A Hundred Crickets Singing by Cathy Gohlke // Review

Review: 

Return to No Creek, North Carolina, with Celia Percy as she comes of age in the segregated rural community, and unearths secrets held for generations that could pave a new way for the future.

 Set in the same world as Night Bird Calling, this book can be read as a companion or as a standalone. The book follows Celia and Joe in the present day, while also telling the story of Minnie Belvidere a courageous young woman during the Civil War who fought for her family and the freedom of others. 

A powerful read, with hard hitting themes, heartwarming, heartbreaking, gritty, and full of faith this book does a good job of showing the moral dilemmas in light of the human condition in the 1860s and 1940s. I loved how this book shows familiar faces like Celia and Marshall, Ruby, Miss Lill and her husband. I especially enjoyed learning more about the Belvideres and seeing their history all come together in the past and present through the strong women of faith who took up the causes of others. 

Celia is a spirited young woman, passionate, with a big heart for others. She is young but growing into a wonderful woman inside and out, I liked her honesty and how she sticks up for her friends. I also really liked getting to know Joe, seeing his friendship with Marshall and how Marshall helps him to look deeper into things he had been avoiding. I admired Minnie so much, her strong faith even in the hopeless times. 

Overall, this was a poignant read, tackling tough subjects with faith, and unforgettable characters. Highly recommend!

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

When the Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer // Review

Review:

Each night when she goes to bed she awakens in another life.

A captivating read that pulled me into Libby's plight set in diverging timelines, one in 1774 and the other in 1914. I loved the attention to detail, well realized concept, and excellently layered characters. The author does a good job showing the same woman in two very different eras and upbringings, contrasting the stories, sacrifices and heartbreaks.

I loved Libby's 1774 mother, and how she provides wisdom, insight, and prayer for Libby throughout her last year. In fact, one of my favorite things about this book was the strong message of faith in God's plans even when we can't see them, and I admired Libby for her courage and faith through the trials she endured. 

 A truly engrossing read, thought provoking and emotional. One of my favorite reads this year so far and a beautifully woven tale. I can't wait to see what is next for this series!

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

In Honor's Defense by Karen Witemeyer // Review

Review: A riveting western adventure of justice, heart, faith and family. 

Luke "Preach" Davenport feels slightly adrift seeing all of his friends settling down, but not ready to do the same himself. He takes a solo mission investigating a cattle rustling, befriending a young woman and her teenaged nephew. 

The long awaited next installment in the Hanger's Horsemen Series, had high expectations set for it and it absolutely delivered. I loved seeing familiar faces, as well as getting to know Damaris and Nate. 

Damaris is used to being overlooked and forgotten, but when her brother passes and leaves his son in her care she is determined to raise him as his father would have wanted. I admired her faith, and her courage to step out of her comfort zone to find answers. 

A satisfying read from beginning to end, with heroes that you can cheer for all the way through. A nearly impossible book to put down, with excellent relationship building. I liked how faith was a huge part of Preach and Damaris's lives from the onset, and how they both grew in their faith together. Well worth the wait, you won't want to miss it!

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

Facing the Enemy by Paige Edwards // Just Read Tour, Review, and Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Facing the Enemy by Paige Edwards, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Facing the Enemy
Series: Roxbury Heirs #1
Author: Paige Edwards
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Release Date: April 4, 2022
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Christian

Lady Elise Henderson lives two separate lives. At home in Scotland, she’s the titled daughter of the Marquess of Roxbury, an heiress in her own right. In London, however, she’s Elise Taylor, a top MI6 operative for the “home office.” But when a devastating accident threatens to end her career, Elise is left with far too much time for self-reflection and the regret of a decision made long ago that features one man: fellow MI6 agent Harry Benson. 

Harry Benson, the son of servants, has loved Elise for the better part of a decade. But life took them on separate journeys until their worlds converged once more. An immediate assignment to the Scottish Borders leaves Harry little time to make provisions for his small, rambunctious son, Sammy. Harry knows only one person he can rely on for the boy’s care—Elise. When Elise brings Sammy to her ancestral estate, she never imagines that a nemesis from her past looms in the shadows, hungry for revenge. Stalked at every turn, Elise and Harry discover that fighting their feelings for one another is futile, but can they survive long enough to get another shot at true love?

