7.28.2018

First Love Forever Romance Collection by Erica Vetsch, Suzanne Dietze, Cynthia Hickey, Marcia Grover, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Martha Rogers, Lorna Seilstad, Connie Stevens, and Jennifer Uhlarik ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

9 couples find love forever with their first love. Though the times and places change, it goes without saying, you never forget your first love.

First Things First
Georgie is pleased to find that her childhood friend, Ward, is back in town. But when she discovers that he is the lawyer representing the person suing her father. But when her brother is arrested, she doesn't know who else to turn to, as they work together they rediscover their friendship.
This was one of my favorite novellas, I liked that there is a lot going on with a mystery to solve, and many fun characters. I liked Georgie's big family and Ward's strong faith.

A Most Reluctant Bride
When Maggie's father dies, he leaves their horse ranch in financial trouble. Maggie's mother wants to marry her off, but Maggie makes a run for it. Her mother sends Zach after her and after they get caught in a storm, he offers a marriage of convenience. Will marriage have been the answer after all?

Weeping Willow
Willow is a Southern Belle, who grew up on a plantation. Her friendship with Julian has her rethinking many things about her way of life. As Willow's heart is changed, she waits for Julian to return from the war. I really liked how this book takes place over a span of time, realistically showing that Willow's maturity didn't come overnight.

His Anchor
Sadie has been raising her 3 younger sisters since the death of their parents. Sadie loses her job and is forced to take a position at the bar. Her friend Robert returns to town just in time to rescue her, when she is followed home by creeps who won't take no for an answer. He helps Sadie and her family get back on her feet, but does he offer more than friendship or is he just a really nice guy? This book has a lot of characters, and sometimes they are hard to keep track of, but it is an enjoyable read.

After the Ball
Chase would rather work on his grandfather's rach than join the family oil business, he has his eye on Susanna, the foreman's daughter. He knows that his mother doesn't approve of her. Susanna fears that she'll never fit in his world. But their love won't die if Chase's grandmother has her say.  A fun western romance, I liked how Chase fought for a simple life standing up for his beliefs against his family's wishes.

Lighter than Air
Ella is the principle of a girls school, and when her childhood friend,Titus falls from his hot air balloon onto the school property and back into her life she gets to see him in a whole new light. This was one of my favorite stories, it had great characters, faith, and great chemistry.

In Due Season
It's been 15 yrs since Garreth left and moved on with his life, while Leah stayed and became the town spinster. Leah works for her father at his apothecary shop, but he is getting remarried, so she buys her own home. When Garreth comes back, he doesn't intend to stay long, but he does want to make things right with Leah. This was hard to read at times because it was just sad that it's been 15 yrs, and looking at how their lives turned out. This is a story of life and forgiveness.

Heartfelt Echoes
Another stand out in this collection, Travis rushes to Millie's side, when her mother asks him to come, even though they haven't seen each other in years. Travis and Millie became friends when they attended school for the deaf together. Millie has recently undergone a risky procedure, and as a result her face is scarred. I loved how Travis was patient, and slowly wins her trust again. Action packed, with great characters, and a unique storyline, I really liked this story, with its climatic ending!

Prescription for Love
Dr. Phin Mackenzie has a passion for helping people in the poorest places of New Orleans. He has a mobile office, but he needs a nurse. Natalie is a nurse, and previously served in Panama as a missionary, but while she was there she contracted yellow fever, and now they won't send her back. So Natalie signs on with Dr. Mackenzie's project. I really liked Phin's brother, Michael, and how he talks to them both and helps them sort out their past.

A wonderful set of stories about people reconnecting and giving love a second chance. Great stories of family and faith. A very 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."

7.22.2018

The Hope of Azure Springs by Rachel Fordham ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

When a woman is found shot outside of town, newly appointed Sheriff Caleb Reynolds is determined to get to the bottom of it.

Em and her sister, Lucy, came out on the Orphan Train seven years ago, Lucy was placed with a family while Em was not. Em survived in the woods with a man named George who protected her, but never bothered her. But when George is killed, Em wants to take this chance to find out where her sister is, as well as what the killers where after.

Caleb is devoted to his new job, and wants to serve Azure Springs well. He is brave and thoughtful. He wants to help Em, and as he gets to know her he admires her resourcefulness, and competitive spirit. They form a unique friendship, teasing, joking, and finding it easy to talk to one another. I liked their interaction, and the dialog between the two of them.

Em is my favorite character, she is a survivor, and she treats everyone around with compassion and empathy. She doesn't let her past make her bitter, finding joy in the little things. And she has a way of talking to people, that makes them instantly comfortable with her. She accepts what she cannot change, but fights to change what she can.

