Welcome to my Book Review Blog. My goal is to connect readers with the wonderful and amazing books I am blessed to reveiw. And to introduce you to the talented and wonderful authors responsible for writing these books. May my love for books show through my reviews on this site.
Stella is the oldest of three sisters and she’s got a long history of being the one to protect and provide for her family. When a dangerous threat sent the Fairfax sisters on a wagon train journey west, Stella knew her best bet was to disguise herself as a man to keep herself and her sisters safe.
Collin Mason has secrets of his own. And his family isn’t short on drama either, not with his troublemaking twin and an older brother about to get hitched. But he’s the only one who sees the real Stella—and that she needs help.
Collin sees the vulnerability Stella tries so hard to hide. When he becomes the only one she can trust and she discovers that danger has followed her family, Stella must rely on him despite her reluctance…
I have always enjoyed wagon train stories, be it watching a movie or reading a book, which I prefer. I find that Trail of Secrets is a very nice story with lots of secrets in the mix. I really enjoyed the historical parts of the story, which was basically all of the book but some parts are better than others. I loved the detailed scenes all throughout the story. It was interesting to follow the wagon train on their journey. There’s a lot of hard work involved in traveling so far. In a way I would have loved going on one of their journeys, but then I’m not sure I would want the loss and everything they go through.
Trail of Secrets by Lacy Williams is getting Five Stars from me! I want to read the.first book in this series, and I can’t wait to see what Lacy Williams has for us next.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
About the Author
Lacy Williams wishes her writing career was more like what you see in Hallmark movies: dreamy brainstorming from a French chateau or a few minutes at the computer in a million-dollar New York City penthouse. In reality, she’s up before the sun, putting words on the page before her kids wake up for the day. Those early-morning and late-night writing sessions add up, and Lacy has published sixty books in a decade, first with a big five publisher and then as an indie author. When she needs to refill the well, you can find Lacy birdwatching, gardening, biking with the kiddos, or walking the dog. Find tons of bonus scenes and reader extras by becoming a VIP reader at http://www.lacywilliams.net/vip .
Honor and Fidelity. That is the motto of the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Borinqueneers, the only Puerto Rican unit in the United States Army.
Since the regiment’s creation in 1899, the men of the 65th have proudly served the US through multiple wars, despite facing racial discrimination. Their courage, loyalty, and patriotism earned them hundreds of accolades, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014.
But the honor and fidelity of the men of the 65th came into question in 1952, in the midst of the Korean War, when ninety-one Borinqueneers were arrested and tried for desertion and disobeying orders. How could this happen in one of the most distinguished and decorated units of the Army?
In this telling of one of the forgotten stories of the Korean War, author Talia Aikens-Nuñez guides us through the history of the Borinqueneers and the challenges they faced leading up to what was the largest court martial in the entire war. Rediscover the bravery of the men of the 65th through Aikens-Nuñez’s thorough writing and the soldiers’ firsthand accounts of the Korean War.
Excerpt
“The Borinqueneers successfully defended the 1st Marine Division’s retreat, but they soon realized this was only part of a much larger withdrawal of UNC [United Nations Command] troops. As the retreat continued into mid-December, news came that the enemy buildup had accelerated. Chinese and North Korean forces were gathering and converging on Hungnam. The UNC’s worst fears were coming true: they were losing ground in the war.
They had to accelerate their plans in response to protect their troops and evacuate the Korean refugees that had fled to Hungnam. They ordered troops to board ships, division by division, and sail south to Pusan… Meanwhile, the 65th and the 3rd Infantry Divisions would hold the main line of resistance, providing enough cover for everyone to make it safely out of Hungnam…With each withdrawal, the enemy continued to push the Borinqueneers and the 3rd Infantry Division.
…They were exhausted from several days of fighting…The soldiers of the 65th were some of the last to leave Hungnam. They were hurried and squeezed tightly onto the final boats. Finally, they could rest and relax. Once they left, the military would destroy the port so the enemy could not use the equipment and facilities against them.
…After they loaded onto the final ship and set sail, the dynamite detonated. The soldiers looked back and watched the port explode…everything – erupted in smoke and flame.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Talia Aikens-Nuñez is passionate about sharing with young readers the little known stories, accomplishments, and contributions of people of color from all throughout history. Aikens-Nuñez is the author of Small Nap, Little Dream, a bilingual Spanish/English picture book. She and her husband live in Connecticut with their two children.
Tess is as scattered as the toys and clothes all over her floor. She flits from one activity to another and forms the habit of never finishing anything.
But when her dream is on the line, she discovers the importance of not getting distracted so she can finish what she starts.
Do Your Best, Tess! is a read-aloud participation book. The reader will encourage and cheer for Tess as she learns to truly do her best.
Do Your Best, Tess! by Janet Morris Grimes is a cute book teaching children some very valuable lessons. Tess has never completed anything she does. But when an opportunity comes up, that has to change abd Tess needs to make sure everything she starts gets finished.
I love this cute little book, and I think it will be an awesome addition to your child. The lessons of doing your best and finishing what you started will help children start this from an early age. I love the very bright and vibrant illustrations by Jake Robbins are fabulous and go perfectly tly with the story. I love the characters he has created as they make the story come to life. I’m give this book Five Stars!!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
About the Author
Janet Morris Grimes may not have realized she was a writer at the time, but her earliest childhood memories were spent creating fairy-tale stories of the father she never knew. That desire to connect with the mysterious man in a treasured photograph gave her a deep love for the endless possibilities of a healing and everlasting story.
A wife of one, mother of three, and Tootsie to four, Janet currently writes from her quiet two-acre corner of the world near Elizabethtown, KY.
Her debut novel, Solomon’s Porch, was a 2022 American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Awards Finalist.