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Review:

Two MI6 agents from vastly different upbringings, get a second chance at love as they fight the shadows from the past for survival. 

Harry and Elise's paths diverged after University, but she is the only one that he trusts to take care of his son. She is recovering from an accident that has put her on medical leave, so she accepts. 

Slower to start, this book switches between multiple viewpoints, and takes a while for the pieces to start to click together. I personally didn't like following the creepy bad guy. Sammy is an adorable with a childlike faith, and a knack for mischief. He quickly charms Elise's staff, while finding plenty of ways to keep them on their toes. Sammy's arrival stirs thoughts that Elise has never pondered before, and makes her wonder about what could have been. 

I liked Elise's growth over the course of the story. Harry is a good dad to Sammy, and he works hard to find balance between work and fatherhood. The story builds to an explosive conclusion. I loved the Scottish setting with castles, and tastes of the culture. A book for lovers of romantic suspense. 

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

ALSO AVAILABLE

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Paige Edwards is an award-winning author and a Reader’s Favorite finalist of contemporary romances with a side-order of suspense. She holds a degree in interior design and has worked professionally in that field. Due to her deep British roots, Paige’s books are often set in the UK, and she hops the pond whenever she gets the chance. She is styled the Lady Paige Edwards when in Scotland, but her favorite title is Grandma. When she needs a break from writing, she serves as president of her area’s Interfaith Community Council, is fond of digging in the dirt (what some might call gardening), biking battlefields, and kayaking on the lake. Paige is a member of ACFW, ANWA, and Storymakers Guild.

CONNECT WITH PAIGE: Website | Facebook | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(5) winners will receive a signed copy of Facing the Enemy!

 

Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 10, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 17, 2022. 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.

The Do-Over by Bethany Turner // Review

My Review: A charming romantic comedy about life's detours and redirections. 

McKenna Keaton's life is upended when she finds herself suspended from her job, under suspicion of embezzling funds. She finds herself returning to her hometown just in time for her sister's wedding and re-evaluating her life, as well as reconnecting with a high school acquaintance. 

A delightful clean romantic comedy, with an engaging plot that pulled me in quickly. McKenna is a focused lawyer, she has spent her whole life working to make her dreams a reality. I loved getting to know McKenna's family and how they welcome her back into their lives without hesitation, and I liked how her sisters support her through the ups and downs, cheering for her no matter what. Her brother-in-laws are pretty awesome too!

Henry is charming, nerdy, brilliant, and a little socially awkward which only adds to his appeal. I loved how is all in from the beginning and makes it clear that he is there for her, and it was understandable that considering their timeline that at times he was unsure where he stood. 

Overall, a fun read with well developed characters, I loved the relationship that McKenna has with her sisters, and the apt pop culture references. An enjoyable romantic comedy that would make a phenomenal movie!

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

The Element of Love by Mary Connealy // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A stolen inheritance, 3 sisters, and a preacher with a past. 

Laura and her sisters were raised to take over their father's lumber empire, and each of them is brilliant with mathematics with a solid understanding of science. When their step-father arranges marriage for them with his creepy friends, they decide to make a run for it, joining a missions group headed for California. 

This brand new series from Mary Connealy kicks off with a bang, introducing an exciting new series while laying the foundation for the upcoming books. I loved how the sisters were so close knit and how we get to know each of them over the course of the story.  This book introduces a lot of wonderful characters that I hope to see again in upcoming books. 

Overall, a fantastic start to a new series that you will definitely benefit from reading in order. A fast paced adventure with great characters, great plot, and strong themes of faith. 

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

A Rose for the Resistance by Angela K. Couch // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review and Giveaway

 

About the Book

 

Book: A Rose for the Resistance

Author: Angela K. Couch

Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance/Christian

Release date: April, 2022

A French Woman and German Soldier Create a Truce

Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.

With her father in a German POW camp and her home in Ste Mere Eglise, France, under Nazi occupation, Rosalie Barrieau will do anything to keep her younger brother safe. . .even from his desire to join the French resistance. Until she falls into the debt of a German solder—one who delivers a wounded British pilot to her door. Though not sure what to make of her German ally, Rosalie is thrust deep into the heart of the local underground. As tensions build toward the allied invasion of Normandy, she must decide how much she is willing to risk for freedom.

