Monday, September 30, 2013

The Nurse's Secret Suitor by Cheryl Wyatt (Review)

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
The Nurse's Secret Suitor
Love Inspired (October 1, 2013)
by
Cheryl Wyatt


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Not even Cheryl Wyatt’s closest friends would dream that this sweet, shy intercessor plots mayhem during announcements at church. She is a Registered Nurse turned stay-at-home-mom, wife and writer who loves Jesus with all of her heart.

Joyful chaos rules her home, and she delights in the stealth moments God gives her to write. She stays active in her church and in her laundry room. She is convinced that having been born on a Naval base on Valentines Day destined her to write Inspirational Military Romance.

Cheryl loves to laugh and to make others laugh, so she often plans comedic moments for her defenseless characters in spite of their grumbling. She says it’s payback for when they refuse to obey the plots she’s set out before them.

Prior to publication, six of Cheryl’s manuscripts placed in ten RWA Contests. Two of Cheryl’s stories also placed First in ACFW’s Noble Theme Contest 2005 (Contemporary Romance Category), as well as ACFW‘s Genesis Contest 2006 (Mystery/Suspense/Thriller Category).

She currently writes for Love Inspired. Her Wings of Refuge Series, about a team of USAF Pararescue Jumpers and the ladies who capture their hearts, can be purchased anywhere books are sold.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Strong-Willed Heart Trauma nurse Kate Dalton can handle any challenge—except love. The combat veteran dreams of settling down, but heartbreak is one risk she won't take. Then a chance encounter opens her heart to a masked stranger…who might not be a stranger after all! Caleb Landis, the army medic behind the disguise, has always admired Kate, even though she only saw him as her best friend's brother. What will it take for Kate to discard her fears and discover the man she's always hoped to unmask? Eagle Point Emergency: Saving lives—and losing their hearts— in a small Illinois town

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Nurse's Secret Suitor, go HERE.

My Review:

I loved this book. I have read all of this author's books and they are all great. They are Christian military contemporary romance books. This book is part of a series but can stand alone. Of course they mean more read in order because some of the characters repeat in the background. This book focuses on Kate and Caleb's story. Kate is at a wedding with a masquerade party. She takes a phone call that upsets her. Her mother called to tell her she is divorcing her father. Out of nowhere comes a man in disguise. He makes her feel better. She does not know until the end of the book that it is Caleb. He reappears when she needs him while Caleb is involved in her life too. She starts to fall for Caleb but does not like that he is active duty military and she's retired. The story captivated me and I read it in one day. The author did a good job with the characters, setting, and plot. I can't wait to read more books in this series. Highly Recommended. :)

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Made to Last by Melissa Tagg (Review)

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Made to Last
Bethany House Publishers (September 15, 2013)
by
Melissa Tagg


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word From The Author:

I’m a former reporter turned author who loves all things funny and romancey. My debut novel, a romantic comedy titled Made to Last, releases from Bethany House in September 2013. In addition to my nonprofit day job, I’m also the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft and coaching community for novelists.

It all started when my dad, at the ripe old age of sixteen, picked up my mom up for their first date. She was thirteen. Thirteen!* Dad drove a cherry red car up the lane to my grandparents big ol’ green house and honked his horn…whereupon Mom jumped out of the apple tree she’d been waiting in and off they went…fishing. True story. (I’d give more details, but I’m saving it for a novella I plan to entitle Two Leaves. Mom, I really hope you read this.)

Four years of college, a few trips abroad and a stint as a reporter later, that dream is soon to be a reality. My debut novel, a romantic comedy titled Made to Last, is now out from Bethany House. Book two, Here to Stay, comes out on May 1, 2014.

In between writing and staring out the window brainstorming, I also work as a grant-writer at one of Iowa’s largest private nonprofits and serve as the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft and coaching community for novelists founded by Susan May Warren.

And I love, love, love talking about finding our purpose and identity in Christ. (And well, okay, food, old movies, boots and scarves, my awesome nephew Ollie, and, fine, Tim Tebow, too.)

ABOUT THE BOOK

Miranda Woodruff has it all. At least, that's how it looks when she's starring in her homebuilding television show, From the Ground Up. So when her network begins to talk about making cuts, she'll do anything to boost ratings and save her show--even if it means pretending to be married to a man who's definitely not the fiance who ran out on her three years ago.