More from Janet
The idea for this series started over twenty-five years ago, when it was my turn to write a skit for our children’s worship service at church. I came up with a rhyming, read-aloud, interactive story where the kids could help the main character make better choices. They loved it, and they remembered the fun catch phrase long after that night. We created some great memories through the story, and that’s what I hope to offer to children of today.
Do Your Best, Tess! is about a little girl who’s learning to finish what she starts, and why that’s so important. Tess gets distracted easily, and I think we can all relate, especially with today’s culture.
I so enjoy reading this story to my own grandchildren. They love helping Tess remember to put forth her best effort, even when she doesn’t feel like doing so.
Will send print books out: USA Tour dates: Mar 6 to Mar 24, 2023
Content Rating: PG-13 + M.
There is some bad language and references to sex scenes, but no explicit sex scenes.
Book Description:
Through the eyes of an overachiever, the schemes of a homewrecker, the magic of a bottle of wine, and a CAT, award-winning author Valerie Taylor propels this captivating and heart-warming romance to an unpredictable and delightful conclusion.
Kassie O’Callaghan is searching … for herself and for answers. With her husband six feet under and an engagement ring on her finger, Kassie is convinced managing a company merger in Paris will complete her quest for recognition on her own terms. When she learns her fiancé’s ex-girlfriend is pregnant, Kassie’s dreams come tumbling down. At least for the moment.
Despite pleas from her younger fiancé to stay in Boston and a warning from her best friend forever of what’s at stake should she leave, Kassie heads to Paris with courage and perseverance. There, she stumbles into a world of wine and roses as she tries to put the wisdom of her experience to the ultimate test.
When a Greek businessman tries to rescue her, Kassie discovers-in life-it’s not whether you win or lose, it’s the way you love that counts.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Valerie Taylor is back with the third and final book in the What’s Not Series, What’s Not Lost. This is ok to read as a stand alone, but it’s best if you read all three in order. The main reason is you will know the characters better, which you will enjoy more and you will know the story more. This cast of characters are complicated, to say the lease. The story is full of manipulations and there are betrayals on every hand. With all of the twists and turns added to that, your head will be spinning.
It was good to visit with some of the characters of the other books to see what was going on with them. I enjoyed knowing more about Kassie. After the death of her husband, her world was a mixture of twists and turns as she navigates through her business and takes off to Paris with her business. And you have to read the book fir the rest. There is much going on here. As the end nears, I think Taylor does a really nice job of weaving everything together to an ending everyone would enjoy.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Six years retired, three years a published novelist, always a reader of good stories. Valerie Taylor was born and raised in Stamford, CT. She had a thirty-year career in the financial services industry as a marketer and writer. After her divorce, she spread her wings and relocated her career to Boston and then to Seattle. When she retired, she resettled in her home state to be near her two grown children and granddaughter. Taylor’s a member of the Westport Writer’s Workshop, the Independent Book Publisher’s Association, the CT Authors and Publishers Association, and the Women’s Fiction Writer’s Association. She’s a published book reviewer with BookTrib.com. She enjoys practicing tai chi and being an expert sports spectator. With the expected release in February 2023, What’s Not Lost is the final season in the What’s Not trilogy. Her debut, What’s Not Said, was published in 2020, with the sequel, What’s Not True, following closely in 2021. Taylor’s next journey will be into the world of cozy mysteries.
Book Title: The Connection Game: A Novel by S.S Turner Category: Adult Fiction (18+) , 272 pages Genre: Literary Fiction Publisher: The Story Plant Release date: Feb 2023 Format available for review: print-softback (USA ), e-book (MOBI FILE (FOR KINDLE), EPUB, PDF, NetGalley download) Will send print books out: USA Tour dates: Mar 21 to Apr 11, 2023 Content Rating: PG: There’s some violence and a small bit of profanity.
My Rating: Four Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“A one-of-a-kind tale … a surprising and entertaining piece of work.” – Bill Fitzhugh, author of A Perfect Harvest.
Book Description:
Benny Basilworth makes connections. A rare intellect, he sees things that others don’t see and draws conclusions that others completely fail to grasp. He has the kind of mind that can make a person a national sensation on the television gameshow “The Connection Game”– and the kind of mind that can be the target of predators.
Despite his brilliance, Benny and his family find themselves destitute, living in a basement apartment with one tiny window that affords them only the view of the feet of passersby on the street above. It is from this vantagepoint that Benny once again starts making connections. Mad, inconceivable connections. Connections that can change lives . . . and turn the entire world upside down.
Humorous, surprising, wise, and remarkably perceptive, The Connection Game is a novel unlike any other and one that you are unlikely to forget.
On the TV show The Connection Game, Benny shows himself as being a very smart and and intelligent person. But as smart as Benny is, he and his family ends up living on a basement apartment. I can’t imagine my only view out of the house is people’s feet as they walk by! It’s hard to believe this smart person ends up like this.
I will have to say, this is a very different book that what I have read before. The writing style is different, but despite all of that, I found myself not wanting to put the book down. The characters are believable and I kinda got attached to them. There is a lot of emotions going on, and at the same time, there’s a lot of humor throughout the book. All in all it turned out to be a pretty good read. Would I encourage others to read? Yes I would. I think this is a book that anyone can enjoy. Since it’s about a game show, those who enjoy this type of TV would certainly enjoy reading this. I’ve giving The Connection Game Four Stars. I hope you will find enjoyment in reading this one!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Meet the Author:
S.S. Turner has been an avid reader, writer, and explorer of the natural world throughout his life, which has been spent in England, Scotland, and Australia. He worked in the global fund management sector for many years but realized it didn’t align with his values. In recent years, he’s been focused on inspiring positive change through his writing as well as trying not to laugh in unfortunate situations. He now lives in Australia with his wife, daughter, two dogs, two cats, and ten chickens. He is the author of one previous novel, Secrets of a River Swimmer.
