Tuesday, July 30, 2019

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Rescue (All Roads Lead to Texas Book 1) by Tanya Eavenson

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Rescue (All Roads Lead to Texas Book 1) by Tanya Eavenson releasing September 2.

About the Book
Sometimes the path to freedom is found in an unexpected future.

Upon the death of her mother, Rosalind Standford’s life shatters, the pieces scattering to the wind when she is forced into a betrothal to a cunning banker. But when a telegram arrives announcing the man who captured her heart is on a train to Boston, Rosalind must hide her true feelings before the thin cord of her existence unravels the deadly secrets she keeps.

Cowboy Trent Easton returns to his roots in Boston society to find his childhood friend, the love of his heart. Instead he finds a broken woman engaged to a man close to her father’s age. Though she once rejected him, when Trent learns she’s in danger, he determines to do whatever it takes to keep her safe—even taking her to the altar in the black of night. But will his name and the remote wilds of his Texas ranch be enough to protect her? Or will freedom cost them their lives?

Why I Need It
First of all, how gorgeous is that cover? Love it! I'm a big fan of this author. I've read and enjoyed all of her previous books and am so excited to check out her first historical fiction! It sounds like an exciting and romantic read.

What upcoming release are you excited about?

Mini Review: Up from the Sea (Whose Waves These Are 0.5) by Amanda Dykes

About the Book
Deep in a New England forest, an ancient tree stands at the center of a tale passed down through the generations. So much so, that the residents of Ansel-by-the-Sea, Maine, no longer know what is truth and what is fable. A woman fleeing in the night, rumors of treason, revolution, retribution . . .

When Savannah Mae Thorpe, born and raised near the golden sands of the South, arrives with a version of the story unlike any heard before, she finds herself the unlikely leader of an expedition into the woods to discover the truth. With help from local lumberjack Alastair Bliss, who holds a shadowed past of his own, her search to discover the truth of the Atonement Tree may have unexpected ramifications on her life--and the lives of those around her.

A tale of origins, this novella is a story complete on its own but also an invitation to discover the legacy that came before the story of Robert Bliss, the fisherman-poet who changed the tide of a nation with his unsuspecting words in Amanda's full-length novel, Whose Waves These Are.

Available as a free e-novella

My Thoughts

I've been hearing how amazing Whose Waves These Are is, so I thought I'd give the free prequel novella a try. Wow, what a breathtakingly beautiful story! You can be sure that the full length book has moved up on my wishlist! I was swept away to the past and didn't want to leave. The vivid descriptions and lyrical prose brought this story to life. I can't recommend it highly enough!

Favorite Quote
Lord, you created the dark just as you created the light. Help me find life there, and not fear.

Five Stars

Monday, July 29, 2019

Review: Tate (The Montana Marshalls #2) by Susan May Warren

About the Book
What will it cost this bodyguard to save the woman he loves?

*Susie writes a delightful story! - NYT bestselling author Dee Henderson.*

Susan May Warren is the USA Today best-selling, Christy and RITA award-winning novelist of over 65 novels, including the best-selling Montana Rescue and Montana Fire series.

Bodyguard Tate Marshall, has always been the family troublemaker

Maybe it’s his propensity to get entangled in other people’s problems. Now, he’s in over his head because he’s desperately in love with the woman he’s tasked to protect, the beautiful Gloria, “Glo” Jackson, daughter of US Senator and presidential hopeful Reba Jackson. A member of the country band, the Yankee Belles, Glo was targeted in a recent terrorist attack designed to deter her mother from running, and Tate will do anything to keep her safe. Even if it means letting her go.

Country music artist Glo Jackson isn’t afraid of trouble…

Stubborn and brave, Glo isn’t about to hide from threats, at least the kind that won’t cost her heart. She’s already paid a terrible price for the war on terror, and she refuses to fall for a man who might die, especially because of her. Better to keep him away, even if it means sacrificing her heart.

But when danger threatens them both, what will they sacrifice to keep each other safe?

As the presidential campaign heats up and the threats deepen, so does the attraction between Tate and Glo. But what will it cost Tate to keep her alive? And what will Glo do to keep from losing another man she loves?

The gripping second installment of the Montana Marshalls series.


My Thoughts

Tate is book two in the Montana Marshalls series and picks up right where Knox left off. I'd definitely recommend starting with book one. They're both so interconnected, I wouldn't want you to be lost if you start here.

