11.26.2018

Wait for Me by Susan May Warren ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Pete Brooks is shocked when after waiting for Jess Taggert for a year, she returns to Montana engaged to her ex. A series of on the job accidents are making him question his career. But he just can't get Jess out of his head.

Jess Taggert returns to Montana and to Pete, but he doesn't seem to care for her anymore. Jess is the daughter of a man who ran a scam that cheated many of their life savings, and back in New York she's drawn to her old life, and agrees to a fake engagement to please her dying mother. After a fight with Pete she hitches a ride with Esme and Ned, they find themselves crashed on the side of the road, then taken captive by a villain with murderous intent.

Now PEAK must race against the clock to save Jess, Ned and Esme before it's too late.

Esme is Ian's niece, he'd been searching for her for years. Esme is tired of running so she's returned home. In this book we get to also see a lot more of Esme and Ned's relationship, they met in a previous book. All three of them work together for their survival. And Esme listens to Jess and helps her understand a few things and get her priorities straight.

Ned is determined and stronger than he thinks he is, he dreams of becoming a SEAL but sells himself short always comparing himself to his brother. He is courageous with a strong sense of duty.

Pete wants to forget about Jess, but he is still determined to see her safe. He likes the man that he is with her.

Full of fast paced action and the 6th in the Montana Rescue Series, this book brings plenty of drama, romance, and survival adventure.  I loved catching up with previous main characters and getting to know newer ones better, though there is isn't much interaction between Pete and Jess due to them not being able to be together due to the circumstances. A great conclusion to the series that included all of my favorite characters!

of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.25.2018

The Cost of Betrayal by Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey, and Lynette Eason ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Betrayed
Ann Falcon and her husband, Paul, who works for the FBI, work together to solve a case after Ann finds a pocket knife among the things that she buys at an auction. As a former investigator Ann can't shake the feeling that she is onto something, and a great injustice has been done.

Janelle Robert is a free woman after serving 6 years of a  20 year sentence for a murder that she didn't commit. But the real killer is still at large.

The Falcon's make arrangements for Janelle to spend time on and island with a friend of theirs who is a doctor, Greg Tate who helps people who have dealt with traumatic events. I like that Greg is a very open and frank with Janelle, he is open to talking at any time, and has a dog named Mario.

Janelle has a strong faith and her faith helps her get through her difficult ordeal, she learns things about herself too while on the island. I really liked her strength and how the friendship between Greg and Janelle grows.

Deadly Isle
When storms trap Tennyson Kent on the island where she grew up she must rely on the help of her childhood friend Callen Frost. All communication with the outside world is lost and a murderer is at large on the island. Will Callen and Teni be able to catch the killer before it's too late?

Teni is a NRP officer who specializes in underwater investigations, when she finds her cousin's body in the water she insists on processing it herself, staying strong to help find her cousin's killer.

Callen and Teni have known each other for a long time and they were each other's first loves. Callen has a strong faith, and his first priority is keeping Teni safe.

An intense thriller against the backdrop of a ferocious storm. Strong and daring heroes, make this fast paced read almost impossible to put down!


Code of Ethics
Ruthie St. John is a trauma surgeon from a family of law enforcement members. After saving Isaac Martinez's life, she goes to check on him and finds a stranger in his room. She agrees to help him out of the hospital undetected as the other officers won't help him, and he reported his suspicions. Now someone is determined to silence Isaac, and Ruthie is a key witness. Can Ruthie help Isaac clear his name and expose the dirty cops?

Ruthie and Isaac share a strong sense of moral right and wrong along with their faith. I liked how they get to know each other over the course of the book, and Ruthie's willingness to help keep him safe.

Action packed, with an explosive ending that you won't want to miss. This story is also a special bonus for fans of the St. John family in Ms. Pettrey's previous novels!

Fantastic collection of fast paced and suspenseful reads from  the top Christian Suspense writers! Definitely recommend!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.24.2018

A Secret to Die For by Lisa Harris ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Psychologist Grace Callahan has been through a lot. But despite everything she still tries to help others. When one of her patients is murdered, she finds her own life in danger as well, because the murderer believes that her patient told her his secret before his death.

