Review: Where Secrets Lie (Deception In The Mountains Book 1) by Rebecca Lake

ABOUT THE BOOK
Some secrets refuse to stay buried...

Anna Stanten thought she'd left her past behind when she fled to Texas after her mother's death. But a haunting phone call shatters her new life, luring her back to Idaho with promises of long-buried truths. As she delves into a labyrinth of family secrets, Anna finds herself face-to-face with Wyatt Stone, the first love she'd all but forgotten. Can she trust him with her heart as she unravels the web of lies surrounding her family?

Confronted by the enigmatic figure of her great-uncle Atticus and pursued by an unseen threat, Anna must summon the courage to face the darkness of her family's history. With each revelation, she steps further out of her mother's shadow and into her own strength. But as the secrets pile up and the danger mounts, Anna realizes that uncovering the truth might cost her everything – including her life.

From the pen of Rebecca Lake comes a gripping tale of suspense and sweet romance that will keep you turning pages long into the night. "Where Secrets Lie" is more than just a mystery – it's a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the power of love to light even the darkest corners of our past.

Unearth the secrets alongside Anna. Will you dare to venture into the shadows where truth and danger intertwine?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This debut novel held my attention from beginning to end. I was invested in the characters’ lives and intrigued by the mystery. When I’d have to set this book aside to tend to real-life things, I couldn’t stop wondering what was going to happen next.

This featured a slow-building mystery where the tension and danger grew the further into the story it got. It kept me guessing. And while I did eventually figure out one thing, another twist threw me for a loop. I sure didn’t see that coming.

I will say that there were a few moments where some suspension of belief was needed and some things seemed to fall into place a little too easily, but, overall, this was an enjoyable read that has me looking forward to the next one.

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

3.5 STARS

Review: A Death in Door County (Monster Hunter Mysteries #1) by Annelise Ryan

About the Book

A Wisconsin bookstore owner and cryptozoologist is asked to investigate a series of deaths that just might be proof of a fabled lake monster in this first installment of a new mystery series by USA Today bestselling author Annelise Ryan.

Morgan Carter, owner of the Odds and Ends bookstore in Door County, Wisconsin, has a hobby. When she’s not tending the store, she’s hunting cryptids—creatures whose existence is rumored, but never proven to be real. It’s a hobby that cost her parents their lives, but one she’ll never give up on.

So when a number of bodies turn up on the shores of Lake Michigan with injuries that look like bites from a giant unknown animal, police chief Jon Flanders turns to Morgan for help. A skeptic at heart, Morgan can’t turn down the opportunity to find proof of an entity whose existence she can’t definitively rule out. She and her beloved rescue dog, Newt, journey to the Death's Door strait to hunt for a homicidal monster in the lake—but if they’re not careful, they just might be its next victims.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I’ve always been fascinated by cryptids, the legends behind them, and all that stuff, so this book was right up my alley.

There have been a series of suspicious deaths on Lake Michigan, and cryptozoologist Morgan Carter is called to the scene to try to figure out what might’ve happened. Was it an elusive lake monster? Or was it something more ordinary but no less deadly?

One of my favorite parts of the book, well, other than Morgan’s dog Newt, was trying to figure out if the lake monster was actually real or not. Like Morgan, I’m a bit skeptical about these things, but there’s always the question of what if, and how did the legend start? That’s always intrigued me with things like this.

I thought the mystery was good but predictable. The pace was slowed down by long descriptions of the scenery and the history of the area. But other than that, this was an entertaining read. I’m looking forward to the next one!

3.5 STARS

Review: Ned (The Minnesota Marshalls #3) by Susan May Warren

About the Book

After four years of training to become a Navy SEAL, Ned Marshall is finally ready to marry the woman of his dreams, Shae Johnson . And Shae’s been uber patient, waiting, building a life as a free-lance graphic artist, moving around the globe to be with him. So, when she said yes to his proposal in Geneva, he fully expected to live happily-ever-after.

At the very least, he expected her to be waiting at the hotel for him three days after an emergency call-out. And maybe it was unreasonable to expect her to be sitting in the hotel, working on her watercolors—Shae, after all grew up in Montana, and she has adventure in her blood. So of course she’s going to go climb the beautiful Swiss mountains. Even make a friend.

But Ned isn’t thrilled with her new friend, and something about him doesn’t feel safe…

So she’s made some friends while waiting for Ned to return? Shae can’t believe that after years of sacrifice, Ned is actually angry at her—what did he expect, that she’d sit by the window? Dana and his friends are harmless, right?

Not so much. Because when Shae finds herself kidnapped, and brought to Russia, she fears the worst—she’s been swept up in a human trafficking ring. And when she’s sent to, of all places, Siberia how will Ned ever find her?

But Ned isn’t going to lose her—not after everything they’ve been through, and he’ll stop at nothing to rescue her. But when he discovers the real reason she’s been taken, he will have to become a traitor to his country if he wants her back.

