Tag Archives: Inspirational fiction

#BookReview: On Lone Star Trail by Amanda Cabot

29 Feb

On Lone Star Trail

On Lone Star Trail by Amanda Cabot

Purchase links:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christianbook | DeeperShopping

If there’s one thing Gillian Hodge never wants to see again, it’s a man on a motorcycle. Her last encounter with one left her right hand crushed, ending her promising career as a concert pianist. Unsure about the next phase in her life, she heads to Rainbow’s End Resort for some R&R when a sudden thunderstorm causes a motorcycle to crash right in front of her.

When TJ Benjamin’s wife died, he lost more than his best friend; he lost his faith. He has spent the past year wandering the country on his motorcycle, trying not to think about the future. When he finds himself stranded with a busted bike and a reluctant rescuer, he has to wonder about God’s sense of humor.

As these broken people collide, they find that a bright future is still ahead–it just might not be the one they imagined for themselves.

 

My thoughts:

Once again, Amanda Cabot entertains and encourages readers with an enjoyable visit to the Texas Hill Country! Gillian Hodge and TJ Benjamin are both seeking a new direction when their paths cross quite unexpectedly. “Can this woman without a future and this man running from his past find romance in the present?”

On Lone Star Trail is an engaging story! Gillian and TJ are wounded characters, and theirs is a realistic story riddled with drama, emotion, and romance. I have enjoyed the Texas Crossroads series and will miss visiting Dupree, Texas, and the Rainbow’s End Resort!

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

 

Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of the Texas Dreams series, the Westward Winds series, Christmas Roses, At Bluebonnet Lake, and In Firefly Valley. Her books have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Awards and the Booksellers’ Best. She lives in Wyoming. Learn more at www.amandacabot.com.

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#BookReview: A Sweet Misfortune by Maggie Brendan

27 Feb

A Sweet Misfortune

A Sweet Misfortune by Maggie Brendan

Purchase links:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christianbook | DeeperShopping

Rachel Matthews isn’t one to rely on others to take care of her. Homeless and alone, she still wants to make her own way and her own money to buy back the family ranch–even if she’s forced into the life of a dance hall girl. Horrified by her circumstances, Rachel’s brother, who is away mining for gold, sends a friend to rescue her.

Cattle baron John McIntyre is focused on acquiring as much land as possible in Montana and has little time to deal with a dance hall gal. Rachel isn’t sure she can take one more day in John’s home–especially once she discovers that he’s the one who holds ransom the key to her family’s future.

 

My thoughts:

A Sweet Misfortune is a charming story! John and Rachel made my smile, and I thoroughly enjoyed their story!

One of my favorite things about this novel is the wonderful characterization. Primary and secondary characters alike are well-crafted, and they endear themselves to the reader throughout the narrative. The story line comes alive with humor, drama, and romance, making this heartwarming historical a pleasure to read!

Maggie Brendan continues to delight fans with her Virtues and Vices of the Old West series, and I look forward to the next adventure!

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

 

Maggie Brendan is the CBA bestselling author of the Heart of the West series and the Blue Willow Brides series, as well as The Trouble with Patience. Her books have received the Book Buyers Best Award from the Orange County Chapter of Romance Writers of America and the Laurel Wreath Award. She lives in Georgia.

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#Giveaway: COLD SHOT by Dani Pettrey

25 Feb

Cold Shot

COLD SHOT by Dani Pettrey

Purchase links:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christianbook | DeeperShopping

In college, Griffin McCray and his four best friends had their lives planned out. Griffin and Luke Gallagher would join the Baltimore PD. Declan Gray would head to the FBI, and Parker Mitchell would go on to graduate school as a crime scene analyst. But then Luke vanished before graduation and their world–and friendships–crumbled.

