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Book Review: The Singing Quilt

22 Jul

Jolissa Montoya believes God is calling her to work with the disadvantaged children in her inner-city neighborhood. There’s only one problem: The children wouldn’t be able to understand her. Jolissa suffers from a speech impediment and has a thick accent because Spanish is her first language. Ridiculed through much of her youth, she is quite shy and reticent to speak. She is convinced that what God has spoken to her heart is impossible. Impossible, that is, until one day when she shares her concerns with a confidante who shows her a quilt ― a quilt that depicts the life of a courageous woman. Can another woman’s courage move her to try the impossible to step out and follow God wherever He leads her? The Singing Quilt is set against the backdrop of the life of Fanny Crosby, who in addition to writing hundreds of songs was also a well-known public speaker and active in Christian rescue missions despite her disability. Readers will be inspired not to let fear or a disability prevent them from answering what they think is God’s impossible call.

 

Kathi Macias is a multi-award winning writer who has authored nearly 40 books and ghostwritten several others. A former newspaper columnist and string reporter, Kathi has taught creative and business writing in various venues and has been a guest on many radio and television programs. Kathi is a popular speaker at churches, women’s clubs and retreats, and writers’ conferences. She won the 2008 Member of the Year award from AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) and was the 2011 Author of the Year from BooksandAuthors.net. Kathi “Easy Writer” Macias lives in Homeland, CA, with her husband. You can find out more about Kathi or contact her via her website: www.kathimacias.com.

 

My Impressions:

The Singing Quilt by Kathi Macias was chosen by my church book club because of its storyline featuring Fanny Crosby, the well-beloved and prolific hymn writer. The connection between the long ago woman of faith and a modern-day story was intriguing. Unfortunately, the novel fell a bit flat for many of our members. Macias is one of my favorite writers whose diverse characters and social justice messages combined with Christian faith make her an auto-read. But The Singing Quilt just wasn’t my cup of tea. The consensus of my group was that we loved learning about Fanny Crosby’s history, but felt the contemporary story and characters were a bit contrived and one-dimensional. The conflict described in the book was neatly and conveniently resolved, leaving us wanting more. The book also had a definite YA-vibe, although it is not billed as such.

No, I was not a fan of The Singing Quilt. Will it keep me from reading more from Macias? Not at all! Not every book an author writes will appeal to all readers, and her track record of writing insightful and thought-provoking fiction will keep me reading her works.

(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Book Review + Giveaway! — Over The Line

18 Jul

Over the Line FB Banner

About the Book

Book: Over the Line

Author: Kelly Irvin

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: June 11, 2019

Over the LIneIn this high-stakes romantic suspense novel where tensions mount on both sides of the border, bestselling author Kelly Irvin explores what happens when the past explodes against the present and the only person you can turn to is the one who broke your heart.

When a college student dies at Gabriella’s feet after muttering her brother’s name, vicious gun smugglers believe she knows too much. And they’re determined to make sure she suffers the same fate. With no one else to turn to, Gabriella reunites with her former fiancé, homicide detective Eli Cavazos, to investigate the dead man’s murder and her brother’s disappearance.

In a desperate race against time, Gabriella and Eli are determined to clear her brother and find him before the gun smugglers can kill them both. Bit by bit, they tear away the masks worn by men masquerading as law-abiding citizens. No one can be trusted.

Working as a team forces Gabriella and Eli to face the problems that ended their relationship. She realizes she’s the one who needs to learn to forgive, but Eli must also learn to trust her with his secrets.

This ragtag team must fight a powerful ring of criminals protected by the very institutions that should prosecute them in an all-out battle that may cost them their lives.

 

Click here to grab your copy.

 

About The Author

Kelly IrvinKelly Irvin is the bestselling author of the Every Amish Season and Amish of Bee County series. The Beekeepers Son received a starred review from Publishers Weekly, who called it a “beautifully woven masterpiece.” The two-time Carol Award finalist is a former newspaper reporter and retired public relations professional. Kelly lives in Texas with her husband, photographer Tim Irvin. They have two children, two grandchildren, and two cats. In her spare time, she likes to read books by her favorite authors. Visit her online at KellyIrvin.com; Instagram: kelly_irvin; Facebook: Kelly.Irvin.Author; Twitter: @Kelly_S_Irvin.

 

More from Kelly

Over the Line by Kelly Irvin turns the heat up on suspense with a setting in Laredo, Texas. Here’s a spicy chili to pair with the book while you’re reading.

