Counter Attack kept me turning the pages well into the night. Alexis Stone is a confident officer who puts her fear behind her as she pursues the one Counter Attack kept me turning the pages well into the night. Alexis Stone is a confident officer who puts her fear behind her as she pursues the one pursuing her. Nathen Landry is a kind-hearted but tough policeman who wants to protect Alexis. She's been gone from his life for several years and he's not about to let something happen to her now. As always, Bradley wrote a story that pulled me in right away and kept me reading. And an unexpected twist took me by surprise. I received a free copy with no expectations. Opinions are my own....more
I enjoyed reading After the Shadows by Amanda Cabot. Emily is a strong woman who has been through a terrible marriage and is now widowed. Craig is a kI enjoyed reading After the Shadows by Amanda Cabot. Emily is a strong woman who has been through a terrible marriage and is now widowed. Craig is a kind-hearted widower with a young son. He arrives in town the same day Emily returns home to tragedy. I love the way Cabot weaves a faith thread through her stories and how she uses her secondary characters to bring more depth. If you enjoy stories set in the days of the settlers, you'll want to read Cabot's books. I received a copy for free. Opinions are my own....more
The Words We Lost tells a story of friendship, love, and grief and how the three twined together. Ingrid had stepped away from the life she knew afterThe Words We Lost tells a story of friendship, love, and grief and how the three twined together. Ingrid had stepped away from the life she knew after grief and sorrow pushed her into a fog of confusion and despair. When she finally returns to the only place she knew as home, a whole plethora of emotions throw her into a search for a missing manuscript, along with a search into her heart. Joel’s love for Ingrid is steadfast but shadowed by the past. As the two look for their friend’s final piece to a wildly popular series, they discover something far more important than Cece’s last fiction manuscript. This is a thought-provoking story with a strong faith thread. I especially loved Ingrid’s unique back story and the setting at a beautiful hotel on Washington’s coast. And don’t miss the heart-rending story of Wendy, Cece’s mother. This is a book to be savored. If you enjoy excellent story with strong characters I recommend you read this book. I received a free copy with no expectations. Opinions are my own....more
Jackie Layton is one of my favorite cozy mystery writers. I’ve enjoyed all of the Low Country Dog Walker series, but I believe A Killer Unleashed is mJackie Layton is one of my favorite cozy mystery writers. I’ve enjoyed all of the Low Country Dog Walker series, but I believe A Killer Unleashed is my favorite one yet. Andi Grace and Marc are trying to plan their wedding, but a murder gets in the way. I was guessing right up to the end who dun it. Oh, and there was a dognapping and a possible hurricane. Andi Grace, with Marc’s help, gathers clues and works with the local police to discover the real killer. I love the setting for the books and the secondary characters who join in to solve the mystery. If you love cozy mysteries and dogs, you’ll want to read this whole entertaining series. I purchased a copy of the book. My opinions are my own....more
I’ve enjoyed all of the Gone to the Dogs cozy mysteries. The Bark of Zorro features Cassidy Carter, the vet office’s manager and Texas game warden, JuI’ve enjoyed all of the Gone to the Dogs cozy mysteries. The Bark of Zorro features Cassidy Carter, the vet office’s manager and Texas game warden, Justin Cameron. They are working together (well, sort of) to figure out why dogs in Brenham, Texas are running around with a white Z painted on them. Unfortunately, TV cameras follow the two around and make the mystery more complicated. With twists, turns, humor, and appearances of the vet staff and Brenham residents, The Bark of Zorro is an enjoyable and fun cozy. If you love dogs and light cozies, you’ll want to read this one. I received a free copy and all opinions are my own....more
This beautiful children’s book, Odder, written in free verse is simply delightful. From beginning to end, Odder is one of those books that feeds the sThis beautiful children’s book, Odder, written in free verse is simply delightful. From beginning to end, Odder is one of those books that feeds the soul with joy. As a fan of children’s literature, this is one of the best I’ve read in a while. It’s in a similar vein as another favorite of mine, Love That Dog. Plus, the cover is adorable!