Now Griffin is a park ranger at Gettysburg, having left life as a SWAT-team sniper when a case went bad. The job is mostly quiet–until the day he captures two relic hunters uncovering skeletal remains near Little Round Top. Griffin just wants the case to go away, but charming forensic anthropologist Finley Scott determines that the body is modern–a young social justice lawyer missing since spring–and all evidence points to the work of an expert sniper.

When FBI agent Declan Gray takes over the case, past and present collide. Griffin soon realizes he’ll need to confront some of the darkest days of his life if he–and those he cares about–are going to escape a downward spiral of murder that crosses continents.

 

My thoughts:

COLD SHOT is a great romantic suspense! This first book in an exciting new series by beloved author Dani Pettrey introduces readers to a cast of complex and intriguing characters. I really enjoyed getting to know this band of brothers and am eager to learn more about them as the series progresses.

I loved Griffin and Finley and their romantic chemistry! Struggling with issues from their pasts, it was great to experience their emotional and spiritual journeys as the story unfolded. COLD SHOT enthralled me from beginning to end as murders, investigations, and a tangle of twists and turns kept me guessing.

I am really excited about the adventures that await in this new series! As much as I loved the McKenna family from the Alaskan Courage series, I have a sneaking suspicion that I just might love the “brothers” of Chesapeake Valor even more. We’ll see!  

 

Giveaway- Cold Shot

GIVEAWAY DETAILS – (US only)
Thanks to the generosity of Dani Pettrey and Bethany House Publishers, one lucky reader will win a print copy of COLD SHOT!

To enter the giveaway:
Leave a comment below, and be sure to include your email address. The giveaway ends Tuesday, March 1 at midnight CST. The winner will be drawn, emailed, and announced on March 2nd.  If the winner does not claim their prize within 3 days, another winner will be drawn.  

To earn additional entries:
Follow this blog, Buzzing About Books, and/or share the giveaway via social media. Be sure to let me know what you’ve done to earn additional entries!  This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

Contest Rules:
◦No purchase is necessary.
◦Odds of winning are based on number of entries.
◦US residents, 18 and older, are eligible to enter.

 

DaniSpring2016

Dani Pettrey is the acclaimed author of the brand new romantic suspense Chesapeake Valor series, as well as the well-loved Alaskan Courage series which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, Silenced, and Sabotaged. 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 her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their daughters, son-in-law, and super-adorable grandson.

Author Links:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

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#BookReview: Blue Ribbon Trail Ride by Miralee Ferrell

22 Feb

Blue Ribbon Trail Ride

Blue Ribbon Trail Ride by Miralee Ferrell

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1QHgZ3T

Thirteen-year old Kate and her friends came up with the perfect way to raise money for her autistic younger brother and others to attend summer camp—a horse scavenger hunt! As local businesses donate money and prizes, Kate keeps the entry fees in her mom’s antique jewelry box.

But when the box and the money disappear, Kate and her friends must unravel the clues, hold on to hope, and solve the mystery along the Blue Ribbon Trail Ride. 


 My thoughts:

Blue Ribbon Trail Ride is another great addition to the Horses and Friends series! Miralee Ferrell’s wonderful storytelling ability combined with her love and knowledge of horses make this a delightful series for young readers. This book reads well as a stand-alone story; however, the friendships that are shared are best understood by reading the books in order.

Not only is Blue Ribbon Trail Ride engaging and entertaining, it also emphasizes the importance of kindness, friendship, and forgiveness. Kate and her friends are great characters and a scavenger hunt, amateur sleuthing, and a sting operation are just a few of their adventures. I really enjoyed this story, as well as the other books in the series, and am so glad to know there are two more books forthcoming!

There are several bonus features in the back of the book that I think young readers will really enjoy. Discussion questions are included as “Secrets for Your Diary” and each one includes a note from Kate. Suggestions for a horse-themed scavenger hunt are also included, followed by a note from the author.

