Tuesday, December 28, 2010

NEW BEGINNINGS by Wendy Davy




Cora Andrews loved Adam Peyton until she found out that he worked for her stepfather. Because of a business deal Cora's stepfather believes that she might be in danger. When Cora decides to take a cruise for vacation Adam Peyton is sent to be her bodyguard. Will Adam be able to get past the wall that Cora's built up against him and see the love he has for her?

This was a great little story. It's very short so not a whole lot of time or pages to develop characters but what was there was wonderful. I really wish this was longer because I really liked Adam Peyton. Wendy Davy never disappoints. Even with the little stories.

My sweet husband gifted me with a Kindle this year for Christmas. I am a diehard book fan but as I look around at my shelves and shelves of books (taking over the house as my family says) I starting thinking that a Kindle might be a pretty good thing. I mean you can take a library with you on vacation! I have found it very easy to use and all the books I have collected from the Kindle for PC now appear on my Kindle. But, I wanted to buy something and read it on my Kindle...so I chose New Beginnings by Wendy Davy. It was a great title because this was a new beginning for me. I must say I really like it. I'm not sure that it would ever replace holding a book in my hand and smelling the fresh ink wafting up from the crisp pages but I really like having the opportunity to choose how I want to read a story. So if you too have been gifted with a Kindle you may want to begin with New Beginnings.

Saturday, December 25, 2010

KISS IN THE DARK by Marcia Lynn McClure




Boston has a great group of friends, especially Danielle who is her best friend. Boston shares with her friends that a guy she has liked for a long time has finally asked her out. She is extremely happy about it until she meets Danielle's brother, Vance. Instant attraction. Vance seems to be everything that Boston is looking for but something seems to be holding him back. Danielle and Vance share a secret. Will Vance trust Boston enough to share his secret? and how will a kiss in the dark change everything?

Another very fun read by this author. I love how she interjects humor and emotion to her stories no matter the storyline. It feels good sometimes to read a story that's not loaded with endless conflict or some major emotional mess. This story didn't have all that, but instead was just a great quick and easy read.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

KISSING COUSINS by Marcia Lynn McClure




Poppy Amore has been in love with Swaggart Moretti for longer than she can remember. He is part-time manager and cook at Good Ol' Days where Poppy is a waitress. Thinking she doesn't stand a chance that Swaggart would ever give her a second look romantically, she accepts a date with a really nice and handsome man who she thinks might make her forget about Swaggart. Swaggart has always had a thing for Poppy but felt he would never be good enough for her. So what happens when Swaggart runs across Poppy's "Dream To-Do" list and finds kissing him is number one on the list?

What a totally fun and romantic read. No major conflicts or danger but just a warm and cozy read. I fell in love with Swaggart. What a great guy. I thoroughly enjoyed the interaction between him and Poppy! I also really liked how the author mentioned all the old songs throughout the story. Marcia's books are always clean but loaded with romantic tension, which I love! Kissing Cousins comes highly recommended!

Sunday, December 19, 2010

THE HEAVENLY SURRENDER by Marcia Lynnn McClure




Genieva Bankmans has agreed to marry Brevan McLean through a letter. When they finally meet neither is what the other expected. Feeling an immediate attraction to one another, Brevan is not sure what to do. They do marry and though it is a marriage in name only, feelings and attractions begin to seep into their hearts. But danger lurks around the corner. There are a few things that Genieva's new husband has neglected to tell her about and she soon finds herself smack-dab in the middle of some old family trouble.

Another wonderful, very romantic story by Marcia Lynn McClure. I found it very hard to put down once I started reading it. I enjoyed all the characters in this story. Brevan was a wonderful hero and Genieva was a wonderful match for him. One thing I have really come to appreciate about Marcia books (at least the ones I've read) is her dialog. It keeps me as a reader so involved in the story and she just has a way of stirring your emotions. Once again I would say if you like a good old fashioned historical that's clean with lots of romantic tension pick up The Heavenly Surrender. I haven't been disappointed yet.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

THE PIRATE RUSE by Marcia Lynn McClure




If you like a good clean pirate story with LOTS of SIZZLE then you have got to read The Pirate Ruse by Marcia Lynn McClure. This definitely made my top favorites list! Our tale begins when Cristabel Albay finds herself abducted in the night and put aboard an English ship. That ship is attacked by The Screaming Witch, the pirate ship of the famous vicious pirate, Bully Booth. While his crew plunders the English ship, Bully Booth finds a treasure of his own...Cristabel Albay. As he's carrying her off to his ship, The Screaming Witch is attacked by The Merry Wench, the ship of the famous merciful pirate, Captain Navarrone the Blue Blade. He quickly rescues Cristabel by grabbing her and jumping into the sea. He tells her if she wishes to see another day she must swim to The Merry Wench. But is it truly a rescue if your rescuer is also a pirate?

