Archive | May, 2016

#BookReview: Through the Shadows | 5 Book #Giveaway

31 May

Through the Shadows

Through the Shadows by Karen Barnett

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1qqMTsB

As San Francisco rises from the ashes, an age-old battle looms between corruption and the promise of new beginnings.

The devastating earthquake is just two years past, but the city of San Francisco is still trying to recover. Destruction of this magnitude is not so easy to overcome—and neither are the past regrets shadowing Elizabeth King’s hopeful future.

Hoping to right her wrongs, Elizabeth dedicates herself to helping girls rescued from slavery in Chinatown brothels, even if it means putting her own life at risk to sneak through the gloomy alleys and rooftops where dangers lurk.

Putting her life on the line for a worthy cause is admirable. But opening her heart is even more terrifying. So when Elizabeth meets attorney, Charles McKinley—a man who dreams of reforming San Francisco’s crooked politics—Elizabeth begins to doubt: Can she maintain her pretense and hide her past? Or will her secret jeopardize both their futures?

 

My thoughts:

“Chains bind the body, but music sets the heart free.”

Through the Shadows is a captivating story! Karen Barnett is a master storyteller, bringing her stories to life with excellent characterization, vivid imagery, and rich historical details. She deftly expresses the feelings and emotions of her characters, and I loved experiencing Elizabeth and Charles’s journeys. I was also thrilled to revisit beloved characters from the two previous books in the Golden Gate Chronicles.

Dramatic and emotional, Through the Shadows completely engaged me from beginning to end! I loved this story and reveled in the beauty of the spiritual messages woven through its pages. Once again, Karen Barnett has penned an exceptional story that is not to be missed!

 

Click the image below to enter to win a copy of Through the Shadows—five winners will be chosen! The winners will be announced June 7 on Karen’s blog!

Through the Shadows Giveaway

 

Karen Barnett

Karen Barnett is the author of Beyond the Ashes, Out of the Ruins, and Mistaken. Named the 2013 Writer of Promise by Oregon Christian Writers, Karen lives in Albany, Oregon, with her husband and two kids. When she’s not writing novels, she loves speaking at women’s events, libraries, and book clubs.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

 

 

Through the Shadows

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.  All thoughts expressed are my own.  Click here to read what other bloggers are saying about Through the Shadows. 

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#BookReview: The Quieting by Suzanne Woods Fisher

30 May

The Quieting

The Quieting by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1UpvPxH

The Stoltzfus family faces serious problems, both in the church and at home. Everyone in the community expects minister David Stoltzfus to fix things–fast. But David doesn’t work fast. He prefers to wait for God to work in individual hearts. However, even he is left wondering if the solution to their most pressing problem might be a Quieting.

When David’s mother arrives, uninvited, more upheaval is in store. She has matchmaking plans for everyone in the family, including David and her eligible granddaughters–and especially for David’s niece Abigail. When Abigail stumbles onto a curious connection during her genealogical research, it could help David solve one problem–but will it create another?

 

My thoughts:

The Quieting is a great story! Suzanne Woods Fisher welcomes readers back to Stoney Ridge in this second installment of The Bishop’s Family series. While The Quieting continues a story line that began in Book 1, The Imposter, it can easily be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel.

As problems continue to plague the church and community, David Stoltzfus struggles to find the right solutions. I really enjoyed David’s journey, as well as the relationship that developed between his niece Abigail and Dane Glick. Fisher brings this story to life with memorable characters, an engaging plot, and wonderful wit and wisdom. I delight in spending time in the quaint community of Stoney Ridge and look forward to returning as the series continues!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

 

The Quieting graphic

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#BookReview: Silence in the Dark

27 May

Silence in the Dark

Silence in the Dark by Patricia Bradley

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/25mzQrW

Bailey Adams is running for her life . . . again.

