For the Record by Regina Jennings

Betsy Huckabee might be a small-town girl, but she has big-city dreams. Writing for her uncle's newspaper will never lead to independence, and the bigger newspapers don't seem interested in the Hart County news. Trying a new approach, Betsy pens a romanticized serial for the ladies' pages, and the new deputy provides the perfect inspiration for her submissions. She'd be horrified if he read her breathless descriptions of him, but these articles are for a newspaper far away. No one in Pine Gap will ever know.

Deputy Joel Puckett didn't want to leave Texas, but this job in tiny Pine Gap is his only shot at keeping his badge. With masked marauders riding every night, his skills and patience are tested, but even more challenging is the sassy journalist lady chasing him

This book started out slow.  I was having a lot of trouble getting into the story.  About half way through the story it started to pick up.  It got really interesting the last fourth of the book. I always judge a book by whether I will read it a second time.  I can't decide if I will or not.

I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

A Fatal Frost by Nancy Mehl

Mercy Brennan followed in her father's footsteps in a law enforcement career, but she has no interest in any other connection to him. A U.S. Marshal in St. Louis, Missouri, she's assigned to a joint task force with the St. Louis PD that puts her back into contact with her father and in the sights of St. Louis's most powerful gang.

When the gang has reason to believe Mercy has possession of some highly sensitive and incriminating information, her boss assigns Mark St. Laurent--a Deputy U.S. Marshal and Mercy's ex-boyfriend--to get her out of town until they can guarantee her safety.

Initially unaware of the danger she's in and uncomfortable working with Mark, Mercy's frustration escalates when she discovers the extent her boss and Mark have been keeping her in the dark. It isn't until a freak ice storm hits, stranding them at a remote location and out of contact with the district office, that the full severity of their situation becomes clear. As the storm worsens, the forces of nature combine with a deadly enemy closing in to put their lives at imminent risk. Can they survive long enough for help to arrive--if help is even coming at all?

This takes place in a few weeks time span.  But there is lots of action packed into a very short time.  The last time Mercy sees her father alive it's almost like he knew it would be the last time he sees her.  This sets the stage for Mercy running for her life.  Along with Mark her ex-boyfriend and ex-partner and Tally her best friend from grade school.  It seems everywhere they turn the bad guys know where to find them.  They begin to wonder if someone on the inside isn't betraying them.

I highly recommend this book to everyone.  Can't wait for the next book in the series.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in anyway.

A Royal Christmas Wedding by Rachel Hauck

Avery Truitt aches for true love—the kind she once shared with Prince Colin. Can she dare to hope for happily ever after, or is a fairy-tale ending beyond reach?
College volleyball star Avery Truitt has not seen her former flame, Prince Colin of Brighton Kingdom, since he suddenly pushed her away five years ago. But now, the sadness of losing her father and the joy of her sister Susanna’s pregnancy have brought Avery back to Brighton just in time for Cathedral City’s enchanting Christmas season.

Avery knows she can’t avoid seeing Colin—now the Kingdom’s most eligible bachelor—whether or not her heart is ready to relive the pain. But seeing him again might bring her the closure she needs after all this time.

When Colin finds himself at the center of a centuries-old Brighton tradition, he must decide whether to follow the path laid out before him or follow his heart to the only woman for whom he would ring the Pembroke Chapel Bell.

Can Colin convince Avery to meet him at the chapel on Christmas morning—as tradition dictates—or will Avery run back to her St. Simons home and pursue a coaching career as planned?
In the fourth installment of the Royal Wedding Series, New York Times bestselling novelist, Rachel Hauck, weaves a charming story of holiday romance as two broken hearts seek the love they once knew.

I liked how Avery and Colin kept relying on God to help them make their life altering decisions.  They had to be talked into it sometimes.  But in the end that's just what they did.  

I thoroughly loved this book .  I have read all of the books in the Royal Wedding Series. I don't have a favorite I loved them all.  After reading this book,  I would like to go back and read all the others.  I highly recommend the entire series.  They are stand alone books but they are all good.

I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

What Does God Really Promise

God makes hundreds of promises to his children. Promises of protection, forgiveness, hope, eternal life . . .
Cheerful artwork with a modern whimsical style wraps around honest, easy-to-understand answers to your toughest questions about church, eternal life and the future, and what God really promises to his people. What Does God Really Promise? will inspire and offer comfort as you grow closer to God and gain a better understanding of who he is, why church is important, and what the future holds for those who believe. Also serves as a heartfelt gift of love and promise to those who are considering faith or are new believers.