Join the epic race to rescue Shae in the high-adrenaline book three in the Minnesota Marshalls series.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Susan May Warren's books never fail to get my heart pounding and adrenaline pumping. This book was nearly nonstop action and a race against time from the first page to the last. (And, really, it didn't even stop there. Things just ramped up for the next book.)

I will say that this wasn't one of my favorite Susan May Warren books. There was some suspension of belief needed. And, I don't usually have this problem, but I found myself lost a few times. There was so much going on and so much going wrong for the characters that I had a hard time connecting with some of them. 

I did admire Shae's resiliency and tenacity, though. She'd been through a lot in her life, but despite finding herself in another horrible situation, she was so brave. She didn't give up, and I loved her fighting spirit.

I really enjoyed Iris and Hudson's part of the story. I became very invested in them, so I am looking forward to the next book. 

3.5 STARS

Review: A Medium Fate (The Haunted Life Cozy Mystery Series #1) by Lynn Cahoon

About the Book

I see ghosts, but I do my best to ignore them.

When Eddie Cayce turned home to New Orleans from her carefully built Seattle life, it’s not just for her grandmother’s funeral. She’s home to stay. More to the point, now that she’s broken it off with the almost fiancé and quit her corporate junior designer position over one too many trainings on how to run a copier, she has no reason to return.

With the money she’ll receive in her inheritance, she can finally open the antique store she’s always dreamed of – that as long as her ability to see ghosts stays dormant. In Seattle, her gift had dwindled down to seeing the occasional ghost during her morning runs in her Queen Anne neighborhood. But here? New Orleans is filled with the visitors, as her grandmother always called them. And now, they are finding Eddie and want to chat. Especially about the most recent murder.

Can Eddie carve out a real life here among the spirit world?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was a short but entertaining cozy mystery. It felt like just an introduction to the series, like it was setting everything up for future installments. The mystery didn't get started until about the halfway point, and since this was such a short read, it felt a little rushed. I did enjoy getting to know Eddie and her brother, and the unique family gift. And I always love a New Orleans setting. I definitely plan on checking out the next book. If you're in the mood for a quick and light paranormal cozy, I think you'll enjoy this one!

3.5 STARS

Review: Heroes in the Crossfire: Four Romantic Suspense Novellas

About the Book

Four Romantic Suspense Novellas by award-winning, bestselling authors.

Out of Time by Lynn Blackburn
An attorney in Raleigh, NC, Hope Malone has never let her wheelchair stop her from reaching her goals. She’s established a successful business law practice and enjoys the occasional pro bono work. But when a long-lost friend reaches out for help, Hope finds herself dragged into a world of organized crime, kidnapping, and murder— and right back in the path of the one man she’s determined to avoid, FBI Special Agent Charles Romero.

Just days away from arresting the notorious crime boss, Charles never expects Hope— the woman who ghosted him seven weeks ago— to show up at a crime scene and nearly destroy his entire case. If he wants to convince her to give them another chance, he’ll first have to keep her from sacrificing her life to save two innocent ones.

Code Trauma by Lynette Eason
Flight Nurse Practitioner, Holly Cooper, has an enemy who wants her gone from the hospital one way or another. She and her fiancé, Detective Andy McKittrick are “taking a break”, and a patient has died under mysterious circumstances. Life is complicated at the moment so when she’s attacked, her friends—and “on hold” fiancé come to the rescue. Andy may have his issues, but he’s never stopped loving Holly. When he hears someone is out to get her, he races to her side. Can they find a killer before the killer succeeds in sending Holly six feet under?

Dawn's Hidden Threat by Elizabeth Goddard
An Unexpected Search and Rescue uncovers a hidden threat. When Ridge Ledger’s SAR and avalanche dog discovers an injured woman, Ridge is surprised that she’s the woman who broke his heart two months ago---in California. Not Alaska. He doesn’t know why she’s not still in the Lower 48, and he’s caught off guard when she attacks him as if fighting for her life. He’s shocked to learn the woman he loved has forgotten him. Angie Harris—is that even her name? —can’t recall who she is. She doesn’t know whom to trust, except for the man who rescued her from a cold dark cave and a grizzly bear. But she can’t forget the face of the man who tried to kill her. Remembering the reason that she came to Alaska is vital to her survival, and as it turns out, Ridge’s survival too.

Point Blank by Lisa Harris
From USA Today Best-selling author, Lisa Harris, comes a novella that brings together fan-favorite characters from two of her series—Nikki Boyd, her husband Tyler, and Jack Spencer from her best-selling Nikki Boyd Files Series, and Madison James and Jonas Quinn from her more recent US Marshal Series. When one of Nikki’s teammates is killed during a routine training exercise at a shoot house, deadly secrets are revealed as evidence of murder surfaces. Now, the remaining team is caught up in a highly personal case that pulls them into a tangled web of deception as they race to find a killer.

