Behind the Scenes

Behind the Scenes
by
Jen Turano


MY THOUGHTS
If you have ever been stuck on the sidelines in a wallflower position, you will absolutely love this book! Jen Turano has once again created a delightful historical romance that will have you laughing and cheering on the characters as they struggle with a dastardly threat that puts their lives at risk. Miss Permilia Griswold is a feisty young woman who has been relegated to the sidelines because of her father's financial demise. In an unprecedented move she becomes friends with the other women who for whatever reason are relegated to the sidelines of posh New York society.

Turano has an amazing way of causing her readers to fall in love with characters who are so honest and flawed that one can't help but hope for their success against all odds.

I highly recommend that you read the novella, At Your Request (free for Kindle here). While Behind the Scenes truly stands alone, you will meet some of the characters and get a better feel for their situations if you read the novella first.

Honestly, I will read every book Jen Turano writes! They are all delightful.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

(From the back cover)
After spending the last six years banished to the wallflower section of the ballroom, Miss Permilia Griswold has finally figured out a way to pass the time at all the New York high-society events she attends. Under the pseudonym "Miss Quill", she is the author of society gossip columns filled with tidbits only an insider in society -- albeit one on the fringes-- would know.

When she overhears a threat against Mr. Asher Rutherford, the owner of one of the most up-and-coming department stores in the city, she's determined to warn him. But the irritatingly handsome man doesn't believer her, leaving her no choice but to take matters into her own hands. What she doesn't anticipate is that she'll end up putting herself at risk in the process -- or that she and Mr. Rutherford, a man with secrets of his own, just might end up joining forces after all.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
A USA Today Best-Selling Author, Jen Turano has written the critically acclaimed Ladies of Distinction series, and A Class of Their Own series, published through Bethany House Publishers. Her novel, After a Fashion, was chosen as a top pick from Romantic Times, as well as being named a top ten romance of 2015 from Booklist.  It is also a nominee for Romantic Times 2015 Reviewers’ Choice Award. Her book, A Most Peculiar Circumstance, was chosen as a top ten romance by Booklist in 2013. Her seventh book, Playing the Part, released in the spring of 2016, and will be followed by a new four-book series, Apart from the Crowd. When she’s not writing, Jen spends her time outside of Denver with her husband and neurotic Cattle Dog, enjoying herself as an empty-nester since her son recently abandoned her for the college life. She can be found on Facebook At https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoauthor/ or visit her on the web at www.jenturano.com. She is represented by the Natasha Kern Literary Agency. Her books may be found in fine bookstores, or follow the Baker House Publishing link to find additional places to purchase her work – http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/authors/jen-turano/1761

Moving Target

Moving Target
by
Lynette Eason

MY THOUGHTS
Moving Target is the third book in the Elite Guardians series about a group of no-nonsense women who have established a bodyguard service. This book does stand alone, but it is helpful to have read the other books because there are references that make more sense and you'll have a better feel for the secondary characters.

All of Lynette Eason's books are full of riveting suspense and surprising twists. It is easy to forget where you are when you read them! Moving Target starts off with a bang and never slows down. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters more (they are referred to in previous books in the series), and I like the way they worked together to solve the crime.

I had a bit of trouble finding this book to be as realistic as the others in the series. I found myself questioning some of the timelines and actually went back a couple of times to check things out, which is distracting. The serial killers methodology was just a bit too contrived for me.

That said, I will still read every Lynette Eason book I can get my hands on -- I love her fast paced style and the way she artfully tells a tale.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Maddy McKay and Quinn Holcombe don’t show up for Quinn’s surprise birthday party, his friends know that something is very wrong. Their search turns up little beyond evidence that Quinn and Maddy just decided to take off for a long overdue vacation. But it soon becomes apparent that they did not leave of their own accord.

Maddy awakens in a cement room with no idea where she is. But it’s not long before she realizes she’s in the clutches of a madman exacting revenge by hunting. His prey of choice? Humans. Now Maddy and Quinn must run for their lives, hoping to find their killer before the next game begins. Because if they don’t win this game, they die.

