Review: Ford (The Montana Marshalls #3) by Susan May Warren

About the Book

Family…country…or the woman he loves…

Navy Seal Ford Marshall isn’t the kind to stand by and let a woman get hurt—especially when it involves his twin sister, RJ. So, when she makes the news, accused of sparking an international incident, he doesn’t care what it takes—he’s going to find her and bring her home.

But he might need a little help, so he calls on the woman who has had his back during the last three years—Petty Officer Scarlett Hathaway, former communications expert-turned Rescue Swimmer candidate. She’ll help him get into the country, watch his back, and…well, they might be able to have one last mission together before she leaves for a new life, a life he very much wants to be a part of now that she is off his team. Maybe he can convince her to give them a chance to kindle the spark that’s simmered between them for years.

Scarlett Hathaway isn’t sure what future she wants—not when she suddenly has to care for her little brother. Maybe she should quit the Navy and start a life with the man she can’t seem to get out of her heart. So yes, she’ll help Ford find his sister. And maybe, along the way, figure out if they have a future.

But finding RJ somewhere in the vastness of Russia with the FSB chasing them will push Scarlett beyond even her courage and make her question everything she thought she wanted…including Ford. What will it cost her to love a man who saves the world?

And when Ford is asked to choose between saving his sister, saving the world from a war, and rescuing the woman he loves…can he live with his decision?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

I was so excited for this novel. Ford's side story in Tate was my favorite thing about that book, so I was very eager to get to know him and Scarlett better. To see where their journey took them. And I absolutely loved it! It's one of those books where I'm struggling to come up with the right words to express just how much I liked it. I had the same trouble with Knox and I liked this one even more.

It starts out so action-packed and that breakneck pace continues throughout the entire story. The characters get into some seriously dangerous and life-threatening situations that had me questioning if it just might be possible that things weren't going to work out this time. My heart certainly got a workout, that's for sure.

I've gotta say that I really enjoy the way Warren has formatted these books to include a main story featuring one couple, but also has a secondary story featuring a different couple. The stories always mesh so well together and, yet, it feels like I'm getting two for the price of one. Love that!

This has been a fantastic series so far and I'm so excited for Wyatt. He's still a little bit of a mystery and I'm eager to find out what excitement and adventures await him.

Five Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Legacy Rejected (The Legacy #1) by Robin Patchen

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 Legacy Rejected (The Legacy #1) by Robin Patchen.

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?

Book Beginning

Ginny Lamont stepped onto her front porch and breathed in the sunshine. She loved everything about her new home. Even the cold New Hampshire winter had felt cozy and homey here.

Friday 56

"You're a friend, Kade. I'm just saying you should distance yourself from Ginny Lamont, or your dreams are going to fall apart."

Have you ever wished that there were official government bookish holidays, and that, by law, employers HAD to give their workers a paid day off? If so, what kind of bookish holiday would you like to have?

Oooh, I hadn't thought of that before, but that'd be a neat idea! A holiday just for reading? I'm in!

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Waves (Love in Chaos #1) by Amy Matayo

About the Book

Dillon Hayes is twenty-eight and single, an unfortunate status her overbearing family is determined to fix. So when she’s stuck on a cruise ship for a seven-day reunion with the lot of them, she's desperate for any escape she can find, even if it means partnering with a sketchy stranger for an off-the-beaten-path snorkeling excursion. After her mother's last matchmaking attempt, Dillon is more than willing to trade all her good sense for a few hours of solace.

Liam Gamble is stuck in the middle of family vacation hell. The worst part: it's not even his family. This will be the last time he ever accepts a free-vacation invitation from his best friend. At this point, he'd be willing to hand over his life savings to get off this crazy ship. So when he catches one of his friend's cousins sneaking off board, he decides to join her, hijacking her private excursion and nearly blowing her cover. If she gets to leave, so does he.

But what starts off as a secret escape turns into a very real nightmare when their shady tour guide leaves them stranded on an uninhabited island with nothing but the clothes on their backs and no idea how to keep themselves alive.

As hours turn into days, and the weather proves as threatening as their need for food and water, Dillon and Liam must join forces and rely on each other if they have any hope of seeing their families again. Funny thing: sometimes in life, the end of the rope is when you discover everything you value has been in front of you all along.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Going on a week-long cruise with your meddlesome, nightmare of a family is bad enough. Things can't get worse right? Well... later, getting stranded on a deserted island with your cousin's best friend, a virtual stranger, with almost no food and water. That's way past worse and is the situation Dillon finds herself in. Can you imagine how terrifying that would be?

Author Amy Matayo made me feel so many different emotions with this read. Desperation, panic, hope, dread, gratitude, frustration, love, and so many more. There was sarcastic, self-deprecating humor that I could relate to so much. Seriously, there were so many times I was laughing out loud. I didn't expect that, but I loved it!

I pretty much loved everything about this fantastically entertaining romance. I can't recommend it highly enough!

Five Stars

Can't Wait Wednesday: Deadly Deceit (Harbored Secrets #2) by Natalie Walters

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 Deadly Deceit (Harbored Secrets #2) by Natalie Walters releasing November 5.

