Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Review: Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron


 Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1426752784/ref=x_gr_w_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=httpwwwgoodco-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1426752784&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2http://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com

Tess has taken some ribbing from her fellow officer, Logan, for her quilting hobby. He finds it hard to align the brisk professional officer he patrols with during the day with the one who quilts in her off-time. Besides, he's been trying to get to know her better and he'd like to be seeing her during those few nights a week she spends with her quilting guild. Then one afternoon Tess and Logan visit her aunt in the nursing home, and the woman acts agitated when Tess covers her with the story quilt. Aunt Susan is attempting to communicate a message to them about Tess's uncle. There's a story behind this quilt, they realize, one that may lead them to a serial killer. Will they have a chance to have a future together, or will the killer choose Tess for his next victim before they find him?

My Review

I love Barbara Cameron's Amish stories, so I wasn't surprised that her quality writing carried over to another genre for this suspense novel. The beginning was rather slow as we are introduced to the characters, but quickly picks up the pace as Tess and Logan start investigating their first case together. Much of the conversation between them happens over meals shared- it seems they are always eating! :) I loved the level of anticipation from their relationship progressing as well as the mystery of who-done-it. Subtle clues begin to appear about midway through the novel that reveal the killer to the reader, so the ending is not quite a surprise but suspenseful nonetheless as Tess and Logan get closer to solving the case. This has been my favorite so far of the Quilts of Love series. (Sidenote: the publisher's synopsis above isn't quite true to the story, so don't let it prejudice you towards Logan, who is actually more gentlemanly than it implies).

(ARC provided via Netgalley for unbiased review)

Monday, May 19, 2014

Review and Giveaway: Silenced by Dani Pettrey


Get your copy of SILENCED by Author Dani Pettrey!

Silenced by Dani Pettrey


My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com

A relaxing day of rock climbing takes a disturbing turn when Kayden McKenna's route leads her face to face with a dead climber. Is it a terrible accident or something sinister? When the case is handed to the overburdened sheriff, he turns to Jake Westin. With Jake's past now revealed, he's ready to use his talent for investigation again--but he could never prepare for where the case will take him.

Kayden and Jake soon realize that the death was no accident. And worse, it seems the killer is on to them. When strange things begin happening in Yancey, Jake is terrified that once again his world may put someone he loves in danger. But the truth is far worse than he could ever imagine.


My Review

I'm hooked on this series! I love the McKenna family and their suspenseful stories. Silenced (the fourth in the Alaskan Courage series) can be read as a stand-alone novel, but I recommend reading them in order if you'd like to know the backstory of the siblings from the previous novels. The author has been introducing the connection/relationship between the main characters in each previous novel, so you get a better feel for their history if you've read them first.

I've been looking forward to Kayden and Jake's story since there has been so much tension between them! Kayden has been vocally suspicious of Jake's past since he hasn't shared with the family where he came from. Once she found out his tragic story in Stranded, it set the scene in Silenced for her to reconcile with him and recognize the attraction she has. She has been an abrasive and fiercely protective personality in the previous books, but now we gain more of an understanding of her vulnerabilities and fears. Jake has always known how strong she is, but is waiting for the chance to connect with and get closer to the real Kayden.

The mystery had me as baffled as Jake- the clues and suspects weren't adding up, although any of them could be guilty based on the circumstantial evidence. The author is so skilled at creating anxiety and anticipation while you read as fast as you can to follow the trail with the characters. Jake and Kayden spent quite a bit of time together while investigating the case, but the pacing of the romance slowed as they failed to communicate their feelings- instead, angsting over them with internal dialogue. The case takes a lot of their focus, and when mystery is finally solved, the race is on to catch the villian who always seems to be one step ahead of them...

(ARC provided via Netgalley for unbiased review)

Alaskan Courage series
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15713049-shatteredhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17384515-strandedhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18651854-silenced



About the Author

Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the romantic suspense series Alaskan Courage, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, and her latest release, Silenced. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their daughters, son-in-law, and super adorable grandson.

Saturday, May 17, 2014

E-book sale TODAY ONLY! Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay


Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay

Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay is on sale for $1.99 TODAY ONLY!
(E-book deal is for a limited time, so check the price before ordering)

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com

Dear Mr. Knightley is a contemporary epistolary novel with a delightful dash of Jane Austen.

Samantha Moore survived years of darkness in the foster care system by hiding behind her favorite characters in literature, even adopting their very words. Her fictional friends give her an identity, albeit a borrowed one. But most importantly, they protect her from revealing her true self and encountering more pain.

