Monday, July 31, 2017

Review: True to You (A Bradford Sisters Romance #1) by Becky Wade


Summary

Exciting Start of a Brand-New Series by a Contemporary Romance Fan Favorite
After a devastating heartbreak three years ago, genealogist and historical village owner Nora Bradford has decided that burying her nose in her work and her books is far safer than romance in the here and now.

Unlike Nora, former Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient John Lawson is a modern-day man, usually 100 percent focused on the present. But when he's diagnosed with an inherited condition, he's forced to dig into the secrets of his past and his adoption as an infant, enlisting Nora to help him uncover the identity of his birth mother.

The more time they spend together, the more this pair of opposites suspects they just might be a perfect match. However, John's already dating someone and Nora's not sure she's ready to trade her crushes on fictional heroes for the risks of a real relationship. Finding the answers they're seeking will test the limits of their identity, their faith, and their devotion to one another.
 


My Review

Five Stars

I feel like anything I say won't be adequate enough to express the sheer greatness that is 'True to You'. It was wonderful, funny, romantic, emotional... everything that is good!

From the very first chapter I knew I was gonna like Nora. She's infinitely relatable and one of the most likeable heroines I've ever read. Her bookish nature, love of PBS historical dramas, her quirky sense of humor and vocabulary. She was so much fun to read about. And John... sigh... John is the definition of swoon-worthy. He's such a multifaceted guy. He's brooding, strong, and a man of great character, who is bravely trying to cope with his recent, tough diagnosis. Nora and John are complete opposites, but their opposites totally compliment one another.

The relationship between Nora and her sisters Willow and Britt was very sweet and genuine. It was nice to read about siblings who were so supportive of each other. Though not featured much and despite her negativity and gruff attitude, Grandma was one of my favorites. I hope she has a bigger role in subsequent books.

The genealogy aspect of this book was fascinating, the searching for clues and those clues leading to more clues. It was like searching for missing pieces in a puzzle and so interesting to read about.

I was expecting this book to be a funny and lighthearted romance and it was (I laughed out loud too many times to count), but then it took a turn for the more serious with a shocking twist that literally stole my breath. It added a completely new layer of depth to the whole story.

I did not want 'True to You' to end! It was a fantastic story that I'm so glad I read! I'm very much looking forward to the rest of this series! Highly recommend!

Favorite Quotes

Shutting her into this room without her phone was akin to shoving Linus into the world without his blanket.

Who had time to watch football when there were so many fantastic books in the world yet unread?

“You don’t fully know yourself and what you’re capable of until you’re faced with the worst. The worst shows you who you are.”

“...the past might be challenging and the future might be unsure. And that’s okay. The present is all we’re given, anyway. When we get to the future, God will be there. He’ll supply whatever we need for each day.”


About the Author



During her childhood in California, Becky 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. She’s the Carol Award, INSPY Award, and Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award winning author of My Stubborn Heart, the Porter Family series, and the Bradford Sisters Romance series.

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.

Connect with Becky on her website, Facebook page, Twitter, Goodreads, Instagram, Pinterest, and blog.

Saturday, July 29, 2017

Week in Review: July 24 - July 28, 2017


I thought I'd start a new feature on my blog with Week in Review where I recap what's been posted this week and give a little sneak peek about what's coming up next week.

Monday, July 24



Tuesday, July 25



Wednesday, July 26



Thursday, July 27



Friday, July 28




Coming Next Week

I've got THREE reviews going up for some awesome books, two contemporary romances and one romantic suspense. My Top Ten Tuesday will feature Swoonworthy Leading Men and, of course, I'll have my weekly Waiting On and Book Beginning/Friday 56 posts.


What have you read this week? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Friday, July 28, 2017

Book Beginnings & Friday 56: Titanis: A Quiet Professionals Novella by Ronie Kendig

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading.

Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring Titanis: A Quiet Professionals Novella by Ronie Kendig.


Book Beginning

ViCross Yacht, Cape York, Australia

The territory of being a soldier came with being assaulted. By the enemy. But when one of your own did the betraying, it carved a cruel mark.


Friday 56 (56% on my Kindle)

"Who's next, Corporal Straider? You do know that I have men hunting down the princess."


About the Book

Never Again.
A vow written in the blood of the fallen is threatened in Australia’s rugged Top End.