 

(adapted from 1979 World’s Fair Chili Recipe)

3 lbs. round steak, chopped
3 lbs. chuck roast, chopped
6 T. vegetable oil
6 T. chili Powder
6 T. cumin
6 garlic cloves minced
2 whole onions, chopped
1 T. oregano
2 T. paprika
2 T. cider vinegar
4 ounces green chilies, diced
14 oz. stewed tomatoes (one can)
1 T. Tabasco sauce
2 T. cornmeal
3 c. beef broth
Pepper to taste
Brown meat in oil. Pepper to taste. Drain oil from meat, add chili pepper, cumin, garlic, and onion. Cook for 30 to 45 minutes. Stir often.
Add oregano, paprika, vinegar, 2 c. broth, green chilies, stewed tomatoes, and Tabasco sauce. Simmer 30 to 45 minutes. Stir often.
Dissolve cornmeal in one cup of beef broth. Pour into chili. Simmer another 30 minutes, stirring often. (Chili is done when meat is tender.)

Serves 8.

Kelly’s Note: My husband loves his chili with saltine crackers. I like Fritos. We all agree that chili should NOT have beans in it. My mom always made homemade cinnamon rolls to have for dessert when she made her chili. Hmmm. That sounds good. I’m off to the kitchen! Enjoy!

 

My Impressions:

The action starts fast and furious in Kelly Irvin’s romantic suspense novel, Over The Line, and does not let up until the very end. Set primarily in the border city of Laredo, Texas, this book is full of all the things to get your heart racing — drive-by shootings, fire bombs, home invasions, and the perfect chemistry between main characters Gabriella Benoit and Eli Cavazos. The two ex-fiances are brought together when Gabriella discovers a gun-shot victim with ties to her missing ATF agent brother. I enjoyed the non-stop suspense and the romantic tension between the two main characters. They are joined in their hunt by secondary characters who are just as endearing and have a romantic sup-plot as well. Is there a sequel in the making? I hope so! Laredo and the issues of the border are presented in a relevant manner — from the author’s depiction, I felt I was right in the middle of things. Bad guys are very bad; you just aren’t sure who they are! Forgiveness is the main theme and more than one character struggles with letting go of past hurts and self-recriminations. Irwin is a new-to-me author who I will definitely be on the look out for. I already have another of her novels, Tell Her No Lies, waiting impatiently on the TBR shelf.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to Celebrate Lit for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, July 9

A Baker’s Perspective, July 9

Emily Yager, July 10

Godly Book Reviews, July 10

Genesis 5020, July 11

Bigreadersite, July 11

Through the Fire Blogs, July 12

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, July 12

The Becca Files, July 13

For Him and My Family, July 13

Inklings and notions, July 13

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 14

Living Life Free in Christ,  July 14

Moments, July 15

Daysong Reflections, July 15

All-of-a-kind Mom, July 16

Hallie Reads, July 16

Remembrancy, July 17

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, July 17

By The Book, July 18

For the Love of Books, July 18

Real World Bible Study, July 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 19

Simple Harvest Reads, July 20

Texas Book-aholic, July 20

Pause for Tales, July 21

janicesbookreviews, July 21

Ashley’s Bookshelf, July 22

A Reader’s Brain, July 22

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Kelly is giving away the grand prize of a copy of her book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra enemies into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/e5a9/over-the-line-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Book Review: My Dearest Dietrich

17 Jul

A staggering love illuminating the dark corners of a Nazi prison

Renowned German pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer is famous for his resistance to the Nazi regime and for his allegiance to God over government. But what few realize is that the last years of his life also held a love story that rivals any romance novel.

Maria von Wedemeyer knows the realities of war. Her beloved father and brother have both been killed on the battlefield. The last thing this spirited young woman needs is to fall for a man under constant surveillance by the Gestapo. How can she give another piece of her heart to a man so likely to share the same final fate? Yet when Dietrich Bonhoeffer, an old family friend, comes to comfort the von Wedemeyers after their losses, she discovers that love isn’t always logical.

Dietrich himself has determined to keep his distance from romantic attachments. There is too much work to be done for God, and his involvement in the conspiracy is far too important. But when he encounters a woman whose intelligence and conviction match his own, he’s unprepared for how easy it is to give away his heart.

With their deep love comes risk — and neither Dietrich nor Maria is prepared for just how great that risk soon becomes.

Based on detailed historical research, this true love story is at once beautiful and heartrending. My Dearest Dietrich sheds new light on a world-famous theologian . . . and the woman who changed his life.