After college, Samantha receives an extraordinary opportunity. The anonymous “Mr. Knightley” offers her a full scholarship to earn her graduate degree at the prestigious Medill School of Journalism. The sole condition is that Sam write to Mr. Knightley regularly to keep him apprised of her progress.

As Sam’s true identity begins to reveal itself through her letters, her heart begins to soften to those around her—a damaged teenager and fellow inhabitant of Grace House, her classmates at Medill, and, most powerfully, successful novelist Alex Powell. But just as Sam finally begins to trust, she learns that Alex has secrets of his own—secrets that, for better or for worse, make it impossible for Sam to hide behind either her characters or her letters.


Friday, May 16, 2014

Free e-book TODAY ONLY! Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron


Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron

Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron is free for download TODAY ONLY! It's part of the Quilts of Love series. I'm currently reading it and will be reviewing it soon!
(E-book deal is for a limited time, so check the price before ordering)

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com

Tess has taken some ribbing from her fellow officer, Logan, for her quilting hobby. He finds it hard to align the brisk professional officer he patrols with during the day with the one who quilts in her off-time. Besides, he s been trying to get to know her better and he d like to be seeing her during those few nights a week she spends with her quilting guild. Then one afternoon Tess and Logan visit her aunt in the nursing home, and the woman acts agitated when Tess covers her with the story quilt. Aunt Susan is attempting to communicate a message to them about Tess s uncle. There s a story behind this quilt, they realize, one that may lead them to a serial killer. Will they have a chance to have a future together, or will the killer choose Tess for his next victim before they find him?

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Free e-book: The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh

The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh

The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh is free for download today only!

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com

What began as a fairytale honeymoon in 1857 for John and Laura Foster aboard the steamship SS Vandervere becomes a nightmare when a hurricane causes their ship to sink into the murky depths of the Atlantic. Laura finds herself with the other women and children aboard a sailing ship while John and a hundred other men drift on the open sea on anything they could grab as the Vandervere went down. Suspecting her John is gone but still daring to hope for a miracle, Laura must face the possibility of life alone--and meeting her new in-laws without their son if she ever reaches New York.

Readers will be holding their breath as they sail through this emotional and honest story of hope, faith, and love in the face of uncertainty. Talented author Dan Walsh skillfully tells an epic story through an intimate focus on two lost lovers. Inspired by real events, this moving novel will capture the hearts of all who dive into its pages.

Review: Avra's God by Ann Lee Miller


My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com

In the tradition of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, four friends navigate college and the drama churned up by their Florida beach band to cement friendship and more.

Avra wants love, but drummer Cisco—self-medicating from his parents’ divorce with sex and intoxicants—is a poor choice. Cisco hungers for fresh-baked cookies and the scent of family he finds at Avra’s.

Kallie shares her classically trained singing voice only with lead vocalist Jesse and fights to keep her heart safe. Jesse feeds on fame and hides more than insecurity beneath his guitar.

The friends surf ego, betrayal, and ambition and head for wipe-out. But somehow, when they’re not looking, Avra’s God changes them all.


My Review

What a rollercoaster of emotion! Reading this "New Adult" book reminds me of one of those e-cards that I think is hilarious and oh-so-true:
The author skillfully portrayed all the drama, emotion, indecision, change, and maturing that happens during the college years. The characters are vibrant- I felt like I really got to know each of them- their strengths, hopes, vulnerabilities, and fears. The story is told from four perspectives- the two girls, and the two guys who break their hearts. I appreciated having the insights into what the guys were thinking, although that didn't prevent me from still having a hard time understanding the male psyche. (Maybe it's because I grew up with all sisters). I kept thinking, if they would only just sit down and talk about what they are really feeling! But that's not usually reality- and the conflicts these young adults struggled with and the way they handled them sure felt real. The spiritual journey and growth of each character also felt realistic- it was a progression towards connecting with God, learning how to be comforted and guided by him, seeking forgiveness and the grace to forgive.

The author Ann Lee Miller has three other books in her New Smyrna Beach series (the location of the Florida college community), and Kicking Eternity is currently free for download!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15892244-kicking-eternityhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16276593-the-art-of-my-life


(a copy of the book was provided by the author for unbiased review)

Monday, May 12, 2014

Review: Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma

Snow on the Tulips by Liz Tolsma

My rating: 5 stars / it was amazing!

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com

In a time of unprecedented darkness and fear, Cornelia must decide if saving a stranger’s life is worth risking her own.