Eamon “Titanis” Straider left the military and civilization behind after betrayal cost the life of a teammate. Living on this super yacht, the ViCross, Eamon reluctantly agrees to host an event for his parents, who are part of the Australian political machine. When an attractive woman arrives with his mother, Eamon is furious—and determined to find out what she is hiding.

Lady Ellis Rostov-Leclair has never felt so threatened as she does by the infamous “Beast of Cape York,” a man notorious for removing people—by force if necessary—from his yacht. His uncanny perception endangers not only her reason for being aboard the ship, but a secret she’s held for twenty years.

When the yacht is seized by a man with one goal: make those responsible for his brother’s death pay—the Beast of Cape York must live up to his name and protect those under his charge, or die trying.


What have you been reading lately? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Thursday, July 27, 2017

Review: A Name Unknown (Shadows Over England #1) by Roseanna M. White


Summary

Edwardian Romance and History Gains a Twist of Suspense

Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins that helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they concentrate on stealing high-value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. But when Rosemary must determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany, she is in for the challenge of a lifetime. How does one steal a family's history, their very name?

Peter Holstein, given his family's German blood, writes his popular series of adventure novels under a pen name. With European politics boiling and his own neighbors suspicious of him, Peter debates whether it might be best to change his name for good. When Rosemary shows up at his door pretending to be a historian and offering to help him trace his family history, his question might be answered.

But as the two work together and Rosemary sees his gracious reaction to his neighbors' scornful attacks, she wonders if her assignment is going down the wrong path. Is it too late to help him prove that he's more than his name?


My Review

Five Stars

I'm a big fan of Roseanna White's, having read and loved many of her books. I was so excited when I first heard about her new series. I couldn't wait to delve right into 'A Name Unknown'. And oh my goodness, was it good or what? I didn't think it was possible, but 'A Name Unknown' is her best book yet!

At the brink of World War I, Peter Holstein is constantly looked at with suspicion and is accused of espionage because of his last name, his German heritage. Even though he's an Englishman through and through, having lived in Cornwall his whole life, some people wish for him to go back to Germany. Rosemary Gresham, thief extraordinaire, is sent on a mission by the mysterious Mr. V to discover the loyalties of Peter Holstein, going undercover as a librarian to uncover the truth.

I instantly fell for Peter. He's such a lovable and utterly endearing guy. He's a gentleman in the truest sense of the word and just an all around good guy. The strength of his faith and the way he handles himself amidst such harsh judgments is truly admirable. I liked Rosemary despite the... unconventional way she supports herself and her family. I wasn't sure I would, but she's just doing the only thing she can think of to care for her loved ones. I was totally rooting for her.

This was a pretty big book, but it never dragged. It kept me engaged throughout the entirety of the story. It started out great and just kept getting better and better the further I got into it. I seriously can't recommend 'A Name Unknown' highly enough! Any lover of historical fiction is sure to be captivated by this wonderful novel. I cannot wait for the sequel 'A Song Unheard'. It's going to the top of my TBR list as soon as it's out!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.


To learn more about Roseanna M. White, visit her website,Facebook page, Twitter, and blog.

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday: The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights upcoming eagerly anticipated releases.

This week I'm featuring The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz releasing January 2018. 



Summary
When colonial Williamsburg explodes like a powder keg on the eve of the American Revolution, Lady Elisabeth "Liberty" Lawson is abandoned by her fiance and suspected of being a spy for the hated British. No one comes to her aid save the Patriot Noble Rynallt, a man with formidable enemies of his own. Liberty is left with a terrible choice. Will the Virginia belle turned lacemaker side with the radical revolutionaries, or stay true to her English roots? And at what cost?

Historical romance favorite Laura Frantz is back with a suspenseful story of love, betrayal, and new beginnings. With her meticulous eye for detail and her knack for creating living, breathing characters, Frantz continues to enchant historical fiction readers who long to feel they are a part of the story.


Why I need it
Laura Frantz's Ballantyne Legacy Series are still some of my favorite books of all time. So when there's anything new from her, I'm always eager to check it out!


What book are you eagerly anticipating? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Tuesday, July 25, 2017

Top Ten Tuesday: Cozy Mysteries I'm Dying to Read


Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and The Bookish.

