Review of "Castle on the Rise" by Kristy Cambron

Kristy Cambron is one of my favorite authors; I devour her books and they are usually feel life changing. That being said, this book was an exception and I still haven't gotten a handle on what the issue was for me. I enjoyed the first book in the series, but had a difficult time getting going with this one - I think I read the first two chapters about six separate times before I finally pressed on to finish it. I struggled with bouncing around between three timelines and ultimately found it challenging to fully engage with any one of them. (Although I generally like books with split time....this one felt like I was always missing something; whether it was context or connection, I am not sure.)

It even took me forever to write this review because I couldn't figure out how to articulate all of this. I truly think she is an excellent writer. And, I didn't know a lot about the Irish War of Independence and really appreciated learning more about that time in history. I very much appreciated the tie in towards the end for all three timelines and found it to be quite clever.

My final word is that this book should be one that you read it and decide for yourself. The author is generally great, and you may not suffer from the same frame of mind that I did - so get it and make your own decision!

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Lake Season" by Denise Hunter

When I first read the summary of this new series by one-of-my-favorite-authors-Denise-Hunter, I was extra excited....what a fun premise! I will tell you up front, I was not disappointed and can't wait for the next book.

The Bennett siblings (Adults Levi and Molly, high school senior Grace) are still reeling from the unexpected death of their beloved parents, who were in the process of renovating their historic house to open an inn that was to be their retirement. After some pleading and contemplation, Levi and Molly agree to stay in Bluebell, finish the renovations, and open the Bluebell Inn for a while to allow Grace to finish high school.

Adam Bradford is a successful author who writes under a pseudonym. Through a series of amusing mistaken identity events, he winds up staying at the Bluebell Inn prior to their soft opening. Molly, a devoted reader of all Nathaniel Quinn novels (two guesses as to who Nathaniel Quinn really is) might be drawn to Adam but is still recovering from a painful dishonest relationship. She has sworn she will never be taken in again by anyone or anything that is less than truthful.

When Molly finds an old letter wedged behind the old mail slot (from when the historical house was the post office!) she is determined to return it to it's rightful recipient. With some "past days" woven in to complete the story, this book is a treat of whimsical mystery and romance and fun. It is easy to recommend this book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "A Pursuit of Home" by Kristi Ann Hunter

The third book in the Haven Manor series, reading "A Pursuit of Home" was definitely bittersweet! I loved it - but also knew every page I read brought me closer to the likely ending of this great series. Note: your experience with this book will be greatly enriched by reading the other books in the series first. That being said, I can also make a case for it being a standalone if it were absolutely necessary.

We first met our heroine, Jess, in the other books. She has always been somewhat of a mystery. With a quick wit and sharp tongue, Jess still won our hearts with her fierce love for her friends and protective nature mixed with some wry humor. This book opens with a flashback of sorts that gives a bit of insight into why she has always been so closed off - mainly due to dangerous necessity (no spoilers here, though). :)

Art expert Derek Thornbury knows he is not Jess's favorite. He is therefore especially baffled when she asks for his assistance in first translating a diary and then using his exceptional knowledge of art and history to solve her mystery - and save a country.

Hilarity ensues. This entire series is a must read! The supporting cast (many main characters in the other books) are a delight. The author's fresh voice and approach to historical fiction (all of her books) are well worth your investment of time and money.

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

Review of "Every Stolen Breath" by Kimberly Gabriel

A thrilling debut from author Kimberly Gabriel, "Every Stolen Breath" has a double meaning (like all the best titles do) :)

Main character Lia Finch will not rest until she exposes the source of The Swarm, a vigilante mob who murdered her father two years ago. Although she is doing everything she can think of, Lia is limited in her efforts because not only are her lungs compromised, trusting anyone at this point could be deadly.

