"The Girl Who Lived" by Christopher Greyson

The Girl Who Lived by Christopher Greyson

Warning: spoiler alert!

Small towns. It’s great when you are in a bind and because everyone knows you they help out. However, when everyone knows your history, it’s not so great. That’s how “The Girl Who Lived” plays out. Even before Faith returns to her hometown, everyone knows. Everyone she runs into knows her past and exactly who she is. She is the girl who lived. The girl who survived a horrific crime when four others didn’t.

I wish I could say I was a fan of this book, but I just wasn’t. The premise was great and I was very interested after reading the synopsis. However, it mostly just annoyed me.

First, the resolution of the story had so many twists and turns, I felt like I was on a tilt-a-whirl that was out of control. I enjoy a novel with lots of twists and turns that all click into place at the end, but not just for the sake of confusing the reader. That is how this book felt to me.

Second, I find it hard to believe that Beverly lived believing that Faith and her father were a “mistake” her entire life and never felt it.  I would think that would have been hard for Beverly to hide and that Faith would have felt that and the book would have been full of examples of Beverly loving Kim, Faith’s sister, more and treating her better.

Third, I find it hard to believe that Beverly did not enact revenge against Hunter and Woods for killing her “precious” Kim too, which was never part of the plan. Kim was her baby with the man she truly loved.

Additionally, the spouse/parent is always the first suspect. Did nothing turn up during the initial investigation to point the finger at Beverly? It seems like Faith’s father was found guilty far too easily and that no one, including Kim, thought that two people might be involved in the initial murder. The police did not investigate enough to find out that Kim’s father did not have Fabry disease and could not be Kim’s father.

I did love Mrs. Henderson’s character. Was she crazy, physic, or communicating with her dead son? What the heck was going on with her? I liked how that part of the story played out.

Publication Date: November 4, 2017

Genre:  Thriller, suspense, mystery, crime, conspiracy

Cover:  OK

The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright

What do two murders committed over 100 years apart have in common? Kaine Prescott races to find out before she is the next victim.

After her husband Danny’s “accidental” death, Kaine believes she is being stalked and gaslighted. Determined to make a change and escape San Diego, she buys the local “fixer-upper” haunted house in Oakwood, Wisconsin after only seeing an online advertisement as Oakwood was the home of her great-great-grandmother, Ivy.

It seems, however, that the stalker has followed her to Oakwood and the house on Foster Hill. Strange things begin happening and Kaine feels like she is losing her sanity. Unlike the San Diego police force, the Oakwood police don’t believe that she is merely suffering from PTSD and imagining the odd things going on in her life.

Kaine makes quick friends and soon discovers that the house on Foster Hill was the site of a murder that involved Ivy and a missing infant many years ago. She feels a kinship with Ivy as they both understand that grief is “a high currency to pay for loving someone.”

Kaine learns everything she can about Ivy and learns that Ivy was an oddity in Oakwood. Ivy assisted her father during postmortem examinations and even kept a death journal so that everyone she knew who died would never be forgotten.

“The House on Foster Hill” is an excellent mystery.  Throughout the book, the characters learn that no matter the circumstances, there is always hope. Heaven is the future and “there is no despair in eternity, in God’s presence, in His perfection. There is only hope. He is my hope.”  

 

Publication Date: November 21, 2017

Genre:  Thriller, suspense, mystery, Christian fiction

Cover:  Perfect!

Source:  I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 4 stars

"The Good Daughter" by Karin Slaughter

Two bowls of ice cream… I can’t get that out of my mind after reading this book. However, there are lots of other significant “twos”.  Two daughters (Charlotte and Samantha Quinn), two heart attacks, two houses, two pictures, and two very horrific, devastating, life-altering events; connected even though they are years apart.

The reader learns about the first event through each of the girls’ eyes and how it changed their lives and shaped them. I don’t want to offer any more details so that I don’t give anything away.

Start this book on a Friday evening when you can read until you finish. It’s that amazing… with an ending you will never see coming! And when you realize the significance of the two bowls of ice cream… wow! Karin Slaughter wove this story through 28 years in the girls’ lives, never omitting a significant detail or tidbit that enhanced the story and she tied it all up with a satisfying, bloody, ripped ribbon at the end.

Karin Slaughter has moved into the top 10 on my favorite author’s list. Before “The Good Daughter” I had only read three of her books which were decent, but “The Good Daughter” blows all three away. Thought this book was so great that I changed my vote in GoodReads Choice, Best Mystery & Thriller category (from another of my top 10 authors).

Release Publication Date: August 8, 2017

Genre:  Thriller, suspense, mystery,

Cover:  Perfect!

Source: I won this book through Goodreads First-Reads. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

#slaughtersquad #thegooddaughter

"Where We Belong" by Lynn Austin

“God knows when the hour of our end will be” and “rich or poor, we each have a God-given calling to fulfill” are the primary themes of this novel. Rebecca and Flora Hawes are sisters who truly take this to heart and spend their lives finding and fulfilling God’s calling. They don’t let Victorian standards get in their way. Thanks to their Father, they don’t spend their days attending parties and looking for husbands but travel the Earth in search of and accomplishing their calling.

This book is five large sections with one from each of the four main character’s point of view. Rebecca’s stories sandwich Flora, Soren and Kate’s and tell how their lives intertwine.

The book begins in the Sinai Desert in 1890 and spans 30 years. The chapters jump to a different time in the sister’s lives before returning to 1890. With some books, this can be confusing but not in this case. As with all Lynn Austin novels, the timelines were well thought out and executed.

This book was very well researched. I enjoyed learning about Chicago, the Sinai Dessert and the Monastery of St. Catherine. The author’s descriptions made me feel as if I was there and a part of the story.

Be sure to read the Author’s Note at the end as this book was based on two sisters who really existed!

Release Publication Date: October 3, 2017

Genre:  Fiction, Historical, Christian

Cover:  Beautiful and absolutely perfect!

Source: I received this book from the publisher, BethanyHouse, in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 5 stars

"A Christmas Return" by Anne Perry

A cannonball in a Christmas pudding? That is just how “A Christmas Return” by Anne Perry begins. Mariah Ellison receives this odd, anonymous gift a few days before Christmas. However, a card arrives with the last post of the day. It is from Peter Wesley; the grandson of a friend with whom she has not seen for some time… Rowena Wesley. A friend whose husband, Cullen, died under mysterious circumstances twenty years ago after he suddenly refused to represent a man accused of the rape and murder of a fourteen year old girl.

Mariah agrees to assist Peter as “it was something, at her age, to be needed-not to be taken in as a matter of kindness. An overdose of charity could kill something inside you.” The ensuing story is the tale of Mariah and Peter attempting to track down the murderer.

This was a quick, easy read and was not gruesome. It had some great moments, although none better than cutting into a Christmas pudding and finding a cannonball. For example, “… over a lunch of Welsh rarebit. There was always something extraordinarily comforting about melted cheese on toast.”