P.S. Odder is not just for kids. Adults will love this story based on true events....more
I love the Hope Harbor series, and I’ve enjoyed every book. I do believe this one is my favorite. Ashley is a lovely character who is determined to hoI love the Hope Harbor series, and I’ve enjoyed every book. I do believe this one is my favorite. Ashley is a lovely character who is determined to honor her father and make her dream come true, despite her mother’s objections. Jon has suffered wounds from war and is having a hard time adapting, even as he runs his landscape business. And Rose is a lovely 80 something who hides her talents and needs a friend. This is a beautifully written book about people needing each other and overcoming personal obstacles to pursue love. Of course taco maker and artist, Charlie has a role, as do his two pigeon friends, and a few other Hope Harbor folks appear. If you enjoy a story written with elegance and grace, you’ll want to read Windswept Way....more
Tapestry of Grace is a sweet story about a widow and widower who are friends and are trying to help each other, I enjoy reading books set in the earlyTapestry of Grace is a sweet story about a widow and widower who are friends and are trying to help each other, I enjoy reading books set in the early American days, when things were a bit simpler, yet hard at the same time. Sawyer creates a great little town of quirky characters and two beautiful stories of hope. If you enjoy books along the Little House on the Prairie era, you'll want to read this book. I received a copy of from Netgalley. Opinions are my own....more
If you’re a fan of shows like Criminal Minds you’ll like this book. I’m not a fan of those types of shows, I prefer a little milder show like NCIS, buIf you’re a fan of shows like Criminal Minds you’ll like this book. I’m not a fan of those types of shows, I prefer a little milder show like NCIS, but I will say this story kept me reading. Grace is a tough lady determined to find a serial killer. Sam, whose dad is a serial killer is right on her heals trying to protect her. Eason’s characters have depth and insight as they chase down the evil man who is taking lives. She also layers in how such horrific events affect so many. If you enjoy thriller suspense, you’ll want to read book three of the Extreme Measures series. I received a free copy of the book with no expectations. The opinions here are mine....more
I enjoyed this sweet holiday story. Copeland takes her characters through a healing journey through the love of Jesus and the magic of Christmas. I'd I enjoyed this sweet holiday story. Copeland takes her characters through a healing journey through the love of Jesus and the magic of Christmas. I'd love to stay at the Kris Kringle Inn....more
I loved this sweet story of two older adults who are given a second chance, both with God and each other. Patti Shene Gonzalez's book reflects the truI loved this sweet story of two older adults who are given a second chance, both with God and each other. Patti Shene Gonzalez's book reflects the true meaning of Christmas. I read a KU copy. Opinions are my own....more
I enjoyed this quick read. McNees writes a romance filled with hope that’s perfect to set you in the holiday mood. Parker has social anxiety, somethinI enjoyed this quick read. McNees writes a romance filled with hope that’s perfect to set you in the holiday mood. Parker has social anxiety, something many of us deal with, while Lauren is a social butterfly, with her eyes on the wrong guys, until her friends dive in to help her out. McNees weaves the holiday spirit with faith and hope to create a delightful Christmas story. I purchased my copy. Opinions are my own....more
Jennifer Deibel’s stories are a delight to read. In The Maid of Ballymacool, Brianna works hard every day, but never pleases the head of the school. EJennifer Deibel’s stories are a delight to read. In The Maid of Ballymacool, Brianna works hard every day, but never pleases the head of the school. Even in the most difficult times, she keeps her faith and enjoys the respite of the nearby forest. Michael arrives at Ballymacool with the intent of helping his cousin, then leaving. Then he meets Brianna. Deibel weaves a story of deception, and anger with hope and joy. I love the pictures she paints with her words and the beautiful ending to a fairytale like story. If you haven’t read Jennifer Deibel’s books, I highly recommend them. I received a copy of this book for free from Netgalley. My opinions are my own....more
This is book 2 in the series, and I recommend reading book 1 first. With lots of mystery and twists, the suspense is intense with ups and downs. AnnieThis is book 2 in the series, and I recommend reading book 1 first. With lots of mystery and twists, the suspense is intense with ups and downs. Annie has been searching for her sister who was kidnapped as a child, but the person who claims to be her may not be. And Annie has her daughter to protect. Jon is trying to figure out his place, and this is all going on while Annie and the police are trying to solve a kidnapping. There is a lot going on in the story, but it all kept me reading. Coble delivers another fast-paced page turner. If you enjoy romantic suspense you’ll want to read, Dark of Night. I received a free copy of the book with no expectations. The opinions here are mine....more