Enter Ryan, connected somehow - but he still keeps rescuing Lia from dangerous situations. As Lia starts to connect the dots to unravel the mystery, the risk grows exponentially higher and may even affect the loved ones she has left. With an atypical storyline, numerous twists and turns (a big enough one I actually got upset for a minute), and engaging characters, this novel is a good read that I am happy to recommend.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Blink Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Whose Waves These Are" by Amanda Dykes

This was such an interesting book! Nothing cookie cutter or formulaic here. Set almost entirely on the coast of Maine, the book opens in the fall of 1944 with the Bliss Family.....the war is in progress and decisions must be made -  and when the unthinkable later occurs, no one is prepared for the fallout.

Ann Bliss returns to the place she spent the best summer of her life as a child with her Great Uncle Bob, and quickly finds out just how much has changed - but the core of her childhood touchpoints are still there. When she meets local Jeremiah Fletcher (Fletch) they begin to work together to help the ailing Bob - and they may just solve a long held family mystery.

Bouncing back and forth between 1944 and 2001, it took me a minute to sort out how everything connected, but when I did, things quickly began to make a great deal of sense. With a cast of interesting characters and beautiful prose, this is a thought provoking and richly descriptive book. The premise is unique, and the unveiling of just how it all does finally connect created a very happy and satisfying ending. I will gladly recommend this book by this first time author.

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

Review of "Fire Storm" by Nancy Mehl

The second book in the Kaely Quinn Profiler series, we pick up where book one left off. Kaely's estranged mom is very sick (cancer) and although she has numerous reservations, she goes to help her brother care for her. Although not in town in any official capacity, trouble seems to find Kaely when a series of suspicious fires set off her radar.

Kaely's FBI partner Noah Hunter returns for this installment, and more about her relationship with her brother and mother are also revealed. As the majority of this story is set during a time she is technically not working, the author found some interesting ways to solve the mystery which was developed (appropriately) slowly. As always, I found myself trying to figure out as early as possible just who the antagonist was and how all the dots connected - but the ending was surprising and not obvious, even in hindsight. The author provided ample twists and turns for a satisfying conclusion. I am already looking forward to the next book in this series!

PS: If you have not already read the first book (Mind Games), get them both and make sure to read them in order. There is just too much depth and backstory introduced in book one; read it first!

I was provided a copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "The Spice King" by Elizabeth Camden

The first book in the author's new "Hope and Glory" series, we meet the spirited Annabelle Larkin - on a mission to right the wrongs of the world and learn how to help her family. She has left the farm in Kansas to come to Washington DC with her recently blinded sister, Elaine. While working for the Smithsonian as a botanist, her fascination of the plant world and drive to help her family leads her to seek out a meeting with the reclusive and successful "Spice King".

Gray Delacroix (The Spice King) is a man of many hidden depths. As a successful businessman, he has traveled the world multiple times to grow the family company while in pursuit of righting his own wrongs. Now back home, Gray (who is a fair amount older than his siblings) is learning to interact and communicate with them on a very different level. I really enjoyed seeing how their relationships changed from the beginning of the story to what they became in the end.

When Gray and Annabelle clash over some VERY strong principles, can their relationship survive? What will happen to Gray's brother, Luke? Will Annabelle and Elaine's parents accept the changes this new life brings?

This book is set during such a fascinating time in history. I especially enjoyed being able to take a peek behind the scenes at Good Housekeeping as well as learning about the evolving food industry. The witty repartee, the well written conflict, the family ties and deep relationships, even the villains - all combine to create a beautiful recipe for a wonderful book; one I am delighted to recommend!

I was provided a copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "State of Lies" by Siri Mitchell

Having been a longtime fan of author Mitchell, I was delighted to see a new book from her, as well as one that was in a modern (and somewhat unusual for her) setting. Who writes fiction suspense about a quantum physicist (who is a woman, no less?) with political and government overtones? Siri Mitchell, that's who.

When Georgie's husband Sean goes out 'for a part to fix the sink', he never returns. She is heartbroken to learn he was killed in a hit-and-run. With the support of her parents (father is a four star General currently nominated for Secretary of Defense; mother, a former beauty queen and purveyor of all things proper) and some dear friends and neighbors, George and their young son Sam try to move on with their lives. But when odd and unnerving things begin to happen, Georgie starts to connect some dots...but she can't wrap her brilliant mind around what these things could possibly add up to.