ECPA best-selling author Amanda Barratt fell in love with writing in grade school when she wrote her first story — a spinoff of Jane Eyre. Now, Amanda writes romantic, historical novels and novellas, penning stories of beauty and brokenness set against the backdrop of bygone eras not so very different from our own.

She’s also the author of My Heart Belongs in Niagara Falls, New York: Adele’s Journey, as well as seven novellas with Barbour Publishing. Two of her novellas have been finalists in the FHL Reader’s Choice Awards.

Amanda lives in the woods of Michigan with her fabulous family, where she can be found reading way too many books, plotting her next novel, and jotting down imaginary travel itineraries for her dream vacation to Europe.

Connect with her on Facebook and visit her online at amandabarratt.net.

 

My Impressions:

Biographical fiction is a hard genre to master. You have to be true to your subject, yet present it in a creative and fresh way that will appeal to readers. Amanda Barratt took on a tough task when deciding to write a book featuring esteemed theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Her newest book, My Dearest Dietrich, captures the man that many did not know existed. An intimate look at the relationship between Bonhoeffer and his fiancee, Maria von Wedemeyer, this novel reminds the reader of the lives and loves that exist even during the turmoil of war. I really liked this book, yet have a hard time articulating how it touched my heart. It is definitely a highly recommended read.

Before starting My Dearest Dietrich, I had only Bonhoeffer’s writings on the Christian life as a frame of reference. Barratt drew on those writings, plus the correspondence between Bonhoeffer and Maria, as well as other letters, to flesh out the man he truly was. Known as a brilliant theologian, a spy and conspirator determined to bring down Hitler, and an ultimate martyr to the cause, Bonhoeffer could be seen as larger than life. Barratt’s portrayal combines those elements with a heart of love and gentleness — a man who yearns for an ordinary life as husband, just as much as he yearns for a restored Germany. Maria is a young woman whose maturity grows as she faces hardship and heartache. Their story is set amidst the backdrop of cruelty and terror, yet it is the novel’s depiction of the mundane that allows the reader to see a blossoming relationship growing even in the hardest of times. There is a sense of hope in that. God was central to Maria and Dietrich’s lives, and their belief in Him determined their day-to-day decisions as well as their defiance of the Nazi regime. The book begins slowly, allowing the reader to see just what the characters are made of. Towards the end, the tension of the end of the war and the certain end of many of the characters’ lives made me read faster and faster. There are so many what-ifs the book brings to mind — what-if the conspiracy had been successful, what-if Bonhoeffer had not been discovered, what-if the Allies advancement on Berlin had been swifter. While I had a sense of sadness for Bonhoeffer and Maria, I am glad that I was given a small glimpse into their lives. Truly heroic, they serve as wonderful examples of lives devoted to each other, as well as Christ.

My Dearest Dietrich is perfect for book discussion groups. There is so, so much to talk about — a Christian’s role in civic affairs, the appropriateness of rebellion against authority, the importance of placing God’s values and laws above society’s — are just a few. But I believe it is the bittersweet love of Maria and Dietrich that will capture the reader’s heart. Grab a few friends to read this book with.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase, click HERE.

(Thanks to Kregel and the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Audiobook Mini-Review: Shattered Justice

15 Jul

There’s no way sheriff’s deputy Dan Justice could have prepared for this. He spent a lifetime ensuring his actions and faith live up to the meaning of his name — Avidan: “God is just.” Then injustice invades his world, ripping away what matters most, forever robbing him of the life he once knew. Can his sisters and small-town community — especially one woman who loves Daniel — help him overcome the horrors he’s facing? Or will bitterness and anger shatter him forever?

What happens when justice fails the lawman?

Sanctuary, Oregon . A town where the local diner owner makes you drink your milk — no matter how old you are. Where juvenile delinquency means blowing up outhouses. Where folks not only know their neighbors, but care about them. For widowed sheriff’s deputy Dan Justice, it’s a place where he and his kids can heal and grow.

Shelby Wilson loves Sanctuary and her work with troubled teens. Like Jayce Dalton. Sure, he’s as troubled as they come, but Shelby knows Dan is exactly what Jayce needs. She just didn’t expect that Dan might be what she’s always needed, too.

But sleepy little Sanctuary has a dark side, steeped in pain and secrets. Secrets that could destroy everything Dan holds dear. Secrets that will one day have Dan groping through the fog toward a lifeless body — and faith-shattering grief.

Can Dan find sanctuary in the light of God’s justice?

