Review of "Carved in Stone" by Elizabeth Camden

What a wonderful beginning to Elizabeth Camden's new Blackstone Legacy series! I truly appreciate the way historical events are woven into this beautiful book. The main characters (Patrick and Gwen) are both fun and layered. Combining everything from coming of age, prejudice, science and medical advances, and a little mystery along with an against-the-odds love story; this is a well written and extremely enjoyable novel.

I have read every book by this author and highly recommend this one in particular.

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

Review of "Lights Out" by Natalie Walters

This is an excellent start to a very promising series. Heroine Brynn has clearly defined motivations for safety and security, and her bravery in the face of trouble is admirable. Hero Jack is a strong and steady character, a great companion for Brynn. Their jobs are interesting and the different points of view the author includes all add beautifully to the mystery.

The S.N.A.P. Agency is an interesting premise and the supporting cast are very well written, which leads me to eagerly look forward to the next installment.

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

Review of "Tacos for Two" by Betsy St. Amant

Overall, I enjoyed this book. Although the storyline has been done before- (main characters have connected online but wind up also meeting in real life and don't know for a very long time, that they are one and the same) -it is well done, and it's fun to watch Rory and Jude in both places. The witty repartee is great, and the cooking competition is lively. The town characters and supporting cast are well written as well.

Where there was a bit of a breakdown for me is that I never fully understood just why Rory's cooking skills (or lack thereof) were such a secret. Why couldn't she just be an awesome business person who wanted to carry on her aunt's legacy? I did find myself wanting to lecture her a tiny bit at times on being honest about what she really wanted, instead of trying to meet everyone else's expectations. However - there is plenty to enjoy here, including the way both main characters grew and developed. The author provides an explanation of why the characters respond the way they do, and the resolution is great.

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

Review of "Meet Me in the Margins" by Melissa Ferguson

I loved this book so much. I really can't say enough about how happy it made me. It was well written, touching, and included numerous laugh out loud moments.... always a big plus. The tension built at a perfect pace and it was enjoyable to watch the characters develop and grow. Savannah is extremely relatable, and Will is a lovely surprise.

I fully recommend this author's other books - they are excellent - but this is my favorite of them all. If you enjoy romantic comedy that is NOT typical and will keep you laughing until its happy ending, this is definitely the book for you! 

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

Review of "Woman in Shadow" by Carrie Stuart Parks

This is yet another excellent suspense novel from Carrie Stuart Parks, combined with the author's consistent mix of quirky humor and interesting backstory. Main character Darby Graham is endearing and smart. The mystery of "who is behind all the trouble" (and there is a lot), as well as the trauma she previously experienced that is coloring her life today are both revealed slowly and not easily "guessable". 

I am glad to recommend this book, and encourage you to pick up the author's other titles as well.

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

Review of "The Contest" by K.E. Ganshert

A beautifully woven story of love, betrayal, and of course magic, this new YA offering from author K.E. Ganshert is literally, well, magical.

Briar Bishop has long known her destiny is to protect her little brother. After witnessing her parent's execution for magic crimes as a small child, life has not ever been easy. It gets no better when her brother is imprisoned for a petty theft and sentenced to die - just like their parents. Briar exhausts every option to free him, with no success. When she receives a strange invitation from The Wish Keeper she takes a chance....and it just might change her life forever.

This is an excellent read for young adults and adults alike. The characters are interesting and well developed, and the way it all ties together is compelling. I am not typically a fan of this genre, but this story gripped me from beginning to it's very satisfying end. Frankly, I thought about it when I wasn't reading, couldn't wait to finish, and was sad when it was over. I highly recommend this book!

This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for my honest review.

Review of “Since You’ve Been Gone” by Tari Faris

This is such a great series (and I am hoping it’s not the end of Heritage stories….) - I think this is one of my favorites so far!