Detective Nate Quinn responds to the break in at Grace's house on his first day back on duty after a bombing where he lost his partner.  He struggles with survivor's guilt, and he hopes that getting back on the job will distract him, but all of the clues lead him to Grace.

A heart-stoppingly suspenseful read with danger at every turn. Grace is clever and quick on her feet, and Nate is dedicated to protecting her. Grace and Nate must find out what her client was working on so that they can stop the killer before he finds her.

Grace is smart and determined, she doesn't let her past keep her from doing whatever she can to help with the investigation. She is honest with herself, and has a compassionate heart. She shares her faith and how it helped her overcome her grief.

This is a fast-paced read with a lot happening over a short span of time and several surprises. Nate has a strong sense of duty, and struggles with feelings of failure, he doesn't want to let Grace down. Pulse pounding suspense, action packed, yet very well rounded characters. Definitely a must read for the romantic suspense reader!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.21.2018

Ellie Claire Journals ~ Perfect for Christmas Gift Giving



Friends, I'm so excited to share my review of three beautiful inspirational art journals by Ellie Claire. Christmas is just around the corner and any one of these gorgeous journals would make a lovely and thoughtful gift for a friend, sister, mother, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin, and the list goes on! 


All three of the journals are beautifully bound in a sturdy embossed cover, they are made to last. The advertisements do not do them justice. The paper is high quality, smooth for easy drawing or writing, but thick enough to not bleed through with most common writing utensils and art supplies. Each journal is designed to teach a unique technique of art, providing pages for practice with guides that help the user become comfortable with the skills, along with traditional lined pages for journaling. Elegant and faith based, these books also focus on honoring and glorifying God with our thoughts and art, encouraging meditation on the Word. 


Faith and Lettering Journal
This particular journal focuses on hand lettering, showcasing four fonts and four embellishment inspirations, along with dotted graph paper to practice your skills. There are beautifully illustrated inspirational quotes that serve as excellent examples of how you could use lettering to add beauty to the things around you. I loved the examples, and how many of them were designed with the increasingly popular Bible journaling in mind. This would make a great gift for someone who likes or in interested in getting started with Bible journaling, likes making cards, crafting, sign making, etc. The sky's the limit!



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Illuminate Your Story Journal
This beautiful journal celebrates the painstakingly illuminated ancient texts, teaching the user how to illuminate every letter of the alphabet in various styles, as well as tutorials on how to draw other accompanying pictures and designs. There is also a cute keepsake pocket in the back. I enjoyed learning about the 6 different styles of illuminated text as well as their history. There are dotted graphs with guides that help you grow your confidence in illuminated lettering. Using colored pencils is encouraged. The lined journaling pages include quotes from the Bible, theologians, philosophers, and famous writers, I enjoyed how the quotes where themed towards slowing down and meditating on the word along with prayer. Again, great for Bible journalers, as well as many others. This was one of my favorites out of the three journals because of how unique it was. 


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The Illustrated Word: An Illuminated Bible Coloring Journal
Perfect for fans of adult coloring and church history, this stunning journal features intricate coloring pages inspired by illuminated Bibles, stained glass windows, elaborate prayer books, tapestries, and classical art. The illustrations are stunning, the intricate designs bring the rich history of illumination art to life. Perfect for fans of historical art. 


Well crafted journals that would make a wonderful gift for a loved one. 
You can purchase one or all of these journals at the following retailers. 

FAITH & LETTERING
Amazon: http://amzn.to/FaithAndLettering-Amazon 
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/FaithAndLettering-BN 

THE ILLUSTRATED WORD
Amazon: http://bit.ly/Illustrated-Amazon
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/Illustrated-BN

ILLUMINATE YOUR STORY
Amazon: http://bit.ly/Illuminate-Amazon
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/Illuminate-BN



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.18.2018

Christmas Stitches by Judith Miller, Nancy Moser, and Stephanie Grace Whitson ~ Review


Lucie's Review:
Three talented young women find love at Christmastime in these three romantic novellas.

A Seamless Love
Hannah works at the local millinery and dressmaker's shop, she receives order for the guests of Mrs. Pullman. She finds that her old flame Daniel, is moving to town in hopes of working with Mrs. Pullman. Hannah grows over the course of the book, confronting things from her past.