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

Blog Tour:
http://litfusegroup.com/author/mferrell

 

Miralee Ferrell photo

Miralee Ferrell is the award-winning author of more than a dozen novels. She and her husband live along the Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington State, where she enjoys riding the wooded trails and spending time with her grown children. In addition to horses and dogs, Miralee once owned two cougars.

Connect with Miralee: website, Twitter, Facebook

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#BookReview: Kissed by a Cowboy by Debra Clopton

17 Feb

Kissed by a Cowboy by Debra Clopton

Kissed by a Cowboy by Debra Clopton

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1PMjz9Z

Having lived through her parents’ endless string of “matrimonial bliss gone wrong,” Cassidy Starr knows when the odds are not in her favor. Divorced and humiliated, her faith on rocky ground, Cassidy is through with love. She’s been bucked off that horse far too many times. Instead, she returns to Wishing Springs, Texas, and the rundown farm she’s inherited from her great aunt Roxie. She’ll reopen the strawberry farm and a bed & breakfast and follow in her aunt’s footsteps, remaining forever-independent, happy . . . and single.

Rancher Jarrod Monahan’s hands are full running the ranch, looking after his ailing grandfather, and chasing down a group of rustlers on the loose. He’s pushed his longing for a family to the bottom of his list of priorities. Besides, he was in love once but ran scared and lost his shot at happiness. But suddenly, the biggest regret of his life has moved in next door with a wounded heart, determined to become a spinster . . . and that’s a challenge that Jarrod can’t pass up.

Jarrod sets his mind to breaking down the walls around Cassidy’s stubborn heart. How can he show her that a cowboy’s kiss lasts forever? For the good folks of Wishing Springs, falling in love has never been so much fun to witness.

 

My thoughts:

Cassidy was looking for a home and a place to belong . . . not for a cowboy to steal her heart.

  Kissed by a Cowboy is another enjoyable Four Hearts Ranch Romance! Once again, Debra Clopton welcomes readers back to Wishing Springs, Texas, where the folks are friendly and feel like family.

I have enjoyed this fun series, and it’s been a pleasure getting to know the Monahan brothers. They are all such charming cowboys! Jarrod and Cassie are great characters and their chemistry, quick wit, and quirky comments are delightful. I really enjoyed their second chance at romance, and I also loved revisiting beloved characters from previous series releases. Humorous and heartwarming, Kissed by a Cowboy is an entertaining story!

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

Blog Tour:
http://litfusegroup.com/author/dclopton

 

Debra Clopton

Debra Clopton is a multi-award winning novelist and has written more than 22 novels. Along with writing, Debra helps her husband teach the youth at their local Cowboy Church. Debra’s goal is to shine a light toward God while she entertains readers with her words.

Connect with Debra: website, Twitter, Facebook

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#BookReview: Cold Shot by Dani Pettrey | Chesapeake Valor Prize Pack #Giveaway

16 Feb

Cold Shot

Cold Shot by Dani Pettrey

Purchase links:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christianbook | DeeperShopping

In college, Griffin McCray and his four best friends had their lives planned out. Griffin and Luke Gallagher would join the Baltimore PD. Declan Gray would head to the FBI and Parker Mitchell would go on to graduate school as a crime scene analyst. But then Luke vanished before graduation and their world–and friendships–crumbled.

Now Griffin is a park ranger at Gettysburg, having left life as a SWAT-team sniper when a case went bad. The job is mostly quiet–until the day he captures two relic hunters uncovering skeletal remains near Little Round Top. Griffin just wants the case to go away, but charming forensic anthropologist Finley Scott determines that the body is modern–a young social justice lawyer missing since spring–and all evidence points to the work of an expert sniper. When FBI agent Declan Gray takes over the case, past and present collide. Griffin soon realizes he’ll need to confront some of the darkest days of his life if he–and those he cares about–are going to escape a downward spiral of murder that crosses continents.

 

My thoughts:

Cold Shot is a great romantic suspense! This first book in an exciting new series by beloved author Dani Pettrey introduces readers to a cast of complex and intriguing characters. I really enjoyed getting to know this band of brothers and am eager to learn more about them as the series progresses.

