Aiming for Love by Mary Connealy ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Jo Nordegren grew up high in the Colorado Mountains, a self-taunt bow hunter, she's taken care of her sisters since the death of their parents and grandparents. The three sisters have worked together to survive in the mountains without any need for the outside world.

But when rancher Dave Warden and his mother, and wounded father show up on the mountain, in need of help, Jo and her sisters must decide whether they will take the risk to help them.

Jo is the middle sister of the three, she's always been curious about the outside world below despite their sheltered upbringing. She and her sisters share a close bond, working together to grow, hunt, and scavenge what they need. They have a genuine, but innocent faith, having large portions of Scripture and Aesop's Fables dedicated to memory. The coming of the Warden family is a blessing, but it also brings with it some of the sisters' biggest fears brought to life. Ursula is especially hesitant to give up their ways to help the outsiders.

David and his family are fighting for their ranch against a land grubbing gang of outlaw with the guns to take what they want. The Wardens drive their cattle up Hope Mountain in an effort to save their livestock. David admires Jo's keen outdoor skills, and how she and her sisters have survived for so many years. David's mother is a strong Christian woman, who takes the girls under her wing and helping them to fill in some gaps in their education.

An excellent beginning of a fantastic new series, with great introductions to all of the characters in this action packed tale of faith, family and friendship. An engaging read, with great storytelling, Ms. Connealy is in her element doing what she does best in this delightful read that I didn't want to put down.

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

Railway Jack by K.T. Johnston, illustrated by Cesar Samaniego ~ Review

My Review:

Based on a true story of a train track operator in South Africa, and his remarkable friend and coworker Jack the Baboon.

This picture book tells the story of Jim and Jack's remarkable partnership and friendship working on the South African rail lines. It is an inspiring true story, about overcoming physical obstacles and the bond of friendship. This book celebrates the early days before service animals were common place.

The illustrations are colorful, realistic, and classic, drawing on inspiration from real photographs of the dynamic duo of man and baboon.

I highly recommend this charming true story of a man and his faithful baboon as they worked together on the rails for 9 years until Jack's death.

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

Wyatt by Susan May Warren ~ Review, Just Read Book Tour, Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour and Giveaway for Wyatt, the fourth book of The Montana Marshalls series by Susan May Warren, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

 

Title: Wyatt 

Series: The Montana Marshalls, Book 4  

Author: Susan May Warren  

Publisher: SDG Publishing 

Release Date: October 2019  

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

He’s lost her twice…he’s not going to lose her again...

NHL Hockey Goalie Wyatt Marshall has everything--fame, money and a thriving career. But he’s hiding the two things that matter most...a career-ending injury, and his broken heart. He’s been in love with Coco Stanley since she walked into his life at age fourteen, a foster child for the Marshall family. She stole his heart years later, when, after a secret tryst, she returned to her home country of Russia. But she won’t let him back into her life—and he can’t figure out why.  

She’s harboring a secret that could cost lives...  

Coco Stanley is tired of living her life undercover. Or at least, with an assumed name, always pretending to be someone she’s not. And that’s not the only secret she’s harboring. If Wyatt discovers the real reason she left him, it might just destroy him. She’s resigned herself to loving him from afar...  

But when he discovers she’s in danger...  

Wyatt is horrified when he learns Coco has been shot and left in Russia, her fate unknown. There is nothing—nothing—that will stop him from finding her. So what if he’s not one of his super-heroic brothers, not a Ranger, not a SEAL...Wyatt is a hockey goalie, a special kind of crazy brave. Except, is he brave enough to face the secret Coco is keeping, or will it destroy everything he’s hoped for?  

What will it cost them to save her?  

What Wyatt and Coco don’t know is that revenge is stalking her and bringing her home just might cost them their long-awaited happy ending.  

Continue the breath-taking Montana Marshall series!

Review:

An action packed family affair.

Wyatt has always felt like the black sheep of the family choosing to pursue professional sports instead of staying to work the family ranch. He's worked so hard to reach the peak of his career, but now a secret from his past and a serious injury could end it all. Wyatt never stopped caring for his family's foster daughter, Coco, and has always wondered why she disappeared out of his life.