About the Book
Independent and tenacious journalist Vivian DeMarco is back in Walton, Georgia, for one reason--to do her job and get out. When her boss suddenly dies under suspicious circumstances, Vivian's only hope for finding the truth--and the next big story--is small-town law enforcement's lanky poster boy, Deputy Ryan Frost. But the deeper they dig, the more twisted the truth becomes, and Vivian finds herself fighting for not only answers but also her life. False leads, incriminating emails, and someone called The Watcher force Vivian to confront the secret of her past and decide: How much is she willing to risk for the sake of a headline?

Author Natalie Walters welcomes you back to Walton, Georgia, where everyone knows your name--but no one knows your secret.

Why I Need It
I really enjoyed Living Lies, the first book in the series, and have been so eager for this sequel. I'm always on the lookout for great romantic suspense and if Deadly Deceit is anything like it's predecessor, I know I'm in for a real treat.

What upcoming release are you excited about?

Cover Reveal: Thirst by Jill Williamson

I'm so excited to reveal the cover for Thirst by Jill Williamson today! It's a prequel to The Safe Lands Trilogy and book one in a duology. I read The Safe Lands Trilogy a few years ago and LOVED it, so to say that I'm ecstatic for Thirst is an understatement! Releasing November 21, you can preorder your copy right now, at this link http://jillwilliamson.com/thirst/. The ebook is only $2.99!


Before we get to the gorgeous cover, here's a little bit about the book:

The end of the world is only the beginning. A waterborne disease has contaminated the world’s fresh water, decimating the human race. Seventeen-year-old Eli McShane and his friends flee the chaos and violence in Phoenix and journey north toward the rumored location of a safe water source. They add several to their number, including the mysterious Hannah, who is being hunted by a dangerous man. Desperation brings our the worst in many of the travelers, infecting even those closest to Eli. When division comes, will he be able to hold his group together or will each fall victim to their own thirst for survival?

Join some old friends from Glenrock and Jack's Peak in this thrilling first book of the Thirst Duology. Best-selling author Jill Williamson has brought back the breathtaking suspense of the The Safe Lands series in this chilling prequel that will leave readers panting for the next installment.

Sounds great right? And now, THE COVER!

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How awesome it that?! I LOVE IT!


Here's the preorder link again: http://jillwilliamson.com/thirst/

Review: The Unkindest Tide (October Daye #13) by Seanan McGuire

About the Book

Hundreds of years ago, the Selkies made a deal with the sea witch: they would have the sea for as long as she allowed it, and when the time came, she would call in all their debts at once. Many people assumed that day would never come. Those people were wrong.

When the Luidaeg—October "Toby" Daye's oldest and most dangerous ally—tells her the time has come for the Selkies to fulfill their side of the bargain, and that Toby must be a part of the process, Toby can't refuse. Literally. The Selkies aren't the only ones in debt to the Luidaeg, and Toby has to pay what she owes like anyone else. They will travel to the fabled Duchy of Ships and call a convocation of the Selkies, telling them to come and meet the Luidaeg's price...or face the consequences.

Of course, nothing is that simple. When Dianda Lorden's brother appears to arrest Dianda for treason against the Undersea, when a Selkie woman is stripped of her skin and then murdered, when everything is falling apart, that's when Toby will have to answer the real question of the hour.

Is she going to sink? Or is she going to swim?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Liar's daughter, come to turn back the tide.

You ever read a book and feel like you're at home in it? You sink into the pages and get hopelessly, happily lost? Feel like you're right in the thick of things, experiencing everything right alongside the characters? Not just as an observer, but an actual participant? Every single time I open the pages to a book in this series, I experience that magic. And I love every second of it.

In The Unkindest Tide, the Luidaeg has finally called in Toby's debts. She can't refuse to help Luidaeg, even if she wanted to. She doesn't mind, not really. She'll be helping to set right a wrong that's needed to be done for centuries. But the outcome will affect Toby's daughter in a way that there's no turning back from. The almost nonexistent relationship between mother and daughter has the potential to deteriorate even more, past the point of no return.

I always try to take my time with the new Toby book. I try to savor it, make it last as long as I can. But that never seems to work out. It never fails, I reach a certain point and I can't help but read it as fast as possible. I inevitably reach the end long before I want to and my journey with these characters concludes swifter than I was ready for.

The Unkindest Tide was another epic book in this favorite series of mine. It was exactly what I was hoping it would be and so much more. We learn a lot and yet there's still many more answers to be revealed, leaving me so hungry for the next book. If you're a fan of urban fantasy, pick up this series. It's the best! Start with book one, though. There's a lot of history that's not to be missed out on.

NOTE: This book contains strong language.

Quotes:

• My family tree has a lot of thorns, and a tendency to draw blood. 

(Toby talking about the Luidaeg)

• She’s the bogeyman fae parents use to threaten their children, the terrifying sea witch who will spirit them away to where the bad kids go if they don’t eat their vegetables or practice their illusions or make their beds. Out of all Faerie’s monsters, she’s painted as the one with the sharpest teeth, the cruelest claws. I suspect that’s more of Evening’s work, because while the Luidaeg can be harsh, she’s rarely cruel. Her gifts come with a cost. That doesn’t make them evil. It just makes them expensive.

