Review of The String by Caleb Breakey

The Conductor is in charge of all those he chooses. Markus Haas is now one of his players, but bucks against everything the Conductor wants him to do. Markus, the campus cop that law enforcement doesn't really believe in, takes it upon himself to track down who the conductor is before time runs out and those he loves are killed. 

This story was intense!! From the opening chapter, I wasn't sure I was going to be able to read it, but yet, I could not put this book down. Not one I could read at night thought. Filled with suspense like I haven't read before, this book grips you page after page. I had to slow myself down several times so I wouldn't miss anything. Graphic at times with the violence, but this story was riveting, creative and unbelievable good. Caleb Breakey knocked it out of the park with this fantastic masterpiece! Talk about a page turner that gives you chills but yet you just have to find out what happens.

If you enjoy intense suspense, you will love this book. A page turner that will make your insides knot and unknot time after time. And this is book 1! I can't wait for the 2nd one to come out!

Revell Reads sent me this complimentary book to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Light from Distant Stars by Shawn Smucker

Cohen Marah's life starts to relive itself after he finds his father bleeding on the floor of their business. Events from the past start to blend in with every day life and he begins to piece it all together to make sense of everything. He lives the past and the present all at the same time in trying to figure out what happened to his father.

Shawn Smucker wrote an excellent story. Full of color and darkness, light and forgiveness. The back of the book says "Master story weaver" and this is 100% accurate. What a story! Chalked full of what family really looks like, what forgiveness looks like, what love looks like. It's not all pretty, tied up with a bow. It's messy and hurtful and raw, yet beautiful, meaningful and redemptive. Smucker does an exceptional job with this story of what true redemption looks like. From the characters to the story line that jumps from the past to the present, he created a work of art in this book.

I think anyone would enjoy this book. With a bit of good vs. evil in there and light vs. darkness, it makes for a capturing read that you won't want to put down.

Revell Reads sent me this complimentary book to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of All Manner of Things by Susie Finkbeiner

Set during the Vietnam War, Annie Jacobson's life is about to change forever. With her brother deployed to the war and her estranged father showing up in her life after leaving years earlier, Annie is on a journey that will change her life forever.

When I started reading this book, the phrase that kept coming to me of how it was written was: lyrical. There is a certain type of lilt to how Susie writes her books that seems whimsical, but yet something hidden just beneath the words that takes you on the journey of the characters. There's a mysterious depth to how she weaves the story and a thread that holds the story together when at the end a beautiful picture is created. I thoroughly enjoy Susie's writing as it is fresh but yet poignant and still down to earth. I enjoy how the characters were developed throughout as you feel like you could've been friends with them. Great job Susie!!

Revell Books sent me this copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own. And I strongly encourage you to read this book and Susie's other books. Check out her website here!

Review of Wooing Cadie McCaffrey by Bethany Turner

Cadie has her list of what her dream guy would look like. Then she banishes the list and thinks no one is out there for her. Then Will enters her life. And he becomes everything she ever thought until one misunderstanding. One mistake. One journey that took a hard turn and Cadie found herself on a different path of learning who she was, how to allow God to forgive her, how to forgive herself and how to move on from life choices.

Bethany Turner does it again. The first thing I noticed about this book was the cover. I knew I wanted to read it based solely on the cover. And having read Bethany's previous book, I knew this one would not disappoint. With a whimsical writing style, Bethany takes a situation that can have devastating affects on the heart, on relationships, and on ones self and turns it into a redemption story of how God forgives us. This story is so down to earth, so "normal", so every day living. And it's amazing. I really did not want this book to end as it just made your heart feel good. You found yourself rooting for the characters to figure it out because you just know they can and restoration CAN happen. What a great book to remind the reader that no matter the mistake, the misunderstanding, the hurt, that God ultimately wants you to draw close to him and he wants to restore and redeem.

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Living Lies by Natalie Walters

Imagine battling your own mind and trying to hold it all together for everyone around you. This is the life for Lane Kent. Her husband has died, her father is holding it over her head, she's running a cafe, and she finds a dead body of a teenage girl. As Lane battles her own demons, she is forced to work with the new deputy in town, Charlie Lynch. As the plot thickens and those she loves become in danger, the hunt is on for the killer who is wreaking havoc on an entire town.

This is the first book I have read by Natalie Walters and it did not disappoint! This was book one in the Harbored Series. What a fantastic story line with amazing characters and a plot that just keeps twisting throughout. It was link a layer was added on to another layer and then another and soon you have a depth to a mystery that you hope gets solved by the end! The element of romance, of forgiveness, of faith and of struggles that people face daily in the real world were all balanced just right throughout this book. It was a hard to put down and I grabbed it every chance I got to find out what happened next! I look forward to book 2 when it comes out!

Revell Reads sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Edge Over There by Shawn Smucker

This book was a very different style that I usually read. I chose it at first because the cover was eye catching and it sounded interesting. While the writing was fantastic right from the start with descriptive words and characters, it was a bit difficult to get in to. Realizing that this is the 2nd book, it would be good for anyone who would like to read this book to read the 1st book The Day the Angels Fell. While this was my first distopian/fantasty book by Revell, it was a bit hard to get through without reading the first book. I look forward to reading the first book and then trying this book again. Shawn Smucker has quite the talent with his way with words and I look forward to reading any book he writes in the future!

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Justice Delivered by Patricia Bradley

Carly Smith has escaped a horrific entrapment of the sex slave industry and is trying to lead a normal life. That is until her previous life comes back to present and she is forced to relive it all over again when one of her clients brings up a similar story of Carly's past. Determined to bring the man that sold her in to sex trafficking, she returns to her home town, but with a different identity. Detective Logan Donovan feels like he knows this new lady who has mysteriously arrived in his home town, but isn't able to pinpoint where from. As Carly's life becomes in danger and her niece is kidnapped by the same sex traffickers that kidnapped Carly years before, Carly needs to trust the one cop in her life who can keep her safe before it's too late.

Patricia Bradley does it again in creating a gripping novel that keeps the reader flipping page after page until the very end. This book is part of the Memphis Cold Case Novel series, but is easily a stand alone book. Ride the waves of suspense as Bradley takes you on a fast paced journey of Carly Smith and her life of escaping sex trafficking. Bradley, as in her previous books, weaves a story of suspense and mystery throughout her story and does such a great job unfolding the characters throughout the storyline. She doesn't show all her cards at the beginning but keeps the reader engaged and wanting more until all the pieces are put together and the puzzle is clear by the end.