This book asks and answers 101 questions about God.  The answers are concise and uses scripture to back it up.  It's pretty simple and straight forward.  So very easy to understand.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Gratitude A Prayer and Praise Coloring Journal

Gratitude: A Prayer and Praise Coloring Journal invites you to bring creative journaling and the calming act of coloring into your quiet time with God. This beautifully designed interactive prayer book from Tyndale’s Living Expressions collection helps guide your thoughts as you pray about concerns such as health, overcoming stress, personal relationships, and more. Gratitude gives you a way to celebrate and give thanks to God for the many blessings he provides. Filled with over 100 designs to color, plenty of space for journaling and sketching, and 40 needs-based prayers, Gratitude helps you express your devotion to God with your whole heart!

This book has short Bible verses and devotionals.  Then a space for you to write your thoughts.  And I'll admit I enjoyed coloring in the journal as well.  I would recommend this to anyone who needs to relax with a devotion and enjoys coloring

I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way

Love's Faithful Promise by Susan Anne Mason

When her mother suffers a stroke, medical student Deirdre O'Leary makes the difficult choice to put her career on hold to care for her. Dr. Matthew Clayborne is renowned for his amazing results with patients, but when Deirdre approaches him about helping her mother, she finds him challenging and surly. Deirdre has had enough of complicated men in her life. After her fiancé left her, she vowed never to give a man that kind of power again.

Widower Dr. Matthew Clayborne is devoted to two things: his work with wounded soldiers and his four-year-old daughter, Phoebe. He won't abandon either of these priorities to care for one older woman. However, when Phoebe suffers a health scare, they're offered respite at the Irish Meadows farm, where his daughter's weakened lungs can recover--but only if he cares for Mrs. O'Leary.

Matthew intends to hate Irish Meadows, yet he immediately feels at home, and soon both Mrs. O'Leary and Phoebe are showing improvement. But since he has no intention of leaving his life up north forever, and Deirdre has sworn off marriage in favor of her career, how will they deal with the undeniable attraction between them?

This is the third book in the Courage to Dream series.  I have only read this book and found it to be a stand alone book.  That being said I would love to read the first two books to read the stories of Deirdre's siblings.

Deirdre had to leave medical school to tend her mother since her mother's stroke. This was a very difficult decision for her as women in medical school was unheard of in that day and age.  If she doesn't return soon, she will forfeit her place at the school.  Matthew doesn't want to like anything about Irish Meadows and especially Deirdre.  He vowed never to get married again.  Matthew's daughter blossoms at Irish Meadows.  He can't deny Phoebe's health has greatly improved or his growing attraction to Deirdre. 

I would recommend this book to all ages.  I was given this book by the publisher for a honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Twilight at Blueberry Barrens by Colleen Coble

Kate Mason has devoted herself to caring for her family’s blueberry barrens. But after her fields stop producing fruit, she’s forced to come up with alternative ways to make a living.

Renting out the small cottage on her property seems an obvious choice, but it won’t be enough. When entrepreneur Drake Newham shows up looking not only for a place to rent but also for a nanny for his two nieces, it’s almost too good to be true. And maybe it is—because Drake brings with him dangerous questions about who might be out to kill his family.

The more time Kate spends with Drake and the girls, the more difficult it becomes to hide her attraction to him. But a family crisis isn’t exactly the ideal time to pursue a romance.

Meanwhile, Kate learns that her uncle—in prison for murder—has escaped. Add to that a local stalker who won’t leave her alone, and Kate is looking over her shoulder at every turn. With threats swirling from multiple directions, she wonders if her blueberry fields will ever flourish again . . . or if this twilight is her last.

Another hit for Colleen Coble. This is the third book in this series.  Each book can be read independently.  But each book is excellent so I would recommend reading them all. Kate has not had an easy life growing up and has a lot to overcome.  The first book in the series tells more of her early life. This isn't a high suspense story but the mystery runs clear to the end of the book.  I would have liked a little more information about Kate's illness.   Not much is said except she was sick and tries to eat healthy.  Overall a very good book.

I was given his book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in anyway.

Just a Kiss by Denise Hunter

Riley Callahan’s plans to reveal his secret feelings for his best friend are derailed when his life is drastically altered in Afghanistan.

Watching the love of his life fall for his brother was enough to send Riley straight to boot camp. But over a year later, he’s officially a marine, and Beau and Paige are no longer an item. When Riley’s tour in Afghanistan is up, he intends to confess his feelings to Paige and win his best friend’s heart once and for all.

But all that changes when an IED takes the life of a comrade and leaves Riley an amputee. Now he’s heading home, injured and troubled. His plans to win Paige are a distant dream. She deserves so much more than the man that’s left. All he can do now is put some healthy distance between them. But upon his return he discovers his family has arranged for him to stay with Paige
.
Paige is a nurturer at heart and happy to take care of her best buddy. By all appearances Riley is adjusting miraculously well to his disability. But as the days pass, Paige begins to see that the smiles and laughter are just a mask for the pain he’s hiding. To make matters worse, her job is in serious jeopardy. The animal shelter that she’s poured her heart into has lost its funding, and she has three months to come up with the money needed to save it.