When everything crumbles, her chance for a new beginning hangs in the balance.
Ruth Anniston survived an injury that left her physically scarred, broken, and angry at God. Now, she finds herself working behind the scenes as a kitchen and dining room supervisor at the El Tovar Hotel, hidden away from curious eyes and with little hope of finding love. When money begins to disappear from the hotel, Ruth’s entire livelihood is put at risk when she lands on the list of suspects.
Frank Henderson has at last succeeded in obtaining his dream job as head chef at the El Tovar. But competition in the kitchen is fierce, and one mistake could cost him his future. As the thefts at the hotel continue, and his affection for Ruth grows, Frank’s career–and his heart–are in jeopardy.
As tensions run high, Ruth and Frank must work together to save the El Tovar. They find themselves growing closer . . . but can their combined ingenuity overcome the odds against them?
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
The El Tovar Hotel is in trouble, but who could be the criminal causing so many problems for the hotel? With money missing, several of the employees are afraid of losing their jobsL unless they can help find who the crooked person is.
This is actually my first book by Author Kimberley Woodhouse, so I have not read the first two books in this series. Though I think reading the books in order would be the proper way to read them, the author does a great job of filling everyone in so we don’t get lost in the characters. I enjoyed the intriguing characters and the way they developed as the story unfolds. I really like Ruth and her enduring personality. She is one lady I would definitely want to work with. She and Frank worked together well, and their seeking out whodunit was well worth the read. I didn’t want to put this book down, the plot had me glued to the story until the finish. I love when stories have a lot of twists and turns, and this is one of those stories. It kept me hopping around trying to figure out what was going on. I am giving A Mark of Grace Five Stars! If you enjoy a good Edge of your seat thriller, this one is for you!
A special thanks to the author/publisher and Celebrate Lit for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Kimberley Woodhouse (www.kimberleywoodhouse.com) is an award-winning, bestselling author of more than 30 fiction and nonfiction books. Kim and her incredible husband of 30-plus years live in the Poconos, where they play golf together, spend time with their kids and grandbaby, and research all the history around them.
More from Kimberley
It is such a thrill to be able to bring readers A Mark of Grace, book three in my Secrets of the Canyon series. These books have been near and dear to me since 2009, right from the moment the idea of setting a Harvey Girls series at the El Tovar on the rim of the Grand Canyon first hit me.
Ever since the release of A Deep Divide, book one in the series, I’ve received tons of messages from readers who hoped Ruth would have her story. All along, the plan was for the final installment to be hers.
Ruth has been a strong character throughout the series. A mentor. A friend. A headwaitress. But when a crisis hits her life, it affects every area—emotional, physical, and spiritual—and her confidence in everything she thought she knew crumbles.
Life isn’t easy for any of us, and I love a good story that I can grow and learn through. I pray A Mark of Grace is that for you.
When an engagement of convenience becomes anything but convenient . . .
Forced into a betrothal with a widower twice her age, Charleston socialite, Sophia Fairfield is desperate for an escape. But, while her fiancé is away on business, he assigns his handsome stepson, Carver, the task of looking after his bride-to-be. Much to her dismay, Sophia finds herself falling in love with the wrong gentleman—a man society would never allow her to marry, given Sophia was supposed to be his new stepmother. The only way to save Carver from scandal and financial ruin is to run away, leaving him and all else behind to become a Harvey Girl waitress at the Castañeda Hotel in New Mexico.
Carver Ashton has had his life planned out for him since birth, but when he encounters Sophia Fairfield, he glimpses a new life—apart from his overbearing stepfather’s business. But, when the woman he loves disappears before he can express his devotion, Carver abandons all to find her. However, his stepfather has other intentions for Sophia and will stop at nothing until she is his bride . . . even if it is against her will.
I have always felt so bad for young ladies when their father decides who she should marry to better their own financial living. This is what Sophia is dealing with in this book. But Sophia wasn’t about to marry someone twice her age who she didn’t love.
I love this story so much. Sophia is an independent lady, and she is determined she will find a way out of this marriage her father has planned for her. I enjoyed following her journey as she strives to find happiness in the very life her father is trying to destroy. Meeting her intended’s stepson, Carver taught Sophia many things, including how men need to respect ladies. Since she can’t marry Carver, she has no choice but to sneake off on her own.
I love how Grace Hitchcock creates meaningful characters to tell her story. Some we grow to love, others not so much! One thing for sure is, I had to keep reading this story to see how it would end. Would Grace escape her arranged marriage, or would her father win? You will find this, as well as so much more when you read this amazing book by Grace Hitchcock.
I am giving The Finding of Miss Fairfield Five Stars and I wish I could give it many more. Don’t wait to check out this wonderful book. I know you will love it as much as I did.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
About the Author
Grace Hitchcock is the award-winning author of multiple historical novels and novellas. She holds a Masters in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. Grace lives in the New Orleans area with her husband, Dakota, sons, and daughter. Connect with her online at GraceHitchcock.com.
More from Grace
Q: What type of fiction do you write? What is it about this type that appeals to you?
Grace Hitchcock: I write historical romance with a dash of suspense, unless it was for my true crime books which have a bit more than a dash of suspense For my American setting novels, The Gilded Age speaks to me as it was a time of change for women. While still having that epic romance feel with balls and dancing and courtships with a sweet romance, women were breaking ground and making history and pairing that with the fact that it was a time of emerging inventions, it is an all-around exciting era to research, read, and write.
Q: Who were the Harvey Girls?