I LOVED everything about this story. The characters were very well drawn. The dialog was superb! The story was engaging from beginning to end and impossible to put down! There was such a wonderful mix of emotions. I found myself laughing, worrying, nail biting and sighing. I truly felt like I was right there in the story. Captain Navarrone is an excellent hero and a wonderful match for the stubborn Cristabel Albay. I highly recommend The Pirate Ruse. You are in for a real treat. Great job Marcia!!!

Monday, December 13, 2010

TO ECHO THE PAST by Marcia Lynn McClure




To Echo the Past returns us once again to the McCall family. This story's lead character is Michael McCall (the son of Jackson McCall whom we met in Desert Fire). Brynn Clarkston is from the city and doesn't particularly like the country life that her parents have moved their family to. She thinks the people are so unrefined. But that all changes when she meets up with Michael McCall in the general store.

I thoroughly enjoy To Echo the Past. It was fun seeing all the original characters and especially Jackson and Malaina again. Michael is a such a great character. So much like his father. There were so many parts that made me laugh out loud just like in Desert Fire but there was also some very touching moments as well. It's a short read but if you've read Desert Fire you won't want to miss it. You could read To Echo the Past as a stand alone but I would highly recommend you read Desert Fire first. Fun story.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

DESERT FIRE by Marcia Lynn McClure




Jackson McCall comes upon a young woman who's out cold and appears to be running away from something. He brings her home to the family ranch where he lives with his mother and two brothers. When she finally comes to, she finds she doesn't have any memory of who she is or why she was running. The family is good to her and she becomes very fond of them but doesn't quite know what to make of Jackson. He is very protective but also seems somewhat distant with her. As she starts to gain her memory a little at a time, she realizes that she might possibly put this family and the man she's come to love, in grave danger.

I thoroughly enjoy Desert Fire. I received it in the mail from a friend and opened it up to see how the story starts and ended up reading the whole thing. What a page turner! Loved the dialog and the characters were great fun! This story made me laugh when I was reading some of the interaction between the brothers and it made me sigh at some of the moments between Malaina and Jackson. The more I read Marcia Lynn McClure's books the more I like them. This is a short read that feels like a full story. I would definitely recommend Desert Fire if you like a good, clean, old fashioned, historical romp complete with mystery, action, suspense and romance!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

THE ROGUE KNIGHT by Marcia Lynn McClure




The Rogue Knight is a quick and thoroughly enjoyable tale. Fontaine was left in the care of her wicked aunt when her parents were killed. She fears her aunt will force her to marry someone older with money. That way her aunt will benefit. Just as Fontaine was feeling hopeless about her situation, her rescue comes in an unlikely package. One that is tall, dark, handsome and in need of her help. Knight shows up at her door after having been robbed and beaten. He soon realizes that Fontaine helped him even though it was a danger to her because of her aunt. Immediately Knight forms a plan to help her. Will his plan be a successful? And what will happen when she finds out the truth about him?

This was a very romantic tale. It kept me turning pages from beginning to end. I really fell in love with Knight and his roguish ways. Fontaine was a very sweet and caring heroine. I also enjoyed all the secondary characters as well. Except for the wicked aunt and you weren't suppose to like her anyway!! This is my second book by this author and it definitely won't be my last. I really like her easy writing style. This story was clean with a little edge (which I love). I would certainly recommend this wonderful little tale.

Monday, December 6, 2010

DUSTY BRITCHES by Marcia Lynn McClure




This is the first book I've read by this author and I really enjoyed it! The story takes us into the life of Angelina (Dusty) Hunter who years ago when only 14 found herself in love with her father's best ranch hand, Ryder Maddox. Ryder was 20 at the time and was drawn to her to the point he left with the idea of returning when she grew up. Five years has now passed and she's watching for her father to bring home some cattle he purchased. But that's not all her father brought home. Her father ran into Ryder and hired him to work at the ranch again. Ryder is determined to win the heart of the girl who stole his years ago. But Dusty's heart has hardened over the last five years. And though she is still very much in love with Ryder she is determined to never let her heart be broken again.

