Review: A Refuge in Montana (Three Sisters Rescue Farm) by Allie Pleiter

SYNOPSIS

In Big Sky Country,
Sometimes forgiveness takes the most courage…

For her son’s sake, widowed veterinarian Vicky Siden works hard to pretend all is well. But the arrival of game warden Nick Youngston at her family’s animal rescue—with a horse and donkey in tow—changes everything. With three-year-old Taylor eager to help Nick rehab Buddy and Dunk, Vicky can’t avoid her late husband’s best friend, who she’s always blamed for his death. Nor can Nick avoid the real reason he’s in town. As old wounds resurface and feelings spark to life, facing the truth could keep them apart—or lead to an unexpected second opportunity at love.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

“Of all the unpleasant, unwanted surprises in Vicky Siden’s life, few topped the sight of the man standing in front of her.”

This was a really sweet and heartwarming story of grief, hope, and forgiveness.

There was a lot of history and hurt between Vicky and Nick. He was her husband’s best friend, and she blames him for his death. When he brings a neglected donkey and horse to the Three Sisters Rescue Farm for some rehabilitation, they have a chance to hash things out. I was really rooting for them to work things out.

Vicky’s son Taylor was adorable. And I loved Dunk the donkey and Buddy the horse. I liked seeing Taylor’s sweet relationship with the animals.

I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet and inspiring contemporary romance. Even though it’s part of a series, it stands alone perfectly fine.

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

FOUR STARS

Review: Scent of Peril (National Park Protectors Book 3) by Darlene L. Turner

SYNOPSIS

An innocent witness taken…
A K-9 in hot pursuit.

Dispatched with her K-9 partner, Shadow, to locate an abducted boy, Constable Taylor Grant finds herself ambushed in the wilderness along with Wyatt Hoyt, the child’s father. As Taylor and Wyatt relentlessly pursue the kidnappers and follow the little boy’s cryptic clues through treacherous terrain, they face persistent attacks and lethal traps. Each step closer to rescuing young Levi uncovers a deadly conspiracy tied to Wyatt’s past and a weapons-smuggling ring. With time running out, can they outwit a ruthless mastermind to save Levi before it’s too late?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I loved this action-packed romantic suspense! There was hardly a dull moment. The danger kept intensifying, which made this book impossible to put down. I flew through the pages.

I really liked Taylor and Wyatt. They were exes, but I liked how they were able to come together to find and protect his son. There were still obvious feelings between the two. They had amazing chemistry despite the tense circumstances. Shadow, Taylor’s K-9, was awesome, and Wyatt’s son Levi was adorable.

I had a pit in my stomach for parts of this book. There were many times I forgot this was a fictional book. It felt so real that I found myself praying for these characters.

I loved the strong message of faith to let go, surrender, and trust God. It was really powerful. If you’re a fan of inspirational romantic suspense, don’t hesitate to grab a copy of this book. I highly recommend it! It’s fantastic!

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

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Scent of Peril (National Park Protectors Book 3) by Darlene L. Turner

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. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 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. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Scent of Peril (National Park Protectors Book 3) by Darlene L. Turner. 

SYNOPSIS

An innocent witness taken…
A K-9 in hot pursuit.

Dispatched with her K-9 partner, Shadow, to locate an abducted boy, Constable Taylor Grant finds herself ambushed in the wilderness along with Wyatt Hoyt, the child’s father. As Taylor and Wyatt relentlessly pursue the kidnappers and follow the little boy’s cryptic clues through treacherous terrain, they face persistent attacks and lethal traps. Each step closer to rescuing young Levi uncovers a deadly conspiracy tied to Wyatt’s past and a weapons-smuggling ring. With time running out, can they outwit a ruthless mastermind to save Levi before it’s too late?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Silence blanketed the normally bustling wilderness of Teragoose National Park, Newfoundland. Odd.

Friday 56

Taylor extracted a butter knife from the utensil drawer with her shaky fingers and took several cleansing breaths to calm her shattered nerves.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Trail of Mountain Secrets (National Park Protectors Book 2) by Darlene L. Turner

About the Book

A case of mistaken identity.
A K-9 to the rescue.