This story focuses on Tate, the troublemaking brother in the family, and Glo, a member of the country band the Yankee Belles. I'll go ahead and admit it. Glo wasn't my favorite person. I thought maybe, eventually, she'd grow on me, but that just wasn't the case. She was so flighty and flip-floppy with Tate. She had her reasons, but that shouldn't excuse her behavior, the way she was almost toying with him. It made for a frustrating read, at times. And, I feel bad for saying this, but in the end, I wasn't completely convinced that they were right for each other.

While this wasn't my favorite Susan May Warren book, it was still enjoyable. There was lots of suspense and a great spiritual message. Plus, I really enjoyed the secondary story featuring Ford (Tate's Navy Seal brother) and his love interest Scarlett. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book for more of them! And to discover more about the situation with Ford's twin sister, Ruby Jane.

Favorite Quote:
"When you show up with nothing and discover that you’re loved because of who you are—that’s when you realize what it means to be a son of God. That’s when you discover that you’ve inherited more than you could possibly imagine. It’s pretty breathtaking.” He grinned. “Sort of like free-falling, knowing that your chute is going to catch you.”
Three Stars

Thursday, July 25, 2019

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: The Secrets of Paper and Ink by Lindsay Harrel

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.


About the Book

Review: Margin of Error (Fog Lake Mysteries #2) by Christy Barritt

About the Book
Some secrets have deadly consequences.

Brynlee Parker thought her biggest challenge would be hiking to Dead Man’s Bluff and fulfilling her dad’s last wishes. She never thought she’d witness two men being viciously murdered while on a mountainous trail. Even worse, the deadly predator is now hunting her.

Boone Wilder wants nothing to do with Dead Man’s Bluff, not after his wife died there. But he can’t seem to mind his own business when a mysterious out-of-towner burst into his camp store in a frenzied panic. Something—or someone—deadly is out there.

The killer’s hunger for blood seems to be growing at a brutal pace. Can Brynlee and Boone figure out who’s behind these murders? Or will the hurts and secrets from their past not allow for even a margin of error?


My Thoughts

Margin of Error is another fast paced and suspenseful read from Christy Barritt. You can always count on her to deliver a compelling and unputdownable story. This is the second book in the Fog Lake Mysteries series, but you don't have to read the first one to enjoy it. It stands on it's own perfectly fine.

On a hiking trip in memory of her dad, Brynlee witnesses something terrible. A beast mauls two men. A beast with claws and a human face. Local police are convinced it was a bear, but Brynlee knows what she saw. Plus, ever since she witnessed the attack, she's been stalked by that same beast-like creature.

The intrigue and action start right at the beginning, keeping me glued to the pages and making it almost impossible to set aside until I reached the thrilling conclusion. If you're a fan of romantic suspense, don't hesitate to pick up a copy! I can't recommend it enough!

Four Stars

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

Can't Wait Wednesday: Vow of Justice (Blue Justice #4) by Lynette Eason

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Vow of Justice (Blue Justice #4) by Lynette Eason releasing August 6.

About the Book
FBI Special Agent Lincoln St. John is living his own personal nightmare. When the woman he loves, Allison Radcliffe, is killed, he devotes his life to tracking down the killers and making them pay for their crimes. He expected it to be a challenge. What he never expected was to find Allison very much alive shortly after her "murder." As his anger and hurt mix with relief, Linc isn't sure how he's supposed to feel. One thing he does know for sure: he and Allison will have to work together to stop a killer before she dies a second time--this time for good.

Bestselling and award-winning author Lynette Eason closes out her Blue Justice series with a story that will have you tearing through the pages to get to the stunning conclusion.

Why I Need It
I've loved this series about the St. John family and am sad to see it end, but am so excited to finally get Linc's story! It sounds like a thrilling read! The woman he loves comes back from the dead? Yeah, I can't wait!

What upcoming release are you excited about?

Review: New York (Daughter of Babylon #2) by Jamie Lee Grey

About the Book
Raging infernos. Widespread destruction. Nuclear disaster. And that’s just the first weekend.

As the United States reels from a devastating attack on California, terrorists move ahead with their next strike to trigger the American apocalypse. New York is ground zero.

Katie and Zach, who spent Saturday fleeing the fires, now spend Sunday running from the feds. And trying to figure out why they’re the target of a massive manhunt.

Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., Basilia and Alana struggle to protect the country from utter devastation.