Very enjoyable, especially with the Christmas tie in and Anne Perry reminds us that “because of Christmas, love never dies’” This was my first Anne Perry book, but it won’t be the last.

Release Publication Date: November 7, 2017

Genre:  Fiction, Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Crime, Women Sleuths, British

Cover: Perfect

Source: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 4 stars

"Close to Home" by Robert Dugoni

“No parent should have to bury their child” detective Tracy Crosswhite thinks as she murmers “I’m sorry” to D’Andre Miller’s Mother Shaniqua. Twelve year old D’Andere was just murdered by a hit and run driver on his way home from a rec center basketball game; a hit and run driver who did not even slow down or hit the brakes.

“Close to Home” is Book 5 in Robert Dugoni’s Tracy Crosswhite series. Tracy is a Seattle homicide detective and if you have read any of the other books in the series, you are familiar with Tracy’s history; the kidnapping and murder of her sister Sarah.

After tracking down the driver of the car, who is in the Navy, they realize that the case is not as cut and dried as it first appeared, especially when evidence disappears.

Dugoni does a great job of describing the process the detectives go through to solve the case. He also details the steps that the Navy goes through when prosecuting one of their own, as in this case, and how that process is similar to or differs from cases that are outside of military jurisdiction.

Exciting, thrilling book that had me guessing to the end. Several great twists and turns toward the end. Great standalone book, but recommend starting with the first one so you know the recurring characters and events that have happened to the characters in the past to shape them.

Release Publication Date: September 5, 2017

Genre:  Fiction, Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Crime,  Police Procedural, Women Sleuths

Cover: Perfect

Source: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

"Enigma" by Catherine Coulter

“Enigma" is the 21^st installment of Catherine Coulter’s FBI thriller series featuring agents Savich and Sherlock. There are actually two separate enigmas or puzzling situations in this book.

The first enigma, is also a person; specifically, Enigma 2 or Arthur Childers. He breaks into a pregnant Kara Moody’s home, ties her up and tries to convince her to run away with him and that they have to get away from “them” before it’s too late. Savich happens to save Kara from this crazy stranger, but not before Arthur is left in a coma and Kara is in labor.

At the hospital, test run on Arthur yield strange, startling results. Kara’s labor goes smoothly, but soon after Alex is born, he is kidnapped. As answers are found, even more questions surface. Just who is Arthur Childers?

Second, Savich and Sherlock race to find Liam Hennessey AKA “Manta Ray”. Liam, a very charismatic thug, recently took a plea bargain for a bank robbery during which his partner died after killing a bank teller. The missing loot from the heist has not been found and Liam has communicated with no one other than his attorney during his time in jail. While Liam is being transferred to federal prison, his convoy is attacked and Liam escapes. They race to track Liam down before he recovers the stolen loot from the bank robbery.

“Enigma” is well written, an excellent story and has a super ending… up to par with Catherine Coulter’s other books in the series. Great stand alone book, but recommend starting with the first one so you know the recurring characters and events in the past.

Release Publication Date: September  12, 2017

Genre:  Fiction, Mystery, Thriller & Suspense , Crime,  Kidnapping

Cover: Perfect

Source: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 5 stars

"Cherished Mercy" by Tracie Peterson

 

 

 

I love Tracie Peterson and have read many of her novels; I was looking forward to reading “Cherished Mercy”, which is the third and final book in her Heart of the Frontier series. She tackles lots of tough issues including the treatment of natives by the government, murder, rape, racism and adoption.

The book begins with Mercy Flanagan receiving a letter from a family friend requesting that she come to her aid as she is having a difficult pregnancy and could use her assistance as a healer, housekeeper, and baby sitter. Mercy struggles with the decision. She wants to help her friend, but does not want to leave her family. To travel to her friend, Eletta, would mean traveling to an area in Oregon where the native people are clashing with the white people who are invading their land. Some natives are peaceful, but many are not. Not only is this frightening, but Mercy also has a history with Native Americans. She survived the Whitman Massacre and was taken captive along with her sisters as a child. They were treated horribly and abused, but all survived.  However, the vivid memories haunt Mercy as does her sister’s child… a child that was adopted by Eletta at birth.

Mercy chooses to assist her friend, Eletta. Along the way she meets many natives and Adam, Eletta’s Brother-In-Law. The local tribe seems friendly enough, but rumors or massacres are running rampant. Will there be peace in the Rogue River Valley? If so, will Mercy survive it?

“Cherished Mercy” was a great read and an excellent reminder of how important prayer is in our daily lives.  It also reminds us that “faith isn’t faith unless it’s tested” and  God always has a plan! The book is a reminder of how important peace is and that we must fight for it.

I have not read the first two books in the series, but that in no way lessened my enjoyment. The author gave just enough tidbits about the first two so that everything made sense. She also researched the well and gave excellent descriptions of life in that era and the Oregon area.

Release Publication Date: September 5, 2017

Genre:  Christian Fiction, Romance, Western, Frontier, Historical

Cover: Perfect

Source: I received this book for free from the publisher, BethanyHouse, in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 4.5 stars

 

 

"Persons Unknown" by Susie Steiner

"Persons Unknown" by Susie Steiner is the second book in the DS Manon series.  This police procedural focuses more on the relationships between the characters and less on police activities.

This book begins with Manon moving her family from London to Cambridgeshire so that her adopted son, who happens to be black, can live without being persecuted by the local police at every turn. Her sister, Ellie and nephew Solly move with her. Manon is now solving cold cases rather than working as a homicide detective.

The transition does not go as smoothly as planned, as Fly, Manon’s son, is not adjusting well to life away from familiar territory and friends. Oh, and surprise, Manon is expecting. I, along with Fly, wonder why this sudden urge to procreate so soon after adopting Fly.

Soon, this is the least of her worries. The victim of a local murder turns out to be none other than Ellie’s ex-husband and Solly’s father. To make matters worse, Fly is the prime suspect. The ensuing story is Manon’s attempt to prove Fly’s innocence and find the true killer.

Several nice twists and a good ending. Solid four stars. I have not read the first book in the series, “Missing, Presumed” but that in no way affected my enjoyment of this one. Several key elements were reiterated so I did not feel like I had been left behind. I look forward to finding out what happens to Manon, Fly, Ellie, Solly and the other characters in future books.

Release Publication Date: July4, 2017

Genre:  Mystery, thriller, suspense, crime fiction, noir, detectives

Cover: OK

Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 4 stars

"The Return" by Suzanne Woods Fisher

What does true love look like? We tend to think of it as Prince Charming coming to sweep us off our feet or true love’s kiss awaking us from “The Sleeping Death.”  True love or agape love is sacrificial love. What does that look like?

In “The Return” (Amish Beginnings #3) by Suzanne Woods Fisher tackles true love and several controversial topics: jealousy, Indian raids, kidnapping, racism, hatred, bigotry and vengeance.
Several children are kidnapped when an Indian raiding party attacks homesteads in Pennsylvania. We discover how they were treated, how those left behind felt and how some involved became bitter and angry and turned to unlawful methods as an outlet for that anger. We learn that “Vengeance is a dangerous master to feed. Its appetite has no end.”