Fast, furious, and flirty, Lynette Eason’s relentless suspense barely gives her readers time to catch their breath in this third thrilling installment of the Elite Guardians series.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynette Eason grew up in Greenville, SC. After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a Business Degree she used for a very short time, she moved to Spartanburg, SC to attend Converse College where she obtained her Masters degree in Education. She started her teaching career at the South Carolina School for the deaf and blind. In 1996, she met the man she would marry—the boy next door!

She is married to Jack Eason, who speaks, leads worship, and consults ministries around the country. They have two teenage children.

Lynette’s books have appeared on the ECPA and CBA bestseller lists and have won several awards.

Thanks to Revell Publishers for providing a copy of this book for my honest review.

Rescue Me

Rescue Me
by 
Susan May Warren

MY THOUGHTS
This was a fascinating book that takes the reader behind the scenes of a mountain rescue operation. It is the third book in the Montana Rescue series, and it really stands alone. I have not read the first two books in the series (although now I want to), and while the book hints at backstories I really didn't feel like I'd missed out on critical information required for Rescue Me to make sense.

The book begins with an incident that sends the hero, Sam Brooks, into a head spin and quickly draws the reader in. The interactions between the characters are complex and fascinating, especially between siblings (Sam and his brother, and the two female characters Sierra Rose and Willow).

Warren has a way of creating a setting that takes me out of my couch and into the wilderness in just a couple of sentences! Her stories are intriguing and full of twists that keep me reading late into the night.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Deputy Sam Brooks is deeply committed to keeping the town of Mercy Falls safe. So he takes his role as liaison between the Mercy Falls Sheriff’s department and PEAK Rescue very seriously. However, he is also committed in his personal life. Once his mind is set on something – nothing can sway him.

Despite the opinions of others, Sam is sure that Sierra Rose is the perfect girl for him. She is safe, practical and organized; a far cry from her hippie, impulsive, bleeding heart sister, Willow.

Willow feels torn between her love for Sam and her desire to see her sister have a happy ending. At least for the time being, Willow focuses her attention on getting the job as youth pastor of her small-town church.

But when an arsonist strikes, Willow and Sam are forced to fight for their lives in the forbidding wilderness of Glacier National Park. Stranded and injured with the winter weather closing in, Willow and Sam will have to work together to rescue a crew of terrified teenagers. As they fight to survive, they might just discover a new hope for love.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award-winning novelist of over fifty novels. An eight-time Christy award finalist, a three-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.

A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: The Story Equation.

She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, and Novel.Academy, a school for aspiring novelists. You can find her online at www.susanmaywarren.com.

Thank you to Revell Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Mark of the King - Post 1 of 2

Mark of the King
by
Jocelyn Green


MY THOUGHTS:
Jocelyn Green makes history come alive in ways that cause the reader to rethink what was learned in history class. When I read her books, my eyes are opened to aspects of life that are almost incomprehensible -- the smell of death on a battlefield, the gut-wrenching hunger of a famine, the reality of people who will stop at nothing to get ahead, the cries of those who have gone insane from captivity. But she doesn't stop with the dire realities, her characters demonstrate the American spirit that allows us to overcome even the worst atrocities to live meaningful lives.

The Mark of the King follows the life of Julianne Chevalier, a midwife who is wrongfully imprisoned and is given the 'opportunity' to travel from France to begin populating the new territory of Louisiana, specifically New Orleans. Long before there was a town, she arrives and works to build a life in this new world.

Green creates a story based on historical facts, many not told in our generic history books. She's searched records and journals to find out what really went on in those early days and she's created characters who robustly recreate those humble beginnings.

This book was really hard to put down -- I wasn't interested in taking a break to eat or sleep! It is a fascinating story that left me wanting to find out more about the lives and times of the development of New Orleans. Each of Green's books has had this effect on me -- awakening a renewed love for the early history of our country.

In the next few days I'll post more information about the background of the book and some Q and A's with the author!