Click here to get your copy!

 Review: 

A story of resilience in France during the German occupation. 

Rosalie Barrieau is desperately trying to keep what is left of her family safe and together. She doesn't know what to think about a German soldier who seems to offer a tenuous friendship, but also poses a huge risk to her family.

The start is slower, though I believe much of this has to do with the somber subject matter. I think that the author does a good job of showing the harsh realities of life for the French during the occupation, and the bravery of every day citizens to fight for their freedom. I admired Rosalie and her brother's courage, I liked how Rosalie took a closer look at what she believes, and was active in learning new things. 

Overall, this was a well written, through at times difficult read because of the very real and horrific time in history. I think that it does a great job of showing the tensions of the occupation as well as the brave sacrifices made by many, and the different perspectives of the war. 

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

About the Author

To keep from freezing in the great white north, Angela K Couch cuddles under quilts with her laptop. Winning short story contests, being a semi-finalist in ACFW’s Genesis Contest, and a finalist in the 2016 International Digital Awards also helped warm her up. As a passionate believer in Christ, her faith permeates the stories she tells. Her martial arts training, experience with horses, and appreciation for good romance sneak in as well. When not writing, she stays fit (and toasty warm) by chasing after four munchkins.

 

More from Angela

The story of A Rose for the Resistance has been in the making for a while. Rosalie and Franz came to life for me in the first novel I started writing as a teenager… (not even going to mention how long ago that was). Though much of that early work will never see the light of day, I am glad I can finally share them with you.

 

Every November 11th since I was a child, I would sit with my dad and watch WWII documentaries and movies like A Bridge too Far, or The Longest Day which featured Sainte-Mère-Église during the D-day landings. So many of those stories beg to be remembered and I tried to include as much as I could in this novel, even in passing. Stories such as John Steele of the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment who dropped into the warzone of Sainte-Mère-Église that night and his chute caught on the spire of the church. He hung limply for hours, pretending to be dead, before the Germans took him prisoner. John later escaped and rejoined his division. Or, Henry Langrehr who landed five miles from his drop zone, crashing through a greenhouse on the way down. He was unharmed from the fall, but was later wounded and captured. He lived into his nineties to tell the tale.

 

Many of the events and deeds of The Resistance in the novel are also pulled from history. The French citizen’s willingness to risk their lives to transport weapons and information, and to staunchly resist the brutal German occupation. It is estimated that approximately 90,000 men women – and children – were killed, tortured, or deported by the Germans for their efforts.

Though many of the characters in this story are fictional, there are so many men and women who truly did live through the horrors of the War in Europe, and more importantly risked or sacrificed their all for the freedom and lives of others.

I pray we never forget.

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, April 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 29

Books, Books, and More Books, April 29

The Write Escape, April 30

Remembrancy, April 30

Southern Gal Loves to Read, May 1

Rachael’s Inkwell, May 1

Texas Book-aholic, May 1

Genesis 5020, May 2

Where Crisis & Christ Collide, May 2

Inklings and notions, May 2

She Lives To Read, May 3

lakesidelivingsite, May 3

Betti Mace, May 4

For Him and My Family, May 4

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 4

Sodbuster Living, May 5

deb’s Book Review, May 5

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, May 5

Locks, Hooks and Books, May 6

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 6

Vicarious Living, May 6

Older & Smarter?, May 7

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, May 7

Sylvan Musings, May 7

Connie’s History Classroom, May 8

Blossoms and Blessings, May 8

Mary Hake, May 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, May 9

Splashes of Joy, May 9

Through the Fire Blogs, May 9

Bizwings Blog, May 10

Pause for Tales, May 10

Labor Not in Vain, May 10

Bigreadersite, May 11

Where Faith and Books Meet, May 11

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, May 11

CarpeDiem, May 12

Lights in a Dark World, May 12

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Angela is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and 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/1d3bb/a-rose-for-the-resistance-celebration-tour-giveaway

To Tame a Cowboy by Jody Hedlund // Review

My Review: A hurting veteran and a runaway bride find a change of perspective in the Colorado Mountains. 