• “Sir October Christine Daye, Knight of Lost Words, daughter of Amandine the Liar, sworn in service to Duke Sylvester Torquill of Shadowed Hills, hero of the realm in the Mists, there are debts between us,” she said, and her voice was cold and hollow, and filled with ancient echoes.

• I can heal a broken bone in minutes and bring myself back from the dead, and I still can’t cure migraines. Sometimes the world is just unfair. 

• “Sometimes you need to take peoples’ minds off their problems if you want those problems to resolve themselves,” said Marcia. “Focusing on things can make them worse.”
  

Five Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: The Waves (Love in Chaos #1) by Amy Matayo

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 The Waves (Love in Chaos #1) by Amy Matayo.

About the Book

Dillon Hayes is twenty-eight and single, an unfortunate status her overbearing family is determined to fix. So when she’s stuck on a cruise ship for a seven-day reunion with the lot of them, she's desperate for any escape she can find, even if it means partnering with a sketchy stranger for an off-the-beaten-path snorkeling excursion. After her mother's last matchmaking attempt, Dillon is more than willing to trade all her good sense for a few hours of solace.

Liam Gamble is stuck in the middle of family vacation hell. The worst part: it's not even his family. This will be the last time he ever accepts a free-vacation invitation from his best friend. At this point, he'd be willing to hand over his life savings to get off this crazy ship. So when he catches one of his friend's cousins sneaking off board, he decides to join her, hijacking her private excursion and nearly blowing her cover. If she gets to leave, so does he.

But what starts off as a secret escape turns into a very real nightmare when their shady tour guide leaves them stranded on an uninhabited island with nothing but the clothes on their backs and no idea how to keep themselves alive.

As hours turn into days, and the weather proves as threatening as their need for food and water, Dillon and Liam must join forces and rely on each other if they have any hope of seeing their families again. Funny thing: sometimes in life, the end of the rope is when you discover everything you value has been in front of you all along.

Book Beginning

I'm drowning again.

Friday 56

I crawl into the little nook I cleared inside the shack and sit next to Dillon. The wind is coming at us with brutal force, shaking the walls and whooshing through the open slats in the old building.

How long does it usually take you to finish a book?

It depends on how big the book is and what's going on in 'real life', but I'd say my average is probably around three days. Sometimes longer, sometimes shorter.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Paranormia by Paul Regnier

About the Book

A nerdy nobody is heaven's newest hero. It's too bad that the devil fights dirty…

Chris Loury is penniless and painfully geeky. So when the struggling illustrator makes a wish that grants him supernatural visions, the lines start to blur between his comics and reality. After he crosses paths with a protector who calls himself an angel, Chris must decide if being a hero is worth the danger.

When his newfound confidence helps him connect with the girl-next-door, he hopes he can balance a relationship and a superhuman secret. But after a devilishly gorgeous woman with money and an ulterior motive tempts him with career success and fame, he puts his crush, his town, and his life in jeopardy.

Will Chris fulfill his destiny and save the city from destruction?

Paranormia is an enthralling urban fantasy adventure. If you like underdog heroes, supernatural battles, and a dash of humor, then you’ll love Paul Regnier’s action-packed novel.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Paranormia is about the ongoing, eternal battle between good and evil. Spiritual warfare. You might expect that a novel dealing with such a serious subject would be just as serious as it sounds. But not necessarily. Paranormia tackles the issue with a ton of humor and a bit of lightheartedness that worked out perfectly and ended up being an extremely engaging read. 

Aspiring graphic novelist Chris Loury is an average geeky guy who's awkwardness tends to shine most in the moments when he's trying to be cool. He's tired of his boring, mundane life and wishes for greatness. Well...he gets it, alright, but it's not at all what he was expecting.

I won't lie, there were times when Chris wasn't the most likable guy, but there was a relatable and endearing quality to him that had me rooting for him. The first meeting between Chris and Finchelus the angel was memorable and hilarious. Come to think of it, pretty much every time Finch showed up it was like that.

Paranormia is a stellar Christian urban fantasy. It wrapped up nicely, but I'm definitely hoping for a sequel!

5 Stars

Can't Wait Wednesday: Echoes among the Stones by Jaime Jo Wright

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 Echoes among the Stones by Jaime Jo Wright releasing December 3.

About the Book

After Aggie Dunkirk's career is unceremoniously ended by her own mistakes, she finds herself traveling to Wisconsin, where her grandmother, Mumsie, lives alone in her rambling old home. She didn't plan for how eccentric Mumsie has become, obsessing over an old, unsolved crime scene--even going so far as to re-create it in the attic.

Mystery seems to follow her when she finds work as a secretary helping to restore the flooded historical part of the cemetery. Forced to work with the puzzling, yet attractive museum curator to contact living family members of those in the disturbed graves, Aggie stumbles upon the unsolved murder of a young woman--the details of which match Mumsie's case. As Aggie exhumes the past's secrets, she uncovers a crime that some will go to any length to keep quiet--even if it means silencing Aggie.