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Life in This New World Requires More Strength Than She Ever Imagined.
After the death of her client, midwife Julianne Chevalier is imprisoned and branded, marking her as a criminal beyond redemption. Hoping to reunite with her brother, a soldier, she trades her life sentence for exile to the fledgling French colony of Louisiana. The price of her transport, however, is a forced marriage to a fellow convict. New Orleans is nothing like Julianne expects. The settlement is steeped in mud and mosquitoes, and there is no news of her brother, Benjamin. When tragedy strikes, she turns to military officer Marc-Paul Girard for help, but does he know more about her brother than he will admit? With her dreams shattered, Julianne must find her way in this dangerous land, where only grace--and love--can overcome the stigma of the king's mark upon her shoulder.

Endorsements:

"The Mark of the King grabbed me from the first scene and wouldn't let me go! The setting is vibrant, unique, and full of fascinating true details about the early French settlement in New Orleans. With arranged marriages, forced immigration, and struggles against starvation, the elements, and warring natives, the story is riveting. A must-read!" Jody Hedlund, Christy Award-winning author

"A page-turner of a tale set against France's early struggles to colonize Louisiana, The Mark of the King bears all the marks of the best historical fiction--rich attention to detail, settings historically accurate and lushly depicted, a complex and layered plot, diverse cultures vividly portrayed, and the ever-present sense of the larger forces of time and place shaping the lives and destinies of characters I came to care about. The unjustly exiled Julianne is a woman to admire and cheer, the soldier Marc-Paul a man of strength and devotion. Lovers of historical fiction will be transported by this beautifully written novel of the early 18th-century frontier." Lori Benton, award-winning author of The Wood's Edge and A Flight of Arrows

Review: "Exquisitely penned, this look at colonial Louisiana is enhanced by Green's attention to detail, creating memorable characters and vivid scenes. . . . Rich with history and redemption, Green's latest is ideal for fans of Lynn Austin or Laura Frantz." RT Book ReviewsVideo:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
 Jocelyn Green is the award-winning author of a dozen books, including fiction and nonfiction. A former military wife herself, she offers encouragement and hope to military wives worldwide through her Faith Deployed books and The 5 Love Languages Military Edition, which she co-authored with best-selling author Dr. Gary Chapman. Her Heroines Behind the Lines Civil War novels, inspired by real heroines on America’s home front, are marked by their historical integrity and gritty inspiration. Jocelyn graduated from Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, with a B.A. in English, concentration in writing. She loves Mexican food, Broadway musicals, Toblerone chocolate bars, the color red, and reading on her patio. Jocelyn lives with her husband Rob, two children, and two cats in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Visit her at www.jocelyngreen.com. Connect with her also on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

Thanks to the publisher for offering me a chance to read a pre-publication copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Finding Riley

Finding Riley
by
Dan Walsh

MY THOUGHTS
Dan Walsh has a way of bringing a voice to animals that is charming and endearing. Finding Riley is the second book in the Forever Home series (the first is Rescuing Finley), but it definitely can stand alone (however I recommend reading Rescuing Finley -- it's fabulous!).

I really enjoyed the story line of this book -- what a great concept to integrate shelter pets with the homeless! Dan really brings out the difficulties and lifestyle of the homeless who live in tent cities -- a place most of us never see.

The writing in this book was not quite up to what I've seen Dan do in the past. Some of the characters and conversations seemed a bit simplistic and forced, but that did not detract from the story. Dan definitely has great insight into the behavior and perspectives of dogs, as demonstrated both in this book and Rescuing Finley.

If you are interested in a sweet book that provides insight to both the lives of the homeless and the perspectives of dogs, this is a good one!

ABOUT THE BOOK
An unexpected surprise brings the Mitchell family of Savannah a chance to experience the Christmas trip of their dreams. An unexpected disappointment threatens to turn it into the worst Christmas ever. John Finch and his friend Alfred live in the woods. Been doing it for decades. He likes wintering in Florida, but this year’s been particularly harsh. Between the cold, freezing rain and terrifying lightning storms, John’s starting to wonder how much more of this lifestyle he can take. A new friend enters the picture and changes everything. Kim Harper, the dog trainer introduced in Rescuing Finley, is contacted by a billionaire philanthropist seeking her help with a new dog training project that will help the homeless. Is he for real? And is her co-worker right, does this rich handsome man’s interest in Kim go far deeper than her dog-training skills?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dan grew up in Florida and his primary interests through high school were basketball and surfing. In 1985, he was ordained as a pastor and served in the same church for the next 25 years. In August 2010, after three of his novels were published by Revell-Baker Publishing Group, Dan retired to write full time.