Amazon / Goodreads

Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting

MY THOUGHTS

This collection contains four novellas from some of the top romantic suspense authors in the Christian fiction genre. All of the stories are connected to at least one of their series. I was worried I'd be lost with most of them since I haven't had the chance to read any of the series before, but that wasn't the case at all. I was completely invested and even more eager to check out the series these stories are connected to.

My favorites were Out of Time by Lynn H. Blackburn and Code Trauma by Lynette Eason. They were both super suspenseful and held my full attention from beginning to end. Elizabeth Goddard's story is a prequel to her forthcoming Missing in Alaska series and has an amnesia plotline. I'd recently read a couple of other mysteries that featured that same plot, so I was a little burned out on that trope. But it was an otherwise engaging story. Point Blank by Lisa Harris connects her Nikki Boyd and US Marshals series. I thought this one started out really strong, but the mystery took a bit of a convoluted turn. I enjoyed it nonetheless.

3.5 STARS

Review: Forgotten Secrets (Vanishing Ranch #1) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

FBI Special Agent Jesse Marx doesn’t know which is worse—waking up in a horse stable with no memories of the past several days or waking up to discover he’s wearing a wedding band. Not only has he been injured, but he’s also gotten hitched—something he vowed never to do.

Sienna Fleming refuses to feel a connection to any man, much less be tied down to one. But when she needs help solving a string of murders, Jesse is the only man she can turn to for help. Unfortunately, Jesse is ready to bolt. Considering the circumstances, she can’t blame him . . . but she also can’t let him go.

The two are roped into this together. . . for better or worse . . . because it will take a united effort to stop this killer before someone else dies.

Amazon / Goodreads

(Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting.)

MY THOUGHTS

The gripping prologue hooked me and what followed kept me glued to the pages. I thought the whole idea behind the ranch was really cool. I'm definitely interested in spending more time there and seeing even more of what they do.

I was instantly intrigued by Jesse. He was tough, rugged, and, yeah, a little stubborn, too. But I liked him a lot. It took me a while to warm up to Sienna. She was very secretive, and I never did fully understand why some of those things were kept secret for so long. But once she started opening up and things started being revealed, I ended up liking her.

There was some suspension of belief needed for some things, but overall, this was a good start to a new series. I'm looking forward to the next installment.

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

3.5 STARS

Review: Cold Clay (Shady Hollow #2) by Juneau Black

About the Book (From Goodreads)

The past won’t stay buried…

Deep in the forest is a place where woodland creatures live together in harmony. Moose and mice, owls and bears, and many more call Shady Hollow home.

When autumn comes to the village, thoughts turn to harvest time and the glorious feasts ahead. But in a far corner of Cold Clay Orchards, a rabbit reaps a more grisly crop: the bones of a moose.

Soon enough, the owner of Joe’s Mug is dragged out of his coffeeshop to the police station to answer questions about the long-ago night his wife disappeared. Joe always said she walked out, but now it looks more like murder.

Foxy reporter Vera Vixen can’t believe gentle Joe is a killer. She sets out to find the truth before Shady Hollow loses its favorite coffee-slinger. To get to the bottom of the matter, she has to dig into the past, and into the many secrets her neighbors would rather leave buried forever…

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This is such a fun series. Shady Hollow is a charming place filled with wonderful, vibrant characters. I didn't enjoy this story quite as much as the first one. For some reason, that tends to happen to me with sequels. I guess my expectations are always just a little off. That's not to say this was a bad book, though. I had a lot of fun with it. I just felt like it was missing some of that special and enchanting spark from the first one.

In the first book, I wondered what the deal was with Joe's wife. Where was she? What made her leave? Well, come to find out, she was murdered! Joe's looking like the prime suspect, but this gentle giant couldn't possibly be capable of such violence, could he? I did figure out the killer pretty early on, but the motive remained elusive for quite some time.

I'll definitely be checking out the next book. I'm invested in these characters' lives and am curious about what crime will pop up next. I recommend this series to people looking for a slower paced, whimsical mystery.

3.5 STARS

Review: Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen

About the Book

A steampunk retelling of Cinderella.

Emmeline O’Shea is determined to save the world—single-handedly, if necessary. A strong voice for societal reform, she is the natural choice to deliver a key speech at the end of the International Shifter Rights Organization’s week-long Summit in Scotland.

But when a death threat arrives at Emme’s home, she is immediately placed into protective custody, watched over by none other than her personal nemesis, Detective-Inspector Oliver Reed. The two have crossed paths many times, with disastrous results, but now they will have to work together in order to reach the Summit before midnight of the last day in order to ensure legislation is passed to protect the Shifter community.

As unseen enemies close in around Emme and Oliver, they struggle to reach Edinburgh by any means necessary, only to find Emme’s vindictive stepsister, Oliver’s vampire brother, and a dangerous political minefield awaiting them in Scotland.