When a handsome reporter starts shadowing Miranda's every move, all his digging into her personal life brings him a little too close to the truth--and to her. Can the girl whose entire identity is wrapped up in her on-screen persona finally find the nerve to set the record straight? And if she does, will the life she's built come crashing down just as she's found a love to last?

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Made to Last, go HERE.

My Review:

I enjoyed reading this cute Christian contemporary romance book. It did not read like a debut book. The characters and plot were well developed and interesting. Miranda discovers that lies always catch up with you. She lies about her so called husband on TV for her show then when ratings tank the producers want her to bring him out. They end up hiring somebody to pretend to be him for awhile. A reporter gets assigned to the show especially Miranda and starts snooping around. In the process Miranda and him fall in real love. Her ex fiancé she thinks she still loves shows up out of the blue. There are many hilarious moments among the serious. Recommended for fans of this genre.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Raw Edge by Sandra Bricker

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Raw Edge
Abingdon Press (September 17, 2013)
by
Sandra D. Bricker


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

For more than a decade, Sandra D. Bricker lived in Los Angeles. While honing her chosen craft of screenwriting in every spare moment, she worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved across the country to take on a new role: Caregiver.

The Big 5-OH! was released by Abingdon Press in the Spring of 2010, and the novel was very well-received, garnering a couple of nibbles from Hollywood.

Always the Baker, Never the Bride was released by Abingdon Press in September 2010. With its phenomenal reviews, the novel spawned a series of three more books based on the popular cast of characters at The Tanglewood Inn, a wedding destination hotel in historic Roswell, Georgia. The series cemented Sandie's spot in publishing as a flagship author of Laugh-Out-Loud romantic comedy for the inspirational market.

"Being allowed to combine my faith and my humor with my writing dream," says Bricker, "well, that's the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"

ABOUT THE BOOK

Grayson McDonough has no use for teal ribbons, 5k runs, or ovarian cancer support groups now that his beautiful wife Jenna is gone. But their nine-year-old daughter Sadie seems to need the connection. When Annabelle Curtis, the beautiful cancer survivor organizing the memory quilt project for the Ovacome support group, begins to bring out the silly and fun side of his precious daughter again, Gray must set aside his own grief to support the healing of Sadie’s young heart. But is there hope for Gray’s heart too along the way?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Raw Edge, go HERE.

Watch the book trailer:

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Stranded by Dani Pettrey (Review)




  • Series: Alaskan Courage (Book 3)
  • Paperback: 352 pages

  • Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (September 1, 2013)

  • ISBN-13: 978-0764209840



  • When her friend vanishes from a cruise ship, reporter Darcy St. James isn't satisfied with their explanation that she simply left her job of her own accord. Something isn't lining up, and Darcy believes the only way to find the truth is to put herself in Abby's position. Within days, Darcy learns her friend wasn't the only person to disappear mysteriously. Last summer, a woman vanished under almost identical circumstances.

    Gage McKenna has taken a summer-long stint leading adventure excursions for the passengers of various cruise lines that dock for a few days of sightseeing. He's surprised to find Darcy working aboard one of the ships, investigating a troubling report. Something sinister is going on and the deeper they dig the more Gage fears they've only discovered the tip of the iceberg.

    My Review:

    I loved this book. It is book three in the Alaskan Courage series. I recommend reading the books in order. If not there is some history between the characters especially Darcy and Gage that you will be missing. I enjoyed reading all the books. I read this book in one day. It captured my attention and I could not put it down. I loved Darcy and Gage from the previous books and was excited to see them get their own book. The whole McKenna family is pretty special. The author did a good job with the plot details and the mystery/suspense part. Abby and Darcy have known each other since college so when Abby calls and asks for help Darcy comes running. When she gets there she sees Abby briefly before she goes missing. Darcy is there as a journalist writing an article on the new adventure excursions the cruise line came up with to make customers happy. Gage and his family own a company that specializes in outdoor excursions. Circumstances throw Darcy and Gage back together again. The tension and attraction is still there. I loved how their relationship develops. In the end it takes the whole family to solve the mystery and stay alive. The conclusion was great and there were a few twists and turns. This is my favorite genre, Christian romantic suspense and this book does not disappoint. Highly Recommended. :)








    Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves-the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of one's faith and plenty of romance. She's a huge fan of dark chocolate, is always in search of the best iced mocha and her dream is to one day own a little cottage on a remote stretch of beach. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two teenage daughters. Visit her web site at www.DaniPettrey.com

    Fired Up by Mary Connealy

    This week, the
    Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
    is introducing
    Fired Up
    (Bethany House March 1,
    by
    Mary Connealy


    ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

    Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.