But we also learn that people can change and about kindness, forgiveness and love… true love. A character in the book risks his life to right a wrong not once, but twice. He defends and helps those who cannot help themselves at great risk. Throughout the book the characters grow and learn that no matter what, they belong to the Holy One even when they belong to no one or no group on Earth.

This is the third book in the series. Not having read the first two in no way hindered my enjoyment/understanding of this book. There were a couple of references to prior events, but those were explained. The author also included a cast of characters and short note explaining the time line at the beginning of the book.

Solid 4.5 stars for this excellent reminder that “God doesn’t answer our prayers because we wish Him to. And he doesn’t dislike the people we dislike either. That would amount to making God in our own image.”

Release Publication Date:  August 1, 2017

Genre:  Christian fiction, Amish, Mennonite, Indian, romance

Cover: Perfect!

Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 4.5 stars

“The Dream Keeper's Daughter” by Emily Colin

What would you do if your best friend/boyfriend walked away from you and disappeared? How would you react? What if you were a senior in college and pregnant? Would you fall apart or hitch up your pants, trudge on and make a life for yourself and your child? What if your mother had disappeared in the same way seven years earlier?

This is exactly what happens in “The Dream Keeper's Daughter” by Emily Colin. It is the tale of two young lovers and how the disappearance of Max, Isabel’s boyfriend, affected her life and the life of her child.

I liked the way the author switched from Max and Isabel’s point of view for different chapters. I especially enjoyed reading Max’s chapters after he followed his six-times-over grandfather through the woods and back to Barbados in 1816 just before a slave rebellion.

I was a bit disappointed by the two sex scenes and some of the language toward the end of the book. A bit gratuitous. The bickering back and forth between Isabel and Ryan also got on my nerves. I wanted to scream at them, “just walk away and let each other go!”

The author does tackle some tricky subjects: slavery, kidnapping, etc. I would have loved to read more about Finn and her abilities. It was a good book, but not great.

Release Publication Date:  July 25, 2017
Genre:  Time travel, romance, suspense
Cover: Meh.  I am assuming the young girl on the cover is Finn. In the book, she has black hair whereas the girl on the cover is blonde.
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!
Rating: 3.5 stars

“Everything We Left Behind” by Kerry Lonsdale

 “Everything We Left Behind” by Kerry Lonsdale is Carlos/James’ story. It picks up right where the first book of the series “Everything We Keep” left off with Carlos coming out of his fugue state. He remembers nothing of the last six and a half years… not his marriage, wife or children. It is as if the last six and a half years never happened.

I did read the first book, but if you didn’t, don’t fret. I think you would be OK. You would miss tiny details (and a great book), but the author fills you in on the large picture of what happened in the first one. It was well written and was interesting till the end (read it in less than 24 hours). I figured this book was going to end one of two ways… wrong again. Lots of twists and turns and a very satisfying ending.

There were a couple of heartbreaking scenes with Carlos/James and his son. He does not remember being a father or his sons. He was quite smart and loved his sons enough as Carlos to attempt to assist himself if he ever did emerge from his fugue state. He kept extensive journals and spoke to his older son so he would know what to do if Carlos, at some point, did not know him.

Release/Publication Date:  July 4, 2017
Genre:  Romance, suspense
Cover: Great.
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!
Rating: 4 stars

"Everything We Keep" by Kerry Lonsdale

“On our wedding day, my fiancé, James, arrived at the church in a casket.” What an opening… I was hooked!

Instead of walking down the aisle in her wedding gown, Aimee is sitting in the same church, looking at the same flowers attending her fiancé’s funeral. There would be no wedding or children. They would not open a new art gallery or new restaurant together; all their hopes and dreams as a couple would be buried that afternoon.

Just two months prior, Aimee’s fiancé James disappeared while on a business trip in Mexico. He simply went missing during a fishing trip… simply falling off the boat when other’s backs were turned.

Outside the church, Aimee is approached by a physic who tells her “I have information about James’ accident”...  “James is alive.” Aimee ignores her, but she keeps turning up in expected places dropping clues along the way.

Sometimes she hears his voice, “Let’s get out of here” and she feels like James is still with her. She was not allowed to view the body as it had been in the water for weeks. Is she losing it or was James’ death not a mere accident. Is he even dead?

“Everything We Keep” by Kerry Lonsdale is Aimee’s search for the answer to James’ death. Well written and intriguing it kept me interested till the end. A few bits that were not hard to figure out, but a great read nonetheless. Great ending and an excellent debut novel.

The sequel, “Everything We Left Behind”, comes out tomorrow, July 4, 2017! Can’t wait to see how the story ends!

Release/Publication Date:  August 1, 2016

Genre:  Romance, suspense

Cover: Great.

Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 4 stars

"A Twist in Time (Kendra Donovan #2)” by Julie McElwain

Kendra Donovan is smack dab in the middle of a massive dilemma. Should she continue to try to return home to 2015 or remain in 1815. Both choices have benefits and disadvantages.

In 2015, she is a member of the FBI and is quite the accomplished, independent woman. Oh, and of course in 2015 she can vote and interview witnesses and/or suspects without a man or chaperone present! Should she remain in 1815, she is romantically involved with the handsome, wealthy Marquis of Sutcliffe, Alec. However, she is considered quite the oddity due to her peculiar behavior. And she must adhere to all the rules of the Ton.

I do love a good time travel romance and “A Twist in Time (Kendra Donovan #2)” by Julie McElwain is just that! Lady Dover has been savagely murdered and Alec finds himself the primary suspect. It is up to Kendra to clear his name.

I enjoyed the details of London life in 1815. However, they were not so thorough as to bore the reader. Excellent mystery with lots of twists. Occassionally, it was a bit hard to keep up with the titles… lots of Dukes, Marquis, Countesses, etc., but not so much that I did not enjoy the book.

I have not read the first novel in the series, “A Murder in Time” but plan to soon! This novel stands on its own and not having read the first did not seem to hinder my enjoyment of the second. A few tidbits of info were interspersed throughout so that did not happen.

Release/Publication Date:  May 2, 2017

Genre:  Thriller, suspense, crime, murder, romance, mystery, time travel

Cover: Perfect.

Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 4 stars

"The Breakdown" by B. A. Paris

If you can’t trust yourself, who can you trust? B. A. Paris explores this quandary in her latest thriller, “The Breakdown”.

Cass’s life is just about perfect… handsome and loving husband, lots of friends, new job and a great house. The only scar on her idyllic life is the recent death of her mother, from dementia, which left her wealthy. Unbeknownst to Cass, her mother tucked away lots of money and lived a very frugal life. Oh, and her best friend and husband only tolerate each other.