Even more difficult is their own refusal to admit that the fiery animosity that once burned between them might be turning into the heat of romantic passion. Could a straitlaced policeman determined to uphold the law and an outspoken activist willing to break the rules ever find true love? Or will all their dreams shatter like glass when the clock strikes midnight?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was a fun read. The whole series has been a blast. I love a good retelling, and when you add steampunk into the mix, how can I resist?

This was probably my least favorite in the series, but in no way was it bad. I loved that Emme and Oliver finally got their happily ever after, and I enjoyed getting to see the previous characters. It was neat seeing what they were up to now. I did feel like the pacing was a little uneven at times, which made for a slower read than I expected. And while I felt like we got to know Emme really well, Oliver wasn't quite as fleshed-out and three-dimensional as her.

I loved all the nods to Cinderella. I thought the first part was a little light on the retelling aspect and I was beginning to wonder when the fairy tale parts were gonna show up. But they did eventually appear, and I thought they were cleverly done. (I loved Gus Gus!)

If you're a fan of steampunk, or just wanting to give it a try, I definitely recommend this series. I'd say start with book one, though. This one could probably technically stand alone, but there's a lot of backstory that would be missed out on. Plus, Beauty and the Clockwork Beast is one of my all-time favorite retellings.

3.5 STARS

Review: Secrets of Shame: The Colsons (Fog Lake Suspense #6) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

A killer has a promise to keep . . .

Attorney Isaac Colson only wants to put his tumultuous past in Fog Lake behind him and return to his life in Memphis. But when an ominous text threatens that he must come back or there will be deadly consequences, he knows he can’t take any chances.

Rebecca Moreno has only ever loved one man—her high school sweetheart, Isaac Colson. But when his dad went to prison for murder, Rebecca’s father forbade them from seeing each other again.

Years later, Isaac is back in town and old feelings are stirring. But Rebecca is harboring a secret that could change everything. When The Good Samaritan Killer strikes again, guilt pummels her. She has to tell Isaac the truth. But as events unfold, she has more to lose than ever.

Isaac and Rebecca must find answers—their lives depend on it. But everyone seems to have secrets, each that forms an obstacle to finding the truth . . . and to staying alive.

Amazon / Goodreads

Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting

MY THOUGHTS

The mystery surrounding the Good Samaritan Killer gripped me in LEGACY OF LIES and the intrigue continues in SECRETS OF SHAME.

Attorney Isaac Colson, son of alleged serial killer, receives a text from an unknown number saying, “Every day you're not in Fog Lake, someone will die”. It could be a prank, but what if it's not? He races back to his hometown just in the nick of time to save his ex-girlfriend, Rebecca Moreno, from a dire situation. Rebecca has a secret. One that would change everything. But because of threats to her family, she can't reveal it. Can these two come together and solve a mystery that's haunted the town for years?

I can't say that I ever really connected with Isaac or Rebecca. Even though Rebecca had a legitimate reason to stay quiet, I still got extremely frustrated by her silence. But despite all that, the questions swirling around about the Good Samaritan Killer kept me glued to the pages. I needed to know if the real killer was behind bars, or if he was set up. Was the actual culprit still on the loose and back to terrorize the town of Fog Lake? I was pleasantly surprised to find the answers to those questions.

I'd definitely recommend reading LEGACY OF LIES before this one. The other books in the Fog Lake series are optional, but great reads.

3.5 STARS

Review: The Inn on Hanging Hill (The Beach House Mystery Series #2) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

Lindsey Waters never wanted to return to the seaside inn where she grew up. Too many traumatic memories haunt the place, both from her childhood and from days gone by. But with guilt relentlessly chasing her after a tragic choice, she’s desperate for a fresh start.

Mysterious incidents begin plaguing the inn—dangerous incidents—that make it clear someone wants to scare Lindsey away. But why? Does it have anything to do with the two weeks missing from her memory when she was abducted at age twelve?

Childhood friend Benjamin Newsom seems like an answer to prayer when he shows up to work as a handyman. But something is different about him, something Lindsey can’t put her finger on. She’s certain Benjamin harbors secrets.

As peril continues to close in, Lindsey must decide if she wants to face her past or run. She doesn’t know whom she can trust, and whatever choices she makes will determine if she lives or if she becomes part of the inn’s tragic legacy.

Amazon / Goodreads

Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting.

MY THOUGHTS

The Inn on Hanging Hill was an intriguing mystery that had me racing through the pages. Even though it's book two, it stands alone just fine. There's no connection to the previous book.

Lindsey's come back to her childhood home to fix up her family's dilapidated old inn and sell it. Lots of bad memories are attached to the place, and she's ready to get rid of it. When she was a preteen, Lindsey went missing for two weeks, but she can't remember exactly what happened then. Her memories for those two weeks are gone. Now that she's back, it looks like the past may be coming back to haunt her when mysterious things start happening around the inn and she starts receiving threats.

I can't say that I ever really connected with the characters, and there was some suspension of belief needed in a couple of places, but the mystery kept me very interested. I was so curious about what was really going on, who the culprit was, and why they did it. I didn't figure it out until right before the reveal. There were definitely some twists and turns, and some surprises that I didn't see coming.