In the twilight of the Nazi occupation of The Netherlands, the Germans have taken everything Cornelia had to give, even what was most precious to her. Now Gerrit Laninga—a man who puts God and country above all else—arrives at her house, needing help. She is terrified for herself and terrified for her family, but most of all, terrified of the pain she might feel again if she allows herself to love Gerrit. Her hope is to be free from her paralyzing fear.

Gerrit is a known and hunted Dutch Resistance member. When he comes to Cornelia’s home for shelter, he’s drawn to her strength and kindness. When he asks her to contact the local Resistance on his behalf, she refuses. Gerrit is determined to find a way to continue his underground work without putting Cornelia or her family in harm’s way.

When things start to unravel and Gerrit’s life depends on her actions, she must summon her courage and learn to depend on the perfect love that drives out all fear. But will her new love be snatched away before it has a chance to bloom?


My Review

When I read the afterword at the end of this novel and learned that some of the circumstances are based on real events from the lives of the author's ancestors, I appreciated it all the more for bringing to life the intensity of living in a Nazi-occupied country. While there is anxiety, pain, fear, loss, and grief, the author also successfully portrayed hope, familial bonds, patriotism, compassion, and love. I felt like I was on the edge of my seat, wondering what direction the story would go. The spiritual growth of the characters is inspiring. The point in the novel where I became the most emotional was when Cornelia and Gerrit sing together the hymn "We Gather Together". The words are so profound and apply to their struggles so well. I highly recommend this book, and look forward to reading the author's new release, Daisies are Forever.

(ARC provided via Netgalley for unbiased review)

Meant to Be Mine book tour grand finale!


A book tour hosted by Prism Book Tours.

The REVIEW & EXCERPT TOUR GRAND FINALE for
Meant to Be Mine
by Becky Wade

Happy Mother's Day! In Meant to Be Mine, Celia has been living as a single mother and then later in the story has to figure out who she is as a woman as her daughter becomes less dependent on her. We want to thank all you moms out there who give so much of yourselves to do what you do!! It isn't easy being a mother all the time, but it is also one of the best jobs for all the love given and received.


Meant to be Mine (A Porter Family Novel, #2)
Meant to Be Mine
(A Porter Family Novel #2)
by Becky Wade

Christian Romance
May 2014 by Bethany House Publishers

Ty Porter has always been irresistible to Celia Park. All through high school—irresistible. When their paths cross again after college—still irresistible. This time, though, Ty seems to feel exactly the same way about Celia. Their whirlwind romance deposits them at a street-corner Las Vegas wedding chapel.

The next morning they wake to a marriage certificate and a dose of cold reality. Celia’s ready to be Ty’s wife, but Ty’s not ready to be her husband. He’s a professional bull rider, he lives on the road, and he’s long planned to settle down with the hometown girl he’s known since childhood.

Five and a half years pass. Celia’s buried her dreams so that she can afford to raise her daughter. Ty’s achieved all of his goals. Or thought he had, until he looks again into the eyes of the woman he couldn’t forget and into the face of the child he never knew he had.

How much will Ty sacrifice to win back Celia’s trust and prove to her that their spontaneous marriage can still become the love of a lifetime?

Did you miss any of the stops along the tour? 
You can go back and check them out now!

May 5
"It had a perfect mix of romance, heartbreak, well-fleshed characters, inspiration, hope, and a small-town setting....Truly a well-written, heartfelt, and enjoyably sweet story!"

I Am A Reader - Excerpt
     “I’m not Mrs. Porter.” Teasing tinged her voice. She didn’t want to be too hard on him, not when the notion of him wanting to marry her was so outrageously flattering.
     “Determined to wait until after the ceremony, huh?” He tipped the dealers and requested a tray so that he could pack up his chips. “You coming?”
     “Definitely.” She didn’t want to tell him this, at the risk of seeming pathetic. But she’d follow him anywhere.

Rina's Reading - Review
"Read this if you enjoy contemporary romance with twists, cowboys and cute little girls. And great (clean, but sweep you off your feet) kisses."

May 6
     There he was.
     She forgot how to breathe.
     He was striding down the sidewalk towards her, a few shops away and closing, looking up, probably to find the sign that said Jana’s.
     She’d anticipated that he’d look handsome. But ‘handsome’ was something you might say about a male model in a magazine ad; it was too stiff and flat an adjective for Ty Porter.
     Ty Porter had the kind of appeal that pulled your gaze to him and wouldn’t let you look away.