When Bailey Adams left Logan Point two years ago she thought she was getting away from her problems. Running into her ex-fiancé Danny Maxwell was not part of the plan–neither was being chased through the city by the local drug cartel, the Calatrava. Now despite her best efforts, Danny is her only chance of escaping the people chasing her and getting back to Logan Point safely. Can Bailey find the strength to face what’s coming? And in the midst of the chaos, can she keep herself from falling in love with her rescuer all over again?

 

My thoughts:

Silence in the Dark is an intriguing tale! Patricia Bradley takes readers from Mexico to Mississippi in a fast-paced story of suspense and second chances.

The action and adventure start on the first page and continue until the very end! The diverse cast of characters kept me engaged, and I enjoyed the relationships that developed as the story unfolded. While fans of the Logan Point series are sure to enjoy Bailey and Danny’s story, this novel can also be enjoyed independently of its predecessors.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

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#BookReview: Anchor in the Storm | Prize Pack #Giveaway

26 May

Anchor in the Storm

Anchor in the Storm by Sarah Sundin

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1YFAtJ9

For plucky Lillian Avery, America’s entry into World War II means a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. The challenges of her new job energize her. But society boy Ensign Archer Vandenberg’s attentions only annoy—even if he is her brother’s best friend.

During the darkest days of the war, Arch’s destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves—and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions for sedatives Lillian has filled? The two work together to answer that question, but can Arch ever earn Lillian’s trust and affection?

 

My thoughts:

Anchor in the Storm is a wonderful blend of history, suspense, and romance! Sarah Sundin captures the time period beautifully and crafts memorable characters who readers will champion the whole way through.

I loved Lillian and Arch and reveled in the mystery and romance of their story! It was such a pleasure to see these two grow emotionally and spiritually in their journey together. I also appreciated the meaningful inspirational messages that were woven through the narrative, creating tender and touching moments. Sundin’s pharmaceutical expertise shines and really brings the intriguing story line to life. I thoroughly enjoyed this second book in the Waves of Freedom series and can’t wait for more!

Fans of historical fiction, especially World War II buffs, are sure to enjoy Anchor in the Storm!

 

In a time of sacrifice, what price can one put on true love? Pharmacist Lillian Avery and Ensign Archer Vandenberg are about to find out in Sarah Sundin’s new book, Anchor in the Storm. During the darkest days of the war, Arch’s destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves—and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions Lillian has been filling? As the danger rises on both land and sea, the two must work together to answer that question. But can Arch ever earn Lillian’s trust and affection?

Celebrate the release of Sarah’s Anchor in the Storm by entering to win her All Hands on Deck Prize Pack!

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One grand prize winner will receive:

  • A signed copy of Anchor in the Storm
  • Nautical tote bag lined with anchor fabric
  • Anchor necklace made from copper reclaimed from the USS Constitution in Boston during restoration
  • 365 Devotions for Hope by Karen Whiting
  • Shine: Nautical Inspirational Adult Coloring Book
  • “Hope Anchors the Soul” journal
  • Set of two nautical tea towels
LF AIS full group 2

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on June 8th. The winner will be announced June 9th on Sarah’s blog.

anchor in the storm - banner

 

Sarah Sundin
Sarah Sundin is the author of Through Waters Deep, as well as Wings of the Nightingale and the Wings of Glory series. 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. Sarah lives in California.

 

 

Anchor in the Storm
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.  All thoughts expressed are my own.  Click here to read what other bloggers are saying about Anchor in the Storm. 

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#BookReview: Sins of the Past

25 May

Sins of the Past

Sins of the Past: A Romantic Suspense Novella Collection

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1XUEr2j

In Dee Henderson’s “Missing,” a Wyoming sheriff is called to Chicago when his elderly mother goes missing. Paired with a savvy Chicago cop, the two realize her disappearance is no accident, and a race against the clock begins.

Dani Pettrey returns to Alaska with “Shadowed,” introducing readers to the parents of her beloved McKenna clan. Adventure, romance, and danger collide when a young fisherman nets the body of an open-water swimming competitor who may actually be a possible Russian defector.

Lynette Eason’s “Blackout” delivers the story of a woman once implicated in a robbery gone wrong. The loot has never been found–but her memory of that night has always been unreliable. Can she remember enough to find her way to safety when the true culprit comes after her?

