Detecting Concealed Evidence by Dana Mentink // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book: Detecting Concealed Evidence (Security Hounds Investigations Book 5)

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: August 6, 2025

A panicked call sends detective Chase Wolfe and his search-and-rescue bloodhound, Tank, racing right into the path of his neighbor—who’s just barely escaped an abduction. But Pilar Alonso has no idea who’s after her or why. Now she must rely on Chase to keep her safe while they work together to track down the unknown assailants targeting her. Only, their investigation reveals layers of a much more sinister agenda, and danger is rapidly closing in. Drawn into a web of deceit, can they untangle the mystery…before they’re permanently silenced?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

A fast-paced read, filled with mystery and suspense as Chase, Tank, and Pilar try to figure out who is after her, and what they are searching for. 

High suspense, strong faith, great interaction and character growth. I liked how Chase and Pilar take time to get to know each other and develop their relationship outside of the case. You can read this as a stand alone, but you will really appreciate the familiar side characters if you have been following along with the series. I liked how Chase was there to help Pilar, and how he insisted on helping her and her family. 

Wonderful page-turner, I loved how it all came together, and we grow to love not jut Pilar and Chase, but their whole families as well. There are moments of humor, and I liked how it showed the reality of seeing your parents age. Fantastic read from beginning to end!

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 a Holt Medallion winner. She is the author of over fifty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Revell and Poisoned Pen Press.

 

 

 

More from Dana

Those bloodhounds are galloping on through this Security Hounds series, aren’t they? Here in book #5, we have Chase and the unbelievably chill Tank. They couldn’t be more opposite. Tank is the kind of dog who only leaves his sunny napping spot when there’s an urgent need to do so. Chase is an energetic, unrestrained, human who gets caught up in the life of the reserved Pilar, a cello player who is simply trying to earn a few extra dollars when her delivery van is forced off the road and she’s kidnapped. That’s only the beginning of the adventure. I hope you will enjoy Tank, who falls deeply in love with Pilar’s cello music, and Pilar and Chase, who definitely got off on the wrong foot when they first met. And what is the object the killer is desperate to get his hands on? Hope you enjoy the ride!

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 23

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 23

The Avid Reader, September 24

Devoted To Hope, September 24

She Lives To Read, September 25

Blossoms and Blessings, September 25

Betti Mace, September 26

Texas Book-aholic, September 27

Labor Not in Vain , September 27

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 28

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 29

Holly’s Book Corner, September 29

Bizwings Blog, September 30

Life on Chickadee Lane, October 1

Pause for Tales, October 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 2

For Him and My Family, October 3

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 3

Blogging With Carol, October 4

Simple Harvest Reads, October 5 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Lights in a Dark World, October 5

EmpowerMoms, October 6

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

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

https://sweepwidget.com/c/92607-ugsyewij

Come Down Somewhere by Jennifer L. Wright // Review

My Review: 

A compelling split time novel that follow two very different young women who became friends. Olive tells her story from the 1940's while, Jo tells her story from years later coming back to Alamogordo, and looking back at the Trinity nuclear bomb test of 1945.

A  coming of age story story of two young women who though very different found a friendship. A compelling novel, that intensifies as the little pieces begin to click together, in this incredible story of faith, resilience, and friendship. Olive hates that she has been sent to live in town with her grandmother, while the rest of her family stays on the ranch. She doesn't know what to do with ever cheerful Jo Hawthorne, who seems to have everything figured out. But there are secrets going around that not everything is as it appears, and there is more going on at the ranch than her family lets on. 

Jo comes back to Alamogordo to tie up things as her father is dying, but she has also come for answers. I loved how the story is told by both the friends, but in different times. It's a powerful story of faith and friendship, and explores how we don't always know the other side of the story and what others are going through. Jo struggles with her faith later in life, but it was so powerful to see how seeds planted along the way can grow when you aren't looking. The author does a great job of bringing to life the tragedy of what happened at Trinity, realistically showing the tensions and sacrifices. A highly compelling read, wonderfully crafted, and powerful. Definitely recommend!

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

The Summer of You and Me by Denise Hunter // Review

My Review: 

When Maggie catches a glimpse of a young man who is a dead ringer of her late husband she has to know who he is and why he looks so much like Ethan. Josh has loved Maggie since they were young, but his brother married her. He is determined to help her find the answers she is looking for, but where will questions lead?