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Driftwood Bay by Irene Hannon

In the sleepy town of Hope Harbor, another story is unfolding. Meet Jeannette, the owner of the towns lavender and tea shop. She has successfully built a hedge around her home. Physically and emotionally. She has vowed to keep everyone at a distance as being hurt hurts too much. Her new next door neighbor, Dr. Logan West, though is going through hurts of his own raising his niece of whom he knows nothing about. As these two neighbors' lives intersect, hearts begin to soften.

In this sweet story of healing past hurts, you will find some familiar faces from previous books in the Hope Harbor series. Mainly Charley, the taco making, artist town sage who makes an appearance in every book along with his two side kick seagulls Gladys and Floyd. Walk along the shores of Jeannette and Logan's lives as you discover how these two have more in common than meets the eye. The author does a great job setting the scene and developing the characters in a nonsensical way that keeps the reader interested throughout the book.

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Never Let Go by Elizabeth Goddard

Willow Anderson's life is flipped upside down when her grandfather is killed. Not only was he her business partner in his genealogist company, but he was her rock and the one she looked up to for everything. When she decides to continue investigating the case he was working on when he was killed, she quickly finds out that it's much more dangerous than she expected. When attempts are being made on her life, she realizes that someone doesn't want the truth exposed. With the help of her ex-boyfriend and former FBI agent, Austin McKade, uncovering the truth will lead them on unexpected paths, not only for the case, but their hearts as well.

Goddard spins a fast-paced, action packed story that keeps the reader flipping the pages to find out what happens next. This is the first book in the Uncommon Justice Series and it does not disappoint. with twist and turns around every corner and with every page, Goddard does a great job creating a story that keeps the reader interested and wanting more. If you enjoy suspense with romance thrown in throughout, you will enjoy this book.

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Sky Above Us by Sarah Sundin

In this story of tenderness and compassion, we find Violet Lindstrom and Lt. Adler Paxton learning what it means to lean and grow their faith. Violet works for the Red Cross and Paxton as a fighter pilot during the days leading up to the fated D-Day. As their paths intersect, so do their hearts. But amidst scandal and possible thievery, they learn to trust each other, but mostly to trust that God will work all things according to his plans.

This is book 2 in the series Sunrise at Normandy by Sundin. This is a great book for those who enjoy war stories and history during D-Day. Sundin weaves history in to this novel making it feel like you are right there hearing the fighting and walking along the roads and paths that are traveled. With a bit of mystery thrown in, the reader finds themselves moving along with the characters wondering how it will all work out. If you enjoy historical fiction, you will enjoy this 2nd book in the Sunrise at Normandy series.

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of We Hope for Better Things by Erin Bartels

What it's about: Three women. Three eras of history. Three lives that intertwine and connect over decades. Three underlying themes in each of their lives that so adequately define where America was and is on the subject of racism. Journalist Elizabeth Balsam finds herself on a journey that she thought was going to take her in one direction, but takes her on a completely different path. A path of finding family that she didn't know existed and a history of the Balsam name that she knew nothing about. Because of one meeting, a camera and some photographs, Elizabeth begins a search that leads her to realizations about racism reaching back to the Civil War that impacts her family.

What I thought: This book was one of the very few books that I would define as one of my favorite. Carefully written, but written in such a way that the reader can't help but mourn, cheer, cry and be angry at how America has been shaped regarding racism and the injustices that have been woven into the decades of society. This story covers three women, all in the same family, spreading from the Civil war, to the marches of Martin Luther King and the riots in Detroit to present day. The subjects of slavery to interracial marriage. To how past thought one color of skin was incomprehensible and an embarrassment on the family history to the present seeing how beautiful all people are. A powerful story to help open eyes and begin conversations about America's history and opening eyes to racism.

Would I recommend this: A resounding yes. This was one of the most powerful fiction books I have read in a very long time. Beautifully and heart wrenchingly amazing, this book will be one that has impacted me to the core. Bartels did an exceptional job and I look forward to reading the books she writes in the future. Well done!

Revell sent me this complimentary copy to review. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Code of Valor by Lynette Eason

What it's about: Brady St. John's vacation comes to an abrupt halt one day as he hears screams from the secluded lake by the house he is staying in. One choice sets in motion events in which lead he and the woman he rescues, Emily Chastain, on a life or death hunt for why Emily is being targeted and attempted to be killed.

What I thought: This is the 3rd book in the Blue Justice Series by Lynette Eason. She weaves a story of twists and turns that has you wondering who is the hunted and who is doing the hunting of the main characters in this story. Eason does a remarkable job keeping the reader in suspense throughout the entire book, right up until the end. With threads of romance and learning about confident self-image, this book will keep the reader engaged until the last page is turned. There are ties to the first two books, but the reader can read this book as a stand-alone. I would encourage you though, if you read this book, to read the first two in this series as you won't be disappointed.

Would I recommend it: yes! absolutely, without a doubt, read this book. Read the series! if you enjoy mystery suspense, then you will like this book.

Revell sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of In Too Deep by Lynn H. Balckburn

What it's about: Carrington County Sheriff's office dive team is at it once again. With a new case involving a submerged car, a dead woman who has left a rather gruesome note that leads Detective Adam Campbell on the hunt for a killer. Along with Dr. Sabrina Flemming, this duo, along with the sheriff's office team, are running against time to find out who the killer on the loose is, and could it even be someone in Adam's family?

What I thought: What a fantastic book! This is book two in the Dive Team Investigations and it does not disappoint! Blackburn has spun another tale that is hard to put down until it's finished! It may be easier to understand all the characters if the reader reads book one in the series, but it's not too hard to pick up on past story lines if the first book hasn't been read. Blackburn does an amazing job grabbing the reader right from the start and keeping them flipping the pages until the end. With twists and turns along the way and the reader changing their mind as to who the killer may be, Blackburn keeps you guessing up until the end in this suspense thriller that keeps you wanting more.

Would you like it? If you enjoy suspense thrillers, this is definitely the book for you! With a splash of romance and the page turning thrill, those who enjoy this type of genre will have a hard time putting this book down.

