesis is its dual rigorous enough to satisfy serious students of Scripture, personal enough to feel like a conversation with a trusted pastor. Allen doesn't sanitize these women--she shows them scheming, despairing, and doubting--and argues that their very humanity is what makes them such reliable guides for women navigating the same terrain today.

If you're ready to see your own role in God's story more clearly--and find the courage to step into it--Matriarchs is where to start.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

A matriarch is described as "a mother who is head and ruler of her family and descendants". Author Paige Allen shares the lives of Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, and Leah, in an intriguing exploration of the four matriarchs introduced in Genesis. They experienced doubts and trials during their faith journeys, and their responses set the standard for all of us who now follow. Our faith has been patterned because they persevered in answering God's calling!

Allen is both encouraging and enlightening! Reading her thoughts is like a personal conversation, and her total transparency invites readers to explore their own struggles. She uses five stages to list her observations and ends each stage with questions that spurred my thinking. I especially appreciated that there's ample space to jot down my thoughts!

This book is a powerful reminder that we women are a special part of God's plan. Matriarchs is a wonderful resource for personal use and it would also be perfect for a women's bible group!

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

Paige Allen is a wife, mother, pastor, speaker, and podcast host. She’s passionate about opening the door for others to have ah-ha moments with Scripture, and she believes our stories have the power to transform lives. Paige serves as executive pastor at a multi-site church in Texas, and she holds an M.Div. from The King’s University. Paige is a fan of vanilla lattes, a good book, and West Texas sunsets. 

Learn more at https://www.paigeallen.net/

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The Mistletoe Baby (Home to Evermore Ranch, #1) by Heidi Main

ABOUT THE BOOK

They both long for a true home.
Can the holidays bring opposites together?

Saving his family’s Texas ranch is former bull rider Reggie Evermore’s Christmas wish. And he’s sure socialite Natalie Patterson can help him plan the perfect event to bring in cash. Pregnant, recently divorced and ready to prove her independence, Natalie needs a paycheck and a place to stay. So she accepts Reggie’s job offer. But planning a fundraiser is harder than attending them! When Reggie learns the truth, he’s less than happy. Can they work through their differences to transform the ranch and give love a chance to grow?                                         

AMAZON     

MY THOUGHTS.....

What could be better than a return visit to the small Texas town featured in many of Heidi Main's books? How about spending Christmas in Serenity while waiting for a baby that's due in early January? Natalie Patterson needs a job and a place to live after her marriage falls apart and her adoptive parents disown her. Could the answer to her prayers be a temporary job planning a fundraiser to help Reggie Evermore save his special family's ranch?

Reggie and Natalie had both been orphans, so trust and family were major issues in their engaging relationship. I was reminded that families aren't created by blood alone, and friendship can be a wonderful start to a promising future. I loved the detailed character development, realistic emotions, and inspiring faith journeys depicted in The Mistletoe Baby. Most of all, I wondered if this sweet romance could lead to something more? Hopefully, an answer will be given in future books of the Home to Evermore Ranch series!

The cover put a smile on my face, and the story warmed my heart! I recommend The Mistletoe Baby to all who enjoy Christian romance.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heidi Main writes sweet inspirational romance novels set in small towns. She lives in the central North Carolina’s suburbs, but dreams of acreage and horseback riding, which is probably why her novels include wide-open ranches and horses.

She loves to take walks, garden, play board games, curl up with a good book, and watch HGTV. A perfect Saturday is lounging on the deck with her husband and watching the many birds in their backyard. 

Learn more by visiting her Website or following her on    Facebook     Twitter     Instagram

HOME TO EVERMORE RANCH

The Mistletoe Baby

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The Faithful Cowboy (Noble Ranch #4) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE BOOK

As a widow with young children, rancher Lottie Wilkes is determined to do two things. First, she’s determined not to get married again so that she doesn’t become like her fickle mother, who’s had many husbands. Second, Lottie wants to prosper and protect her ranch, which is proving hard to do against those who think there’s no place for women in ranching.

Jameson Noble has been a drifting cowboy since the day he ran away from home after a falling-out with his family. As he arrives at the Longhorn Ranch hoping for work, he finds himself in the middle of a gun battle, helping the beautiful ranch owner fend off the neighbor, who’s been harassing her.

Grateful for the assistance, Lottie agrees to hire Jameson for a month, which is as long as he’s willing to stay. His steady and faithful presence wins over her sons, and it’s not long before she’s falling for the drifter too. When her boys beg her to convince Jameson to be their new father, she refuses to consider love and remarriage . . . until it’s too late and she stands to lose everything. 

The inspirational themes in this book are light, and the romance is the primary focus. While the romance is sizzling and the kisses swoony, both the language and physical attraction are clean and wholesome.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

The Faithful Cowboy is another engaging story by author Jody Hedlund! She gives readers an amazing hero, an admirable heroine, and the perfect mix of conflict, pent-up emotions, and swoony romantic chemistry. Jameson Noble and Lottie Wilkes may have entered into a marriage of convenience, but it doesn't take long to see that their intense reactions to each other are anything but fake! Who can reject a friendship that's intensified by kindness and powerful physical attraction? Who can resist a man who wins the heart of two little boys?

