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#BookReview: Deception by Elizabeth Goddard

13 Jun

Deception

Deception by Elizabeth Goddard

Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/1Uwdahd

Jewel Caraway thought she’d left her mistakes in the past—but then her past arrives at her door. Though she’s thrilled to reunite with her estranged sister, something about her sister’s new husband makes Jewel uneasy. Does he know her secret? Is he the one behind the growing list of attacks against her? And if he is involved…does that mean her sister is, too? With nowhere else to turn, Jewel must rely on police chief Colin Winters—the first man to make the widow question her resolve to never love again. But will he stay by her side when her guarded secrets are revealed?

 

Deception graphic

My thoughts:

Elizabeth Goddard delivers another action-packed adventure in Deception! The drama unfolds quickly in this fast-paced story, and danger lurks around every corner. I really enjoyed the intrigue of Jewel and Colin’s story; it kept me turning the pages as I puzzled over secrets and suspects. I also enjoyed the vivid imagery of the Alaskan wilderness and the inspirational threads that were woven through the narrative. Deception is an exciting tale and a recommended read for 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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Elizabeth Goddard is an award-winning author of eighteen romance and romantic suspense novels, including the romantic mystery, The Camera Never Lies—winner of the prestigious Carol Award in 2011. After acquiring her computer science degree, she worked at a software firm before eventually retiring to raise her four children and become a professional writer. A member of several writing organizations, she judges numerous contests and mentors new writers. In addition to writing, she home schools her children and serves with her husband in ministry.

Connect with Beth:
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#BookReview: Forever Safe | Goodreads #Giveaway

10 Jun

Forever Safe

Forever Safe by Jody Hedlund

Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/1thi1MY

Heiress to a vast fortune, Victoria Cole has everything she wants, including the perfect fiancé. Having left two other men at the altar, Victoria is sure that now she’s found her true love and will finally live happily ever after. As her wedding draws near, however, Victoria’s life is threatened. To keep her safe, Victoria’s father hires a bodyguard.

Tom Cushman’s number one priority is protecting his clients, which means no personal entanglements. But he’s never guarded someone as beautiful and winsome as Victoria. After a near-kidnapping, the wedding is cancelled, and Tom hides Victoria at Cape Cod’s Race Point Lighthouse until her attacker can be found. Appointed as assistant light keeper with Victoria posing as his wife, Tom believes the isolation of the lighthouse will keep her safe.

As Victoria struggles to live without familiar luxuries, her heart betrays her with growing feelings for her protector. Determined to help Tom stop fleeing from his haunted past, can the runaway bride learn to face her own fears? With the attacker closing in, will both of them ever be able to stop running and find the safety they long for?

 

Graphic- Forever Safe by Jody Hedlund

My thoughts:

I loved this enthralling story! Jody Hedlund masterfully weaves history, mystery, and romance, creating a tender tale that is not to be missed!

Victoria Cole and Tom Cushman are wounded characters who share a beautiful and inspiring journey. Both running from past hurts and fears, I really appreciated their emotional and spiritual growth, and I loved the development of their relationship. I also delighted in Tom’s parents, James and Zelma. The wit and wisdom they offered Tom and Victoria was such a wonderful part of the narrative.

I have loved each Beacons of Hope novel, and I believe Forever Safe is my favorite of the series! I do hope Jody Hedlund will continue sharing these beautiful novels set among our nation’s lighthouses!

Enter the Goodreads giveaway now to win 1 of 5 copies of Forever Safe!

 

Jody Hedlund bio pic

Jody Hedlund is a best-selling and award-winning author who loves history and happily-ever-afters. She makes her home in Midland, MI with her husband and five children. When she’s not writing another of her page-turning stories, you can usually find her sipping coffee, eating chocolate, and reading.

Connect with Jody:
Website | Facebook | Twitter |Pinterest| Instagram

 

Forever Safe

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: The Beautiful Pretender | Once Upon a Kindle #Giveaway

6 Jun

The Beautiful Pretender

The Beautiful Pretender by Melanie Dickerson

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

The Margrave of Thornbeck has to find a bride, fast. He invites ten noble-born ladies from around the country to be his guests at Thornbeck Castle for two weeks, a time to test these ladies and reveal their true character.

Avelina is only responsible for two things: making sure her deception goes undetected and avoiding being selected as the margrave’s bride. Since the latter seems unlikely, she concentrates on not getting caught. No one must know she is merely a maidservant, sent by the Earl of Plimmwald to stand in for his daughter, Dorothea.

Despite Avelina’s best attempts at diverting attention from herself, the margrave has taken notice. And try as she might, she can’t deny her own growing feelings. But something else is afoot in the castle. Something sinister that could have far worse—far deadlier—consequences. Will Avelina be able to stop the evil plot? And at what cost?

 

My thoughts:

I absolutely adored this story! With nods to The Princess and the Pea and Beauty and the Beast, Melanie Dickerson has penned another splendid medieval tale you don’t want to miss!