When Leah and Jon were in high school, there were a number of misunderstandings between them - namely that Leah is still so scarred by her dad’s abandonment that she makes a number of assumptions that are simply not true.

Dealing with his own trauma - Jon’s parents were killed in a car accident, which leads to his inheriting his dad’s company along with the burden of his family legacy, and guardianship of his 17 year old sister; he is going through a lot...but none of it changes the fact that he has been in love with Leah for years.

When they go into business together the potential for success (and perhaps more misunderstanding) is high, but when a series of unfortunate events occur, will Leah run again? Or will she allow for the possibility of a forever love?

This series is not only a lot of fun with its quirky characters, beautiful friendships, and small town awesomeness, it’s touching and even thought provoking. It is easy to recommend this entire series (and you knew I was going to say this but….start from the beginning, as it will make your reading experience even richer!)

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

Review of “Beyond the Tides” by Liz Johnson

Since Meg’s mom began dealing with an unknown and debilitating disease, her dad decides to sell the family’s lobster fishing business. Although Meg is a high level teacher - i.e. no easy subs to be found - who truly loves what she does AND is EXTREMELY seasick, she decides she can’t let the business leave the family.

Oliver has been apprenticing with Meg’s dad for years and has been saving to buy the business ever since he took him on as an apprentice. Meg and Oliver have an unfortunate history - and although a great deal of time has passed things are still tenuous between them. When Meg’s Dad says they must work together for the season and he will then decide who takes it on, will sparks fly that burn everything down? Or perhaps, will those sparks make everything right?

This is an excellent beginning to the author’s new Prince Edward Island Shores series. It was especially fun to learn about the setting and different way of life on PEI. I am eager for the next book in the series!

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

Review of “The Chase” by Lisa Harris

 This is the second book in the US Marshals series that picks up where book one left off.

US Marshal Madison James’ memories of who shot her are still elusive, but she is ready to get back to work. When she and her partner Jonas Quinn take on some bank robbery cases they are quickly reminded of just how precarious life can be. Determined to solve the mystery and preserve public safety, the bank robbers continue to lead them on a chase of epic proportions. Are all of these events connected in any way? And will we find any more clues to discovering who shot Madison??

This is definitely a “series” book; meaning you will for sure want to read the first one before beginning this one. Fortunately for you, you won’t have the waiting period I did from book 1 to book 2! J

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

Review of “The Heart of Splendid Lake” by Amy Clipston

When tragedy strikes and Brianna’s dad dies suddenly, she is not only dealing with extreme grief - she soon discovers her dad was keeping the financial state of the business they ran together a secret from her, and it is not good news.

Scott Gibson is a real estate investor who has long enjoyed a love for Splendid Lake. He’s envisioned a new way of looking at the property and came to town specifically to make an offer to Brianna’s dad….unaware that he has just passed away. Although she initially does not trust him, through several different and pivotal events, Brianna begins to learn that Scott is not trying to take advantage of her; he may just have the solution to her family’s dilemma.

This is a sweet story about moving through grief and finding a path you never expected would be yours - and it just might be better than you could have even imagined. I am delighted to recommend this book; I really enjoyed it!

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

Review of The Gold in These Hills by Joanne Bischof

A split-time history and love story!

Juniper (June) Cohen is a loving mother, friend, and wife, who has found herself in a very challenging situation. Her husband has disappeared and she continues to wait for him while living in the now almost abandoned town of Kenworthy. When she discovers he may not be the man she has always believed him to be, she must decide the best way to move forward.

Johnny Sutherland’s (present day) wife has not only abandoned their marriage, she is for sure not willing to reconcile. Determined to parent well and provide a safe and loving environment for their two small children, general contractor (check this) Johnny purchases a 100-year old farmhouse in the former boomtown. When he discovers writings and information from Juniper’s life, he is moved by how they connect to his own.

The author utilizes story, letters, and several strong characters to paint a wonderful message of redemption and forgiveness. The cultural impact and setting are wonderful to read about and I very strongly recommend this book (and author)!