With a number of plot twists, only everyone is suspect (ok, everyone but Sam). I found myself thinking about the ending for days. I am still not sure if I liked how things wrapped up, but I am certain I am glad I read this book. Read it for yourself and write your own review!

This book was provided to me by Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "The Number of Love" by Roseanna M. White

In the first of a new series, "The Codebreakers", this book has ties to the author's Shadows Over England series. Featuring a more mature Margot de Wilde, little sister of Lukas de Wilde from "A Song Unheard", I found it not only fun to catch up a little with Lukas and Willa but interesting to see what was next for Margot.

Margot has been working as a codebreaker in Room 40 for her country and enjoys the way that God talks to her through numbers. In spite of her age (17), her unique mind is critical to England's war efforts. She also has a very close relationship with her mom - after all, it's been just the two of them for some time - but no true friends. Margot wants to get an education, not get married; the other girls just can't relate. While at work one night she cracks the code of communications about spy number 18, and feels an overwhelming and urgent need to pray for him. She has also encountered some strange newcomers to the neighborhood - are they friend, or foe?

Drake Elton meets Margot when he brings his sister to Room 40 for an interview for secretary. He is intrigued with her answers to his casual questions but immediately leaves to return to the field, deep undercover as he works to prevent a biological attack. When he is wounded, he returns to England and eventually to the care of his sister, Margot's new friend.

With many strong subplots, sweet romance, and a mystery that kept me guessing almost to the end, I happily recommend this book. Also, if you have not read any of the author's other series I highly recommend those as well! Starting with the Shadows Over England books first will only enrich your enjoyment of this one, but it can easily be read alone.

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

Review of "We Were Bautiful" by Heather Hepler

Although guilt, doubt, and family disconnect are typical YA fiction story topics, rarely are they rooted in the primary cause of this story. Nor are they always handled so deftly as they are by author Heather Hepler. The cause of guilt and disconnect are revealed slowly, and the story's pacing and development are well done; I felt curious rather than impatient or annoyed. Our heroine Mia is experiencing some serious situations - but she is interesting and creates empathy rather than being pitied and depressing. This is a difficult topic to address, and Mia's situation is certainly a big deal, to be sure - but the story ends with hope that is messy but still real.

When Mia Hopkin's sister Rachel dies in a tragic accident, her family completely falls apart. Mia was also seriously scarred (both body and emotions). Although she can't remember much of anything about the accident or it's surrounding circumstances, she knows she is to blame.

Mia unhappily goes to New York for the summer to stay with a grandmother she's never met, and immediately starts a job at a diner as a baker's assistant. Yet with all of these major challenges and huge life changes, she is still willing to cautiously try new things. The "flavor" of the city and the diner and huge Brunelli family that embrace Mia, along with the budding relationship with her grandmother and some rich new friendships - all are well written, believable, and interesting.

I truly enjoyed this book. It was thought provoking with tender and laugh out loud moments. It is easy to recommend this book!

I was provided a complimentary copy by Blink Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "A Return of Devotion" by Kristi Ann Hunter

The second in the Haven Manor series featuring a group of women in daunting circumstances who grow and persevere in spite of all they face!

When the owner of the estate Daphne Blakemoore has lived in for more than a decade arrives (his identity and timing are unexpected) she is completely thrown off guard. He is the spitting image of the child she has loved and raised - yet she knows with great certainty he is not the father. She also recognizes that the second now 13 year old Benedict sees him, serious questions and hurt will abound. Daphne has never told Benedict that she is not just his caregiver - she is his mother - but now that Lord Chemsford is here, that difficult conversation and some heartbreak is unavoidable.

Lord Chemsford arrives at the estate with the expectation to renovate and live there full time. He is quite startled by Daphne's strange initial reaction to him along with the decided lack of staff, but is willing to wait and see how things go. He quickly realizes that all is not it seems at Haven House, but the more he learns of Daphne the more he wants to continue being surprised by her.