In 1946, Imogene Flannigan works in a local factory and has eyes on owning her own beauty salon. But coming home to discover her younger sister's body in the attic changes everything. Unfamiliar with the newly burgeoning world of criminal forensics and not particularly welcomed as a woman, Imogene is nonetheless determined to stay involved. As her sister's case grows cold, Imogene vows to find justice . . . even if it costs her everything. 

Why I Need It

I've never come across a dual timeline novel quite as good as Jaime Jo Wright's. (Seriously, go pick up a copy of The Curse of Misty Wayfair. That book is spectacular!) This upcoming release sounds like it'll be a fantastic read too. I always enjoy an eccentric grandmother and the mystery already has me intrigued.

What upcoming release are you excited about?

Review: A Single Light by Tosca Lee

About the Book

In this gripping sequel to The Line Between, which New York Times bestselling author Alex Kava calls “everything you want in a thriller,” cult escapee Wynter Roth and ex-soldier Chase Miller emerge from their bunker to find a country ravaged by disease, and Wynter is the only one who can save it.

Six months after vanishing into an underground silo with sixty others, Wynter and Chase emerge to find the area abandoned. There is no sign of Noah and the rest of the group that was supposed to greet them when they emerged—the same people Wynter was counting on to help her locate the IV antibiotics her gravely ill friend, Julie, needs in order to live.

As the clock ticks down on Julie’s life, Wynter and Chase embark on a desperate search for medicine and answers. But what they find is not a nation on the cusp of recovery thanks to the promising new vaccine Wynter herself had a hand in creating, but one decimated by disease. What happened while they were underground?

With food and water in limited supply and their own survival in question, Chase and Wynter must venture further and further from the silo. Aided by an enigmatic mute named Otto, they come face-to-face with a society radically changed by global pandemic, where communities scrabble to survive under rogue leaders and cities are war zones. As hope fades by the hour and Wynter learns the terrible truth of the last six months, she is called upon once again to help save the nation she no longer recognizes—a place so dark she’s no longer sure it can even survive.

Fast-paced and taut, A Single Light is a breathless thriller of nonstop suspense about the risks of living in a world outside the safe confines of our closely-held beliefs and the relationships and lives that inspire us.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

I loved The Line Between, the first book in this series, and have been so anxious for the sequel. Something like what happens in this series could feasibly happen in real life. It's not out of the realm of possibilities. It's not far fetched, at all. So, at times, it made for a scary read, but it was, also, utterly compelling. An action packed, never ending thrill ride that I could not put down.

There were so many twists and turns and stunning revelations that I didn't see coming. Some that left me gasping for breath and having to set my Kindle down for a minute to recover. Seriously, parts of this book gave me a near panic attack. Imagining that this could actually happen. Wondering what I would do in the same situation. How would I react? It was terrifying to think about, but absolutely entertaining to read.

A Single Light could probably be read and enjoyed without having read The Line Between first, but I'd still recommend going in order. There's a lot of backstory I wouldn't want you to miss out on. Not to mention all the excitement.

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

Five Stars

Review: The Tomb of the Sea Witch (Beaumont and Beasley #2) by Kyle Robert Shultz

About the Book

She doesn’t want to be part of your world.

She wants to end it.

My name is Nick Beasley, and I used to not believe in magic. I also used to be human.

Now I’m a monster with fur and claws, trying to find a way to get back to normal. The Warrengate Academy of Advanced Magic might hold the answer.

Unfortunately, it’s got a homicidally grumpy dragon as a headmaster. Not to mention a lot of dark history. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that history never stays in the past...especially when magic is involved.

Let’s just say that the tale of The Little Mermaid didn’t play out exactly how you were told. There’s a dangerous secret behind it; one which could spell doom for me and everyone I care about.

An infamous villain is returning...and she’s not who you think she is.

What do you get when you mix Disney with Harry Potter? The second installment of the series which urban fantasy readers are finding addictive. Read it today!

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

I loved the first book in this series, The Beast of Talesend. It was such a blast to read, but there was no way the sequel could live up to it, right? Wrong! The Tomb of the Sea Witch was just as good, quite possibly even better.

Nick, Cordelia, and Crispin are still trying to find a way to turn Nick from the beastly monster back human again. Cordelia has a plan, but it's a dangerous one fraught with many potential pitfalls and deadly consequences.

There was a 'Little Mermaid' twist and we got to learn the 'real' story behind the tale. And I've gotta say, it was such a clever twist! Loved it!

This book was an all-around good time. I laughed so much. Sure, there's drama, suspense, heartfelt and serious moments, but at it's core, it's a ridiculously fun and wacky tale that will leave a big smile on your face. 

Favorite Quotes:

“I don’t like anyone. Disliking people is one of my favorite pastimes. Goodbye.”

“It’s often the way with romances between enchanters. Boy meets girl, boy angers girl, girl turns boy into…insert unpleasant creature here. Tale as old as time.”

“We need a plan B. Or are we on C or D by now? I can’t remember.”

4.5 Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Paranormia by Paul Regnier

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 a book I recently finished, Paranormia by Paul Regnier. It's a really fun urban fantasy that deals with the ultimate, ongoing battle between good and evil.