Grace Hitchcock: Whenever I tell people I am writing about a Victorian Harvey Girl romance, they usually assume the Harvey Girls are associated with an old-time saloon, but nothing could be further from the truth. In the 1890s, there were not many respectable jobs for women, so when Englishman Fred Harvey created his chain of fine dining restaurants along the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe railroads, single women without an education, or in need of earning their own way, were given a chance to earn an honest wage without the speculation that they offered anything else but food as a service. With Mr. Harvey’s strict rules about the waitress’s code of conduct, the women were given their independence while still maintaining their good name and place in society under the protective, fatherly arm of Fred Harvey. These extraordinary, brave women became known as the Harvey Girls, the ladies who tamed the Wild West with fine china, good pie, and exceptional service with complete propriety.
While Harvey Houses were built to serve the needs of the passengers on the rail to encourage tourism in the west, the railroad workers and local townsmen also dined at the restaurant, but usually at the lunch counter. At a time when men filled towns and women were scarce, inevitably, a railroad worker or townsman would express interest in marrying a Harvey Girl. In order to marry, she would need to fulfill her work contract or risk paying a fine of a month of salary. The fine was set in place to ensure that Fred Harvey would have enough workers and that he wouldn’t simply train a girl to have her shipped to a town of bachelors and leave him without a waitress.
As you can probably tell, such a set up sends an author’s head to spinning with all the romance that could come from a woman venturing out on her own in a land filled with cowboys, bandits, ranchers, and farmers. The possibilities for romance are endless! There is so much more I could write about these fascinating ladies and their contributions to society, but I hope you enjoyed this taste of history on the Harvey Girls!
Q: What are your publications? And what are you currently working on?
Grace Hitchcock: After signing with The Steve Laube Agency in 2015, I sold three novellas to Barbour Publishing and then, in March 2019, I released my debut novel,The White City,from Barbour Publishing and signed for a second novel, The Gray Chamber.
My latest release, His Delightful Lady Delia, concludes my 3-book American Royalty series for Bethany House Publishers and hit the shelves in November 2022.
This spring, I signed with Kregel Publications for my first ever REGENCY series!!!! I am thrilled for this dream come true!
While I wait for its release, I’m keeping busy editing and writing book two in my Harvey Girls Aprons & Veils series, The Pursuit of Miss Parish.
The Pursuit of Miss Parish summary:
Love’s gentle promise becomes nothing more than a withered dream.
With dreams of love and a hope for belonging, shy Belle Parish leaves her position as a maid in Charleston to travel to New Mexico with her best friend to become mail-order brides. Colt Lawson’s letters hold great promise and while his devilishly handsome face matches his picture, something does not add up. Discovering his lie only moments before they wed, Belle flees the church and straight into the Castañeda Hotel Harvey House. Giving up the prospect on ever marrying, she dons her nun-like uniform and focuses on her role as a Harvey Girl waitress until a strong, former Texas Ranger rides into her life.
Colt Lawson didn’t want to send that letter to Belle Parish in the first place, but her first response had all but captured his heart. When he is left standing at the altar alone, he is left with two choices—either release his dream of a love marriage, or attempt to win her heart. Wooing her would be a lot easier if that Texas Ranger wasn’t back in town. Who wants a dusty rancher with a past when she could have a shining knight in a Stetson?
While you wait for The Pursuit of Miss Parish to release in Summer 2023, please be sure to check out book one in my brand-new Harvey Girl series set at the historical Hotel Castañeda, The Finding of Miss Fairfield, a tale about Charleston socialite who is on the run from an engagement of convenience.
To celebrate her tour, Grace is giving away the grand prize package of $50 Amazon gift card, a signed copy of the book, a bookmark, and a book magnet!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
Book Title: Traveling TootsiebyKaren and Kathy Honaker Category: Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7), 38 pages Genre: Children’s Picture Book Publisher: Mascot Books Release date: Nov, 2022 Content Rating: G. Suitable for everyone.
**** 2023 Family Choice Award ****
Book Description:
Have you ever wished you could go away on your parent’s business trip or hide in their suitcase to explore a new city all on your own? Well, Katie and Steven sure have! They wonder why they always have to stay home when Mommy or Daddy travel for work. Once their favorite yellow teddy, Tootsie, comes up with the idea to stow himself away for Daddy’s trip to Washington, DC, Katie and Steven realize that they’ll be able to travel along, too—but just not in the way they first imagine!
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I am so happy to review Traveling Tootsie by Karen and Kathy Honaker. This cute little story is about a little girl and boy wanting to go with their mommy or daddy when they travel. It was their favorite yellow teddy bear Tootsie that came up with the neat idea to stow Tootsie away for dad’s trip to Washington DC, and Katie and Steven could come along too. What do you think happened to these to kids and their Tootsie bear?
This was such a fun trip around Washington, DC with Toostie bear and Steven and Katie. They visited so many sites around the city, it was almost too much to take in, but they had so much fun and excitement. Every single page was just fantastic!
Chiara Civati does an amazing job with illustrating this beautiful book, inside and out. The colors are so beautiful that this book is sure to capture the attention of any child. Though I feel this book is for the younger elementary school Children’s age group, I can also see very young children loving to look at the pictures and telling their own story.
I’m giving Traveling Tootsie by Karen and Kathy Honaker Five Stars. I think this books needs to be in elementary schools and day care’s everywhere! Be sure to show this book to your child! I know they will love it.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Kathy and Karen grew up in the Chicago suburbs and moved to Virginia as teenagers. They enjoyed many family vacations, which began their love of travel. They both reside in Virginia with their families and continue to instill a love of travel with their own children. This is their first children’s book written together, about a favorite childhood memory that they always wanted to share with others to enjoy. They hope to inspire a sense of adventure in you!