Dan's novels have received rave reviews from USA Today and magazines like Publisher's Weekly, Library Journal and RT Book Reviews. His first, The Unfinished Gift, won two ACFW Carol Awards. His other books have won numerous awards and appeared on several national bestseller lists.

Dan has published seventeen novels. In addition to writing, Dan enjoys public speaking. He is married to Cindi and they have two children and two grandchildren.

I received a free electronic copy of this book with no expectations for a review.

Finding Margo

Finding Margo
by
Jen Turano


MY THOUGHTS
Ok, I admit I pretty much only read books I love because my life is pretty crazy and I don't have much time for reading. So whenever Jen Turano writes a new book it immediately jumps to the top of my Must Read list!

Up to this point Jen's books have all been historical romances with a hysterical story line. I have learned that I must not drink ANYTHING while I read her books unless I intend to spew my coffee (or whatever) all over my Kindle because they are that funny!

I was curious about Finding Margo because it's her first contemporary romance. Honestly I'm not much for fiction with the primary intent being romance -- I really love a good mystery or suspense book that just happens to have some romantic chemistry best. Finding Margo definitely fit the bill -- within the first couple of chapters I was both intrigued and laughing at the crazy situations Margo encounters. This book also had me in tears -- something that doesn't happen often when I read.

Turano takes us behind the scenes of the pop music icon who just happens to become stranded in an Amish small town that is hauntingly familiar. After a couple of attempts on her life, Margo learns that the quiet community is not all it seems. Add a hunky FBI agent and a slightly injured duck and this book has all the elements of a best seller!

Turano has another winner -- I highly recommend Finding Margo (well, only if you want to laugh).

ABOUT THE BOOK
Off the charts and on the run.

International pop star Margo Hartman could use a night off. A grueling tour and overbearing entourage have sent her over the edge. It's time for this diva to disappear. And who would think to look for the superstar in a small Dutch town in Ohio?
Sheriff's deputy Brock Moore is undercover as well. He knows Margo isn't who she appears to be, but her uncanny resemblance to a local Amish woman is raising all sorts of questions... the kind that make her a target for a killer.
Both are determined to find answers, but their mutual attraction stands in the way of either of them doing it alone.
Is finding Margo the solution to Brock's problems or just the beginning...?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A USA Today Best-Selling Author, Jen Turano has written the critically acclaimed Ladies of Distinctionseries, and A Class of Their Own series, published through Bethany House Publishers. Her novel, After a Fashion, was chosen as a top pick from Romantic Times, as well as being named a top ten romance of 2015 from Booklist.  It is also a nominee for Romantic Times 2015 Reviewers’ Choice Award. Her book, A Most Peculiar Circumstance, was chosen as a top ten romance by Booklist in 2013. Her seventh book, Playing the Part, released in the spring of 2016, and will be followed by a new four-book series, Apart from the Crowd. When she’s not writing, Jen spends her time outside of Denver with her husband and neurotic Cattle Dog, enjoying herself as an empty-nester since her son recently abandoned her for the college life. She can be found on Facebook or visit her on the web at www.jenturano.com. She is represented by the Natasha Kern Literary Agency. Her books may be found in fine bookstores, or follow the Baker House Publishing link to find additional places to purchase her work.

Tangled Webs

Tangled Webs
by
Irene Hannon

MY THOUGHTS
Have I said before that I love Irene Hannon's books? Every one I read is better than the last. She develops wonderful series based on complex characters who find themselves in difficult but realistic situations. I am holding her personally responsible for my laundry not getting done and dinner not being ready on time -- her books are SO hard to put down!

Tangled Webs takes place in central Missouri in the Mark Twain Forest region, where coincidentally I was travelling the same weekend I read the book. Her descriptions of those who hide in the woods to make meth had me looking carefully around ever turn, adding additional suspense to a book that I was already having a tough time putting down.

