The Storm Breaks Forth by Terri Wangard ~ Just Read Tour, Review and Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Storm Breaks Forth by Terri Wangard, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Storm Breaks Forth
Author: Terri Wangard
Release Date: April 6, 2021
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

World War I rages in Europe, and now the United States joins in. 

Peter Bloch heads to France with the Wisconsin National Guard, but his wife Maren is the one under attack. She’s German-born, and anti-German hysteria is running high. Simple suggestions for coping with wartime measures lead Maren into an active role in the community, but her service doesn’t help deflect suspicion from her. Zealous patriots target her with a vengeance. Peter caught the eye of a major who seems intent on using him as a spy. He’s been fortunate to avoid injury so far, but these activities are likely to get him killed. 

Peter and Maren dream of the day they will be reunited, but more and more, that day appears to be a mirage.

Review:

A historically rich novel that captures the triumphs and struggles of a German American couple during the first world war. 

This book follows both Maren and Peter, from the training camps to the battles overseas, as well as the battles at home. I like to think of this story as being told in snapshots, easy to read, rich in detail in a way that brings history to life. This book does an excellent job of showing the advances in warfare, and how WWI was unlike any war before it.  I loved how Maren get's more involved in her community, while facing prejudice. 

This book has strong characters, and a compelling storyline. I think that this book does a great job of capturing the time period along with the sentiments and emotions. Well worth the read, and an excellent historical novel set in a not often talked about time period. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
 

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

ALSO AVAILABLE

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Terri Wangard grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, during the Lombardi Glory Years. Her first Girl Scout badge was the Writer. These days she is writing historical fiction, and won the 2013 Writers on the Storm contest and 2013 First Impressions, as well as being a 2012 Genesis finalist. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in library science, she lives in Wisconsin. Her research included going for a ride in a WWII B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. Classic Boating Magazine, a family business since 1984, keeps her busy as an associate editor.

CONNECT WITH TERRI: Website | Facebook | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive an ebook copy of The Storm Breaks Forth and a $15 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 13, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 20, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Operation Grendel by Daniel Schwabauer ~ Celebrate Lit Tour, Review and Giveaway

About the Book

 

Book:  Operation Grendel

Author: Daniel Schwabauer

Genre: Christian Fiction, Futuristic Action & Adventure

It’s the war story he’s dreamed of. But the battle may cost him his mind.

Military journalist Raymin Dahl thinks he’s finally getting the story of a lifetime. Secret peace talks on a remote tropical moon are about to surrender five colonized worlds—and six hundred million civilians—to a ruthless enemy.

 

But when his commanding officer, Captain Ansell Sterling, is fatally wounded before the negotiations can begin, Dahl can no longer just report on the mission. He’s ordered to complete it. With help from the AI embedded in Sterling’s comms bracelet, Dahl must impersonate his commander—a Marine Corps hero and psychological operations expert.

 

However, Sterling’s AI may be luring him to surrender more than he realizes. And the mission Corporal Dahl thinks he’s running isn’t the only operation underway.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Thrusting the reader right into the thick of things, we find journalist Raymin Dahl on the brink of breaking the biggest story of his career, when his source and commander is killed. Now it is up to Raymin to complete the mission and save millions, or is it?

Told in the first person point-of-view, we experience this imaginative sci-fi, political thriller, through the eyes of Raymin, as he is pushed into the thick of things, reliant on Captain Sterling's old AI to guide him. But the answers are far from clear cut, as questions rise about corrupted software and other missions at play. 

A twisting plot, with a fascinating world of politics in a fight for truth, and a hero with no one to trust. It took a while for me to get orientated at first because of how the book just throws you into the thick of things in the beginning. I liked learning more about the world, characters and the situation while on the go, but sometimes resented the flashbacks for keeping me from the present happenings. Raymin is a likably flawed character, and I admired his passion for the integrity of a story.