I loved Griffin and Finley and their romantic chemistry! Struggling with issues from their pasts, it was great to experience their emotional and spiritual journeys as the story unfolded. Cold Shot enthralled me from beginning to end, as murders, investigations, and a tangle of twists and turns kept me guessing.

I am really excited about the adventures that await in this new series. As much as I loved the McKenna family from the Alaskan Courage series, I have a sneaking suspicion that I just might love the “brothers” of Chesapeake Valor even more. We’ll see!

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

 

chesapeake valor prize pack

Bethany House Publishers is celebrating the release of Cold Shot with a Chesapeake Valor Prize Pack Giveaway!  Enter here!!

 

Dani Pettrey

Dani Pettrey is the acclaimed author of the romantic suspense series Alaskan Courage.  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 her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their daughters, son-in-law, and super-adorable grandson.

Author Links:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

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#BookReview: A Worthy Heart by Susan Anne Mason

15 Feb

A Worthy Heart

A Worthy Heart by Susan Anne Mason

Purchase links:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christianbook | DeeperShopping

Maggie Montgomery’s long-held wish to see America is finally coming true. She’ll visit her beloved brother Rylan and his wife, Colleen, and at the same time, escape Neill Fitzgerald’s unwanted attention. In addition, Maggie has a secret! She plans to remain in America to seek her fortune and to hopefully find love. While visiting Irish Meadows, she meets an intriguing man whom she thinks is a stable hand. Only when Rylan demands she stay away from Adam O’Leary does she realize he’s Colleen’s brother, recently released from prison. Nonetheless, Maggie can’t seem to make her heart conform to her brother’s request.

Adam O’Leary has never felt worthy of his place in the family. Spending time in jail only reinforces his belief. Now that he’s free, Adam hopes to make amends and earn back his family’s trust. Falling in love with Maggie Montgomery, however, was never in his plans.

Despite everyone’s effort to keep them apart, the two develop a bond nothing can break–but has Adam truly changed, or will the sins of his past prove too much for Maggie to overcome?

 

My thoughts:

A Worthy Heart is a captivating story! Susan Anne Mason engaged my senses with her excellent characterization and vivid imagery. I enjoyed hearing the lilting Irish brogue as I read and reveled in the myriad of details and the richness they added to the novel.

I was delighted to revisit the O’Leary family, as well as meet the Montgomery siblings.  Boasting two romantic story lines, the intertwined plots, along with a wonderful inspirational thread, propel this story forward and make for a most compelling read. I loved this beautifully written family drama and can’t wait to continue the Courage to Dream series!

A Worthy Heart is the second book in this series, and I recommend reading Book 1, Irish Meadows, prior to reading this novel. I believe reading the books in order will offer a better understanding of the characters and a greater enjoyment of their stories.

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

 

Susan Anne Mason

Susan Anne Mason’s debut historical novel, Irish Meadows, won the Fiction from the Heartland contest from the Mid-American Romance Authors Chapter of RWA. A member of ACFW, as well, she lives outside of Toronto, Ontario, with her husband and two children.

Connect with Susan: website, Facebook,Twitter

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Friday Freebie

12 Feb

Freebie Graphic- BuzzingAboutBooks.com

 

River of Danger

River of Danger by Alexa Verde

Kindle

Dallas reporter River Montenegro returns to her hometown, Rios Azules, in south Texas to aid her father, a constantly recovering alcoholic. After the notorious Smiling Killer strikes close to her home — and her own neck, River grudgingly accepts help from her childhood friend and first love, who unknowingly crushed her heart.

When his formerly awkward school buddy is being stalked and attacked, local newspaper editor and town favorite Jacob Forrester decides to protect River. Falling for River, who blossomed into a confident, beautiful woman, Jacob is also eager to take their friendship to a different level. But River always made it clear she wouldn’t stick around.