It is not necessary to read the first two books in the Men of Valor series, Buried Secrets and Thin Ice, but it helps to give a bit of background on the McGregor hunks. It was extremely satisfying to finally learn Finn's secrets and to meet him 'up close and personal'. If you like suspense, I highly recommend this book and any of Irene Hannon's work.

ABOUT THE BOOK

After a disastrous Middle East mission ends his six-year Army Ranger career, Finn McGregor needs some downtime. A peaceful month in the woods sounds like the perfect way to decompress. But peace isn't on the agenda once he crosses paths with publishing executive Dana Lewis, a neighbor who is nursing wounds of her own. Someone seems bent on disrupting her stay in the lakeside cabin she inherited from her grandfather. As Finn and Dana work together to discover who is behind the disquieting pranks, the incidents begin to take on a menacing tone. And when it becomes apparent Dana's foe may have deadly intent, Finn finds himself back in the thick of the action--ready or not.

Bestselling author Irene Hannon draws readers into a web of psychological suspense where danger lurks in dark corners . . . and keeps them captive until the very last page.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Irene Hannon is a bestselling, award-winning author who has written more than 50 romantic suspense and contemporary romance/women’s fiction novels. She is a seven-time finalist for and three-time winner of the RITA award—the “Oscar” of romance fiction—and a member of the Romance Writers of America Hall of Fame. Her books have also won a Daphne du Maurier award, two Carol awards, three HOLT Medallions, a National Readers’ Choice award, a Retailers Choice award, two Booksellers’ Best awards and two Reviewers’ Choice awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. One of her novels was also named by Booklist as a top 10 inspirational fiction books of 2011. In addition, she is a two-time Christy award finalist.

Irene, who holds a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in journalism, juggled two careers for many years until she gave up her executive corporate communications position with a Fortune 500 company to write full time. She is happy to say she has no regrets!

In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, gardening and singing.  A trained vocalist, she has sung the leading role in numerous musicals, including “South Pacific,” “Brigadoon,” “Oklahoma” “The King and I” and “Anything Goes.” She is also a soloist at her church.

When not otherwise occupied, Irene and her husband enjoy traveling, Saturday mornings at their favorite coffee shop and spending time with family. They make their home in Missouri.

The Room with the Second-Best View

The Room with the Second-Best View
by
Virginia Smith

MY THOUGHTS:
I am in love with the Goose Creek B&B Series! The characters are (mostly) lovable and well crafted, the town is full of drama and fun, and there are recipes! This third book in the series pulls together the other two in ways that are surprising, laughable, and just pure fun. Virginia Smith has a wonderful way of making every day crises into moments that bring people together and often result in them laughing at themselves as they work through issues. I'd highly recommend reading the first two books and the prequel to get the full story.

The Room With the Second-Best View shows how strong marriages can evolve and survive as people begin second careers and deal with unexpected issues. It addresses how new marriages can overcome unforeseen obstacles and demonstrates how struggles between friends can result in new commitments. And it does it all with a great dose of humor.

Virginia Smith has another winner!

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Excitement is in the air in Goose Creek, Kentucky, as the small town prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary and the veterinarian's upcoming wedding. But trouble is brewing in this provincial paradise...

Al Richardson agreed to open a B&B with his wife after his retirement in two years, but Millie secretly invites some guests to stay for the wedding. She plans to be the most gracious Southern hostess -- until a tumble down the stairs leaves her unprepared for their quirky and cantankerous first guest.

Meanwhile, the town's anniversary plans are in a state of chaos as the celebration committee scrambles to raise the necessary funds -- an effort spearheaded by a "newcomer," which ruffles the townsfolk's feathers. 

Goose Creek has lasted 150 years. Can it survive the next month?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Virginia Smith is the bestselling author of more than thirty novels. Her books have received numerous awards, including two Holt Medallion Awards of Merit. An avid reader with eclectic tastes in fiction, Ginny writes in a variety of styles, from lighthearted relationship stories to breath-snatching

 suspense. Visit her at www.VirginiaSmith.org.