The Broke and Bookish are taking a break until mid-August, so I thought I'd come up with my own topics until they return. This week I'm featuring Cozy Mysteries I'm Dying to Read.

by Nancy J. Parra


by Diane Vallere

by Julie Chase


by Ellery Adams


by Sharon Farrow


by Bailey Cates

by A.H. Gabhart


by Kathi Daley

by Bethany Blake

by Maia Chance

by Meera Lester

by Laura Morrigan

by Laura Bradford

by Krista Davis


by Jenny B. Jones


What are some cozy mysteries you're dying to read? What's your favorite cozy mystery? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Monday, July 24, 2017

Review: Love's Unfading Light (Eagle Harbor #1) by Naomi Rawlings


Summary

Tressa Danell is finished with men—from the wastrel who left her a widow, to the smelly trapper who keeps proposing, to the banker who wants to repossess her bakery. Every hour is spent working to pay off her late husband’s debt and keep a roof over her son’s head, though it’s doubtful she can do both for very long. But one thing’s certain—she’ll never be beholden to a man again.

Tired of living in a small town that blames him for actions his father committed ten years ago, Mac Oakton is scheduled to leave Eagle Harbor. So why does the pretty widow at the bakery keep tugging at his heart? He can’t get involved in her predicament when he’ll only be around for two more weeks.

But when Tressa’s burdens overwhelm her, they both face a decision. Can Mac set his own plans aside to help? And can Tressa accept his support if that means giving up her independence ... and being obligated to a man again?


My Review

4.5 Stars

Love's Unfading Light was a nice and refreshing read. From the very first paragraph, I was immediately drawn into the story.

Tressa's had it rough and doesn't ever want to have to rely on a man ever again. Her cheating husband died with many debts she needs to take care of. It seemed like things just kept getting worse and worse for her and I kept wondering how in the world everything would get sorted out. I was really rooting for Tressa. She's a very admirable, determined, and caring woman. Mac's a generous and kind hearted man. It was wonderful watching him connect with Collin, Tressa's son. And the first (and second) meeting between Mac and Tressa was... I'll just say... quite memorable! They had such great chemistry and I loved their interactions. I did get super mad with the way they were treated by some of the townsfolk. Both were judged terribly and unfairly for things they didn't do, wrongs committed by those who were close to them.

I had a fantastic time reading Love's Unfading Light and would highly recommend it to everyone who loves historical romance! I'm sure there are many more wonderful stories set in Eagle Harbor and I can't wait to read them! I'm already eager to “visit” Eagle Harbor again!


To learn more about Naomi Rawlings, visit her website and Facebook page.

Friday, July 21, 2017

Book Beginnings & Friday 56: Sprouts of Love: A Garden Grown Romance by Valerie Comer

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading.

Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring Sprouts of Love: Garden Grown Romance Book One by Valerie Comer.



Book Beginning

"You're Evelyn Felton?"

Whatever that was about. The man filling the entrance to Corinna's Cupboard couldn't be a minute over twenty-five, but that didn't stop him from acting like he owned the place. Eyebrows raised, he assessed her from steely blue eyes.


Friday 56 (56% on my Kindle)

Ben folded the paper around the photo and shoved both inside the envelope. "I don't know what to do with this."


What have you been reading lately? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Thursday, July 20, 2017

Review: In His Eyes by Stephenia H. McGee


Summary

Her heart sought shelter. Her soul found home.

Ella Whitaker rescues a newborn from the dying arms of a woman of ill repute and at long last she has someone to love. In need of a wet nurse, she arrives at Belmont Plantation just as Federal soldiers demand to speak to the owner. Thinking quickly, Ella masquerades as a Yankee officer's widow in order to have a roof over her head and a home for the child.

Major Westley Remington has dedicated his life to serving his country. The Civil War has divided his family, torn his thoughts of glory, and left him with a wound that may never heal. Westley returns home on medical furlough to settle his father’s estate at Belmont Plantation, only to find his home is being run by a fiery and independent woman—one many believe to be his wife. Now he is faced with a conflict he’s never been trained to fight, and one she has yet to conquer.