I really liked this book, and it's one of those books that I didn't quite realize how much I'd liked it until I sat down and thought about writing this review. Entertaining, engaging, with great touches of humor, I loved all of the people that became a part of Em's family in Azure Springs. There were so many great characters, and I loved how everything came together in the end. Fantastic read, can't wait to read more from this author in the future.


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."

Engraved on the Heart by Tara Johnson ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Keziah Montgomery struggles to live up to her Confederate family's weighty expectations to marry well, and keeping her epilepsy a secret. The war disrupts well laid plans, and when her childhood friend, now Dr. Micah Greyson, comes back into her life Keziah must decide if her faith, and the love that she's found, is worth going against everything her family stands for, and the marriage they have arranged for her.

I wasn't sure what to expect of this debut, so I plunged in with an open mind, and I'm sure glad that I gave it a shot! Well written, with complex characters, and a heroine that we can cheer for from beginning to end. I admired Keziah for her willingness to take action, and live out her beliefs in spite of the dangers.

Keziah really comes into her own over the course of the book, her faith is a big part of who she is, and it gives her the strength to do things that she would never have dreamed of on her own. She tries to be a good and respectful daughter despite disagreements with her parents. She is kind, compassionate and brave.

Micah understands Keziah's secret from the start, and he wants to help her find solutions to give her relief. He introduces her to another side of the world that she has lived in her whole life. But Micah has secrets of his own, that catch up with him. He is a man of strong conviction, her admires Keziah's faith, and he is willing to sacrifice for what is right.

Well written and realistic attitudes for the time period. I admired Keziah's faith and fortitude, as well as her courage. This was a touching read, with plenty of action, and surprises along the way, full of faith, and realistic characters. A fantastic debut novel, and I can't wait to read more from her in the future!


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."

7.17.2018

Justice Betrayed by Patricia Bradley ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Boone Callahan is a lieutenant with the Memphis Police Department, and is in charge of the homicide division. He can't help but be a little uncomfortable around the newest member of their team, Rachel Sloan. He and Rachel went out a few times before she transferred to his division, and Boone still has feelings for her, but he won't let it get in the way of his job.

It's Elvis Week in Memphis, and Elvises are everywhere, including at the Police Station asking for Rachel, with a lead connecting a recent murder to her mother's death many years ago. But before he can show them his files of evidence, the impersonator is discovered dead in his home with no files of evidence to be found.

Rachel doesn't like working with Boone at first, and feels like he's micro-managing her. But as they continue to work together, they come to trust each other, and even Rachel's grandmothers love Boone. I like how the Elvis Week adds an unexpected and fun element to the story.

Rachel had a difficult upbringing and has a strained relationship with her father, as well as a history of failed relationships. She is diligent and committed to her job. I like how she comes to appreciate Boone fore his strength, support, and protection.

I also really liked side characters like Erin and Terri. Erin loves Elvis, and even though everything isn't easy for her, she brings out the best in everyone.

An action packed and suspenseful read, with lots of suspects and complications due to lots of Elvises running around Memphis. Great characters and a riveting storyline. Fantastic 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."

7.15.2018

A Widow's Hope by Vannetta Chapman ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Hannah King comes back to live with her parents after her husband was killed in a tragic accident that also left her 4 year-old son, Matthew, in a wheelchair.

Jacob Schrock is a carpenter with a passion for building playhouses for children with special needs. He builds a house for Matthew, who is excited and wants to help, to which Hannah agrees.

I like how Hannah wants her son to do as many things as he can for himself and not feel limited by his chair. She also wants to help her parents keep the farm, which is at risk due to them helping with Matthews bills. She takes initiative and asks for a job helping Jacob with his accounting.

Jacob is great with Matthew, and enjoys Hannah's company. He makes an effort to talk to Hannah everyday, and finds himself looking forward to seeing her. He has his literal scars, and doesn't think that he has a chance for a relationship.

I like the interaction between Hannah and Jacob, I loved Jacob's heart for disabled children and how he helps connect Matthew with other disabled children Amish and English alike. Hannah is a great mother, she struggles with being over protective, but she wants to empower her son. Great dialog, and believable characters. 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."

7.13.2018

The House at Saltwater Point by Colleen Coble ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Ellie Blackmore runs a blog, and flips houses in Lavender Falls, WA, with her partner, Jason. But when her sister disappears from the bloody deck of her boat, it sends Ellie on a search for the truth.

Shauna and Zach are married now, and on their way to meet her long lost brother. Coastguard Grayson Bradshaw is thrown for a loop when he hears Shauna's news, but when he is sent to Lavender Falls to investigate stolen cocaine. Ellie's sister is the main suspect. But he believes that more is at play.

Will Ellie and Grayson be able to unravel the mystery and find the truth?