MISSING
by
Lisa Harris


MY THOUGHTS:
This is the second book in the Nikki Boyd Files about a woman who is expert at finding missing persons. The first book in the series, Vendetta, won the 2015 Romantic Times Best Inspirational Suspense Novel award, so while you will want to read it because it's FABULOUS, it isn't really necessary to read before picking up Missing.

This story is full of incredible twists and turns which kept me from putting this book down - I finished it in just a few hours! I really appreciate the depth of the characters in the story. Nikki is a former teacher who changed careers after her young sister got kidnapped. Tyler is the husband of Nikki's best friend who died, and now the two of them provide each other support and friendship.

Missing kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time -- every time I thought I figured it out there was a new clue thrown in the mix that made me even more intrigued. This is a fast paced story with a well orchestrated plot that will force you to keep reading! I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.


ABOUT THE BOOK:
Nikki Boyd isn't usually called in on homicides, her forte is missing persons. But when a case with two murdered and two missing pops up on a quiet suburban street, she's ready to start he investigation and find missing homeowners Mac and Lucy Hudson. When the first clues lead her to the boat of her friend, Tyler Grant -- and another dead body -- Nikki must untangle what ties Tyler to the Hudsons. The clues pull her into a deadly maze of counterfeit drugs and a killer who will stop at nothing to silence anyone who threatens his business -- including Nikki.





ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Harris is a best selling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense novel for 2011 from Romantic Times. She is the author of nearly thirty books, including the Southern Crimes series and Vendetta, winner of the Romantic Times Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2015. Harris and her family have spent twelve years living as missionaries in southern Africa. Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com.

Planted With Hope

Planted With Hope
by
Tricia Goyer and Sherry Gore

MY THOUGHTS
This is the second book in the Pinecraft Pie Shop series about an Amish family that lives in Pinecraft, Florida. The first book was Made With Love -- it was a great read but it's not necessary to read it first to enjoy Planted with Hope.

I knew this book was different right away -- it's one of the few books I've read that features a person with strong introvert tendencies as the main character! Hope is a young woman who is happiest when she is working alone in her garden, and being in a crowd seriously stresses her out. Goyer and Gore did a great job creating her character, and I really enjoyed getting to know Hope. This may sound a bit goofy, but they even let the reader get to know Hope in a way that an introvert would enjoy, which made the story even more intriguing to me. I love the way the authors allow Hope to grow without trying to change the essence of her personality.

Both authors have strong links to the Amish community, which makes all aspects of the series more authentic. I really enjoyed the peek into a different way of life, and best of all the book is full of fabulous recipes that I can't wait to try.

You can buy the book HERE


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ABOUT THE BOOK (from the back cover):
When Hope Miller is offered the plot of land behind her sister's pie shop to start a garden, she jumps at the chance. Finally -- some space away from her four sisters! But everyone in town seems to have an opinion about what she should grow and how she should grow it.

When the widowed schoolteacher, Jonas Sutter, asks if his students at the Amish school can help turn the plot into a community garden, Hope wonders if she will ever find the peace and quiet she craves. But God has a different plan for Hope -- a plan that will open her heart to all the blessings in front of her.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Tricia Goyer is a USA Today bestselling author with over 50 books to her name. She's well-known for her Big Sky and Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors Amish series. For more information visit Tricia at www.TriciaGoyer.com







Sherry Gore is the author of Simply Delicious Amish Cooking and Me, Myself and Pie and is a weekly scribe for the Amish newspaper, the Budget. Sherry's culinary adventures have been seen on NBC Daytime,  Today.com, and Mr. Food Test Kitchen. Sherry is a resident of Sarasota, Florida. She has three children and is a member of a Beachy Amish Mennonite church.

Renovating the Richardsons

Renovating the Richardsons
by
Virginia Smith

MY THOUGHTS:
Time to relax on the veranda with a glass of sweet iced tea and visit with friends from Goose Creek! 

I am loving this series -- it takes the reader away from the stresses of our crazy life and lets her gently smile at the craziness of life in a small town full of big character. Oh, there are stresses for those who live there, but there is a just a different feel about it. Life moves at a different pace, issues are resolved creatively, and love and laughter just come naturally.

