Book Review: Hearts Entwined

From The Back:

Hearts EntwinedFour Historical Romance Novellas of Love (With a Twist of Humor)

The ways of love can be complex. Sometimes a relationship full of unexpected twists and unlikely turns leads to a bond that's strong and secure. Join Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears for novellas that follow the winding path of romance in stories that celebrate a love that lasts forever.

The Love Knot- Karen WitemeyerWhen Claire Nevin's troubled younger sibling sends her an unexpected package by rail, the gift and the man who delivers it--an unexpected face from the past--threaten to upend Claire's life forever. Fighting to hold on to all she has built, will she lose what matters most?

My reflections:

Oh, how I wish this were longer. Karen Witemeyer is one of my all-time favourite authors and to have my taste buds wet and not get the full meal was so, so hard on my literary addiction! I'm satisfied only with the knowledge that she will write more books. Once again I will be steeped in her abilities to tie together a string of words so captivating that I will stay up late until the finish.

In this story, the characters are realistically penned along with their many flaws and abilities. I think my favourite part of the book had to have been when the main character Clair gets to the train to pick up a certain parcel that has her whole life upended. I thought she took this shock much better than I would have, seamlessly adapting and rearranging priorities to make it all work out in the end. Throw into the mix past love interest, Pieter Van Duren showing up with the "package!" 

Overall a sweet and tender story filled with human qualities that make you want to sigh and keep reading.

The Tangled Ties That Bind- Mary ConnealyConnor Kincaid returns home determined to win the hand of the woman he was too young for when he left. But Maggie is training to be a doctor in a distant town, while Connor's about to settle on a ranch. Will either be willing to give up their dream? Or will they both have to give up the love of a lifetime?

My Reflections:

Mary Connealy keeps us reading with her "Tangles Ties that Bind." 

I so enjoyed catching up with the Kincaid/ Borden families. Conner Kincaid is home again, but this time he is a man on a mission, and no one will stop him now. Conner will even sacrifice his expectations and dreams to chase after Maggie.Trouble is she seems to have become more headstrong and determined than he remembers her to be. No matter Conner is ready to follow her where ever, even to the big city. Also to take any job to be with her. 

Maggie wants to become a doctor, she has set her mind to it, and no one will stop her now that she finally has a direction. Can these two tie the knot and pursue their dreams? God always finds a way, but it is often not our way!

Bound and Determined- Regina Jennings

As punishment for his recklessness, Private Bradley Willis is sent on an errand to help a retired cavalry officer move a herd across Indian Territory. No one told him the herd would be camels instead of cattle, nor that the officer's headstrong daughter, Ambrosia Herald, would seem to be trying to undermine the whole enterprise. He's definitely been saddled with more than he's bargained for.

My Reflections:

Camels? Wow, I must say I didn't expect that! 

Private Bradley Willis and Ambrosia Herald must work closely to escort these zany animals across the bone-dry Indian territory! This story has its quirks, and right out funny moments, mostly with the camels. Jam-packed with historical detail this story aims to please, who wouldn't love a romance combined with fascinating historical detail and headstrong characters!

Tied and True- Melissa Jagears

Wealthy Marianne Lister is in love with business assistant Calvin Hochstetler, but he can't see past the difference in their social status. When Marianne takes a job to prove that she is prepared for a life of hard work alongside the man of her dreams, will it be enough to convince Calvin to risk it all for love?

My Reflections:

This final novella centres on a series I am very familiar with, the Teaville Moral Society. Marianne Lister's one determined lady, her devotion to her cause is admirable. Despite the looming threat of being disinherited, she runs headlong into her cause, pursuing her love Calvin Hochstetler, no matter the cost. Is she ready to throw her status away? Will Calvin get the hint? A heartwarming story you won't want to miss!

This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Book Review: Troubled Waters

From the Back

Billionaire Ian Shaw can have everything he wants--except a happy ending. Or at least that's what it feels like with his fortune recently liquidated, his niece, Esme, still missing, and the woman he loves refusing to speak to him. In fact, he doubts she would date him even if they were stranded on a deserted island.