    The Lassoed in Texas Series, Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.

    The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist.

    Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.

    The Sophie's Daughters series. Doctor in Petticoats, Wrangler in Petticoats, Sharpshooter in Petticoats.

    She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, Nosy in Nebraska, a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she's one of the three authors contributing to Alaska Brides with her Carol Award Winning historical romance Golden Days.

    ABOUT THE BOOK

    Rollicking Wild West Adventure and Romance from Bestselling Author Mary Connealy

    Dare Riker is a doctor who saves lives, but someone seems determined to end his. It may have something to do with the traitors he dealt with during the Civil War, or it might be related to the recent incident with Flint Greer and the ranch. Whoever the culprit is, he or she seems really fired up, and Dare can't let his guard down for a moment, which is a challenge, since right now he's trying to win the heart of the recently widowed Glynna.

    Glynna Greer came west as a mail-order bride and ended up in a bad situation. Now her husband, Flint, is dead, and she's determined to care for her son and daughter on her own. She wants to believe Dare Riker is as decent as he seems, but she's terrified to lock herself into another marriage. She plans to support her small family by opening a diner--never mind that cooking is not her greatest talent. The men in Broken Wheel, Texas, are so desperate for home cooking that they seem willing to overlook dried-out beef and blackened biscuits.

    Glynna can't help but notice that danger follows Dare wherever he goes. There's the avalanche. And then the fire. But things really get out of hand when someone plunges a knife from Glynna's diner into Dare's back. Are Flint's cronies still plotting revenge? Is Glynna's son engaged in a misguided attempt to protect his mother? Is a shadowy outsider still enraged over past injustices? And can Dare survive long enough to convince Glynna to take another chance on love?

    If you would like to read the first chapter of Fired Up, go HERE.

    Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta (Review)

    This week, the
    Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
    is introducing
    Born of Persuasion
    Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (September 1, 2013)
    by
    Jessica Dotta


    ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

    Born in the wrong century–except for the fact that she really likes epidurals and washing machines–Jessica Dotta writes British Historicals with the humor like an Austen, yet the drama of a Bronte.

    She resides lives in the greater Nashville area—where she imagines her small Southern town into the foggy streets of 19th century London. She oversees her daughter to school, which they pretend is an English boarding school, and then she goes home to write and work on PR. Jessica has tried to cast her dachshund as their butler–but the dog insists it’s a Time Lord and their home a Tardis. Miss Marple, her cat, says its no mystery to her as to why the dog won’t cooperate. When asked about it, Jessica sighs and says that you can’t win them all, and at least her dog has picked something British to emulate.

    ABOUT THE BOOK

    The year is 1838, and seventeen-year-old Julia Elliston’s position has never been more fragile. Orphaned and unmarried in a time when women are legal property of their fathers, husbands, and guardians, she finds herself at the mercy of an anonymous guardian who plans to establish her as a servant in far-off Scotland.

    With two months to devise a better plan, Julia’s first choice to marry her childhood sweetheart is denied. But when a titled dowager offers to introduce Julia into society, a realm of possibilities opens. However, treachery and deception are as much a part of Victorian society as titles and decorum, and Julia quickly discovers her present is deeply entangled with her mother’s mysterious past. Before she knows what’s happening, Julia finds herself a pawn in a deadly game between two of the country’s most powerful men. With no laws to protect her, she must unravel the secrets on her own. But sometimes truth is elusive and knowledge is deadly.

    If you would like to read the first chapter of Born of Persuasion, go HERE.

    My Review:

    Overall I liked this book. There were some good and some bad. The great include the way the author's writing took you back to 1838 England. I liked the feel of the book which was a little Gothic. I liked the plot and there were several twists and turns. At over 400 pages the book felt too long especially since it is the first book in the trilogy. There was some repetition in scenes that was a little annoying. The main character Julia goes back and forth so many times I lost count over Edward and Mr. Macy. The premise was interesting and kept me reading. The ending was abrupt and just cuts off the story. The second book in the series is previewed at the end so I know it will pick up. I do not see how this will be a trilogy. I will reserve judgment until I read the next book. Unfortunately we will have to wait a year. Recommended to readers who like this type of book.



