Game Over by Andrew Klavan ~ Review

My Review:

Rick Dial is back in this pulse pounding read from thriller writer, Andrew Klavan. The walls between The Realm and RL are fracturing, and Rick is compromised. Ever since the last battle, his brain has been linked to Kurodar's, and in his dreams Kurodar finds his way into RL.

Will Rick be able to stop him, and save Favian and Mariel--or will they be trapped in the Realm as it comes crashing down?

The conclusion to Andrew Klavan's thrilling Mindwar Trilogy had me hanging on to the last, wondering if Rick would be strong enough for the final blow.

I really liked how we got to see more of Molly and who she is and why Rick is so drawn to her calming spirit.

Rick is a discerning hero, always thinking of others and what he can do. I loved how he because a symbol of hope to his friends in the Realm. I like how his passion for right and wrong, has grown, yet he is still compassionate.

Overall, a wonderful read, well written and action packed to the end. Rick Dial is an admirable hero, he has grown into a man of conviction and strength, with a strong faith. A terrific conclusion to the trilogy. I would definitely recommend this 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."

The Lost Heiress by Roseanna M. White ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

 British by birth, but raised in Monaco, Brook Eden has never felt that she fit in. So when her best friend, Justin, the heir of the Duke of Stafford, discovers that she is in fact the long lost daughter of the Earl of Whitby.
Though welcoming at first, the road to acceptance is never what it seems, with the mystery of her mother's death, and hidden treachery, Brook must take a care, and find who her true friends are in the glitter and glamour of society.

A wonderfully lush read, that took me from the sunsets of Monaco to the glitz of London's high society. Love and betrayal, humor and danger, this book takes one through a panoramic scope of emotions.

Brook is spirited and impetuous, always ready for a challenge or an adventure. Justin is ever a true friend to Brook, always watching out for her best interests and trying to help her, until circumstances pull him away.

Overall, a well written read, engaging from the start, with many twists and turns along the way. A courageous heroine, Brook is smart and independent. Full of action, suspense, humor, faith, romance, and mystery, this book is everything one could hope for. 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."

Small Town Justice by Valerie Hansen ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Shane Colton is something of a reluctant hero, and he refuses to walk away from someone who needs help even though her brother killed his father.

Jamie Lynn Henderson returns to Serenity in search of the truth about what happened to her family when she was young, and why her brother confessed to having hit Sheriff Colton with his car.

Will Shane and Jamie be able to uncover the truth?

Full of memorable characters, I loved the multiple interactions and Jamie's spunky little dog, that Shane has started to call Useless.

The deeper they get, the more the danger grows, and they must find out the truth before it's too late. I liked how family was a big part of this book, with Shane's mother and son, Kyle--who happens to think that Useless is the best dog in the world. There's great dialog and great relationship building.

Overall, a fast paced and engaging read, with memorable characters, faith, family, and plenty of action. I liked how Shane is open about his faith, and encourages Jamie to selve depper in her faith.
A great read, I'd definitely recommend!



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

The Preacher's Lady by Lori Copeland ~ Review

Lucie's Review:



Bo and Elly were childhood sweethearts, but before settling down Bo wanted to see more of the world. Now seven years later he's back and he's become a preacher.

Elly doesn't like Bo's new profession, she grew up on sermons about fire and brimstone, that left her fearful and frustrated and did little to grow her faith. But she's determined not to let his return change things, so she goes forward with plans to marry Gideon.

Will Elly marry Gideon after all, or will Bo help her find out where true love come from?

A fun humorous read, with several situations that were just hilarious. I like that Bo really is sorry for the pain that he caused Elly and he wants to make things right and help her understand that a relationship with God isn't all fire and brimstone.

Overall, a well written and entertaining read, full of surprises, and great characters that grow over the course of the book.