As the weeks wear on, Paige’s feelings for Riley begin to shift into uncharted territory. Why is she suddenly noticing his arm muscles and the way his lips curl at the corners? Will she be able to deny her feelings for another Callahan brother? And will Riley let his heart heal so he can let Paige in?

This is third book in the "A Summer Harbor Series".  It's not necessary to read the first two books in the series but it would be helpful.  Of all three books this one was my least favorite.  It was good but just not what I was expecting.  I didn't understand how come Riley went to live with Paige when he came home. To me it would have been improper for them to be in the same house together.   I realize that was part of the story.  But it could have been achieved another way.  It was a good story but seemed to drag in spots.  This is a good story, just not great.  It did make a nice ending to the series.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Catching Heat by Janice Cantore

Twenty-seven years after the deaths of Detective Abby Hart’s parents, she’s desperate to find the proof that will put the mastermind―the governor’s wife―behind bars. When she joins a newly formed task force and teams up with PI Luke Murphy, Abby is sent to San Luis Obispo to work the cold case of a murdered college student. Realizing their investigation will bring them near the town where Alyssa Rollins grew up, Abby decides to do a little digging of her own into the Triple Seven fire.

Luke is eager to help Abby close the books on a case they both have personal stakes in. But as she uncovers long-held secrets, Abby stumbles into an explosive situation, and Luke fears that her obsession may prove deadly.

Abby became a police officer because of the murder of her parents when she was a child.  That event shaped her adult life.  She meets Luke in the first book in this series.  Luke's uncle was murdered in the same fire that killed Abby's parents.  So together they search for answers.   Abby has almost become obsessed with trying to find answers.  Luke is the voice of reason.  Along with Woody, Abby's former police mentor, they keep her grounded.

This is the third book in Cold Case Justice series.  It would be beneficial to read the first two books in this series.  They first two books have an ending as they solve a crime in each book.  This book solves a crime as well as wraps up the murders of Abby's parents and Luke's uncle. 

I would recommend this book as well as the first two books in the series.

I was given this book for an honest review by the publisher.  I was not compensated in any way.


https://www.amazon.com/Janice-Cantore/e/B005O35IBE/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

The Domino Effect by Davis Bunn

Esther Larsen, a leading risk analyst at one of the country's largest banking institutions, is becoming more and more convinced that she has uncovered a ticking bomb with the potential to overshadow 2008's market crash. And as her own employer pursues "investment" strategies with ever-increasing levels of risk, she becomes convinced she must do something. Yet what can one person really do?

The markets are edging closer to a tipping point--like the teetering first domino in a standing row that circles the globe. And when Esther does sound the alarm, she wonders if anyone will take her seriously. But as public support grows for her ideas, so does the desperation of those whose conspiracy of greed she seeks to expose. With global markets on the brink, and her own life in danger, Esther is locked in a race with the clock to avert a worldwide financial meltdown.

Unfortunately I didn't care for this book.  The premise of the book was good.  It got really bogged down with all the very detailed technical aspects of the stock market.  Even after reading some of the technical stuff I didn't understand.  I admit to skimming a lot of the technical stuff after awhile.  I did enjoy the characters of the book.  Esther was a very likable character.  Actually I liked all the characters.  The book could have been half the size without all the detailed market information.

I can't say I would recommend this book unless you want a lesson on the stock market and how it works.  I don't like giving bad reviews.  But I just couldn't get into this book.  I have never read a book by this author before and probably won't ever again.

I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way. 

The Wedding Shop by Rachel Hauck

It's the early 1930s, but Cora Scott is walking in stride as a career woman, after having inherited her great aunt's wedding shop in Heart’s Bend, Tennessee, where brides come from as far away as Birmingham to experience her famed bridal treatment. Meanwhile, Cora is counting down the days until her own true love returns from the river to make her his bride. But days turn into months and months to years. All the while, Birch Good continues to woo Cora and try to show her that while he is solid and dependable, he can sweep her off her feet.

More than eighty years later, former, Air Force Captain Haley Morgan has returned home to Heart's Bend after finishing her commitment to military service. After the devastating death of her best friend, Tammy, and discovering the truth about the man she loved, Haley is searching for her place in life.

When Haley decides to reopen the romantic but abandoned wedding shop where she and Tammy played and dreamed as children, she begins a journey of courage, mystery, and love.
As Cora’s and Haley's stories intertwine through time in the shadow of the beloved wedding shop, they both discover the power of their own dreams and the magic of everyday love.