Ginny Smith crafts each word in this story in such a way that the reader forgets about the words and steps right into the waiting room of the new veterinarian or sits right on the sidelines of the big softball game cheering for the team. I found myself forgetting that I was reading and I lost all track of time as I got caught up in the story -- that doesn't happen often in our crazy life.

The Tales from the Goose Creek B and B series is just like a breath of fresh air. I can't wait to sit back and enjoy the next book!


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Things are finally starting to fall into a steady rhythm in the small town of Goose Creek, Kentucky. Millie Richardson is hard at work renovating a drafty Victorian house into a B&B. Her husband, Al, is busy writing checks for the renovations. And the new vet, Susan, has finally found acceptance from the town—not to mention a hunky new boyfriend, Justin.

But things never stay quiet for long in Goose Creek. The inner-county softball game is coming up, and Millie volunteers Al as team manager. But the softball team is a disaster. If they’re not going to embarrass themselves in front of the whole of Franklin County, Al needs Justin to play. But Justin lives just outside the city limits, and the rules say that players must live in town.

As if that weren’t enough to keep the town gossips busy, a massage therapist has come to town and opened up shop. Imagine—a massage parlor!—in Goose Creek! No decent Creeker will stand for it.

It’s up to Al and Millie—again—to save the day.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Virginia Smith is the bestselling author of twenty-six novels, an illustrated children's book, and more than fifty articles and short stories. An avid reader with eclectic tastes in fiction, Ginny writes in a variety of styles, from lighthearted relationship stories to breath-snatching suspense. Her books have been named finalists in the Daphne du Maurier Award of Excellence in Mystery/Suspense, the Maggie awards, American Christian Fiction Writer's Book of the Year Award, ACFW's Carol Award, and the National Readers Choice Award. Two of her novels A Daughter's Legacy and Dangerous Impostor, received a Holt Medallion Award of Merit. In 2008 she was honored to receive the prestigious Writer of the Year Award at Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference.

When she isn't writing or speaking, Ginny and her husband, Ted, enjoy exploring the extremes of nature – snow skiing in the Wasatch Mountains near Salt Lake City, motorcycle riding on the curvy roads in central Kentucky, and scuba diving in the warm waters of Mexico and the Caribbean.

The Prophetess

The Prophetess
by
Jill Eileen Smith

MY THOUGHTS:
Jill Eileen Smith knows how to make the Bible come to life.
She has written several stories about the life and times of women in the Bible, and she is a master of historical fiction.
Deborah, the prophetess and judge of Israel, has always been an intriguing character. She was the only female judge named in the Bible, and she ruled during a deadly time. How did she, as a woman, get the respect of the Israelite people to fill this difficult role? How did that play out in her daily life?
Smith has done a ton of research -- so much so that the reading of the book flows as smoothly as if the reader were watching the action live. She has created life-like relationships between Deborah and her family/community that fleshes out the little information we find in the book of Judges. 
This book will help the reader understand biblical history, life during the tough times of war, and the blessings of following God's lead no matter the cost.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Canaan has ravaged Israel. The people are in hiding. All that stands between surrender and hope is one untested woman. 

Deborah will never forget the day her father and brothers left to worship at the Lord's tabernacle--or the wails of her mother after finding their bodies at the city gates. The memories of Canaan's cruelty haunt her and all of Israel. Now in this dark time, the Lord calls on Deborah to lead His people away from the idols of other nations and back to Him. 

Deborah never asked to be a prophetess or a judge over God's people. Still, she cannot deny His voice or the visions that accompany it. Can her family ever understand? Will her people believe God's calling on her life? And can the Canaanite menace be stopped?

With her trademark impeccable research and imaginative storytelling, Jill Eileen Smith brings to life the story of Israel's most powerful woman in this intriguing and inspiring novel.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jill Eileen Smith is the author of the bestselling Wives of King David series and The Crimson Cord, as well as the Wives of the Patriarchs and the Loves of King Solomon series. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Old Testament times. She lives with her family in southeast Michigan.