Despite her love for Ian, Sierra Rose knows he has no room in his life for her as long as the mystery of his missing niece goes unsolved. The only problem is, Sierra has solved it, but a promise to Esme to keep her whereabouts secret has made it impossible to be around Ian.

When the PEAK chopper is damaged and Sierra lacks the funds to repair it, Ian offers a fundraising junket for large donors on his yacht in the Caribbean. But the three-day excursion turns into a nightmare when a rogue wave cripples the yacht and sends the passengers overboard. Shaken up and soaked to the bone, Ian finally has a chance to test his theory when he and Sierra do indeed find themselves washed up on a strange, empty shore.

It will take guts and gumption for the PEAK team to rescue the duo. But it will take a miracle to rescue Ian and Sierra's relationship.

My Reflections:
Book four of Susan May Warren's Montana Rescue series is certainly a roller coaster of a read!
Having read each and every chronical of this series I feel heavily invested in its storyline and characters. Each novel has its own plot line, but the characters and events are entirely interwoven, so reading this book or any others including the novellas alone would be quite confusing to the reader. As such I don't recommend this as a stand-alone series.

Getting the opportunity to dive back into Ian Shaw and Sierra Rose's lives was refreshing and slightly irritating all at the same time. I was so eager to finally read the conclusion to this long-awaited on again off again romance.These two characters need to learn how to effectively communicate! Goodness at points in this novel I wanted to shout come on people, let's have a little talk! When they finally have that opportunity they still hold back risking much, granted the timing is pretty disastrous. 

I think as I get older, I have less patience for overdone angst and drama. This tale is filled with both which slightly got under my skin. I loved the overall storyline though, the action, the suspense and the faith base, it was a good wrap up to a long-awaited drama. Epic misadventures keep this story going strong. Overall not a bad way to end. If you are an adrenaline junkie, who loves a book with a breathtaking backdrop, this may just be the book for you!

This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Susan May Warren

Susan May Warren is the ECPA and CBA bestselling author of over fifty novels, including Wild Montana Skies, with more than one million books sold. Winner of a RITA Award and multiple Christy and Carol Awards, as well as the HOLT and numerous Readers'...

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Book Review: A Song Unheard

From the Back:

If Betraying Her Heart Means Saving Countless Lives, Will She Find the Courage?
Willa Forsythe is both a violin prodigy and top-notch thief, which makes her the perfect choice for a critical task at the outset of World War I--to secure a crucial cypher key from a famous violinist currently in Wales.

Lukas De Wilde has enjoyed the life of fame he's won--until now, when being recognized nearly gets him killed. Everyone wants the key to his father's work as a cryptologist. And Lukas fears that his mother and sister, who have vanished in the wake of the German invasion of Belgium, will pay the price. The only distraction he finds from his worry is in meeting the intriguing and talented Willa Forsythe.

But danger presses in from every side, and Willa knows what Lukas doesn't--that she must betray him and find that key, or her own family could pay the same price his surely has.

My Reflections:
This is White's second book in the series Shadows over England, and  I must say it is another stellar read!
While the beginning is a wee bit slow to mature, you soon find yourself drawn into the complex storyline and tummy tumbling suspense.

The characters are the sustenance of this story, depth and contrast make this a very fascinating tale. Willa Forsythe is used to taking what she needs. She has had to do what it takes to survive this long. Trusting people is just not something she has learned to do. People fail you, they are not to be taken at face value, they are to be taken advantage of just like they do to her.

Lukas De Wilde is used to a lifestyle of absolute comforts, but when he becomes wounded his life gets turned upside down. He is entirely self-assured and knows he can teach Willa a few things to better her self while he recovers.
In the midst of unrest, war, lies and hurt these two must come to an understanding of what life really means to them.The transformation is stunning, a symphony to your heart.

If you are a lover of music, be prepared to have this book capture you within its pages. The depth of history and dedication put into this book really brings the story to life. I so appreciated the time White put into researching the era and subject matter in this novel. Well done!