About the Book

A nerdy nobody is heaven's newest hero. It's too bad that the devil fights dirty…

Chris Loury is penniless and painfully geeky. So when the struggling illustrator makes a wish that grants him supernatural visions, the lines start to blur between his comics and reality. After he crosses paths with a protector who calls himself an angel, Chris must decide if being a hero is worth the danger.

When his newfound confidence helps him connect with the girl-next-door, he hopes he can balance a relationship and a superhuman secret. But after a devilishly gorgeous woman with money and an ulterior motive tempts him with career success and fame, he puts his crush, his town, and his life in jeopardy.

Will Chris fulfill his destiny and save the city from destruction?

Paranormia is an enthralling urban fantasy adventure. If you like underdog heroes, supernatural battles, and a dash of humor, then you’ll love Paul Regnier’s action-packed novel.

Book Beginning

Greatness eluded me. It wasn't for lack of effort or potential, as far as I could tell. I just couldn't shake the feeling I'd taken a wrong turn somewhere and couldn't find my way back.

Friday 56

The Ferrari wove through the Long Beach traffic like a speed bike in a land of scooters. I felt free and alive. Steve seemed annoyed.

Have you ever read a library book you loved so much, you just HAD to own it, so you bought a copy for yourself after returning the library book you had already finished?

Not that I can recall. Maybe when I was in elementary school, but not anytime recently.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Web of Deceit by Susan Sleeman

About the Book

Will he help find her sister’s killer . . . or lead the killer to her door?

When FBI Agent Kaitlyn Knight discovers her brother-in-law is Vyper—the notorious cyber-criminal and murderer wanted by the FBI—Kait doesn’t question her duty to arrest him. But when he murders her sister in front of her, leaving her infant niece motherless, Kait vows to hunt him down and bring him to justice while raising the baby.

Three years later, and not even a whisper of a lead in her search, Kait is about to give up hope of ever finding Vyper. All of that changes when he goes on a murderous spree taunting Kait with clues that she and homicide detective Sam Murdock must solve before her devious brother-in-law takes another life.

As the body count rises, Sam discovers the killing spree is really about striking back at Kait. He must put everything on the line—including the relationship he’s developed with Kait—to ensure her safety. The killer is waiting, watching her every move—and he won’t stop until he’s exacted his revenge and reclaims his rights to raise his daughter.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Web of Deceit has been on my TBR list for an embarrassingly long time. Why haven't I read it before now? I have no idea. I'm shaking my head for letting it sit there for so long, but I'm so glad I finally picked it up.

From the first line, I knew I was in for a wild, suspense-filled ride. There's so much action and intrigue. It hardly let up until the heart-pounding conclusion.

Fenton was a truly chilling villain. His madness, his rage, the lengths he went to seek his revenge were absolutely sickening. Kait was steadfast in her pursuit of capturing her brother-in-law. He had to be brought to justice for all the evil he'd done. She made a promise to catch him that she intended to keep it, no matter the cost. Sam was a great guy. He was the perfect counterpart to Kait and they had an instant chemistry that was smoking hot.

This was a true romantic suspense. It had the perfect combination of both genres. I'll definitely be looking forward to reading more books from this author.

Four Stars

Can't Wait Wednesday: Smoke Screen by Terri Blackstock

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 Smoke Screen by Terri Blackstock releasing November 5.

About the Book

One father was murdered, and another convicted of his death. All because their children fell in love.

Nate Beckett has spent his life fighting wildfires instead of the lies and rumors that drove him from his Colorado home town. His mother begs him to come to Carlisle now that his father has been released from prison, but it isn’t until he’s sidelined by an injury that he’s forced to return and face his past. But that means facing Brenna too.

Fourteen years ago, Nate was in love with the preacher's daughter. When Pastor Strickland discovered Brenna had defied him to sneak out with Nate, the fight between Strickland and Nate's drunken dad was loud—and very public. Strickland was found murdered later that night, and everyone accused Roy Beckett. When the church burned down, people assumed it was Nate getting even for his father’s conviction. He let the rumors fly and left Carlisle without looking back.

Now, Brenna is stunned to learn that the man convicted of murdering her father has been pardoned. The events of that night set her life on a bad course, and she’s dealing with a brutal custody battle with her ex and his new wife where he’s using lies and his family’s money to sway the judge. She’s barely hanging on, and she’s turned to alcohol to cope. Shame and fear consume her.

As they deal with the present—including new information about that fateful night and a wildfire that’s threatening their town—their past keeps igniting. Nate is the steady force Brenna has so desperately needed. But she’ll have to learn to trust him again first. 

Why I Need It
"One father was murdered, and another convicted of his death. All because their children fell in love."  When I read that line, I was hooked and knew I had to read this novel. Plus, it's by Terri Blackstock and I always enjoy her books, so I'm really excited for this one.

What upcoming release are you excited about?

The Rescue is on Tour with JustReads!

Join Tanya Eavenson at JustRead Tours where she shares about her new release The Rescue. There's also an awesome giveaway too! You could win a super cute bracelet and an ebook copy of The Rescue! Click here to check it out!

