Review of "A Secret to Die For" by Lisa Harris

Lisa Harris' newest book features psychologist Grace Callahan, who is abruptly jerked into a dangerous mystery involving one of her clients. Set in Dallas Texas, the story opens with the recently divorced Grace escaping from an intruder, who wants something that she does not understand.

Detective Nate Quinn is just back on duty following the death of his partner in a bombing that he barely survived. Dealing with both survivor's guilt, a new partner, and the rigors of a new case, he is surprised to be back in contact with Grace. He was good friends with Grace's ex-husband in college, and is startled to find that they are no longer married. Nate is drawn to protect Grace for reasons he does not yet understand - and time is running out for them to solve the dangerous mystery.

I have always enjoyed Lisa Harris' books; although this one is no exception, it won't make it to my favorites list from her. This was primarily due to the repeated near escapes our main characters had, which at some point seemed over the top and did not ring completely true for me. However, the characters have depth and potential. I do still recommend this book - perhaps you will see the drawbacks I mention much differently! And, I highly recommend the author's other books, especially the Nikki Boyd and Southern Crimes series.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Baker Publishing Group in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review of "As the Tide Comes In" by Cindy Woodsmall, Erin Woodsmall

Author Cindy Woodsmall is known primarily for her Amish fiction; this is her first contemporary fiction novel, set primarily on St. Simons Island. Co-authored with her daughter in law Erin, this book features two main characters: Tara Abbot, who has just experienced a terrible tragedy, and firefighter Gavin Burnside - he just lost his father and is also in the middle of a serious financial crisis.

With Gavin's "four Mamas" (the Glynn Girls) and Tara's best friends, (Elliott and Hadley) there are interesting supporting characters. The authors have added rich family histories - even the families that are not fully blood; and there's even a little bit of mystery. I am finding it a challenge to completely describe the storyline without giving too much away, as it really is a very layered book with many sub plots and expansion into the background of the supporting cast.

Overall, I will say that I enjoyed this book and felt this was a fine first outing into this genre for the authors. There were several plot points and dialogue that seemed just slightly odd/off, or just didn't ring FULLY true for me. I didn't think the mystery was at all hard to figure out and the resolution was expected; also, some of Tara's behaviors felt inconsistent and mildly annoying rather than creating empathy - but again, overall the story was interesting and I believe this book is worth reading.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review of "A Daring Venture" by Elizabeth Camden

Let's just get this out there, I am practically predisposed to like any of Elizabeth Camden's books, because her writing so clearly paints a picture of the historical time she is featuring. Her characters are lively and interesting, witty repartee abounds, and I am usually happy with how things have turned out when I finish one of her books.

This book is no exception. The second in her Empire State series, in this (still standalone, but you will definitely enjoy it even more if you read the first one...first) installment we meet Dr. Rosalind Werner who is initially at odds with Nicholas Drake who we first met in "A Dangerous Legacy".

Borne from personal tragedy, Dr. Werner is passionate about ending waterborne diseases and has found -and proven- that there is a safe solution. However, she knows she must convince those in power that it will work; and she also knows that for Nicholas Drake to believe in the solution and then choose to back it would be a major momentum shift. When Rosalind and Nicholas meet for the first time they realize an immediate connection, but they are repeatedly reminded of all the obstacles against them. There's a mystery and some danger, too! Will they partner together? Will public opinion change?

You'll have to get this book to find out! And I wholeheartedly recommend that you do.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.