As the Margrave of Thornbeck is tasked with finding a suitable wife, deception and danger loom. Avelina and Reinhart are emotionally compelling characters who swept me along in their journey, and I reveled in its intrigue, danger, and romance. Oh, the romance! I loved Avelina’s response to Reinhart’s question about her thoughts on marriage. This beautiful passage was one of my favorites!

The Beautiful Pretender is lovely story that enchanted me from beginning to end!

 

Join Melanie in celebrating the release of The Beautiful Pretender by entering to win her Once Upon a Kindle giveaway!

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One grand prize winner will receive:

  • A copy of The Beautiful Pretender
  • A Kindle Fire tablet
  • A $25 Amazon gift card
  • The choice between a Funko POP Disney Beauty or Beast doll
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Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on June 7th. The winner will be announced June 8th on Melanie’s blog.

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Melanie Dickerson
Melanie Dickerson is the author of The Healer’s Apprentice, a Christy Award finalist and winner of the National Reader’s Choice Award for Best First Book. Melanie earned a bachelor’s degree in special education from the University of Alabama and has been a teacher and a missionary. She lives with her husband and two daughters in Huntsville, Alabama.

 

 

The Beautiful Pretender
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 The Beautiful Pretender. 

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#BookReview: His Prairie Sweetheart by Erica Vetsch

2 Jun

His Prairie Sweetheart

His Prairie Sweetheart by Erica Vetsch

Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/25xPiBJ

After being jilted at the altar, Southern belle Savannah Cox seeks a fresh start out West and accepts a teaching position in Minnesota. But between her students’ lack of English, the rough surroundings and sheriff Elias Parker’s doubts and distrust, Savannah’s unprepared for both the job and the climate. However, she’s determined to prove she can handle anything her new town throws her way.

Elias gives it a week—or less—before the pretty schoolteacher packs her dainty dresses and hightails it back home. But no matter how many mishaps he has to rescue her from, Savannah doesn’t give up. Yet the real test is to come—a brutal blizzard that could finally drive her away, taking his heart with her…

 

My thoughts:

His Prairie Sweetheart is a delightful tale! Savannah Cox and Elias Parker are wonderful characters, and I loved the pairing of this Southern schoolteacher and Minnesota sheriff! Theirs is an engaging story filled with humor, adventure, and romance. Erica Vetsch’s love of history is evident, and I reveled in the real-life historical details and events she included in the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend His Prairie Sweetheart!

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

 

Erica Vetsch

Erica Vetsch is a transplanted Kansan now residing in Minnesota. She loves history and romance, and is blessed to be able to combine the two by writing historical romances. Whenever she’s not immersed in fictional worlds, she’s the company bookkeeper for the family lumber business, mother of two, wife to a man who is her total opposite and soul-mate, and avid museum patron.

To learn more about Erica and her books, please visit her website. 

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#BookReview: A Daughter’s Dream | 5 Book #Giveaway

1 Jun

A Daughter's Dream- Cover

A Daughter’s Dream by Shelley Shepard Gray

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/20vVAye

Rebecca Kinsinger has always dreamed of being a teacher. But when she’s given the opportunity she’s been waiting for at Charm Amish School, she’s dismayed to discover that teaching is hard work—work she’s afraid she’s not very good at.

That is, until Lilly Yoder joins the class. A thirteen-year old who’s just lost her parents, Lilly is in need of someone like Rebecca. For the first time since starting her new job, Rebecca feels a sense of purpose. But when she meets Lilly’s uncle, Jacob, his good looks and sweet, easy-going temperament are hard to ignore. How can she even entertain romantic thoughts of Jacob when his niece is her student?

Suddenly becoming Lily’s sole caregiver, Jacob Yoder never thought he’d be a single parent—or a farmer. Having been living in Florida as a carpenter, Jacob feels more at home wielding a hammer than a backhoe. The only bright spot in his life is Rebecca Kinsinger. As Lily and Rebecca develop a bond, Jacob’s fondness for the pretty teacher grows, too.

But when a fateful accident brings them together, Rebecca and Jacob must choose between duty and desire. Will they follow the path before them? Or set out to find true happiness…and true love?

 

A Daughter's Dream by Shelley Shepard Gray

My thoughts:

A Daughter’s Dream is a wonderful story! Shelley Shepard Gray welcomes readers back to Charm, Ohio, in the second book of her Charmed Amish Life series. For those who have not enjoyed Book 1, A Son’s Vow, this novel easily stands alone. However, I encourage you to read both books for a greater understanding and enjoyment of the characters and their stories.

One of my favorite things about Shelley Shepard Gray’s storytelling is her excellent characterization. From people to pets, she crafts endearing characters I enjoy spending time with. I loved Rebecca and Jacob and their emotional, heartfelt journey to happiness. Engaging and entertaining, this sweet story is sure to please fans of Amish fiction. I loved A Daughter’s Dream and look forward to revisiting Charm and its residents as this delightful series continues!

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

 

Enter to win a copy of A Daughter’s Dream—five winners will be chosen! The winners will be announced June 8 on Shelley’s blog!

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Shelley Gray

Shelley Shepard Gray is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.

 

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#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: 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.

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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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