I enjoyed reading this book.  I thought it started out a little slow.  But as it progressed it got better.  There were four main characters that we read about.  Cora and Birch.  Their story took place in the early 1900's.  Haley and Cole's story takes place present day.  I couldn't decide if Cora was truly blinded by love or just plain naive.

Haley was not only wanting to reopen the Wedding Shop.  She was trying to discover her faith again. 
Cole had been engaged to Haley's best friend Tammy.  She feels it would be disloyal to Tammy to have feelings for Cole.  Even though Tammy has died.

There is one very big surprise in the book I didn't see coming at all.  It really tied the story together though. 

I would recommend this book to everyone.  The next book in the series is The Wedding Dress.  The dress was introduced in this book.  I am anxious to see where the dress has been and is going.

I was given this book for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

The Artisans'sWife by Judith Miller

As Ainslee McKay reluctantly leaves all she's known, the beauty of forgiveness and new beginnings comes to light in a West Virginian town with hidden depths.
Ainslee McKay's world is upended when her twin sister secretly elopes and leaves Ainslee alone to move to Weston, West Virginia, to fulfill their obligation at the McKay family's new tile works. While her brother, Ewan, agrees to travel with her and help her learn the ropes, she still intends to sell this business she no longer wants if a buyer can be found.

When the talented Levi Judson arrives to show Ainslee his designs for new tiles, she's impressed by his skill and passion for the business but feels she must keep her true plans for the business a secret from him. And though Levi hopes for a long, successful career at McKay Tile Works, he's hiding his true reason for coming to Weston. Can the growing feelings between them survive if the truth comes to light--or is a future together as uncertain as the future of the tile works itself?

The continuation of the McKay family was good to read.  Ainslee does not want to go to Weston, WV and leave everything and everyone that she loves.  She goes on the condition that a new buyer will be found and she can come home as soon as possible.  Little does she know that she will develop a love for Weston and a certain man who arrives in town looking for a job. Levi comes looking for a job with grand ideas for new tiles.  His devotion to his brother is commendable. 

I enjoyed reading this story.  I would recommend this book to anyone.  This is the third book in the series.  But it wasn't necessary to read the first two to read and understand this one.

I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

The Things We Knew by Catherine West

After her mother’s death twelve years ago, Lynette Carlisle watched her close-knit family unravel. One by one, her four older siblings left their Nantucket home and never returned. All seem to blame their father for their mother’s death, but nobody will talk about that tragic day. And Lynette’s memory only speaks through nightmares.


Then Nicholas Cooper returns to Nantucket, bringing the past with him. Once Lynette’s adolescent crush, Nick knows more about her mother’s death than he lets on. The truth could tear apart his own family—and destroy his fragile friendship with Lynette, the woman he no longer thinks of as a kid sister.

As their father’s failing health and financial concerns bring the Carlisle siblings home, secrets surface that will either restore their shattered relationships or separate the siblings forever. But pulling up anchor on the past propels them into the perfect storm, powerful enough to make them question their faith, their willingness to forgive, and the very truth of all the things they thought they knew.

I am having a little bit of trouble deciding how to rate this book.  A big indicator for me is whether or not I would go back and re-read the book.   The answer is no I will not.  It's not a bad book but it didn't grip me like other reviewers have stated.  The Carlisle family is very dysfunctional.  Lynette has the sole responsibility for her dad and the upkeep of their home.  No other member of the family seems to care one way or the other.   One brother is a druggie, one is unemployed, the other is a missionary.  Lynette's sister is an attorney with anger issues.  I can't say I really cared for any of the siblings.  Lynette needed to get a backbone and stand up to her siblings.  I did like Nick.  It seemed he was the only ally that Lynette had. It was interesting to see how the story unfolded.  The siblings did care for each other but it seemed circumstances drove them apart.

The religious aspect was lacking.  Nick and Lynette were the only ones remotely living a Christian life.  There was no language or sex scenes in the book.

Would I recommend this book?  It would not be on the top of my recommendation list.  Not a bad book, just not my style I guess. 

I was given this book for an honest review by the publisher.  I was not compensated in any way. 

Kiss the Bride

Picture Perfect Love: A June Wedding Story by Melissa McClone
   Jenna Harrison is a wedding photographer who was left at the altar the night of her wedding rehearsal.  Her fiance, Ashton Vance, accused her of  ruining his political ambitions by Photoshopping a picture and posting it on Facebook.  Although she kept denying it, he didn't believe her.  He also left her with all the bills for the wedding which about bankrupted her.  A couple of years later he come to her door apologizing and wanting her to photograph his sisters wedding.  This story is about their journey to forgiveness and trust.  I thought the ending was a little rushed.  I also didn't think Ashton had learned his lesson about trust.