    Jessica Dotta has always been fascinated by England during the Regency and Victorian era. Her passion for British Literature fueled her desire to write in a style that blends the humor of Jane Austen and the dark drama of a Bronte sister. She lives in the Nashville area with her family and works as a freelance media consultant and publicist.

    Sunday, September 15, 2013

    Dangerous Passage by Lisa Harris (Review)





  • Series: Southern Crimes (Book 1)

  • Paperback: 320 pages

  • Publisher: Revell (September 1, 2013)

  • ISBN-13: 978-0800721909



  • When two Jane Does are killed on the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia, detective and behavioral specialist Avery North discovers they share something in common--a tattoo of a magnolia on their shoulders. Suspecting a serial killer, Avery joins forces with medical examiner Jackson Bryant to solve the crimes and prevent another murder. But it doesn't take long for them to realize that there is much more to the case than meets the eye. As they venture deep into a sinister world of human trafficking, Avery and Jackson are taken to the very edge of their abilities--and their hearts.

    "Dangerous Passage "exposes a fully-realized and frightening world where every layer peeled back reveals more challenges ahead. Romantic suspense fans will be hooked from the start by Lisa Harris's first installment of the new Southern Crimes series.

    My Review:

    I thought this was an okay Christian romantic suspense book. It did not have enough development in the characters or plot. I did not feel involved. It did not feel like a first book in a series but like a second. When the book begins it felt like I was supposed to already know what's going on. Even when Jackson came into the picture it felt like we were missing some details.  It had a lot of potential as far as characters and plot. The faith element was ok. I want to read the next book in the series to see if it gets better. This is my favorite genre. Not recommended unless you want an okay read.






    Lisa Harris is a Christy Award finalist and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 from Romantic Times. The author of more than twenty books, Harris and her family have spent over eight years living as missionaries in Mozambique, where she homeschools, leads a women's group, and runs a non-profit organization that works alongside their church-planting ministry. Visit www.lisaharriswrites.com for more.

    Available at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group
    Review copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.

    Critical Pursuit by Janice Cantore (Review)





  • Paperback: 384 pages

  • Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (August 16, 2013)

  • ISBN-13: 978-1414375533



  • Officer Brinna Caruso has built a reputation at the precinct as the cop to call when a child goes missing. For Brinna, it’s personal because she was once one of them. Brinna and her K-9 search and rescue dog, Hero, will stop at nothing to find a missing child, no matter the stakes.

    Detective Jack O’Reilly isn’t ready to return to his homicide duties, after losing his wife to a drunk driver. He’s on the downside of his career, and bent on revenge, when he’s assigned as Brinna’s partner. While on patrol, Jack struggles between his quest for personal justice and his responsibility to those around him, especially his partner.

    Skeptical of Jack’s motives, Brinna isn’t sure she can rely on her new partner, whose reckless abandon endangers the safety of those around him. But when a man surfaces with an MO similar to the criminal who abducted Brinna twenty years earlier, Brinna and Jack must cast aside previous judgments and combine efforts to catch the kidnapper, and finally allow Brinna the peace stolen from her as a child.


    My Review:

    This was another great police drama from this author. It is the start to a new series featuring cop Brinna Caruso. Brinna is a little hard to relate with at first but she grows on you. She has been through some rough times including being kidnapped and found as a child. Her father is a bad alcoholic and she does not have a good relationship with him. She is not really connected to her mother or brother either. Jack lost his wife and child and has been hanging out at a desk in the department he used to be a detective. The author always does a good job with descriptions so you can picture the characters and setting in your head. The only thing I did not like was the way Jack changed from miserable questioning everything to happy Christian man again. It happened too quick without enough details. I can't wait for the next book in this series. I look forward to getting to know these characters more and see Jack and Brinna hopefully develop a romance. ;) Recommended.







    A retired Long Beach California police officer of 22 years (16 in uniform and 6 as a non-career officer), Janice Cantore worked a variety of assignments, patrol, administration, juvenile investigations and training. During the course of her career in uniform Janice found that faith was indispensable to every aspect of the job and published articles on faith at work, one for a quarterly newspaper called "Cop and Christ", and another for the monthly magazine "Today's Christian Woman".