Brody McQuaid returns from The War Between the States a changed man, haunted by what he had seen he struggles to adjust to civilian life, causing his family to worry. I loved how supportive Brody's family is, especially Flynn. Flora is just the cutest little thing, her relationship with Brody is just so stinking adorable. Brody has a big heart, but he has trouble pushing past the nightmares. 

Savannah has a gift for healing and a heart for the hurting. Despite her father's wishes she just cannot resign herself to marrying the man that her father has chosen for her. I loved how she fits right in with the McQuaid clan from the get go, her love for the animals, and her heart for others. 

Overall, this was an enjoyable historical romance, set against the beautiful but treacherous Colorado mountains. I appreciated the strong themes of family being there through thick and thin. I liked getting to revisit the McQuaid family, seeing Linea and Flynn happily married, and I am looking forward to what is in store for Ivy and Dylan, especially Ivy as she has always has a way of putting things outright. Great for fans of Western romantic reads and fans of Ms. Hedlund's previous books!

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

Foundation of Love by Amy Clipston // Review

My Review: 

A wholly enjoyable romance of second chances, new beginnings and fighting for love. 

I was cheering for Crystal from the very beginning, she is hardworking and selfless to a fault. I adored that she and Duane are slightly older than your typical fictional couple, and have their own unique set of challenges to face together.

Engaging from the start, my heart went out to Crystal who longs for a family of her own, but things just didn't work out for her in the past. She has a heart for children, and selflessly helps her brother and sister-in-law. Duane is a kind-hearted man, he is wise and has done his best to raise his boys, I loved how the young children trusted him right away.

Overall, this was a wonderful read that I didn't want to put down. I related a lot to Crystal, and loved that she and Duane both stood up for their relationship. A well written read, with a heartwarming romance, adorable children, I loved how they both brought their relationship before God in prayer throughout the story. Highly recommend this well written, feel-good Amish romance. 

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

When the Meadow Blooms by Ann H. Gabhart // Review

Review: A powerful story of healing and restoration. 

Dirk Meadows has lived alone for a long time, with only his scars for company. 

Widow Rose is forced to put her children in an orphanage while she seeks treatment for consumption. But when a short term stay turns into a years long residency and her daughter ages out, they need a more permanent solution. So they write to Rose's brother-in-law, a recluse with a Farm in Kentucky. 

A  compelling read with excellent character development, with a powerful message of hope. I liked how this book was engaging, but at the same time it took the time to develop the characters and show how all of their lives change once they come to Meadowland. I liked how Rose and Cala hold to their faith through the challenges that they face. I think my favorite thing about this book was the effect that their arrival has on Dirk, pushing him outside of his insulated comfort zone. 

A poignant and beautifully rendered read, with a wonderful unfolding message of restoration, forgiveness, faith and family. 

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

The Rancher's Want Ad Mix-Up by Megan Besing // Just Read Tour, Review, and Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Rancher's Want Ad Mix-Up by Megan Besing, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Rancher's Want Ad Mix-Up 

Author: Megan Besing 

Publisher: Love Inspired Historical 

Release Date: April 26, 2022 

Genre: Inspirational Historical Romance 

A mail-order mistake… 

Or a made-to-be match? 

When Della Mae Wagner’s train arrives in Missouri, she’s shocked to find that the couple who hired her don’t just want a teacher for their grandsons but a wife for their son! After a broken engagement, marriage is not in Della’s plans. And Hank Lamson isn’t pleased—with his parents, with his unexpected guest or with Della’s unfairly appealing smile. But his plans to send her packing are foiled as his family comes to love her…and he feels the walls around his wounded heart start to fall. 

Review: An engaging read with a unique premise and well-meaning matchmakers. 

I liked Della from the start, she fits right in with the Lamsons. The boys adore her, and Hank's parents see her as an answer to prayers. Wally is a such a dear child, with a big heart, and I liked how he encourages his dad to give her a chance. Della does a great job of dealing with a difficult situation, she has a love of teaching and loves the boys, I really admired her for her courage and common sense. 

Hank is a little harder to love, as he digs in his heels at  his parent's plan from the start, as marrying again is not in his plans. I adored his parents, Alice and Roy they are so welcoming to Della and have done an excellent job helping with the raising of the boys. 