Is the worst finally over? Or is it just getting started?

NEW YORK is the second book in the apocalyptic thriller Daughter of Babylon series.


My Thoughts

This book picks up pretty much right where the last one left off. It's just as fast paced and had me just as engrossed.

Katie and Zach are still on the run, but this time instead of fleeing the raging fires, it's the feds they're trying to evade. They're falsely accused of a horrendous crime, but with a nationwide manhunt underway, is there any chance of them escaping?

I'm completely invested in these characters and am so eager to find out what happens to them next!

Four Stars

Monday, July 22, 2019

Review: California (Daughter of Babylon #1) by Jamie Lee Grey

About the Book
Flames will destroy. Planes will fall from the sky. Bombs will detonate. And that’s just the first day.

Katie and Zach Nelson are looking forward to celebrating their anniversary with a relaxing camping trip on the California coast. But terrorists have other plans for the weekend. Like torching the place.

When Katie and Zach scramble to evacuate, they’re snared in all kinds of trouble. Soon, they’re running for their lives.

Meanwhile, Basilia Hernandez and Alana Mills, the new president and vice president of the United States, face one shocking turn of events after another. Do they have what it takes to protect and defend the country during the apocalypse? Or will they actually make it worse?

CALIFORNIA is the first book in the thrilling post-apocalyptic series Daughter of Babylon. Begin the adventure today!

Like all novels by Jamie Lee Grey, the Daughter of Babylon series is a faith-based, clean read.  


My Thoughts

Hundreds of intentionally set wildfires are raging all across the state of California threatening communities and millions of people in this terrifyingly realistic apocalyptic thriller.

Katie and Zach are a normal couple on a camping trip with their young son and dog when the fires start. Sensing the impending danger, they evacuate. What follows is a mad dash race against time. It's pure chaos and I couldn't read it fast enough.

There were times when I forgot that I was reading a book. It all felt very real, like I was actually living through everything that was going on. It really made me stop and wonder what my response would be in a situation like this. I'd recommend this book to fans of Christian apocalyptic fiction. Now, I'm off to start the next book.

Four Stars

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Tate (The Montana Marshalls #2) by Susan May Warren

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 sharing the second book in The Montana Marshall series, Tate by Susan May Warren.

About the Book
What will it cost this bodyguard to save the woman he loves?

*Susie writes a delightful story! - NYT bestselling author Dee Henderson.*

Susan May Warren is the USA Today best-selling, Christy and RITA award-winning novelist of over 65 novels, including the best-selling Montana Rescue and Montana Fire series.

Bodyguard Tate Marshall, has always been the family troublemaker

Maybe it’s his propensity to get entangled in other people’s problems. Now, he’s in over his head because he’s desperately in love with the woman he’s tasked to protect, the beautiful Gloria, “Glo” Jackson, daughter of US Senator and presidential hopeful Reba Jackson. A member of the country band, the Yankee Belles, Glo was targeted in a recent terrorist attack designed to deter her mother from running, and Tate will do anything to keep her safe. Even if it means letting her go.

Country music artist Glo Jackson isn’t afraid of trouble…

Stubborn and brave, Glo isn’t about to hide from threats, at least the kind that won’t cost her heart. She’s already paid a terrible price for the war on terror, and she refuses to fall for a man who might die, especially because of her. Better to keep him away, even if it means sacrificing her heart.

But when danger threatens them both, what will they sacrifice to keep each other safe?

As the presidential campaign heats up and the threats deepen, so does the attraction between Tate and Glo. But what will it cost Tate to keep her alive? And what will Glo do to keep from losing another man she loves?

The gripping second installment of the Montana Marshalls series.


Book Beginning
Some guys had all the luck.

Friday 56
If Axel's hands hadn't been full, no doubt he would have taken a swing at Ford. But he kicked the door open, stalked out to the porch, and threw Scarlett's belongings into the yard.

 What have you been reading lately?

Review: Outbreak by Davis Bunn

About the Book
The waters off the West African coast are a menacing red, full of algae thick enough to stand on in places. In nearby villages, mysterious deaths start to occur--and the panic mounts. But before an alarm can be sounded, the sea currents shift, the algae vanishes, and the deaths stop. Everyone is relieved when things return to normal, and local government officials are happy to sweep the publicity nightmare under a rug.