An engaging romantic drama, with an intriguing plot, plenty of drama, and a second chance at romance. Josh has loved Maggie almost his whole life, and will do anything he can to help her and her daughter find peace. Together they navigate their family history and their growing relationship, along with their families. Josh and Maggie have grown a lot as people and in their faith sine they first met. Maggie is an amazing mother, and is just starting to accept that she could find love again. Josh recovered from a serious illness as a young man, and has been through a lot of failed relationships, but he has worked through a lot of that and wants to be the best he can be for Maggie and her little girl. 

A compelling read, full of second chances, and new beginnings. I liked how it dealt with complicated and less than ideal family dynamics and relationships in a real and relatable way, with a focus on setting healthy boundaries. Satisfying second chance romance. 

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

On a Midnight Clear by Tracie Peterson, Misty M. Beller, Karen Witemeyer

Review:

The Shepherd's Heart by Tracie Peterson
Angel accepts a marriage of convenience with a widowed Wyoming sheep rancher, with two small children. She comes to care for the children quickly, teaching them at home, and quietly winning them over. A heartwarming slow burn romance, with endearing characters, and a heroine that you can't help but love! A heartfelt western read, with great characters, and a satisfying ending.

No Room at the Inn by Misty M. Beller
Hope and her brother run an inn along the stagecoach route, when a snowstorm rolls in Noah and his charge find themselves snowbound. Can Hope and Noah solve the mystery of the missing heirloom and perhaps take a chance on love? A sweet western romance that takes place over the course of a snowstorm, bringing two hearts together in an unlikely way. Hope is a capable young woman, and she and Noah make a great team. Enjoyable read.

A Star in the West by Karen Witemeyer
Stella Barrington and Frank Stenz strike up a written correspondence at the encouragement of her father, and as the conversation turns to romance they both wonder if they will be found lacking in the other's eyes when they finally meet in person. Such a sweet heartwarming romance that gave me all warm fuzzies, and had me grinning ear to ear. I loved how their faith was very important to both Stella and Frank. We also get to know Frank's colleagues who are also very academic, and going through struggles of their own. A fun story that has clever humor, and a full cast of characters. My heart instantly went out to Stella, who sees herself as not conventionally beautiful. I love how they both see the best in each other. Such an adorable and satisfying Christmas novella!

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

Heir of Light by Jill Williamson and Niki Florica // Review

My Review:

A swashbuckling tale of friendship, full of action and intrigue. 

Rigil Barak has never forgotten the feisty bloodvoicer he left behind, when their paths cross again he is determined to d everything he can to keep her safe from evil forces set on using her unique gift for evil. 

Action packed adventure, filled with high risk situations. I liked that Rigil and Sethe were given the chance to reconnect and work together to escape Nedir. Rigil has worked hard to make up for his past, while balancing his responsibilities as a leader. Sethe has spent her life either in captivity or on the run, and she knows nothing but a life of being betrayed. I really liked how this book adds to the lore and gives a glimpse at a unique bloodvoicer. 

I really liked Mazaedo with his love of food and optimistic outlook, despite his past. Fantastic addition to the Blood of Kings realm, well written and pretty much nonstop action and challenges to overcome. Strong themes of faith, woven into a fast paced fantasy adventure. Highly recommend. 

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

Their Texas Christmas Redemption by Mindy Obenhaus // Just Read

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Their Texas Christmas Redemption by Mindy Obenhaus hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

 

Title: Their Texas Christmas Redemption 

Series: Legacy Ranch #2 

Author: Mindy Obenhaus 

Publisher: Love Inspired 

Release Date: September 30, 2025 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance 

Tis the season for a second chance at love. 

Back home at her family’s Texas ranch for the holidays, the last thing Audrey Caldwell expects to see is her ex-husband, Tyler, on her doorstep—with his orphaned niece. The sweet baby in his arms brings up painful memories that she’d rather forget, but when little Willow gets sick, Audrey can’t turn them away. She offers to care for the baby if Tyler agrees to do some construction projects on the ranch. As they work together on a community Christmas event, neither can deny their growing connection. Can they heal their deepest wounds and find their way back to the family they always wanted?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Harlequin | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub | Bookshop

Review: 

Audrey has a gift for creativity and has been back in her hometown working with her aunt to turn the family ranch into a event venue and weekend getaway. She is surprised to run into her ex husband there, with a new baby girl in tow. Can they turn their reunion into a second chance?