I know I am always a big proponent of reading series books in order; I have to point out that it is especially important for this series. There's just a tremendous amount of backstory that will enrich your experience. I love the way the author manages to combine a clear picture of how it may have been in a previous time in history along with clever dialogue, hard situations, rich relationships, and a great story. I enthusiastically recommend this book.

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

Review of "Never Let Go" by Elizabeth Goddard

Willow Anderson is a forensic geologist who has just suffered some tragic losses in her life. When her beloved grandfather, mentor, and business partner dies in an accident (but was it really an accident?) she decides she will finish the last case he accepted. When it immediately becomes clear that Willow is now being targeted, she cautiously agrees to accept former boyfriend Austin McKade's help to solve the case - and try to stay alive.

Ex-FBI Agent Austin has his own family issues. Even though it's been two years since he and Willow were together, he has never truly moved on. But when the search to solve the mystery takes him near home and family, he is forced to confront all of the emotions he's thus far been unwilling to face. But who can he trust? And are there truly any coincidences? How are all of these threads connected?

I enjoyed this book (the first I've read from this author) and am looking forward to the next in the Uncommon Justice series, "Always Look Twice". I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Baker Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "On a Summer Tide" by Suzanne Woods Fisher

So to be frank, this book started out as just a tiny bit too quirky for me. The characters seemed uneven, and the supposedly modern young women (all 19+) used languaging that didn't seem to fit today's vernacular. But as the book unfolded and some mysteries were revealed (that I definitely did not see coming), I grew to love this story.

Sisters Cam, Madison, and Blaine are very different. Their father Paul, a sports broadcaster who's lost his voice (!) loves them but doesn't totally understand them. Their mother passed away a few years ago, and they won't talk about it - at least, not with each other. All three of the sisters are trying to figure out their place in the world, and they are all so different. They've realized since her passing that their mom was the glue - and they are all fumbling quite a bit.

Paul decides (on a whim, as far as the girls are concerned!) to buy a campground on a small island on the coast of Maine where he met their mother, fulfilling a life long dream. The sisters are sure that he's lost it but decide they should go with him to check it out, certain he needs to be saved from himself. They quickly discover things are in worse shape than they even imagined, but the community and lifestyle soon reveals they just may find everything they've ever needed - together.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Sweet on You" by Becky Wade

I love the sisters. I love these books. I was simultaneously excited and giddy and sad, because the publication of this novel means the series is now over and there will be no more Bradford Sister stories. Side note: I am always happy to see a new Becky Wade book on the horizon but it incites some feelings of impending sadness because once I start to read it that means it will soon be over and then I'll have to wait who knows how long for another one. But I guess if she published books each month or whatever, I would never get anything done in life so it works out.

And we must go on. So here is my review of Britt's story:

Youngest sister Britt Bradford has been best friends with Zander Ford for oh, essentially forever. She has been his staunchly loyal friend, champion, partner in crime, and biggest fan since freshman year in high school. Zander's back story is rich and deep, and Britt is one of only a few in his heart's inner circle.

Adult Britt is an expert chocolatier with possible relationship commitment issues ;) and spends her days creating and running her chocolate shop, Sweet Art. Adult Zander is an author with a best selling book, which allowed him the opportunity to travel the world and fulfill some longtime dreams. He also needed to get away to really figure out what to do with his feelings for Britt. His trip is cut short when his uncle/adopted father dies unexpectedly, and he comes home to a mystery.

Britt refuses to consider/acknowledge/admit the possibility that Zander could love her as more than a friend (everyone else knows), because she is certain it would ruin their friendship....she can't live a moment without any connection to him, so she spends very little time being honest with herself. Also might Britt have some God trust issues? Zander is also unwilling to put it all out there because he has decided being her friend is better than having nothing, and the risk is too great.

The dialogue is witty, snappy, fun, meaningful, laugh out loud inducing...I could go on and on. The story is rich and deep with a satisfying ending. The mystery element is great and adds to the story.