Que a stormy night and a shortcut through a dark, twisting, wooded road. Cass takes said shortcut against her husband’s warnings. As she passes a lay-by, she sees a car. She does not really want to stop; it’s dark, raining and just darn right scary outside. As she pulls by the car, she sees that it is a woman. So, she pulls in front of the car. She waits for the motorist to put on her flashers, honk, get out or otherwise signal that she needs assistance. After some time, Cass goes on. She gets home, goes to bed and forgets about the incident until news of a murder on the very road she traveled last night jolts her out of her happy, perfect life.

Cass instantly feels guilty. Could she have helped? Could she have saved her? Would she have been murdered too? Then her mind jumps to the next logical question… did the murderer see her? She instantly becomes anxious. She begins forgetting things. She thinks someone is watching her and starts receiving calls from someone who does not speak. Then, she starts hallucinating. Is she going crazy or does she have dementia like her mother? Why is this happening to her? She just wants to have a baby and return to her normal life.

Does Cass find out what is going on? Does she find out who the murderer is before the murderer can drive her crazy? You must read the book to find out. It is a great read… I devoured in less than 24 hours. I really like this author and have not read her debut novel, “Behind Closed Doors”, but plan to soon.

Release/Publication Date:  July 18, 2017

Genre:  Thriller, suspense, crime, murder

Cover: Perfect.

Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read this great book!

Rating: 4 stars

"The Pony Express Romance Collection" by Various

It’s amazing to think that something as ingrained in American history such as the Pony Express was only in operation for 19 months! “The Pony Express Romance Collection: Historic Express Mail Route Delivers Nine Inspiring Romances” is full of interesting facts. For example, they looked for riders who were quite young: between 12 and 18. The smaller and lighter, the better. They also preferred orphans and women were not even considered. You will find these and other interesting facts in the book.

As mentioned in the title, the book contains nine short stories. They all take place within a short time frame and each romance centers around a Pony Express station/stop and tackles issues like bigotry, racism, slavery, prostitution, abuse. The primary characters are also concerned with new telegraph line being constructed as it signals the end of the Pony Express and their jobs.

The common theme throughout these stories, other than the Pony Express and romance, is a character believes that God either does not love them/care about them or does not listen to their prayers. Throughout the story, the character finds him or herself praying/seeking God and realizing His love for him or her. Great reminders that “When god doesn’t answer the way we want Him to, it’s because He knows what’s best for us better than we do.”
I enjoyed “The Gambler’s Daughter” and it’s reminder that “God never leads us to sin”. Set on Christmas Eve in 1860, it is the story of a young lady who sets out to find her father and instead finds romance.

I found that some of the stories seemed to have a similar storyline and appreciated the last couple as they were a bit different. Women were not prized for their ability to cook and clean, but as a horse whisperer and stable hand. However, this is still a good book and would be great for any age as it is clean and has good lessons.

Release/Publication Date:  March 15, 2017

Genre:  Christian Fiction, Western, Romance

Cover: Perfect.

Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!

Rating: 4 stars

“The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley” by Hannah Tinti

Cats have 9 lives, but Samuel Hawley has been blessed with 12! “The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley” by Hannah Tinti is the story of Samuel Hawley, his daughter Loo, and the people who interact with them throughout their lives. It is the tale of a lawless father and his attempts to keep those he loves safe. Sometimes he is successful… sometimes he is not. 

Hawley and Loo move around a lot to random destinations. They only stay somewhere six months to a year.  On Loo’s eleventh birthday, Samuel decides to take Loo someplace where she “won’t have to play alone”. This time, though, they return to Olympus, Massachusetts; her mother’s hometown. Loo’s grandmother still lives there.

We soon find out that Hawley has trouble reigning in his temper. We get a feel for why they may have spent Loo’s life running. 

Samuel always had one gun on him and several more within arm’s length. He taught Loo how to shoot at twelve so it seems normal for her to be around guns. They are her friends. She is comfortable with them; she is not so comfortable with her anger. Mixed with her teenage hormones, she often reacts badly confronted by bullies.

I love the way the author switches from the present and Loo’s perspective to the past. Chapters alternate with “Bullet Number One” and so on to tell Hawley’s past, why he is running, and why he loves and protects his daughter so desperately!

As the book progresses, so does Loo’s life. For the most part, she is a loner. However, she finds love. Her attempts to maintain that relationship are frantic and pitiful. She is as strong a lover as her father. He sets up a sort of altar (in the bathroom) to her dead mother everywhere they call home. The explanation of this towards the end of the book is absolutely heartbreaking. It will rip open a wound in everyone who has lost someone they desperately love with the hope that they will look up and see their loved one turn the corner.

Super read; satisfying ending!

Release/Publication Date:  March 28, 2017

Genre:  Literary Fiction, Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Coming of Age

Cover: OK.

Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you! 

Rating: 4.5 stars (rounding to 5)

"The Red Hunter" by Lisa Unger

Thanks to Lisa Unger and Simon & Schuster for the ARC in return for an honest review.

Justice or revenge; what’s the difference? Lisa Unger explores this question and the implications of both in her latest thriller, “The Red Hunter”.  She tells the reader that justice is a concept, one agreed upon by a civilized society. It seeks balance. Revenge is wild and raw, it’s a balancing of the scales of the universe.  Revenge seeks chaos. Thus, giving birth to “The Red Hunter”.
We are also told that “when seeking revenge, dig two graves. One for yourself“.

The two main characters, Claudia and Zoey, are both survivors of a horrific crime where each was left for dead. They have lots of other things in common as well. They were both at the wrong place at the wrong time. They both suffer frequently from “les penseées qui viennent dans le nuit” or “the thoughts that come in the night”. Both attempt to move on with their lives by learning to cope and protect themselves and their families. However while learning and practicing self-protection, they take different paths. Those paths cross when Claudia returns, with her daughter Raven, to an old, abandoned house that her father once owned. She plans to start over here by renovating the house and blogging about it. This house just happens to be the site of the crime involving Zoey.

While sharing so many things, Claudia and Zoey do have one glaring difference. Whereas Claudia is very open about the crime and even blogs about it, Zoey does not want anyone to know what she has been through, who she is or to even be noticed.

Raven and Zoey also share several things: they both live in the aftermath of what happened to their parents, struggle to fit in, have questions about their father (who he was/what was he hiding) and they have a supporting friend who happens to be a boy.  They learn that where they have come from does not have to define them. I loved the quote, “Why do you think where you came from has anything to do with where you belong? I certainly don’t believe that. I can’t. I have to believe that we create our lives.” Wow! Where we have been does not matter… it’s where we are going. Such a powerful statement… and true!

I adore Lisa Unger and her writing style. She writes engaging books and does not leave any strings “unpulled”. She always answers all the questions asked during the book. I gave this one five stars (4.5 rounded up). It was a great story with lots of surprises and interesting supporting characters. The reader learns about justice, revenge, friendship, corruption, betrayal, and letting go (as a parent and as one who has been wronged).  We also learn a lot about relationships and love; true, parental and brotherly.  “Some relationships are like pythons: they wrap around you, slowly squeezing until you can’t breathe” Boy, is that ever true!

I like to think that in the end, some revenge is indeed justified!