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

Review of Power Play by Rachel Dylan

This is the third book in the author’s Capital Intrigue series.

Attorney Vivian Steele may be best friends with FBI and CIA Agents, but she is a State Department employee who ensures things stay on the up and up - and that is the way she likes it. When a strange and shocking series of events catapult her into a role she never imagined, she quickly finds that some things are worth taking a risk for.

Jacob Cruz is working in Diplomatic Security when he is paired on a joint FBI task force with Vivian. Initially assuming she is out of place and even possibly a suspect, he soon begins to fear for her safety – and perhaps something more.

This series was especially interesting in that the leads are strong females in pretty high level roles. The stories were compelling and worth a read.

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

 

Review of Let It Be Me by Becky Wade

I put off reading this for far too long. My reason? I knew that if I started it that meant it would soon be over, and then I couldn’t look forward to it anymore :/ But I finally made it happen….and it definitely did not disappoint.

Dr. Sebastian Grant is one of The Miracle Five and has found his purpose as a pediatric heart surgeon. Although his motivations to save lives run quite deep, and he is very successful, he is also lonely. When a car accident connects him with a mystery woman he searches for her …only to find out she is the same woman his best friend has been in love with for some time now.

Leah Montgomery is a math genius who has put her career dreams on hold to raise her younger brother. When a DNA test is returned with some shocking results, she is determined to solve the mystery. Leah was such an interesting character! Her brilliance, motivations, and straightforward speech and behaviors were incredibly refreshing.

I especially appreciated how the author portrayed the (teenagery) conflicts between Leah and her brother as well as navigating the resolution for several of the conflicts. Everything rang true, but without being trite or typical.

Although this could possibly be read as a standalone novel you will be far happier if you read book one (“Stay With Me”) first. I strongly recommend this series, and truly loved everything about this book.

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

Review of "Never Miss" by Melissa Koslin

Kadance Tolle's upbringing was untraditional, to say the least. A former sniper with the CIA and born into a family of assassins, when she sees someone in danger (even though she is on the run from said family) she can't help but intervene. Kadance may have some deep and understandable trust issues but at the core she is a caring person who wants to do what is good.

Lyndon Vaile is not just brilliant - he has a photographic memory and holds three doctorates: microbiology, pathology, and epidemiology, all of which he earned before turning 30 (oh, and a master's in cybersecurity btw). When Kadance saves his life and their paths become intertwined, they must work together on a case that has both global and national security ramifications.

I loved the cat (we had a Maine Coon that was basically a dog in cat form - that breed is amazing), and overall I really thought this was a very solid first book from this new author. Although there were some mild mis-steps -and frankly, the things that I noticed seemed like they were an editing issue that could have been solved with a word search for repetitive statements- it was overcome by the interesting backgrounds of both main characters and highly relevant subject matter. I look forward to more offerings from this author.

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

Review of "The Nature of a Lady" by Roseanna M. White

Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair is tired. Tired of being expected to be something she isn't, and of being pressured to marry someone she doesn't love. She is still grieving the loss of her father, and even though she loves her family dearly she just wants to make her own choices without the pressure of their expectations. When the opportunity arises to spend the summer with just her laddies maid (and friend) Mabena on the Isles of Scilly, she jumps at the chance. She doesn't know that Mabena has her own reasons for wanting to go, or that there is possible danger - and maybe even love - waiting for her when she arrives.

Oliver Tremayne's sister - also named Elizabeth - (this is a crucial story point) has been off on an adventure and asked for some space...but since she hasn't checked in recently he is starting to worry. His responsibilities as the village vicar are many, and his beloved grandmother (Maam-wynn) seems more frail than usual. When the mystery intensifies - and people are missing and possibly dead - Libby and Oliver work together to solve it

I loved learning about the "Scillies", and enjoyed the deep family relationships and ties. I always experience some frustration over the rules of the day dictating certain behaviors but that is what it is. :) I also enjoyed learning about the rich history of this area and people. I am happy to recommend this book and look forward to the next in the series (The Secrets of the Isles).