3.5 STARS

Review: Miss Knight and the Ghosts of Tsavo (Society For Paranormals #1) by Vered Ehsani

About the Book
Armed with Victorian etiquette, a fully loaded walking stick, and a dead husband, Beatrice Knight arrives in the small colonial town of Nairobi desperate for a pot of tea and a pinch of cinnamon. But she’ll need more than that if she’s to unravel the mystery of the Ghosts of Tsavo without being eaten in the process. She must survive the machinations of her best friend's dashing godfather and the efforts of her safari guide to feed her to any lion willing to drag her away. What is a ghost-chasing widow to do?

Miss Knight and the Ghosts of Tsavo is the first case in the “Society for Paranormals” series, in which a paranormal detective refuses to let danger, death, and unsolicited suitors inconvenience her in colonial Kenya. Welcome to a cozy mystery series concerning Victorian etiquette, African mythology, and the search for a perfect spot of tea.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was an entertaining, fun, and witty read. I read the prequel and loved the world building so much that I immediately had to start book one.

Widow Beatrice Knight and her disagreeable relatives must start a new life in Africa after financial ruin leaves them bankrupt and unable to afford life in London. Bee’s work as an investigator for the Society for Paranormals & Curious Animals continues though. Her unique ability to identify supernaturals by seeing the energy fields that surround them really comes in handy. She’s not even settled into her new abode before she’s faced with her first case in this new country. A pair of goat-eating ghost lions are wreaking havoc around town and Bee is tasked with stopping them.

I loved learning about all the African folklore. It was so fascinating and a nice change of pace from what's normally found in this genre. And I really enjoyed the author's 'Fact or Fiction' section at the end of the book. It was filled with some very interesting information.

This was very much an introductory book, setting everything up for future installments, so, at times, the pacing was a little slow. There was a lot of explaining going on, and the plot would meander around sometimes. But there was a lot of promise here. I did really enjoy the prequel and am excited to see what happens next.

3.5 STARS

Review: Mountain Survival by Christy Barritt

About the Book

An injured victim has disappeared…

Can a park ranger and her K-9 find him?

When search-and-rescue park ranger Autumn Mercer and her K-9 partner, Sherlock, meet a stranger in the mountains whose brother is injured, they drop everything to help. But all they find where Derek Peterson last saw his sibling is a trail of blood—and men who want them dead. With gunmen closing in, can Autumn and Derek survive long enough to save his brother?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Mountain Survival was another exciting, suspense-filled mystery from Christy Barritt. As I've come to expect from Barritt, it's fast-paced with the characters in an almost constant state of danger. Almost every chapter ended with a nail-biter of a situation, making me race through the pages as fast as I could.

My favorite character was search and rescue dog, Sherlock. He was loyal, brave, and hardworking. A scene-stealer, for sure! I didn't feel much of a connection with the human characters, though. Their romance developed a little too fast for my liking, but I guess that's to be expected in this type of book.

Although this wasn't my favorite book from Barritt, it was still an enjoyable and compelling read.

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

3.5 STARS

Review: Mistletoe and Murder: A Christmas Suspense Collection

About the Book

Silent Night, Deadly Night. Welcome to a Killer Christmas!

Danger and suspense await you this Christmas season in Mistletoe and Murder: A Christmas Suspense Collection featuring 10 individual novellas of suspense from some of today’s most talented Christian Suspense authors.

Come with us on a heart-racing journey through the holidays as USA Today, Christian Booksellers Association, and ECPA Bestselling authors Mary Alford, Adam Blumer, Liz Bradford, Vicki Hinze, Shaen Layle, Loree Lough, Nancy Mehl, Cara Putman, Lynn Shannon, and Virginia Vaughan, weave tales of suspense that will have you flipping pages well into the new year.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Mistletoe and Murder was a nice collection of suspense and mystery novellas that's perfect for the Christmas season. Like with most box sets, this was a mixed bag of stories that I enjoyed to varying degrees. There were stories I loved, stories that were okay, and some that just weren't my cup of tea. There were authors I was familiar with and others that were new to me, several that I'm eager to check out more stuff from. If you're a fan of suspense, give this collection a try. 

Dead of Winter by Mary Alford 
Deputy Ava Harper's brother goes missing in the middle of a blizzard and it's a race against time to find him.

I really need to read more from this author. I've read a couple of her novellas and liked them. This one was compelling and held my full attention. Though the main mystery was solved, there was a secondary one that wasn't, so I'll be looking for the next book to see how that turns out.

Death the Halls by Adam Blumer 
A family Christmas getaway to their cabin in the Michigan countryside turns deadly.

The first chapter pulled me right in, but my interest kinda waned for a bit after that. It did pull me back in after a little while, but the unrealistic and, at times, convoluted plot hindered my enjoyment.