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

The Timeless Love Collection by DiAnn Mills, Darlene Mindrup, Lynn A. Coleman, Jennifer Rogers Spinola, Pamela Kaye Tracy, Dianne Christner, Nancy J. Farrier, and Tamela Hancock Murray ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

A Valentine for Prudence is s sweet tale about Prudence who is often looked over, and passed over for her pretty sisters. When on young man sees this he decides to send her a Valentine from a secret admirer. A wonderful heartwarming read that though I've read it before in another publication, was still one of my very favorites in the collection.

The next four stories are all connected and are about Harvey Girls who work at a hotel by the Grand Canyon. Each one follows a different girl in her journey to love.

Armed and Dangerous finds our heroine on a train reading a dime novel. But when the train is robbed, she teams up with the Texas Ranger in order to bring the criminal to justice.

The Richest Knight is a story about meeting in the middle for love. Lillian wants to marry for money, but when she falls for a man who spurned his fortune to make his own way, she must decide what true wealth is.

Shelter from the Storm is a touching and poignant read, about a woman who flees her abusive husband--and just when she thinks she's safe a face from the past shows up to change everything.

Olympic Hopes is an interesting story about the struggles faced when trying to hold the Olympic during the Depression--well researched, I learned quite a bit as I had not really thought about this before.

Beyond the Memories Maime has turned her home into a refuge for Veterans, the day after her cook quits, Hank shows up and agrees to take on the job. But will his secret past keep them apart?

Finding Yesterday is a drama filled adventure, about a man who has taken great strides towards turning his life around with the CCC. Set in Yellowstone, Wyoming.

Goodie Goodie is a humorous read, about new opportunities. When the heroine sees the new guy in town she can't help but laugh at his mode of transportation--until she finds out that she has to ride in it!!


A wonderful collection full of varied and unique stories, some of which I had read before published in another collection. An enjoyable read with themes of faith and forgiveness.

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 Husband for Mari by Emma Miller ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Mari never intended to leave the Amish way of life, but when she became pregnant with her son Zachary, she left so she wouldn't have to give up her son like her uncle wanted her to do.

So when Mari returns she is grateful to Sara, who offers her a place to stay. Mari easily adjust to living Amish again, but Zachary struggles and doesn't want to stay.

James is a carpenter working on Sara's house to build an addition, he quickly bonds with Zachary asking him to help, while he shows him how to do things.

Will Mari find the new start she was hoping for in Seven Poplars?

A heartwarming read, I loved how the community welcomed Mari back, and didn't pressure her to make a choice one way or the other, they just welcomed her and made her feel at home. Even the boys Zachary's age make an effort to make him feel included. Ellie was a good friend to Mari and Zachary.

James is a great friend to both Mari and Zachary, and often offered sound advice. He is kind, and patient.

I really enjoyed returning to Seven Poplars and catching up with so many of the characters.

Overall, a very enjoyable read, about second chances, forgiveness, and friendship, with characters that will endear themselves to you. A wonderful heartwarming 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."

Amish Christmas at Northstar by Cindy Woodsmall, Mindy Starns Clark with Emily Clark, Amanda Flower, and Katie Ganshert ~ Review

My Review:

Chase Wellington stumbles upon a story about a midwife who bravely birthed four children in one night, those children grew up to be known as Rebekah's Babies.


When Chase hears about the girl who disappeared he is intrigued and but his detective skills to work to find her.

Elle McAllister was adopted as a child by two loving parents, she never dreamed that young man who show up insisting on digging into her past. Will the discovery encourage forgiveness or dig up old fights?

When a a dear friend dies, Eden and her friend Gina are determined to discover the truth. Was it really an accident?

Savilla Beiler pushed Kore away when she needed his friendship and love the most, keeping her painful secret hidden. But when Kore returns to Northstar, will they find that their differences aren't so big after all, as they try to help a family in danger of being torn apart.


Sam is determined to bring his brother, Andy home for Christmas. So he get's a job working for Mr. Cook, cleaning up his home in order to earn the money. A heartwarming read, of a romance told with a different angle to it.