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

Review of "Love and the Silver Lining" by Tammy L. Gray

I will tell you straight up that this is going to be an incredibly positive review. I loved this book. I loved it even more than the first one (this is #2 in the State of Grace series; although you might THINK you can read them as standalone, in my longstanding opinion it is a MUCH BETTER experience - remember, context is key - if you read things in order. So go ahead and read this review because I'm not going to give you any spoilers, then go get "Love and a Little White Lie" and read it first, pretty please.)

Darcy Malone has banked her future on a couple of things: she is going to be a missionary, and love is not reliable...the second conclusion reached following her parent's divorce. When the proverbial rug is yanked out from under her missionary plans at the last possible moment, she becomes paralyzed from one too many major letdowns at once.

Darcy's lifelong BEST FRIEND (yes the caps are intentional, because their BESTFRIENDNESS is a v. important part of the storyline) Cameron Lee had his own life turned upside down in book one, and he is counting on the band he joined to be his future. Cam is Darcy's go-to for basically everything - but when their mutual friend and lead singer in the band Bryson Katsaros is integral in finding Darcy a new place to live, she begins to look at him in a different light.

This book addresses grief - mourning the future you thought you were going to have; disconnecting from your faith and other things that kept you grounded - but still finding your way back; how even the deepestr of relationships can change and grow; and, not everything will be resolved by the end of the book - I appreciated the author's willingness to go there. The book is complete on its own but you will still look forward to the next one. Rich in snappy and compelling dialogue, laugh out loud moments, and dog training (you don't see too many romantic comedies that weave dog training into the story in an effective way, but this one does, and does it well)! I wholeheartedly recommend this book.

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

Review of "Winning the Gentleman" by Kristi Ann Hunter

Aaron Whitworth has long accepted his place in society as the illegitimate -but acknowledged- son of a Marquis. Educated alongside the aristocracy, he's made lifelong friends (whom he sometimes wrongly assumes he shouldn't ask anything of). He's also earned a great deal of respect along the way, but he still carries some pretty serious burdens emotionally that perhaps he shouldn't.

Sophia Fitzroy and her twin brother Jonas's situation has been precarious since their father died. When he has an accident that renders him unable to sit or stand for long periods of time, their dreams of a riding school are put aside to find a means of survival. When Aaron is in need of a jockey, he unwittingly hires Sophia and serious hijinks (and love, of course!) follow.

This is the second book in the author's Hearts on the Heath series, and a solid offering.

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

Review of "From This Moment" by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Jase Edgar and his fiancee had their whole lives ahead of them when she is killed in a tragic car accident. In the process of moving forward in spite of his sadness and disillusionment, Jase takes a new job as a youth pastor in Bradleyville, Kansas.

Told from multiple points of view, the author weaves together a story of redemption and healing.

The take on the Amish from Kenzie's point of view is not typical and very interesting. The relationships are beautiful and supportive, and the struggles the characters are going through are varied: grief, health issues, food addiction, foster care, humility, honesty...

There is a small mystery that is not hard to sort out, but it was still fun to watch it unfold. If you are looking for a story to encourage you to be encouraged and find hope, this is a great book for you.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Water Brook/Random House Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Plot Twist" by Bethany Turner

What a fun, unique, and just plain GREAT take on a romantic comedy.

Writer Olivia works for a greeting card company but is not so secretly working on a screenplay and would love to be in a serious relationship. She is 30, after all. She also is convinced that she will never be the leading lady - only a supporting character. This mindset messes with her in a number of ways...and really, there's too much to attempt a summary so here are my bullet points for your review reading pleasure:

• The relationship with her longtime best friend is basically, the best
• The card quotes are awesome
• The timeline that follows our heroine through the years is well paced and interesting
• There is plenty of sassy repartee and a ton of laugh out loud moments
• I was surprised multiple times - and frankly, that doesn't happen very often in this genre

The most important takeaway: this book was a pleasure to read and I definitely recommend it!