An American biological researcher, Avery Madison, is dispatched by his employer to piece together exactly what happened, having long feared an ecological disaster just like this could occur. He's had little evidence to go on before now, and what he finds in West Africa is rapidly disappearing. But Avery knows the danger hasn't disappeared--it has just moved on.

When parts of the Caribbean start turning a familiar red right before hurricane season kicks into high gear, the implications are clear. If Avery and his colleagues can't convince the world of what's about to happen, toxic destruction could be loosed on American soil. Will their efforts prove too late?


My Thoughts

Featuring an intriguing mystery and a fast-paced race to figure out what's causing an epidemic that could have worldwide, devastating consequences, Outbreak kept me glued to the pages until the last word.

I will say that I was a little confused here and there, and felt like I had missed something. I never felt much of a connection to any of the characters either. But, overall, it was good story that I read really quickly. I was completely invested in finding out what was causing the “outbreak”. And I was left wondering if something like this is happening, or even has happened, and we just don't know about it.

The ending was a little more open-ended than I usually prefer, so I have my fingers crossed for a sequel.

Three Stars

Tuesday, July 16, 2019

Can't Wait Wednesday: Legacy Rejected (The Legacy Series Book 1) by Robin Patchen

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Legacy Rejected (The Legacy Series Book 1) by Robin Patchen releasing July 23.

About the Book
All she wants is a home, but there is no safe haven when mobsters are after you.

Realtor Ginny Lamont's family has abandoned her, leaving her with nothing but a warning that she’s in danger. But Ginny's built a home in New Hampshire. After a childhood of nomadic living, she’s not running again, certainly not because of some nameless, baseless threat.

Real estate developer Kade Powers is thrilled to go out with Nutfield’s beautiful new real estate agent. But the prowler they surprise after their first date offers a glimpse into Ginny's past and the legacy of lies her parents left her with. She brings a mystery, one he’s determined to help her solve.

With Kade’s help, Ginny searches for the truth of her parents’ criminal activity while her enemies close in. When the mobsters show up in her quaint New England town, will she find a way to bring them down, or will she lose the life—and the man—she’s come to love?

Legacy Rejected is the first book in a new Christian romantic suspense series. If you like romance coupled with page-turning suspense that’ll keep you reading late into the night, you’ll love Legacy Rejected. Buy it now.


Why I Need It
I devoured the Beauty in Flight series by this author a few months ago and have been wondering what her next release would be. Legacy Rejected sounds like just the type of romantic suspense I can't get enough of! I'm so excited to dive in!


What upcoming release are you excited about?

Release Day Review: The String (Deadly Games #1) by Caleb Breakey

About the Book
Welcome to the string, a game of impossible decisions and deadly consequences. Let's go over the ground rules.

Rule #1: Participation is mandatory.
Rule #2: If anyone refuses to play, all threats will come to pass.
Game on.

Get ready for a deadly social experiment as a sociopath known as The Conductor delivers disturbing threats and twisted moral dilemmas to unsuspecting students and staff.

As a powerful instinct for self-preservation sweeps through the campus, one man has a grave decision to make. Will university cop Markus Haas play the game to protect those he loves? Or will he break the string and incite massive chaos--and even death?

In the great suspense tradition of Ted Dekker and Steven James, Caleb Breakey's explosive debut novel will have you turning pages into the night.


My Thoughts

Chilling and utterly compelling.

The Conductor was a truly disturbed individual, a madman who blackmails others into doing reprehensible things in a sick game he calls “the string”. It took me a few chapters to really get into, but it wasn't long before I was sailing through the pages, completely sucked in, and not wanting to put it down.

My heart was constantly racing and my anxiety was high. Time moved by without me noticing and there came a point where I couldn't stop for anything. I simply had to ignore “real life” things in order to finish this pulse-pounding read.

The String was an unpredictable and masterful thriller from author Caleb Breakey. It'll make the reader ponder what they'd do if they were put into a situation like this. I highly recommend it and can't wait to see what comes next! 

I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

Five Stars

Thursday, July 11, 2019

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Outbreak by Davis Bunn

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 sharing Outbreak by Davis Bunn.

About the Book
The waters off the West African coast are a menacing red, full of algae thick enough to stand on in places. In nearby villages, mysterious deaths start to occur--and the panic mounts. But before an alarm can be sounded, the sea currents shift, the algae vanishes, and the deaths stop. Everyone is relieved when things return to normal, and local government officials are happy to sweep the publicity nightmare under a rug.