Grayson is sorry about Ellie's sister's disappearance, but he knows things about Mac that she doesn't, but he can't help admiring her devotion to her sister. They agree to work together and be open minded as they  work through all the evidence to find the truth. But as they get closer, the risk grows. Ellie finds her tires slashed, her house broken into, and more. They discover that there is a whole lot more going on than a missing sister and drugs.

Ellie is smart and capable, she is determined to continue fixing up her house, and struggles to find peace about the things that happened in her childhood.

Grayson is a good man, and he continues to help Ellie search for the truth, he is very protective of her, and admires her strength and beauty.

Plenty of action, great characters, and intentional dialog, as well as touches of humor that give this book great dimension. Fast paced and enjoyable, I really liked how this book wasn't as dark as previous books by Colleen Coble have been.

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."

7.10.2018

A Light on the Hill by Connilyn Cossette ~ Review

My Review:

Moriyah is the only unmarried daughter of a successful vineyard owner, but she hides the scar on her face with a veil, the reminder of when she was kidnapped and taken to a pagan temple before the walls of Jericho fell granting her, Alanah, and Rahab freedom. The brand burned into her skin is like that of the temple prostitutes, and though she was never defiled she lives with the shame of the mark on her face. When her father makes a match for her, she agrees to the marriage to please her father and put his heart at ease. But then tragedy strikes, sending her fleeing for her life to one of the refuge cities with her father's most trusted men at her side, but as they face those who would claim their right of blood she finds herself trusting her life to Darek, the brother of the man whom she has wronged.

A beautiful novel of retribution, forgiveness, and love, set a few years after the fall of Jericho as the Israelites have divided and begun to take possession of the land promised to them. The descriptions are rich adjectives that paint a picture in the mind with vivid evocative imagery, that add depth to the story and set the scene. Riveting storytelling, and compelling characters bring this story of the refuge cities to life. I was intrigued by the use of the refuge cities in this book, as the Bible doesn't contain any histories of anyone who took refuge in such a city, despite their designations and rules being well outlined in the Old Testament. I was completely blown away by how Ms. Cosette brought the refuge cities--which is a part of the Bible that I admittedly don't linger over--to life, I was captivated by Moriyah's plight, as well as her courage.

The characters were well developed, and even characters that were featured only briefly like Eitan, Ora, and Rimona, were crafted with care and had me wondering about their stories. I thought that this book was well done, I had a tough time putting it down, and I am a huge fan of the original concept of the refuge cities.

Moriyah is brave, yet vulnerable, my heart went out to her, yet I admired how instead of becoming bitter over her circumstances and scars, her scars allowed her to see invisible people like Ora and Eitan, befriending outcasts. She grows a lot over the course of the book, and I like how she takes responsibility for her actions, even though she could easily have been indignant and in denial, but bravely faced her trials.

Darek has scouted out the promised land and seen many beautiful things, he believes in justice and mercy, and despite his doubts and misgivings is always respectful to everyone. I liked his willingness to listen, and quick thinking in moments of crisis.

Overall, a thoroughly engrossing read from beginning to end. I loved the originality of writing about the refuge cities, as well as the vivid and lush descriptions. I loved Moriyah, and admired her strengths and vulnerabilities, and how she grew over the course of the book. One of the best Biblical fiction books I have ever read. 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."

7.04.2018

King's War by Jill Williamson ~ Review

My Review:

Picking up in the aftermath of the previous book, the Remanant are settling into Er'Rets, and Trevyn is king of  Armania, and he must set up his government, make alliances, and know his enemies. He struggles to make peace with the nobles and prove himself as a warrior and king, as well as learn to use the new magic that Arman has given them, in preparation for the coming war against Barthel Rogedoth.

I was thrilled to read the conclusion of The Kinsman Chronicles. It had been a year since I read the previous book so it did take some time to orient myself again with the characters and what was at stake. I really liked how this book makes the connection to The Blood of Kings Series more clear as they settle into Er'Rets and learn more of the mysterious blood voicing, and establishing the House of Hadar.

One of my favorite characters in this book was Olli Argos, which really surprised me, but his character arc was so well done, when I met him in King's Folly, when he was a mantic,I had no idea what his future would hold. Olli struggles to feel worthy of Arman's love, he is faithful and self-sacrificing, discerning, and is genuinely grieved by his past. I especially admired his choice to continue to stand with Trevyn against even his own family.

Grayson, though he has the body and responsibilities of a man, is still a boy. I liked how he continued to mature into his destiny, and gaining wisdom, with a pure, child-like faith, he bravely meets every challenge head on.

Trevyn also is faced with many new responsibilities as king, he has many enemies, and many of the nobles doubt his qualifications to sit on the throne. He works to show himself a leader, I admired his ability to take charge, unafraid to change tradition, forging a new way into light. It's amazing how he has grown throughout this series from the adventurous rooftop jumping boy to a king.