Book Title: Been There Got Out: Toxic Relationships, High-Conflict Divorce, and How to Stay Sane Under Insane Circumstances by Lisa Johnson and Chris Barry Category: Adult Non-Fiction (18+) Genre: Self-Help Publisher: Wordeee Release date: Mar 7, 2023 Tour dates: Mar 7 to Mar 20, 2023 Content Rating: PG-13 + M: Self-help book for adults going through a divorce.
Book Description:
Been There Got Out offers practical advice for anyone suffering from or struggling to get out of a relationship with a narcissist or other toxic personality types. Packed with practical facts, tips, and advice, this book covers everything from identifying the problem, committing to take action and legal/custody battles to navigating a co-parenting relationship with a hostile spouse.
Lisa Johnson is the co-founder of Been There Got Out, a high-conflict divorce coach and certified domestic violence advocate who has successfully represented herself through scores of court appearances. Her case was published in the Connecticut Law Journal in March 2021 and is now being used as a legal precedent. Her live testimony helped pass Jennifer’s Law in Connecticut, the third state in America to expand its legal definition of domestic violence to include “coercive control.” She and Barry, the male half of Been There Got Out, coach people in high-conflict relationships, divorce, custody battles, and co-parenting hell so they have the chance of the best outcome in family court and beyond. They also offer a weekly Legal Abuse Support Group for those dealing with narcissistic opponents in legal matters.
Chris Barry is a certified high-conflict divorce coach and the co-founder (and male half) of Been There Got Out. He developed the Been There Got Out podcast, and manages BTGO’s website, YouTube channel, Facebook page, and all the background technology they use to run the business. He also specializes in writing high-conflict parenting plans.
Book: The Kingdom of God: Our life with Jesus the King
Author: John Avery
Genre: Christian Devotional, non-fiction
Release date: March 1, 2023
What is the kingdom of God? Many people only vaguely understand (or misunderstand) it. Is it a future heavenly existence where the nicest dreams come true and nightmares are miraculously purged? After all, it is sometimes called the kingdom of heaven. Perhaps we dismiss it as an irrelevant ideal. Pastors typically prioritize topics like salvation, grace, eternal life, faith, and prayer. Yet, the kingdom was central to the messages of John the Baptist, Jesus, Paul, and other New Testament writers. Their words and behavior show that the kingdom theme is the framework uniting those topics and the entire mission of Jesus and His followers.
God’s kingdom centers on the King. It’s a life journey shared with other kingdom subjects.
This collection of 38 short pieces (2-3 pages each) explores vital questions like:
How well do we understand Jesus’ view of the kingdom of God?
What did Jesus mean when He spoke of being in (or outside of) the kingdom?
Does the kingdom make any difference to our lives right now? Should it?
Will the kingdom grow automatically, or do we have a part to play?
These pieces can be read quickly; they’re relaxed too—but think carefully and deeply.
Answers by John Avery, author of The Kingdom of God: our life with Jesus the King.
Answers by John Avery, author of The Kingdom of God: our life with Jesus the King
How long does it take you to write a book?
My first book (The Name Quest: explore the names of God to grow in faith and get to know Him better) took fifteen years (probably >10,000 hours). The devotionals that I write are 5-600 words. Some come very quickly; most take 2-3 hours for an acceptable draft. Compiling them into a book like The Kingdom of God takes additional time and editing.
2. What tactics do you have when writing? Do you just sit down and start writing? Or have an outline plan before?
Almost every piece begins in my own times with Him and reading the Bible. I might check what I sense against commentaries or reference works sometimes, but the main message comes from those times with Him. I make a point of writing the outline as soon as I finish my time with Him. I develop the work at various times after that. Sunday evenings are my reserved writing times but I try to find time on other days too.
3. What special knowledge or research was required to write this book?
I think that years of reading about the Kingdom of God and studying the Bible in general were essential. Over the last three years I focused on reading the Gospels multiple times. I analyzed the events in Jesus’ life and ministry and discovered patterns in what He said and did, where, to whom, what triggered things etc. Some of that comes out in The Kingdom of God, perhaps more in my previous book, The Questions of Jesus: questions asked by Jesus, questions people asked Him. 4. How do you make non-fiction interesting and engaging while still being informative and writing the facts?
Five things:
I try not to write things that have been written many times before or are too obvious; I believe God gives me fresh insights that are, nonetheless sound.
I try to include a brief life situation or personal experience that people can relate to.
I keep “heady” academic things to a bare minimum when they are essential.
I try to write in a casual, conversational way and to not use “Christianese” but everyday language.
I check my ideas against commentaries and other reference works to make sure I am not “off.”
5. Who is your favorite author?
CS Lewis is hard to beat. He has wonderful insight, can express things extremely well, and he writes well in multiple genres.
6. Your favorite pastime or hobby?
I am a hiker.I love to be out in the mountains or desert. Summer hiking, winter cross-country skiing. The further into wilderness, the better.
7. Do you have a favorite vacation spot?
My wife and I love going to Palm Springs area for Christmas break. It’s great for winter hiking and, of course, warmer weather than Oregon.
About the Author
John Avery is the author of The Name Quest:Explore the Names of God to Grow in Faith and Get to Know Him Better (Morgan James Publishing, 2015). The Name Quest won the 2016 Oregon Christian Writers’ Cascade Award for nonfiction. A compilation of short pieces, The Questions of Jesus, was published in 2022.
John is a trained teacher with over thirty years’ experience as a Bible teaching pastor, small group leader, missionary, and disciple maker. He has lived in England, Israel, Africa, and the Caribbean, ministering with Youth With A Mission (YWAM), international student ministry, and local churches. He and his wife, Janet, now make their home in Oregon. John likes to hike, snowshoe, and cross-country ski. John writes short, thought-provoking Bible devotionals at www.BibleMaturity.com many of which will be compiled into books like this one. He maintains a comprehensive resource for all the names of God at www.NamesForGod.net.