The first three books were great, but this final book in the Noble Ranch series has become my favorite! It's perfect for fans of clean but sizzling historical romance!

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

My rating: 4 of 5 star

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jody Hedlund is the best-selling author of over thirty historicals for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Award. She lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy teens, and five spoiled cats.

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.  

Learn more at Jody's Website     

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NOBLE RANCH

The Forever Cowboy

The Favored Cowboy

The Fearless Cowboy

The Faithful Cowboy

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Exploring Psalms and Proverbs: A Creative Coloring Journal by Jacqui Grace

ABOUT THE BOOK

You were created to be creative!

That impulse to make our world beautiful and meaningful isn't an "extra"--it's essential to our peace and happiness. And what better way to exercise our God-given creativity than to weave it into our study and worship of the one who gave it?

Exploring Psalms and Proverbs is more than a coloring book. It's a creative coloring journal that blends hand-drawn artwork suitable for any skill level with thoughtful journaling prompts to inspire you and help you adorn your life with peace and beauty.

This beautiful and engaging resource features:

● pages with a dedicated space for coloring as well as reflective journaling

● hand-drawn illustrations on high-quality paper to absorb ink without bleeding

● designs with hand-lettered Bible verses that give you the opportunity to meditate on God's love and wisdom

Reflect, relax, and rejoice as you cultivate a creative habit while considering meaningful Scripture from Psalms and Proverbs.

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

I don't think we ever outgrow the love of coloring, but this book is much more than a coloring book! Exploring Psalms and Proverbs is a creative coloring journal with delightful illustrations, journaling prompts, and a space to record personal thoughts and reflections. What could be better than relieving stress and anxiety while growing in your Christian faith?

I love this new book, and I'm already thinking of others who would feel the same! Exploring Psalms and Proverbs is a wonderful gift suggestion for birthdays and Christmas. Watch their joy as they unwrap a present with this book and coloring pens or crayons. Another plus? No concerns about your gift being age-appropriate or the right size!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. My review reflects my honest opinion.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jacqui Grace is a professional artist and designer who has created illustrated books, greeting cards, gift wrap, and more. The creator of the Images of Grace inspirational coloring book, Jacqui lives in England with her husband and son.

Learn more by visiting her Website

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Defending the Innocent Target (Canine Defense, 5) by Carol J. Post

ABOUT THE BOOK

Danger in the shadows.

A K-9 keeping guard.

When Isaac Cooper and his K-9 partner investigate suspicious activity at the house next door, they discover Brandi Feldman, the frightened new owner who has been attacked. The home she inherited hides dark secrets, and there are traps around every corner. As threats against her escalate, it’s clear someone wants her gone—at any cost. Under Isaac’s vigilant protection, Brandi must uncover the truth about her deadly inheritance. But can they outmaneuver a killer determined to make Brandi’s next move her last?

AMAZON

MY THOUGHTS.....

So many questions, so many secrets, so much danger! The opening pages of Defending the Innocent Target set the stage for a heart-pounding adventure that only gets more bizarre! Brandi Feldman's world is turned upside down after she inherits an estate from an unknown grandmother, but this is only the beginning. She also discovers that she was adopted! Her life has been built on a lie, and someone wants that lie erased forever. There's someone who wants Brandi permanently out of the picture!

Carol J. Post spins a tale filled with danger, suspense, and relatable emotions. Startling revelations have altered Brandi's perceptions of her previous life, so it shouldn't be a surprise that she now has trust issues. Should she rely on the neighbor who knew her late grandmother? Can Isaac Cooper and his K-9 partner help her find the answers before a killer succeeds with his deadly mission?

I enjoyed Brandi and Isaac's slowly developing relationship. Their desperate efforts to survive gradually morphed into full trust and emotional attachment. Could their sweet, heartwarming romance provide balm for previous hurts? Would they both experience a renewal of faith?

I'm never disappointed while reading a book by Carol J. Post, but this story was especially satisfying. Brandi's discovery of her birth mother's journal offered a touching explanation that should heal her hurting heart! I recommend Defending the Innocent Target to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense.

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

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

From medical secretary to court reporter to property manager to owner of a special events decorating company, my resume reads as if I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. But one thing that has remained constant through the years is my love for writing. I currently pen fun and fast-paced inspirational romance and romantic suspense stories. My books have won several awards and been nominated for two RITA® awards and an RT Reviewers’ Choice Best Book Award.

After spending most of my life in Florida, a few years ago, I moved to the mountains of North Carolina, where I write my stories outside on the back deck in the summertime and inside in front of the fireplace in the wintertime. When I’m not writing or doing writerly things, I enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking—almost anything outdoors. My two grown daughters and grandkids live too far away for my liking, so I now pour all that nurturing into taking care of two sassy black cats.

Learn more by visiting Carol J. Post's Website

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Canine Defense

Book 1: Searching for Evidence

Book 2: Sniffing Out Justice

Book 3: Uncovering the Truth

Book 4: Witness Safeguard Mission

Book 5: Defending the Innocent Target

Detecting Deadly Threats (K-9 Search and Rescue, 16)

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