A heartwarming Christmastime second chance romance, with an adorable baby, likable characters that you can cheer for throughout. Audrey and Tyler have grown a lot since they were together, and I liked that this story had a strong core of faith. Tyler and Audrey both have to deal with their past hurts, they have done a lot of healing. Willow is so adorable.

A heartwarming story of faith and finding second chances. Strong character backstory, a full cast of characters, and with a satisfying story arc. Engaging read, with well developed characters, and a touching story. Highly recommend!

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

More in this Series:

---

About the Author

Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching heartwarming romance movies.

Connect with Mindy by visiting MindyObenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Their Texas Christmas Redemption and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 22, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 29, 2025. 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

---

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

Dot Conner: Webtective // Review and Giveaway // In Theaters September 19th!

Watch this fun, God-honoring film with your family - Dot Conner: Webtective is only in theaters starting September 19! 

 Internet sleuth (or "webtective") Dot Conner receives a cryptic phone call from her father on the eve of her first day of high school, plunging her into an adventure she never expected to face. As Dot navigates the rocky start of her high school life, she uncovers the first of many clues her father has left behind, setting her on an urban treasure hunt with friends Makayla and Alex. Their quest leads them through the city, crossing paths with dangerous Russian thugs as they go. What begins as a search for her father quickly unravels into a much larger mystery, revealing his deep involvement in the world of espionage. Amid the chaos, Dot discovers the truth of Philippians 4:13, proving that even in the darkest times, faith can light the way. 

 Buy tickets today to see Dot Conner: Webtective in theaters starting September 19!

My Review: 

Fun-filled adventure for the whole family, wholesome humor, with a core of faith. 

Action-packed adventure, that blends humor and intrigue, with solid lessons of trusting in God even when things go wrong. When Dot's father sends out mysterious coordinates, she knows that it's more than a random message. Dot and her friends decide to follow the clues, all while navigating high school for the first time!

A well done film, with a talented cast, and a compelling storyline. The film is upbeat, well paced, with a good sense of humor, and plenty of action. I liked how Dot encourages others to look to God as the direct source for truth, and how she and her friends work together to complete their mission.

Overall, a highly engaging and entertaining film for the whole family, filled with action and a strong message of faith. Highly recommend!

 #DotConnerWebtectiveMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

 Many thanks to Huff Media Productions and Pangea Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

 Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard (Note: This is limited to US winners only). a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Atlas of Untold Stories by Sara Brunsvold // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Chloe Vance plans a trip with her mother and sister in order to break the news that she has accepted a job overseas, the trip will take them on a literary adventure across the Midwest as they learn more about the lives of their literary heroes and themselves. 

A character and relationship driven read, about mothers, daughters, and sisters, who are all very different women. I loved how they travelled through the Midwest, delving into the lives of some of my favorite authors. It is a slow burn read, as in the beginning of the story all of the women have their guards up and as they travel along and things happen them slowly start to open up to each other. There is a lot of character growth, family drama and interaction. I liked how the story tackles complex familial relationships in a realistic way, showing that more often than not it is far from ideal. 

Overall, a well written read that explores the complex family dynamics, as they work towards a more honest and accepting relationship with each other. 

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

Sonora by Jenni L. Walsh // Review

My Review: 

One of my favorite movies growing up was Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken, so I was thrilled to read the familiar, yet more true to life version of her story. 

A compelling coming of age tale, based on a true story about a girl finding her way and finding family in unexpected places. A well-written novel, with good attention to detail and sense of the time period. It was understandable that she fought insecurities, but I admired her courage to keep doing what she had grown to love. I liked that parts about how she learned all the different quirks that each horse had. As well as seeing her grow into a healthy and loving relationship.

Overall, an exhilarating and compelling coming of age story. Sonora deals with being out on her own, making new friends, finding love, and dealing with complicated family relationships. An amazing story of grit and perseverance, as well as an extraordinary love. Thoroughly enjoyable historical novel set in the 1920's. 

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

Fire Mountain by Dana Mentink // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book: Fire Mountain (Elements of Danger Series)

Author: Dana Mentink

Genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense

Release Date: July 1, 2025

In the shadow of a threatening volcano, long-haul trucker Kit Garrido wakes up in her crashed big rig, unable to recall what happened or why she’s suddenly in possession of someone’s baby. Fiercely independent, she has to admit that perhaps this time she could use a little help.