Overall, this was a fast paced read, with political intrigue, intense action, with many twists along the way. And I was intrigued by the unique relationship between Raymin and Ivy over the course of the twisting story. Great for fans of sci-fi adventure!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Daniel Schwabauer, M.A., is a lifelong reader of speculative fiction. He studied the genre under science fiction great James Gunn before graduating with honors from Kansas University’s Masters program in Creative Writing in 1995. Winner of the Eric Hoffer and Ben Franklin awards for his middle grade fantasy series, The Legends of Tira-Nor, Daniel enjoys riding his motorcycle on country roads and pondering other worlds. He lives in Kansas City with his wife and dog.

 

More from Daniel

The Operation Grendel Origin Story

 

I’ve always been fascinated by the power of storytelling, especially as a lever for moving culture.  For several years I studied the development of modern propaganda, the rise and fall of yellow journalism, and the relationship of these to psychological warfare. This culminated in 2017 with a brief investigation into quantum computing and the rising popularity of trans-humanism. Sometimes the best story ideas are combinations of things that have rattled around in the back of your mind for years.

 

Operation Grendel is a keyhole glimpse of a future in which every person in the galaxy is bonded to an artificial intelligence. Some AIs are embedded in the brain, and some are snapped onto the wrist as a wearable device. I didn’t realize when I started writing the book that Elon Musk had already launched Neuralink to create this technology in real life. I discovered the corporation after finishing my fourth draft.

 

The use of this technology probably means a lack of autonomy. How can you think for yourself, or even know what you think, if your thoughts are constantly being shaped and influenced by a quantum computer wirelessly connected to your brain?

 

Then again, is that all we really are as humans—biological computers? I don’t think so. But if not, then there will surely be resistance to the trans-humanist movement. Which means, in a work of fiction, clearly opposing sides. One empire supports this integration of man and machine; the other places limits on AI technology.

 

But “warring empires” was not a story I felt capable of telling. I wanted something closer to home, something smaller and more accessible, something more human. I wanted to show what a life spent entirely under the influence of an inner nanny—a substitute Holy Spirit—might look like.

 

Well, who better to tell that story than a man who has, in his own way, been manipulating others through storytelling? In other words, a journalist.

 

This fit my desire to write the story as military science fiction. Since I never had the honor of serving in the armed forces, I needed a way to give my narrator a believable voice. Corporal Raymin Dahl, a military reporter who barely scraped his way through reservist boot camp, fit the bill.

 

Before long the story seemed to take on a life of its own.

 

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 30

Mia Reads, March 30

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 31

Wishful Endings, April 1

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 1

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 2

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 3

Woven by Words, April 3

Through the Fire Blogs, April 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 5

Adventures Of A Travelers Wife, April 5

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 6

Texas Book-aholic, April 7

April Hayman, Author, April 7

Inklings and notions, April 8

Rebecca Tews, April 9

For Him and My Family, April 10

deb’s Book Review, April 11

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 12

Labor Not in Vain, April 12

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Daniel is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon card, a signed copy of the hardcover first edition, and 2 laptop stickers!! (photo attached)

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/109d7/operation-grendel-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Tapestry of Light by Kimberly Duffy ~ Celebrate Lit Tour, Review and Giveaway

About the Book

 

Book:  A Tapestry of Light

Author: Kimberly Duffy

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: March 16, 2021

Calcutta, 1886.

Ottilie Russell is adrift between two cultures, British and Indian, belonging to both and neither. In order to support her little brother, Thaddeus, and her grandmother, she relies upon her skills in beetle-wing embroidery that have been passed down to her through generations of Indian women.

When a stranger appears with the news that Thaddeus is now Baron Sunderson and must travel to England to take his place as a nobleman, Ottilie is shattered by the secrets that come to light. Despite her growing friendship with Everett Scott, friend to Ottilie’s English grandmother and aunt, she refuses to give up her brother. Then tragedy strikes, and she is forced to make a decision that will take Thaddeus far from death and herself far from home.

But betrayal and loss lurk in England, too, and soon Ottilie must fight to ensure Thaddeus doesn’t forget who he is, as well as find a way to stitch a place for herself in this foreign land.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Well written, with lush descriptions that bring to life in vivid detail the two cultures that Ottilie is torn between. After the death of her mother, Ottilie struggles to support her grandmother and brother with her beetle-wing embroidery, but when news comes from across the waters that her brother is heir to a title she makes the difficult decision to move with Thaddeus to England, knowing that her Eurasian blood will make her even more of an outcast there than in India. 