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

Review of "At Lighthouse Point" by Suzanne Woods Fisher

 This is the third book in the author's Three Sisters Island series, and I think it's actually my favorite!

Youngest sister Blaine may have had some growing up to do when she left the island to "find herself in Europe", but she also needed healing from some intense trauma that really came to the forefront during her trip. When she returns to the island two years later with her hard won diploma from Le Cordon Bleu and dear friend Jean-Paul in tow, Blaine finds a number of changes - not only on the island, but in her family and Camp Kicking Moose as well. Some of those changes cause Blaine to reassess her purpose and place in this world, and they also require her to fight to hold on to her newfound peace.

There are some lovely surprises and new visitors to the island, and it's fun to see the "progress" that has been made in the two years since we were last with this family. The author's delightful sense of humor shines through in this entire series, with the quirks of several characters just enough to be fun rather than simply strange :) You will definitely want to visit Three Sisters Island when you are done with this series!

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

Review of "The Letter Keeper" by Charles Martin

 So....when I first read "The Water Keeper" (book 1) and enjoyed it, I didn't know there was going to be a sequel. Amazon now says this one is "Book 2 of 2", but I'm telling you right now that it better not be stopping here. Although there were a few instances that some suspended disbelief is required (honestly, how many times can someone have such serious injuries and still pull through, but whatever), it's still worth it. I definitely recommend them both. But please know that you absolutely MUST read The Water Keeper first. And Mr. Martin, I am assuming there is a third Murphy Shepherd book on the way, so please do not let me down.

David Bishop/Murphy Shepherd is a rescuer of lost souls, and he continues to do so even at great personal cost. The bad guys make it super personal by taking his family, but he will find them and there will be a substantial price to pay along with some surprising secrets revealed. This book also provides more background into Murphy and Bones' history.

I will gladly recommend this book, and remember: read the first one BEFORE you start this one!

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

Review of "All That Really Matters" by Nicole Deese

I'm pretty sure I have read all of Nicole Deese's books....and I know that I have enjoyed them all. But this one...this one is special, and it is by far my favorite!

Molly McCormick is a successful influencer of "Makeup Matters with Molly." She is on the verge of a next-level breakthrough in her career, and is encouraged by her agent/boyfriend to find a human interest cause to partner with....all to demonstrate why she should become the host of a new Netflix show. After a series of (amusing) missteps, Molly eventually becomes a mentor at The Bridge, a program that assists young adults in successfully transitioning to adulthood.

Silas Whittaker, Director of The Bridge, has some deep seated reasons that drive his passion that the program be not only successful, but duplicated. And he's not sure if Molly is a distraction, or just what the program - and he - needs.

The author bounces back and forth between Silas and Molly's POV, and they are both compelling. The combination of witty repartee along with serious life issues are powerful. The journey and solutions to the conflicts are fresh and interesting. I am PASSIONATE about recommending this book. :)

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

Review of "Night Fall" by Nancy Mehl

This is the first book in the author's Quantico Files series; it focuses on PTSD, cults, and even biological and spiritual warfare.

Alex Donovan has finally realized her long-held dream of joining the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit when she is put on a case that throws her right back into a traumatic part of her past she is desperate to forget. However, her connection to the cult and subsequent insight into the inner workings of their suspect's mind are crucial to stopping him before hundreds of thousands - or even millions - of people die.

There are a few twists and turns, and the psychology is interesting. Although I did figure out part of the mystery early on, it didn't spoil anything. I am excited to read the next book in this series.