As the threat of eruption grows, former cop Cullen Landry refuses to leave his cabin in the evacuation area, which is why he’s the only one left who can help Kit escape the crumpled cab of her truck. He doesn’t want to get tangled up in the mystery of the beautiful woman with an abandoned infant, but when he sees the bullet hole in the windshield and the bloody handprint on the interior, he realizes that he’s in this thing, like it or not.

When two armed men with ill intent approach, the race is on to stay alive, discover the truth, and find the baby’s missing mother–all while a deadly mountain rains fire from above.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

In the shadow of an erupting volcano, Kit and Cullen find themselves thrown together in an unimaginable race against time to unravel what happened and who left a baby girl in their charge. 

Kit Garrido is a long-haul truck driver who awakens to find her truck crashed and a baby girl in her sleeper cab, Cullen Landry is a local former cop who is refusing to evacuate in the face of the coming volcano. Together they work together, determined to survive and find answers. I liked how Cullen steps up to help Kit and little Tot, despite having no former connection to either. Cullen knows the mountains and the people; he has good survival instincts. I admired his strong faith and protectiveness of both Kit and Tot. Kit has been through a lot in her life, but she can't remember what happen right before the crash. She is resilient and capable in the face of danger. I liked how she just kept going, even with everything being thrown at her. 

I liked how there was a lot going on, but Kit and Cullen take their time learning to trust each other and I liked how they work together to keep Tot safe and find answers. A fast-paced suspense, with something coming at them from multiple angles, with the survival aspect, as well as some unsavory characters in pursuit. Hard to put down, with great relationship building and strong themes of faith! 

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 a Holt Medallion winner. She is the author of over fifty titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Revell and Poisoned Pen Press.

 

 

 

More from Dana

Hello, dear readers! Are you ready to leap into the world of a woman trapped near an erupting volcano? I know. Dropping that character into circumstances where the very earth under their feet is unreliable, where they are cut off from their technology, their transportation, civilization itself with no way to summon help, feels almost cruel. Imagine you’re in a volcano eruption zone with no way out. Now add in a stranger’s baby, a vulnerable infant, , and you are their only hope to stay alive. Why am I so compelled by those scenarios? Me, the woman who loses her backpack in the airport. I believe it’s because in those difficult, stressful moments when we accept our own helplessness that the grace of God shines brightest. Real people and fictional ones survive. Wells of strength are discovered. Hidden rivers of resilience surface. Big cities, island roads, overpasses, in the shadows of volcanoes… in the darkest moments we realize we’re never truly without His help.

Blog Stops

Devoted To Hope, September 5

Texas Book-aholic, September 6

EmpowerMoms, September 6

Blossoms and Blessings, September 7

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 8

Labor Not in Vain , September 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, September 9

The Sacred Line, September 10

The Avid Reader, September 10

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, September 11

Cover Lover Book Review, September 12

For Him and My Family, September 12

Lights in a Dark World, September 13

Tell Tale Book Reviews, September 14

Holly’s Book Corner, September 14

Blogging With Carol, September 15

Lily’s Corner, September 16

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, September 16

Simple Harvest Reads, September 17 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Life on Chickadee Lane, September 18

Pause for Tales, September 18

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away the grand prize of a $100 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of the book!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf54292

Light of the World // Movie Review // Momentum Interview and Giveaway

This beautiful, 2D-animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today! 

 If you are a fan of the 1990s golden era of 2D, hand-drawn animation, you will love this movie.Director Tom Bancroft was a long-time animator with Disney who worked on The Lion King, Mulan, and Beauty and the Beast. 

 This is the first movie from Salvation Poem Project, a ministry committed to sharing Jesus with the world. 

 LIGHT OF THE WORLD opens in theaters September 5! 

 Show your support by going opening weekend (Sept. 4-7 ... special early showings on Thursday) (If you have a group of 10 or more people, you can get group tickets for just $7.50 a person!) lightoftheworld.com

My Review:

A new animated film for the whole family that tells the story of Jesus through the eyes of John, the youngest of the twelve, and the one whom Jesus loved.