Roseanna M. White

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award-nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she's homeschooling her two kids, designing book covers, editing, and pretending her house will clean itself....

Continue reading about Roseanna M. White

Book Review: Jesus Calling

From the Back:

More than 20 million people have been touched by Jesus Calling®. Experience Sarah’s words in a new way, focused on the encouragement only Jesus provides. The Jesus Calling topical devotionals—releasing simultaneously—each feature 50 readings from Jesus Calling with relevant Scripture verses on the topics of comfort, peace, and encouragement.

Even the tiniest hill can feel like a mountain when you’re drained or discouraged. But that’s when your precious Savior reaches out His hand with compassion and draws you near. Jesus Calling 50 Devotions for Encouragement is written as if Jesus Himself is speaking hope and encouragement directly to your heart.

Readers around the world already love how Sarah’s words connect with them on a daily basis. Now the new Jesus Calling topical devotionals offer a way to focus even more deeply on the major felt needs in your life . . . and in the lives of your friends, family, church, school, and co-workers.

With a beautiful, vibrant cover and stunning four-color photography, this topical devotional is a natural addition to the Sarah Young brand—and the perfect way to pour into those you love.

My Reflections:
Sarah Young's newest devotional series "Jesus Calling 50 Devotions for Encouragement" is just what you may need to read today, be uplifted! 
This book is written as if Jesus is speaking directly to you, making readers feel engaged and loved.
It has taken me some time to get used to reading my beloved scripture this way. Honestly, I was not sure how I felt about it. However, I love the way Sarah has pulled uplifting and powerful scripture out to really speak to you in this personal fashion. 

The devotional itself though short in nature is perfect for a quick supplementary Bible study in addition to your regular Bible readings. It is beautifully executed with colourful pictures and well laid out Devotions. I so enjoyed the bold script and shiny, colourful pages, it really was a delight to the senses and soul. I also appreciated that the Bible references were listed at the bottom of the page so you could go and read the actual context for the devotion. 
All in all, this was such a treat to review, very uplifting and well done. I would highly recommend this for a gift, bible study supplement or just to have on hand for those days when you need a little encouragement! I can't wait to purchase the other two topical editions on Peace and another on comfort.

Book Review: Judah's Wife

From The Back:

To Be Silent Would Be to Deny Their God, To Defy Would Bring the Wrath of the King.Seeking quiet and safety after a hard childhood, Leah marries Judah, a strong and gentle man, and for the first time in her life Leah believes she'll have peace. But the very nation Judah was named for has been conquered by a cruel king, who decrees that all Jews are to conform to Syrian laws or risk death for following the laws of Moses.

Judah's father resists the decree, igniting a war that will cost him his life. But before dying, he commands Judah to pick up his sword and continue the fight--or bear responsibility for the obliteration of Israel. Leah, who wants nothing but peace, struggles with her husband's decision--what kind of God would destroy the peace she has sought for so long?

The miraculous story of the courageous Maccabees is told through the eyes of Judah's wife, who learns that love requires courage . . . and sacrifice.

My Reflections:

Angela Hunt pens yet another spellbinding narrative in her new "Silent Years" series. As most of my readers know I am a huge fan of anything Angela Hunt, her writing always enlightens me to realities, I had not previously pondered. Judah's Wife is just another example of Hunt's distinguishable skills. 

This book is written half a century before Christ's birth in the period known as the silent years. I have not read the Maccabees, and this novel cultivated a desire to learn more about this time and delve a little deeper. So very thought-provoking!
I love when a book can spur you on to research a particular topic of interest!

I found the storyline to be emotionally engaging and filled with scenes of tragedy and triumph alike. Ultimately it tells of the strength of a woman who dares to stand up for what she believes is right and just, even if that may mean she gives up everything for her cause.

Hunt has done quite an extensive amount of research in this novel and it is apparent in her writing, the character development and the well laid out plot weave quite the binding that wraps itself around your heart, A story not soon forgotten. 
My only regret was the ending, where is my happily ever after?