My Review

Five Stars

Oh, how I loved this novel! Civil War era books aren't usually a genre that I gravitate towards, but this year I've been venturing out and trying new things. I am so glad to have read 'In His Eyes'! It's such a gem! It's one of those books that I kept thinking about even when I'd have to set it aside and go do something else. It's one that, I know, will stay with me for a long time. I became completely immersed in the story. The writing was vivid and clear. It felt like I could perfectly picture life in 1865 Mississippi. It, also, brought to light some of the difficulties the south endured.

Ella had endured a lot and felt lacking in many ways, but she had an inner strength and growing faith that was so very admirable. Westley was quite sure of himself before his leg was injured in the war and then he had to reevaluate who he really was. My favorite character, though, was Sibby. She's a tough and strong woman, but so caring with a bit of a mystery surrounding her.

'In His Eyes' completely captivated me. It was the first book I've read by Stephenia H. McGee, but it surely won't be the last! I highly recommend this breathtaking historical romance to everyone!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.


To learn more about Stephenia H. McGee, visit her website and connect with her on Facebook and Twitter.

Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Review: The Road to Paradise: A Vintage National Parks Novel by Karen Barnett


Summary

An ideal sanctuary and a dream come true–that’s what Margaret Lane feels as she takes in God’s gorgeous handiwork in Mount Rainier National Park. It’s 1927 and the National Park Service is in its youth when Margie, an avid naturalist, lands a coveted position alongside the park rangers living and working in the unrivaled splendor of Mount Rainier’s long shadow.

But Chief Ranger Ford Brayden is still haunted by his father’s death on the mountain, and the ranger takes his work managing the park and its crowd of visitors seriously. The job of watching over an idealistic senator’s daughter with few practical survival skills seems a waste of resources.

When Margie’s former fiancé sets his mind on developing the Paradise Inn and its surroundings into a tourist playground, the plans might put more than the park’s pristine beauty in danger. What will Margie and Ford sacrifice to preserve the splendor and simplicity of the wilderness they both love?

Karen Barnett’s vintage national parks novels bring to vivid life President Theodore Roosevelt’s vision for protected lands, when he wrote in Outdoor Pastimes of an American Hunter: "There can be nothing in the world more beautiful than the Yosemite, the groves of the giant sequoias and redwoods, the Canyon of the Colorado, the Canyon of the Yellowstone, the Three Tetons; and our people should see to it that they are preserved for their children and their children's children forever, with their majestic beauty all unmarred."


My Review

4.5 Stars

First of all, how gorgeous is that cover? I'm not gonna lie, that's what first caught my attention about this book, but then I read the synopsis and I knew I just had to read it! There's been so much praise about this book and, I've gotta say, it's well warranted.

I loved learning about the early years of the National Park Service. I've never had the pleasure of visiting Mount Rainier National Park before, but I now feel like I have after reading this novel! The vivid descriptions captured my imagination so well that I felt I could perfectly picture the scenery and smell the scents of the forest. The author did such a great job capturing the beauty and essence of Mount Rainier that it felt like another character, not just the background scenery.

I so enjoyed reading about Margie's love of nature, of God's creation. Seeing the world through her eyes was a bright spot in this novel. Her optimism, despite everything, made her incredibly likable. Ford's a bit gruff at times, but I couldn't help liking him. He had so much pressure on him, which left him feeling quite inadequate. It was great watching both characters grow, experience new things, and conquer fears. The bad guy made my skin crawl. He was slimy and left me with an icky feeling whenever he'd show up on the page.

The Road to Paradise is one of those books to savor. I took my time with it, not rushing through it, but enjoying my time with Ford and Margie, enjoying my time in the National Park. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in this series. I'd recommend this book to fans of historical fiction and lovers of nature.

Favorite Quotes

“God led me to this place, Ranger Brayden. The beauty of His creation speaks of the Father's love. If I can get one person to see God at work in nature, my mission will be complete.”

“As soon as she stepped foot in Longmire, it's forests had wrapped around her like God's comforting arms, hiding her from the world.”

“Don't think because you're not a man you can't do anything you set your mind to do. You spoke truth - a fragile appearance can mask great strength.”


I received a copy of this book from Blogging for Books. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.


To learn more about Karen Barnett, visit her website, Facebook page, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Waiting on Wednesday: Oath of Honor by Lynette Eason

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights upcoming eagerly anticipated releases.

This week I'm featuring Oath of Honor by Lynette Eason releasing January 2, 2018.