 

My thoughts:

Sins of the Past is a great collection! These three beloved and bestselling authors have shared engaging stories “where the past will not stay buried” and “danger will never go away”.

“Missing”- Dee Henderson kept me guessing with this novella, puzzling more over the “why” than the “who”.

“Shadowed”- I loved Dani Pettrey’s Alaskan Courage series, so I was delighted to learn more about the McKenna parents and their journey.

“Blackout”- Lynette Eason captivated me with this nail-biting suspense!

I am a fan of each of these authors, so enjoying them together in one book was a real treat! Each of their stories is uniquely told and boasts intrigue, adventure, and romance. I thoroughly enjoyed Sins of the Past and recommend this collection to fans of romantic suspense!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

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#BookReview: Traces of Guilt by Dee Henderson

24 May

Traces of Guilt

Traces of Guilt by Dee Henderson

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/25cw0BM

 

She’s turning up the heat on Carin County’s cold cases . . .

Evie Blackwell loves her life as an Illinois State Police detective . . . mostly. She’s very skilled at investigations and has steadily moved up through the ranks. She would like to find Mr. Right, but she has a hard time imagining how marriage could work, considering the demands of her job.

Gabriel Thane grew up in Carin County and is now its sheriff, a job he loves. Gabe is committed to upholding the law and cares deeply for the residents he’s sworn to protect. He too would like to find a lifetime companion, a marriage like his parents have. . . .

When Evie arrives in Carin, Illinois, it’s to help launch a new task force focused on unsolved crimes across the state. She will work with the sheriff’s department on a couple of its most troubling missing-persons cases. As she studies old evidence to pull out a few tenuous new leads, she unearths surprising connections. One way or another, she knows Gabriel Thane and his family will be key to the answers she seeks.

 

My thoughts:

Traces of Guilt is a well-crafted procedural! Dee Henderson populates this complex story with an extensive cast of characters and a myriad of details and descriptions. As multiple story lines converged, I puzzled through the cold case investigations alongside the characters and was surprised by several twists and turns. While Evie Blackwell’s crime-solving prowess is an integral part of the narrative, the Thane family was, for me, the heart of the story. I really enjoyed Traces of Guilt and am eager to read more Cold Case novels!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

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#BookReview: Someone Like You | 5 Book #Giveaway

23 May

Someone Like You

Someone Like You by Victoria Bylin

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1TPfW3k

A brand new Christian, Julia is busy trying to run her own business, spend time with her widowed mother, and raise her young son, Max, despite his father’s less-than-ideal influence on him. When a big account from her event-planning business sends her to the Caliente Springs resort, she’s shocked to come face-to-face with Zeke Monroe, the resort’s general manager and her college sweetheart.

With his faith in tatters, Zeke Monroe is determined to keep the historic Caliente Springs resort running despite financial difficulties. But when Julia walks back into his life, he can’t ignore the feelings she stirs up. As they work together on an important client’s dream wedding, the fate of the resort soon depends on their success. When Zeke and Julia are pushed to their limits both personally and professionally, will their history put up walls between them or bring them together?

 

My thoughts:

Someone Like You is a heartwarming story! Zeke and Julia are former college sweethearts who unexpectedly cross paths again. Although these two have a history, will they be able to enjoy a future together?

With likable characters, real-life drama, and sweet romance, Someone Like You is a story of second chances. I delighted in Zeke and Julia’s journey and loved the charm of Caliente Springs. It was a pleasure to visit this picturesque resort and get to know the people (and animals) that live and work there. I must say, Ladybug is an entertaining character who just might deserve a story all her own. 😉

Victoria Bylin infuses humor and heart into her novels, and I look forward to reading more!

 

Click the image below to enter to win a copy of Someone Like You—five winners will be chosen!  The winners will be announced June 1 on the Litfuse blog!