Park archaeologist Violet Hoyt’s wilderness search for a missing family’s remains takes a deadly turn when a gunman mistakes her for someone else. The discovery of a grave of skulls reopens a cold case, and someone is determined to keep the truth hidden. With the help of K-9 handler Maverick Shaw and his human-remains-detector dog, Wolf, Violet must find the final family member—and evade the masked man who has targeted her. Soon Violet learns a shocking secret: She has a presumed dead twin sister who may still be alive, and now they’re both in danger. Can Violet and Maverick expose a conspiracy before this Christmas becomes their last?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This book was so good! Action-packed, full of wonderful characters, an intriguing mystery, and a great message of faith, I loved every minute of it!

I’ve always been fascinated by archaeology, so I thought Violet’s job was interesting. I wouldn’t have minded even more scenes about it. I really liked Maverick, and I thought his K-9, Wolf, was very impressive.

This is one of the fastest-paced stories I’ve read in a long time. It was almost nonstop action. Things were so exciting and moved so fast that, at times, I could hardly catch my breath! The characters couldn’t seem to catch a break. It was one thing right after another. Danger upon danger! I couldn’t read fast enough!

If you’re a fan of high-stakes romantic suspense with a strong message of faith, you’ll love this book! I highly recommend it! And even though it’s book two in the series, it can stand alone perfectly fine.

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

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Trail of Mountain Secrets (National Park Protectors Book 2) by Darlene L. Turner

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. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 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. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Trail of Mountain Secrets (National Park Protectors Book 2) by Darlene L. Turner.

About the Book

A case of mistaken identity.
A K-9 to the rescue.

Park archaeologist Violet Hoyt’s wilderness search for a missing family’s remains takes a deadly turn when a gunman mistakes her for someone else. The discovery of a grave of skulls reopens a cold case, and someone is determined to keep the truth hidden. With the help of K-9 handler Maverick Shaw and his human-remains-detector dog, Wolf, Violet must find the final family member—and evade the masked man who has targeted her. Soon Violet learns a shocking secret: She has a presumed dead twin sister who may still be alive, and now they’re both in danger. Can Violet and Maverick expose a conspiracy before this Christmas becomes their last?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Searching for a skull in the dangerous northern tip of Asterbine National Park wasn't where park archeologist Violet Hoyt wanted to be six days before Christmas, but her leader had tasked her to find the other Hancock family member who'd been missing for two years.

Friday 56

The sound of stomping hooves and horse whinnies filtered through the barn, drowning out the music.

Wolf barked, then growled.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Danger in the Wilderness (National Park Protectors Book 1) by Darlene L. Turner

About the Book

A search for a kidnapped camper

could cost them their lives.

Park warden Dekker Hoyt’s father-son camping trip turns into a nightmare when a serial killer abducts his father. With just seventy-two hours to find him, Dekker turns to criminal investigative analyst Blaire Tremblay to identify the Park Campfire Killer. As they follow his taunting clues and face increasingly violent threats, Dekker and Blaire know that one wrong step could be fatal. With the ruthless criminal following their every move, can they stop a killer in hiding…waiting to complete his deadly plan?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
National Park Protectors

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Y’all! Danger in the Wilderness was so good! This high-stakes, fast-paced romantic suspense held me in its grip from the first page to the very last. It’s one of the most intense and anxiety-inducing stories I’ve read in a long time. I absolutely loved it!

There was a sense of danger and urgency that poured out of the pages. There were times when I forgot I was reading about fictional characters. Their emotions felt so real. The danger and harrowing situations they were in felt so real. I was so worried for them.

Speaking of those characters, I really liked Dekker and Blaire. I thought Blaire’s job as a profiler was really interesting. I loved watching Dekker’s faith grow.

My mind was working overtime trying to figure out who the serial killer was. I had so many theories but was completely shocked by the final reveal. I didn’t see that coming!

If you’re a fan of high-stakes, faith-filled romantic suspense, grab a copy of this book. You won’t be disappointed. I loved it!

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

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Danger in the Wilderness (National Park Protectors Book 1) by Darlene L. Turner

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. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 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. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Danger in the Wilderness (National Park Protectors Book 1) by Darlene L. Turner. It releases August 26 and I should have my review up then. I loved it! 

About the Book

A search for a kidnapped camper

could cost them their lives.