Karen Ball is the bestselling author of over seven novels and four novellas, including Shattered Justice, Kaleidoscope Eyes, and The Breaking Point. Her powerful writing blends humor, poignancy, and honesty with God’s truth. Karen lives in Oregon with her husband, Don, and their “kids” – a mischief-making Siberian husky and an indefatigable Aussie-terrier mix.

My Impressions:

My morning walks always lend themselves to a riveting suspense audiobook. I often choose books I have missed or authors I haven’t read yet. A few weeks back I listened to Shattered Justice by seasoned, but new-to-me, author Karen Ball. While this book was published some years back, it still was a fresh and relevant read, due mostly to the questions that it generated about how Christians live their faith, especially in times of hard testing. Main character Dan Justice can be likened to a modern day Job — he suffers loss after loss and begins to question the goodness of God. Ball made him so very real! I liked his very realistic and relatable struggling — glad he is only fictional! The novel is suspense all the way and helped to pass the miles away. I also liked the reader very much. One of the best parts of this book? More to come from other characters introduced in this novel! Two more books in the Family Honor series are available.

A great choice for fans of suspense and for book club discussions, Shattered Justice is a recommended read.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase, click HERE.

(I purchased this book from Audible. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Children’s Corner — The Heart Changer

11 Jul

I get along with a whole lot of help from my friends! One of my best book buddies helps me out with guest reviews from time to time. Carrie is a great elementary school teacher who takes reading very seriously. If I had had her in school, she would have been my favorite teacher! She recently read Jarm del Boccio’s MG historical novel, The Heart Changer. Thanks, Carrie, for helping me and my readers today!

Can an Israelite captive, wrenched from all she loves, serve the very man who destroyed her village?

Miriam is asked to do the impossible: serve the wife of Naaman, commander of the Syrian army. Clinging to treasured memories of home and faith, Miriam faces captivity with worry and bitterness. Little does she know the Heart Changer is wooing and preparing her for a greater mission far beyond what she could imagine.

This middle-grade historical novel reflects the heartache and angst of a young refugee in a foreign land where all hope seems lost.

Jarm  Del Boccio (‘J’ pronounced as a ‘Y’) finds her inspiration in everyday life, but in particular, when she travels the globe, observing the quirky things that happen along the way. Focusing on lives of characters from the past, Jarm is devoted to breathing new life into the pages of history.

Jarm has a background in elementary and high school education, and served for seven years as a school librarian. Grateful for the opportunity, she taught three missionary kids in an isolated area of Papua New Guinea. She is part of SCBWI and American Christian Fiction Writers, and has published articles in “The Old Schoolhouse” magazine.

The Heart Changer, her debut MG historical/biblical fiction, released with Ambassador International April 26th 2019. Jarm is content with the journey God has placed her on, and lives with her husband and adult son and daughter (when they are not away) in a tree-lined suburb of Chicago.

CONNECT WITH JARM: Website | Facebook | Twitter

Carrie’s Thoughts:

The Heart Changer is a Biblical fiction book based on an unnamed girl from 2 Kings. Jarm Del Boccio adds names to create a story of the young girl taken from her home and made to serve Naaman’s wife. As she tries to adjust to her new life she struggles with the God she has always served — but has she truly trusted in Him? Through the fears and unknowns in a new land without family and friends to support her, Miriam learns to trust in Jehovah completely and tells of His miracles to her mistress. Through these conversations her faith is renewed and strengthened and she not only learns to trust but helps Naaman in a powerful way, both physically and spiritually.  Miriam faces many questions and struggles that people in present times face, not only religion, but dealing with people and helping others, making this book relatable in numerous ways. The Heart Changer will challenge its readers to go back to several Old Testament places to reread stories and see just how powerful our God truly is.

Audience: middle grade readers.

To purchase, click HERE. (It is currently 99 cents on Kindle!)

(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Book Review: Ever Faithful

9 Jul

Vibrant historic Yellowstone National Park comes to life in this romantic mystery about a man hiding the truth, braving the west to become something more — and the woman who must confront his deception.

A man who can’t read will never amount to anything — or so Nate Webber believes. But he takes a chance to help his family by signing up for the new Civilian Conservation Corps, skirting the truth about certain “requirements.” Nate exchanges the harsh Brooklyn streets for the wilds of Yellowstone National Park, curious if the Eden-like wonderland can transform him as well.

Elsie Brookes was proud to grow up as a ranger’s daughter, but she longs for a future of her own. After four years serving as a maid in the park’s hotels, she still hasn’t saved enough money for her college tuition. A second job, teaching a crowd of rowdy men in the CCC camp, might be the answer, but when Elsie discovers Nate’s secret, it puts his job as camp foreman in jeopardy. Tutoring leads to friendship and romance, until a string of suspicious fires casts a dark shadow over their relationship. Can they find answers before all of their dreams go up in smoke?