Someone Like You Giveaway

 

Victoria Bylin

Victoria Bylin writes contemporary and historical romances known for their realistic, relatable characters. Her work has finaled in contests such as the Carol Awards, the RITAs, and the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky.

 

Someone Like You
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.  All thoughts expressed are my own.  Click here to read what other bloggers are saying about Someone Like You.

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#BookReview: Her One and Only | Porter Prize Pack #Giveaway

18 May

Her One and Only

Her One and Only by Becky Wade

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1NrA4cO

After ten years in the NFL, super star Gray Fowler is accustomed to obsessive fans.

But when Gray starts receiving death threats from a stalker, his team hires an executive protection agency to guard him until the culprit is caught. Dealing with bodyguards 24/7 is a headache, especially when one of them is a young, beautiful woman. How can a female half his size possibly protect him better than he can protect himself?

Dru Porter is a former Marine, an expert markswoman, and a black belt—none of which saved her from disaster on her last assignment. In order to rebuild her tarnished reputation, she’s determined to find Gray’s stalker and, since relationships between agents and clients are forbidden, avoid a romantic attachment between herself and the rugged football player with the mysterious past.

Yet every secret that leads Dru closer to the stalker also draws her closer to Gray. As the danger escalates, they’ll survive only if they can learn to trust their lives—and their hearts—to one another.

 

My thoughts:

Her One and Only is a charming romance! Humor and heart are hallmarks of Becky Wade’s writing, and fans are sure to delight in her fourth and final book of the Porter Family series.

While there were times I would have liked more showing and less telling, I did enjoy Dru and Gray’s story. The chemistry between these two is palpable and really ignites as their relationship develops. I enjoyed their emotional and spiritual growth and appreciated the unique plot elements and the thread of suspense that is woven through the story. Letting go is the theme that carries through the novel, and it seems especially fitting as this concludes the Porter Family series.

Her One and Only is a great culmination of this beloved series!

 

Meet Dru Porter, former Marine, expert markswoman, and black belt—who also happens to be assigned as a bodyguard to star NFL tight end Gray Fowler. Don’t miss the final Porter family novel by Becky Wade, Her One and Only. Gray starts receiving death threats from a stalker, and Dru is determined to find his stalker. Every secret that leads Dru closer to the stalker also draws her closer to Gray. As the danger escalates, they’ll survive only if they can learn to trust their lives—and their hearts—to one another.

Join Becky in celebrating the release of Her One and Only by entering to win her Porter prize pack and $100 cash card giveaway!

her one and only - 400

One grand prize winner will receive:

  • A copy of Her One and Only
  • A $100 cash card
  • Follow Your Heart tote bag
  • 24 oz Tervis Wonder Woman Tumbler
  • The Blind Side DVD
  • Necklace with star charm
  • Porter Family navy jersey
her one and only - prize collage

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on May 31st. The winner will be announced June 1st on the Litfuse blog.

her-one-and-only-enter

 

B. Wade
Becky Wade is a native of California who attended Baylor University, met and married a Texan, and now lives in Dallas. A favorite among readers of Christian contemporary romance, Becky has won a Carol Award, an Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award, and an INSPY Award.

 

Her One and Only
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.  All thoughts expressed are my own.  Click here to read what other bloggers are saying about Her One and Only. 

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Friday Freebies

13 May

Freebie Graphic- BuzzingAboutBooks.com

 

A Twist of Faith

A Twist of Faith by Pepper Basham

Kindle

Dr. Adelina Roseland has worked ten years in research as an accent reduction specialist to attain her dream job. But a secret wager to transform Appalachian cattle farmer Reese Mitchell into corporate material challenges Adelina in ways she never expected, threatening her new position.

For one, Adelina didn’t plan for the faith and friction of Reese, or the unexpected influence of his chaotic family. Now, drawn into a culture she’d tried to forget, Adelina finds the warmth of family, the hope of faith, and the joy of love melting away the deep wounds of her past.

But when Reese discovers that he’s a pawn in her climb up the academic ladder, will he forgive Adelina’s deceit or will their miscommunication end in two broken lives?