    With retirement Janice began to write longer pieces and several novels were born. Janice is excited and honored to now be a part of the Tyndale Publishing House family. Accused, the first installment in her new suspense offering, The Pacific Coast Justice Series, was released February 1, 2012 and kicked off a brand new chapter in her writing career. In addition to suspense and action, her books feature strong female leads. Janice writes suspense novels designed to keep you engrossed and leave you inspired.

    Review copy provided by Tyndale Publisher in exchange for an honest review.

    Wednesday, September 11, 2013

    Shades of Mercy by Anita Lustrea and Caryn Rivendara

    This week, the
    Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
    is introducing
    Shades of Mercy
    River North; New Edition edition (September 1, 2013)
    by
    Anita Lustrea
    and
    Caryn Rivendara


    ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

    Authentic. That’s the word heard over and over when women describe Anita Lustrea. She is a popular speaker at women’s conferences and retreats, and an amazing communicator as co-host of the award winning Midday Connection radio broadcast. Her deep desire is to communicate freedom to women and help them nurture and care for their soul. Anita is the co-author of “Come to Our Table: A Midday Connection Cookbook” and “Daily Seeds from Women Who Walk in Faith”, a Devotional for women. Her first solo venture as an author releases in November, 2010, “What Women Tell Me: finding freedom from the secrets we keep.” Anita and her husband, Mike Murphy, a pastor, along with her teenage son John live in the Chicago suburbs. When she’s not traveling or speaking, you can find her reading and drinking a venti hot tea at her local Starbucks.

    *******

    Caryn is a sought-after writer and speaker. She’s the author of four books—Shades of Mercy: A Maine Chronicle (River North, September 2013), Known & Loved: 52 Devotions from the Psalms (Revell, April 2013), Grumble Hallelujah (Tyndale House, September 2011), and Mama’s Got a Fake I.D. (WaterBrook Press, March 2009)–and a regular contributor to Christianity Today’s Her.Meneutics as well as columnist for Re:Frame Media’s ThinkChristian blog. She has written dozens of magazine article. Her work has appeared in such publications as Christianity Today, Relevant, FamilyLife, and Engineering and Mining Journal (you read that right). Caryn leads workshops and speaks at conferences and church groups across the country. She’s also a regular guest on Moody Radio’s Midday Connection with Anita Lustrea and Melinda Schmidt and has been featured on such radio shows as The John and Kathy Show, Changing Worldviews/WOMANTalk with Sharon Hughes, I Thought She Said with Faith Daly, The Paul Edwards Program with Paul Edwards, and Talk from the Heart with Rich Buhler, among many others. Caryn also appeared on The Harvest Show. Caryn earned a B.A. in English from Calvin College and attended the University of Chicago’s publishing program. She lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with her husband, Rafael, her three kids, a rescued pit bull terrier, two hermit crabs, and several tank fulls of who-knows-what-kind-of fish. Caryn and her family are members of Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church in Elmhurst, Illinois, where Caryn recently joined the worship staff.
    ABOUT THE BOOK

    It's 1954 and the world-even the far Northwoods of Maine-is about to change. But that change can't happen soon enough for fourteen-year-old Mercy Millar. Long tired of being the "son" her father never had, Mercy's ready for the world to embrace her as the young woman she is-as well as embrace the forbidden love she feels. When childhood playmates grow up and fall in love, the whole community celebrates. But in the case of Mercy and Mick, there would be no celebration. Instead their relationship must stay hidden. Good girls do not date young men from the Maliseet tribe. At least, not in Watsonville, Maine. When racial tensions escalate and Mick is thrown in jail under suspicion of murder, Mercy nearly loses all hope-in love, in her father, and in God himself.

    If you would like to read the first chapter of Shades of Mercy, go HERE.

    Tuesday, September 10, 2013

    Eventide by Shelley Shepard Gray (Review)








  • Series: The Days of Redemption

  • Paperback: 288 pages

  • Publisher: Avon Inspire (September 3, 2013)

  • ISBN-13: 978-0062204448




  • A young Amish woman harbors a difficult secret. Does she dare share the truth with the man she hopes to marry?