JoJo's Corner - Review
"I think this story will ring true and resonate with many readers- that love isn’t always like a Disney fairy tale. If you’re a fan of great love stories with memorable characters- don’t miss this one!!!!"

Heidi Reads... - Review
"I was surprised by how much I loved this book! The secret baby theme isn't my favorite, but the author was so skilled in portraying the complex emotions of the characters, I was immediately drawn in and couldn't put the book down!...I definitely recommend this book and can't wait to read the rest of her books!"

May 7
Copywrite1985 - Review
"Ty Porter and Celia Parker got married in Vegas after dating four days. It shouldn’t have worked, and for a long time, it didn’t. But God had a plan to save the bull rider and the baker’s marriage, and He carried it out despite their stubbornness, bitterness, and inability to forgive. This reader really enjoyed being along for the ride."

Kindle and Me - Review
"I am so glad that I read this. It delved deeper into all aspects of relationships with their sacrifices and trust issues. It was an eye opener for me. I definitely will be reading the rest of the series."

Redpillows - Review
"This is truly a fun read and the simpleness of the story is beautiful. The author has also brought out the strong belief people have in God and in the end how that can shape or change a person’s life if you just believe. This is a beautiful story of love, understanding and trust, the lengths to which people can go to protect the ones they love or to gain the trust of the people they love."

Little Lisa - Spotlight
"I LOVED THIS BOOK! I loved the banter, the romance and the theme of forgiveness! I couldn't put the book down and recommend it to all!!!"

Add Librarian - Review
"It’s romance with just the right touch of faith at it’s heart. The characters are spot on and the pacing is fantastic."

May 8
"I absolutely loved the journey Ty and Celia went on in their discovery of what truly matters in life. The journey to true love isn't always easy, but it can be so much fun, as well as sweet and romantic."

     “Aw,” he crooned. “Watching me ride gave you a little thing for me, didn’t it sweet one?”
     She turned a withering look on him. “What kind of a thing?”
     “A burning love kind of a thing.”
     “Hardly.”
     “Admit it, you missed me while I was gone.” 
     “Not in the least.” 
     “Still hate me?” 
     “Yes.” 

     If he could feel a calm sort of kindness toward Celia, that would be good. That's what he'd been going for tonight.
     Instead, when she'd opened her door, pleasure had rushed through him at the sight of her. After years on the road, seeing her standing in front of him with a bright, good-smelling house behind her had felt like coming home. The kind of home that had nothing to do with her fool apartment.

     Once Pummeler had disappeared down the passage where all bulls disappeared, Ty lifted his hat, smiled at the crowd, and turned in a circle to acknowledge their support. The down-home commentators with the chicken-fried-steak accents called him a ‘fan favorite’ and a ‘three time world champion’ and ‘third in the season’s standings’.
     “Nice try, Pummeler.” Celia shook her head and fast-forwarded. 
     Ty rode again and stayed on again. 
     Unfortunately no one would be denting Ty’s arrogance tonight.

"If you are looking for a cute story full of witty banter and to sink your teeth into be sure to check out this book as well as Becky Wade’s other stories."

"I just got through Becky Wades new book called Meant to Be. If you haven't read any books by Becky, I highly recommend it! She is a delight....It's truly great and I give it five stars!"

May 9
"I just loved everything about this book. I loved that it made me mad, and laugh and cry. I mean, when an author does that to me, I just want to jump up and down. I know, kind of crazy, but I love it when a book can bring such emotions out of me....It was sweet, funny, and just an all around great read."

Batch of Books - Review
"It's official. I'm a die hard Becky Wade fan. I love her books. They are real and heartfelt stories that I connect to....I would highly recommend this book to fans of Christian fiction and romance. It's a beautiful reminder that marriage is sacred to God."

"The Christian elements are there but aren’t overpowering. The story really shines through and I enjoyed it all a lot. In fact, when I finished this book, which is the second in the series, I went right to Amazon to check out the other books by this author."

"I just love the simplicity and the beauty of the story. It’s about love and forgiveness. It’s one of those books you want to read if you want to relax and unwind."


About the Author

During her childhood in California, Becky Wade frequently produced homemade plays starring her sisters, friends, and cousins. These plays almost always featured a heroine, a prince, and a love story with a happy ending. She's been a fan of all things romantic ever since.