"Before We Were Yours" by Lisa Wingate

I reserve 5 full stars for books that move me and stay with me long after I have finished them. “Before We Were Yours” by Lisa Wingate was one of those books!

The book details the lives of seven siblings. It travels through their births to their elderly years seamlessly telling the story of how they were stolen from their parents and placed in the Tennessee Children’s Home Society where unspeakable acts were perpetrated against children, the birth parents and adoptive parents.

The book begins with Avery Stafford who has moved back home to assist her mother and father, a Senator, with his public life after a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Her grandmother, Judy, has just been moved to the memory care unit of a premium care assisted living facility as she has been diagnosed with dementia.  The Senator and his staff are trying to juggle that choice, his illness and a scandal involving corporate-owned facilities. Avery attends a meet-and-greet at a facility with her father and meets May, an older lady who mistakes her for both her sister Fern and then her mother, Queenie. While Avery is distracted, May slips an heirloom bracelet from her wrist. When the worker’s retrieve it, May claims it is hers. When Avery returns to retrieve it, she sees an old photo in May’s room. Her curiosity is piqued when she notices the resemblance of the lady in the photo to her grandmother, Judy. When she visits her grandmother to ask her, she tells her to burn all her appointment books/journals at her home.

The resulting story is Avery’s hunt for the truth. “Secrets have a way of coming out. Secrets also make you vulnerable to your enemies, political or otherwise.” Avery must tread carefully; everything her family does or has done is scrutinized. We are reminded that “secrets ain’t a healthy thang, no matter how old they is. Sometimes the oldest secrets is the worst of all”. Is that ever the truth!
Throughout, she begins to question the path she has chosen for her own life. May tells her “a woman’s past need not predict her future. She can dance to new music if she chooses. Her OWN music. To hear the tune, she must only stop talking. To herself, I mean. We’re always trying to persuade ourselves of things.” Such great advice. We often choose someone else’s path for our life. We are reminded to “dance within the music of today, or we will always be out of step”.
It also delves into dementia, assisted living and caring for our loved ones as they age. “This music of old age… it isn’t made for dancing. It’s so… lonely. You’re a burden to everyone.” Wow… go visit your grandmother!

I am the type of reader that loves stores that are based in truth. This one was. The Tennessee Children’s Home Society and Georgia Tann, did exist and committed terrible atrocities. Do a bit of research; you will be appalled.

This story touched me in so many ways. As a child, my sister and I were often shuffled between family members after the death of our mother at ages 2 and 5. I think that we share an even stronger bond because of that. This book describes that bond so beautifully. “The love of sisters needs no words. It does not depend on memories, or mementos, or proof.  It runs as deep as a heartbeat. It is as ever present as a pulse.” Another character said, “The heart still know. It still know who it loves”. Indeed it does!

Read this book. It will make you cry. You will be glad you did.

Release Date: June 6, 2017
Genre: Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction
Cover: Perfect
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!
Rating: 5 stars

"One For Sorrow" by Mary Downing Hahn

In the mood for a good ghost story… the kind told around a blazing camp fire? A ghost story that will keep you looking in corners and jumping at every noise for a couple of days? “One for Sorrow” is just that! This book is set in the midst of the influenza epidemic in 1918 and is written for ages 10 – 12/grades 5 – 7.

Annie moves to a new school and is immediately befriended by an outcast, Elsie. Things take a turn quickly when Annie realizes there is a reason that Elsie does not have friends and the other girls taunt her. Annie soon dumps Elsie and joins the “cool” girls who taunt Elsie. Elsie contracts influenza and subsequently dies as a result of the other girls’ actions. Elsie does not “move on” and decides that Annie owes it to her to be her best friend forever!

I had a couple of issues with this book, but 10-12 year olds won’t even think about them. First, Annie had been to Elsie’s house before. She would have known it was her house and not been surprised when approaching her coffin to see her in her home. Second, Elsie alluded to the fact the their family was poor, but they owned the town butcher shop. Perhaps times were tough because of the war…  And, why, when Annie is being taunted by a ghost, would she be reading “The Woman in White”?
Remember, this is a children’s book ages 10-12. Should not be super scary. For that age group, it is a perfect read.

Release/Publication Date:  July 18, 2017
Genre: Children’s Books (Age Level: 10 - 12  Grade Level: 5 - 7 )
Cover: Perfect!
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!
Rating: 4 stars

"The Last Chance Matinee" by Mariah Stewart

Have you ever dreamed of a “secret” family? Perhaps of someone showing up on your doorstep one day claiming to be your long lost sibling or auntie? That is exactly what happens to Cara, Des and Allie in “The Last Chance Matinee (The Hudson Sisters Series Book 1)”. Their father, Fritz, dies after a short bout with cancer. Later, their Uncle Pete divulges the specifics of Fritz’s will telling Cara that she has two sisters that she knows nothing about and unbeknownst to Des and Allie they have a sister they know nothing about. The details of Fritz’ will are a shock to them all.

I am surprised that none of the three sisters found out about the others throught out their lives… that Fritz never let anything slip or that none of them found a receipt, note, or reference to the other(s). That would be a hard secret to keep for years.

My only issue with the book was that Cara had never divulged her mother’s final words, “Tell him I’ve always known, and it’s all right…” to her father. That would have been one of the first things I told my father if I had been in a similar situation and I would want to know what in the heck she was talking about.

I can’t wait to read the next installment(s) of this series. I look forward to finding out what happens with the theatre and what ensues as the sisters get to know each other and the other inhabitants of the town. Will some or all of them make this their new home?

I especially loved the small town in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains where most of the story takes place. It is an idyllic town where folks really care about other and take care of their own. They love each other and watch out for each other.

Release/Publication Date:  June 2, 2017
Genre:  Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Romance
Cover: Perfect!
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!
Rating: 4

"the idea of you" by Amanda Prowse

From the time we are little girls playing with dolls, most of us long to be a Mother. Lucy is no different. She is a woman who finds love a bit later in life than most women. She meets her knight in shining armor at the christening of her friend/co-worker’s baby at the age of 39. After they marry, they find that trying to start a family is not as easy as they had hoped. Her new husband, Jonah, has a teenage daughter that comes to stay for the summer amidst their attempts at a successful pregnancy. This puts further strain on their marriage. This novel is the story of their love, marriage, parenting and attempts to have a baby.

As a Mother who suffered a miscarriage at 12 weeks, I empathized with and felt sorry for Lucy.  I, like Lucy, blamed myself and wondered what I had done to “cause” this to happen. As with Lucy, “I did everything it said in my book”. I did not know how to grieve openly. I did not know how to be happy for those around me who bore children around this time. I did not know how to deal with those people who carelessly told me things like “you can have fun trying again”, “you were ONLY 12 weeks”, “it will be OK… you can try again” or “it was God’s will”. Sometimes, I wanted to smack them.  You can only fully realize her pain if you, too, have laid on the couch with your feet up in the hope that you can stop what you know is happening or checking for a bit of blood every time you go to the bathroom.