Summary
Police officer Isabelle St. John loves her crazy, loud, law-enforcement family. With three brothers and two sisters, she's never without someone to hang out with--or fight with. And 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.

Determined to discover exactly what happened, Izzy's 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 handsome homicide detective brother Ryan 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?

With her signature fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat action, Lynette Eason invites readers into a captivating new series where justice is a family affair.

Why I Need It
You can never go wrong with a Lynette Eason suspense! I can't wait to start this new series!

What book are you waiting on? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Top Ten Tuesday: Books That Need to Be Movies (Part 2)


Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and The Bookish.

The Broke and Bookish are taking a break until mid-August, so I thought I'd come up with my own topic this week. I'm featuring Books That Need to Be Movies. Last week I featured Contemporary and Historical Novels that need to be movies. (You can find that list by clicking here.)

This week I'm featuring Paranormal/Fantasy/Dystopia Novels that need to be movies.

Paranormal/Fantasy/Dystopia

by Julie Hall

by Morgan L. Busse

by Jill Williamson
by Heather Blake

by A.G. Howard

by Bethany Griffin

by Lisa Shearin

by Devon Monk

by Maria V. Snyder

What books do you want to see made into movies?

Monday, July 17, 2017

Review: Tearing the Veil (The Uncloaked Trilogy Book 2) by J. Rodes


Summary

They trained us well. Power punctuated our every move, driving fear into the intended target. Who would stand against them?Braxton Luther, the sellout.

Now a part of the Den, he’s determined to make good on Eliza Knight’s faith in him—to be more than what he’d settled for when the Party had taken over. But his goal is dangerous, and not just for him. As he searches for a way to protect the silent, invisible victims of the new government, Braxton’s mission—which includes finding a way to rescue Eliza from the Reformation Camp—becomes even more complicated. Hannah Knight, Eliza’s sister, is simply too much like him
.
Tired of standing in her perfect sister’s shadow, Hannah determines to find her own place in the world. If that place is with the Pride—the girls’ home and training center provided by the Party—so be it. When she leaves the hopelessness of the cellar, that’s all she’s aiming for. But Quinn Sanger, the handsome son of a powerful political leader, finds her at the creek, and her life takes an unexpected and optimistic turn.

Braxton’s convinced Hannah’s in trouble. Hannah’s convinced Braxton, and all the Uncloaked, are insane. But when they peek behind the real veil the Party maintains, the truth is beyond what either had feared or hoped.

If everyone knew, it could change everything. They redefine their mission. It’s time to tear the veil.


My Review

Five Stars

The Uncloaked is one of the best dystopias I've read, so I've been super anxious for the sequel, Tearing the Veil. Let me tell ya, it did not disappoint. It was just as good, if not better than, the first.

Tearing the Veil is told from two points of view, Braxton Luther and Hannah Knight (Eliza's little sister). I really enjoyed having the different viewpoints. Hannah's unpredictable and impulsive, reminding me a lot of how Braxton was in the first book. Braxton's matured a lot and now sees the errors of his former ways. He's trying his best to do the right thing. The author has a real way with words making me feel a deep connection to the characters and their circumstances.

From the very beginning to the very end, danger seeped out of the pages and I had a feeling of dread in the pit of my stomach. I was anxious the whole way through. There were times when I'd have to set my Kindle aside for a minute, take some deep breaths, and calm down. The things The Party were doing made my blood boil. Their tactics, propaganda, show of force/power, reformation camps, etc. harkened back to Nazi Germany. Terrifying!

This series is so relevant to our world right now. If we stay silent, keep turning a blind eye to the injustices, to the evils, to the just plain wrong, I'm afraid the picture painted in these books could very well become our grim reality.

Tearing the Veil was an extremely thought-provoking novel that I HIGHLY recommend to everyone! Would I be brave enough to stand against such evil? I certainly hope so!

I received an e-ARC of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.


To learn more about J. Rodes, visit her website, Facebook page, and Twitter.

Friday, July 14, 2017

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: True to You by Becky Wade

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading.

Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring True to You (A Bradford Sisters Romance #1) by Becky Wade.



Book Beginning

Finding oneself at the mercy of a crazed gunman isn't all fun and games.


Friday 56  (56% on my Kindle)

She gave John a smile she did not feel in any corner of herself. "Hi, I'm Willow. Nora's sister."