I Hope You Dance: A July Wedding Story by Robin Lee Hatcher 
  Grant Nichols is a genius in the kitchen and a klutz on the dance floor. But his friend’s wedding is shaping up to be a shindig the likes of which Kings Meadow has never seen—including dancing. Lots of dancing.
Former rodeo queen Skye Foster is offering dance lessons for the wedding party. Grant and Skye are no match on paper. But when they step onto the dance floor, they create a melody all their own. The have one major difference of opinion.  She wants lots of kids and he doesn't want any kids. Of course they over come their differences and all ends well.

Love on a Deadline: An August Wedding Story by Kathryn Springer
  All MacKenzie "Mac" Davis wants to do is write for a big town newspaper.  She returned to Red Leaf, Wisconsin to take care of her father after his heart attack.  She thought it would be for a short time but she has been there a lot longer than she anticipated.  She took a job at the local newspaper and all they seem to want her to do is the fluff things.  The editor wants her to photograph and write a story about the Hollis Channing wedding.  That's the last thing she wants to do.  Hollis was not very nice to her in high school.  Mac also had a big crush on Ethan Channing, Hollis' brother.  Mac and Ethan do indeed spend a lot of time together in preparation for the wedding. 

I enjoyed reading all three novellas.  Some were better that others though.  This was a quick easy read that I would recommend.

I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.




  

No Other Will Do by Karen Witemeyer

Men are optional. That was the credo Emma Chandler's suffragette aunts taught her and why she established Harper's Station, a women's colony that offers a fresh start to females in need. But when a dangerous and shadowy assailant tries repeatedly to drive the women out, Emma is forced to admit they might need a man after all. One who can fight. And there is only one man she trusts enough to ask.

Malachi Shaw has finally earned the respect he's always craved by becoming an explosives expert for the railroad. Yet when Emma's telegram arrives, he rushes back to Texas to repay the girl who once saved his life. Only she's not a girl any longer. She's a woman with a mind of her own and a smile that makes a man imagine a future he doesn't deserve.

As the danger intensifies, Emma, Mal, and the ladies of Harper's Station must choose between safety or risking everything to fight for their future.

Another hit for Karen Witemeyer.  I enjoyed reading about Emma and Malachi as they struggled to find out who is threatening Harper's Station and the women who live there.  Emma is a strong independent woman ahead of her time.  Women of that day were thought to be only able to marry and have children.  Malachi grew up in the streets and literally had to fight for his life sometimes.  Emma saved his life after one such incident.

I highly recommend this book and am anxiously waiting for the next installment of "Ladies of Harper's Station".

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.   I was not compensated in anyway.

All Summer Long by Melody Carlson

Tia D'Amico is thrilled to move to San Francisco to help her aunt transform an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant. What's not to love? Sunset dinner cruises, upscale wedding receptions--the possibilities are endless and far more appetizing than staying in a monotonous job in her Podunk hometown. Besides, some of her best memories are tied to San Francisco--especially the memory of Leo Parker, her crush from a long-ago sailing camp.

When the self same Leo Parker turns out to be the yacht's captain, Tia is floating on air. But will it all come crashing down around her when she discovers his heart belongs to someone else?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.  Tia is a chef that has been working in the family's Italian restaurant since she finished chef schooling.  She's never really had a social life and has never been what you would call a girly girl.  She is super excited about the chance to fix up the yacht into a floating restaurant.  When she arrives her uncle is in the hospital with a heart attack and she is met at the airport by the Captain of the yacht.  None other that Leo Parker.  The boy she had a crush on when she was 16 years old.  The only problem is that he just got engaged. 

This book is the journey that Tia and Leo take to get the yacht up and running.  Plus their personal journey to get together.  It was a simple story but and enjoyable one.  The ending was wrapped up rather quickly once Leo and Tia got together. I would recommend this book to anyone.  It's a nice summer beach read.

I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.


 

Sea Rose Lane by Irene Hannon

After a devastating layoff, attorney Eric Nash heads back to the town where he grew up--only to discover that his childhood home is being transformed into a bed & breakfast. Instead of plotting his next career move in peace, he's constantly distracted by noise, chaos--and BJ Stevens, the attractive but prickly blonde architect and construction chief who's invaded the house with her motley crew.

As for BJ, her client's son might be handsome, but after a disastrous romance, dating isn't high on her agenda. Yet when they join forces to create a program for Hope Harbor seniors, might they also find healing, hope, and a new beginning themselves?