An American biological researcher, Avery Madison, is dispatched by his employer to piece together exactly what happened, having long feared an ecological disaster just like this could occur. He's had little evidence to go on before now, and what he finds in West Africa is rapidly disappearing. But Avery knows the danger hasn't disappeared--it has just moved on.

When parts of the Caribbean start turning a familiar red right before hurricane season kicks into high gear, the implications are clear. If Avery and his colleagues can't convince the world of what's about to happen, toxic destruction could be loosed on American soil. Will their efforts prove too late?

Book Beginning
Avery Madison was awakened at eleven minutes past midnight by a most unexpected phone call.

Friday 56
She had been to Africa. She had seen what was happening there. They had not. And nothing that was decided now, in this hour, would change the worth of her experiences.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Beast of Talesend: After Beauty and the Beast (Beaumont and Beasley Book 1) by Kyle Robert Shultz

About the Book
Tale as old as time, song as old as rhyme…

...Disney got it wrong.

My name is Nick Beasley. I’m the one they call when things go bump in the night...because I can always prove that there’s actually nothing to worry about. After all, magic and monsters aren’t real.

At least, that’s what I’ve been telling people for a long time. But now that I’ve been magically transformed into a big hairy monster, I’m not sure they’re going to believe me.

And no, a kiss won’t help. The only person who may be able to fix me is the enchantress who did this to me in the first place.

She says it was an accident, but I’m not sure I can trust her. Why would the Beast Curse randomly crop up again after hundreds of years?

And if it wasn’t an accident, what might the person responsible do next?

I have to protect the city of Talesend from the monsters in the shadows...even if one of the monsters is me.

Disney meets Dresden (with a pinch of Discworld) in this 1920’s urban fantasy. Don’t miss out on the series fans are raving about.

Available in Kindle Unlimited

My Thoughts

The Beast of Talesend was an all-around good time. It's such a fresh and clever twist on the classic fairy tale.

Taking place almost two thousand years after “ever after”, most people have stopped believing in magic. They don't believe that the fairy tales ever actually happened. Foremost of them all is private investigator Nick Beasley who's famous for debunking anything that could be remotely construed as magic. He doesn't believe in all that nonsense... well... that is until he's turned into a beast himself. What follows is a witty and wild adventure that I didn't want to end.

With a cast full of charmingly quirky characters, spectacular world building, and many laugh out loud moments, The Beast of Talesend is a must read for anyone who enjoys fairy tale retellings. I highly recommend it!


My favorite quote:
It took me a surprisingly long time the following morning to figure out that I’d turned into a monster. In my defense, I’m generally not sure what my own name is when I first wake up in the morning, let alone what species I am.

4.5 Stars

Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Can't Wait Wednesday: Fledgling (Sorcery and Society #2) by Molly Harper

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Fledgling (Sorcery and Society #2) by Molly Harper releasing July 23.

About the Book
Days away from completing her first year at Miss Castwell’s Institute for the Magical Instruction of Young Ladies, Changeling-born Sarah Smith might just get away with posing as an upper-class Guardian girl named Cassandra Reed.

But strange visions of a Lightbourne destroyed by Miss Morton’s revenant army keep Sarah from enjoying her achievement. Plus, the Mother Book, Sarah’s one secret advantage and the ultimate entrée in Guardian society, suddenly stops revealing itself to her…putting her in a precarious position with the Guild. On top of all that, her former lady’s maid left Miss Castwell’s, and the new hire is, well, taking some getting used to.

If it weren’t for her two best friends, Alicia McCray and Ivy Cowel, who will do anything to protect her secret, Sarah doesn’t know if she’ll make it another year. When the three girls take summer holiday with Alicia’s family (chaperoned by an exacting and very disapproving Mrs. McCray), a relaxing vacation in Scotland is the last thing they’ll find.

Mrs. Winter is thrilled that Sarah is spending time with the influential McCray family, but Sarah can’t help but feel that her real purpose is to find other Changeling children like her, and free them to realize their own magic. Can she find genuine satisfaction in her accomplishments when she knows there are others like her out there who need her help? Will the three girls uncover the deeply-held secrets they’re looking for in the mysterious mountains of Scotland? Will the Mother Book finally start talking to her again? And will Sarah come to understand the importance of her connection with Ivy and Alicia, and the true nature of her own power…before it’s too late?