Revenge Ignited (Knoxville FBI Prequel) by Liz Bradford
Newly appointed guardian to her nieces and nephew, Aliza Blake wants to make this Christmas special despite the tragedy of the past year. But a thief starts breaking into houses in her neighborhood and stealing Christmas gifts. Can Aliza solve the mystery and catch the bad guy before Christmas is ruined?

This story was okay. It was a bit slow paced and dragged in places, but I ended up enjoying it. I really liked how the characters leaned on God during their hardships.

The Marked Witness (A Shadow Watchers Story) by Vicki Hinze
A mother and daughter in witness protection find themselves in danger and call on an old friend for help.

This was a part of a series, one I haven't read, so I was worried I'd be lost, but that wasn't the case. There was a lot of good and interesting background information and I felt myself just fall right into the story. I was so invested. I definitely want to check out more of this author's work.

Ghost of Christmas Past by Shaen Layle
Mind games, a twisted trip down memory lane, and a kidnapped son made this suspense-filled novella hard to put down. It was one of my favorites of the collection. I'm definitely gonna be looking for more from this author.

The Confession of John Doe by Loree Lough
A man with no fingerprints is found on the side of the road. Nobody knows who he is and he'll play along, feigning amnesia for as long as he can, while hiding at an Amish community from the guys who roughed him up.

I don't read Amish fiction, so this story wasn't really my cup of tea. But it was well written and I'm sure people who enjoy Amish stories will love it.

Killing Christmas (A Pastor Pembroke Mystery) by Nancy Mehl
The Arkansas River Strangler is back after almost thirty years and is demanding that Pastor Pembroke tell his story or there will be dire consequences.

I enjoyed this story. It was kinda dark, but I really appreciated the little bits of humor sprinkled throughout. It helped to lighten the mood. The characters were great and I'd love to read more about them.

Deadly Drive by Cara Putman
After receiving a call informing her that her twin brother was murdered, Joci goes to D.C to identify his body. What follows next is a mad dash rush to find answers.

This story just reiterated the fact that I need to read more from this author. It was fast paced and intriguing. I was very invested in the outcome. And while somethings were a little confusing and unbelievable, I still really enjoyed it and found myself rushing to find out what was really going on.

Dangerous Christmas by Lynn Shannon
Holly Miller suspects she has a stalker and after narrowly escaping an attack, she's convinced. Can she find out who's stalking her and why before things turn deadly?

This was action-packed right from the get-go. It did slow down a bit in places, but that didn't make it any less engaging. The mystery was solid and had a shocking twist I didn't see coming. I thought the romance was very sweet, if a tad rushed. All in all, I liked it a lot and am excited to check out this author's other stuff. 

Yuletide Protector by Virginia Vaughan
When a woman with her name is murdered, Jenna Sloan knows she was the intended victim. She's been stalked and harassed by an ex and has to stop this before anyone else gets hurt.

A shocking opening chapter led to a fast-paced and danger-filled read. The plot was really good and held my interest, though there were a few times I felt like screaming at Jenna for some of her poor decisions. 

3.5 Stars

Review: The Storyteller's Daughter by Victoria McCombs

About the Book

His shadowed face lit by flames,
Rumpelstiltskin is my name...

For as long as anyone can remember, every child in Westfallen has been born with a Gift, and these Gifts defined them.

Then Cosette is born, Giftless.

An attempt to hide her misfortune brings her before the King, who entraps her to use her Gift as a pawn in his war.

Caught in a lie, Cosette desperately searches for a power strong enough to free her. Intrigued by whispers of an old king and a dark curse, she calls upon Rumpelstiltskin and finds him trapped in a magic deeper than she bargained for. Now, Cosette must fight to reclaim her freedom from the King and break Rumpel’s curse. When time runs out, she’ll lose more than her heart. She’ll lose her life.

THE STORYTELLER’S DAUGHTER is a Rumpelstiltskin retelling that will satisfy fans of Gail Carson Levine’s ELLA ENCHANTED, as well as Jessica Day George’s DRAGON SLIPPERS and PRINCESS OF GLASS, and Cameron Dokey’s THE WORLD ABOVE.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Every child born showed signs of a special talent that set them apart from each other. Everyone had a piece of magic in their souls.

Everyone except me.

What an imaginative Rumpelstiltskin retelling! I've read a lot of retellings but I don't think any of them have been about Rumpel. So this book was a nice change. I really enjoyed it!

My favorite character, by far, was Rumpel. (Seriously, how can you not love Rumpel?) But Cosette was likable too. She was kind and sweet, yet strong and courageous, not settling for anything less than what she believed she deserved. Did I always agree with the way she went about things? No, but it did make for an entertaining read.

If you're a fan of fairy tales, I recommend checking this one out. I'm eager to read the next book in the series, Woods of Silver and Light, which follows Cosette's sister Anika.

3.5 Stars

Review: Agnes at the End of the World by Kelly McWilliams

About the Book
The Handmaid's Tale meets Wilder Girls in this unique, voice-driven novel from Kelly McWilliams.