Eric was on the fast track to being partner in the law firm he worked in.  Due to lay offs he is back home.  All he can think about is finding the next law firm and getting back on the fast track to partner again.  Little does he know God has something else planned for him.  He meets BJ who is renovating his childhood home into a B&B.  She wants nothing to do with him as she sees him as the same type of person who stuck a knife in her back in her previous career. 

This is a nice easy read.  Yes, you do know that the guys gets the girl in the end.  But don't they usually.  I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a clean, sweet romance.

I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Murder Comes by Mail by A. H. Gabhart

Deputy Sheriff Michael Keane doesn't particularly enjoy being touted as the hero of Hidden Springs after pulling a suicidal man back from the edge of the Eagle River bridge in front of dozens of witnesses--a few of whom caught the breathtaking moments with their cameras. But the media hype doesn't last long as a new story pushes its way into the public consciousness of Hidden Springs' concerned citizens.

Photos of a dead girl arrive in the mail, and Michael becomes convinced she was murdered by the man he saved. With a killer one step ahead, things in Hidden Springs begin to unravel. Now Michael must protect the people he loves--because the killer could be targeting one of them next.

This is the second book in the Hidden Springs Mystery Series.  It is not necessary to read the first book to read and enjoy this one.  Although I recommend reading it as it is just as good as this book.  The main character is Deputy Sheriff Michael Keane.  At one time he was a big city police officer.  But now he is back home where life is much slower and very little crime happens.  Until now.  It seems someone is out to frame his for the murders that are taking place in town.  He is also in fear for those close to him as those being killed have a connection to him in some way.

If you are looking for a good mystery, this book is for you. It has several surprises along the way.  I recommend this book to everyone.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Every Bride Has Her Day by Janice Thompson

Katie's determined to make it down the aisle this time--but it may be easier said than done

Katie Fisher is ecstatic. Pro basketball star Brady James has proposed, and she can't wait to start planning their life together. But it's hard to focus on her own happily ever after when her calendar is filling up with celebrations for friends and family. Beyond that, it seems everyone around her has an opinion--and a strong one at that--on what Katie's special day should look like. Will she ever manage to settle all of the details for her storybook wedding? Or will her overzealous friends and relations make a mess of everything?

This is the third book in the "Bride With Style" series.   I have read all the books in this series and have enjoyed them.  I would say to fully understand this book and not get lost with who the characters are, you would need to read the other two books. 

Katie is finally going to get married to Brady.  The problem is everyone keeps giving her suggestions on what kind of wedding she should have.  Nobody is asking her what she wants.  It's a hilarious ride.  Sometimes a little over the top.  But fun nonetheless.  In the end Katie and Brady get their way and she has the wedding of her dreams.  Not what she imagined it would be when she was dreaming about when she was in high school.  All the loose ends seem to get tied up in the end.  Not that the other books left you hanging.  Just that all the characters seem to find their happy ever after by the third book. 

If you are looking for an easy fun read, I recommend this book.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest opinion.

Anchor in the Storm by Sarah Sundin

Nothing slows Lillian Avery down--not her personal challenges and certainly not America's entry into World War II. She finally has a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. The demands of her new job energize her. But society boy Ensign Archer Vandenberg's attentions only annoy--even if he is her brother's best friend.

During the darkest days of the war, Arch's destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves--and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions Lillian has been filling?

As the danger rises on both land and sea, the two must work together to answer that question. But can Arch ever earn Lillian's trust and affection?

This is the second book in this series.  It is not necessary to read the first book to enjoy this one.  Which I did.  The characters seemed will thought out.  We were shown the flaws as well as their strong points.  A lot of heroines and hero's are showed to be almost super hero types.  These were just ordinary people. Lillian has had to overcome her handicap of only having one leg.  In the 1940's this was looked down upon and she was not accepted.  Arch had what today we would call PTDS.  Back then you were just looked at as being weak.  Therefore, men just covered it up as best they could.  This is how the drug ring was introduced into the story.  Overall it was a very good story and I would recommend this book to everyone.  I look forward to reading the next story in this series.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Silence in the Dark by Patricia Bradley

When Bailey Adams left Logan Point two years ago she thought she was getting away from her problems. Running into her ex-fiancé Danny Maxwell was not part of the plan--neither was being chased through the city by the local drug cartel, the Calatrava. Now despite her best efforts, Danny is her only chance of escaping the people chasing her and getting back to Logan Point safely. Can Bailey find the strength to face what's coming? And in the midst of the chaos, can she keep herself from falling in love with her rescuer all over again?

With lean, fast-paced prose that will keep you turning the pages, Patricia Bradley pens a superb story of suspense and second chances.

