Review of "Dear Josephine" by Caroline George

This was a promising plot, and the author took an interesting approach. The cover is gorgeous, and the idea, fascinating; my takeaway from it all is that when I finished the book, I was....confused. I've been trying to write this review for some time and have struggled to articulate my thoughts, especially as I didn't want to give any spoilers. I think the bottom line is that I kept waiting for a clever connection point and didn't find it. (My disclaimer is that without choosing to re-read the entire book I'm not sure if I just missed it, or it simply wasn't there.)

Told through a series of emails, texts, and letters PLUS a manuscript - it's a lot! There are also two timelines: present day with Josie, who primarily emails with her friend Faith. She also texts with her mom, estate caretakers/surrogate grandparents, and Oliver. The second timeline is 200 years ago: a gentleman named Elias Roch has written letter after letter to the elusive Josephine (who has numerous similarities to our girl Josie). Elias has also written a novel, and I think that is where I got lost. I couldn't keep it straight between the Elias letters (reality) and his novel (not reality per se but....suggestive of something? Maybe? Again, it's possible that I missed the point entirely.)

There were definitely very cute moments and sweet spots in some of the relationships. Humor abounds. It just didn't seem to fully come together. Maybe you could read it and we could chat? Then you would be able to tell me if the book needed more editing or I am just lacking a little imagination. :)

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

Review of "The Promised Land" by Elizabeth Musser

Abbie, at her very core, is a planner. A thinker-aheader. Over the years, she has taken the best qualities of this personality style too far - alienating her family, especially husband Bill. Their son Bobby decides to take a gap year before college to study art abroad and Bill takes a consulting contract in a different state. When he tells Abbie he also "needs a break," she is not only blindsided, she is gutted and can't wrap her head around how any of it will turn out in real life.

The author bounces back and forth between Abbie and Bobby's points of view, which provides crucial insight into the big picture. While in Europe, Bobby decides he wants to travel The Camino with his new friend Rasa, and Abbie decides to walk with them. They are joined by Caroline (an old family friend's sister), who is working out her own trauma on this pilgrimage (her point of view is added when she arrives on the scene).

This book is technically number three in a grouping (The Swan House novels); although I had read the first two, it's been a minute. I do think it would have enriched my experience further to have read them in order, and closer together.

This really was an excellent book, one I will be thinking and talking about for a long time. I am delighted to recommend it. It was a pleasure to read and I wholeheartedly want you to enjoy it, too.

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

Review of "The Escape" by Lisa Harris

This is the first book in the author's US Marshals series. US Marshal Madison James is still recovering from her husband's death five years later. Although his murder has never been solved, a black rose appears every year on his gravestone. This year is different: she finds one on her pillow and begins to wonder if the killer's agenda is unfinished. Simultaneously, Maddie's former Marshal instructor Jonas Quinn arrives in Seattle and they are tapped to escort two high risk prisoners by plane. When the plane crashes, one prisoner dies - but the other escapes. Maddie and Jonas are now in the pursuit of their lives.

With plenty of plot twists the ending is a clear set up for the next book, which I am eager to read. :)

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

Review of "Burden of Proof" by Davis Bunn

Davis Bunn is such an interesting writer. If you haven't yet, I hope you will check out his other books as well....there are always interesting twists and turns that make the story have that little bit EXTRA.

Ethan and his brother Adrian were very close growing up. When Adrian was murdered decades ago, Ethan has always felt responsible, believing he could have prevented it. Fast forward to present day: Ethan is terminal - living out what is likely his last few months in a relatively peaceful way, when he is contacted by his former sister in law Sonya and her daughter Delia. They claim to have a way for him to change the past....if he takes it he probably has nothing to lose and possibly eternity to gain. What follows is a fascinating story of science, intrigue, love, and deep regret that asks the question: if you could go back, would you?

This book was interesting and well written. I am happy to recommend it!

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