Revell sent me a complimentary copy to review. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Hidden Peril by Irene Hannon

Nutshell: Kristen Dane is the proud owner of a small fair trade store. Her partnership with organizations around the world brings light to how to support others in different countries. Little does she know though that she is being used by a group that is out to infiltrate the United States with evil through the use of one of her products...candles. After two deaths are tied to the purchase of the candles, the police and detective Luke Carter are brought in to get to the bottom of this mystery. Through detective and undercover work, Kristen and Dane are on the race against time before there is a next victim in this sinister plot.

What I thought: What a fast paced, adventurous story that takes you from one side of the world to the other. Hannon does a great job weaving a complex story into pages that you can't turn fast enough. This is the second book in the Code of Honor series and can be read as a stand alone book as well. I enjoyed the twists and turns the reader went on all the way through the book, right up to the end.

Would you enjoy it? If you like mystery-suspense books, you will enjoy this nugget. There is a bit of violence and splashes of romance throughout, but the main suspense is what will keep you going to the end.

Revell Reads sent this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Everything She Didn't Say by Jane Kirkpatrick

Nutshell: It's 1877 and Carrie Strahorn is about to begin the biggest adventure of her adult life. Getting married and starting a cross-country journey to settle in the rugged west. Sharing her struggles on written paper, Strahorn documents her journey across the country.

What I thought: This was a very poignant and thoughtful read, heart-wrenching at times as the main character shared her deepest thoughts and bared her soul. Her high lights and disappointments. Her joys and her trials. Her struggles in her marriage and her journey of growing of who she was and how she grew up as a woman during this time. The most amazing piece about this book is that it is based on a true story. Knowing a woman went through all Strahorn did is pretty extraordinary.

Would you read this? If you enjoy a memoir type book, you will enjoy this book. The ebb and flow of Strahorn's words and journey will open your eyes to a totally new way of life that a lot of people don't know a lot about.

Revell Reads sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of A Secret to Die for by Lisa Harris

Nutshell: Meet Grace Callahan, psychologist. One night changes the trajectory of her life as someone breaks in to her home and demands a key the intruder believes her client gave her. A key she knows nothing about. Grace is in the race of her life trying to put together pieces of a puzzle she wasn't even aware she needed to put together. But she has to put them together fast or else her life will be next. Grace insists the help of an old friend, Nate Quinn who is battling his own demons after a horrific incident. Grace and Nate are on the race to find answers before it's too late.

What I though: From the beginning of the first page, Lisa Harris weaves a story so suspenseful it's so very difficult to put this book down. With a heart pounding plot that keeps you up until the wee hours of the morning, it's a fantastic book that grabs your attention and keeps it until the very last pages. When you start this book, it takes just one page before the story launches right off the board and you better be ready to hold on! Lisa Harris knocks it out of the park once again and you won't be disappointed after you turn the last page.

Would you read this? If you enjoy thriller, mystery suspense, you will enjoy this book!

Revell Reads sent me this complimentary book to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Called to Protect by Lynette Eason

Nutshell: Chloe St. John and her sidekick K-9 dog, Hank, are inseparable. After a hard breakup, she has decided Hank is the only guy for her. When she finds herself working with her old crush, Blake MacCallum, her heart isn't sure what to think. Considering the circumstances surrounding their job, they find that they work together pretty well as a team. Tensions rise when the human trafficking case they are working on heats up and they find themselves tracking Blake's kidnapped daughter. The race is on and time is of the essence of finding Blake's daughter and the others who are in danger of never being found again.

What I thought: This is the 2nd book in the Blue Justice Series. What a great book this was! The second book picked up right where the first one left off. Eason did a spectacular job weaving the story into a suspenseful, fast paced story that you will not want to put this book down. She masterfully creates characters who would do anything to protect the country they love as well as those they love around them. You won't want to put this book down and may even stay up in to the wee hours of the morning to finish it.

Would you like it: If you enjoy suspense, action and page-turning thrills, this is the book for you. I would suggest reading the 1st book in the series (which is equally good) as it gives you more of an overview of the St. John family.

Revell Reads sent me this complimentary book to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Just Let Go by Courtney Walsh

Nutshell: Quinn Collins just bought her first business, a building she grew up in, but was never able to call it her own...until now. She's on a quest to be the best florist, win the biggest flower competition, while also showing her mother that she's got what it takes. The mother who abandoned her 20 years before and who is also the judge of the competition. She's got a new lease on life and she's going full speed ahead. Until a very angry, unhappy Olympic skier enters town, ends up in a fight and has to do community service....in her flower shop. With tempers high and sparks flying, Quinn finds herself on a new journey of patience and selflessness that she was not anticipating. But the biggest question is who is she trying to prove herself to? Her mother or herself?

What I thought: This was a quaint story that is the perfect read curled up next to the fire or soaking the rays on the beach. I thoroughly enjoy Courtney Walsh's books and this one was right up with her other ones (and that it's set in Michigan makes my heart all things happy). This book is down to earth with every day characters facing every day challenges. You find yourself walking with them, their thoughts and end up hoping everything works out while rooting for them as you read. Courtney does a great job weaving heartache and joy throughout the story line accompanied by humor and seriousness. A heart-warming story that makes you smile by the end and gives you a little lighter of a step as it makes your heart feel good.

Would I recommend it: If you enjoy warm-hearted, feel-good-to-your-toes reads that don't require a lot of figuring out and solving (like a mystery), then you will enjoy this book. This is a stand-alone novel with a story line that is sweet and feels more like home.

Tyndale House sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Blind Betrayal by Nancy Mehl

Nutshell: Marshal Casey Sloane has a new assignment. Escort a reporter from St. Louis to Washington D.C. to testify in a grand jury and a very high profile case. As Casey takes each job seriously, there does not seem to be any problems with this one and it should be an open and closed case within a couple days. Then all pandemonium breaks loose as Sloane is ready to head out with her witness. The Mashal's office is bombed and they think it is related to the witness Casey is transporting. With her partner and a D.C. Marshal, who she knew very well, they go on the run with their witness to get her to D.C. Through dangerous travels, twists and turns, will they be able to get their witness to her destination alive?

What I thought: This is book 3 in the Defenders of Justice series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but some characters from previous books are in this one as well. Knowing their back stories from other books could help, but overall, you would be able to read this book without reading the other two. Meh did a spectacular job with this fast paced, action packed story that keeps the reader flipping pages until they reach the end. So many levels and layers to the story to give the reader a bit more to chew on verses a typical mystery. Even up to the last pages, you are still surprised by what happens as you think it's over...but it's not.