Agnes loves her home of Red Creek--its quiet, sunny mornings, its dusty roads, and its God. There, she cares tirelessly for her younger siblings and follows the town's strict laws. What she doesn't know is that Red Creek is a cult, controlled by a madman who calls himself a prophet.
Then Agnes meets Danny, an Outsider boy, and begins to question what is and isn't a sin. Her younger brother, Ezekiel, will die without the insulin she barters for once a month, even though medicine is considered outlawed. Is she a sinner for saving him? Is her sister, Beth, a sinner for dreaming of the world beyond Red Creek?

As the Prophet grows more dangerous, Agnes realizes she must escape with Ezekiel and leave everyone else, including Beth, behind. But it isn't safe Outside, either: A viral pandemic is burning through the population at a terrifying rate. As Agnes ventures forth, a mysterious connection grows between her and the Virus. But in a world where faith, miracles, and cruelty have long been indistinguishable, will Agnes be able to choose between saving her family and saving the world?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Agnes at the End of the World was an absolutely riveting read. Why is it that cults and potential world-ending viruses go so well together? This is at least the third book I've read with those elements and I enjoyed it. I couldn't read it fast enough.

Agnes is the kind of character who's easy to root for. She's doing what she feels is the right thing, yet still trying to remain true to her faith. It's not an easy journey for her, but what an incredible journey it was!

There were a few things that irritated me, and a couple...revelations, I guess you could call them, that were kinda baffling. I wish I could explain my issues in more detail, but to do so would be some major spoilers. Despite those issues, it was still a very captivating read that held my full attention. Kelly McWilliams is an author I'll definitely be watching for more from.

NOTE: This book does contain some strong language.

3.5 Stars

Review: Collateral Damage (Danger Never Sleeps #1) by Lynette Eason

About the Book

Honorably discharged from the Army after an explosion nearly killed her, former military psychiatrist Brooke Adams has set up shop to help others--but her days of helping military personnel are over. She's got her own battles to fight from her time overseas, and she's not equipped to take on more. Former Army Special Ops Sergeant First Class Asher James could handle anything that war sent his way--terrorists, bombs, bullets. The only thing that scares him now is sleep. As the shadows close in, the nightmares begin.

Finally convinced that he needs help, Asher makes an appointment with a counselor, and Brooke is pressed by her boss to take him on. When he arrives at her office she isn't there--but a dead body is. Brooke is devastated when she walks in, and Asher is a conveniently strong shoulder to cry on. But she can't take him on as a client after sharing such an intimate and unprofessional moment, can she? And he's not sure he can handle sharing his deepest fears with such a beautiful woman.

When it becomes clear that Brooke was the real target of the attack--and that her secrets go even deeper than his own--Asher vows to protect her no matter what.

Bestselling author Lynette Eason is back with a new series that spans the globe and
will have your heart working overtime.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Collateral Damage was an action-packed and exciting start to Lynette Eason's new Danger Never Sleeps series. It starts off with a bang and the lightning-fast pace doesn't let up until the end.

There's a big cast of characters, so it took me just a little while to get everyone straight and to figure out how all the different storylines connected. But once I did, I became even more invested and couldn't read it fast enough. There were quite a few shocking reveals I didn't see coming which made things even more intense. Dealing with a serious topic, it was disturbing, and quite chilling at times, but a very compelling read, nonetheless. I'm excited for the next book in the series.

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

3.5 Stars

Review: Kitty Confidential (Pet Whisperer PI #1) by Molly Fitz

About the Book

I was just your normal twenty-something with seven associate degrees and no idea what I wanted to do with my life. That is, until I died… Well, almost.

As if a near-death experience at the hands of an old coffeemaker wasn’t embarrassing enough, I woke up to find I could talk to animals. Or rather one animal in particular.

His full name is Octavius Maxwell Ricardo Edmund Frederick Fulton, but since that’s way too long for anyone to remember, I’ve taken to calling him Octo-Cat. He talks so fast he can be difficult to understand, but seems to be telling me that his late owner didn’t die of natural causes like everyone believes.

Well, now it looks like I no longer have a choice, apparently my life calling is to serve as Blueberry Bay’s first ever pet whisperer P.I while maintaining my façade as a paralegal at the offices of Fulton, Thompson & Associates.

I just have one question: How did Dr. Doolittle make this gig look so easy?

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

How cool would it be to talk to animals? I'd love to know what my dogs and goats are thinking. Well, in Kitty Confidential, after Angie Russo has a near death experience, she wakes up with the gift (or maybe curse?) of being able to communicate with animals. The first one being a cat who's owner has just died. The cat knows she was murdered and demands that Angie catch the culprit.

Kitty Confidential was a fun story. It was kinda ridiculous, but I had a good time reading it. The mystery was a little lacking for me, though. Angie's not the greatest detective, but I'm hopeful her skills will grow in the future. I've never been much of a cat person, but Octo-Cat was great. He's certainly spoiled, but he's so hilarious and is sweet in his own cat-like way. I'll be picking up a copy of the next book to see what happens next.