The books also follows Kal, Onika, Charlon, and a few more. I liked even though I there was a lot to not like about Charlon, I still cared for her as a character, she is strong and loves fiercely. And I really liked how the whole Shanek storyline came together throughout the book, intriguing, yet heartbreaking and bittersweet.

This is a challenging book to review, because so much happened within 672 pages, and there's so much I want to say. Jill Williamson has outdone herself in taking us back to Er'Rets and the origins of the House of Hadar, with fantastic world-building, character development, and faith. Multiple storylines entwine and diverge with complexity all leading up the the culmination with the battle between Armania and the dark powers from the Lowerworld. Old Testament themes set in a new fantasy world, full of adventure, daring, betrayal, magic, faith, friendship, and love. A fantastic conclusion to a worthy saga.

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."

7.02.2018

Dead Drift by Dani Pettrey ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Luke Gallagher is back after suddenly disappearing 8 years ago, he didn't tell his friends, or even the girl he was dating. He was recruited in college for the Black Ops, and didn't think that his assignment would take him away for so long. But when his assignment bring him home, he has to face Kate and stop a biological terrorist before it's too late.

Kate has never stopped looking for Luke, and she has since started a CCI. The whole crew works together to help Luke stop the terrorist before it's too late.

This final book in the Chesapeake Valor Series, ties everything together with the four friends and their partners fighting against time to shut down a terrorist.

Luke has done a lot of living and has his regrets. He is highly skilled, and is happy to be joining forces with his friends, in hope of finally bringing this chase to an end. Luke is dedicated to his job, and he has sacrificed a lot for his country.

Kate became friends with Luke's friend when he disappeared, and became part of their team. She's understandably upset when Luke returns, but still loves him despite everything.

This book also follows Griffin and Finley who are working to solve his sister's murder, they finally have a new perspective and a lead that might finally lay this case to rest.

Overall, fast paced, explosive conclusion to this fantastic series. I loved how it tied everything together, and we finally get to see Luke come home. I love the interaction and relationship between all of the characters. This is a fast paced read that was difficult to put down. I was thrilled to get the chance to review this book. I highly recommend the whole series!

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."

A Defense of Honor by Kristi Ann Hunter ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

All of Kit's secrets are at stake when she returns to society, which she left years ago when a scandal ruined her chance for a good marriage. She has since moved on and opened a home for disgraced women and their children.

Lord Graham Wharton's friend is looking for his missing sister, and also thinks that his father is being taken advantage of, paying an exorbitant amount for a chess set. Graham believes that Kit may be the key to the mystery, he follows the clues that lead to Haven Manor and Kit.

Graham is an honorable man, who wants to find a passion and a life purpose. He doesn't want to just be a man about society, partying all the time, and paying calls. He is intrigued by Kit, and admires her care for others. He is great with children, and they absolutely adore him.

Kit still blames herself for what happened years ago, but she and her friend Daphne have worked hard to help women who have been taken advantage of, and given hope to many mothers and children. Kit is clever, brave, and passionate about what she does.

The first in a new series, with great characters, intriguing storyline, and adorable children. I admired Kit and her bravery, facing her fears, and growing in her faith. It took sometime to figure out what was going on, but after that, I was riveted. I'm excited to read the rest of the series!

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."

7.01.2018

Caught by Surprise by Jen Turnano ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Miss Temperance Flowerdew becomes a victim of mistaken identity when she is kidnapped and put on a train headed for Chicago.

Mr. Gilbert Cavendish is hired to rescue Miss Flowerdew, but when he finally catches up to her in Chicago, they are seen alone together damaging her reputation. Gilbert proposes, but Temperance is done with being the victim and wants to get to the bottom of the kidnapping scheme once and for all.

Will Gilbert and Temperance be able to untangle the mystery, and get to the bottom of their feelings or each other?

I love Jen Turano's books, and this one was no exception. Fun from the start with Ms. Turano's signature larger than life characters, this was fast paced read that I didn't want to put down.

Temperance was a character in the two previous book sin the series, and she has really started to come out of her shell and into her own. Temperance is clever and creative, and doesn't like the rich lifestyle that she came from. She loves teaching music, and she appreciates the ladies at the school who have become like a family to her.

Gilbert is a man used to strict schedules and protocols, he is very determined, intelligent, and gallant. I like how Gilbert wants to come to Temperance's rescue, he has good friends and isn't afraid to ask for advice. There is a lot of good interaction between him and Temperance as they get reacquainted.

Overall, this is a fun-packed hilarious adventure, with great characters. I liked the mystery, and that Temperance and Gilbert are people of faith who see God working in their lives. The dialog can be a bit wordy sometimes. This book is engaging, entertaining, and I loved revisiting favorite characters from past books! Fantastic read, with a great 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."