Scarred and scared, River has fled to the big city lights once. But she’s stronger now. The homegrown killer better be prepared because not all Rivers run…

River of Danger is a prequel to the Secrets of Rios Azules Series, followed by Book 1, Color of Danger. The series is set in Rios Azules, a small Texas town where rivers and emotions run deep, and the richest family in town has a fine taste for food, jewelry, and murder. 

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#BookReview: Always Watching by Lynette Eason

11 Feb

Always Watching- Cover

Always Watching by Lynette Eason

Purchase links:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christianbook | DeeperShopping

The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have more than just skill and prowess in common–they’re also all women. When it becomes clear that popular psychiatrist and radio personality Wade Savage has a stalker, his father secretly hires Elite Guardians in order to protect his son.

But when Wade’s bodyguard is attacked and nearly killed, agency owner Olivia Edwards must step in and fill the gap. Olivia’s skills are about to be tested to the limit as Wade’s stalker moves from leaving innocent gifts at his door to threatening those closest to him. Olivia has the feeling that she’s next on the list. And to complicate things even further, she realizes that her heart may be in as much danger as her client.

 

Graphic- Always Watching

Always Watching is not your typical suspense! With a style all her own, Lynette Eason has crafted a chilling and thrilling story!

Wade Savage is being watched and his stalker is determined to get his attention. Hired to protect him, Olivia Edwards and her team are determined to keep Wade safe. Will they survive this dangerous and deadly game?

Complex characters, unique story elements, and a subtle romance kept me turning the pages of this spine-tingling suspense. I really enjoyed this first Elite Guardians novel and am eager to continue this exciting new series!

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

 

A behind the scenes look at the cover photo shoot!

 

Lynette Eason

Lynette Eason grew up in Greenville, SC. She graduated from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, and then obtained her masters in education from Converse College. Author of twenty inspirational romantic suspense books, she is also a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA).

Visit Lynette’s website: http://www.lynetteeason.com/

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Cover Reveal: A Lady Unrivaled by Roseanna M. White

9 Feb

I’m so excited to reveal the cover of the third book in Roseanna M. White’s Ladies of the Manor series, A Lady Unrivaled!  I think it’s a beautiful and alluring cover that draws you in and invites you to discover the story inside!  

The Ladies of the Manor Series take readers back in time to Edwardian England, when automobiles and electric lights were all the rage, but the old way of life still ruling the land. Lords and ladies, maids and valets…and in this case, a dose of danger and mystery to take them all on their journey to love.  If you’re a fan of historical romance, you certainly need to add this series to your must read list!

A Lady Unrivaled

A Lady Unrivaled by Roseanna M. White

White Is Quickly Becoming the Top Name in Edwardian Romance

About the book:

Lady Ella Myerston can always find a reason to smile–even if it’s just in hope that tomorrow will be better than today. All her life everyone has tried to protect her from the realities of the world, but Ella knows very well the danger that has haunted her brother and their friend, and she won’t wait for it to strike again. She intends to take action . . . and if that happens to involve an adventurous trip to the Cotswolds, then so much the better.

Lord Cayton has already broken two hearts, including that of his first wife, who died before he could convince himself to love her. Now he’s determined to live a better life. But that proves complicated when old friends arrive on the scene and try to threaten him into a life of crime. He does his best to remove the intriguing Lady Ella from danger, but the stubborn girl won’t budge. How else can he redeem himself, though, but by saving her–and his daughter–from those dangerous people who seem ready to destroy them all?

A Lady Unrivaled:
Find it on Amazon | Find it on Christian Book | Find it on Goodreads | See the Pinterest Page

 

Roseanna M. White

Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna’s novels range from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her new British series. She lives with her family in West Virginia. Learn more at www.RoseannaMWhite.com

 

Do you judge a book by its cover?
What are you thoughts about the cover of A Lady Unrivaled?  

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