I found the author’s use of “letters” to the baby interesting and a great way to convey parts of the story. Everything wraps up fairly nicely, though not perfectly for Lucy in the end.

Release/Publication Date:  March 21, 2017
Genre:  Literary fiction, romance, psychological
Cover: Perfect, but only after you finish the novel.
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!
Rating: 3.5 stars (rounding to 4)

"Watch Me Disappear" by Janelle Brown

I devoured this psychological thriller/suspense novel in less than 24 hours. Once I started reading, I could not stop!

“Watch Me Disappear” by Janelle Brown is the story of Billie, a seemingly perfect wife and mother who was able to “spin magic... to be such a terrific parent when she’d had such bad ones”. Billie disappears and is presumed dead during a solo hike in Desolation Wilderness. Making the story even sadder is that the family was just about as close to perfect as you could get. Johnathan, Billie’s husband, is a senior editor at a flourishing magazine/web site and Olive, her daughter, is a student at a prestigious private school. Everyone seems to love Billie and want to be around her. She is beautiful and a great wife and mother. The author had me loving her;  she reads Tana French… how could I not! However, as the story progresses, we realize all is not as it seems.

Most of the story takes place a few weeks shy of the year anniversary of Billie’s death. It makes us question how well we know those around us.

The author writes a perfect story that leaves you guessing what truly happens until the last few paragraphs. She answers every question that is raised throughout the book. Often, with suspense/thrillers, an author throws out bait to make several characters seem guilty or to make the reader question different characters and their motives. Often, some of those little nagging tidbits are never addressed. The author addressed each and every one!

The book did drag a tiny bit in the first few chapters, but the reader needed to get a feel for the characters, their backgrounds and personalities. I felt like a time or two the author got out the dictionary and added some big words (I had to look up a few like ennui, ineffably, nascent, fugging, carapace).  Neither of these is a deal breaker… just pointing out.

I enjoyed this book so much that after finishing this review, I plan to purchase and read her previous novels.

Release/Publication Date:  July 11, 2017
Genre:  Psychological, thriller, suspense
Cover: Perfect. I liked how the text disappears into the water. At first, I did not care for the cover as the mountains play such a large part in this book. However, upon finishing the novel, I realize that the ocean is a perfect depiction.
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!
Rating: 5 stars

“Love’s Compass” by Carla Gade

If you enjoy historical fiction, westerns or Christian fiction, “Love’s Compass” is an ideal book. The author writes of love, faith, God, racism and bigotry.

Eliana Van Horn is not your typical female; she is daring, accomplished and takes up for others. She assists her father in his photography studio and then on an expedition during which they travel through Colorado and New Mexico. Since no single female would be allowed to do so, she disguises herself as a man and poses as her father’s son. Along the way, she meets Yiska Wilcox who is a half breed who joins them on their expedition as a guide.

The author vividly describes the area through Yiska’s writings and makes you feel as if you are there. The author also discusses God, prayer and his love for us simply and beautifully. “it’s not the work we do that gets His attention. It’s a humble heart that seeks Him…He hears us because of His love for us, nothing more.”

Giving “Love’s Compass” four stars. It is a lovely romance with a couple of surprises toward the end. Great clean read for just about any age. Perfect travel/beach/car read.

As a bonus, you will also receive “Pride’s Fall” by Darlene Franklin. It is a historical romance, as well.

Release/Publication Date: April 1, 2017 (previously published as “The Shadow Catcher's Daughter”)
Genre:  Historical Romance, Western, Christian Fiction
Cover: Perfect
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!
Rating: 4 stars

“For Whom the Bread Rolls” by Sarah Fox

“For Whom the Bread Rolls” is the second installment of the Pancake House Mystery series by Sarah Fox.

Marley McKinney is enjoying life running her late uncle’s pancake house, The Flip Side. However, her plans to run a successful business are thwarted by Ida Winkler, the town grouch who has been defacing the restaurant and making prank phone calls. When Marley goes to her house to confront her; she discovers her body. Of course, she herself is a suspect.

Marley and lots of fun supporting characters, including hunky boyfriend Brett make this a fun, enjoyable read.

I have not read the first book in this series, but it made no difference. All the tidbits that you needed to know from the first book were explained in this one, making it a great standalone read. Perfect for the beach or car ride. Neither gruesome nor filled with sex scenes. A perfect “cozy mystery”.

My only critique is that I did get a bit tired of the descriptions of Marley going to the beach to swim or walk. Enough already.

Thanks to this book, I learned what a “cozy” mystery was! I have been calling them “Murder She Wrote” books as I didn’t know any better. Now I do! Cozies are typically set in small towns and feature amateur sleuths who investigate local murders which take place off stage. The murderers are not generally psychopaths or serial killers and are members of the community where the murder occurs. You won't be afraid of the dark while reading one of these books.

Release/Publication Date: March 14, 2017
Genre:  Cozy Mystery
Cover: Perfect
Source: I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!
Rating: 4 stars

"See What I Have Done" by Sarah Schmidt

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Let me start by saying that there are very few books that I absolutely cannot finish… even if it pretty much stinks, I still have to know what happens in the end. That being said, I can add this one to that list. I just couldn’t make myself. I tried… really. I did, however, skip to the final chapter so I kind of finished… not really, but kind of.

I was intrigued by the cover and quite excited to read the book after reading the synopsis. I love historical fiction especially that which is centered on fact as this book is. I just could not get past the author’s writing style. I could not focus on the story (it jumped around) and struggled to really follow it. I am giving it two stars. The inclusion of the time line at the end was a plus.

"Secrets of Southern Girls" by Haley Harrigan

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

As a Southern girl, I wish I could say that I liked this book, but I just cannot. I loved the cover from the moment I saw it. It was so beautiful with the shades of purple and the two girls on the front that reminded me of my sister and me. I was also intrigued by the change in the color of the font. I wanted to find out just what secrets these Southern girls had.

I do think this story has potential; perhaps it’s just not quite ready for publication yet. Give it a good rewrite and it could be a decent story. I did like how the author told the past through Reba’s diary which held the key to figuring out the secrets of everyone (not just the girls).
Frist, the book seemed to drag. I thought I would never get to the end. Also, I really disliked Jules from the beginning. She picks up men for one night stands. Her only intention is to use them. When in High School, she was a party girl and drank quite heavily. She would drag her best friend to bars even though they are both under age even though she knows her friend does not want to go. She did not seem to appreciate her Aunt who raised her and was mean to her odd cousin Toby. After moving away, she pushed away the perfect man and did not even want her child when it was born.  And maybe she didn’t kill Reba in the end, but she didn’t get help (and neither did Toby).

Moving on to Reba. She has everyone convinced that she is this perfect, angelic teenager. However, she hops into bed pretty quickly with August and then Toby even though both she and Jules dislike him, know he is a druggie and think he is weird. Then she lies to her family, best friend and boyfriend while continuing to sleep with both boys.