This was an easy paced story. I found that I really liked the characters. They were all interesting and fun. There were several stories going on in addition to Ryder & Dusty. I liked Dusty but there were a few times I wanted to shake her and say "wake up girl"! Ryder was an "ahhhh" kind of hero. Simple but complicated. There was a little mystery, a little suspense and just an all around good story. Her stories are clean and her characters are moral. (at least in this story). If you're looking for a good old-fashioned historical romance, then pick up a copy of Dusty Britches!

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

SHADOWS OF SUSPICION by Ashley Dawn




Okay, I've got to tell you that if you don't read this book you will miss a totally awesome story. Fast paced, snappy dialog and an amazing cast of characters.
Kerry Reiley is a second grade teacher who loves what she does. She is a simple girl who loves people (including her family) and people love her too. But...when you have brothers that work for the FBI (Jordon) and CIA (Rick)you may have to watch your back. Revenge is what Chris Deveraux wants. That and his father's release from prison. When her brothers find that she's been taken by him...Rick calls in a friend he knows can get her out. Luke Reeding is good at what he does and owes Rick a favor for saving his life. He thinks he's rescuing a damsel in distress. What he doesn't count on is finding a beautiful, capable, strong willed, very witty girl. As they are thrown together in hiding waiting for Rick and Jordon to capture Chris Deveraux they develop a very strong attraction between them. She knows she can't let her heart fall for this man who doesn't share her faith. It's pretty hard though when he's everything you've desired. Luke has never met a woman like Kerry nor felt the 'forever' type feelings he's dealing with lately. Both know they have no future together or is it true that all things are possible with God?

From the first page until the last I was totally engrossed in this story! We met and fell in love with the Reiley family in the author's first book Shadows from the Past. (Jordon & Aurora's story). Shadows of Suspicion is Kerry Reiley's story. I LOVE that the author continues to involve the whole family. I love how she blends suspense, humor, emotion and a solid biblical message concerning salvation and being unequally yoked, into the story. The Reiley family dynamics is something to behold. The brothers are very protective alpha males who love to play hard and love hard. Over the top good! The women are strong and stubborn but also protective of their family. I really would highly recommend this story. You won't be disappointed. I am REALLY looking forward to the next installment. The author left the door open wide for future books, I'm just wondering who will be next? Great Job Ashley Dawn!!

Monday, November 29, 2010

PRICE OF THIEVES by Tamelia Tumlin




Cheyenne Lawson needs to get arrested in order to get her son what he needs. When a man leaves an expensive ring on the table she seizes the opportunity. But her plan backfires when she's bailed out of jail by the owner of the ring. He just happens to be a very handsome Arabian prince. Prince Kareem bin Ishmail doesn't want a wife but he needs one in order give the people of his country stability. He is suppose to marry a woman from his country but doesn't wish to do that. So he make a proposal to Cheyenne that she can't refuse, life in prison in his desert country or a temporary marriage. As they get to know each other they find they are very drawn to one another. Cheyenne Lawson not only stole the prince's ring, she just may have stolen his heart too.

This was a great little story. Although not a 'Christian' story it was filled with lots of great characters and some great romantic tension and zippy dialog. The reason for stealing the ring didn't even seem reasonable to me but after all it is fiction. I totally loved the prince. He was a kind and chivalrous person. Cheyenne was a great character. Such a free spirit with a bubbly personality. If you enjoy a good clean story filled with great characters then you would enjoy Prince of Thieves.

A TIME FOR HEALING by Tamelia Tumlin




Jaci Sinclair believes in God's forgiveness, just not for her. She feels that there is no way that God would forgive her for a mistake she made as a youth. And because of that mistake she would not have what she truly wants, a family filled with love. She finds fulfillment in being a vet and also fostering a troubled boy who lost his mother. Hunter Grant is full of bitterness and has lost his faith. He left his job as an FBI hostage negotiator to move to a small Texas town to forget the pain of losing his wife and son. He decides he will just run a ranch and keep to himself. What he didn't count on was Jaci. Will these two find the love and forgiveness they seek with God and each other?