Would I recommend it: Definitely! If you enjoy fast paced mystery and suspense, this book is for you. Highly addictive and hard to put down!

Bethany House Publishers sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Justice Betrayed by Patricia Bradley

Nutshell: Homicide Detective Rachel Sloan's mother had been killed when Rachel was a little girl. The death was said to have been from a burglary gone wrong, and the case was closed. A few days after her mother's death, a friend of her mother was murdered, an Elvis impersonator. Case unsolved. Years go by and another friend of her mother, Vic Vegas, yet another Elvis tributarian, shows up at Rachel's office saying he had evidence of her mother's death, her mom's friend's death and that both were murdered. The next day Vic is found killed. Someone is out to stop the truth from coming out. With no information other than a picture Vic gave to Rachel of himself, her mom, the murdered friend and one other person, Rachel is bound and determined to solve this case. Add in the craziness of being Elvis Week, it's time for Rachel to jump back in to the past with the help from Lieutenant Boone Callahan, and find out who is murdering Elvis impersonators and get to the bottom of solving these age old, personal cases before time runs out.

What I thought: This is the 2nd book in the Memphis Cold Case series, though it can be read as a stand alone book. Patricia did an excellent job keeping the story going and keeping the reader involved in the book right up until the end. A classic "who dunnit" suspense mystery with a bit of romance thrown in. I enjoyed the creativity of the Elvis focus as that added an extra layer of interest in the story. This book was well thought out, creative and well written. The characters in the first book were very minor in this book, so it can be read as its own novel.

Would I recommend it: Absolutely! If you enjoy a good mystery suspense, you will enjoy this book! Patricia is a seasoned author who does a phenomenal job creating and delivering story.

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Theory of Happily Ever After by Kristin Billerbeck

What it's about: Dr. Maggie Maguire is all about happiness. That's her job. Researching and publishing the science behind happiness. But happiness is far from Maggie's life as her fiancé broke off the wedding and she finds herself enjoying happiness with a pint of ice cream and Hallmark movies. That is until her friends intervene and practically push her on to a singles cruise. Maggie has to learn what true happiness is the hard way - not in things, but in who she is made to be. Thanks to a perfect stranger who raises her defenses, she finds out what true happiness is...not in science, but in the heart.

What I thought: This was a great feel-good story about the journey of Maggie Maguire and her heart. There was a lot of soul searching, a lot of making mistakes and learning from them. Kristin did a great job in telling Maggie's story. The humor sprinkled throughout and the internal conversations the character had with herself made this book realty. How many times have I had conversations with myself? All the time. That's what I liked about this book. It seemed like the main character kept going back and forth in her thoughts, but that's how people are. Throw in a lot of laughter and learning from mistakes and that's this book.

Would you like it? If you enjoy a good laugh, a light read and a feel-good story-line, this book is for you. For a rainy day or a sunny day on the beach, pick up this book as it'll make your heart feel good (and give you reassurance that you're not the only one who has conversations with yourself). And if you base a book by the cover, this one is eye catching and I'd pick it up based not the cover.

Reveal Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Where the Fire Falls by Karen Barnett

What it's about: Olivia Rutherford is keeping a big secret even to the point of changing her last name. Her life as a starving artist is starting to launch her to the next level. As her art starts to become more known, she lands a deal to paint for Scenic Magazine which takes her to the beautiful Yosemite National Park. As she slowly faces her secrets, her facade begins to break down, thanks to a backcountry guide, Clark Johnson who introduces her to the beauty of nature and the majesty of God. As Olivia's past collides with her present, she is faced with life changing decisions and learns how to trust God even in the most dangerous situations.

What I thought: This is Karen Barnett's second book in her Vintage National Parks set and is a read-alone book. I enjoyed the creativity of how she framed the time period and pulling historical landmarks, events and people in to her story. I have never been to Yosemite, but reading this book has  me putting it on my bucket list. The description of the wilderness, the falls and the grand-ness of it makes you want to jump in your car and drive there. Between the story of the characters and battling out their pasts set in the grandeur of nature made this a great book that you could picture in your mind.

Would you like it: If you enjoy outdoor themed romance stories, you will enjoy this one. I encourage you to read the first book in this set called The Road to Paradise as it is just as good. I hope you will enjoy the whimsicalness of the authors writing as much as I did.

Blogging for Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers

What it's about: Grace Moore. A single mom, struggling to make ends meet for her and her son, has ghosts in her closet very few know about. Roman Velasco has it all. Money, women, power, anything he wants at his fingertips, except peace. Grace lands a job as Roman's personal assistant and she quickly sees right through his facade. Roman can't figure out this enigma named Grace. Working side by side, Grace and Roman's pasts begin to come to light, but at the expense of what and who's heart? In this soul-searching story, Grace and Roman come face to face with what it means to be forgiven by God's all-encompassing grace as he is forming us in to his masterpiece.

What I thought: A story worth reading again! Francine does not disappoint in this tale of God pursuing his creation. This story is not picture perfect. It gets messy at times, you can feel the darkness surrounding Roman. You can see the battles waging in both of the characters' hearts. You can see God chasing. Francine is a master story-teller. Wrapping the reader in to the story right from the start. Throwing in romance along the way, but ultimately sharing God's pursuit of people and shaping us to be his masterpiece.

Would you like it: A resounding yes. This is not a fast paced, mystery-suspense type of story. More like real life with real people who have real problems. And yet this story is very hard to put down. If you enjoy Francine Rivers' books, you will definitely enjoy this one!

Tyndale sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Beneath the Surface by Lynn H. Blackburn

What it's about: Leigh Weston is back home trying to start over after some horrific events that put her life in danger. What she doesn't know is that new events are starting to take place that are putting her life in danger, even while living in the safest place she knows. Family friend, and best friend to her brother, homicide investigator Ryan Parker, finds himself on Leigh's doorstep after he discovers a body in the lake behind her house. As Leigh's life becomes even more in danger, it is a race to the last minute of discovering who is after her, why and are the missing bodies that are turning up any link to Leigh's past.