Review: Summer of Suspense: Sixteen Tales By Some of Christian Fiction’s Most Popular Mystery and Suspense Authors

About the Book

Long Days. Hot Nights. Deadly Secrets.

Christian Suspense Anthology!

Start your summer off right with 16 gripping and never-before published tales of Christian suspense from today's most popular mystery and suspense authors.

Join Mary Alford, Christy Barritt, Patricia Bradley, Vannetta Chapman, Mary Ellis, Debby Giusti, Ruth Hartzler, Shaen Layle, Amy Lillard, Ruth Logan Herne, Loree Lough, Elizabeth Ludwig, Nancy Mehl, Serena B. Miller, Samantha Price, Alana Terry on a dangerous journey filled with mystery, suspense, and faith that that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. 

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Summer of Suspense is a fantastic collection of short stories from sixteen different authors. It featured some old favorites and many who were new to me, quite a few of which are now going on my wishlist. A few of my absolute favorites were Afterglow by Christy Barritt, Fading into the Night by Vannetta Chapman, On the Run by Debby Guisti, and Murder in Sugarcreek by Serena B. Miller. But, really, I enjoyed the vast majority of the stories. There were a few that weren't really my cup of tea, but I'm sure others will enjoy them.


Storm Warnings by Mary Alford
4 Stars

Framed for the deaths of her teammates and sought out as one of the most wanted terrorists, Casey Montgomery has hidden herself away in the remote mountains of Alaska. Trying to find a way to clear her name, she finally feels safe for the first time in awhile. Until she finds a set of footprints that aren't hers close to her cabin. Have the people who framed her finally found her? Will she make it out alive?

There's a lot of action and excitement packed into this short story. It was great! It was my first time reading anything by Mary Alford and I'm excited to read more from her.


Afterglow (Lantern Beach Escape, Book One) by Christy Barritt
5 Stars

In Lantern Beach for their honeymoon, Grayson finds out that his new wife just might be a murderer. The Rachel he knows would never be capable of murder, but apparently there's secrets she doesn't want shared. As an investigative reporter, he vows to get to the bottom of it all and find out the truth about his wife.

Afterglow is another compelling and impossible to put down story from Christy Barritt. It completely held my attention and even after finishing it, I'm still thinking about it. I can't forget to mention the cameos from a couple of original Lantern Beach characters. Loved seeing them pop up.


Code Pink – Stolen Baby by Patricia Bradley
3.5 Stars

Holly Jordan's newborn son was kidnapped right after the devastating car wreck that killed her husband. Five years later, she thinks she's found a way to locate her son. Will she finally be reunited with him? Or is this just another fruitless search that'll end in more heartbreak?

The truly compelling prologue had me completely invested and the suspense kept me glued to the pages. Everything happened a bit too fast, but I guess that's to be expected in a story this short. Though I wish it had been a little bit longer, I did have a good time reading it and am interested in reading other books from this author.


Fading into the Night by Vannetta Chapman
5 Stars

A cyber terrorist is planning a devastating attack and Nora Brooks is sent to stop him. She thinks she's found him at an Amish farm in Shipshewana. But who she actually finds is the farm owner Benjamin Lapp. He agrees to help her find the madman before the terrorist's plan can go into effect.

I don't read much Amish fiction, but maybe I should. This was so good! One of my favorites in the collection. There was a great sense of urgency from beginning to end that had me speeding through the pages.


Missing by Mary Ellis
3 Stars

Lily Sellers is back home in Plum Creek, Ohio after graduating from college. She's hoping to reconnect with some of her Amish friends, but finds out a few of the women have abruptly left town. They left notes saying they'd be back someday, but Lily's sure something sinister is going on. And she intends to find out with the help of FBI Agent Marc Harris.

The mystery was solid and held my interest, but wrapped up way too quickly. It felt very abrupt.


On the Run by Debby Giusti
5 Stars

Annalise Bonner is staying at her sister's house when her niece's baby monitor picks up a signal from the next door neighbor's system. What she hears, and then sees when she looks out the window, chills her, sending her on a mad dash run for her life.

This story grabbed me and didn't let go until the exciting conclusion. Loved the characters, the chase, pretty much everything about it. What a stellar suspense. I want more!


Wedding Day Revenge by Rachel J. Good
4 Stars

It's almost Benuel's wedding day and someone is threatening his bride-to-be, Mari. But the person they suspect is in jail, safely locked up behind bars. Or is she?

I really enjoyed this Amish story. The suspense and danger kept building and I became more and more absorbed as the minutes ticked ever closer to the wedding.


Inscription (Relic Hunters Taskforce Prequel) by Ruth Hartzler
4 Stars

College professor, and Latin and Greek scholar, Dr. Abigail Spencer finds herself in a precarious situation when dangerous men force her to translate an ancient Greek tablet and help them find some priceless Biblical artifacts.

What an intriguing premise! It was such an exciting adventure. I didn't want it to end! I can't wait to check out the rest of the series!


Death in Earthen Vessels by Shaen Layle
4 Stars

John Hollingsworth had to retire from the police force after his stroke and is now staying with his sister at her lakeside retreat. He has suspicions that something nefarious is going on and intends to investigate.

