Voice of the Ancient by Connilyn Cossette // Review

 

My Review: 

A compelling new chapter in Cossette's Old Testament Saga that stands well on it's own, but is also a wonderful addition with familiar faces that you will recognize if you have been following along. 

Avidan goes with his cousins to fight with the newly anointed Saul, but a rift separates him from his cousins and instead his path crosses with that of Keziah, who is escaping an unwanted marriage. Together can they face the challenges before them and trust in the Mighty God who brought them together?

A well crafted novel set in the tumultuous time right after Saul is anointed king over Israel, I loved how the author brings this time period to life, showing the division and disunity of the times. Keziah has a beautiful horse, I loved his loyalty to her and protective nature. Avidan is a faithful friend, and I liked seeing how he matures over the course of the book, recalling the histories of his people and sharing it with others. 

Overall, this was a well done Biblical novel about a time period that I don't think I've often seen tackled in fiction before. I liked how the author brings to life the times through fictional characters, so that we can imagine what life might have been like for the Israelites. Engaging and well written, with captivating characters, plenty of adventure, romance and faith. 

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

One Last Stand by Susan May Warren // Review

Lucie's Review: 

London Brook's past is coming after her, and she must stay one step ahead in order to keep them from taking everything and everyone she loves again. Shep doesn't know everything in London's past, but he knows that now that he's found her again he will do everything he can to help her put her past to rest.

A fast paced read, with plenty of familiar faces, with a twisting plot that kept me on my toes. I liked the blend of high stakes suspense with dangerous surviving against the wilderness. Great protagonists, with wonderful character development along the way. I liked how Shep is determined to be by London's side through all of this. 

Overall, a great addition to the series, with a lot going on and great side plots as well. Strong themes of faith, as well as trust in this high stakes read. 

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

A Ballet for the People by Lillian Joubert // Review

My Review: 

Ballet and forbidden love in the face of a contentious senate election. 

Max is running for re-election on community values and public service, not used to hob-nobbing with the rich stock that Mia Hamiliton and her politically aspiring family comes from. Can two people from opposite sides of the political aisle fight for their quickly blooming love against those bent on sabotaging them?

A sweet romance of forbidden love, and finding yourself. Mia has always loved danced, but has struggled to measure up to her high achieving brother. I loved how she found the strength to cut a different path than expected, and found something beautiful to pour her talents into. 

A clean romantic read, with tension, family drama, dance, with themes of standing up for what you believe in and yourself. 

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

Emma Jane's Guide to Matchmaking the Mayor by Drew Taylor // Review

My Review: 

A cute modern spin on a classic tale, with this charming Southern re-telling of Jane Austen's Emma. 

This modern rom-com does a great job of capturing the essence of the original story, while making it her own, with a well meaning and charming protagonist, flirty humor, and a good dose of faith. While the references to the classic are pretty on the nose, I think that the author did a great job of taking the inspiration and making it fresh. 

Emma is as much a flawed protagonist as she ever was, but still as lovable despite it all, with her own struggles and challenges to face. I loved how Knightley is always there for her when she needs him and isn't afraid to let her know when she's been shortsighted, but he loves her all the same. 

Overall, such a fun read with a fun political spin to it. An enjoyable rom-com great for fans of friends-to-more romance!

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

Cornered by Lynette Eason, Lynn H. Blackburn, Natalie Walters // Review

Lucie's Review: 

In the Dark by Lynette Eason

Steph Cross discovers cryptic notes in the wake of her friend's untimely death, leading her to think that there was more to her death than originally stated. Rookie Detective Tate Cooper is determined to prove himself on his first case, working alongside his partner and boss's sister. 

An engaging read with likable protagonists and a riveting plot, I liked the relationship building as they uncovered the secrets together. Good tension throughout, with solid themes of faith. 

Downfall by Lynn H. Blackburn 

A feuding family in a resort town. Cassie Quinn is a chef, and she takes a job at the resort despite her family's reservations about the bad blood between the families. When the resort's kitchen is destroyed it is clear that someone is after her. Her only option is to work with her ex, Dt Donovan Bledsoe. Can they get to the bottom of the targeted sabotage before it's too late?