 

Crumpets and Cowpies

Crumpets and Cowpies by Shanna Hatfield

Kindle

Rancher Thane Jordan reluctantly travels to England to settle his brother’s estate only to find he’s inherited much more than he could possibly have imagined.

Lady Jemma Bryan has no desire to spend a single minute in Thane Jordan’s intolerable presence much less live under the same roof with the handsome, arrogant American. Forced to choose between poverty or marriage to the man, she travels across an ocean and America to build a future on his ranch in Oregon.

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#BookReview: Hunting Hope | $200 Getaway #Giveaway

12 May

Hunting Hope

Hunting Hope by Nika Maples

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1WbwJ4P

Hope hunters know how to excavate hope from hardship. There is dirt underneath their fingernails and sweat on their shirts. They rake through the rubble of an unwanted situation, digging into difficult circumstances because they have come to expect that adversity will produce good. They believe that light always triumphs over darkness. They have learned to walk through winter with their eyes on spring.

Nika Maples became a hope hunter after suffering a massive brainstem stroke that left her quadriplegic in her twenties. Doctors warned that she had as little as 48 hours to live, and—if she lived at all—she would never walk or talk again. There was no hope on the horizon. So Nika started to hunt for it. Today, she not only walks, but she speaks to audiences everywhere about the power of hunting hope when a situation appears hopeless. She says hope remains camouflaged in the daily mundane. If we are not looking for it, we will miss it, though it is right before our eyes.

Whether you or someone you know is going through a situation that feels hopeless, you will find encouragement in Hunting Hope. Whether you are experiencing a medical trauma, a financial hardship, or a relational crisis, you will find empowerment in Hunting Hope. As you read, you will cling to 20 truths about God’s character and practice 5 daily disciplines that will develop your own character in crisis.

 

My thoughts:

“Hope is not an accident. Sometimes it has to be hunted, and hunting it takes courage.”

Hunting Hope is a tremendous source of encouragement! Using scriptural references and her own experiences, Nika Maples instructs and inspires readers to “dig through the darkness to find the light”. Filled with wisdom and insight, this heartfelt book offers emotional and spiritual comfort and guides readers on their journey to becoming a hope hunter. I loved the inspiring message found in Hunting Hope!

“Navigating our dark seasons is never easy. By showing us how to hunt for hope, Nika Maples encourages us to grow into the people Gold has designed us to be even while we are experiencing difficulty; to allow God to use all the seasons to bring about good.”

 

At twenty, Nika Maples learned that when hope was all she had, she claimed it boldly while defying all odds to recover from a devastating stroke. The lessons from that struggle are powerful and universal, and she shares those lessons in her new book, Hunting Hope. Doctors warned that she had as little as 48 hours to live, and—if she lived at all—she would never walk or talk again. There was no hope on the horizon. So Nika started to hunt for it. Today, she not only walks, but she speaks to audiences everywhere about the power of hunting hope when a situation appears hopeless. She says hope remains camouflaged in the daily mundane. If we are not looking for it, we will miss it, though it is right before our eyes.

Celebrate the release of Hunting Hope with a $200 Getaway Giveaway (details below) and a live webcast with Nika on May 26!

hunting hope-400

One grand prize winner will receive:

  • One copy of Hunting Hope
  • A $200 Hilton gift card to give a hope hunter the chance to rest

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 5/24. The winner will be announced at the Hunting Hope live author webcast on 5/26. RSVP for a chance to connect with Nika and other hope hunters, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!

hunting hope-enter

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 26th!

 

Nika Maples
Nika Maples is the author of Twelve Clean Pages, the memoir of her survival of lupus and a stroke that left her quadriplegic at age 20. After learning to walk and talk again, she became a public school teacher, winning 2007 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year. She holds an MA in English Education from Columbia University and currently is pursuing an MDIV from The King’s University. When she is not traveling to speak, she lives, writes, and laughs as much as possible in Fort Worth, Texas.

 

Hunting Hope
 I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.  Click here to read what other bloggers are saying about Hunting Hope. 
 

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