Set in the 1620s, The Seasoning of Elizabella captures the early days of Jamestown, Virginia and the difficult time the settlers faced. Elizabella is Set in the 1620s, The Seasoning of Elizabella captures the early days of Jamestown, Virginia and the difficult time the settlers faced. Elizabella is content to run her sewing shop in London, but her sister is intent on travelling to Jamestown to find a husband. Elizabella wants to protect her sister, but after a tragic event she accidentally ends up on a ship sailing to America. Miles has lost so much and he wants nothing more than to protect his brother in Jamestown. As the settlers wrestle with the difficult life there, the brides arrive and Elizabella, much to her dismay, is with them. Kraft doesn’t sugar coat the way many of the settlers lived in those difficult times. I appreciate that Miles loves and respects God, as does Elizabella which adds a beautiful thread of hope. With a thorough understanding of the history which surrounded Jamestown, Kraft has written a story historical fiction readers will enjoy. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I read On Cue and enjoyed the story, so I wanted to check out this prequel. I love this story of these two strong women as they navigate the horrors oI read On Cue and enjoyed the story, so I wanted to check out this prequel. I love this story of these two strong women as they navigate the horrors of slavery in the south. Early and Missy grew up like sisters, but as adults they face trials that may break them apart. Boswell does a beautiful job showing the turmoil and dedication these two share through decisions they must make. One of my favorite characters is their aunt who takes them north to find freedom and the promise of a new life. Throughout the story, Ginny, from On Cue, reflects on the journal and other ephemera she finds as she writes her musical. If you enjoy stories set in the south, historical accounts of that time period, or simply a great story, you’ll want to read Free to Love. I purchased a copy from Amazon. Opinions are my own....more
This is an adorable book for young children that tells how much God loves them. The illustrations are so colorful and fun! Nelist has written lovely pThis is an adorable book for young children that tells how much God loves them. The illustrations are so colorful and fun! Nelist has written lovely poetry that will enchant children and remind them they are loved. I received a free copy and opinions are my own. ...more
Barking Up the Wrong Tree is a great ending to the three book series. Veterinarian Kristin wants to find her friends dog, Remington, who goes missing Barking Up the Wrong Tree is a great ending to the three book series. Veterinarian Kristin wants to find her friends dog, Remington, who goes missing after winning a Texas agility competition. She enlists her friends from the vet's office to sleuth with her. This is a fun story that also highlights the proper ways to care for dogs. Well written and funny, Thompson does a great job capturing the mystery and the characters, plus she throws in a little romance. I was given this book for free, Opinions are my own....more
Bischof has written a new type of series about a single woman who is discovering life on her own. I enjoyed the story, and I think this is a good addiBischof has written a new type of series about a single woman who is discovering life on her own. I enjoyed the story, and I think this is a good addition to contemporary fiction. I liked how Sadie grew through her disappointment and into her new attitude of determination and discovery.. Once you read the first book, I'm guessing you'll want to see where her story goes. I received a free copy from Netgalley. Opinions are my own....more
I loved this beautiful story! The characters took up residence in my heart as I cheered for them. The setting is so well written, that I felt like I wI loved this beautiful story! The characters took up residence in my heart as I cheered for them. The setting is so well written, that I felt like I was there. This is book two in the series. ...more
I've enjoyed Wright's series featuring Mabel. She's a lovable forty-something woman who is trying her best to stay out of trouble while stepping into I've enjoyed Wright's series featuring Mabel. She's a lovable forty-something woman who is trying her best to stay out of trouble while stepping into the middle of it. This time around, she's volunteered to help the folks who train canine-&-rescue search dogs. While she's hiding in the woods, the dogs find her and a dead body. Mabel's boyfriend, John, may be connected to the victim. What can any good girlfriend do, but try to help him out of hot water. Of course, best friend Lisa jumps in to try and help her best friend. Mabel's stories are filled with quirky characters and precious pets. If you enjoy cozies, I think you'll like Mabel Goes to the Dogs. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I enjoyed reading this well-written and thought-out story. Nora is a woman before her time, living in the early 1900s when arranged marriages kept famI enjoyed reading this well-written and thought-out story. Nora is a woman before her time, living in the early 1900s when arranged marriages kept families prosperous and women in the home. Instead of marriage, Nora has her heart set on training horses and running the family farm. Silas, a man who loved and lost his parents is out to find out what happened when his dad died. Nora’s Uncle Amos is determined to fight against them both. The story has mystery, romance, secrets, and an amazing horse. The Secrets of Emberwild will take you on an adventure into the early days of horse racing. I’m a fan of Heartland, so this book was a great read for me. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Irene Hannon has written another excellent suspense as she’s tied up her Tripple Threat series. In Body of Evidence, youngest sister, Grace, has come Irene Hannon has written another excellent suspense as she’s tied up her Tripple Threat series. In Body of Evidence, youngest sister, Grace, has come across the suspicious deaths of elderly people, and she’s determined to find out the truth. Sheriff Cox is a kind-hearted and loyal officer, new to the job. I love the sparks that fly between the two and the dynamic of Grace and her two sisters. Warning: Grace is a forensic pathologist and there are autopsies described, which are important to the story. As in any suspense, I’m trying to figure out who is behind the threats. Hannon writes so well I didn’t figure it out until the end. If you enjoy romantic suspense, you won’t want to miss this one or books one and two in the Tripple Threat series. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I enjoy cozy mysteries, and this series has been a treat. Trina Potter wants to help her niece get her rescue business up and running, but in the meanI enjoy cozy mysteries, and this series has been a treat. Trina Potter wants to help her niece get her rescue business up and running, but in the meantime, someone is sabotaging Second Chance Ranch before they even get set up. I like the idea of dog rescue and love the pups in this delightful mystery. There is a thread of romance, but the kennel and the mystery take the limelight. If you enjoy cozies, give Dog Days of Summer a read and make sure to read book 1, Off the Chain. Book 3, Barking Up the Wrong Tree will be available January, 2023. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I believe Melissa Koslin had good intentions with this story, but I didn’t really enjoy it. There were too many slow spots and too much repetition. LiI believe Melissa Koslin had good intentions with this story, but I didn’t really enjoy it. There were too many slow spots and too much repetition. Liliana is a strong character who had been through a terrible situation and Meric Toledan seemed an unlikely protector. I appreciate that Koslin is bringing a horrific crime to light and hopefully Liliana’s story can make a difference. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
The Blackout Bookclub is a great read. Set during WW2 on the coast of Maine, a unique group of folks find themselves thrown together by war and survivThe Blackout Bookclub is a great read. Set during WW2 on the coast of Maine, a unique group of folks find themselves thrown together by war and survival. Avis is an unlikely librarian, who through a desperate attempt to keep the library open, gathers together an eclectic group to discuss books and all matter of things. As I read the story, I enjoyed meeting the different characters and seeing how their lives twined together. If you’re a fan of WW2 stories, you’ll love this one. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I enjoyed reading book one of the Mysteries of Medicine Springs series. Mabel is a hoot. She’s older, awkward, and self-deprecating. The woman tries sI enjoyed reading book one of the Mysteries of Medicine Springs series. Mabel is a hoot. She’s older, awkward, and self-deprecating. The woman tries so hard to do the right thing, and sometimes that gets her into deep trouble. John is the perfect balance for her, but in her heart she’s not sure she can trust him. She’s not sure she can trust anyone. Through all the escapades and efforts, Mabel plows forward to find the truth. If you enjoy cozies sprinkled with humor and quirky characters, you’ll enjoy Mabel Gets the Ax. I read this copy from Kindle Unlimited....more
I look forward to Carlson’s Christmas novella every year. This one is a lovely story centering around a woman whose traditional Christmas’s have been I look forward to Carlson’s Christmas novella every year. This one is a lovely story centering around a woman whose traditional Christmas’s have been derailed, then she meets a sweet child who changes everything. Four-year-old Fiona spreads Christmas joy just by being her sweet, precocious self. As the quilt comes together, so do the lives of the most unexpected quilters. This story is about healing and transformation and Carlson does a beautiful job telling this wonderful story. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I enjoyed reading this collection of holiday themed stories. Set in the town of Mapleview, Michigan, three authors create stories from different generI enjoyed reading this collection of holiday themed stories. Set in the town of Mapleview, Michigan, three authors create stories from different generations of towns folk. Amanda Wen’s story, set in the early days of the town’s settlement, is a sweet tale of love and forgiveness. Janyre Tromp’s story, set during WW 2 involves intrigue and the most lovable male character, Gideon. Deborah Raney captures modern day Mapleview in her romance of two teachers. I like that the schoolhouse from Wen’s story appears in Raney’s. Each story is unique and thoroughly enjoyable. From historical fiction, to mystery, to contemporary these authors have delivered three engaging and wonderful stories. Add this to your Christmas to be read pile. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Hope’s story took my breath away. Set in a small town, we often think of the charm, the shops, the quirky characters, but something seldom revealed isHope’s story took my breath away. Set in a small town, we often think of the charm, the shops, the quirky characters, but something seldom revealed is the underside this author captured; the one where grudges are held and gossip is shared. Ronan’s family has caught the brunt of the rumors for years and paid the price. When Hope comes to town to search for the treasured books her mother left her, with plans to leave as quickly as she came, she discovers something she’s been missing for years, the possibility, if somewhat shaky, to put down roots. With Ronan’s lack of self-confidence and Hope’s fragile emotions, the two search with the help of friends for a treasure which may not exist and discover... well, you’ll need to read the book. The characters Rushmeyer created will stick with me for a long time. If you love stories with literary references, faith and hope, incredibly deep characters, and the prospect of love, you’ll want to read The Bookshop of Secrets. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more