What I thought: This is the first book in the Dive Team Investigators Series. What a great book by Blackburn. This is the first book I read by her and it was a good suspense thriller. A lot of romance was thrown in there, but the overall story line and plot was a great. The mystery kept twisting throughout and she did a great job keeping the reader wondering who was after the main character and why.

Would you like it: If you are an avid reader of suspense thrillers, you will like this one. Fast paced and intriguing, it will keep you flipping the pages up to the end to find out who the murderer is.

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Long Black Veil by Jennifer Finney Boylan

What it's about: A group of mis-fit young adults find themselves in quite the situation when they enter an abandoned prison and the gates become chained shut. When one of their friends goes missing inside the prison no one has any idea what happened to her. Once free from the prison, all are questioned and are left speculating what happened to their friend. 30 years later, a gruesome discovery is revealed in the prison when someone comes across the remains of a skeleton and the past rushes up to meet the group of friends, who by then have all went on to live different lives. The past eventually brings them all together to face their own ghosts and to finally find out what happened to their long-ago friend.

What I thought: A very creative story that intertwines past with present. I liked how the author back tracked for each character to go more in depth in their life from the opening prison scene to 30 years later. With their being more emphasis on two to three characters instead of all seven, it made it that more intriguing. I could have done without the excessive language used throughout the book and some of the extra-curriculuar choices that were discussed. The main story though was interesting.

Would you like it? This all depends what type of book you are looking for. I usually review Christian fiction and I will tell you that this is not that genre. Many may be appalled and offended by reading this book. All depends if you have an open mind and get more to the depth of the book. You may want to read the back of the cover before reading the book so you are not surprised by it.

Blogging for Books sent me this complimentary copy to review. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of the Lacemaker by Laura Frantz

What it's about: Lady Elisabeth Lawson has it all for someone living in the Virginia Colony in 1775. Everything at her beck and call. Money. A rich lifestyle. No need for anything. Except love. Her betrothed is a match her father set up for her to bring even more money in to the family. Her heart accepts this as her lot in life. But when things turn for the worse and she finds herself on her own, an unexpected revolutionary, enters her life and her heart is not sure what to do. Follow Elisabeth as she journeys on her own road discovering who she truly is.

What I thought: A bit of a slower story, but told with rich vocabulary which tells of the time period this story was written in. Frantz describes the characters and the plot with elegance that you can feel yourself watching from the fringes at the ball or feel the wind from the river while walking through the garden. She weaves a tale that leaves you curious as to what is coming next. The characters are well developed and throughout the book you learn a bit more about the history and tales of the revolutionary time period.

Would you like it? This is a great book for any fictional historian!

Revell Book sent me this copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Missing Isaac by Valerie Fraser Luesse

What it's about: Even though Isaac is one of Pete McLean's father's hired hands, he is Pete's best friend. And in the 1960's, having a friend who is of a different race is frowned upon. And a friend is who Pete needs, especially after his father unexpectedly dies in an farming equipment accident. But then Isaac suddenly disappears which leaves Pete emotionally wandering and wondering what happened. But because Isaac is African American, to those in authority, he didn't really matter. Pete's grandfather is on a mission to find answers for Pete. And Pete is on a mission to find Isaac. And through his mission, Pete meets a new friend, Dovey, who changes his views on friendship. Struggle along with Pete as he grows up and faces different challenges in his upbringing years and see if he ends up finding answers as to what happened to Isaac.

What I thought: This was a very interesting book. Seeing how the culture viewed people of color, people of different status' and people of different economic means was written well. I liked the slow, easy pace of the story line and the turns it takes, kind of like a meandering river with subtle bends along the way. This was the first time I have read a book by Luesse and enjoyed it. She weaves a story well and tells a tale with ease.

Would you like it: This was a book more about the heart rather than a suspense mystery. A journey over time rather than over a few days (like most suspense mysteries).

Revell Books sent me a complimentary copy to review. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Empowered by Craig Parshall

What it's about: Ex-attorney, Trevor Black, is back at fighting the dark forces. This time in the city of New Orleans. Two government employees are dead, one in his hotel room, and both look like voodoo is possibly involved. What started out as a trip to talk at a convention turns to a murder investigation that has evil written all over it, Trevor finds himself dealing with the dark world like never before. In a fight against time, trying to locate his missing daughter and fighting against demonic forces, Trevor discovers a sinister, evil empire tied to human trafficking and young girls gone missing with webs strung all the way to top government officials. 

What I thought: Captivating and a bit eerie all at the same time. The voodoo/demonic slant gave me the shivers, but it added so much grit and depth to the story at the same time. This is considered a novel, but it is the 2nd book of Trevor Black. You could read this as a stand alone, but reading the first one helps in the backstory of the 2nd book. Parshall does an expert job weaving this story from the beginning to the end. Despite the dark side of the plot, the suspense is thick and the pace is fast. 

Would you read it: Think This Present Darkeness but in present day form. Add in technology and government and human trafficking and you have what this book is about. It is dark, and you may not want to read before bed, but it is also very hard to put down, so you may be up until the late hours trying to finish it. 

Tyndale House Publishers sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Oath of Honor by Lynette Eason

What it's about: Isabella (Izzy) St. James loves her job. And she has her long-time best friend, Kevin Marshall, as her partner and who is newer to the police force. During a steak out turned bad, her partner is killed, and she is left with unanswered questions which she quickly needs to figure out. Kevin's brother Ryan, a homicide detective joins Izzy in figuring out who killed his brother, the stakes are raised. Tips are indicating there may be dirty cops, and possibly in Izzy's own law-enforcement family. The clock is ticking as Izzy and Ryan race to get to the bottom of who killed Kevin and break open an even bigger case than they even imagined.

What I thought: This is the first book in the Blue Justice Series. And it is fantastic!! I loved the pace set right from the beginning as a suspense thriller filled with twists and turns that will keep you guessing right up until the end! Eason does a great job again with her storytelling and writing abilities that keep the reader engaged. I did like that the main characters had a history together and that this wasn't a "love at first sight" book. I felt like that added depth to the story. I also loved the deep family bond of both families that was present through the entire book. After reading the 2nd book's teaser at the end, I'm thinking this is going to be an exceptional series!

Would you read it: If you enjoy suspense mystery with a bit of romance thrown in, you will like this book! Gruesome in some parts, heart wrenching in others, which makes the complete story that much better!