I know I preach this all the time but you simply have to read all of the books in order. If you are considering adding this book to your TBR pile, get all three. Also download the prequel, "Then Came You: a Bradford Sisters Novella", and then binge read them in order. Go! Hurry up! Get them all!

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

Review of "No Place Like Here" by Christina June

I have really enjoyed all of the books by this author. They are fun and meaningful and lighthearted while still sending home some life lesson messages - all without being overly heavy. I also love how each of the books are standalone but still connected, and as always, will recommend that you read THEM ALL in order.

When Ashlyn Zanotti finds out her dad has been sentenced to prison for tax evasion, her carefully crafted "comeback" falls apart. As she is finishing up a year at boarding school (where she was forced to go as a consequence for something she didn't even do) her plans to get back to her regular life are completely derailed. Her mom sinks into a deep depression and requires treatment, so she can't go home for the summer. Ashlyn is then told she will be living with relatives she barely knows, and working hard at a wilderness retreat center - all so she can have a good line on her college resume.

Ashlyn reluctantly cooperates, but inside she is really struggling. Even with all of the huge expectations placed on her, she tries to be brave and mostly succeeds. But will she ever be able to communicate honestly with her parents - and more importantly, will they listen? Will Ashlyn find both her place in her life and the family, and even a passion for her future?

This book was well written and interesting. It was a fun read but with deeper meaning. The author managed to find a balance without hitting you over the head with the life lessons, and the ending was satisfying. I am happy to recommend this book for teens and adults alike!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Blink Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Convergence" by Ginny Yttrup

Here is my (first ever!) bullet point review:

This book totally messed with my mind (primarily in a good way).

I was kept guessing throughout - but I will say, when it came down to the final chapters I discovered that was right all along! :)

I appreciated the author's first foray into suspense. It was well done overall.

I was especially thrown off for a long time (likely intentionally) by the "back cover" synopsis - it took me forever to make sense of it all, to connect the dots.

Main character Denilyn Rossi is interesting and compelling. She has truly been traumatized and you are rooting for her the whole way through. She's not unrealistically tough OR wimpy/whiny/does not play the victim...even though she of course is.

I will gladly recommend this book!

I was provided a complimentary copy of Convergence by Shiloh Run Press in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "The Last Year of the War" by Susan Meissner

I have long enjoyed Susan Meissner's books; always something different, they make you think, I often find myself "living" with her characters in my brain and on my mind for a while after I am done reading. This book was no exception.

Teenager Elise Sontag is living a content and hopeful life in Iowa with her parents and younger brother. When her beloved father is taken away by the police for his ties to native Germany, her family is devastated and soon moves to live with him in an interment camp. There Elise meets Mariko Inoue from Los Angeles. Even though their parents are legal US residents, are in no way sympathizers with the enemies in the war, and both families dearly love America, they and many like them are exchanged with POW's and returned to their "home" country. Elise was born in the United States, does not speak German, and the family is unwittingly being sent directly to a war zone.

The book bounces back and forth between present day Elise (in her 80's with Alzheimer's that she has named Agatha, after a girl in school who stole things) and the story of their friendship. Her journey takes many twist and turns, many of them quite unexpected. The author deftly weaves the two together in a way that keeps you engaged and reveals things at a perfect pace.

This book was thought provoking, eye opening to a part of history I knew little about, and engaging all the way through. I highly recommend it.

I was provided a copy of this book by Berkley Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "The Inn at Hidden Run" by Olivia Newport

A split time novel, and first in a series.

Present day:
Genealogist and coffee purist (there is a lot of food talk in this book, in fact) Jillian lives with her father Nolan in the small mountain town of Canyon Mines. Her mother died when she was a teenager, and she works from home at her thriving business creating family trees, among other things. Her lawyer father is a skilled negotiator and mediator. Her best friend Nia owns a local Inn/B&B, and Nia has just spontaneously hired the clearly-in-crisis-but-they-don't-know-from-what-yet, Meri Davies.

1878 Memphis:
When yellow fever attacks the city, people are dying left and right -and at the cost of all good sense, Eliza is determined to help in any way she can. She partners with the Sisters and pitches in, taking food and providing aid to numerous ill and dying families around the city. When her close friend and housekeeper Callie leaves to help her sister's family, Eliza is alarmed when she doesn't hear any word.