This was a story that kept me entertained from start to finish. I especially enjoyed our lead couple. How they interacted was interesting and fun. I appreciated the message of love and forgiveness and also how God uses even the bad things in our lives for his purpose. It was interesting to watch as these two dealt with the troubled teen. The secondary characters were very endearing. The author made you feel like you were part of the little town of Yellow Rose. All-in-all "A Time for Healing" was a good quick read. Looking forward to other works by Tamelia Tumlin.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

BE NOT AFRAID by Deborah Lynne




Samantha Cain is the widow of a policeman trying to raise her son. In order to support them she works the night shift at a trucking company that sits across from the river. One night while working she hears a scream. After calling 911 she races toward where she saw the woman struggling against a large man. She knows she can only help by distracting him until help arrives. When help does finally arrive it's in the form of Detective Matthew Jefferies, her dead husband's partner. He's been looking for this twisted killer for sometime but now he has a witness. When attempts are made on Samantha's life, Matthew takes her into hiding. Neither one expected to find a growing attraction between them. Matthew's job is not really good on a relationship and Samantha wants nothing to do with another policeman after what Martin put her through. What will happen when they are thrown together and begin to realize that neither one of them are what they expected?

This was a good story. It kept me wanting to find out what would happen next or wondering when the villain would strike next. I liked Matthew. His character came across as realistic to me. His thinking seemed to be very logical. I had a little trouble liking Samantha. I understood some of her thinking, considering her dead husband's behavior, but sometimes I felt like she was acting like a child in an adult body. Toward the end of the book I liked her a little better. Be Not Afraid had some suspense, some mystery and some romance. All in all it was a good read.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

NOTHING AS IT SEEMS by Kerri Fraser




Nothing as it Seems was a story I could not put down and one that will remain a keeper on my shelf for re-reading again! Our tale peeks into the life of Miri Wellerson who has a passion for doing the Will of God and understanding people. But when Del, a friend from work, reveals some things from his past she realizes he's not the person she thought he was. Both her and Del miss the fact that they are being watched by James. He has a job to do but it's not always an easy one. Miri has issues because of her ex-husband. So she's pretty good at reading people. What this means and how it all plays out is something you won't want to miss.

I absolutely LOVED this excellent story. I didn't know what to expect when I started reading it but be forewarned that once you pick it up you won't be able to put it down. It was a very satisfying tale chock full of wonderful characters that you grow to love with each passing page. I hated coming to the end of the book because that meant saying goodbye to them. There are little surprises along the way and a twist at the end that I really didn't expect at all. Miri's simple faith was such an inspiration. It made me wish I was more like her. The romance was not sappy at all but very well done. This story had it all and I loved every minute of it. The book is a little pricey but well worth it. One thing I might mention is that it's an odd size book. Almost like a textbook size. I HIGHLY recommend Nothing as it Seems and hopefully will see more works by Kerri Fraser in the future! Great job!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

SABOTAGE by Anne Patrick




Katie McKinley is a district judge who sometimes doesn't like her job very much. Like ruling against her childhood friend and first love, Graham Bishop. It cost Graham his family's home. So, when Katie starts receiving threatening notes and an attempt is made on her life the Sheriff wonders if it could be Graham. Katie is sure that the Graham she knew would never really try to hurt her or would he? Graham Bishop has always had a heart for Katie. Now that they are both without their spouses he hopes that maybe his life long prayer might be answered. But, can he convince Katie and the Sheriff that he had nothing to do with the threats?

My goodness, I was totally enthralled with Sabotage! It kept me turning pages from beginning to end. I really liked the lead couple along with all the secondary characters. I always enjoy this authors characters because they are so true-to-life. They struggle with issues that we all struggle with. The message of how past decisions can affect your future played out strong in Graham & Katie. But the message of how a good strong role model to give you guidance can make a major difference along with your faith in God was strong as well. If you love a good story with great characters complete with a faith message, mystery, suspense and, of course, romance then don't miss Sabotage. I highly recommend it! Great job Anne!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

BETRAYED by Amy Clipston




Lacey Fowler's world is turned upside down when her dad and step-mom are killed in a car crash. But something doesn't sound right about the accident. She also finds some major money being drained from her dad's racing company. She finds out too, her father's will leaves his portion of the company to be split equally between her and Reese Mitchell, a winning driver for racing company. Lacey has always been in love with Reese so when it's suggested that they marry to gain control of the company and find out the truth, she reluctantly agrees. The guilty party is not happy about the marriage or the fact they're looking for answers. Will they figure it out in time? And what will happen to their marriage of convenience?