Wyatt lives a hyper focused life built around his career. He's good at focusing on one thing, and excelling, which is how he succeeded in the NHL. But new revelations about his sister and Coco has him off kilter, with his razor sharp focus spread thin. He is a talented player and he wants to be a good man, he has good mentors, family and friends all in his corner. He is good at being professional and working to play hard, but he tends to shy away from the personal.

This book brings back many family members from previous books as series long story threads are once again picked up as we discover more about Wyatt's sister Ruby Jane and her dangerous government job, as well as her mysterious friend, York. I love how the family has grown closer over time, and how supportive they are of each other, even though they have their differences. The fourth book of the series, I personally wouldn't read them out of order as things happen chronologically that drastically affect future events, each book picks up right after the last, and introduces you to the next sibling.

I have devoured every book so far in this series, and this one is no different. From the complex characters who grow in their character and faith throughout the series, as well as family and friendships that develop along the way.

This is a riveting read, with well paced storytelling that kept me engaged, and not wanting to put it down. Well worth the read. I can't wait to read Ruby Jane!

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

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award-winning novelist of over sixty-five novels. An eight-time Christy award finalist, a three-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.

A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: The Story Equation.

She is also the founder of MyBookTherapy.com, and Novel.Academy, a school for aspiring novelists.  
 CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Wyatt and a Montana Marshalls Magic Mug!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule shown below. Giveaway will begin at midnight October 2, 2019 and last through 11:59 PM EST on October 9, 2019. US only. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize.

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.

Diamond in the Rough by Jen Turano ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Poppy Garrison was raised out in the country on a horse ranch, but she accepts a proposition that she participate in a season, and in return her wealthy grandmother will cover her family's debts.

Her grandmother desperately wants Poppy to excel in high society as a diamond of the first water, instead she finds herself dodging one social disaster after another. Her grandmother asks Reginald Blackburn, 2nd son of a duke, to help Poppy to make a success of  her season.

Poppy is well out of her depth in high society, but I admired how she gives it her best effort. She has a no-nonsense sensibility, and doesn't see the purpose of all the hoopla and ceremony. She longs for a life of purpose beyond the next social outing. I admired her strength to stand up to her domineering grandmother, and how she stands up for herself.

Reginald has come to America to help his cousin Earl Charles Wynn find a wealthy American wife. But he is every bit the proper English gentleman, with no interest in an American wife, he has a secret of his own that he doesn't want to get out into society. But when word gets out that he is helping Poppy, mothers of other American heiresses leap at the opportunity to put their daughters under his cousin's nose. Reginald is intrigued by Poppy's forthrightness, honest charm and practical sensibilities which bring out a softer side in himself.

Jen Turano at her best, with this highly entertaining read with an admirable heroine, hilarious escapades, faith, friendship, and romance. Poppy shines as a true friend and encourager, finding her own place as a fish out of water. She befriends many others who struggle to fit the mold. Sparkling dialogue brings this book to life, especially between Poppy and Reginald. I loved the fast paced, twisting plot, with fantastic characters at every turn, plenty of laugh out loud humor. Utterly enjoyable, you won't want to miss it!


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

The Words Between Us by Erin Bartels ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Robin Windsor had her youth upended when her father and mother got caught up in political espionage, and she had to go and live with her grandmother, whom she had never met before. She found a refuge in literature, that helped her make it through, inspiring poetry and fueling her friendship with jock Peter Flint.

18 years later her father is scheduled for execution and she has mysteriously begun receiving books from her old high school friend, with no explanation. She's spent her whole life running from her past, is it about to be exposed?

Robin has spent her life, trying to distance herself from her notorious father. She's seen a lot of things in life, but has never been able to to escape the shame of her past. She works in a struggling bookstore, and is beginning to lose hope. Her friend Dawt is a bright spot of encouragement, and well of faith and humor. Robin has a passion for books and words. Her story is told in first person, present-tense, with dual timelines jumping between her childhood and the present day.