    Elsie Keim doesn't want to be left behind. Her twin sister, Viola, and her older brother, Roman, have both found love and are building lives of their own. But Elsie? She's still stuck at home, being treated like a child. No one seems to consider her a capable woman—all they see are the thick lenses of her glasses, constant reminders that Elsie suffers from keratoconus and is slowly going blind.

    Elsie knows there's much more to her than her disease. That's why when a new neighbor, Landon Troyer, shows some interest in her, she doesn't want anything to scare him away . . . even if it means keeping her condition a secret.

    Landon is ready to start a new life and feels like Elsie may just be the right woman to start it with. But when Roman steps in and shares the truth about Elsie's illness, Landon is floored. His job is demanding and takes him away from home, sometimes for days at a time. How could he keep up with his responsibilities and take care of Elsie?

    A riveting conclusion to the Days of Redemption series, Eventide reveals the power of love to illuminate even the darkest paths and how faith, family, and forgiveness can forge through any obstacle.

    My Review:

    I loved this book. This is the third book in the Days of Redemption series and they really need to be read in order to understand the family history. The whole family is in this book. Elsie Keim stands out in this book. She is going blind and has been for ten years. Her family is very overprotective. Landon moves in next door and she starts to hope her life might be different and she might have a husband and family one day like her brother and twin sister. In the Amish world this is very important although her family makes it clear to her that they will always take care of her. There is conclusion to the other family member's plot lines too. My attention was captured from the beginning and I could not read fast enough. I really enjoyed this Amish book. Highly Recommend the whole series. :)




    Shelley Shepard Gray lives in southern Ohio and writes full-time. A busy wife and mother of two, she spends her days writing and keeping track of her two teens. Shelley enjoys writing about the Amish and visits Amish communities in Adams and Holmes counties several times a year. When not spending time with her family or writing, she serves on several committees in her church
    .http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com.

    Review copy provided by Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.


    Monday, September 9, 2013

    Unforeseeable by Nancy Mehl

    This week, the
    Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
    is introducing
    Unforeseeable
    Bethany House Publishers (September 1, 2013)
    by
    Nancy Mehl


    ABOUT THE AUTHOR:



    Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband Norman and their dog, Watson. She’s authored thirteen books and is currently at work on her newest series for Bethany House Publishing.

    All of Nancy’s novels have an added touch – something for your spirit as well as your soul. “I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing,” Nancy says. “It’s a part of me and of everything I think or do. God is number one in my life. I wouldn’t be writing at all if I didn’t believe that this is what He’s called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan especially for your life, and there is nothing you can’t overcome with His help.”

    She and her husband attend Believer’s Tabernacle in Wichita.

    ABOUT THE BOOK

    Mystery, Romance, and Suspense Seamlessly Combined in a Mennonite Small-Town Setting Callie Hoffman knows she has a good life in Kingdom, Kansas. She's thrilled to be engaged to Levi Housler, the new pastor of Kingdom Mennonite Church, and she spends her days working with her friend and soon-to-be sister-in-law, Lizzie Housler, at Cora's Cafe. However, Callie's idyllic life is interrupted when a body is discovered on the road outside Kingdom and the deceased turns out to be a victim of a serial killer. As Washington County's new sheriff begins questioning Kingdom residents, Callie and the rest of the town are appalled at the prospect of a killer among them. The very reason Kingdom exists is to protect the people from the temptations and dangers of the outside world, but all the town founders' attempts to plan ahead couldn't prevent a threat like this. Unsettled at this unforeseen danger, Callie is concerned when it appears Levi knows more than he's telling. Desperate to find answers for herself, Callie never expected that she'd have to face some of her own past's skeletons. As Callie and the residents of Kingdom fear this danger for which they never planned, they must learn anew that only God knows the future and their trust must always lie in Him.

    If you would like to read the first chapter of Unforeseeable, go HERE.

    Sunday, September 8, 2013

    The Promise by Dan Walsh and Gary Smalley (Review)







  • Series: The Restoration Series (Book 2)

  • Paperback: 304 pages

  • Publisher: Revell (September 1, 2013)

  • ISBN-13: 978-0800721497




  • One home, two hearts, and the power of a promise kept . . . For the last five months, Tom Anderson has been without a job, a fact he's been hiding from his wife Jean--and everyone else. He leaves each morning, pretending nothing has changed, and spends his disheartening day rotating through coffee shops and the library, using their wifi to search job listings online. The stress of keeping this secret is beginning to put serious strain on his marriage.