Becky and her husband lived overseas in the Caribbean and Australia before settling in Dallas, Texas. It was during her years abroad that Becky's passion for reading turned into a passion for writing. She published three historical romances for the general market, put her career on hold for many years to care for her kids, and eventually returned to writing sheerly for the love of it. She’s delighted to be penning warm, wry, and heartwarming contemporary romances for the Christian market. Her CBA debut, My Stubborn Heart, was a finalist in both the RITA and INSPY awards. Undeniably Yours kicked off her Texas-set Porter Family series. Her newest contemporary romance, Meant to Be Mine, has just hit shelves!

These days Becky can be found failing but trying to keep up with her housework, sweating at the gym, carting her kids around town, playing tennis, hunched over her computer, eating chocolate, or collapsed on the sofa watching TV with her husband.



Tour-Wide Giveaway

Prize #1: $50 Visa gift card and a paperback or ebook copy of Meant to Be Mine (open internationally)
Prize #2: 1 lb. of Starbucks coffee and signed copies of Undeniably Yours and Meant to Be Mine (US Only)
Prize #3: Box of See's Chocolates and signed copies of Undeniably Yours and Meant to Be Mine (US Only)
May 4 - 18

Prism Book Tours
Are you a blogger and want to receive information about new tours? Go HERE.
Are you an author or publisher and would like to have us organize a tour event? Go HERE.

Free e-book! It Had to Be You by Susan May Warren

It Had to Be You by Susan May Warren

Not sure how long this sale will last, so download It Had to be You by Susan May Warren for free while you can!
(E-book deal is for a limited time, so check the price before ordering)

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com

Eden Christiansen never imagined her role as her younger brother Owen's cheerleader would keep her on the sidelines of her own life. Sure, it feels good to be needed, but looking after the reckless NHL rookie leaves little time for Eden to focus on her own career. She dreamed of making a name for herself as a reporter, but is stuck writing obits--and starting to fear she doesn't have the chops to land a major story. If only someone would step up to mentor Owen . . . but she knows better than to expect help from team veteran and bad-boy enforcer Jace Jacobsen. Jace has built his career on the infamous reputation of his aggressive behavior--on and off the ice. Now at a crossroads about his future in hockey, that reputation has him trapped. And the guilt-trip he's getting from Eden Christiansen isn't making things any easier. But when Owen's carelessness leads to a career-threatening injury and Eden stumbles upon a story that could be her big break, she and Jace are thrown together . . . and begin to wonder if they belong on the same team after all.

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Mother's Day weekend e-book freebies and deals!

I'll be updating this post as I find more deals, but here's two freebies to start with...

Love's Promises
Love's Promises by Sandra Leesmith will be free Sunday, May 11th only

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis from goodreads.com
For Monica Scott, building her late father’s house at Lake Tahoe isn’t an option—it’s a necessary distraction from confusing memories and an uncertain future. But a handsome planner working for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) is keeping Monica from moving forward with the project. Never mind that he’s young and charming with a great sense of humor. No one is going to stop Monica from making her father’s dream—and her own—a reality.

All Greg Linsey wants is for his work to mean something. His job at TRPA gives him the opportunity to fight for the environment he loves and make a difference in his small corner of the world. But with the sophisticated Monica Scott’s arrival, his dedication is tested as never before, especially when Monica turns to his unscrupulous nemesis for assistance.

As Greg and Monica’s animosity turns into something far sweeter, can they learn to accept each other’s promises and avoid the growing danger to their lives and hearts?

 
Second Chance Ranch

Second Chance Ranch by Audra Harders is free this weekend... and I recently read on facebook a recommendation for it by author Julie Lessman!

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.goodreads.com
Synopsis from goodreads.com

The Trails’ End Ranch is For Sale.

Pediatric nurse, Jennifer O’Reilly returns home to Hawk Ridge, Colorado to establish a mountain recreation camp as a safe adventure for children battling cancer. Her path to ownership depends on developing a profitable business plan to convince the bank she can manage not only the camping facility, but the entire Trails’ End Ranch operation.

Generations earlier, one misplayed hand of poker lost the family ranch, and Zac Davidson, youngest son and financial genius of the Circle D, wants it back. Intrigued since childhood by the legend of his great grandfather, Zac is the only family member who holds out hope that one day the Trails’ End would become Davidson property again. When the Trails’ End goes on the market, cost is no object — only Jennifer O’Reilly stands between Zac and his dream.

Once high school sweethearts, Jennifer and Zac have wounded each other, and the scars run deep. Jennifer is forced to reveal a secret she’s protected for twelve years. Will it jeopardize the future of both of their dreams or offer them a second chance?