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

Review of "The Way It Should Be" by Christina Suzann Nelson

Newlyweds Zara and Chad Mahoney have big plans - ones that are set aside when Zara's niece and nephew (her estranged twin sister Eve's kids) are in need of emergency foster care. Desperate to be a mother, but terrified of her genetic risks, Zara agrees to take in the kids and hopes it will ultimately be a path to healing some of her broken places.

Tiff Bradley's drug addicted daughter is long gone and presumed dead. She is committed that if there is anything she can do to help another family avoid the same devastating loss, she will do it - even at great personal risk. When she meets Eve on one of her "ministry" nights out on the streets, Tiff sees something she can't ignore and becomes involved far deeper than seems wise. But is that level of commitment and consistency what Eve really needs to break free for good this time?

This was such a challenging story to read - but very good, and so worth it. The author uses Eve's journal entries to give a peek into her struggles and thought process, and it is both effective and enlightening. The journey they all make as a family, along with the unexpected ending, was satisfying and also left me wanting more. I truly enjoyed this book!

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

Review of "Bookshop by the Sea" by Denise Hunter

In this standalone novel, 25 year old Sophie Lawson has plans to begin the next phase of her life. She has long been the very patient caretaker of her family; however, with her mom recently passed away, her twin brother starting a grownup job, and their younger sister almost married, it's finally her turn to pursue her dream....opening a bookstore in a beautiful seaside town.

Business owner and extreme sports enthusiast Aiden Maddox and Sophie go way back...all the way to high school. Unfortunately, Sophie still hasn't exactly forgiven him (OR forgotten him), since he left her to pursue HIS dreams. He's back in town for her sister's wedding but when a hurricane hits his flight is cancelled. Due to a series of events, he winds up staying a little longer than expected and helps Sophie navigate a series of unexpected challenges...but will his apologies and staying power make a difference this time?

Exploring several themes including first love, forgiveness, and healthy boundaries, this is ultimately a sweet romantic story in a lovely setting. I usually enjoy Denise Hunter's books and this one is included on that list!

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

Review of "Hours to Kill" by Susan Sleeman

Book three in the Homeland Heroes series.

Addison Leigh (estranged wife of Mack Jordan and formerly part of the elite RED Team) is working to bust up a dangerous gun running ring when she is personally threatened - first her family, then her life. When the attack leaves her with a head injury that includes some memory loss, she is shocked to find out she is married...and, she also can't remember what lead she was pursuing when she was attacked. 

US Marshal and elite RED Team member Mack Jordan still loves Addy desperately, but has been compelled to stay away after a particularly disturbing PTSD reaction that puts her in danger. When Mack finds out Addy is injured he rushes to her side, but is shocked when she doesn't know who he is. Eventually Addy's boss and the RED Team work together, both to keep Addy safe and to crack the case.

As this is the third book in the series you will likely find more enjoyment in reading them in order. I found them all enjoyable and easy to recommend.

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

Review of "All That We Carried" by Erin Bartels

Estranged sisters Melanie and Olivia have barely spoken in the 10 years since the car accident that caused their parent's death. As they were on a hike at the time, Olivia can't understand why Melanie chose a weeklong hike as the point of reconnection, but when she is caught in a weak moment, she agrees.

The sisters have gone down very different paths in the last decade; Olivia is type A, very organized, an attorney, incredibly tied to her lists and rules and plans - especially her agenda for this hike. Melanie has gone the more free-spirit route with her life, ascribing to numerous religions and philosophies, Mel is a life coach with a YouTube channel and many followers, her "Mellies". Well intentioned and determined to reconnect with her sister, Melanie also has a secret to confess - and she isn't sure that Olivia will ever forgive her.

I have read all three titles from Erin Bartels (all I can find) and this is by far my favorite. The story develops at an appropriate pace, the character's trauma and reasoning is realistic and compelling, and the unexpected surprises along with way completely make sense without being TOO incredible or far fetched. A touching and thought provoking story, very well written. I happily recommend this book!