I really enjoyed reading this book.  There was suspense and mystery.  Just the type of book I enjoy.  Bailey fears commitment.  She also struggles with her commitment to God.  She feels like a fraud being a missionary.  She does commit to bringing a little girl back from Mexico to meet her grandparents for the first time.  This is where the plot really starts getting interesting.  Bailey will do everything in her power to protect Maria.  Danny and Bailey run into each other in Mexico.  Danny still loves Bailey and will do anything to help her escape the kidnappers.

I liked that characters from the other books were brought into this one.  The only negative thing I can say about the book is that I would have like a short synopsis of the gun smuggling that took place in the previous books.  I have read all of them but I couldn't remember the whys and wherefores.  Other than that it was a great book.  You don't need to read the other Logan Point books to read this book.  I would recommend this book.

I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Traces of Guilt by Dee Henderson

Evie Blackwell loves her life as an Illinois State Police detective . . . mostly. She's very skilled at investigations and has steadily moved up through the ranks. She would like to find Mr. Right, but she has a hard time imagining how marriage could work, considering the demands of her job.

Gabriel Thane grew up in Carin County and is now its sheriff, a job he loves. Gabe is committed to upholding the law and cares deeply for the residents he's sworn to protect. He too would like to find a lifetime companion, a marriage like his parents have. . . .

When Evie arrives in Carin, Illinois, it's to help launch a new task force focused on unsolved crimes across the state. She will work with the sheriff's department on a couple of its most troubling missing-persons cases. As she studies old evidence to pull out a few tenuous new leads, she unearths surprising connections. One way or another, she knows Gabriel Thane and his family will be key to the answers she seeks.

 Evie is a super dedicated detective who enjoys solving mysteries rather than the day to day work of being a State Police Detective.  She is almost too intense.  We are reintroduced to Ann and Paul Falcon from previous books.  Ann is a likable person but she tends to be too perfect.  I liked Gabe the best.  He was the county sheriff who took his job very seriously.  He wanted these cold cases solved and was very willing to  help Evie solve them.  He was also interested in Evie in a personal way.  She was in him too.  She is not willing to commit to anyone and settle down.  The book left the relationship open at the end.  It appeared that maybe there would be book 2 of the Evie Blackwell Cold Cases. 

I mostly enjoyed this book.  The main reason is that there was too much description going on about possible scenarios for the cold cases.  It seemed to really drag at times and I found myself skimming those parts.  I would have liked to seen more action and less talk.  I prefer the old style Dee Henderson books that were action packed.  But these are still good.

I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in anyway.

The Magnolia Duchess by Beth White

As the War of 1812 rages across the newly formed United States, another war rages in Fiona Lanier's heart--one that threatens to tear her family apart.

Fiona can scarcely take in the news of her brother's capture and imprisonment by the British Navy. It is almost as unbelievable as the half-drowned British sailor who is washed ashore on the beach of Navy Cove.

Charlie Kincaid claims to have no memory of his life before being discovered by Fiona, but in a world that seems saturated with treachery, she cannot be sure he is telling the truth.
As Charlie's memory returns in agonizing jags and crashes, he and Fiona discover that falling in love may be as inevitable as the tide. But when political allegiances collide, they'll each have to decide where their true loyalty lies.

If you are a history buff, this book is for you.  I didn't really know a lot about the War of 1812.  But this book described a small portion of it.  Fiona is a very independent young woman.  Which is very unusual for this time in history.  Women were mostly keepers of the household and didn't venture beyond that scope .I enjoyed her journey to get her brother released from the British. A lot of times she acted without thinking things through first. Charlie didn't seem to be the typical British Naval Officer. He washed up on the beach where Fiona found him with no memory.  When his memory does start to return he stays and doesn't try to leave.  Although if he left, the story wouldn't have been near as interesting. 

The only negative thing I found about the book was that sometimes there was too much detail given on the battle plans. The other thing is that the exchange for Fiona's brother takes place but he is never mentioned after that.  What happened to him? Other than that I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more by Beth White.

I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Room for Hope by Kim Vogel Sawyer

In a desperate time, can Neva find forgiveness for a grievous wrong—and make room for hope?

Neva Shilling has a heavy load of responsibility while her husband travels to neighboring communities and sells items from his wagon. In his absence, she faithfully runs the Shilling Mercantile, working to keep their business strong as the Depression takes its toll, and caring for their twins.

When a wagon pulls up after supper, Neva and her children rush out—and into the presence of the deputy driving a wagon carrying three young children. The deputy shocks her with the news that Warren and his wife have died, insisting it was their last request that the three children go live with “Aunt Neva.”

Neva’s heart is shattered as she realizes that Warren’s month-long travels were excuses for visits with his secret family. She wants nothing more than to forget Warren, but can she abandon these innocent children to an orphanage? Yet if she takes them in, will she ever be able to see them as more than evidence of her husband’s betrayal and love them the way God does?