Why I Need It
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so when I saw this one go up on Amazon for preorder I got super excited. I can't wait to see what craziness befalls these characters this time!

What upcoming release are you excited about?

Review: Brett, Billionaire Bodyguard: Sweet, Clean Christian Romance with Suspense (Billionaire Protectors Book 1) by Alexa Verde and Autumn Macarthur

About the Book
Billionaire protectors. They'll risk their lives to protect a woman in danger. But will they risk their hearts?

When his stepbrother disappears and his niece and nephew are in danger, billionaire security expert Brett Jarvis doesn’t hesitate. His responsibility is keep the twins safe. Even when they come as a package deal with their pretty, faith-filled nanny. Being forced to spend more time with her convinces him he’s not the man for her. She’s a forever kind of girl, and he can’t offer her that.

Ashley Lamott won’t leave the children she cares for when their lives are threatened. But that means going on the run with their uncle. Surely she can deal with her attraction to the man she’s spent the past year avoiding. In her experience, men don’t stay around, especially men like Brett. The last thing she wants is to fall for him.

But as the danger escalates, she sees beyond Brett’s bad-boy reputation to the man he really is. And more, the man he could become, if he’ll surrender his painful past to God. Can they not only keep the children and Brett's brother safe, but let faith and love heal their wounded hearts?

Book 1 Brett, Billionaire Bodyguard
Book 2 Colt, Billionaire Reunion
Book 3 David, Billionaire Cowboy
Billionaire Protectors series. Not your ordinary billionaires!


Available in Kindle Unlimited


My Thoughts

This was a great story featuring a sweet romance and edge of your seat suspense. I was pulled in right from the start, intrigued by the mysterious phone call and then the disappearance of Brett's stepbrother Colt.

With danger swirling and Colt missing, Brett makes it his mission to keep his niece, nephew, and their nanny safe. Brett and Ashley couldn't be more different, but there's an undeniable attraction between them. Something keeps pulling them together. Could they be each others perfect match despite it all?

This book was a breath of fresh air. A soul-lifting read. The perfect combination of romance and suspense with an inspirational message. There were some shocking revelations, twists and turns, and so many suspects – each with a strong motive. When it came time for the reveal, I was shocked. I never would've guessed it. I love when I can be surprised like that.

Autumn Macarthur and Alexa Verde are an author collaboration I'm so excited to see more from. I can't wait for the next book in the series!

Five Stars

Monday, July 8, 2019

Review: The Electrical Menagerie (The Celestial Isles #1) by Mollie E. Reeder

About the Book
The Electrical Menagerie, one-of-a-kind robotic roadshow, is bankrupt.

Sylvester Carthage, illusionist and engineer, has the eccentric imagination the Menagerie needs to succeed creatively -- but none of the people skills. Fast-talking Arbrook Huxley, meanwhile, has all the savvy the Menagerie needs to succeed commercially -- but none of the scruples.

To save their show, Carthage & Huxley risk everything in a royal talent competition, vying for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform for the Future Celestial Queen. In this stardust-and-spark-powered empire of floating islands and flying trains, The Electrical Menagerie's bid at fame and fortune means weathering the glamorous and cutthroat world of critics, high society, and rival magicians -- but with real conspiracy lurking beneath tabloid controversy, there's more at stake in this contest than the prize.

Behind the glittery haze of flash paper and mirrors, every competitor has something to hide... and it's the lies Carthage & Huxley tell each other that may cost them everything.


My Thoughts

What a wondrous and fantastical read! The Electrical Menagerie is one of the best books I've read, not just this year, but, like, ever. It's definitely got a spot on my favorites shelf and is a book I'm gonna want to reread over and over again.

It was so incredibly good, so imaginative. I'm kinda left speechless, having no idea what I can say that would possibly do it justice. It's one of those books that I just want to shove at people and yell (in the friendliest way), “READ THIS BOOK NOW!”

There was a part of me that wanted to read it as fast as possible, to devour it. But I made myself slow down and savor it. I loved every single second of it. It's as close to perfect as a book can get. If I could give it more than five stars, I certainly would.

With an almost lyrical-like writing style and many profoundly poignant moments, I'll be thinking about it for a long time to come. I highly recommend The Electrical Menagerie to everyone!

Five Stars

Saturday, July 6, 2019

Curse and Consequence Blog Tour: Book Spotlight




I'm excited to share Curse and Consequence with y'all today! This book sounds so good! And how gorgeous is that cover?