More from John
This book is a collection of short devotional pieces. They’re relaxed, but they challenge the reader to think carefully too. What is the kingdom of God? What does it mean for our lives?
Many people only vaguely understand (or misunderstand) the kingdom of God. Is it a future heavenly existence where the nicest dreams come true and nightmares are miraculously purged? After all, it is sometimes called the kingdom of heaven. Perhaps we dismiss it as an irrelevant ideal. Pastors typically prioritize topics like salvation, grace, eternal life, faith, and prayer. Yet, the kingdom was a priority for Jesus.
God’s kingdom centers on the King. It’s a life journey shared with other kingdom subjects.
The pieces explore vital questions like:
How well do we understand Jesus’ view of the kingdom of God?
What did Jesus mean when He spoke of being in (or outside of) the kingdom?
Does the kingdom make any difference to our lives right now? Should it?
Will the kingdom grow automatically, or do we have a part to play?
Most everyone has heard the story of Abraham and Isaac, when God ask Abraham to sacrifice his only son. This is a beautiful picture about trusting God. I encourage every one of you to watch this movie, and think about your faith in the Lord. Could we do what Abraham did?
About HIS ONLY SON
#HisOnlySonMIN
His Only Son recounts one of the most controversial moments in the Old Testament—when Abraham was commanded by God to sacrifice his son Isaac on the mountain of Moriah. While traveling to the place of the sacrifice, alongside Isaac and two servants, Abraham is flooded with vivid memories from the years he and Sarah spent longing for the son they were promised—the son he must now lay upon the altar.
Long Synopsis: His Only Son recounts one of the most controversial moments in the Old Testament—when Abraham was commanded by God to sacrifice his son Isaac on the mountain of Moriah. While traveling to the place of the sacrifice, alongside Isaac and two servants, Abraham is flooded with vivid memories from the years he and Sarah spent longing for the son they were promised—the son he must now lay upon the altar.
Combining world-class musical performances with intimate conversations across the awe-inspiring Italian countryside, THE JOURNEY: A Music Special from Andrea Bocelli is an exploration of moments that define us, songs that inspire us, and relationships that connect us to what matters most in life.
Join in a sacred pilgrimage of hope, beauty, and song with this special theatrical event opening on Palm Sunday and continuing through Holy Week: April 2, 3, 4 & 6. In addition to Bocelli, you’ll hear Michael W. Smith, Tori Kelly, Tauren Wells, TAYA, and many others in amazing musical performances across majestic locations. Get your tickets at TheJourney.movie.
My Thoughts
Just a few words to let you know how much I love this movie trailer. Just watching the beautiful trailer, I want to join those who will be watching this movie on Palm Sunday and throughout the week. Don’t miss this fabulous movie event opening on Palm Sunday and continuing through Holy Week: April 2, 3, 4 & 6. Get your tickets now to make sure you will have a seat!
Short Synopsis: Combining world-class musical performances with intimate conversations across the awe-inspiring Italian countryside, THE JOURNEY: A Music Special from Andrea Bocelli is an exploration of moments that define us, songs that inspire us, and relationships that connect us to what matters most in life.
Join in a sacred pilgrimage of hope, beauty, and song with this special theatrical event opening on Palm Sunday and continuing through Holy Week: April 2, 3, 4 & 6. In addition to Bocelli, you’ll hear Michael W. Smith, Tori Kelly, Tauren Wells, TAYA, and many others in amazing musical performances across majestic locations. Get your tickets at TheJourney.movie.
Lydie Beauchamp recently moved with her aunts—sisters Myrtle and Fern—to the untamed Wyoming Territory. When a teaching position in nearby Willow Falls captures her attention, can she leave her aunts, one of whom just suffered a broken heart, and embark on this new adventure? Will she find the courage to persevere in the midst of challenges, one being a handsome challenge named Solomon Eliason?
Reverend Solomon Eliason has the goal of making a difference. Hired as the pastor of Willow Falls, he must convince the congregation that he is able to undertake the role of a reverend. When he’s nominated to be the adult in charge of the annual prank tradition at the school, he embraces the idea, thinking the new teacher will be an elderly crotchety woman like his former teacher. What he doesn’t realize until it’s too late is that the teacher is far from crotchety and elderly.
When Lydie’s and Solomon’s paths cross in an unexpected way during the prank tradition at the Willow Falls school, can Solomon redeem himself in the eyes of the lovely new teacher?
Take a glimpse into where it all began with Lydie and Solomon’s story in this tender tale that reminds us that God can and does use willing hearts for His purposes.
I love Penny Zeller’a book, Love’s New Beginnings. Set in the 1860s, I knew this would be a fabulous historical fiction to read when I read the description. This book is the prequel to the Wyoming Sunrise series by Penny. Lydie and her two aunts, Myrtle and Fern, to the untamed Wyoming Territory. I love these two sisters. They sure bring a delight to the story. When Willow Falls needed a teacher, Lydia left jer aunts to teach at the school. It was there that she met Solomon.
Lydia and Solomon’s story was so much fun to read. I love how Zeller weaves the Christian life into her characters and enjoyed the fact that these two wanted to make sure they were following the Lord’s leading. The realistic and faithful characters were loveable and easy to connect with. The extensive research by Ms. Zeller is so apparent and makes the story so much more alive. I love anything written by Penny Zeller, and this book was beautifully written, just as her other books. Her writing is phenomenal, and with every book, it gets better.
If you enjoy a good clean historical fiction, with faith weaved throughout the story, this is an excellent one for you to read. I know you will love it as much as I do. I’m giving this one Five Stars!!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
About the Author
Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics.
Today Penny is the author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a group fitness instructor. Her desire is to assist and nurture women into a closer relationship with Christ.
When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters and camping, hiking, canoeing, bicycling/cycling, reading, running, gardening, and playing volleyball.