Four couples find/rekindle love at Christmastime in this lovely collection, that follows the lives and loves of Rebekah's babies. I loved every single one the stories, they were all different and unique. Touching, with themes of forgiveness and family. I really liked Elle, and how she was loved and accepted by her newfound family, and how supportive her adoptive family has always been of her. Eden is  strong character, level headed, and determined. I really liked how supportive Kore and Savilla's friends were, through everything and how they were able to work together to care for the children. I loved Sam and his love for his brother, and how he helped Mr. Cook to open up and face things that he'd been avoiding for so long.

A wonderful, enjoyable read, perfect for Christmastime with it's short tender reads, that are easy to pick up during a busy December. Definitely recommend!



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

Calico Spy by Margaret Brownley ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Katie  is a Pinkerton Detective, undercover as a Harvey Girl, in order to unravel the mystery of who is behind the recent murder of two Harvey Girls. She is intelligent, observant, and quick on her feet. But Sheriff Branch Whitman, doesn't like the thought of a woman Pinkerton, nosing in on his investigation.

Will they be able to come together in order to solve the murders, before someone else get's killed?

Full of action and adventure, this is a fast paced read full of humor and also great interactions. I like how both Branch and Katie find themselves tested, and forced to rely on their strong faith.

Branch is a Sheriff and a father, two jobs that he takes very seriously, especially after his wife died.

Overall, this is a very well done entertaining read, with a lot going on and multiple characters, and clues that keep you guessing the whole way through. Great for fans of Western Romance, and like a book to keep one on their toes and also bring a smile to the face :)




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."

An Amish Year by Beth Wiseman ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Four lovely stories by Beth Wiseman.

Rosemary and Paul get a second chance at love, when Paul refuses to give up on her, and continues to respectfully pursue her. And is there to help when her family needs it most.

Jonas has loved Irma Rose since the first time that he saw her, but she thinks his ways are too wild for her. But God uses his out of the box thinking for good, could it perhaps bring them back together?

Patchwork Perfect, was my favorite story of the four. Miriam used to babysit for the young people of the community and she still stays in touch with most of the kids. Eli and Grace's father is a widower looking for a wife, and everyone knows it, leading to some hilarious situations.

The last story is a touching Christmas tale of Katherine a widow with four children, and James Zook shows up out of the blue helping them heal and entertaining them with crazy tall tales.

Overall, a fantastic collection. The stories are not related, though each happens in a different part of the year in a different season. A wonderful read, with great touching stories, of love and friendship.

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."

Hostage Run by Andrew Klavan ~ Review

My Review:



Rick Dial is back in the second installment of the Mindwar Trilogy he returns to the realm, on a life threatening mission to bring down Kurodar,
and save Mariel and Favian. But Rick isn't the only one in danger, his whole family is, and anyone associated with him--like his friend Molly, who is taken by Kurodar's thugs. Will Rick be able to thwart Kurodar and save the ones dear to him, before time runs out?

The action-packed, non-stop follow up to Mindwar, picks up pretty much right after the previous book, making it very important to read the first book as much of this book is built on assuming knowledge of the previous events. Though it does recount a few things in passing, making it easy to dive right into if it's been a while since reading the first book.

Rick is weakened by his last foray into the Realm, but it has never been so important that he return, as the walls that separate the realm from reality are crumbling, and Kurodar sets his sights on the real world.

A terrific read, that reads as an essential part of the saga, and not like a filler at all, which is so often the case with second books. I loved Rick Dial, as he is a young man, who is brave and heroic, yet he struggles with his own temptations. He's admirable, yet also relate-ably human.

Overall, a terrific addition to the series, sure to thrill and entertain. Riveting to the last, Mr. Klavan's excellent world building skills bring the story to life, with his wonderful grasp of blending fantasy and reality.

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."