I did find the 'quick' connection of Nia and Nolan to Meri somewhat unusual; I won't go quite as far as to say it was unbelievable, but their deep emotional investment in helping Meri was unusual. Perhaps that was the point.

Also, I found Meri to be a little too abrasive for my personal preference. I found her slightly off putting rather than sympathetic. I loved the 'small town' friendships, and overall I enjoyed this book. I am looking forward to the second one in the series (teaser chapter at end that was intriguing!) But just how are these two timelines and stories connected? You'll have to read all the way to the end to find out!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Barbour Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Breach of Trust by Rachel Dylan

This is the third book in the author's Atlanta Justice series.

When lawyer Mia Shaw's close friend and co-worker Chase is murdered, a series of odd and dangerous events follow that lead her to question if there is a connection. Mia (who is hoping to make partner) is then given the case Chase was working on before he died. When danger follows, she wonders if it's more than she can handle. 

Noah Ramirez is a founding partner of a private security firm with Cooper Knight and Landon James (subjects of first two books). Initially Mia does not trust him, but begins to realize he is a stand up guy who only has her best interests in mind.

I have read all three books in this series and did enjoy them overall. You can easily read this one as a standalone novel; however, it might have been my least favorite. I was frustrated initially by Mia's choice to decide a certain party was guilty - even with little to no evidence - and I then felt like it took her too long to adjust, even with her background and knowledge. Certainly she would have been emotionally involved, but it still seemed out of character and I just couldn't fully connect with her or the story after that. However, the mystery is good, the culprit not obvious, and it ends well.

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

Review of "We Hope for Better Things" by Erin Bartels

The debut from author Erin Bartels, this novel is incredibly thought provoking and engaging.

Alternating between three points of view and two primary locations (Detroit and Lapeer County, Michigan) we meet present day, Elizabeth Balsam; her aunt, Nora Balsam both present day and 1963; and their ancestor Mary Balsam, 1861-1975.

Elizabeth Balsam is a reporter who was recently fired for something beyond her control. Finding herself at loose ends and wondering what she will do next, she is commissioned to connect with her distant Aunt Nora by a man who wants to return something he knows Nora won't accept from him. Elizabeth, sensing a link to a story that could be her breakthrough, goes to stay with Aunt Nora - both to help her in any way she can and also take some time to figure out her next steps. Nora (both present day and 1963) has quite a layered history, and lives in the family estate in Lapeer County.

Mary Balsam's husband Nathaniel is determined to fight for the Union in the Civil War, even though his wife is pregnant and they have a farm to run. He leaves for long periods of time. Although Nathaniel and Mary are both are committed to the cause and passionate about freedom, this decision ultimately kicks off a complicated series of events. These events are at best heartbreaking and at worst, dangerous.

Although I initially wondered if I would truly be able to clearly follow bouncing back and forth between times and still connect the dots on who is related to who and how it all fit together....I know now that the author did an excellent job of linking people and time frames to create a cohesive and meaningful picture. There are surprises, heartbreaks, challenges, and more. This story provides believable glimpses into poignant and important times in our country's history.

I cannot say enough good things about this book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "One Thing I Know" by Kara Isaac

Please read this review through the following filter:

I have ready every single book by Kara Isaac. WITHOUT EXCEPTION I HAVE LOVED THEM ALL...so it truly pains me to say that I cannot in good conscience tell you that I loved this one. I was so eager to read this book, and may have even jumped up and down a bit when it became available. I very much wanted to write this review and sing it's praises, but the ending won't let me.

Although Rachel Somers is the author of a number of incredibly successfully relationship books, due to a traumatic event (not revealed until much later in the story) her Aunt Donna is the author of record. "Dr. Donna" is beloved and respected with many books on the best-selling list, but the deadline for their latest book is fast approaching - and Rachel's got exactly nothing. But she knows that she will do anything to keep the advance and ensure the deadline is met.