She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website, blog, and on Facebook.
More from Penny
Stagecoach etiquette, a casket for sale in the mercantile, and mock turtle soup were just a few of the items included in Love’s New Beginnings. Research is always fun for historical novels, and I even discovered that some people ate skunks back in the “olden days.” Not a regular delicatessen, but they did eat them on occasion. After reading about the ingredients for mock turtle soup and discovering about skunks for dinner (aka supper), I’m even more grateful for enchiladas and regular plain ol’ hamburgers. Historical romance novels are a delight to read, but is Love’s New Beginnings the book for you?
If you love…
To read love stories
Stories set in the late 1800s
Settings in the Wild West in small western towns
Sweet romance and tender love stories
Plentiful humor
Character-driven plots
Faith element organically interwoven into the story
Scenes that tug at the heartstrings
Hilarious antidotes tucked within the pages of a novel
To curl up and escape into the lives of book characters
Realistic plot lines
Close-knit families
Clean and wholesome reads
Memorable characters who stay with you long after the last page
Then Love’s New Beginnings is indeed the book for you!
Book Title: FlightLog: The Novel Adventures of a Stewardess Wannabe Who Becomes a Flight Attendant by Susan Humphrey Category: Adult Fiction (18+), 338 pages Genre: Women’s Fiction, Chick Lit, Memoir(ish), Coming-of-age Publisher: Majuscule Press Release date: August, 2022 Content Rating: PG. A few romantic encounters but light on the details. Reference to tobacco use.
Book Description:
“It was 1978. People didn’t have home computers, video players, or answering machines. We rented our telephones from local phone companies and hand-wrote letters. The terms ‘politically correct’ and ‘African-American’ had not been coined. ‘Eating disorders’ and ‘alternate lifestyles’ were not yet common household phrases. Only strippers wore thongs, which made perfect sense to me, as they only caused one to gyrate their hynie in a desperate attempt to dislodge the bothersome wedgie.”
So writes Sherri Van Ness, an unassuming girl from the burbs of Kansas who’s about to embark on the adventure of her life when she signs up to become a stewardess. But it’s much more turbulent than this doughy-eyed 19-year-old ever imagined as she tries to navigate past grouchy passengers, fly-by-night relationships and the unforgiving, relentless, humiliating, monthly weigh-ins. Some dreams come true. Others require a vomit bag.
That’s not to say Sherri doesn’t enjoy herself. Au contraire! There are friends to be made and men to be made and the maid who made up her room in New York is so nice!
Yes, the work is difficult at times and the money isn’t always good, but there are perks: free flights and an endless supply of tiny vodka bottles and salted peanuts (peanut allergies hadn’t been invented yet.)
Like Dorothy Gale sans Toto, Sherri leaves Kansas and finds herself amidst a cast of characters as strange to her as the Scarecrow and the Munchkins were to Dorothy. Her whirlwind journey takes her from innocent, insecure stewardess to mature and confident flight attendant. Or does she?
Book your flight now with this very enjoyable read, put your seat back in the upright position, and enjoy the ride!
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I love this book cover, it just looks like a lot of fun and I am one that likes to choose books by their cover. I wasn’t disappointed at all. FlightLog: The Novel Adventures of a Stewardess Wannabe Who Becomes a Flight Attendant by Susan Humphrey will take you on a ride you won’t forget. The story takes place in the 1970’s, where life was a lot different. I found it exciting to learn what a flight attendant is all about, and it was different than what I thought. Of course the ’70 was so different in everything. But those were very nice years. A good decade to remember. I am very glad to read this book set in that time frame, because much was going on in my life during the ’70’s. A lot of nice memories. Author Susan Humphrey does a fabulous job writing this book. There is a lot of details about flight attendants and what is expected in their job. It made this story seem like a journey we were on with the author. Looking back, we could see how much things have changed, life has changed the last 40 to 50 years. For me, some things changed for the better, but even more has changed for the worst.
All in all, this is a fun book filled with growing pains, lifestyle changes and a lot of laughter. I have many laugh out loud moments while reading Flight Log. I enjoyed this very much. If you are looking for a good, clean, light story to fill your hours, this would be a wonderful choice for you. I think you will enjoy it as much as I do.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Susan Jo Humphrey, the daughter of a diplomat, was born in Izmir, Turkey where she lived for three years. She also lived in Korea and Thailand, before returning home to the US with her family as a teenager. She has traveled all over the United States, and has called several parts of this country ‘home.’ Her many airplane rides as a child convinced her she must one day become a stewardess. Suz was a flight attendant for thirteen of her twenty-five years with UAL. She began penning FlightLog with the help of the Naperville Writer’s Group, outside of Chicago. There, she published in their annual pamphlet, had a humor piece printed in an online magazine, and contributed many articles to local newspapers. At the time of publication, she is busy working on FlightLog II.
Away from the keyboard, Suz loves yoga, reading, cooking, listening to music and playing her guitar. She still enjoys mapping out travel to faraway places she’s never seen, as well as planning return trips to her favorite spots.
She currently lives in Southern California and has two grown children. Today, she’s in healthcare, where she’s worked since 2014. Suz was the ‘baby’ of her flight attendant classes – and the ‘senior’ student in her nursing classes. She’s eager to write that story as well: a novice baby-boomer RN begins her dream career as a travel nurse – just as a pandemic breaks out!
Book Title: Chris Crossed Murder(A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery #4) by Lauren Carr Category: Adult Fiction (18 +) Genre: Mystery Publisher: Acorn Book Services Release date: Feb 22, 2023 Content Rating: PG-13 (Lauren Carr’s books are murder mysteries, so there are murders involved. Occasionally, a murder will happen on stage.