This book does a great job of showing rather than telling with regard to the characters, their interaction, and relationships. And while this book has a more steady pace, I think that each scene did its part to progress the plot. I love learning about the different cultures as well as the history, and the beautiful art of the beetle wing embellishments. 

Ottilie is a woman who has faced much loss, but loves her brother fiercely. I admired her for bravely moving to another country, knowing that it would be especially difficult for herself. I also really liked her faith arc, and how serious seeking doubt was portrayed. I also enjoyed the complex depth of many of the other characters, like Alberta and Everett who are burdened by the conventions of society. 

Overall, this was a well done and enjoyable read, well researched, with layered characters and a steady pace. I also think that this book did an excellent job of feeling authentic to the time period in the manners, culture, and characters, perfect for fans of classic Masterpiece Theatre. Well worth the read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Kimberly Duffy is a Long Island native currently living in Southwest Ohio, via six months in India. When she’s not homeschooling her four kids, she writes historical fiction that takes her readers back in time and across oceans. She loves trips that require a passport, recipe books, and practicing kissing scenes with her husband of twenty years. He doesn’t mind.

 

More from Kimberly

When I set out to write a new novel, I plan the entire thing from start to finish. I write down each scene on an index card and know exactly what’s going to happen when I sit down for the day’s work. I’m meticulous that way.

But I never plan my characters’ spiritual arcs. Because I want their faith journey to be organic to the story. I want it to feel authentic. It’s such an important part of each of my books and I recognize that some things just refuse plotting and need to develop in a more natural way.

My debut novel, A Mosaic of Wings, features a heroine steeped in science. Nora loves the natural world and so her faith was encouraged by studying the wings of a butterfly or examining an interesting plant. She’s not particularly sentimental or emotive so the faith element of that story had to be presented in a way that made sense for her. Nora’s faith arc is subtle.

Not so for A Tapestry of Light. I had no intention of writing a book that delved into my own struggle with doubt. But that’s what Ottilie required. And it wrung me dry.

Then built me back up.

My faith story is a twisted kind of one. Raised a Christian, I went into ministry, firmly attached myself to the faith of my childhood, and thought it would never waver.

I was wrong.

Oh, how it wavered. For whatever reason, when I hit about 30, it seemed everything I had always believed no longer made sense. It was devastating. Terrifying. And it broke me.

But brokenness is its own sort of beauty and when you recognize there is no way for you to pick up the pieces yourself, God can come in and fill those cracks and shattered places.

Those five years of doubt and questioning and facing the reality that even though I’d always loved Christ, I didn’t really know Him (and didn’t really know why I believed in Him), were some of the most painful I’ve experienced. But I believe with every bit of my being that God is in the business of redemption. Of restoration. Of filling up so that we can pour out.

And he took my own very personal struggle and helped me turn it into a story that, I hope and pray, might encourage others. I gave Ottilie my questions. I gave her my doubt. I gave her my fear and desperation and, in the end, I gave her my hope.

There’s a little piece of me in each of my books, but this one contains my heart.

Blog Stops

Life of Literature, March 27

Through the Fire Blogs, March 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 27

Texas Book-aholic, March 28

Breny and Books, March 28

By The Book, March 29

Genesis 5020, March 29

Inklings and notions, March 29

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 30

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, March 30

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 31

Mia Reads, March 31

Reflections from my bookshelves, March 31

Connie’s History Classroom, April 1

Remembrancy, April 1

For Him and My Family, April 2

Rachael’s Inkwell, April 2

Vicky Sluiter, April 2

deb’s Book Review, April 3

Batya’s Bits, April 3

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 4

Godly Book Reviews, April 4

Pause for Tales, April 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 5

Simple Harvest Reads, April 5 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 6

A Baker’s Perspective, April 6

Labor Not in Vain, April 6

She Lives To Read, April 7

Betti Mace, April 7

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 8

To Everything There Is A Season, April 8

Mary Hake, April 8

Wishful Endings, April 9

Bigreadersite, April 9

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kimberly is giving away the grand prize $25 Amazon gift card along with a signed copy of either A Mosaic of Wings or A Tapestry of Light!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/109d5/a-tapestry-of-light-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Amish Teacher's Wish by Tracey J. Lyons ~ Just Reads Tour and Review

Review:

Sadie Fischer's father sees her as young and immature, he is determined to marry her off to an older widower, but Sadie is content as the district teacher. She would rather find love on her own terms.