About the Book
When Love visits Ravenhead Hall, sparks fly…quite literally.

Miss Rea Abernathy only wants to honor the family who has taken her under their wing, rescuing her from a life of poverty. But thanks to two determined suitors, she finds herself in a state far worse than the one from which her benefactress saved her.

When Mr. Sedgwick Whitby sets his sights on his mother’s sweet-tempered pig keeper, his orderly life is thrown into chaos: Rea’s station is less–than-desirable, and another gentleman may be pursuing her. Hoping to get his annoyingly charming twin brother out of the way, Sedgwick purchases a simple curse from a disreputable faery which consequently plunges them all into a misfortune far more serious than troubles of the heart.

With time running out to break the curse and tempers flying high, can Sedgwick and Rea set things right and find love after all? Jane Austen meets dragons in this frolicking fantasy romance about a comely pig keeper, two wealthy gentlemen, and the curse binding them all together.

Perfect for fans of Diana Wynne Jones and Gail Carson Levine.

 

About the Author



Savannah Jezowski lives in Amish country with her Knight in Shining Armor and a wee warrior princess. She is the founder of Dragonpen Designs and Dragonpen Press, which offers author services such as cover design, developmental edits, and interior formatting. Her debut novella “Wither” is featured in Five Enchanted Roses, an anthology of Beauty and the Beast, and is a prequel to The Neverway Chronicles, a Christian fantasy series filled with tragic heroes and the living dead. She is also the author of When Ravens Fall, a Norse Beauty and the Beast retelling. She is featured in several Fellowship of Fantasy anthologies, including Mythical Doorways, Tales of Ever After, and Paws, Claws, and Magic Tales. When she isn’t writing, Savannah likes to read books, watch BBC miniseries, and play with cover design. She also enjoys having tea with her imaginary friends.

 

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, June 1st
Tuesday, July 2nd
Wednesday, July 3rd
Thursday, July 4th
Friday, July 5th
Saturday, July 6th
Sunday, July 7th 

Thursday, July 4, 2019

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Storm Rising (Book of the Wars #1) 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 Storm Rising (Book of the Wars #1) by Ronie Kendig. It just released July 2nd. I've already read it and loved it so much that I just had to share it today.

About the Book
Mentioned in the pages of the Septuagint but lost to history, the Book of the Wars has resurfaced, and its pages hold secrets--and dangers--never before seen on earth.

Tasked with capturing the ancient text, former Navy SEAL Leif Metcalfe is finally given command of his own team. But their best efforts are ruined when a notorious Bulgarian operative known as "Viorica" snatches the volume right out from under them.

Iskra "Viorica" Todorova is determined to use the book to secure the thing that matters most--freedom. But a series of strange storms erupts around the globe and the coming dangers foretold in the text threaten crops, lives--entire nations. Though both are haunted by secrets of the past and neither trusts the other, Leif and Iskra must form an uneasy alliance to thwart impending disaster. However, the truth hidden in two-thousand-year-old words could unleash the storm of their own destruction.

Book Beginning
UNDISCLOSED LOCATION NEAR CUBA
He'd never killed a woman in cold blood before, but now was as good a time as any.

Friday 56
Maintaining her cool façade was impossible with Metcalfe and his seeming ability to read her mind, though she knew he was just a very shrewd operative who could read a situation. Read her. "Nobody forces me to do anything."

What have you been reading lately?

Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Can't Wait Wednesday: Tate (The Montana Marshalls #2) by Susan May Warren

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Tate (The Montana Marshalls #2) by Susan May Warren releasing July 9.

About the Book
“He was sent here to kill you, wasn’t he?” Glo’s voice emerged in a whisper of horror.

Tate drew in a breath, and even Knox looked away as Tate nodded.

Oh, she knew it. Apparently, she had a type.

The kind of men who didn’t care what trouble—or death—might be waiting for them. Who turned their face to it and charged ahead.

The kind of men who died for what they believed in.

 The kind of men who would break her heart.

What will it cost this bodyguard to save the woman he loves?

*Susie writes a delightful story! - NYT bestselling author Dee Henderson.*

Susan May Warren is the USA Today best-selling, Christy and RITA award-winning novelist of over 65 novels, including the best-selling Montana Rescue and Montana Fire series.