This is a meandering book, jumping in and out of the past as pieces from the past and the present day weave themselves together as Robin fights to find hope and forgiveness after long years of being alone with no one to turn to. I loved her parrot, who injects a healthy dose of humor to the read. It was hard to see a clear direction in this book, which added in many ways to the mystery and secrets of the story. A complex family drama, full of secrets. I wish there had been a little more emphasis on the faith aspects of this book. I had a hard time compiling my thoughts on this book, the ending felt like it came too soon. In the end I had very mixed feelings about this book, there were things that it did very well, yet there were other things that I felt could have been more fleshed out.

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

Foremost by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review:

Maribel grew up in a convent, dreaming of taking her vows and using her skills as a healer to be a blessing to others. The news that she is the second of the lost princesses change everything and she and her faithful friend, Edmund are swept into a battle for their very lives and the fate of the kingdom. But will the growing feelings between her and Edmund mean giving up her calling as a healer?

Maribel is passionate about helping others with her medical skills, she has learned all she can at the convent, and has aided many with her skills. She feels strongly about her calling, and selflessly puts herself at risk in order to help others. I admired her love for others, even her enemies.

Edmund and Maribel were raised together by the nuns, orphaned when Ethelwulf took the throne. Edmund was trained by an Elite Guard, as well as a Fera Agmen who can communicate with animals. Edmund is a brave, selfless, and willing to die for Maribel. Over the years he has come to see her as more than a friend. I admired how he respected her ambitions even at the cost of his heart.

There is plenty of action, as well as good dialogue and interaction between the main characters. I liked how this book focuses more on their quest for Solomon's treasure, drawing them ever closer to regaining their kingdom. I thought it interesting how this installment in the series incorporated more fantasy elements like the marvelous and fearsome creatures encountered and Edmund's ability to communicate so clearly with animals. One of my favorite things was the chemistry between Maribel and Edmund, taunt with tension, filled with hope, and unconditional.

Overall, a stunning installment in Ms. Hedlund's latest series, it brings the princesses one step closer to reclaiming their father's throne. Maribel is strong willed, compassionate, and a strong leader in a more supporting sense than her sister, yet still unafraid to stand up for what is right. I can't wait to see what will happen next and how Emmeline's story will tie them all together!


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

Something Needs to Change: A Call to Make Your Life Count in a World of Urgent Need by David Platt ~ Review

My Review:

David Platt tells of a life changing mission trip backpacking through the Himalaya Mountains, that altered the trajectory of his ministry. Seeing such desperate need in a remote area, still very unreached by the Gospel, people disabled by fast growing infections, rampant superstitions, and child prostitution.

Mr. Platt documents his journey day by day along with his daily Scripture reading through Luke, sharing interactions with the people he met as well as conversations with his travelling companions. He is very honest about how his perspective changed over the course of the journey, and he shares his heartfelt struggles with radically living the great commission.

I have read many other books by David Platt and I am a huge fan, and I really enjoyed how this book showed how parts of his ministry began and grew into his Radical ministry. This book had a different tone than his previous books, as it takes a more heartfelt, storytelling path, sharing his heart and calling us to action to step out from our American painted view of Christianity, but instead to live our faith Biblically.

Overall, a must read book for all Christians, very convicting, with hard truths, yet still encouraging, and inspiring. It is a good reminder that we are called and chosen to live God honoring lives, doing His work and spreading the Gospel. We are responsible to not turn a blind eye or be ignorant of the needs of others, not just physical or material, but most importantly of all their spiritual need for Christ.

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

House of Salt and Sorrow by Erin A. Craig ~ Review

My Review:

Annaleigh and her sisters are proud of their Salt nobility, raised to respect the waters of the sea. Once twelve, they are now seven, as one by one tragic accidents claim the lives of her mother and sisters, and it is rumored that their family is cursed.

Each death upends their family again and again, as well as their father's recent remarriage to a young second wife. Nightly balls distract the sisters from their sorrow, as nightmare, reality, and daydream blend together into a maddening fray where Annaleigh doesn't know who to trust, or what is real or just illusion.