About the Book

After a devastating heartbreak three years ago, genealogist and historical village owner Nora Bradford has decided that burying her nose in her work and her books is far safer than romance in the here and now.

Unlike Nora, former Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient John Lawson is a modern-day man, usually 100 percent focused on the present. But when he's diagnosed with an inherited condition, he's forced to dig into the secrets of his past and his adoption as an infant, enlisting Nora to help him uncover the identity of his birth mother.

The more time they spend together, the more this pair of opposites suspects they just might be a perfect match. However, John's already dating someone and Nora's not sure she's ready to trade her crushes on fictional heroes for the risks of a real relationship. Finding the answers they're seeking will test the limits of their identity, their faith, and their devotion to one another.  


What have you been reading lately? Leave a comment below and let me know.

Thursday, July 13, 2017

Review: Warfare (Life After #2) by Julie Hall


Summary

The battle is far from over.

When the lives of her loved ones are put in peril, who will Audrey turn to for help? On the surface, Audrey's existence in the afterlife is coming together. Her quirky new mentor guides her on the path to becoming the demon hunter she always hoped. She has great friends and even a kinda-sorta-maybe new boyfriend. But if things are so wonderful, why is Logan never far from her thoughts?

After learning that her family is the target of an unprecedented demonic siege Audrey puts all she’s gained in jeopardy by defying heavenly authorities and returning to Earth. Stranded at the place she once called home with the one person she's been desperate to forget, she'll face vicious monsters, betrayers, and a legion of demons with an insidious weapon that even her celestial sword can't defeat.

Will Audrey’s mistakes in the afterlife be what destroys the lives of the ones she loves the most?


My Review

Five Stars

Warfare is the sequel to Huntress, so if you haven't read the first book, drop everything and grab a copy! You won't be disappointed. Huntress was an amazing read, so I've been super excited to get to Warfare. I've gotta say, it was just as good as Huntress and... dare I say it?... maybe even a little better... It seemed to have more of everything, as crazy as that sounds. More action, more intrigue, more danger, more fight scenes, more spiritual growth, more romance, more humor. And as with the first book, I was completely and totally drawn into it's sequel. Everything else disappeared except for this book, this world, these characters.

When Audrey's family is targeted by an unprecedented level of demon attacks, she will do anything, defy authority and friends, to help them. I completely felt Audrey's panic and fear for her family, but, my goodness, she is so stubborn! There were quite a few times I wanted to reach through the book and shake some sense into her! But I could definitely see how much she's grown from the previous book. More of Logan's past was revealed, which explained a lot about why he acted the way he did. One of my favorite characters in Warfare had to be Audrey's new mentor, Hugo. He's warm and inviting and kind, but with an unwavering air of authority about him. I really enjoyed all of his sage advice and wisdom.

There were some shocking twists and turns and reveals, some where I thought my jaw was gonna hit the floor. There was, also, a great lesson about putting all your faith and trust in God and not yourself. One of my favorite aspects of this series is the friendships. Even though they were tested quite a bit in Warfare, they were genuine and real, so great to read about.

Warfare was a fantastic book that I had a hard time putting down. And that ending... oh my!... Book three can't come out soon enough!

Memorable Quotes:

“He never leaves us or forsakes us. His Spirit goes with us, Audrey, and if we are sensitive to His presence, we’ll hear what we need to hear.”

“God can do amazing things, even with faith the size of a mustard seed.”

“...though your path may seem hard at times, it brings the greatest reward. Some may choose to take what appears to be the easy way, but in the end they’ve only hurt themselves. The Father cares for you deeply, and although you will face challenges, it is in the furnace that your character will be refined.”

“No matter what happens, remember the Father works all things to good. Never forget that.”


For more information on Julie Hall, visit her website, Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram.

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Waiting on Wednesday: Troubled Waters by Susan May Warren

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights upcoming eagerly anticipated releases.

This week I'm featuring Troubled Waters (Montana Rescue #4) by Susan May Warren releasing January 2, 2018.


Summary
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, s...till 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.

Why I need it:
Finally Ian and Sierra's story! I can't wait to see how this turns out... and they're stranded on a deserted island? I'm so excited to read this!


What book are you waiting on? Leave a comment below and let me know.