Park warden Dekker Hoyt’s father-son camping trip turns into a nightmare when a serial killer abducts his father. With just seventy-two hours to find him, Dekker turns to criminal investigative analyst Blaire Tremblay to identify the Park Campfire Killer. As they follow his taunting clues and face increasingly violent threats, Dekker and Blaire know that one wrong step could be fatal. With the ruthless criminal following their every move, can they stop a killer in hiding…waiting to complete his deadly plan?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
National Park Protectors

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Park Warden Dekker Hoyt tensed and scanned the area in Clovercross National Park after closing the news alert. He pocketed his cell phone, the headline tormenting his mind. Park Campfire Killer Strikes Again. The serial killer had struck parks and wilderness regions across the Yukon, kidnapping campers before killing them three days later.

Friday 56

The door creaked open, jolting Blaire awake. She fought to clear both her foggy brain and her blurred vision. Dreams of bears and drowning had sucked her under, holding her hostage in the dream world.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: A Montana-Sized Secret by Allie Pleiter

About the Book

Can she trust him again

For the sake of their baby?

Returning to High Mountain pregnant is not the fresh start Carly Davis imagined—nor is telling Jack Peters he’s the father. And with Jack in the early stages of addiction recovery, she questions if he can handle being a parent. But Jack is determined to show that he’s changed, and a chance to prove himself arises when they must care for a litter of rescued baby bunnies. Trust slowly builds between them again, but as unexpected news threatens their fragile bond, can they overcome the uncertainties to be the family they both need?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

“Don’t tell God the size of your problem, tell your problem the size of God.”

I absolutely loved this heartfelt and touching story. Serious and hard topics were discussed and handled with grace.

Jack had a lot to make up for, a lot of apologies and mending of relationships to do. I appreciated the fact that he owned up to his mistakes and was trying to make amends. It was good to see him actively trying to be a better man.

Carly had a lot to deal with. There were a lot of things weighing heavily on her mind. The worry of judgment from friends, family, the small town she lived in, her fractured relationship with Jack, and the disappointment she felt in herself. I really felt for her and was rooting her on.

I thought working together with the bunnies and then at VBS was a great way for Jack and Carly to break the ice again. I appreciated that there were some lighter moments amidst the serious topics. I thought there was a nice balance. I loved watching their faith grow and learning to lean on God.

I loved this story of second chances and new beginnings. If you’re a fan of touching, heartfelt, and emotional Christian fiction, you’ll love it too! I can’t recommend it highly enough!

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

FIVE STARS

Review: Buried Wilderness Secrets by Jaime Jo Wright

About the Book

Uncovering cold case secrets

could be deadly…

Montana park ranger Aaliyah Terrence finds a serial killer’s burial ground—and narrowly survives the brutal attack that follows. And when cold case detective Wade Marlowe reveals that her birth mother was the murderer’s first victim, it soon becomes clear that Aaliyah has been marked as his next target. As their search into the past reveals old skeletons and puts Aaliyah in ever-increasing danger, she’ll have to rely on Wade to keep her safe. But will they discover the killer’s identity before she meets the same end as her mother?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

She wasn’t supposed to find human bones in the wilderness.

I’m so excited Jaime Jo Wright is branching out into a new genre! I love her Gothic dual timelines, so I was very eager to check out this Love Inspired Suspense. It did not disappoint! I loved it!

Aaliyah becomes the target of a dangerous killer after she and her dog stumble upon his secret burial grounds. Wade, a detective, thinks this could be connected to a cold case he’s working on. He also thinks there’s a personal connection to Aaliyah. After getting off on the wrong foot, they reluctantly join forces to try to solve the case before Aaliyah becomes the next victim.

I really liked Aaliyah and Wade. I also loved Aaliyah’s dog, Peaches. She was such an awesome canine friend.

The mystery kept me hooked and reading as fast as I could. I had my suspicions about who the guilty party was, but there were a couple of other suspects I was suspicious of, so I wasn’t sure until right before the reveal.

If you’re looking for a romantic suspense that will keep you on your toes, grab a copy of this book. You won’t be disappointed. I’m looking forward to more stories in this genre from Jaime Jo Wright.

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

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Buried Wilderness Secrets 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 Buried Wilderness Secrets by Jaime Jo Wright releasing July 29. This is a new genre for Wright and I'm so excited to check it out! 

About the Book

Uncovering cold case secrets

could be deadly…

Montana park ranger Aaliyah Terrence finds a serial killer’s burial ground—and narrowly survives the brutal attack that follows. And when cold case detective Wade Marlowe reveals that her birth mother was the murderer’s first victim, it soon becomes clear that Aaliyah has been marked as his next target. As their search into the past reveals old skeletons and puts Aaliyah in ever-increasing danger, she’ll have to rely on Wade to keep her safe. But will they discover the killer’s identity before she meets the same end as her mother?

From Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Rescue on the Farm by Allie Pleiter

About the Book

They weren’t looking for love

But these puppies will bring them together

Police officer Grant Emerson’s temporary trip home is turning into a disaster. Instead of selling the family farm, his mom and aunts have opened an animal shelter—and already rescued several puppies! When neighboring single mother Meg Kittering offers to help, the matchmaking sisters are convinced she can cure Grant’s grumpiness, despite his protests. But behind Meg’s sunny smiles are struggles Grant can relate to. They’re both in need of love…but can they help each other accept it?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

This was another great story from Allie Pleiter. Full of wonderful characters, adorable puppies, a gorgeous setting, and a swoony romance, I was hooked!

Grant is exactly the kind of lovable grump that I enjoy reading about. And Meg is exactly the type of sunshine that he needed. Meg's kids were adorable. I loved how they brought out the softer side of Grant. And I loved seeing Meg's generosity despite having her own problems.

I thought the Three Sisters Rescue Farm was such a cool idea. I loved reading about all of the puppies, especially Daisy. I'm so glad this is the start of a new series. I can't wait to visit the farm again! If you're looking for an inspiring and heartfelt romance, grab a copy of this book. I highly recommend it.

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

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Rescue on the Farm by Allie Pleiter

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. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 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. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Rescue on the Farm by Allie Pleiter. This was a really sweet romance. It releases Tuesday, so I should have my review up then. 

About the Book

They weren’t looking for love

But these puppies will bring them together

Police officer Grant Emerson’s temporary trip home is turning into a disaster. Instead of selling the family farm, his mom and aunts have opened an animal shelter—and already rescued several puppies! When neighboring single mother Meg Kittering offers to help, the matchmaking sisters are convinced she can cure Grant’s grumpiness, despite his protests. But behind Meg’s sunny smiles are struggles Grant can relate to. They’re both in need of love…but can they help each other accept it?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Meg Kittering watched the enormous dark-eyed man yank open the diner door and then practically fill the doorway. He scanned the Sundial Diner until he found her. Glaring in a way that somehow made his eyes even darker, he walked straight to her.

Friday 56

Half the diner lights were off, but the strings of lights hadn't yet been unplugged. Bright and cheery by day, the shadows and tiny golden bulbs made the diner seem ... romantic. As if they were having dessert at a cozy restaurant. As if they were on a date.

Which they were not. Funny how she kept having to remind herself that.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: For the Sake of Her Sons by Allie Pleiter

About the Book

Fear has been holding them back

But love can open any door…

Healing from a tragedy has been challenging for Willa Scottson. And not even Camp True North Springs seems to ease the pain. But photographer and swim instructor Bruce Lawrence is determined to help the grieving widow and her twin boys, for their sake—and for his. Carrying his own sorrow and guilt, this is his chance to make amends, if Willa will let him once the truth comes out…

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

True North Springs

Book 1: Restoring Their Family
Book 2: The Nurse's Homecoming
Book 3: For the Sake of Her Sons

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / ChristianBook.com / Kobo / Walmart / Goodreads / Author's Website

MY THOUGHTS

I loved this story! Allie Pleiter’s books always make me feel the full spectrum of emotions. I don’t know how she does it, but there’s always some aspect of her books that I can relate to and a spiritual message that I need to hear. I loved how this story dealt with facing fears and finding courage.

I enjoyed visiting Camp True North Springs again. It’s such a special and inspiring place where families can go to help them deal with the grief of losing a loved one to tragedy.

I liked Bruce right from the start. There was a gentleness about him that really drew me to him. He was so kind and patient with Willa’s twin boys, Joe and Jack. Willa had some sharp edges, which was completely understandable considering what she'd been through. And I know firsthand how fear can do that to a person. I ended up really liking her and was rooting for her to overcome her fears.

All in all, this was another heartwarming and sweet story by Allie Pleiter. If you’re a fan of this genre, you’ll love this book!

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

FIVE STARS

Review: The Nurse's Homecoming (True North Springs Book 3) by Allie Pleiter

About the Book

A temporary position…

Or the beginning of happily-ever-after?