Jill loves to hear from her readers. Contact her at www.jilleileensmith.com, or follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith or Twitter 

Always Watching

Always Watching
by
Lynette Eason

MY THOUGHTS:
Don't pick up this book if you don't have time to finish it! You will NOT want to put it down. 

Lynette Eason is a master of high paced suspense. Her characters are well crafted -- they have strengths and skills as well as weaknesses and faults. She puts the reader right in the center of the action. 
There are a LOT of characters in this book -- many of whom could be the stalker! Even with that many names it was pretty easy to keep track of who was whom as the book progressed. I thought I'd figured out the stalker about four different times -- and it was fun to find out the true one in the end.

If you like a fast paced book full of intrigue and action, this is a great book for you. I"m looking forward to reading more books in this series, Elite Guardians. It is about a group of women who have formed their own body guard/protection agency -- they are strong and well qualified, and they do an amazing job!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Intensity. Skill. Tenacity.
The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have it all.

When it becomes clear that popular psychiatrist and radio personality Wade Savage has a stalker, his father secretly hires Elite Guardians to protect his son. But when Wade's bodyguard is attacked and nearly killed, agency owner Olivia Edwards must step in and fill the gap. 

Olivia's skills are about to be tested to the limit as Wade's stalker moves from leaving innocent gifts at his door to threatening those closest to him--including Olivia. But in her mind, even more dangerous than the threats to her life is the hold her handsome client has on her heart.

"Lynette has written another fast-paced book. It's a race against death."--DiAnn Mills, author of Deadlock

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lynette Eason is the bestselling author of the Women of Justice, the Deadly Reunions, and the Hidden Identity series. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She lives in South Carolina. Learn more at www.lynetteeason.com.

Playing the Part

Playing the Part
by
Jen Turano


MY THOUGHTS
I have been waiting for so long (it seems) to read this book -- Jen Turano does such a good job of creating her characters that I long to read more about them. Whenever I pick one up I feel like I'm about to have an adventure with an old friend. Playing the Part gives the reader time to get to know Lucetta Plum, the beautiful actress we've met a few times in prior books.

As usual, Jen creates a whirlwind of activity surrounding some romantic tension and lots of laughs to bring another time in history alive. This book left me thinking about the story line for a long time after I was finished -- each character plays a part in their lives that others perceive as the real 'them'. As we all do in real life I suppose. As a result I've done a good bit of thinking about who I am really versus who others perceive me to be. Good fodder for prayer and contemplation!

Jen has turned out another winner. Playing the Part is full of quirky characters, fabulous homes, great friends, a huge dash of intrigue, and of course a few fun animals that add life and laughter. I'm already looking forward to her next book!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Lucetta Plum is an actress on the rise in New York City, but is forced to abandon her starring role when a fan’s interest turns threatening. Lucinda’s widowed friend, Abigail Hart, is delighted at the opportunity to meddle in Lucetta’s life and promptly whisks her away to her grandson’s estate to hide out.

Bram Haverstein may appear to simply be a somewhat eccentric gentleman of means, but a mysterious career and a secret fascination with a certain actress mean there’s much more to him than society knows.

Lucetta, who has no interest in Abigail’s matchmaking machinations, has the best intentions of remaining cordial but coolly distant to Bram. But when she can’t ignore the strange and mysterious things going on in his house, it’ll take more than good intentions to keep her from trying to discover who Bram is behind the part he plays.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jen Turano is the critically acclaimed author of The Ladies of Distinction Series, published through Bethany House.  Her novel, A Most Peculiar Circumstance, was chosen by Booklist as a Top Ten Romance for 2013.

Playing the Part is Jen's eighth book, and the third book in the A Class of Their Own series.

When Jen’s not writing, she spends her time hiking around Colorado, socializing with friends and family, and taking great pride in watching Dominic, who will soon be off to college, turn into a remarkable young man.  (For readers of A Change of Fortune – Dominic was the inspiration behind little Ben – which is why you won’t be surprised to learn Jen’s been slightly taken aback over the fact Dominic’s turned out so well.)

Learn more about her, her books, and the Guilded Age at her website, HERE.