How would I feel about learning that my husband had a second wife and second family?  Devastated!!  I don't know if I would have been as accepting of his second family as Neva.  Although, the children weren't to blame for their fathers deception.  I did like the book and the struggles Neva had with carrying on with her life.  She has two men vying for her affections.  Which one will she choose.

I recommend this book to all readers.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.  I was  not compensated in any way. 

Restore My Soul: A Coloring Book

Grab your colored pencils and get ready to refresh your spirit with this coloring book devotional journey!For lovers of the Secret Garden and Enchanted Forest coloring books, Restore My Soul is a beautiful, interactive devotional designed to celebrate our unique creativity and connect us with the ultimate Creator. Find refreshment in short reflections on Scripture and be inspired as you color accompanying intricate illustrations created for meditation and prayer. Both contemplative and imaginative, Restore My Soul is the perfect space for the artist in us all.

I was excited to get this book.  The devotionals that go along with the coloring page are great.  The coloring is a great stress reliever. Some adult coloring books are very difficult. This one is not. It makes me feel like a kid again.  I highly recommend this to everyone.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.  

Like Never Before by Melissa Tagg

Maple Valley became Amelia Bentley's haven after her heart and her dreams of a family were shattered. But her new life as a newspaper editor is shaken when the small-town paper is in danger of closing. Her one hope: A lead on an intriguing story that just might impress the new publisher...if only she knew who he was.

After his biggest campaign success yet, widowed speechwriter Logan Walker now has the chance of a lifetime--a spot on a presidential campaign. But his plans are interrupted when he finds out he's inherited his hometown newspaper. He travels home intent on selling the paper and spending some much-needed time with his young daughter before making the leap into national politics.

But instead of a quick sale and peaceful break from his hectic career, Logan finds himself helping Amelia chase her story. She's scrappy, but wounded. He's dependable, but lost. They may butt heads more than expected, but a series of leads on Maple Valley's quirky unsolved mystery is just the start of the sparks that fly in the office and in their hearts.

I really enjoyed reading the next installment in the Walker family saga. All he wants to do is return to Maple Valley, sell the newspaper he inherited and be the speech writer for the next US President.  What he doesn’t anticipate is meeting Amelia Bentley.  She is the editor of the newspaper he wants to sell.  Amelia came to Maple Valley several years ago.  She was drifting until she landed in Maple Valley.  Now she can’t imagine living anywhere else.  Both Logan and Amelia are hurting.  Logan from the death of his wife and Amelia from an adoption that feel through and her recent divorce.  I saw this book as their journey from hurting individuals to confident self assured individuals.  They also are finding their way back to the God they thought had abandoned them.  There are many struggles along the way.  I won’t go into detail as I don’t want to give away any spoilers. 

I recommend this book to anyone.  It is a good clean Christian novel.  I am looking forward to reading about the next Walker family member.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

An Unbroken Heart by Kathleen Fuller

An argument. A crash. In an instant, Joanna’s world is changed forever.

One minute, Joanna Schrock was arguing with her parents, and the next, her parents’ lives were claimed in a hit-and-run buggy accident. Her body is broken, but her heart is in even deeper pain— after all, how do you cope with your parents’ deaths when your last words were spoken in anger?

After an extended stint in a physical rehabilitation center, Joanna re-enters her Amish life. But nothing is the same—not even her feelings for Andrew Beiler.

Joanna has loved Andrew since the age of twelve, and her feelings have not changed throughout the years. She is thrilled when Andrew wants to get married, but she wonders whether it’s love he’s feeling, or pity. As the couple’s wedding date approaches, Joanna isn’t overcome with the deep joy she was hoping to feel; instead, she’s wracked with anxiety and guilt.

Joanna hears God whispering to her, Be strong and courageous, but she’s afraid that courage looks a lot like walking away from her dreams and into the plan of her Heavenly Father.

This book is about Joanna’s journey to forgive herself for her part in the death of her parents. Not only does she struggle with forgiving herself, she has to heal from the injuries she sustained in the buggy accident.  She doesn’t believe she is worthy of anything anymore.  Lest of all the attentions of her boyfriend Andrew.  Andrew loves Joanna but he was never able to express his feelings very well.  His dad leaving when he was young has made him feel that he might not be a very good husband and father like his Dad. 

This was the second book in the Birch Creek series.  It isn’t necessary to read the first book in the series, but it might be helpful to understand better some of the background issues. This book wasn’t quite as good as the first book. But I still look forward to reading the next installment.

I was given this book by the publisher for an honest review.  I was not compensated in any way.

Kathleen Fuller's Amazon author page:  http://www.amazon.com/Kathleen-Fuller/e/B001JSAI22/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0