Pin's Promise
Penelope "Pin" is a seamstress at a sewing emporium, she works hard while waiting or Jonathan to finish medical school so that they can marry. But now that Jonathan is done with medical school, Pin is ready to get married, but the more she pushes the mores he resists. Jonathan is having a tough time adjusting to being a small town doctor, and wonders if this practice is a good fit for him. I really enjoyed the die characters in this story like Annie, whom Pin takes under her wing and teaches to sew.

Mended Hearts
Rachel comes to live with her aunts after the death of her father. She's not the only visitor, there is a girl and her baby brother who live with her aunts as well since their mother died. Rachel bonds with the children and she enjoys quilting. The children's father Adam works hard on the farm, and has had a hard time connecting with the children since her wife died. But with Rachel's help he starts spending with the kids. This was my favorite of the collection, the children were adorable and I liked how Rachel and Adam come to admire each other and their strengths.

Heartwarming historical romances for the Christmas season.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.16.2018

Lethal Target by Janice Cantore ~ Review

Lucie's Review:
Tess O'Rourke has decided to stay in Rogue's Hollow, but now controversial marijuana sales are up for a vote, and an eighteen year old has been found dead. Tess is determined to get to the bottom of it.

Meanwhile she's having second thoughts about Sheriff Logan, and finds herself drawn to Pastor Oliver Macpherson's stabilizing calm. But she struggles to find faith, still grieving her father who died in the line of duty.

Tess has confidence in the officers that she works with, while their smalltown is dealing with big city crime. Pot farms are popping up all around their small town and they are angling to sell their product inside the city limits. Other drug use also on the rise, and Tess's current case is more complex than it first appears with few clues, distraught parents, and many questions.

On top of everything else a face from the past has come back to harass her. Tess is strong in the face of adversity, and she holds her head high. She won't let politics get in the way of her doing her job. Tess is determined to do her duty no matter what.

I like how Oliver listens to Tess and tries to be her friend. He is still mourning the death of his wife, but he helps Tess unravel something that she's been carrying around with her for a long time.

The second book in a series, it does leave some things unresolved, and it felt a bit slow at times, but picked up as the story progressed. I loved the community of Rogue's Hollow, as well as how this book focused more on Tess with her personal development and growth. I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see how everything comes together.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.11.2018

Christmas Hideout by Susan Sleeman ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Widowed, single mother, Nicole Dyer and her 3 yr old, Emilee, are on the run from her crazy ex-boyfriend who has been stalking her since their break-up. When she finds a knife stuck in the kitchen counter it sends her running for safety, her ex, Grady is a police officer and she knows from experience that going to the law will do her no good.

Deputy Sheriff Matt McKade finds Nicole and Emilie hiding in one of the cabins on the McKade land after their car breaks down. He offers them protection, taking them to stay up at the main house.

I love how Matt's family welcome Nicole and Emilie, and they all come together to keep them safe. Matt's mother and grandmother especially love having a little one in the house, and Emilie enjoys all of he attention. But her favorite is Matt, and she sits in his lap whenever she can, and quickly has him wrapped around her little finger.

Nicole is grateful to not be alone, and appreciates the McKades, but is also respectful and doesn't want to take advantage of their kindness. Nicole struggles with guilt for getting involved with Grady, her ex, and the McKades provide wise godly counsel.

Matt is dedicated to his job, and is great at what he does. He is there for Nicole, and the more he gets to know her the more he likes her, but he has a plan and is determined to stick to it--a plan that doesn't include a relationship.

Action packed, with well developed characters, I loved how close Matt's family is and how they welcome Nicole and Emilie so readily into their hearts and home. A satisfying read filled with faith, family, and love.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.08.2018

Check Me Out by Becca Wilhite ~ Review

My Review:

Greta is a small town assistant librarian, who loves her job. Her best friend Will, introduces her to his handsome cousin, Mac, appears to be a dream come true, the total package with the heart of a poet.

But when the Franklin Library's livelihood is threatened, Greta must come up with a plan to save the library. She also starts to notice that the Mac she sees seems different from the one that she's been texting.

Will Greta be able to save the library and find love?