 

Karen Barnett is the award-winning author of The Golden Gate Chronicles (Out of the Ruins, Beyond the Ashes, and Through the Shadows) and Mistaken. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, two kids, and three mischievous dachshunds. When she’s not writing, Karen enjoys photography, hiking, public speaking, decorating crazy birthday cakes, and dragging her family through dusty history museums. Oregon Christian Writers (OCW) honored her with the Writer of Promise Award in 2013 and a Cascade Award for her debut novel, Mistaken, in 2014. In 2016, she was named Writer of the Year by the prestigious Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Karen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Oregon Christian Writers (OCW) and has been published in Guideposts and other national magazines.

My Impressions:

I have loved my bookish trips back to the early days of the National Parks with Karen Barnett’s Vintage National Parks series. First I journeyed to Mt. Rainer, then to Yosemite, and now with the 3rd installment, I traveled to Yellowstone. Ever Faithful, a book set amidst the beauty and wonder of the oldest of the parks, is my favorite of the three. Filled with vivid descriptions, memorable characters, and a message of hope and healing, this historical romance receives a highly recommended rating from me.

I have never been to Yellowstone, but Barnett’s detailed descriptions sent me to the interweb to check out the awesome sights this park contains. I loved visiting via the book, and now have another destination to add to the bucket list. The Yellowstone backdrop with its mud pots, geysers, hot springs, and majestic forests and rivers was perfect for the development of characters Nate and Elsie. Both characters view themselves as imperfect — either too scarred to be beautiful or too dumb to ever amount to anything. As their relationship grows, each helps the other to see the beauty and purpose that God envisioned when He created them. The historical setting with the CCC corp and the early days of the parks was very interesting. I loved that the author includes endnotes to let the reader know the facts behind her fiction. One of my mother’s older brothers worked in the CCC, and Ever Faithful gave me a glimpse into his experiences. While billed as an historical romance, there is adventure and mystery — something for just about everyone!

For a road trip read or a staycation, Ever Faithful is the perfect choice. This fun book kept the pages turning! The only negative was that it ended too quickly!

Highly recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase, click HERE.

(Thanks to Waterbrook for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Book Review: A Mother for His Family

8 Jul

Lady Helena Stanhope’s reputation is in tatters…and she’s lost any hope for a “respectable” tonmarriage. An arranged union is the only solution. But once Helena weds formidable Scottish widower John Gordon, Lord Ardoch, and encounters his four mischievous children, she’s determined to help her new, ever-surprising family. Even if she’s sure love is too much to ask for.

All John needs is someone to mother his admittedly unruly brood. He never imagined that beautiful Lady Helena would be a woman of irresistible spirit, caring and warmth. Or that facing down their pasts would give them so much in common. Now, as danger threatens, John will do whatever it takes to convince Helena their future together — and his love — are for always.

 

Susanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she’s the award-winning author of over a dozen romances with Timeless Heart. A pastor’s wife and mom of two, she loves fancy-schmancy tea parties, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama. Visit her website, http://www.susannedietze.com, and sign up for her newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bRldfv.

 

My Impressions:

A marriage of convenience starts off the Regency romance, A Mother for His Family. While there are many obstacles for the two main characters Lady Helena and Lord John — blackmail, defiant children, past abuse, and prior promises — true love wins out. Most importantly, the love God shows His children. Lady Helena has never known love before her entrance into her new family. She especially did not know that the love God showers down is something no one can ever earn, but is a gracious gift. Besides the strong faith message, the author has created engaging characters, including some adorable children. New ideas that came about in the time period are also realistically and thoughtfully developed. And there is a bit of intrigue along the way. This quick read really has it all.

So if you want a sweet and touching happily-ever-after, A Mother for His Family is a great choice. Perfect to tuck in your beach or pool bag!

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase, click HERE.

(Thanks to JustRead for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Audiobook Mini-Review: Silenced

3 Jul

Jake Knew Something Was Wrong.
But He Never Guessed How Wrong.


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

Kayden’s climbing expertise soon leads her and Jake to the realization that the death was no accident. And worse, it seems the killer is onto 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.