Revell Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Dangerous Illusions by Irene Hannon

What it's about: Imagine running on fumes between a full time job and taking care of your ill mother. That's what Trish Bailey's life is like. Until the one fateful day her mother is found passed away. Doubts begin to enter Trish's mind as to how this happened. Was it her fault? Did she let something slip from her mind? Is she going crazy? Her financial advisor has planted these thoughts in her head to make it seem like that is the case. Enter Detective Colin Flynn. He feels like Trish is telling the truth, that she didn't harm her mother that she loved. Is there something sinister happening that needs to come to light? Who is really at fault and why is everything becoming so dangerous?

What I thought: What a great book by Irene Hannon. She spins this story with a masterful weave of plot twists and surprises that keeps you turning page after page. This type of suspense has her fingerprints all over it, and you know you are going to be reading a good book when you pick one of her's up. She takes a different approach as you know the mastermind behind everything from the beginning, but you're along for the ride with the main characters in watching them solve clues and uncover things that were meant to be kept secret.

Would you read this? If you enjoy suspense and romance thrown in there, this book is for you!! A great book to read on a windy, cold, winter day right up next to the fire.

Revell Books sent me this book to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.
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Review of Vanishing Point by Lisa Harris

What it's about: Meet Garrett Addison. A fresh criminal investigator who is beating his own path away from his father's expectations of becoming a shady lawyer. Garrett enjoys the tempo of this job and that he is doing what he loves. One of his first cases is of a girl who was murdered and buried in a shallow grave. All that was left behind was a Polaroid of her right before she was killed. He starts to work the case when another killing happens...then the next year, another killing. All linked together but leaving the detective clueless as to how to catch the murderer. With the complexity of the murders, FBI agent Jordan Lambert is called in to help with the case. The woman Garrett hoped to spend the rest of his life with when they were done with the police academy, but she chose to move on to become an FBI. As the years pass and the string of murders continues to grow from the so-called Angel Abductor, how will Garrett and Jordan close this case before yet another girl is murdered and will they ever come to terms with how they feel for each other?

What I thought: If you read any, or all, of the Nikki Boyd Files series by Lisa Harris, you are going to want to drop everything you are doing and read this book. This answers all your questions as to the disappearance of Nikki's sister, Sarah. I liked how the book started before Nikki or her sister were even in the picture and how the case morphed over the years up until the present time of after Nikki got married. I really liked the pace of this book, how detailed the author was with each case and how she carried the story from beginning to the end, spanning over a decade. I also like how it wasn't heavy on the romance side, but it flowed along with the story and the history of the two main characters. There was a bit time period to cover and I think Lisa did a great job capturing all that happened during that time.

Would you read it? You can read this as a stand-alone book, but to make it even more rich, I highly suggest reading the three Nikki Boyd Files books. This will give you a greater appreciation for this book and all that is happening. A little gruesome in places, but oh so good!

Revell Publishers sent me this complimentary book to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own. 

Review of Blind Spot by Dani Pettrey

What it's about: This is book three in the Chesapeake Valor series. This book highlights FBI agent Declan Grey and his hunt for a terrorist who has been running free on American soil. As the threat on America rises, so do the threats against Declan and his assigned partner Tanner Shaw. While they are chasing bullets and dodging cars, their trail leads across the country and back again as they seek not only the threat to America but the ties to a smuggling ring who is bringing refugees illegally. Will Declan and Tanner capture the person behind the threat in time or will it all be too late? And will their hearts survive the mounting tension that is building between them?

What I thought: This may be a very difficult book to read on it's own. There is so much back story from the previous books and characters that to understand this one, reading the first two may be the best route to go. I did enjoy the pace of this book as it was intense. The story line was complex in regards to following the story line between the ties of the terrorist and the smuggler. One thing I do enjoy about this author is how she weaves in other story lines about previous characters to foreshadowing her next book with a storyline of its own. 

Would you read it: If you enjoy suspense fiction with a dash of romance,  you will enjoy this book. Again, you'll want to read the first two books to completely understand where this one is picking up from. If you have a sensitive stomach, beware as this book can get a big graphic in places. 

Bethany House sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Lady Jayne Disappears by Joanna Davidson Politano

What it's about: Aurelie Harcourt's life is anything but normal. But she doesn't know anything different. Growing up in a debtor's prison along side her father, her life consists of bringing life and love to those around her. Her father has made a living of writing a continuous story under a pen name about the life of Lady Jayne, his love, Aurelie's mother. Aurelie's father unexpectedly dies she knows she needs to carry on his story, and find the true identity of her mother. Her life unexpectedly takes a turn where she ends up at her father's childhood home and as she tries to fit in with her unfamiliar family, she uses the only outlet she knows...continuing her father's legacy as pen writer Nathaniel Droll. Her eyes are opened to a whole different world and secrets come to light that may do more harm than good. What will become of the Harcourt family and legacy with these new found secrets? Will it destroy them or bring them closer together? And will the true identity of Nathaniel Droll be revealed?

What I thought: Slow in parts, but overall, a good read! The story line and plot kept the reader engaged throughout the whole story and the unexpected end made for a great plot twist! There were some parts I was a bit confused about...like where/how the mysterious people appeared. I enjoyed the creativity of story line though. Very intriguing and different than what I have read before. Not suspenseful, but a bit mysterious with a dash of romance intertwined throughout. I liked how it started in the "present" at the beginning and jumped to the past to bring the reader up to speed as to how the main character ended up where she did.

Would you read it?

If you enjoy something different, light, a bit mysterious (think like foggy, dark alley with shadowy figures in the 1800's mysterious), then you will enjoy this book. You can't go wrong with it. A perfect book for a rainy/snowy day!

Revell Books sent me a complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck by Bethany Turner

What it's about: Sarah Hollenbeck has it all. Prestige, money, a perfect marriage to a well-known husband, the perfect house, the perfect life. Except it isn't all perfect. It's anything but. Her marriage is love-less, money can't buy happiness and she's a shell of a person. She finds herself a divorcee from a cheating husband and has a lot of time on her hands. She decides she is going to write a book, that low and behold, launches her in to the lime light with it's steaminess throughout the pages. Then she meets Jesus. And the pastor of the church she begins to attend. And she loves both. How does she put away her past and move towards the future with the baggage she carries and the stories she has written? Will it even work?