Greta is passionate about her job as a librarian, and enjoys updating the library's social media  with clever one-liners. When Mac walks into her life like a hero out of a romance novel, she is swept off of her feet. When the future of the library is put in jeopardy she must fight to save it, she comes up with many creative ideas, enlisting the help of her friends and family.

Will is Greta's best friend and rock, he is a great friend, unpopular in high school, and now a high school debate teacher, he has gained confidence and come into his own. I like how he is always there for Greta when she needs him.

This was a fun read, I loved the library setting, and Greta's passion for books. Great small town feel, with many colorful characters, this was a fun quick read. There were some enjoyable twists along the way too. A pleasantly sweet and enjoyable read.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.05.2018

An Amish Wife for Christmas by Patricia Davids ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Bethany Martin and her grandfather have been raising her siblings since her little sister, Jenny, was a baby. But now that their grandfather has died, and her younger brother, Ivan has been getting into trouble. The Bishop tells her that Ivan should go to stay with their uncle after Christmas, but Bethany is determined to do everything that she can to keep her family together.

Michael Shelter has come to Maine looking for a fresh start, he's expecting to work with Elijah, Bethany's grandfather, but when he arrives she gives him the bad news.

Will Bethany be able to keep her family together in time for Christmas?

Michael is still trying to recover from the past that is haunting him. He finds a dog, Sadie Sue, who starts following him around and seems to sense his PTSD attacks. Bethany offers him a job, and the use of their cabin, to help them stay on top of their business. He tries to keep to himself, but the Martins draw him out, inviting him into their lives. He is especially good with Ivan, giving him good advice, helping to guide him into manhood. He is also great with Jenny, and so is Sadie Sue.

I like how Bethany and Michael get to know each other, they both have a great sense of humor. Bethany appreciates Michael's support, and is working to convince the Bishop not to have Ivan sent away. Michael admires Bethany's commitment to her faith and her family.

Frank is a good friend to Michael and to Bethany, he encourages them, and gives great words of wisdom to Michael.

There is a lot going on in this story, and I like that. There is great interaction between Bethany and Michael, as they work together to help Ivan. All the while Michael is trying to deal with his past on his own. Great characters, that you want to cheer for, and a fantastic ending.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

11.04.2018

The Christmas Heirloom by Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter, Sarah Loudin Thomas, Becky Wade ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

4 novellas taking place in different time periods, from regency England to present day America, following a brooch made of silver, with an amethyst stone, and interlocking hearts passed from mother to daughter.

Legacy of Love by Kristi Ann Hunter
Sarah Gooding is the companion to Lady Densbury, quiet and unobtrusive in public, she and Lady Densbury engage in lively discussions and share a true friendship in private. Sarah is an accomplished musician, and is very talented.

Randall Everard is Lady Densbury's favorite grandson, and she encourages him to call often. He is surprised to find out how different Sarah is from what he assumed. He and Sarah work together to give Lady Densbury a fantastic Christmas.


Gift of the Heart by Karen Witemeyer
Ruth Fulbright and her 7 year-old daughter move to Hope Springs, where Ruth has a job as a cook. People come from all around for the natural mineral baths, so housing is expensive and the only cabin for rent belong to the resort owner, Bo Azlin.

Bo is the owner of the resort, he lost the use of his arm in a childhood accident, his business manager usually handles things, but when Ruth comes to rent, she asks to speak directly to Bo. Naomi latches onto Bo, and assumes that the stray cat always hanging around is Bo's, and she helps him open up to Ruth. He admires her determination and fortitude. She loves his strength and compassion, she doesn't care about his arm, and encourages him to reach out to others.

Shot at Love by Sarah Loudin Thomas
West Virginia, 1958. By now the brooch has changed hands many times. Fleeta Brady is a crack shot and talented carpenter, she has dreams of opening her own gun shop.

Hank Chapin comes to town and enters the local shooting contest. He is a gun collector, and has a fancy gun with a prized scope. He is surprised to hear that everyone in town expects Fleeta to win. He is intrigued by her, so he hires her to carve a magnolia onto his gunstock.