Overall, this was a wonderful mail-order bride romance with a twist. An engaging read with lovable characters and a strong heroine. I admired Della's strong faith, love and determination. Heartwarming, and full of faith, definitely would recommend!

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

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

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Despite always adoring happily-ever-afters, Megan Besing didn't unlock a love for reading until her mid-twenties, which quickly expanded into writing. Her own stories have won many awards, including the Selah for her novella, Perfect for the Preacher, along with the Pre-published Maggie for The Rancher’s Want Ad Mix-up. And now she’s thrilled to be a Sunrise Publishing author. However, her most cherished achievements are being a wife and mother. She lives in a pocket-size Indiana town, centered around extended family, where she's always planning a road trip with a view. Yet, her favorite place may just be on her front porch drinking tea. Connect with Megan at meganbesing.com.

CONNECT WITH MEGAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

Grand Prize Package: (1) winner will receive a $20 Amazon gift card, signed copy of The Rancher's Want Ad Mix-up, rose necklace, 1 Cor. 13:13 tote, apple oven mitt, apple kitchen towel, and a Great is Thy Faithfulness bookmark!

2nd Prize: (1) winner will receive an engraved rose leather journal!

Third Prize: (1) winner will receive a signed copy of The Rancher's Want Ad Mix-up!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight May 2, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on May 9, 2022. 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.

Dreams of Savannah by Roseanna M. White // Review

Review:

A novel set in the South during the Civil War that explores questions of faith , identity, love, and family. 

This was a slower read to start, and much of the beginning 40% lends itself to laying the groundwork and developing the characters, but if you hang in there it is all worth it. This book was different from others that I've read by this author, but not in a bad way. The plot was more character driven, and I think that she handled so many difficult subjects of racism and fighting for your family very well. 

I liked how Phin is challenged by his friendship with Luther to take a deep look at his beliefs and his faith, and even though he is a good man to start he becomes and even better man as he gives himself over to the Lord's work. Delia is fanciful and loves to make up stories of daring and heroism. I was pleasantly surprised by her maturity over the course of the book, and I loved how she stood by Selina. Luther was easy one of my favorite characters and I loved his dry sense of humor throughout. 

Overall, this book has a slow build, but don't let that fool you. It is a poignant read with strong themes of faith and fighting for what is right, that all came together in a satisfying ending. A worthwhile read for sure!

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

Death Valley Hideout by Dana Mentink // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review and Giveaway

 

About the Book

 

Book: Death Valley Hideout

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Christian fiction

Release date: April 26, 2022

Running from a murderer

with only the desert as refuge…

Placed in WITSEC while his brother testifies against a terrifying criminal, Tony Ortega must guard his young niece and nephew from the hit man hunting for them. Death Valley local Willow Duke’s hideout might just be the difference between the little family’s life or death. When bullets start flying, can they thwart a killer long enough to survive and become a family for real?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review: 

Tony Ortega finds himself in the desert with two small children after his brother's dirty dealings puts their lives in danger. After inadvertently pulling Willow Duke into danger as well, they must together fight for their lives.

A fast paced read that starts with action from the very start, I felt so bad for Tony and Willow who got swept into this whole mess through no fault of their own. I could understand Willow's distrust of Tony, but I liked how they worked together to keep the children safe. 

There is a lot going on, with a lot of action, and adorable children. Great tension, and a suspenseful plot that had me wondering if there was any way out. I liked seeing familiar faces from previous books in the series (though you can definitely read this as a standalone), and I admired Willow for her courage and quick thinking. 

Overall, this was an action packed adventure that kept me guessing, with strong themes of faith and family. A great installment to the series!

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

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author as well as a two-time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, and the recipient of a Holt Medallion. She’s written over fifty titles in the suspense, lighthearted romance and mystery genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming, and Poisoned Pen Press. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.)