A fast paced read, with escalating suspense as the danger increases. Great suspense, with a second chance romance, good teamwork and relationship building. Highly enjoyable! 

Perilous Obsession by Natalie Walters 

Teacher Lehela Young turns to her friend Briggs Turner when she finds that she is being stalked, endangering her students. Can they get to the bottom of things before it's too late? 

A well written read, with a sweet friend to lovers romance. A suspenseful read, with a plot that kept me guessing till the end. I liked the great relationship between the main characters, and solid faith. Highly recommend! 

 

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

Falling for a Humbug Cowboy by Karen Baney // Celebrate Lit

 

About the Book

Book: Falling for a Humbug Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 5)

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Contemporary Christian Cowboy Romance

Release date: November 5, 2024

Book: Falling for a Humbug Cowboy (Vargas Ranch Book 5)

Author: Karen Baney

Genre: Contemporary Christian Cowboy Romance

Release date: November 5, 2024

She’s the happiest person he’s ever met. His world has turned upside and he’s in no mood for Christmas. Will these coworkers find middle ground as they head into the holidays?

Reeling from a shocking family secret, Drake Vargas heads into the holiday season grumpier than he’s ever been. He can’t seem to get his footing and his new barista is way too much sunshine for him.

Candi Kaine loves Christmas! Nothing can stop her sunny disposition. As she starts a new job at Vargas Ranch, she’s determined to fix the grumpy, hipster cowboy who just happens to be her boss. Nothing will deter her from making sure he experiences a very Merry Christmas.

Will Drake find his joy again or has Candi Kaine finally met her match?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Lucie's Review: 

A holiday grumpy-sunshine romance, that brings us back to the Vargas Family Ranch, with Drake still reeling from the secrets of his past. 

Drake has a lot of reasons to be less than thrilled going into this holiday season, still coming to terms with the news of his family, while managing the food services and coffee shop on the ranch. Candi Kaine breezes into his life with her annoyingly infectious high spirits, always up for a challenge especially if it means bringing a smile to a humbug cowboy's face. Candi is a good compliment to Drake's hardened exterior, helping him to open up about what he has gone through. 

I loved the interaction between Candi and Drake, as the themes of faith and family. I loved how welcoming the family was towards Candi, and how this story brought everyone together for the holidays, making for a great conclusion to the series. 

Overall, a fantastic addition to a wonderful series! Definitely recommend!

About the Author

Karen Baney is passionate about writing stories full of flawed characters. She enjoys weaving together stories of second chances, redemption, and overcoming personal trials. As a transplant to Arizona, she loves researching the state’s history and finding ways to seamlessly incorporate real history and real settings into her novels. In addition to writing and speaking, Karen works as a Software Development Manager for a Christian ministry.

Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband, Jim, make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs, Bella and Daisy. Both Jim and Karen are active at Rock Point Church in Queen Creek, Arizona.

More from Karen

Inspiring My Christmas Mood by Karen Baney

In Falling for a Humbug Cowboy, I had a lot of fun incorporating classic holiday songs (and the occasional Christmas story) into scenes to add flavor and sometimes intensify the character’s feelings.

It was purely accidental at first. I love classic Christmas songs and during the holiday season my hubby and I listen to a lot of Holiday Traditions on Sirius XM.

So, when I described a scene where Candi helps Drake decorate the dining hall, I just wrote that she switched the overhead music to a Christmas station and belted out Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer. The next thing I know, I’m three song mentions in. So, I decided to make deliberate use of songs.

When I was struggling to get in the mood to write a Christmas novel in the dead of summer (108+ in July in Arizona!), I loaded up my phone with several playlists. One of the first songs was Feliz Navidad and I knew I had to find a way to use it. It would be the perfect song to show off Candi’s fun personality and draw Drake out of his humbug mood.