I also found it hard to believe that this good girl turned bad wrote down all of this in a diary that she carried around openly at school where anyone could have grabbed it and read it. When I was a teenager, I would never have been stupid enough to write these things down. If I did, I would have had that thing written in code or under lock and key.

Supposedly, family friend Nell has everyone’s best interests at heart. However, she has kept this diary that contains the answers, for years. She claims to “take care” of Toby now, but he is clearly tormented by Reba’s memory. This comes out in his artwork.

Everyone in this book is just so darn miserable.  None of the characters can move on (except Jules’ Aunt Molly). It just left me feeling sad, especially for Jules' daughter, Beck. In the end, I gave “Secrets of Southern Girls” three stars. If half stars were possible, I would have given it 2 ½. It did have a bit of a twist at the end and has potential with a rewrite, otherwise I would have given it two. In the end, I think August and Jules deserved each other.

“The Hideaway” by Lauren Denton

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

We tend to think of our parents and grandparents as always being the way we know them after we come into their lives. We forget that they had lives, often quite different ones, before we were a part of them.

“The Hideaway” by Lauren Denton is the story of Sara who returns to Sweet Bay, Alabama after her strange grandmother, Mags, dies and leaves Sara her run down bed and breakfast that has become “a senior citizen commune with a revolving door”.  Mags last request is that Sara return, use her talents and skills to renovate the house and property to its fullest potential” and live there while the renovations are taking place.

After returning to The Hideaway to fulfill her grandmother’s last wishes, she stumbles upon a box filled with curious items that belonged to Mags. These items point to a very different person than Sara believed her grandmother to be. Her first inkling that perhaps Mags was not quite who she thought she was occurred at the funeral where a photo of her is displayed. In it, Mags is in her early twenties and smiling at the person taking the photo in a way that clearly showed how much she loved the person taking the photo. Sara also realizes how much she resembles Mags… much more than either of her parents who died tragically when she was twelve.

“The Hideaway” switches from the present to 1960 where we learn what the items in the box are and how they made Mags into the courageous, strong woman that she became. During the course of the book, Sara questions what she thought of her grandmother and what she believes true happiness is and where it can be found.

I gave “The Hideaway” five stars. It is a beautiful story of love, kindness and becoming the person you were meant to be. Oh, and I loved the cover; it was perfect.

“One Perfect Lie” by Lisa Scottoline

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Wow! What a ride. “One Perfect Lie” by Lisa Scottoline is a thriller/suspense novel and it is certainly in the correct category.  I could not put it down.

I have read several of the author’s novels, so I was ready to start reading; therefore, I did not read the synopsis beforehand and did not know the storyline.

This book is so expertly written that I had no clue what was really happening. From the reader’s perspective, it seems Chris is involved in something truly sinister. I enjoyed trying to guess what he was up to so much that I almost wished I did not know his identity and the plan to blow up something so early in the book.

“One Perfect Lie”… let’s ponder that a moment. What is the perfect lie? Is it Chris and his undercover life? Is it Paul and his affair/medical fraud? Is it Evan and his sordid affair with his teacher or his plot to blow up something? Is it Mindy and the lies she told herself about her son/family? So many lies in this book… it was great! To quote the cover, “the most perfect lie is the one you tell yourself.” However, we learn that no lie is perfect, even one told for a good/valid reason as the truth always comes out in the end.

After reading the section of the book where Mindy FINALLY finds out what her husband has been hiding from her it truly made me think about my relationship with my husband. Do I really know him as well as I think I do? Is he really at work when he says he is working late? (No worries to my friends who may read this… it’s hard to fake the sounds of the machine room and far too many people to rat him out!) But, it did give me reason to pause. Then I started wondering about my friends (sorry, peeps). What are they up to behind closed doors? What are their spouses and children up to in the dead of night? Do I really know anyone?

Great story line and ending… everything is wrapped up very neatly. Lots of twists and turns that I truly did not see coming. Solid 5 stars. As with her other best sellers, this is a “don’t miss” novel.

“The Missing Ones (Detective Lottie Parker #1) by Patricia Gibney

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

“The Missing Ones (Detective Lottie Parker #1) by Patricia Gibney is a thriller/mystery/police procedural that had me hooked from the first few words!  After the first opening sentences, “The hole they dug was not deep. A white flour bag encased the little body. Three small faces watched from the window, eyes black with terror.” I was hooked. I could not put it down. I had to find out what had happened, who witnessed it and why they were being killed off!

I did have a couple of issues with the book. First, I wanted to smack Lottie at times. Her children were obviously in need of lots of mothering after losing their father. Not only does she ignore their demands for time with her and for food/dinner, but she has alienated her mother who could be a great help. She even throws a home cooked meal from her mother in the garbage! In her defense, she is a single mother, overworked, addicted to pills, a recovering alcoholic, and going through her own issues after the death of her husband.

Second, when Boyd took Lottie’s call at the gym where a known suspect was listening… really? Anyone could see that one coming!

4.5 stars from me, but as you can’t do halves on any of the review sites, I rounded up. This was a very solid first novel! Good story line with lots of twists and turns.

On the cover, I liked the black and white with the splashes of red text and coat. I assume that the building in the background is St. Angela’s. Not sure what else it could be. However, it should be much larger. Lottie’s counting of the windows played a large part in the ending. That structure is not even close to what it should be.

4.5 stars from me, but as you can’t do halves on any of the review sites, I rounded up. This was a very solid first novel! Good story line with lots of twists and turns. Plan to read the next installment in the series. Be sure to read the acknowledgments and Reader Letter at the end of the book. You will learn why the author writes about losing a husband so poignantly.

“My Heart Belongs in the Superstition Mountains: Carmela’s Quandary” by Susan Page Davis

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

“My Heart Belongs in the Superstition Mountains: Carmela’s Quandary” by Susan Page Davis is a selection in the My Heart Belongs series which is a series of Christian romance novels set in different cities/areas in the US by different authors.

The book begins with an unwilling 14-year-old Carmela being forced by her uncle to “perform” at various venues by telling her story of being kidnapped and held hostage by Indians in the American Southwest. After her “performance” she runs crying from the saloon and is befriended by a young boy, Will, whos brother is a deputy marshall.  Will attempts to get his brother, Freeland, to assist Carmela. However, Freeland is quite busy with a prisoner and cannot assist until Carmela and her uncle have left town.

Fast forward five years. Freeland is riding with a prisoner on a coach that just happens to be carrying Carmela and her uncle who is still forcing her to tell the untrue story of her parents’ murder and following life with the Indians by telling her that she still owes him money that her father borrowed and that he has paid for her “upkeep”.  Her uncle even repeatedly tattoos her face so that she will appear credible.

While traveling, they find the next stage coach station has been burned and are subsequently attacked by renegades. The story continues with how they escape and run into Indians and outlaws along the way.

The author tackles several biblical truths: confession, forgiveness, being judgmental and true love.
Gave this one four stars. It is a good solid read, nice ending with a funny twist. Very clean… you won’t be embarrassed if your Mom or child looks over your shoulder.