A spellbinding and engrossing read that takes a familiar tale adding elements of seaside life and darker otherworldly elements. This is a strong debut, with defining attention to detail that made each of the seven sisters stay distinct in my head. This story was very good at keeping me guessing, with red herrings, blending mythology with the psychological. Annaleigh is a admirable young woman who never asked to be a heroine or bear her family's grief, she loves her family fiercely, and fights to bring them all together again.

A wonderfully told tale, with characters flawed in ways that brought them to life realistically. Powerful world building, mystery, intrigue, fantasy, and even romance, this book has a lot going for it. I really enjoyed the differing dynamics between the different sisters, as well as how they grieve and deal with the changes in their lives in their own ways. Even though there were some moments of more adult content, I felt like in the context of the story it was dealt with well in that it wasn't overly explicit. I stayed up way too late reading this one, so to say that it was gripping would not quite do it justice as I am a person who values good sleep. This surpassed my expectations, and I will definitely be on the lookout for future releases from Erin A. Craig. If you are a fan of YA fantasy with a fairy tale twist and don't mind them taking a darker turn than the original, then this one is for you!


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

This book is considered Young Adult General/Romance/Fantasy Fiction.

Content to consider -- May contain spoilers: Elements of madness, supernatural hauntings that manifest themselves in very startlingly violent images of deceased loved ones. A couple is walked in on while in the midst of copulation, moans, the character is aware that they are unclothed--but we are spared explicit detail. There are underworldly beings that harass humans, striking shocking bargains. One character consummates a bargain with such a creature, and violently this happens again to that character's shocking demise.

The Amish Christmas Matchmaker by Vannetta Chapman ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Annie Kauffman is coming into her own with a thriving catering business, and she is thriving in Indiana. Levi Lapp comes strolling in with his Stetson hat, appealing to her father's adventuring spirit, he convinces him to come back with Levi to Texas to start an Amish Colony there, which means that Annie would have to go to Texas as well. A friend suggests that if Annie helps him to find a wife, so that he won't want to move.

But the more time they spend together, the more Annie is confused and wonders if she can continue with her plan and stop herself from falling for him?

Annie doesn't want to move to Texas, she loves her life in Indiana. She is a clever, business minded woman who has worked hard to make her dreams come true. She challenges Levi's ideas, forcing him to troubleshoot problems that he had never anticipated.

Levi loved growing up in Texas and he wants to return, the colony that he was previously a part of failed due to a terrible drought. Annie's questions only prepare him more for Texas, by making him think up solutions to possible problems.

Overall, a charming, original Amish romance. I really liked the interaction between the characters, and how Annie and Levi start from such differing perspectives. A really enjoyable read from beginning to end!

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

One Final Breath by Lynn H. Blackburn ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Investigator Gabe Chavez and Dive Team Captain Anissa Bell find themselves working together when Gabe's current case has mysterious ties to a tragedy in Anissa's past.

Will they be able to catch the killer before it's too late?

An utterly fantastic, action-packed read. The third in a series, but the first book that I've read by this author, it wasn't hard to jump right in step with the characters in this thrilling, high stakes adventure.

Anissa and Gabe are both strong in their faith, they've worked together before but not to this extent. Anissa has always been at home in the water, raised the daughter of missionaries, she has always wanted to get justice for her friend. She is good leader, meticulous on the crime scene, with a strong sense for organization. Gabe is good at diffusing tense situations with humor. He is protective of Anissa and has admired her for a long time.

Overall, a fantastic read, with a complex mystery, well-developed characters, and plenty of action. I liked how this book balanced the action and suspense with great personal growth and depth. I loved the camaraderie between the dive team members, they are always encouraging each other, and are not afraid to give real advice. And if you are a Lynette Eason fan, you'll be thrilled as I was that a character from her  Blue Justice Series makes a cameo appearance!

Highly recommend this dynamic read, if you come in on the third book like me or if you have read the whole series, this isn't one that you'll want to miss!

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