The mystery was a little slow to get started, but I didn't mind it. There was a sense of impending danger that kept building to the shocking conclusion. John was easy to like and I wouldn't mind reading more about him. I'll be adding this author to my watchlist.


The Secret Life of Emma Evans by Loree Lough
2.5 Stars

Emma Evans was found dead in her bathtub. She made many enemies, so the suspect list was long. But her death was ruled a suicide. Her ex-fiance Brady Muir is positive that's not true and he intends to prove it.

This story was okay. Not my favorite, but not my least favorite either. Spoilers are preventing me from explaining the issues I had with it.


Cold Creek Manor by Elizabeth Ludwig
4 Stars

Peyton thought she'd run far enough away that her past wouldn't catch up to her. But it's finally found her and danger is closing in quick.

I sped through this story. I wish it had been slightly longer, but overall, it was really good.


Chasing Shadows by Nancy Mehl
4.5 Stars

Forced into a vacation, FBI Special Agent Kaely Quinn is relaxing at a remote cabin when she's awakened in the middle of the night by a bloodcurdling scream. Now her time off has just turned into a working vacation as she tries to figure out what's going on.

I've enjoyed the Kaely Quinn series, so far, and was excited to read this short story. It was great! I thought I had it figured out, but then there was a curveball that completely shot my theory down. What a great twist.


Murder in Sugarcreek (An Accidental Adventure of Doreen Sizemore) by Serena B. Miller
5 Stars

This was the shortest story in the collection and the funniest. It had a cozy mystery-vibe to it which was a nice change of pace. I adored Doreen. She's a spunky 70-something year old lady who gets roped into accompanying her cousin Nola Belle into meeting her new out-of-state boyfriend. Along the way she stumbles upon a mystery.

This had me literally laughing out loud. Doreen is something else! What a hoot! I haven't laughed that hard or that much in a long time. It was just what I needed. I'm definitely gonna be checking out the other books featuring Doreen.


Breakout (Gretel Koch Jewel Thief: Prequel) by Samantha Price
4.5 Stars

Infamous jewel thief Gretel Koch has landed herself in prison. All she can think about is escaping, retrieving the jewels, and getting revenge on her ex-boyfriend who turned on her and is testifying against her.

This story was one of my most highly anticipated in this collection and it did not disappoint. It's fast paced and kept me guessing. It's a great prequel and now I'm even more excited for the series!


Terror in the Cabin by Alana Terry
2 Stars

So I was expecting a story at a remote cabin in the woods, but it actually takes place in a completely different kind of cabin. It was a unique setting that added a lot of tension and anxiety. Willow's the main character and she tells the story as if she's having a conversation with the reader. That was a cool idea, though she was a bit off-putting, at times. There were a couple of times I thought about not finishing it, but I'm glad I did. The second half of the story definitely picked up the pace and I enjoyed it much more than the first part.

4 Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Web of Deceit by Susan Sleeman

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 Web of Deceit by Susan Sleeman, a book that's been on my TBR list for way too long.

About the Book

Will he help find her sister’s killer . . . or lead the killer to her door?

When FBI Agent Kaitlyn Knight discovers her brother-in-law is Vyper—the notorious cyber-criminal and murderer wanted by the FBI—Kait doesn’t question her duty to arrest him. But when he murders her sister in front of her, leaving her infant niece motherless, Kait vows to hunt him down and bring him to justice while raising the baby.

Three years later, and not even a whisper of a lead in her search, Kait is about to give up hope of ever finding Vyper. All of that changes when he goes on a murderous spree taunting Kait with clues that she and homicide detective Sam Murdock must solve before her devious brother-in-law takes another life.

As the body count rises, Sam discovers the killing spree is really about striking back at Kait. He must put everything on the line—including the relationship he’s developed with Kait—to ensure her safety. The killer is waiting, watching her every move—and he won’t stop until he’s exacted his revenge and reclaims his rights to raise his daughter.

Book Beginning

Kait Knight met her brother-in-law's piercing black eyes. The façade he'd lived for the last two years peeled away, revealing the cold, harsh eyes of a murderer.

Friday 56

Alarm snaked up and over her back, but she wouldn't speak and let him hear the terror in her voice.

What would you give as a birthday gift to a fellow book lover?

Ooh, that's a good question! I guess it would depend on the person. The go-to gift would probably be a book they've been wanting, but haven't gotten yet. But maybe a more unique gift would be customizing a mug, journal, pillowcase, etc. with one of their favorite quotes. I have a pillowcase with my favorite Alice in Wonderland quote, "We're all mad here", that I really love. So maybe something like that.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Winds of Danger (Lantern Beach Romantic Suspense #4) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

Wes O’Neill is perfectly content to hang with his friends and enjoy island life on Lantern Beach. Something begins to change inside him when Paige Henderson sweeps into his life. But the beautiful newcomer is hiding painful secrets beneath her cheerful facade.

Police dispatcher Paige Henderson came to Lantern Beach riddled with guilt and uncertainties after the fallout of a bad relationship. When she meets Wes, she begins to open up to the possibility of love again. But there’s something Wes isn’t telling her—something that could change everything.