Lucas Grant hosts a sports-focused radio show, and his end game goal is syndication. When his professional connection to Dr. Donna is tapped by a successful Hollywood producer who is convinced there's a scandal to be found in her past, will Lucas investigate, even though he likes Donna (and the fact that he is falling in love with her niece/assistant, Rachel)? And how will he and Rachel work things out when the relationship on both sides has been built on a house of false cards?

Side note: this is the first (to my knowledge) of the author's books a) set fully in the United States, and b) does not have any connection to her other standalone books.

Ultimately I struggled with several things: The length of time some of the mysteries were revealed seemed too drawn out. When the secrets and their reasons finally came to light, the fallout felt incredibly extreme. I then felt irritated and frustrated by the hypocrisy of one character, and the subsequent quick "forgiveness" or acceptance of the other. Ultimately my view was just too colored by this ending that left me so wanting, and I was quite dissatisfied.

However, please remember two things: I've loved (actually loved) every other book she has written. You may not feel so aggravated by the ending, so really, you should still read it for yourself. :)

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Howard Books in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Summer by the Tides" by Denise Hunter

In this standalone novel by a favored author, Denise Hunter, our heroine Maddy Monroe has recently experienced a major dose of trauma when her boyfriend Nick betrays her. Not only does Nick cheat on her with another woman, he simultaneously steals the promotion she has long been working for. The next day, Maddy receives an urgent call from her beloved grandmother's neighbor, Connor Sullivan. He says her grandmother is missing - and could she come to Seahaven right away? Little does Maddie know that Connor has also reached out to her two sisters, who have long been estranged...and they are also on their way to Seahaven and the family cottage.

Connor is a local businessman and widower. Largely due to her recent heartbreak, Maddie also fosters a distrust of men (in general it seems) but this leads her to make several snap judgments about Connors' motives as well as make some assumptions about his relationships.

I think I have read (if not all, then most) of Denise Hunter's books. I almost always want to rave about them. I found this one to be a total departure from her usual style or "voice", if you will. I can't say I loved it fully, as I usually do. I didn't dislike it either; it was an interesting story, in a lovely setting, with a satisfying conclusion. Beyond that mild endorsement, I will simply encourage you to check it out for yourself.

I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Code of Valor" by Lynette Eason

Book three in the Blue Justice series opens with Officer Brady St. John, who is on vacation at a lake house in an attempt to get his head on straight from a recent rough patch. When forensic accountant Emily Chastain appears on the lake -trapped in a boat with her kidnapper- Brady rescues her, and their adventure begins.

It's quickly apparent that Emily was targeted for something far bigger than she knows, and she and Brady are forced to go on the offensive. With attacks on every side, connections to human trafficking, greed, and numerous revenge plots, it's even possible that more than one mystery is at play here. Will Emily and Brady make it out alive? Will their past traumas allow them to see the other for who they really are? Can they learn to trust again?

Must be the season for book threes! As always, my opinion on reading the series in order stands. However, this book includes only a few small references to previous books and I believe it can be read without the first two, if necessary. As always, your experience is far enhanced by reading them in order. I will gladly recommend all three books in this series.

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

Review of "Secrets at Cedar Cabin" by Colleen Coble

The third in the Lavender Tides series, nurse Bailey Fleming is having a rough go of it lately. After realizing she has been victimized by a narcissistic rock star (who married her only for what she would give him-and that he was committing bigamy by marrying her in the first place), she learns that her recently deceased mother was likely murdered. Now Bailey is being hunted and has to go on the run - and through an unexpected turn of events, she heads to Lavender Tides.

FBI agent Lance Phoenix is relentlessly searching for his sister Ava, who he strongly believes was trafficked as a teen. He is convinced she is still alive, with ties to Washington state. Acting on a tip that the traffickers have ties to Cedar Cabin in Lavender Tides, Lance poses as Bailey's neighbor so he can keep an eye on the area.

We are also given glimpses of Bailey's adversary, the nefarious King and his right hand man Chey. Throw in an elderly neighbor with possible Alzheimer's, an exotic pet cat, a suspicious holding company, and a crazy snowstorm, we have the makings of a great mystery!