Praised by New York Times best-selling author Dee Henderson as “a name to look for in romantic suspense,” Dani Pettrey has sold more than half a million copies of her novels to readers eagerly awaiting the next release. Dani combines the page-turning adrenaline of a thriller with the chemistry and happy-ever-after of a romance. Her novels stand out for their “wicked pace, snappy dialogue, and likable characters” (Publishers Weekly), “gripping storyline[s],” (RT Book Reviews), and “sizzling undercurrent of romance” (USA Today).

Her Alaskan Courage series and Chesapeake Valor series have received praise from readers and critics alike and spent multiple months topping the CBA bestseller lists. Dani has also been honored with multiple awards, including the Daphne du Maurier Award, two HOLT Medallions, a Christy Award finalist, two National Readers’ Choice Awards, the Gail Wilson Award of Excellence, and Christian Retailing’s Best Award.

From her early years eagerly reading Nancy Drew mysteries, to paging through Agatha Christie novels or watching on-the-edge-of-her-seat adventure movies, Dani has always enjoyed mystery and suspense. She considers herself blessed to be able to write the kind of stories she loves–full of plot twists and peril, love, and longing for hope and redemption. Her greatest joy as an author is sharing the stories God lays on her heart. She researches murder and mayhem from her home in Maryland, where she lives with her husband. Their two daughters, a son-in-law, and two adorable grandsons also reside in Maryland.

My Impressions:

A bucket list trip to Alaska was in the works when I selected as reading “research” Silenced by Dani Pettrey. Her 5-book Alaskan Courage is a great introduction to Alaska for fans of romantic suspense. Silenced is the 4th book in the series and features McKenna sibling Kayden and Jake Cavanaugh, a man she once distrusted, but has growing feelings for. A death in the climbing community pairs the two in an investigation of a possible murder. As they get closer to the truth of what really occurred, threats dog their steps. While Silenced can be read as a standalone novel, the other McKenna siblings featured in the series play a part, both in the backstories as well as the current action. Pettrey has created a tight knit family of siblings and their significant others that readers will love. The action-packed plot kept this reader on her toes — I didn’t anticipate the many twists and turns Pettrey throws at Kayden and Jake. And as in all of her books, romance is a big part. That’s great news for those who love romance mixed in with their suspense. Faith plays a big part in the Pettrey’s books, and her characters reflect her worldview. God is in control, we have only to trust Him. The only negative was that I felt things wrapped up a bit quickly and neatly, but I loved the way that the case was resolved. The audio narrative was well done, with good pacing and tone.

If you are looking for a fast-paced romantic suspense for a weekend getaway or staycation, Silenced is a great choice.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase, click HERE.

(I purchased this book from Audible. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Book Review + Giveaway! — The Pink Bonnet

2 Jul

About The Book

Book: The Pink Bonnet

Author: Liz Tolsma

Genre: Christian Historical, Suspense

Release date: June, 2019

A Desperate Mother Searches for Her Child
Step into True Colors—a new series of Historical Stories of Romance and American Crime

Widowed in Memphis during 1932, Cecile Dowd is struggling to provide for her three-year-old daughter. Unwittingly trusting a neighbor puts little Millie Mae into the clutches of Georgia Tann, corrupt Memphis Tennessee Children’s Home Society director suspected of the disappearance of hundreds of children. With the help of a sympathetic lawyer, the search for Millie uncovers a deep level of corruption that threatens their very lives.

How far will a mother go to find out what happened to her child?

Click here to purchase your copy.

My Impressions:

The Pink Bonnet by Liz Tolsma continues the true crime series that really exemplifies that fact is stranger than fiction. In the second book of the True Colors series, Tolsma presents a very personal look at the corruption and pure evil that dominated the adoption scene in Memphis from the 1920s right up to the 1950s. The infamous Georgia Tann and her Tennessee Children’s Home Society are at the center of the novel. Greed and power are two motivators for those who stole and sold children. But it is an unrelenting love that wins the day in this fictional account. Tolmsa uses historical touches — dress, setting, culture — to set the stage of this mystery/suspense set in the 1930s. A child is stolen, and mother Cecile Dowd never gives up on finding her daughter. Swept into the drama is lawyer and assistant to Tann, Percy Vance. The two are great complimentary characters — dogged in determination and set on seeing that evil does not win. While The Pink Bonnet is pure fiction, it is a good representation of the subject matter. I had heard of Georgia Tann, but did not truly know how she preyed on the desperate and vulnerable, with seemingly no opposition. While primarily a mystery/suspense novel, this quick read also features a budding romance — it really offers something for everyone.