3.5 Stars

Review: A Desperate Hope (Empire State #3) by Elizabeth Camden

About the Book

Eloise Drake's prim demeanor hides the turbulent past she's finally put behind her--or so she thinks. A mathematical genius, she's now a successful accountant for the largest engineering project in 1908 New York. But to her dismay, her new position puts her back in the path of the man responsible for her deepest heartbreak.

Alex Duval is the mayor of a town about to be wiped off the map. The state plans to flood the entire valley where his town sits in order to build a new reservoir, and Alex is stunned to discover the woman he once loved on the team charged with the demolition. With his world crumbling around him, Alex devises a risky plan to save his town--but he needs Eloise's help to succeed.

Alex is determined to win back the woman he thought he'd lost forever, but even their combined ingenuity may not be enough to overcome the odds against them before it's too late.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

A Desperate Hope is book three in the Empire State series by Elizabeth Camden. This series has followed the Drake family and this time, it was cousin Eloise's turn in the spotlight.

I really liked Alex. He had such a fiery determination to help, to try to make things better and it was so easy to root for him. It took me a little while to warm up to Eloise. She was very much a strict rule follower and came off a bit cold at times. Knowing her past though, it made her attitude more understandable. I will say that I was a tad disappointed in the romance. The chemistry felt a bit lacking and things felt forced sometimes.

I really felt for the residents of Duval Springs. What was happening to them, to their homes, to their town, was just heartbreaking. But their undeniable hope was endearing and inspiring. It was a great reminder that when things look bleak, there's always hope.

I've really enjoyed this series and while this book was probably my least favorite of the bunch, it was still good. I'm really looking forward to reading whatever this author comes out with next.

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

3.5 Stars

Review: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

About the Book

Swept away by a cyclone from the Kansas prairies to the Land of Oz, Dorothy and her dog, Toto, must find their way home. Traveling to the Emerald City with a new band of friends—the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion—Dorothy’s fate is in the hands of a great and terrible wizard. But a wicked enemy stands in her way.

For readers familiar only with the iconic 1939 film, delightful surprises are in store along Baum’s original yellow brick road. Considered “America’s first fairy tale,” The Wonderful Wizard of Oz has found a home in the collective imagination of the entire world.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Of course I've seen the movie multiple times and if I'm being honest here, it was never one of my favorites. I have read and liked many retellings though.

Wicked was fantastic. I loved the idea that the Wicked Witch was just misunderstood. Dorothy Must Die was interesting because Dorothy was the villain. I mean, I knew it all along, but it was nice to finally have confirmation, lol. Emerald Illusion was a brilliant allegory. Seriously, that book was beautiful.

Despite reading so many retellings, I'd never read the original Wizard of Oz. I thought it was way past time to remedy that.

I enjoyed it, though I do think the first half was stronger than the second. That's where my interest kinda started to waver. I did find it really interesting to see how it differed from the movie.

I'm glad I can finally say that I've read The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. And now I want to go read Wicked again.

3.5 Stars

Review: Beneath the Sugar Sky (Wayward Children #3) by Seanan McGuire

About the Book
A stand-alone fantasy tale from Seanan McGuire's Alex-award winning Wayward Children series, which began in the Alex, Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Award-winning, World Fantasy Award finalist, Tiptree Honor List Every Heart a Doorway

Beneath the Sugar Sky, the third book in McGuire's Wayward Children series, returns to Eleanor West's Home for Wayward Children in a standalone contemporary fantasy for fans of all ages. At this magical boarding school, children who have experienced fantasy adventures are reintroduced to the "real" world.

When Rini lands with a literal splash in the pond behind Eleanor West's Home for Wayward Children, the last thing she expects to find is that her mother, Sumi, died years before Rini was even conceived. But Rini can’t let Reality get in the way of her quest – not when she has an entire world to save! (Much more common than one would suppose.)

If she can't find a way to restore her mother, Rini will have more than a world to save: she will never have been born in the first place. And in a world without magic, she doesn’t have long before Reality notices her existence and washes her away. Good thing the student body is well-acquainted with quests...

A tale of friendship, baking, and derring-do.

Warning: May contain nuts.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Beneath the Sugar Sky was a diverse, whimsical tale and the third story set in Seanan McGuire's fascinating Wayward Children series.

It's a bit on the lighter side of things and not as creepy as the previous two books. I guess that's not too surprising though when dealing with the sugary sweet land of Confection.

I will say that it was a bit of a slower read for me. I enjoyed it, but I wasn't rushing to finish it like I usually do with McGuire's books.

I appreciated the fact that some serious topics were touched upon, one of them being body image issues. It was refreshing to see the way McGuire handled it.

If you're looking for some twisted, modern fairy tales, definitely check out this series.

NOTE: This book does contain strong language.

3.5 Stars