I hope you enjoy this Christmas playlist from the novel with a few sneak peaks of how I used the songs:

• Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer – Candi belts out the tune while working.
• White Christmas by Bing Crosby – Candi “crooned along with Bing Crosby, making a nice duet”.
• The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole – causes Drake to picture holding Candi close, swaying to the music.
• Holly Jolly Christmas by Burl Ives – playing while Drake helps Candi with a rush of customers.
• Feliz Navidad – Candi dances around Drake until she gets him to dance and sing along.
• I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm by Dean Martin – Candi notices the not-so-humbug cowboy walking away, ratcheting up her interest.
• Christmas in Your Eyes by Travis Shaw – playing during a special moment between Drake and Candi.
• It’s Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas by Michael Bublé – Candi’s lunch with a friend.
• Mele Kalikimaka – Driving to Flagstaff together to play in the snow.
• All I want for Christmas is You by Mariah Carey – sets the stage for Drake’s proposal on July 25^th (Christmas in July).

What’s your favorite Christmas song? By a specific artist or any artist? Please share in the comments, I’d love to know. 😊

Blog Stops

The Lofty Pages, December 11

lakesidelivingsite, December 12

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 13

A Reader’s Brain, December 14 (Author Interview)

Holly’s Book Corner, December 14

Texas Book-aholic, December 15

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 16

Back Porch Reads, December 17 (Author Interview)

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 18

Lighthouse Academy, December 19

Devoted To Hope, December 20

Simple Harvest Reads, December 21 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

For Him and My Family, December 22

Labor Not in Vain, December 23

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 24 (Author Interview)

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, December 24Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Karen is giving away the grand prize of a $50 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/00adcf54116

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

Texas Revenge Target by Jill Elizabeth Nelson // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Texas Ranger Brianna Macguire became the target of the cartel when she survived a shootout that very few walked away from. 

Now back at her family ranch she finds herself and her family the target of the crime bosses of the cartel, that's when the mysterious Cameron Wolfe steps into the picture. A man with a bounty on his head, deep in hiding with a shadowed past, who offers his help to Brianna. 

A fast paced suspense, with well written action scenes and a high octane plot. I loved the well developed characters, strong faith, and relationship building along the way. I loved the western setting and gripping storytelling. Well worth the read!

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

Hunted for the Holiday Deena Alexander // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Shae went into witness protection for six years, hiding from the crime family who wants her to pay for how she helped put the patriarch away. The only person she can rely on is former FBI Mason Payne, who is also the father of her daughter. 

A fast paced suspense, as Mason, Shae, and Gracie try to stay one step ahead of the the deadly gang bent on retribution. The story jumps right into the action, but also has some sweet relationship building moments. I liked how Mason instantly steps up and works with Shae to keep them safe and get to know little Gracie. 

An entertaining read with a good plot and great characters. Shae is a great mother, raising her daughter to trust in God and giving her courage. I liked the strong themes of faith, the suspense, and second change romance. A very enjoyable Christmas suspense!

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

A Guardian Till Christmas by Danielle Thorne // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Big city business woman Kylee Spokes gains custody of a pair of four-year-old twins after sudden death of her sister and her husband. Her plans to return to the city are delayed when she finds herself out of her depth with children, paramedic Evan Hollister isn't about to abandon his godchildren, so he offers to help share the responsibility for the kids as they find their new normal.

A heartwarming romance where big city meets small town, the children are adorable and are craving stability after their world fell apart. Evan is great with the kids, and has known them all their lives. I liked how he helps Kylee think of things in a new light, and encourages her to get in touch with her roots. 

Overall, a sweet heartwarming Christmas romance with great characters, faith and family in a small town. Great for fans of cozy Christmas movies!

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

The Winter Rose by Melanie Dickerson // Review

My Review: 

A compelling split time novel of faith and resilience in the face of war and heartbreak. 

 Addie Hoult comes to Tonquin Lake at a crossroads in life, looking for answers to help her beloved mentor, Charlie who is fighting for his life against a genetic blood disorder. Decades earlier the daughter of a well known actress fights to protect the lives of Jewish children from the terrors of WWII. 

Gripping and emotionally deep with a solid core of faith. Grace Tonquin is a resilient heroine facing unimaginable risks to save the lives of children from the Nazis. I admired her determination, faith, and her heart for helping others even when it was far from easy. 

Overall, this was a gripping and immersive read with complex characters but an anchoring thread of hope that ran throughout, root in faith in God. Engaging and thought provoking read, with excellent character development and a compelling plot. Highly recommend!

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