When a storm blows through, damaging the schoolhouse, Levi Byler agrees to help with the repairs. Will working on the schoolhouse with Sadie help him mend his heart?

A sweet romance of second chances and moving beyond the past. Sadie loves her job, and is passionate about teaching and working with the children. I think she did a great job with organization, but was so frustrated with her father for pushing marriage at her. 

Levi is a nice guy with a gruff exterior, he has lost in love before and has let that experience cloud his hope for the future. I did like him, but it took a while to warm to him, I liked that he didn't try to take over from Sadie but let her set out what needed to be done. He is a kind man, a good listener, but struggles to let himself love again. 

Overall, an enjoyable Amish read about finding love, and letting go of the past. My heart went out to Sadie's sister Sarah who is ignored for much of the story, but I liked how things turned out. An entertaining read with a sweet story of finding love when you aren't looking. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Purchase the book here: https://amzn.to/3dmbdH3

Braced for Love by Mary Connealy ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

A fantastic introduction to a brand new cast of characters in this starter to the newest series by one of my favorite authors, Mary Connealy!

A complex family history bring Kevin and his younger half siblings to Wyoming, where he hopes to claim his part of the inheritance of a ranch that his father left to him and his half brothers. But trouble seems to find him wherever he goes, which leaves him questioning the intentions of his newfound brother. 

A fast paced read with a full cast of excellent characters, that leaves room for more development in future books as well as laying down solid relationships through dialogue and interaction. Action packed, with a lot going on, drama, romance, and humor. There was so much to love about this book, and I'm so excited to read about Falcon and Wyatt in the upcoming books in the series. 

Overall, a wonderful read, and it's shaping up to be a new favorite series! I liked the growing relationships between the brothers, as well as the budding romances, and friendships. I can't wait to revisit the Hunt brothers in the future. You won't want to miss this series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Incredible Winston Browne by Sean Dietrich ~ Review

My Review:

Tender and at times unexpected, The Incredible Winston Browne is a quirky character driven novel set in the Southern small town of Moab, Florida. 

I loved how this book lets the characters introduce themselves, as well as the tight knit community. Winston Browne is Moab's sheriff, he is a kind of extraordinary everyman, an older brother of sorts to the community, he is clever, compassionate, and lives his values, leaving an impact on everyone he came in contact with. Over the course of the story we see him contemplate his past and present, but we also see his big heart for his town. 

Moab is a rural Southern town in the 1950's, filled with all sorts of people, and I enjoyed getting to know many of them over the course of the story. Eleanor is probably one of my favorites for her friendship with Winston, as well as how she is willing to take in little Jessie, as well as taking control of her life. An entertaining read filled with humor and quirk, I loved the unconventional sayings, and the wonderful homey feel of the story. There were also times that the story felt more predictable, as well as others that took me by surprise, in the wending storyline.

Overall, an enjoyable read about a town and a man who is indeed incredible. With rich characterizations, relatable characters, humor, mystery, and heartwarming satisfaction. Worth the read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Orchard House by Heidi Chiavaroli ~ Review

Review:

A beautiful story of forgiveness, heartache, faith, and sisters. 

A dual timeline story that follows Taylor Bennett a best-selling author in the present day, returning home after her adoptive mother's cancer diagnosis, to her complicated relationship with her sister and the aftermath of their rift 18 years ago. Together they attempt to heal what was broken, and exploring the rich history of Concord's Orchard House the home of Little Women author Lousia May Alcott and for a short time her friend, poet Johanna Bancroft.

A compelling and emotionally evocative read, with raw realistic characters that tug at your heart. Though a split time novel it is weighted more in favor of the present day relationship between sisters Taylor and Victoria, as they research the life of Johanna, while unraveling the threads of their own relationship. 