For a glimpse into an historical true crime story, The Pink Bonnet is a good choice and receives a recommended rating from me.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to Celebrate Lit and Barbour Publishing for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

About The Author

Liz Tolsma is a popular speaker and an editor and the owner of the Write Direction Editing. An almost-native Wisconsinite, she resides in a quiet corner of the state with her husband and is the mother of three. Her son proudly serves as a U.S. Marine. They adopted all of their children internationally, and one has special needs. When she gets a few spare minutes, she enjoys reading, relaxing on the front porch, walking, working in her large perennial garden, and camping with her family.

More from Liz

A Desperate Mother Searches for Her Child

True, riveting stories of American criminal activity are explored through 6 unique stories of historical romantic suspense in the exciting new True Colors series.

In book two, The Pink Bonnet, Widowed in Memphis during 1932, Cecile Dowd is struggling to provide for her three-year-old daughter. Unwittingly trusting a neighbor puts little Millie Mae into the clutches of Georgia Tann, corrupt Memphis Tennessee Children’s Home Society director suspected of the disappearance of hundreds of children. With the help of a sympathetic lawyer, the search for Millie uncovers a deep level of corruption that threatens their very lives.

How far will a mother go to find out what happened to her child? Find out in The Pink Bonnet by Liz Tolsma.

The True Crime Behind the Story

Georgia Tann was a woman who ran an adoption agency in Memphis, Tennessee, from 1924 until 1950. It is estimated that, in that time, she kidnapped over five thousand children and sold them to the highest bidder. She even advertised the children in the newspaper, especially around the holidays. Some of the nation’s biggest celebrities adopted through Miss Tann, including Joan Crawford, Dick Powell, and June Allyson. Learn more about Georgia Tann HERE and visit www.TrueColorsCrime.com for more exclusive content.

Blog Stops

Just the Write Escape, June 20

The Becca Files, June 20

Livin’ Lit, June 20

The Power of Words, June 21

Christian Bookaholic, June 21

Godly Book Reviews, June 21

Spoken from the Heart, June 22

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, June 22

For HIm and my Family, June 22

Blossoms and Blessings, June 23

Inspired by fiction, June 23

Mary Hake, June 23

Connie’s History Classroom, June 24

Moments, June 24

Simple Harvest Reads, June 24

Daysong Reflections, June 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 25

For the Love of Literature, June 25

Remembrancy, June 26

As He Leads is Joy, June 26

Emily Yager, June 26

Genesis 5020, June 27

Reader’s Cozy Corner, June 27

Carla Loves to Read, June 27

Inklings and notions, June 28

Changed by Him, June 28

Bigreadersite, June 28

Through the Fire Blogs, June 28

Inspiration Clothesline, June 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, June 29

Pause for Tales, June 29

Hallie Reads, June 30

Ashley’s Bookshelf, June 30

For the Love of Books, June 30

Southern Gal Loves to Read, July 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, July 1

Texas Book-aholic, July 1

janicesbookreviews, July 2

Older & Smarter?, July 2

By The Book, July 2

A Reader’s Brain, July 3

amandainpa, July 3

Little Homeschool on the Prairie, July 3

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Liz is giving away a grand prize that includes a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of The Pink Bonnet!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/e331/the-pink-bonnet-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Book Review + Interview — Belinda Blake And The Snake in The Grass by Heather Day Gilbert

1 Jul

When exotic pet-sitter Belinda Blake moves into a carriage house in tony Greenwich, Connecticut, she’s hoping to find some new clients. Instead she discovers a corpse in the garden — and a knack for solving murders . . .

Pet-sitter Belinda Blake doesn’t rattle easily, but move-in day has been eventful, to say the least. The python in her care tried to slither to freedom — just as she met Stone Carrington V, her landlords’ disarmingly handsome son. With the constrictor back in its cage, she heads out to the garden, only to discover a designer shoe poking out of the boxwood hedge — attached to a woman’s dead body.

The victim, Margo Fenton, was a Carrington family friend, and no one in their circle seems above suspicion. Between client trips to Manhattan and visits to her family in upstate New York, Belinda begins to put the pieces together. But though she’s falling for Stone’s numerous charms, Belinda wonders if she’s cozying up to a killer. And soon, daily contact with a deadly reptile might be the least dangerous part of her life.