 

More from Dana

Wooty woo! We’re back in Death Valley again! So excited about this fourth book in the series because Papa Bear and I have actually returned to this amazing place. (Our previous return trip was stalled for a while due to the virus that shall not be named!) People have asked me, “Why do you love Death Valley so much?” I can only respond that you just have to go there to understand. Is it the vastness of the place? The enormous topographical variety? Maybe it’s the profound quietness that permeates the national park and environs. Then again, it might be the panorama of nighttime stars. (Death Valley National Park is a certified International Dark Sky Park due to its limited light pollution.) Could it be the tenacity of people who live there and survive the one hundred twenty plus degree temperatures in the summer? And how about those animals? The Death Valley pupfish is a teeny little endangered fish that lives in precisely one spot on the globe (Death Valley) and only two places within that range, Salt Creek and Cottonball Marsh. Imagine that! So why set a six book series in Death Valley? Because there’s no more hostile and incredible place I can think of. I hope you will enjoy taking a fictional trip with me there too. Enjoy the adventure, reader friends!

Blog Stops

Remembrancy, April 21

Texas Book-aholic, April 21

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 22

Bigreadersite, April 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, April 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 23

Life, Love, Writing, April 24

For Him and My Family, April 24

Betti Mace, April 25

Inklings and notions, April 25

Locks, Hooks and Books, April 26

EmpowerMoms, April 26

deb’s Book Review, April 27

Blogging With Carol, April 27

For the Love of Literature, April 28

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, April 28

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, April 29

Simple Harvest Reads, April 29 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, April 30

Vicarious Living, April 30

Bizwings Blog, May 1

Blossoms and Blessings, May 1

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, May 2

Paula’s Persuasion, May 2

Labor Not in Vain, May 3

Through the Fire Blogs, May 3

Pause for Tales, May 4

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, May 4

To Everything There Is A Season, May 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize package of the first four books in the series-Framed in Death Valley, Missing in the Desert, Death Valley Doublecross and Death Valley Hideout (Paperback for U.S. Only) and a $50 Amazon gift card!!

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/1d0af/death-valley-hideout-celebration-tour-giveaway

Shadowed Loyalty by Roseanna M. White // Review

Shadowed Loyalty

Sabina Mancari never questioned her life as the daughter of Chicago’s leading mob boss until bullets tear apart her world and the man she thought she loved turns out to be an undercover Prohibition agent. Ambushes, bribes, murder, prostitution—all her life, her father sheltered her from his crimes, but now she can no longer turn away from the truth. Maybe Lorenzo, the fiancé who barely paid her any attention in the last two years, has the right idea by planning to escape their world. But can she truly turn her back on her family?

All his life, Lorenzo’s family assumed he would become a priest, but he has different ideas—marrying Sabina and pursuing a career in the law. Despite his morals, he knows at the core he isn’t so unlike his mafiosi father and brothers. Has he, in trying to protect Sabina, forced her into the arms of the Prohibition agent bent on tearing her family apart? How can they rebuild what has so long been neglected and do it in the shadow of the dark empire of the Mafia?

Shadowed Loyalty, set amid the glitz and scandal of the Roaring Twenties, examines what love really means and how we draw lines between family and our own convictions, especially when following one could mean losing the other.

Review:

Love, faith, family, and betrayal, set amidst the treacherous glamour of the Prohibition.

Sabina Mancari is shocked to find out that she was cruelly used by a man she thought she loved, at the cost of breaking the heart of another. As the velvet curtains part she sees the seedy underworld that has given her the charmed life that is all she's ever known. 

A tension fraught novel about the bonds of family and the pain of betrayal. Lorenzo has worked hard to escape the life of crime that he was raised in, only to find himself pulled into defending a Mafioso boss by the woman he cannot forget. I admired Enzo for his determination to rise above what he was born to, he has high moral standards, and I could definitely sympathize with how he felt torn in so many directions. 

This book has strong, well developed characters, and the stakes are high. I thought that Ms. White did an excellent job of bringing to life the chaotic glamour of the Mafia, the sting of betrayal and cut of revenge. The characters grew on me even more as the story progressed, and I liked that Sabina is forced to reckon with parts of her life that she had ignored, seeing things as they were and what kind of men Lorenzo and Roman were. 

Overall, a gripping read with well realized characters and excellent tension throughout that made the book hard to put down. I liked how Sabina, Lorenzo, Sally  and Roman were forced to come face to face with questions of family, faith, love and loyalty, and make choices for better or for worse. A thrilling novel with an explosive ending you won't want to miss!

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

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About the Author:

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.roseannamwhite.com

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