If you are looking for a new biblical fiction type novel this may just be your next purchase; you won't regret it! 

This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

About the Author: 

Christy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who expect the unexpected in novels. With nearly five million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 140 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to non-fiction books, to novels.

Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards–one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.

Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.

Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.

Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006.

Also in 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree. She completed her doctorate in biblical studies in 2008 and her Th.D. in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.  She is also an avid photographer, using her photos to help find homes for animals at local rescues.

Book Review: COLDWATER

From the Back:

The vigilantes behind him are nothing compared to the enemy within.
Having forfeited his youth to the state prison system, Michael moved back to the still vacant house of his parents in a town with one stoplight. A town that hated him. Had always hated him. And was ready to pick up where the prison system had left off.

Now he's on the run from men who've tried to kill him once; but Michael is more than an ex-con. A powerful, sinister force skulks within him, threatening and destructive. What--and who--it will destroy next is the only real question.

From the bold voice that brought readers down Purgatory Road comes a new pulse-pounding, spine-rattling tale of vengeance and justice.

My Reflections:
One word.. chilling!
I have a confession to make when I was young I read my mom's books which were always thrillers laced with ample suspense. These books terrified me! I was a youth who didn't know any better. Now I am sure to keep my reading material clean and uplifting. However, I find my self still reaching out for those scary books from time to time. No more Stephan King or Dean Koontz for me, but Samuel Parker's newest release "Cold Water" Sure brought back those scary nights of reading! 
I don't think I prepared for this book quite enough, having just finished a lovely safe Biblical fiction type read I didn't leave enough buffer for jumping headlong into this dark novel of good vs evil. 
I can't say I loved this book. The depth of demonic presence, the intense, gritty pace, it just left me anxious and breathless. That being said It does spur readers to keep flipping the pages to see what nefarious events Michael Sullian will endure next. 
Michael is no stranger evil, having committed a heinous crime when he was a mear child left him scared and deeply troubled. 20 years served is not enough for some, now released he is fighting more than the darkness to live again. Will he be granted a second chance? Is it even possible to dig his way to the light and a new beginning?

While the tale is dark and nightmarish, the writing is cogent and precise, it certainly leaves its mark! Characters are also so gripping you may just have to throw the book across the room.
If you are in the mood for quite a ride, pick this one up, it's spine-tingling pace will undoubtedly keep you up all night while you devour the entirety!

This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
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Book Review: Oath Of Honor

From the Back:

A murdered partner. A missing brother. Will Isabelle's silence protect those she loves . . . or delay justice?
Police officer Isabelle St. John loves her crazy, loud, law-enforcement family. She knows they'll be there for her when things get tough. Like when her partner is murdered and she barely escapes with her own life.

Izzy is determined to discover exactly what happened, and her investigation sends her headfirst into a criminal organization, possibly with cops on the payroll--including someone from her own family. With her dead partner's brother Ryan, a handsome homicide detective, shadowing her every move, Izzy's head is spinning. How can she secure justice for her partner when doing so could mean sending someone she loves to prison? And how will she guard her heart when the man she's had a secret crush on for years won't leave her side?

My Reflections:

When I read a novel by Linette Eason, I know there will be a few essential elements involved. Here is what I expect, a full-bodied plot, well-rounded characters who really get under your skin, they are so true to life that you actually feel sad when you must let them go and lastly action, lots and lots of heart-pounding action!

This first book in the Blue Justice series hits the nail on all these aspects and so much more! 

I loved the main character, Isabelle's extended, wild and noisy family. They love each other fiercely, supporting each other through most everything. Isabelle finds herself determined to bring her partners death to justice after he was gunned down at a stakeout gone bad. 

With her life hanging in the balance she must enlist the help of none other than her childhood crush. Determined to focus on the task at hand they are determined to solve this heinous crime.

If you are looking for a novel with non-stop action twists and unpredictable turns, sprinkled with a light dash of romance this just might be the right novel for you. 

This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.