This was a good NASCAR tale. I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this story. I truly felt engaged as a reader from beginning to end. I could see why Reese and Lacey were reluctant to give their hearts to each other. Especially Lacey because of Reese's reputation of being a ladies-man. But I also felt like some of her thinking and reactions were unrealistic, especially because she had known him all her life. I might also make mention that although this author writes good Amish Christian stories, this tale would not be considered in that category.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

A PLAIN & SIMPLE CHRISTMAS by Amy Clipston




Anna Mae Beiler was shunned from her family when she married 'Englisher' Kellen McDonough three years ago. Although not Amish he is a good Christian man and they have made a good life for themselves. Anna finds herself wanting to reconcile with her family and thinks Christmas is a good time to do just that! Kellen agrees to take her home. But, when the visit doesn't go as planned she wonders if she will ever have a place in her family again.

Let me start by saying that Amish fiction isn't what I usually read but wanted to give this little story a try. Boy am I glad I did!! I really liked it! Novellas can sometimes feel too short but not so with this story. It didn't feel hurried at all. It was a very satisfying. The characters were so full of life. I enjoyed watching them work through some tough family issues in a practical way. I loved the interaction between Kellen and Anna Mae. Many times I found myself thinking that Anna Mae was certainly a lucky woman. The message of listening to the Lord and forgiving others was very clear. If you are looking for a wonderful and inspiring Christmas story I would highly recommend you pick up A Plain & Simple Christmas. It's a keeper for me. A thank you goes to LibraryThing Early Reviewers for this complimentary copy for review. For more information about this novella see http://zndr.va/aZaVXl.

Monday, November 15, 2010

THE PROTECTOR by Sharon Balts




Anne Dutton is sailing to the New World with her aunt and uncle whom she has lived with since she was a child. When something happens that causes concern for Anne's safety, her aunt makes a deal with Sir Thomas Blackaby (the handsome man who protected the queen) to protect Anne. Thomas and Anne are to pretend to be courting with the hope that no further trouble will arise. But when hearts are involved things get complicated. For she is promised to another in the New World. And what will happen when the truth of who each of them really is and how their past is connected comes to light?

First let me say that the cover of this book was beautifully done! It made me want to read the book! The story inside was just as well done. Filled with danger, mystery, intrigue and romance, Sharon Balts keeps you guessing to the end, of Anne's fate. The journey starts on a ship and ends on the shores of the New World with all the things that those traveling to this new place might have encountered. Sickness, Indians, sword-fights and those out for revenge are part of the package. I love the way this author so clearly spelled out the Gospel through the entire story as the characters struggle with heart issues such as forgiveness. They battled with knowing what they needed to do but didn't want to. Trusting the Lord can be difficult at times because of our own humanness. Seeing the characters grow was an encouragement to me. This was a great tale and I would definitely recommend it.

Monday, November 8, 2010

HATTERAS GIRL by Alice J. Wisler




Jackie Donovan is a journalist who has been praying for two things. Owning the Bailey House Bed and Breakfast and finding a wonderful man to marry. Imagine her surprise when she interviews the very handsome Davis Erickson, owner and operator of a property management company, and finds he holds the deed to Bailey House. She feels like this whole thing is God sent. But as Jackie begins to learn some unfavorable things about Davis, she wonders if she might be wrong.

This was an enjoyable tale. Loaded with southern charm, a bit of mystery, sweet tea and good friends. It's easy pace guides you along as you journey with Jackie in her quest to own Bailey House and find that certain someone. I enjoyed all the secondary characters. They were an eclectic group from handyman to hairdresser. But they all truly cared for one another. All their interaction was fun to watch. I think the underlying message that 'God answers prayer but it might not be how you think', is a good one. I like the way the story concluded. As a reader it was a very satisfying ending where you say, Ahhh. A Thank you goes to Bethany House for providing me with this complimentary copy for my review.

Friday, November 5, 2010

DINING WITH JOY by Rachel Hauck




Joy Ballard is a chef. At least that's what everyone who watches her show, Dining with Joy, believes. Only a few people know she really can't cook. Her lack of skill is covered by her lively personality and funny sense-of-humor. Luke Redmond is a professional chef who's trying to pick himself up after losing his restaurant. When Joy's producer asks Luke to co-host the show Joy decides this might just be her way out. He cooks, she tells jokes and give humorous tips. Perfect. The chemistry between them is electric and when a spur-of-the-moment searing kiss is caught on tape the demand for them becomes strong. But what will happen when Joy's secret is revealed on national television?