Because of You by Becky Wade
Maddie Winslow works with her friend Britt Bradford at the chocolate shop, SweetArt. Maddie has helped with Mission Christmas in the past, but this year she is teamed up with Leo Donnelly. She and Leo have been friends for years, since he was married to her best friend, but now he is a widower.

Leo is a professor at the local college and the father to a three-year-old boy, Charlie, who adores Maddie. Maddie feels guilty over her feelings for Leo, and prays for wisdom. I really liked her faith in action.

Overall this was a great collection, touched with humor and and connected by the brooch. I love how the brooch and various matchmaking helpers along the way help these couples find love in the light of Christmastime. Highly recommend!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

For Us Humans by Steve Rzasa ~ Review

My Review:
Caz Fortel and the rest of humanity's lives changed forever the day the aliens came, now referred to as 6/16. Caz makes a living dealing in stolen art, and getting it back to the rightful owners, so when he gets a call from the FBI with a million dollar payday, he signs on to retrieve the microscopic alien artwork. The catch is that he won't be alone, he will be partnered with a four armed alien Hounder, with a terrific sense of smell, named, Nil, who has more than a passing interest in Christianity.

But their mission is more than it appears, and as the danger increases, Caz begins to question the decisions he's made, and the implications of what their mission means for the Consociation and Humanity.

Imaginative, action-packed, and set in a world fifteen years after the aliens came to earth. Mr. Rzasa does a terrific job of bringing this alternate reality to life, setting this high-tech, action-packed adventure in Wyoming. Caz has been struggling with his faith since the aliens came on 6/16, like many others he finds it hard to trust after everything that they have seen. He hides his doubt with a bravado filled facade, and a penchant for drink and casual flings. But there is one girl who he can't seem to erase from his memories.

Nil is a four-armed alien, with strength that is magnificent in Earth's gravity field, he also has a remarkable sense of smell. His gruff exterior, and high tech gadgets help him come bounding to the rescue when Caz needs some help. But underneath it all he is not as expected, and specifically requested that he be partnered with a Christian human. Nil is used to being resented for how the aliens came fifteen years ago, and started becoming a fixture in the culture, he has heard of Christianity and wants to see it up close on Earth.

For Us Humans is an adventurous romp through Wyoming in a world where humans and aliens walk side by side. I'm not the biggest sci-fi reader, but this book hooked me, though I will admit that at times it was hard to keep up with the action sequences, and there were times when it was a bit slow moving. There was great characters, and I liked that Caz beneath his tough exterior, had real struggles and problems, without easy answers. Nil is fantastic, and in many ways a lot like Caz. An adventurous speculative read, with a great spiritual foundation. If this interests you, I would definitely check it out, I don't think you'll be disappointed!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Reluctant Warrior by Mary Connealy ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Officer Cameron Scott has come to Lake Tahoe to collect his daughter and nephew, but a blizzard leaves him snowed in at the Riley Ranch  with two children who barely know him, as well as the beautiful Gwen Harkness, who has been caring for the children in his absence. The children are afraid of Cameron who is accustomed to barking orders, and prefer Gwen who makes them feel safe.

Gwen has been raising Maddie Sue and Ronnie, and she doesn't want Cameron to take them away with him. When strange things start happening at the ranch, Cam is determined to protect what is left of his family, and the spunky young woman who loves them.

Gwen loves the children, and she wants what is best for them, she makes a deal with Cameron that she will help him get to know them if he will work on not being so loud and bossy. This produces much humor, and touching moments.

I like Penny, Cameron's sister, she is a hardworking woman who prefers outdoors work, rather than housework, and finds wearing trousers to be more practical than skirts. She teaches Deb and Gwen how to shoot, and protect themselves against the mysterious person meaning them harm.

While Cameron is staying with them, Gwen and Cameron realize that there are things that they admire about each other and that they are on the same side, wanting the children to be happy. They share their faith, and Gwen face her fears about the future, by turning to Scriptures.

This book is full of action, with great characters, adorable children, and plenty of humor. I loved seeing the characters from the previous book as they all work together. There is also a developing story as Ronnie's maternal grandparents have hired a Pinkerton to find him. Cameron grows a lot over the course of the book, he is still a strong leader and man of faith, but he learns to be kinder and gentler, taking time to listen and show the children that he cares. Definitely recommend.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."