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

Review of "The Prince of Spies" by Elizabeth Camden

The third (and sadly, final) book in the Hope & Glory series (extra hard because I think this is my favorite series from the author so far!) 

Luke Delacroix, former spy and twin of Caroline (book 2) has recently returned from the Cuban prison he was in during books 1 and 2. He is still on the hunt to find accountability for the food poisons he is certain the Magruder family utilizes in their canned food recipes. Now living in the Washington DC area, he signs up to be a part of the Department of Agriculture's new scientific study that is testing the impact of certain chemicals in human subjects. Based on the real-life "Poison Squad" in 1902, the experiments (led by Dr. Wiley who was ultimately the first head of the FDA) begin to take a toll, but Luke is determined to find answers to support his crusade.

Photographer Marianne Magruder (father Clyde Magruder, a recently elected Congressman) and Luke have a chance meeting, and those proverbial sparks fly immediately...but are momentarily squelched when they realize each other's last names. Yet, they aren't squelched for long, and their commitment to each other and the truth is inspiring.

With witty banter, interesting dynamics, with a poignant peek into the state of affairs of this time period, it is quite easy for me to recommend this book. Please do start with book one to enjoy the entire series; you'll be glad you did!

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

Review of "The Lady in Residence" by Allison Pittman

Dini Blackstone is a fifth generation illusionist/performer in San Antonio. Orphaned at 16, she leads an unusual life - one with very few close relationships and a focus-bordering-on-obsession with a decades old mystery.

Teacher Quin Carmichael arrives in San Antonio with a mystery of his own - a packet of very old papers that Dini is VERY interested in - because they contain more clues to some of the secrets she has been wanting to figure out for essentially what feels like her entire life.

The Menger Hotel, Hedda Krause, Sallie White, Gil (who I am pretty sure is also Bert, but you let me know what you think), are all amazing characters themselves. The dual-time format that bounces between present day Dini and Quin with Hedda Krause's story is well done and appropriately nuanced.

This book was excellent. Unusual topic, compelling characters who make unexpected choices, lovely mystery, a great deal of heart...I cannot recommend it enough!

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

Review of "Lethal Intent" by Cara Putman

Lawyer Caroline Bragg is in the process of trying new things in her life. Recently unemployed after the death of her boss, she starts a position with cutting-edge medical technology start-up Praecursoria. Little does she know that her life is about to drastically change.

Brandon Lancaster is a former professional football player. Since his retirement he's founded Almost Home, a group foster home for siblings. A long time friend of Caroline, their relationship is starting to turn into something more - if their trust issues can be resolved.

When their worlds begin to intersect in different (and dangerous) ways, will Caroline crack the code of what is truly going on at Praecursoria? Will she and Brandon find their footing, and will he Almost Home be saved?

I must be completely frank and say that I couldn't completely find my footing with this book. I liked it but can't tell you that I loved it. However, I find this author to consistently be a solid and intelligent writer overall, so I very much encourage you to read this book and decide for yourself! :)

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

Review of "Dreams of Savannah" by Roseanna M. White

It is the early 1860's, and our heroine Cordelia Owens is a privileged daughter whose talents and imagination are not especially appreciated by her traditional family. Phineas Dunn loves Cordelia but is bound to his duty as a recently enlisted member of the Confederate navy. When his mission goes south and he is badly injured (by a friend, no less) he is given up for dead.

Cordelia never loses hope - and she is not wrong; however, when Phineas does not return in a reasonable time frame (and is presumed dead) she is pressured to marry someone else. Phineas is a changed man, both inside and out. Will he be able to feel whole again? Will Cordelia bend to the family expectations, even though it goes against the core of what she believes?

With many sub-stories (the war, the evil cousin, abolitionists, the search for a missing person) there is a lot here. This is one of my favorite authors and it is a bummer to say this book wasn't also my favorite of theirs. It was challenging to feel engaged but I wasn't able to pinpoint the exact reason.

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