I would strongly encourage you to read the first two books, as many of the supporting characters and plot points are woven in from the previous installments in the series. Your experience with this book will be very enriched. by reading them in order - and as all three books are solid, you'll be very happy about that decision!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Mind Games" by Nancy Mehl

The first in the exciting new Kaely Quinn Profiler series!

FBI Special Agent Kaely Quinn's unusual background (her father was a serial killer) and creative process for profiling (she 'has dinner' with her unknown suspects as part of her process) have kept her at a distance from the rest of the world. Her unique skill set, combined with a passionate focus on her work, allows very little time for friendships of any kind.

When the St. Louis FBI office receives a "eulogy for Kaely Quinn" poem, they quickly realize there is likely a budding serial killer on the loose - and the killer's end game is Kaely's death. Recently widowed Special Agent Noah Hunter is assigned to lead the case; he is initially leery to partner with Kaely - and more than a little curious - but is determined to be professional and work with her to figure it out.

 

Although I did have my suspicions on who the culprit eventually was, I was truly kept guessing up until the literal last minute. I also loved all of the unexpected and very clever surprises that were sprinkled throughout the book, especially at the end. This is not the usual crime/FBI/suspense novel - it is extra creative, interesting, and just plain good overall. I can't wait for the second book!

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

Reveiw of "Becoming Us" by Robin Jones Gunn

Let me lead by saying this is one of the best books I have read in a long time...and that's saying something, because I read quite a bit. So it's probably no surprise that this is going to be a positive review. :)

Set in Costa Mesa (right next to Newport Beach!), this story focuses on  Emily Winslow, a new acquaintance of Christy Miller's good friend, Jennalyn. Recently relocated with her husband and daughter to the West Coast, Emily is introduced to 'the group' at one of Jennalyn's gatherings. She is initially reluctant to connect but when a surprising emergency occurs, she decides it is worth the risk. The book follows the story of her family, friendships, and finding her purpose.

The thing that stood out to me the most about this book was what I will call its positive realism. The author portrays Emily's struggles in a very real and healthy way. Emily acknowledges them, is trying to understand and grow, and doesn't choose to be constantly whiny or negative. Nor are we forced to suffer through a pie in the sky fanciful solution, either.

The author is famous for having connection points between all of her books, and there's no exception here! Longtime favorites Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen are both supporting characters; you'll even find Mr. and Mrs. Miller have a role to play, and so do Uncle Bob and Aunt Marti. RJG fans will be very happy to catch up on what's new - and the new readers will enjoy meeting them.

RJG has also long been the master of finding wonder in simple things. She creates stories rooted in regular, everyday happenings - yet they seem so special. The friendships she portrays are relationships that you wish existed in your life. I will emphatically recommend this book! The writing is excellent, the story is relatable, and I truly believe your life will be enriched by reading it.

I was provided a copy of this book from Waterbrook & Multnomah Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review of " Who I Am With You" by Robin Lee Hatcher

Jessica Mason is shell shocked when her husband of discloses his affair and says he is going to leave her. A short time later, he and their six year old daughter, Angela, get into a fatal car accident while running an errand....and Jessica is not only heartbroken, but finds out she is pregnant shortly thereafter. She has been holed up at home; working, resting, and attempting to heal.

Ridley Chesterfield is in Hope Springs to escape. Staying in his parent's vacation home, he is healing from his own trauma. When Ridley meets his new neighbor Jessica, he is drawn to her, and their friendship develops slowly....but eventually, he will have to go back to the real world. Or can he make it work to see what develops with Jessica?

The book also bounces back and forth to tell the story of Jessica's Great Grandpa Andrew, set in the Depression. The author uses Andrew's numerous (and sometimes surprising) life experiences to draw some parallels and subtle conclusions that are very current.

Robin Lee Hatcher's books are always thought provoking and heart warming, and this one is no exception. I gladly recommend this book! If you haven't read any of her others please check them out as well. 

I was given a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.