    But Tom's not the only one hiding something. Jean Anderson has a secret of her own--one that will seriously complicate their situation. Will the promises they made on their wedding day hold firm?

    My Review:

    I thought this was an okay contemporary Christian fiction book. It was simple and easy to read. Although the plot was very predictable it was still a good story. Parts of it were depressing since it took most of the book for Tom to get caught in his ruse. He lost his job five months ago and his uncle is the one who caught him working at the coffee shop or he would have kept fooling everyone until the bank took the house or cars. I felt bad for his wife too since he was treating her so bad on top of lying to her. There were good life lessons to be learned in the book. One is the truth always comes out. Also generational curses can be broken. We do not have to be like our parents. In this case it is the fathers who have a big lesson to learn. This is book two in  the Restoration Series and continues to follow the same family. I only felt a little lost as the first book contains the story of Tom's mother and father. Recommended.






    Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of several books, including The Dance with Gary Smalley, The Discovery, and The Reunion. He has won three Carol Awards, and two of his novels were finalists for RT Reviews Inspirational Book of the Year for 2011 and 2012. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Dan served as a pastor for 25 years. He lives with his wife in the Daytona Beach area, where he's busy researching and writing his next novel.

    Gary Smalley is one of the country's best-known authors and speakers on family relationships and has appeared on national television programs such as Oprah, Larry King Live, and TODAY, as well as numerous national radio programs. He is the bestselling and award-winning author or coauthor of many books, including the Baxter Family Redemption series with Karen Kingsbury and The Dance with Dan Walsh. Gary and his wife Norma have been married for 49 years and live in Missouri.

    Review copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.

    Available August 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

    Thursday, September 5, 2013

    Trapped by Irene Hannon (Review)



  • Series: Private Justice (Book 2)

  • Paperback: 400 pages

  • Publisher: Revell (September 1, 2013)

  • ISBN-13: 978-0800721244



  • When librarian Laura Griffith's sixteen-year-old sister disappears on a frigid February day, leaving only a brief note behind, Laura resolves to do whatever it takes to track down the runaway teen. That includes recruiting ATF agent turned PI James "Dev" Devlin to help. But the deeper he digs, the more he begins to suspect that something sinister is at work in the girl's disappearance. And the closer he gets to uncovering the truth, the clearer it becomes that the situation isn't just dangerous--it's deadly.

    Chilling and at times terrifying, Trapped is the latest thrilling read from Irene Hannon, the queen of romantic suspense. Hannon outdoes herself with this fast-paced tale of fear, deception, and just the right dose of romance.

    My Review:

    I thought this was another good Christian romantic suspense book. This author does a great job with this genre. This was book two in the Private Justice series. This book focused on Devlin who is now a PI. When Laura's teenager half sister runs away she knows she needs extra help to find her. There is suspense throughout the book. We know who the bad guy is pretty early but it works in the story. The romance between Laura and Dev is secondary but there. The characters and plot were interesting and well written. Looking forward to reading the last book in the series. Recommended.





    Irene Hannon is the author of more than 40 novels, including Vanished and the bestselling Heroes of Quantico and Guardians of Justice series. Her books have been honored with two coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, a Carol Award, a HOLT Medallion, a Daphne du Maurier Award, and two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. Booklist also included one of her novels in its "Top 10 Inspirational Fiction" list for 2011. She lives in Missouri.
    For more information about her and her books, Irene invites you to visit her website at www.irenehannon.com or to stop by her Facebook page.

    Review copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.

    Available August 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

    Wednesday, September 4, 2013

    Threads of Change by Jodi Barrows

    This week, the
    Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
    is introducing
    Threads of Change
    River North; New Edition edition (July 1, 2013)
    by
    Jodi Barrows


    ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Over the past twenty years, Jodi has remarkably touched thousands of quilters throughout the world with her unique method called Square in a Square®. Her point of view provides the quilter with the freedom to create most any quilt design with speed and accuracy.

    Jodi has spoken to quilting audiences throughout the United States, Canada, Australia, Italy and S. Africa. She has appeared as a guest on several quilting shows, including TNN’s Aleene’s Creative Living, TNN’s Your Home Studio, Perfecting Patchwork on Family Net TV and a pbs series with Kaye Wood.