I'm new to this author, and I wasn't sure about how I would feel about it as I am always a little weary of time split novels, but it pulled me in with its winsome characters and captivating writing style, that had me loathe to put it down. The author expertly weaves the two stories together, and I found myself equally drawn to both stories, and appreciated the ease with which they flowed from one to the other. I loved seeing Louisa through the eyes of a friend, and it helped me to understand how counter cultural she was for her time. 

Overall, a skillfully written novel, well researched with characters that leap from the page, well realized in their flawed humanity. The author deftly deals with many difficult topics, infusing them with a call towards faith and forgiveness. I was riveted to the page and didn't want to put it down. I highly recommend this gorgeous and emotionally compelling read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Wish for Home by Jo Ann Brown ~ Just Read Tour, Review, and Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for A Wish for Home by Jo Ann Brown, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: A Wish for Home
Series: Secrets of Bliss Valley #1
Author: Jo Ann Brown 
Publisher: Love Inspired Trade
Release Date: March 30, 2021
Genre: Christian contemporary romance/Amish

Caught between who she is…and who she was. 

Lauren Nolt hasn’t forgiven the Amish community of Lancaster County for shunning her parents. But returning as a successful Englischer working for large developers is just what she needs to get a promotion and give her parents the life they deserve. Coming face-to-face with her childhood bully, Amish widower Adam Hershberger, is the last thing she wants. Yet when her world’s shaken by a shocking discovery, Adam’s the only one she can confide in… 

Adam’s never forgiven himself for the part he played in Lauren’s past, nor what drove him to do it. But as developers threaten his great-grossdawdi’s farm, she’s the only one who can help. And with his little girl determined to bring him and Lauren together at every turn, keeping his distance is impossible. Now they must learn to trust each other—even as their secret feelings grow stronger. But is love enough to bridge the gap between their very different worlds?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | Walmart | BookBub

The trade paperback version of A Wish for Home is available exclusively at your local Walmart or Walmart.com

Review:

A story of forgiveness and second chances. 

Lauren returns to her Amish hometown as a Englisher, and of all the people from her past she could run into it's  childhood nemesis Adam Hershberger, now a widower with a young daughter.

This book does a great job in bringing the tension between Lauren and Adam out realistically, and I admired them both for making a real effort to move past it. Adam owns up to his mistakes, and is honest about his past, yet he has also come a long way and is a very different person now. His daughter is really cute, and I liked the friendship between her and Lauren. 

There are some really fun characters in this book, I especially liked Lauren's Mennonite Aunt, who is very sharp and made her own brave choices in her life. This book has a lot going on, though it was a little slower to start. I liked that it had more going on than a romance, with a strong focus on forgiving and new beginnings, along with a little mystery, and interesting characters. Great for fans of Amish fiction!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Publishers Weekly bestselling author Jo Ann Brown has created characters and stories for as long as she can remember. After college, serving as a US Army quartermaster officer, getting married and increasing her blessings with three children, she sold her first book in 1987. Since then, she has sold over one hundred titles.  RT Book Reviews called her “a truly talented author.” She loves teaching and established the romance writing course at Brown University. She divides her time between Florida and Massachusetts with her husband of over forty years. Find out more about Jo Ann and her books at www.joannbrownbooks.com.

CONNECT WITH JO ANN: Website 

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Wish for Home!

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight March 30, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 6, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Unknown Threat by Lynn H. Blackburn ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

How do you fight back against an enemy you don't know?

Luke Powell, Secret Service Special Agent narrowly escapes an attempt on his life, a seemingly random attack that is similar to the recent events that took the lives of three of his friends. 

FBI Agent Faith Malone is s sharp agent with a rising star, assigned to the case investigating the murder of Luke's friends. Together they must untangle the web of murder and intrigue before anyone else loses their life. 

A high stakes suspense that builds over the course of the story, I liked how it balances the suspense with strong character development, as well as what is going on with some of the other agents that we will likely read about a couple of them in upcoming books.  A riveting read, with a lot going on, and effective storytelling. Luke has really been through a lot in the last few months and weeks, I loved that he had a great group of friends around him, he is a natural defender, with strong faith, and is willing to fight to bring the killer to justice. 

Faith is focused, independent, and a more private person. I liked how working with Luke drew her out, as well as getting to know her sister Hope. 