What I thought: I loved this book. It was such a different romance than I have ever written. So much of it is written as the what is going through the main character's head that it gives a fantastic insight as to how much happens in one's thoughts! I could relate all to well with letting the imagination get away from you. I found myself smiling throughout this book with the humor and the realness of the characters. I really didn't want it to end! Such a great, honest read that has you feeling all sorts of good at the end. Oh...and I loved, loved the cover! So eye catching!!

Would you read it?
If you enjoy light-hearted romance...you will love this book. The romance is so different than the suspense thrillers in that it's brutally honest. Bethany Turner is on to something with this book of raw, honest thoughts and possibly what it's like to live inside someone's head.

Revell sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. All opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin

What it's about:
Ben Payne and Ashley Knox are complete strangers until one decision changes the course of their lives. Ben, a surgeon who is heading home and Ashley, a journalist who's getting married the next day. The decision to charter a plane amidst a snow storm and commercial cancellations puts them on a trajectory far from what they were expecting. When the pilot has a heart attack and crashes the plane where Ben and Ashely survive, they find themselves stranded in the snow covered mountains miles from any civilization. With Ashely severely injured, it is up to Ben's back country experience to get both of them out alive since no one knows they chartered the flight and no flight plan was given to the airport. Journey with Ben and Ashely as they find resilience, grit and determination to survive not only the harsh elements, but the inner battle of wanting to give up.

What I thought:
This is one of the best, well written books I have read in a long time. The story is captivating, heart wrenching, tense and humorous. It's also clean in language and adult content. This was a book I was staying up late into the night reading just to finish it. The author did an amazing job creating a story line that keeps the reader interested up to the very last page. You can feel the agony, pain and hurt of the characters through the pages, the humor despite the horrific surroundings and the deep love between Ben and his wife (which is a story line in and of itself throughout the book). There was nothing negative I experienced about this book.

Would you read it?
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good storyline and an author who is a master storyteller. You can't go wrong with this book. If you watched the movie before reading this book, just know that the two are very different. I have not seen the movie yet, but from watching the trailer, it does not follow true to the book.

Blogging for Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley

What it's about...

Kelsey Allen is wanting to break in to the security circles. To get her own firm off the ground, she is hired to break in to businesses and then show them their weak areas. Her second love is old artifacts. So when she is contracted to find out why artifacts at the city's museum are disappearing by being the museum's curator, she is ecstatic. Doing two things she loves every day. But when a murder happens while she's under cover, her security measures come in to question. And she also becomes a target that needs to be eliminated. Detective Brad Hollister finds himself drawn to Kelsey and to helping figure out who is behind the disappearing artifacts, the mysterious box of bones that shows up on Kelsey's desk and who is behind the murder...all the while trying to keep Kelsey from being killed. Will she survive long enough to put all the pieces together?

What I thought...

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Even with this as a second book in the Memphis Cold Case Series, it can be read as a stand alone novel. The suspense and story line meshed well and balanced each other well throughout the story. Bradley does it again with another great suspense novel that keeps you turning the pages up until the end. I enjoyed the various story lines, how they worked well together and all came together at the end. The romance sprinkled throughout was just the right touch as well. 

Would you read it....

If you enjoy thrilling suspense and action packed goodness, you will enjoy this book! Haven't read the first one? No problem! This is a stand alone novel and you can go back and read the first one if this one is already in your hands. If you pick up an Patricia Bradley book, it's going to be a good one.

Revell Reads sent this complimentary book to me to review. Opinions expressed are my own. 

Review of Deadly Proof by Rachel Dylan

What's it about?
An up and coming lawyer gets her big break, but at what cost? Prosecutor Kate Sullivan has put in her time and now the biggest case of her career is handed to her. Going up against a major pharmaceutical company has her head spinning and her stress level rising, but she is ready for the challenge. What she is not ready for is the sinister side this case brings. As she gets closer to the truth of what the company is doing, the more the heat gets turned up and the more danger she is in. Hiring a PI to look in to the death of a key player in the case, former Army Ranger, Landon James, steps in and finds himself not only investigating, but protecting Kate as the case gets closer to trial. Who is the mastermind behind the danger and what is going to be the big break in this case and at what cost will it be?

What I thought...
Rachel Dylan did a great job writing lawyer lingo in a way a non-lawyer would understand. I enjoyed the lawyer aspect of how the story was written. Reading about the process and the behind the scenes of a trial was eye-opening and interesting. The story line was a bit choppy in places, but overall, the twists throughout and the secondary characters added a layer of depth that helped the story along. I think a few different times, the story could have been enhanced a bit more, the suspense carried a bit longer as some situations ended abruptly, but again, overall, a great story.

Would you read it?
If you enjoy suspense and a bit of romance thrown in, you will enjoy this first book in the Atlanta Justice Series!

Bethany House Publisher sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Legacy by Michael Phillips

Nutshell: Loni Ford has inherited an island along with all of it's buildings and inhabitants off the coast of Scotland through ancestors she has never met. Her world is turned upside down with trying to figure out what to do with this very remote place. Over time though, she falls in love with the harsh-weathered island, and it's dwellers, especially one, David Tulloch. In this third and final book of the series, Loni learns more about her past, how it ties to her present and what it means for her future.

What I enjoyed: This book was very different than the previous two. I enjoyed the story-line of Loni's great-grandmother and the history of Loni's ancestry. I also enjoyed the side story of Loni's best friend and her journey of a new change in life. I did like the different angle this book took and how the heritage of Loni came to be. Very well written, very descriptive and overall a great read!

What I struggled with: All the names of the Tulloch ancestors! So many over decades of time that it was hard to keep straight who was from which era of their family. But, the family tree at the back of the book was a tremendous help in referencing who came from who and had which kids.

Would I recommend this book? I would....but the reader is going to want to read the first two books in the series to really understand what is going on. If you try and read this as a stand-alone novel, you will be putting it down in discouragement as it won't make any sense.

Bethany House Publishing sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of The Road to Paradise by Karen Barnett

Nutshell: Margie Lane loves nature. And she gets to spend the summer living under the shadow of Mt. Rainer in Mt. Rainer National Park. But as she quickly realizes, living in the National Park is a lot of work, but Margie falls in love with the place quickly. But trouble looms as the man from her past is set on taking over the park. Since he can't have Margie, he will go after what she loves. With her new friend, Chief Ranger Ford Brayden they will do everything they can to save the National Park, even if it means putting their lives in danger.