As the winds shift, doubts seep into Paige’s mind. Can Paige and Wes trust each other, even as the currents work against them? Or is trouble from the past too much to overcome?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

What a suspenseful and fast paced read! It was great to finally get Wes's story. He's been a steadfast friend to the other Lantern Beach residents and I was so happy to get to know him even better in Winds of Danger.

Wes has finally found a wonderful woman, Paige the new police dispatcher. Things are new, but going well until his crazy ex-girlfriend shows up and starts stalking, terrorizing, and playing mind games with them. Trying her best to tear them apart.

Wes and Paige are such a great couple who compliment one another really well. I was on the edge of my seat, worried for them. I zoomed through the pages, racing towards conclusion and hoping for a happy ending for the pair.

Winds of Danger is another great romantic suspense from Christy Barritt.

Four Stars

Can't Wait Wednesday: Synapse by Steven James

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 Synapse by Steven James releasing October 8.

About the Book

Thirty years in the future, when AI is so advanced that humans live side by side with cognizant robots called Artificials, Kestrel Hathaway must come to terms not just with what machines know, but with what they believe.

Soon after experiencing a personal tragedy, Kestrel witnesses a terrorist attack and is drawn into a world of conspiracies and lies that she and Jordan, her Artificial, have to untangle. With a second, more brutal attack looming on the horizon, their best chance of stopping it is teaming up with federal counterterrorism agent Nick Vernon. But the clock is ticking—and all the while, Jordan is asking questions Artificials were never meant to ask.

Deftly weaving suspense and intrigue into a rich, resonant tale that explores faith and what it really means to be human, Steven James offers us a glimpse into the future—and into our own hearts.

Synapse is an unforgettable, gripping story of dreams shattered, truth revealed, and hope reborn.

Why I Need It

This sounds like it'll be thrilling read. I'm really intrigued by the Artificials. I want to know more about them!

What upcoming release are you excited about?

Review: The Spice King (Hope and Glory #1) by Elizabeth Camden

About the Book

Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building his very successful global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Resolved to salvage his family before it spirals out of control, he returns to his ancestral home to save his brother and sister before it's too late.

As a junior botanist for the Smithsonian, Annabelle Larkin has been charged with the impossible task of gaining access to the notoriously private Delacroix plant collection. If she fails, she will be out of a job and the family farm in Kansas will go under. She has no idea that in gaining entrance to the Delacroix world, she will unwittingly step into a web of dangerous political intrigue far beyond her experience.

Unable to deny her attraction to the reclusive business tycoon, Annabelle will be forced to choose between her heart and loyalty to her country. Can Gray and Annabelle find a way through the storm of scandal without destroying the family Gray is fighting to save?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

The Spice King has everything I love in a historical read and so much more. There's espionage, secrets, betrayal, intrigue, romance. I could go on and on.

I always feel like I learn new and interesting bits of history when I read an Elizabeth Camden book and this one is no different. The Spice King deals with a subject that's very important to me. Food safety. I had no idea how lax the regulations were. Food labeling was pretty much nonexistent and oftentimes, the product wasn't even what it said it was. For example: a jar of applesauce that had no apples in it, but was actually pumpkin that was chemically treated to taste like apples. Crazy! This completely blew my mind and made for an absolutely compelling read. I know there's still room for improvement with our food nowadays, but thank goodness it's better than it used to be.

I'm gonna say something that shocks even me, but, here I go. Move over Romulus White. I've got a new favorite Elizabeth Camden hero and his name is Gray Delacroix. Never did I think there'd be a leading man that could outdo Romulus from 'From This Moment', but Gray Delacroix has done just that. So dreamy. So cranky. He has his faults, for sure, yet he's such an upstanding, all-around good guy. He's taken over his family's spice empire and is adamant about making sure all the ingredients are pure and of the best quality. Unlike his biggest competitor whose only concern is making money and will use unsafe ingredients to get the biggest profit.

Annabelle Larkin has a sunny, upbeat, and always optimistic attitude. She's Gray's complete opposite, but they have some seriously strong chemistry. I liked her, for the most part. Though she did make a decision that really irked me. I know why she did it, but I still wanted to shake some sense into her.

I want to talk about so many more things, but they verge into spoiler territory. Suffice it to say, The Spice King is a must read for any fan of historical romance. It's my new favorite novel from this author and I can't recommend it highly enough.

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

Five Stars

Review: The Rescue (All Roads Lead to Texas Book 1) by Tanya Eavenson

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?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

What a beautiful read that wonderfully showcases God's everlasting love!

Tanya Eavenson is one of my favorite authors and to say I was excited for her new book is an understatement. It did not disappoint and is, in fact, a new favorite.

I loved everything about it. I was fully consumed from page one and as I got further and further into the story, it became increasingly more difficult to put it down. I found myself losing all track of time. There was a good deal of suspense that had my anxiety high and hoping for a happy ending.

So realistic were these characters that they seemed to jump right off the page. I was so rooting for them, well except for the vile Mr. Richards. What a fiend he was!

I had a great time reading The Rescue and highly recommend it to fans of historical romance. I can't wait for book two!

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

Five Stars