Camp True North Springs is everything nurse Bridget Nicholson needs: a new start after her broken engagement and the opportunity to help grieving families heal—despite her overbearing father’s disapproval. But no one warned Bridget that she’d be working with her ex-boyfriend, Carson Todd…or that another shot at love might be exactly what she needs.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I absolutely loved this second chance, opposites-attract romance. It was such a heartwarming and inspirational read.

Camp True North Springs is such a wonderful and special place. It's a place of healing and rest for families who are dealing with the traumatic loss of a loved one. My heart really went out to those families. They were dealing with so much, but the camp was a much-needed bright spot for them.

The characters were authentic and easy to like. (Well, except for Bridget's dad. He was a real pill! And that's putting it mildly!) Bridget was kind, resilient, and still trying to get out of her dad's imposing shadow. Carson was a genuinely nice and caring guy. While Bridget's family was wealthy, Carson was perceived as poor and unambitious by her dad, who always wanted more for her.

This story took some surprising turns and kept me thoroughly entertained from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to fans of inspirational contemporary romance.

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

FIVE STARS

Review: Recovered Secrets by Jessica R. Patch

About the Book

When a woman with amnesia is targeted by assassins, a Mississippi detective is out to piece together her past in this inspirational romantic thriller.

Two years ago, Grace Thackery washed up on a small-town Mississippi riverbank with no memory of who she was or how she got there. But now she has just discovered the first clue about her past: someone wants her dead. And while search-and-rescue director Hollis Montgomery is determined to protect her, the secrets of her mysterious life are darker than they expected. Can the bond between Grace and Hollis survive her true identity . . . and an assassin?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

What a thrill ride! This book was fast-paced and impossible to put down. The story took so many surprising turns, and I never knew what would happen next.

The amnesia trope is always hit or miss for me, so I went into this story with a slight bit of trepidation. No need to worry though, this was very well executed. I was immediately invested in Grace's life and intrigued about her past. With every new memory that surfaced, more questions were raised, and I couldn't read fast enough. I had to know the truth about who she really was.

If you're a fan of romantic suspense, you're sure to enjoy this story. I'm looking forward to reading more from Jessica R. Patch. She's quickly becoming one of my favorite authors in this genre.

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Recovered Secrets by Jessica R. Patch

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. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday.

This week I'm featuring Recovered Secrets by Jessica R. Patch.

About the Book

When a woman with amnesia is targeted by assassins, a Mississippi detective is out to piece together her past in this inspirational romantic thriller.

Two years ago, Grace Thackery washed up on a small-town Mississippi riverbank with no memory of who she was or how she got there. But now she has just discovered the first clue about her past: someone wants her dead. And while search-and-rescue director Hollis Montgomery is determined to protect her, the secrets of her mysterious life are darker than they expected. Can the bond between Grace and Hollis survive her true identity . . . and an assassin?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Grace Thackery was living on a borrowed name; she'd lost every single memory prior to the past year and a half since she'd awakened from a six-month coma.

Friday 56

Hollis put a finger to his lips, then motioned with two fingers his intent to sneak up on whoever had kicked in the door and disable him.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch

About the Book

When a cold-case serial killer returns, FBI special agent Fiona Kelly has one last chance to stop him before he claims the prize he’s always wanted—her.

The sight of a goose feather at a murder scene modeled after a children’s poem is enough to make FBI special agent Fiona Kelly's blood turn to ice. Almost two decades ago, a feather was left with her sister's body—and with every subsequent victim of the Nursery Rhyme Killer. Now he's back. Only this time, his latest gruesome murder is a message to the only one who ever got away: Fiona.

Finding “Rhyme” is an obsession that's fueled Fiona's career—and destroyed her marriage to fellow FBI agent Asa Kodiak. Now Fiona and Asa have to put their past tensions aside and work together one last time. But Rhyme is watching, and catching this killer may force Fiona to reveal her biggest, darkest secret…the one only he knows.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Wow! I'm struggling to find the words to describe just how fantastic this book was. It's one of the best I've read this year so far. It's downright chilling and features one of the creepiest villains I've ever read about. I was invested from the first page and couldn't read fast enough. There were twists and turns galore. Many I never saw coming. I had lots of suspicions about who Rhyme really was. I thought I had it figured out a couple of times, but, in the end, was utterly shocked by the reveal. It was so good!

I liked Fiona and Asa right off the bat. While Fiona could be a bit abrasive at times, it was never off-putting. And Asa was really working on himself. Trying to be a better person. I loved watching him grow in his faith. Speaking of faith, there was a very strong, powerful, and inspiring message here, which I loved!