Bodyguard Tate Marshall, has always been the family troublemaker

Maybe it’s his propensity to get entangled in other people’s problems. Now, he’s in over his head because he’s desperately in love with the woman he’s tasked to protect, the beautiful Gloria, “Glo” Jackson, daughter of US Senator and presidential hopeful Reba Jackson. A member of the country band, the Yankee Belles, Glo was targeted in a recent terrorist attack designed to deter her mother from running, and Tate will do anything to keep her safe. Even if it means letting her go.

Country music artist Glo Jackson isn’t afraid of trouble…

Stubborn and brave, Glo isn’t about to hide from threats, at least the kind that won’t cost her heart. She’s already paid a terrible price for the war on terror, and she refuses to fall for a man who might die, especially because of her. Better to keep him away, even if it means sacrificing her heart.

But when danger threatens them both, what will they sacrifice to keep each other safe?

As the presidential campaign heats up and the threats deepen, so does the attraction between Tate and Glo. But what will it cost Tate to keep her alive? And what will Glo do to keep from losing another man she loves?


Why I Need It
I didn't even read what this was about before I hit that preorder button. I loved Knox, the first book in this series, and am so eager to spend more time with the Marshall family. To get to know the rest of the siblings better. So excited!

What upcoming release are you excited about?

Release Day Review: Storm Rising (Book of the Wars #1) by Ronie Kendig

About the Book
Mentioned in the pages of the Septuagint but lost to history, the Book of the Wars has resurfaced, and its pages hold secrets--and dangers--never before seen on earth.

Tasked with capturing the ancient text, former Navy SEAL Leif Metcalfe is finally given command of his own team. But their best efforts are ruined when a notorious Bulgarian operative known as "Viorica" snatches the volume right out from under them.

Iskra "Viorica" Todorova is determined to use the book to secure the thing that matters most--freedom. But a series of strange storms erupts around the globe and the coming dangers foretold in the text threaten crops, lives--entire nations. Though both are haunted by secrets of the past and neither trusts the other, Leif and Iskra must form an uneasy alliance to thwart impending disaster. However, the truth hidden in two-thousand-year-old words could unleash the storm of their own destruction.


My Thoughts

OH MY GOODNESS! What an epic adventure! I've been sitting here for awhile trying to find the right words to describe the sheer awesomeness that was this book. I'll never be able to do it justice, but I'll try.

Intense and action-packed, Storm Rising was an exciting, heart-pounding, nonstop thrill ride that never slowed down. It's Kendig at her finest. I'm probably sounding like a broken record by now because I say this with every new book from her, but she's really outdone herself this time. How does she keep doing it? If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. It's just that good.

I couldn't read it fast enough. The action starts right at the very beginning and hardly ever lets up, leaving me with barely enough time to take a breath. There were several mind-blowing moments that left me speechless and my mouth gaping open in shock. Moments where I had to put my Kindle down for a minute to digest it all and wonder about the implications.

I want to talk about so much more, but don't want to spoil anything. So, I'll just leave it here with a huge recommendation to grab yourself a copy. Just be prepared for the most epic book hangover you'll ever have.

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

Five Stars

Monday, July 1, 2019

Review: Between Frames (The City Between #4) by W.R. Gingell

About the Book
Two fae is company, but a company of fae is trouble.

Which is exactly what we’ve got. Trouble, I mean. Well, and fae. Lots of fae.

Something or someone is stalking and killing high-level fae around Hobart—tearing out hearts and leaving a trail of bloody bodies behind. Fae don’t like it when they’re the ones getting killed, so of course they came to hire my owners.

Owners, you ask?

Hi. I’m Pet. No, that’s not my name. I am a pet.

My owners? They’re fae. Well, two fae and one stroppy vampire.

Welcome to the world Between.


My Thoughts

Between Frames was another awesome addition to this series! It's book four in the City Between series and while there's some recaps, I'd still definitely recommend starting with book one.

Pet is back along with her three psychos and this time they're investigating a recent string of fae murders. There's so much going on in this book. There's some enlightening reveals. Lots of interesting information is brought up. And then, the ending! Argh! Why? I need the next book now!

At the beginning of this series, JinYeong was my least favorite character. But with each progressive book, I've liked him more and more. To the point that with this book, he's become my absolute favorite. His snark is hilarious. The way him and Pet bicker back and forth, their teasing, the way they push each other's buttons, is so amusing. I can't get enough of him now.

This is quickly becoming my favorite series and this installment further cemented that fact. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy.

Five Stars