What I enjoyed: As the sub title describes this book as "A Vintage National Parks Novel", that is exactly what this is! Set in the 1920's, this book feels vintage'y (if that's even a word). I have not read Karen Barnett's books before, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one! I wasn't sure quite what to expect when I chose to read it, but it did not disappoint. With a little bit of romance, a splash of suspense and oodles of descriptive nature, this book was a delight to read. Vintage quaint comes to mind when thinking about this book. And the cover fits right in with how this book is portrayed.

Would I recommend this book? Absolutely! If you are looking for quick read that is quaint and yet has a bit of meat to it, then you will enjoy this book. A good book to read on the beach, a rainy day or by the fire on a chilly, snowy evening.

Blogging For Books sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Jane of Austin by Hillary Manton Lodge

Nutshell: Have you read Sense and Sensibility? Well, modernize that to present day and you have this great book! Jane and Celia Woodward find themselves in a bit of a pickle due to their father's choices at work. Their last name has been tainted, and while their father flies off to another country to continue his life, these sisters are now the guardian's of their youngest sister and need to find a course of action and fast! They decide to open a tea shop...how hard can that be? After years of success and making a promising name for themselves, the building is handed over to new management and they find themselves on a new adventure, heading for Texas where a cousin lives. Floundering in their personal relationships, Jane with her new boyfriend and Celia with her broken heart, these sisters learn what it really means to be a family and put family above all else when hearts are broken. Between cousins, new boyfriends, and a man who loves Jane, but she is off-limits, follow this story of the Woodward family to find out how their lives become better than a cup of tea.

Pro's: An exceptionally light and easy read that makes you feel all sorts of goodness inside by the time you are done. Lodge did a fantastic job spinning this classic in to modern day-ness. With a light-hearted plot that keeps you engaged all the way through, this book will be one you will want to keep on your shelf and re-read down the road. Also, the recipes at the end of each chapter!! I will be making some of these...I'm a sucker for recipes!

Con's: Not many! There wasn't a whole lot of characters to keep straightened out and the plot was light and simple. Jane's jump from one guy to another was a bit abrupt, but so goes classics and the time-era this story was originally set in. :)

Recommendation: A definite yes! I'll be pulling out the original to read too as this was such a fun story! If you enjoy Jane Austin, you will enjoy this! WaterBrookMultnomah sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh

Nutshell: Lane Kelley is on a new path she has formed for herself. Far away from her family in the sleepy town of Harbor Pointe, Michigan. She is now on a new journey in the bustling city of Chicago working for a fast-paced interior designer firm and she's about to land the promotion she's worked countless hours for. Then one phone call changes her life and she finds herself back in sleepy Harbor Pointe at the bedside of one of her brother's who is clinging to life. She is torn in two between being there for him when he wakes up from his coma and being back in Chicago - so she can flee from home. But then long-time family friend, Ryan Brooks re-inserts himself in her life and she is beyond confused as to what is most important in life. In the end, which path will her life head down?

Pro's: Loved that the book was set in Michigan, my home state! The story was a great reminder that no matter how quirky family is, they are still your family. And that forgiveness can go a long way in healing old wounds and re-awaken new friendships, even among family. I enjoyed the intertwining story lines of the lives of the two main characters. Great story line and a great book overall!

Con's: Very few! There was a lot of family to navigate through and remember who was who and who belonged to who, but the reader gets the hang of it as the book continues.

Recommendation: If you're looking for a book to read on a chilly, rainy day, or while sitting soaking up the rays at the beach and don't want anything heavy, you will enjoy this one! Tyndale Publishers sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Dark Deception by Nancy Mehl

Nutshell: Kate O'Brien and her sister were brutally attacked one evening and her sister ended up dying. The images of that night haunt Kate. After her court date where she testified against her killer, mayhem erupts in the courtroom and even more people are killed. Kate enters in to the witness protection program and begins a new life in a new town and tries to move forward. But then years later, she is ordered to come and re-testify, drawing back up the memories from long ago. The man who was thought to be her sister's killer has new evidence proving he wasn't the infamous serial killer who took her sister's and many others' lives. One man is there to walk through it all with her. Deputy Marshall Tony DeLuca. He helped her through the original trial and now is back to help her through this walk down a horrific memory lane. Is her killer guilty of all these crimes or is there someone else hiding out there waiting to take her down?

Pro's: A gripping story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you enjoy suspense mystery, this is book is for you! It's book 2 in the Defenders of Justice series, but it reads like it's own story, which is extremely helpful. Twists and turns keep the reader flipping page after page in wondering what is going to happen.

Con's: If you have a weak stomach, this is not the book to read, especially at night when the house is quiet and dark. :) It is graphic in nature, even from the start. But if that doesn't bother you, you'll enjoy this book!

Recommendation: A suspense/thriller mystery that has you sucked in from the beginning. Hard to put down. This is not a light, fluffy book, so if you rather read a light-hearted books, this one is not for you. If you enjoy the thrill of mystery that keeps you in suspense, this is for you!

Bethany House Publishers sent me this complimentary copy to review for them. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review of Catching the Wind by Melanie Dobson

Nutshell: WWII. Best friends Daniel and Brigitte run for their lives to escape the Gestapo who invaded their houses one sunny day. Finally making it to England the 13 and 10 year old become separated. Daniel had promised Brigitte he would always care for her and decades later, he still held on to that promise. Knowing that his life is coming to a close, and needing to know Brigitte is still alive and well, Daniel taps his lawyer Lucas Hough to convince up and coming American journalist Quenby Vaughn to find Brigitte.  Quenby's journey in finding Brigitte becomes personal and her heart travels on a path that intertwines with the past and her present.

Pro's: A fresh storyline that has you engrossed from the beginning. Two stories which become aligned throughout the plot. A fantastic read that will keep you up in to the late hours of the night wondering what is going to show up on the next page. Dobson weaves two lives, two different eras into one story line that captures the reader from beginning to end.

Con's: That the book had to end! There was nothing I would say needs changed in this book.

Recommendation: Definitely read this book. Twists and turns and an ending that you didn't see coming will have you enjoying this book all the way through.

Tyndale House Publishers sent me this complimentary copy for review. Opinions expressed are my own.