I thoroughly enjoyed Dining with Joy! Rachel Hauck breathes life into her characters and you always feel by the end of the story that they are your good friends. I liked that the author brought back the characters from Sweet Caroline and Love Starts with Elle. It was fun catching up with them. This story was full of difficult situations to overcome but I think the author did a wonderful job in weaving the spiritual message that God is good and God is Love. (Great illustration with the coins). If you've read the previous books, you won't want to miss this installment. You can read it as a stand alone story but the whole series is great fun. This author blends a touch of humor, a dash of romance and a splash of spiritual truth which makes a wonderful recipe for "Dining with Joy". I highly recommend it. Thank you goes to Booksneeze for providing me with this complementary copy for review.

Saturday, October 30, 2010

MAGGIE'S TRUST by Donna Boden




Maggie Davis grew up with a lot of hurt especially from her stepfather. Because of that she decides she'll never marry but instead become a teacher and pour all her love into her students. Jake McCormick will never again trust a woman. Though his first wife is dead she left a lot of scars on Jake's heart. He allows his parents to raise his son, Eli, while he leads wagon trains west. But on one trip home his draw to Maggie becomes very strong. He sees how she relates with his family and especially his son. He sees the sweetness inside her. He wants that but is also afraid that she will turn out to be like his first wife. What happens when promises are made but then broken? Will they allow God to show them the kind of love he desires for them?

Donna Boden is a new author to me and I found "Maggie's Trust" a hard book to put down. From the very beginning you are drawn into the story and it really doesn't let you rest until you're finished. I really liked Maggie. She was so kind and tender. She's a very relate-able character. Jake was a complicated man. He made a bad decision to protect his heart. That's something I'm sure we've all done. I appreciated how the author wove the thread of God's care throughout the story. How he guides our steps and places us where we need to be. You hear lots of good advice from Jake's Aunt Anna, whom Maggie is living with. The way she guides them spiritually in such an unobtrusive way is sweet to watch. I felt the characters were well drawn and I love the whole McCormick family dynamics. I was happy to see by the end of the book that there will be another story called Beth's Dilemma. Beth is Maggie's 1/2 sister. If you like a good prairie story loaded with character conflicts then this is the book for you. I recommend it.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

SHADOWS FROM THE PAST by Ashley Dawn




Aurora Kavvan, an LAPD officer, is continually haunted by the death of her FBI brother, Lance. She blames herself because not only was he killed before her very eyes, but with her gun. This guilt caused her to break her engagement with her fiance, Jordon Reiley, who also was her brother's partner and best friend. When Aurora's partner and best friend Joe is shot while on a stake-out, and another attempt is made on Aurora's life, Jordon comes to comfort her and protect her. Together they try to find who's responsible and also bring down a drug lord they've been after for years. But they find a lot more than they bargained for.

I have not read anything by this author before but I really did enjoy this story. It had action, suspense and romance. It definitely kept me turning pages. I enjoyed all the characters in this story and would really like to see another book about Jordon's brother. The Reiley family was really great! Aurora was a little frustrating in the beginning of the story. I totally understood the guilt of what happened to her brother but it seemed a little unnatural for a police officer to continue with that type of "guilt-ridden" behavior. Once that gets ironed out it starts getting good. The story had a lot of narration to it where I wish there had been more dialog between the characters. The dialog that was there was great. Overall Shadows From the Past was a good story with an timely message of forgiveness. Something we all need to be reminded of. I look forward to hopefully seeing more by this author.

Monday, October 25, 2010

IN THE SHADOW OF EVIL by Robin Caroll




Robin Caroll once again takes you on a journey loaded with mystery, suspense, romance, spiritual truths and lots of twists and turns. In the Shadow of Evil finds you in Eternal Springs, Louisiana. Layla Taylor is a general contractor there who loves her work and is well respected. So why is it that the house she just finished is set a blaze complete with a dead inspector inside? That's what Detective Maddox Bishop (whom we met in Fear No Evil) is trying to find out. He and his partner Houston begin to investigate the crime. Layla seems to be a common thread. Sparks fly when Maddox and Layla meet although there is something that draws them to each other. As incidents continue to escalate will they find who and what they're looking for before it's too late?