    Jodi was raised in southwest Kansas, has two grown sons, and is married to Steve, her high school sweetheart.

    ABOUT THE BOOK

    Conflict develops in the South,

    Four granddaughters travel into uncertainty,

    And Grandfather sells their precious home.

    In the first book of A Quilting Story series, the four cousins-with social graces, charm, and a love for quilting-will face the anguish of life on the frontier in 1856 with every turn along the wagon trail. Raging storms and adversities hit the small band of travelers. Relieved to finally arrive at the abandoned military post at Fort Worth, Texas, they begin the hard work of establishing a new home. When trials follow them, they must decide to become true warriors of their hearts, minds, and souls or fall to the sufferings of prairie life.

    Join the four women on a passage of friendship, love, and self-discovery as lives are mended around the quilting frame.

    If you would like to read the first chapter of Threads of Change, go HERE.

    Monday, September 2, 2013

    On Distant Shores by Sarah Sundin (Review)




  • Series: Wings of the Nightingale (Book 2)
  • Paperback: 432 pages

  • Publisher: Revell (August 1, 2013)

  • ISBN-13: 978-0800720827


  • Lt. Georgiana Taylor has everything she could want. A comfortable boyfriend back home, a loving family, and a challenging job as a flight nurse. But in July 1943, Georgie's cozy life gets decidedly more complicated when she meets pharmacist Sgt. John Hutchinson. Hutch resents the lack of respect he gets as a noncommissioned serviceman and hates how the war keeps him from his fiancĂ©e. While Georgie and Hutch share a love of the starry night skies over Sicily, their lives back home are falling apart. Can they weather the hurt and betrayal? Or will the pressures of war destroy the fragile connection they've made?

    With her signature attention to detail and her talent for bringing characters together, Sarah Sundin pens another exciting tale in her series featuring WWII flight nurses. Fans new and old will find in On Distant Shores the perfect combination of emotion, action, and romance.

    My Review:

    I loved this book. Even though it is the second in the Wings of the Nightingale series it can be read alone. I think it is my favorite of all this author's books I have read and I liked them all. I fell in love with Georgie and Hutch. The story held my attention from the beginning and I read it in one day. The characters and plot came alive. The author did a good job making you feel like you are actually there without overwhelming you with historical details. I could see it play out in my head. Georgie and Hutch face a variety of issues that could overwhelm anybody and they are part of the WWII effort. He is not an officer even though he is a Pharmacist. She is a flight nurse and an officer. I liked the spiritual aspect and how it was done just right not preachy. There were also some twists that I did not expect but it ended up okay. Great WWII Christian historical fiction book. Highly Recommended. :)




    Sarah Sundin is the author of "With Every Letter" and the Wings of Glory series. In 2011, A "Memory Between Us" was a finalist in the Inspirational Reader's Choice Awards, and Sarah received the Writer of the Year Award at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. A graduate of UC San Francisco School of Pharmacy, she works on call as a hospital pharmacist. During WWII, her grandfather served as a pharmacist's mate (medic) in the Navy and her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children.

    Visit www.sarahsundin.com for more information.

    Review copy provided by Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.

    Sunday, September 1, 2013

    “On Distant Shores” Weekend Getaway Giveaway and 9/3 Facebook Party

    Sarah Sundin is celebrating the release of her latest novel, On Distant Shores, with a Romantic Weekend Getaway giveaway!

    On-Distant-Shores-rafflecopter

      One grand prize winner will receive:
    • A $200 Visa Cash Card (good for a perfect couple's getaway)
    • With Every Letter and On Distant Shores by Sarah Sundin
    Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on September 2nd. Winner will be announced September 3rd at the "On Distant Shores" Author Chat Party on Facebook. During the party Sarah will be hosting a book chat, testing your trivia skills, announcing the winner of the Weekend Getaway, and giving away a ton of books, gift certificates, and more. Oh, and she'll also be giving party goers an exclusive look at the next book in the Wings of the Nightingale series.

    So grab your copy of On Distant Shores and join Sarah on the evening of September 3rd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)

    DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE FUN; RSVP TODAY. HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 3rd!

    Classics Club Spin 18

    My Classics Club Spin List for August This is a hodgepodge of books left on my list I made in 2017 for the Classics Club. Tomorrow the clu...