An engaging film that follows John's gospel account, drawing out the theme of God as love, and the truth of the Gospel message being for everyone. The story is told in a way that kids can understand, with some slight fictional license taken to help draw out main themes. A well-crafted screenplay, great for all ages, with strong themes of faith, trusting God, Jesus as God, God's love, and how the gospel is an invitation to all. 

I loved how this telling really takes into account how young all of the twelve were, and how big a thing it was to leave the close family structures that were the norm to follow Jesus. It also does a great job of portraying the political pressures from Rome as wells as the Jewish Pharisees. It's also a coming-of-age story for John, as the youngest of the twelve, whom many scholars estimate to have been around 14 when he was called. 

Overall, a wonderful film for the whole family, done in a nostalgic animation style, telling the greatest story ever told. It does a great job of drawing out big themes in a way that kids can understand, while keeping it interesting for the adults. A fantastic film for all ages. 

 #LightoftheWorldMIN 

 Many thanks to Salvation Poem for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

 Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard. US-only residents, and those who haven't won via another blogger's campaign.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Scheming in Parliament by Erica Vetsch // JustRead

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Scheming in Parliament by Erica Vetsch hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

 

Title: A Scheming in Parliament 

Series: Of Cloaks & Daggers #2 

Author: Erica Vetsch 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: August 26, 2025 

Genre: Regency Mystery Romance 

 Evil is masquerading in the halls of Parliament, and Sir Bertrand Thorndike is tasked with investigating from the inside. With his new position as a member of the House of Commons, he has access to the power brokers of English government. His tactic is to listen and learn, careful not to reveal his true motives, and he's quickly inducted into the mysterious Theban Club. 

Miss Philippa Cashel's mission, the Princess Charlotte Eleos School for Women in Need, is thriving with donations, and the students are learning skills to help them earn their livings in honorable ways. But when a dear friend's past is revealed by blackmail, Philippa must wrestle with the question, Is it ever right to do the wrong thing? 

Bertie's and Philippa's missions collide when Bertie uncovers a dangerous plot involving vulnerable women. He and Philippa join forces against the corruption threatening to topple England's government, all while navigating their outward reputations and inward feelings for each other.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

Lucie's Review: 

A little bit slow to start, it quickly picks up speed as the pieces begin to fall into place. Sir Bertrand Thorndike has taken his place in the House of Commons listening for clues as to the goings on of a mysterious club, while Philippa is working alongside women in search of a better life, when she discovers one of them is being blackmailed. 

Bertie and Philippa have taken different paths, and they are both set on achieving good in their separate endeavors. But as they find that their quests are entwined, they find themselves working together again and wondering if there is a future for them together. 

Engaging world building, strong faith, and great characters. I loved the full cast of characters, moments of humor, and continued character growth. I really liked the school's curate, Mr. Hewitt and how he shares journey and does his best to set a good example for the girls at the school. 

Overall, a wonderful addition to the series, with a great build up to the fast-paced climax. It sets up well for the next book in the series as well, and I liked how Philippa and Bertie were brought back together by working together. Well-written adventure, set in regency England, I will definitely be picking up the next book in the series!

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

More in this Series:

---

About the Author

Erica Vetsch is a New York Times best-selling author and ACFW Carol Award winner, and has been a Romantic Times top pick for her previous books. She loves Jesus, history, romance, and watching sports. This transplanted Kansan now makes her home in Rochester, Minnesota. Learn more about Erica at ericavetsch.com.

Connect with Erica by visiting ericavetsch.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Scheming in Parliament and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 3, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 10, 2025. 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

---

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

The Secret Investigator of Astor Street by Stephanie Morrill // Review

My Review: 

The long awaited sequel to The Lost Girl of Astor Street finds Piper Sail navigating life after high school, and taking on the case of a investigating a young man's mysterious death. 

An engaging read that brings to life the class divide of the the 1920's, as Piper balances her life as a society girl where an advantageous marriage is still expected and her investigations into the seedier mafia underside of Chicago. A well written read that evokes the time period well, and does a good job of presenting complex family dynamics, and coming of age in 1920's Chicago, we see Piper's home life change as well as her relationship with Mariano mature and grow. 

A solid historical fiction read that deals with tough topics, growing up, family, and love. I liked that we see Piper deal with not knowing all the answers, but pushing forward and searching for answers. She's ready for the most daring of challenges, and is spunky enough to take risks in search of truth. Great balance between the mystery, as well as character growth and interactions, with a compelling storyline. It didn't disappoint!

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