Robin just keeps getting better and better! There was so much happening 'In the Shadow of Evil' I was turning pages fast enough to create a breeze! I love how the author allows you into the heads of the main characters so you understand why they are the way they are. Maddox together with his partner Houston were so entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed their easy banter together. I also enjoyed Layla and her sister Alana. They were so supportive of each other, even if they disagreed. They had such kind and loving hearts. Then there was Maddox and Layla. I loved watching these two together as they dealt with all of the complex emotions they had going on. All the characters were very well drawn and added such value to the story. One thing I truly appreciated was the theme of forgiveness. Beginning with God forgiving us and the need to forgive others. That's not always an easy thing to do as you'll see in the story. (I think we can all relate with the struggle to forgive) But sometimes when we take those most difficult steps we gain the greatest blessing. Oh... and watch out for the hair-pin turn at the end. It's a doozy!! Great job Robin! I highly recommend In the Shadow of Evil. A thank you goes to the author and publisher for providing this complimentary copy for my review. It's published by B&H Publishing. It's release date is March 2011.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

EMILY'S CHANCE by Sharon Gillenwater




Emily Rose has never felt like her parents were proud of her. That's one reason she wants to land the position of Museum Curator in a big city museum. Maybe then she will feel worthy. In the meantime setting up the historical museum in Callahan Crossing is good experience. Not to mention she truly has fallen in love with the town, the people and especially the Callahans! Chance Callahan has been waiting for God to send him the right woman. But as they say..."That's a tall horse to saddle"! However, he feels more drawn to Emily than any other woman he's known. As they continue to get to know each other the feelings between them become very strong. So what will happen when Emily's job is done? Visit Callahan Crossing and find out!

Sharon Gillenwater knows how to deliver a romantic story. And I am a sucker for romance. Emily's Chance picks up where Jenna's Cowboy left off. Although you won't feel lost if you haven't read the first book. I love the Callahan Clan. They are such a fun family and so endearing you just want to be a part of them. Yet, they are not without their issues. Chance is a great guy. It's no wonder the girls are after him. He's tender, romantic and funny. But the thing that really draws you in is his moral character. He truly wants to do things right. Emily was strong and independent yet she yearned for someone to love her but was afraid to risk her heart since she has always been disappointed. The story reminds us that we are new creatures in Christ, He makes all things new. Sometimes we need to remember that and not dwell in the past. I found this tale to be filled with lots of good ole sayings that put a smile on my face. If you enjoy a romantic, feel good story with a good spiritual message then I totally recommend Emily's Chance. Can't wait for the next installment! A thank you goes to the author for sending me this book.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

CRITICAL CARE by Candace Calvert




Claire Avery is a skilled ER nurse who watched her brother die while she was on duty. That event made her question and second guess her skills until finally she left her job. Wanting a new start she decides to move to a new place, a new hospital. Her assignment is counseling the staff after a day-care center explosion. That's where she runs into Dr. Logan Caldwell (a.k.a. Dr. McSnarly). He doesn't buy into all the "touch-feely" type counseling. He expects his staff to be as tough as he is. But he finds himself drawn to the woman behind the pamphlets.

Yet another great story from Candace Calvert. I just loved Logan Caldwell. What girl wouldn't. He was McSnarly outside but inside beat a heart of gold. (that needed a little refining)! :) You could definitely understand why Claire felt the way she did and I truly sympathized with her. It would be hard for anyone to face what she did. Erin (the charge nurse & her friend) was a big help. She always tried to be an encouragement to Claire. This story had great balance of drama, action and of course...romance. There were some very romantic moments. I appreciated how the characters struggled with where God was in their trials. I'm sure we've all struggled with that question at times. This is the first book in the Mercy Hospital Series. I have read Disaster Status and Code Triage and I personally would recommend the entire series. I'm looking forward to what this author has for us next!

Book I've Been Reading...

Sherry's bookshelf: read

Almost Like Being in Love
Wanted: Royal Princess Miracle Bride: Royal Hearts of Mondoverde Series, Vol. 3
Her Rancher Bodyguard
Traces of Guilt
The Stronghold
Close to You
Protecting Her Daughter
The Goodbye Bride
The Rancher's First Love
Reclaiming His Past
Keeper of the Stars
Cold Shot
Mermaid Moon
Thin Ice
Buried Secrets
Murder at Black Lake
Christmas With Miss Austen
Falling Like Snowflakes
Married 'til Monday
Second Chance Hero


Sherry's favorite books »