Overall, a well crafted action-packed read with engaging characters and a twisting storyline that had me hooked. I can't wait to see what is next for this series. Perfect for fans of Christian suspense!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Framed in Death Valley by Dana Mentink ~ Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

 

About the Book

 

Book:  Framed in Death Valley

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Suspense

Release date: March 1, 2021

Framed for a murder he didn’t commit, firefighter Beckett Duke gave up on everything—including his marriage to spirited Laney Holland. That is, until Laney’s life is threatened. Knowing the real killer is still at large, Beckett now has one purpose: protecting the woman he loves…and their unborn child. But sometimes an innocent man’s second chance comes with a deadly price.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

A high-stakes, against-all-odds, suspense that starts with a bang as newly married Laney finds herself pregnant, her husband falsely accused of murder and filing for divorce. 

A fast-paced read with compelling characters, and plenty of action, with a plot that kept me guessing. Both characters are compelling protagonists, and I loved how protective Beckett is of Laney, willing to do anything to make sure she is safe. This book has a great balance of suspense, mystery, and relationship building--or rather relationship rebuilding. I liked the unique twist that they were already married. 

Beckett is a solid guy, with the deck stacked against him. It was easy to see why he felt like he was all out of options, but wanted to do the best that he thought he could for Laney. I liked that Laney believed in Beckett, and was willing to fight alongside him as they fought for answers and their lives.

Overall, a highly entertaining read with great elements of faith, suspense, and relationship development, that is difficult to put down. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a two time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a Holt Medallion winner. She is the Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of over forty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Poisoned Pen Press. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with Papa Bear, teen bear cubs affectionately nicknamed Yogi and Boo Boo, Junie, the  nutty terrier, and a chubby box turtle.

 

More from Dana

What’s up in Death Valley?

 

As the desert vistas opened up in front of Papa Bear and me, I felt an amazing sense of peace. Mind you, we were visiting Death Valley in the fall. No braving the 130 plus summer temperatures for this couple! I simply cannot describe to you the wonder I felt, as a  suburbanite from a bustling, noisy Northern California city. There is never a moment at home when I see only open horizon, when I hear nothing but quiet breezes. I was, quite simply, stunned.

 

I had done some research about places to visit as potential series settings, and Death Valley was at the top of the list. The websites did not disappoint. Artist’s Palette, the gorgeous peak painted in a rainbow of rock colors? Check! Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, glistening with salt and not so lifeless as one might think…check! How about my favorite moment…jouncing along the precarious trail through Titus Canyon? Check! Would all of these incomparable locations be suitable for a six book suspense series? Roger that!

 

It’s ironic that I felt so welcomed by such an inhospitable locale. Visiting is one thing, but it takes a certain rugged breed of individuals to live in such a hostile climate. What fodder for fiction! I simply could not wait to get home and start creating the Duke family. And you know what? When this pandemic is over, Death Valley is the first place I want to return…in the fall, of course! Do you have a place near and dear to your heart? What’s first on your travel list after the world opens up again?

Blog Stops

Hebrews 12 Endurance, March 16

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 16

Among the Reads, March 16

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, March 17

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 17 (Author Interview)

For the Love of Literature, March 18

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 18

Genesis 5020, March 18

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, March 19

Betti Mace, March 19

Lighthouse Academy, March 20

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 20

Bizwings Blog, March 20

Texas Book-aholic, March 21

Reviewingbooksplusmore, March 21

Inklings and notions, March 22

Remembrancy, March 22

Simple Harvest Reads, March 22 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

For Him and My Family, March 23

Blogging With Carol, March 23

Older & Smarter?, March 24

Fiction Book Lover, March 24 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

KarenSueHadley, March 24

She Lives To Read, March 25

deb's Book Review, March 25

Through the Fire Blogs, March 26

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 26

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 26

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 27

Labor Not in Vain, March 27

Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting, March 28

Pause for Tales, March 28

Blossoms and Blessings, March 28

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 29

Daysong Reflections, March 29

Hallie Reads, March 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away  the grand prize of a $30 Amazon gift card, a set of six mini cactus candles, and a signed copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/1093d/framed-in-death-valley-celebration-tour-giveaway