I can't recommend this book highly enough. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys romantic suspense, especially fans of Nancy Mehl and Irene Hannon.

FIVE STARS

FAVORITE QUOTES:

It was Fiona’s job to expose the darkness. Bring light back to families—that’s what they hoped for. Some kind of good to come from the surrounding evil.

I’m certainly not implying God orchestrated this evil—He didn’t. But maybe He’s taking what was meant for evil and doing something good.

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch

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. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday.

This week I'm featuring Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch. I can't say enough good things about it. It's so creepy, yet so good! 

About the Book

When a cold-case serial killer returns, FBI special agent Fiona Kelly has one last chance to stop him before he claims the prize he’s always wanted—her.

The sight of a goose feather at a murder scene modeled after a children’s poem is enough to make FBI special agent Fiona Kelly's blood turn to ice. Almost two decades ago, a feather was left with her sister's body—and with every subsequent victim of the Nursery Rhyme Killer. Now he's back. Only this time, his latest gruesome murder is a message to the only one who ever got away: Fiona.

Finding “Rhyme” is an obsession that's fueled Fiona's career—and destroyed her marriage to fellow FBI agent Asa Kodiak. Now Fiona and Asa have to put their past tensions aside and work together one last time. But Rhyme is watching, and catching this killer may force Fiona to reveal her biggest, darkest secret…the one only he knows.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

"Here, kitty, kitty." His voice echoed through the forest.

Friday 56

Fiona's pulse was off the charts but she concentrated on the road, gripping the wheel and refusing to imagine the worst. She was pushing 100 miles an hour on the interstate and it didn't feel fast enough.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Restoring Their Family by Allie Pleiter

About the Book

A three-week retreat…

Could be life changing

Kate Hoyle came to Camp True North Springs to help her grieving children heal. She definitely didn’t come here to fall in love. But camp chef Seb Costa, working through a recovery of his own, soon cooks his way into the affections of Kate’s family—especially that of her troubled son. Would risking her heart when it’s barely mended be foolish? Or will they find the happiness they all deserve?

A TRUE NORTH SPRINGS ROMANCE

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I absolutely loved this story. No surprise there, though. Allie Pleiter never fails to deliver a heartwarming and romantic tale full of wonderful characters and a gorgeous setting.

Camp True North Springs is a special place. It's a place for families who have experienced a traumatic loss to visit and hopefully heal from the tremendous amount of grief they're going through. Kate and her two kids, Kent and Kimmy, are there for a three-week stay to deal with the grief over the tragic killing of her husband.

I instantly fell for Seb. His care and concern towards Kimmy's severe food allergies really endeared him to me. I have quite a few severe allergies, so it was great to see someone taking them seriously. I also loved seeing his connection to Kent. You could really tell that he cared and wanted to help Kent through his grief. He became the perfect sounding board and support system for the grieving boy. I liked Kate a lot too. She was a strong woman who was dealing with a lot but was trying her absolute best for her kids.

This story deals with serious topics, such as grief and addiction, with grace and compassion. I can't recommend it highly enough!

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

FIVE STARS

Review: A Place to Heal by Allie Pleiter

About the Book

She’s found the perfect place for her camp.
But will he agree to her terms?

Opening a camp for children who’ve dealt with tragedy is former police detective Dana Preston’s main goal in life. After wandering the country, she’s finally found the perfect location—Mason Avery’s expansive Arizona mountainside property. Convincing the widowed dad—and the town—to agree might take a little prayer and a lot of hard work. But Dana’s never backed down from a challenge yet…

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I really enjoyed this story. That's not a surprise, though, since I've loved every single book I've read by Allie Pleiter. This one was a heartfelt and emotional story full of genuine characters and a stunning setting.

I thought what Dana was trying to do was so noble, and I loved the whole idea of the camp. She's trying to bring a little light to kids who've been through some seriously dark times, and I was rooting so hard for her to succeed. Mason was understandably wary of the idea to begin with. He's been so isolated since the death of his wife, so it was great to watch him slowly open up more and venture back into the town. And his son Charlie was such an adorable little kid. I wanted the absolute best for him. I can't fail to mention the Busketeers. They were such an awesome group of townies and probably one of my favorite parts of the book.

If you're looking for a sweet romance set in a small town, I highly recommend this book. I'm so excited for the next one!

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

FOUR STARS