My Impressions:

I am a big fan of Heather Day Gilbert’s mysteries. Her Murder in The Mountains series is one of my all-time favorites in the genre. Her newest endeavor is sure to become another fan favorite. Belinda Blake And The Snake in The Grass, book 1 in the Exotic Pet-Sitter Mystery series, introduces the reader to a wonderful character who manages to insert herself into all the murderous goings-on around her. Belinda is a fun character, independent, with a unique style, who has chosen unconventional pathways to a career. She freelances reviews of video games while being the go-to caretaker for very unusual pets. In this first novel, she is pet-sitting a python — clearly not a cuddly creature — which takes some stamina and grit to attend to. Belinda’s earnest and sometimes naive view on the world is endearing. I loved Belinda’s first person insights of the wealthy of Greenwich, Connecticut. She is mostly spot on in her estimation of the other characters. But, she can be fooled! The mystery takes off from the start as Belinda finds a body in her flower bed and continues as she joins the heir of the manor in finding out whodunit. When Belinda finds herself all on her own, the reader discovers the depths of her intuition and ingenuity. I didn’t quite have the mystery solved; Gilbert managed to surprise me with several twists and turns. I loved that! The mystery is resolved in the first book, but there is much more to come for Belinda, including a possible love interest or two. I am looking forward to joining Belinda on more adventures.

If you are looking for a great cozy mystery, get in on the ground floor of the Belinda Blake series. A fun puzzler, Belinda Blake And The Snake in The Grass gets a recommended rating from me.

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase, click HERE.

(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

I am excited to welcome Heather Day Gilbert to By The Book today. I am a big favorite of her mysteries and Viking sagas. Yes, Vikings! Thanks so much, Heather for visiting with us.

I read in your dedication of Belinda Blake And The Snake in The Grass that your father first came up with the stories featuring Belinda and Katrina when you were a child. How did you expand on those to get to the current all grown up Belinda? 

I’m so glad you read that dedication — it was a very special one to me, because my dad had a widow maker heart attack last April that was out of nowhere. Thankfully, they were able to get four stents in and he’s doing well now, but it made me think about how grateful I was for those stories he made up for my two brothers and me on long car trips! Belinda and Katrina and their dog, Blitz, got into many childish adventures in Dad’s stories, and I wanted to use those characters and their sense of adventure for this series. Belinda and Katrina sort of came to life in front of me—their haircolor, their personalities (which are sort of opposite), and more.

Snakes send shivers up my spine. Do you have personal experience with slithery reptiles or did you have to do research for the snake, Rasputin, featured in the book? 

I’m not a snake person, either, but I did get much more comfy with the idea of touching one as I watched YouTube videos of ball python owners. Ball pythons are actually shorter than boas, and they come in many different colors. The ball python Belinda’s pet-sitting is black and gold (you can see pictures and even a link to one of the YouTube ball python videos I watched on my Pinterest board here). And this particular python, Rasputin, really did grow on me as I wrote the book — as it grew on Belinda.

Cozy mysteries involve quirky characters, a bit of fun, and often murder. How difficult is it to balance all the elements in that genre? 

I kind of think of myself as an author who likes to delve into characters and make them 3D, so the quirky character part kind of comes naturally. We ALL have some kinds of quirks, no matter how normal we appear at first blush. The humor has to come from my amateur sleuths themselves, and luckily, Belinda has a cute mix of naiveté and wry humor that comes out in what she thinks and says. She’s also more of an optimist than her sister, Katrina (who’s a psychologist and has seen the darker sides of human nature). 

And murder…well, I do love plotting a good murder and landing on the villain I don’t think readers will guess. I think growing up reading Agatha Christie helped me merge those three elements—if you read her books, sometimes they’ll have you laughing out loud, while sometimes, you’re on the edge of your seat because the creep factor is high!

What awaits Belinda in upcoming books in the series?

Ooh, I’m so glad you asked! I already have the preorder/cover up for Book 2, Belinda Blake and the Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing, and that one was even MORE of a blast to write, because I love wolves and it’s set at a wolf preserve. 😉 Book 3 is titled Belinda Blake and the Birds of a Feather, and it’ll feature homing pigeons, so that also required quite a bit of research. And Belinda will run into some interesting murderers in both books. 

Find out more about Heather Day Gilbert:

 

Heather Day Gilbert, an ECPA Christy award finalist and Grace award winner, writes contemporary mysteries and Viking historicals. Her novels feature small towns, family relationships, and women who aren’t afraid to protect those they love. Publisher’s Weekly gave Heather’s Viking historical Forest Child a starred review, saying it is “an engaging story depicting timeless human struggles with faith, love, loyalty, and leadership.”

Find Heather on Pinterest (heatherdgilbert), Instagram (@heatherdaygilbert), Twitter (@heatherdgilbert), and Facebook (heatherdaygilbert). You can find all her books at heatherdaygilbert.com.

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