“The Message in a Bottle Romance Collection: Hope Reaches Across the Centuries Through One Single Bottle, Inspiring Five Romances”

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

“The Message in a Bottle Romance Collection: Hope Reaches Across the Centuries Through One Single Bottle, Inspiring Five Romances” begins in Ireland in 834 AD where a monk is fighting to hide a bronze bottle from invading Vikings.  What is special about this bottle? It is filled with scripture and has a message in Latin engraved around the neck, “spero” which means hope. The bottle shows up throughout all five stories reminding the characters at their darkest hours to always have hope.

First, an Irish princess encounters a Viking warrior bent on revenge and teaches him to love your enemies! The details of Viking warriors and their ways of life were intriguing!

The second story, “A Song in the Night” is set in Scotland. One of the main characters was a bagpipe player. I would love to see that one made into a movie! Super scenery, music and characters. I could hear the bagpipes playing as I read!

New York in 1798 is the setting for “The Forgotten Hope” by Maureen Lang is the story of a young lady who longs to continue to work beside her  father as a doctor rather than become the doting wife that society deems she should be.  The story follows her as she assists during a yellow fever outbreak remind us to always rely on God and to not distance yourself from others in an attempt to not be hurt by life’s tribulations.

“A River Between Us” by Jocelyn Green is set in 1864 Georgia, during the Civil War. It is a sweet reminder to love your enemy! If you enjoy historical romances, check out her “Heroines behind the Civil War” series.

“The Swelling Sea” by Joanne Bischoff  is set in 1890 California at the lovely Hotel Del Coronado and reminds us to never give up.

The epilogue is also by Joanne Bischoff and ties all the stories up nicely. Very happy with the ending. Love that the prologue and epilogue are both mini stories themselves!

If you enjoy uplifting, romantic short stories, I highly recommend this book. All five stories were well written and engaging. They all remind the reader that no matter how dark or troubling your life is, there is always hope in God and His word!

"Simply Clean" by Becky Rapinchuk

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Do you want to clean less, yet have a cleaner home? Are you overwhelmed by trying to keep your home clean? “Simply Clean” by Becky Rapinchuk is a simple, easy to follow guide for getting your house organized and clean with as little time as possible: 10-15 minutes at a time. She also discusses the importance of prioritizing simple tasks and setting “honest” goals. She sprinkles “Quick Tips” or “tips to make life easier” and “Cleaning Extensions”  or “steps to implement a system in your home that will keep it cleaner for longer” throughout the book, as helpers.

She explains why you need a cleaning routine, how to implement, how to deep clean and how to keep it clean afterwards.

The author gives to tips to clean just about anything in your house. There is even a section on making your own cleaning products.  I tried the daily shower spray and absolutely love it! So much cheaper than purchasing, much better for the environment and it can be customized to your favorite scent. I also purchased a set of dryer balls as she recommended in lieu of a fabric softener.  Not sure about those yet, and I don’t recommend with darks items… they left a bit of white lint on all the items. Also, they are a bit noisy (like sneakers in the dryer), so I don’t recommend if your dryer is near bedrooms and you dry clothes when anyone is trying to sleep.

She also includes lots of checklists. Some examples are daily and weekly cleaning tasks,  7-day kick-start, 28-day simply clean challenge, daily and weekly tasks, Spring cleaning, kitchen speed cleaning, stain removal, monthly rotating tasks and many more.

Have similar books been written? Yes, but Ms. Rapinchuk writes in an easy-to-follow manner and has lots of great tips.  If you are a new homemaker, have never read a book of this type or need a refresher, absolutely get this one!

"If I'm Found" by Terri Blackstock

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

"If I’m Found" by Terri Blackstock is the second Christian Fiction thriller in a series (If I Run).  I love Terri Blackstock’s books because they depict the struggles and sin of real life. 

“If I’m Found” picks up immediately where the first book ends… with Casey fleeing from authorities after helping Laura Daly and her child to escape. The book follows their attempts to get evidence to exonerate Casey from Brent’s murder (the thing that started her running in the first book).  Casey is very resourceful and it is interesting read how she evades those searching for her.

Casey can’t turn off her desire to help others. Once again, she is almost caught and comes close to being murdered because of her need. At times, you want to yell at her to just stop and do what she needs to do to survive.

If you or someone you love suffers from PTSD, parts of this book may be hard to read. However, Ms. Blackstock writes of the disorder and ways to help those suffering. Hunting Casey and then assisting her gives Brent a purpose.

This book is Christian Fiction and the author discusses how to be saved and feel God speaking to you. She talks about prayers and how “none of those prayers go unheard. They might not be answered like you hope or think they should be.” “You might ask for a car, and God gives you a bicycle.” She also explains what it means to be “washed in the blood.” These passages are beautifully written.

I have read the first book in this series, too and can’t wait to read the next one to find out how Casey and Dylan are going to get enough evidence to finally put Keegan, Rollins and their buddies away! Notice the book covers when they are side by side as they make a cool larger picture. Truly enjoyed the note from the author. Read it and practice “intentional gratitude”!

"If I Run" by Terri Blackstock

I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

"If I Run" by Terri Blackstock is the first in a series (If I Run).  I have read several of the author’s books and enjoyed them all, so I was eager to read this one. She did not disappoint with this Christian Fiction thriller. If you enjoy Christian Fiction as I do, but get tired of sweet, sappy, “everything always works out perfectly” books, give Terri Blackstock a try! She portrays real life in her books; therefore life is not perfect for her characters, Christian or otherwise. People actually die in her novels… even nice characters!

“If I Run” tells the story of Casey who decides to run after stumbling upon her best friend’s (Brent) body rather than call the police. She does not call the police because she does not trust them. Enter Dylan, an old childhood friend, who is hired by Brent’s parents to find her. After searching the crime scene, Casey’s apartment, the vicious stab wound descriptions and doing a bit of research to learn more about Casey, Dylan begins to believe that perhaps Casey did not commit this crime. Still, he is determined to find Casey and get to the bottom of his best friend’s murder. Casey expertly evades Dylan throughout the book, but it is very believable.

Yes, they are both Dylan’s best friend, but do not know each other. This is explained by Dylan’s service in the Army and deployment to Afghanistan. 

The author expertly weaves Bible truths throughout her story. She discusses being able to depend upon God throughout life’s trials and tribulations: “Jesus never promised to erase his believers’ burdens, but he did vow to help carry them.” Loved the character of Miss. Lucy, her beliefs and background; super supporting character. She tells Casey that “The Lord sometimes uses sorrow in our lives to deepen us” and when Casey asks “why do we have to be deep?” She answers, “Because what good are we if we’re shallow? He can use us when we have some depth. He had sorrows, so why shouldn’t we?” Such lovely faith and devotion.

A great read that left me searching for the next book in the series (If I’m Found) which comes out on March 21, 2017. Notice the book covers when they are side by side as they make a cool larger picture. Be sure to read the note from the author at the end of the book!