“Carr is a master at creating unique, complex plots and colorful characters, both evident in her latest cold case mystery featuring Chris Matheson and the geezer squad. The plot is twisted, the mystery unique and the ending a surprise. A must-read!” – Review of CHRIS CROSSED MURDER (A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery, Book Four) byMarilyn R. Wilson, Author, Speaker, Book Reviewer
“Lauren Carr is among my favorite mystery writers. She knows how to write a fun tale while keeping readers engaged. …I would give Chris Crossed Murder one hundred stars if I could. I believe readers who enjoy reading well-written and clean cozy mysteries will most definitely want to read it. I have no doubt they will enjoy it as much as I did. The fifth installment from A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery series is on my radar for when it releases.”– Review of CHRIS CROSSED MURDER (A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery, Book Four) by Amy Campbell, Locks Hooks and Books
Book Description:
It proves to be a Christmas to remember when the Matheson family receives the horrendous news that Chris Matheson’s body has been found in the woods near an international airport.Everyone is stunned—especially Chris Matheson.
The mystery deepens when they discover the victim has Chris’s federal agent badge and appears to have been investigating one of his old cases.
The Geezer Squad’s latest case is not only a whodunit but who-got-dun. Is this a case of mistaken identity? Was Chris the intended victim? If not, then they must identify the murder victim to find his killer.
With Christmas days away, join the Chris Matheson and the Geezer Squad as they race to piece together the clues to their most puzzling case yet.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Chris Crossed Murder is the 4th book in the Lauren Carr series A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery. I think this is the best one so far. The Geezer Squad is back at work on their new case. This Time, it’s one of their own. Chris Matheson’s body was found in the woods near the international airport. The problem is, Chris Matheson is just as surprised and anyone else that his body had been found. Is someone trying to set Chris up? Who wants to see Chris dead?
Lauren Carr had knocked it out of the ballpark this time. I love when Geezer Squad put their heads together and start their new case. I love this exceptional group, and their ability to figure out the crimes and bring justice to those who deserve. This case focuses on finding the person who is tagged as Chris? I thoroughly enjoyed this journey with the Geezer’s. Carr writes the suspense so intense, it’s definitely hard to put the book down. Carr uses her expertise skills in lstory to make it at the top of my favorite mystery series. I can’t wait for the next book in this series. I’m giving this book Five Stars, and it deserves so many more!! If you love a good clean mystery, I highly recommend this book to you! Special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Book Title: The Adventures of Lefty & Righty: The Windy City by Lori Orlinsky Category: Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7), 38 pages Genre: Children’s Picture Book Publisher: Mascot Books Release date: Mar 7, 2023 Format available for review: print-hardback (USA), pdf Tour dates: Mar 7 to Mar 27, 2023 Content Rating: G for everyone.Book Description:
Do you ever wonder what happens to socks that get lost in the dryer? Join Lefty and Righty for the adventure of a lifetime as they sneak out of the laundry room with a destination in mind: a White Sox game! But with so much to do in The Windy City, will they make it to the game in time? Through their fun-filled day, they’ll discover the sights, sounds—and even the tastes—of Chicago, all while encountering a few surprises along the way!
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
The Adventures of Lefty & Righty: The Windy City by Lori Orlinsky is such a cute book to read to your kids. It’s about two socks that wa t to go to Chicago to a White Socks game. It wasn’t just a trip to Chicago, it was the adventure going through the windy city to get there. I think taking the journey with Lefty and Righty was a lot of fun and excitement. The story was beautifully written in rhymes, which the children will enjoy.
Kenn Vidro does an amazing job with the illustrations. I love the bright vivid colors that will draw the book to children. The colors are beautiful, and match the beautiful words within the story. This is a great book for your library, or your school library and classrooms.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Award-winning children’s book author Lori Orlinsky lives in. . . you guessed it . . . Chicago! Lori is the mother of three little ladies, who are small but mighty. At 5’1”, she wishes her children’s picture book, Being Small (Isn’t So Bad After All), was around when she was growing up. Lori also wrote The Tooth Fairy’s Tummy Ache and Balloons for Tiger. Her latest book, The Adventures of Lefty and Righty: The Windy City, was inspired by her daily struggle to find matching socks when they come out of the dryer.
Police Chief Autumn Long is fighting to keep her job in the quiet Alaska town of Shadow Gap when an unexpected string of criminal activity leaves her with a wounded officer, unexplained murders, and even an attack on her own father. Despite her mistrust of outsiders, she turns to Grier Brenner, a newcomer who seems to have the skills and training Autumn needs to face this threat to her community.
Grier is in Alaska for the same reason so many others are–to disappear–when Chief Long enlists his help. He emerges from the shadows and proves his mettle, but his presence in her life could be a deadly trap for them both. If his secret is exposed, all will be lost. And he’s not sure even Autumn could save him.
As the stakes rise and the dangers increase, Autumn and Grier must rely on each other to extinguish the deadly threats.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Cold Light of Day is another WOW book from author Elizabeth Goddard. Grier Brenner was in Alaska to disappear, but when Police Chief Autumn Long needed his help with all of the situations happening in Alaska in her jurisdiction, Grier had to help her. Even thought Long didn’t want to trust Grier because he was a Newcomer in town, he knew his stuff around police work, it seemed, and Autumn needed him. But when life seems to turn upside down, their quiet little town of Shadow Gap isn’t so quiet anymore.
With heart gripping characters that have you on the edge of your seat, Goddard tells this story with expertise and intrigue, pulling readers into the story with the feel of being there through the entire book. I enjoyed getting to know each of the characters, with the good in them as well as their faults. I love the sparks flying between Chief Autumn and Grier, but a romance between the two seemed almost impossible. Is there too much baggage for the two to ever get together?
Cold Light of Day is book one in Elizabeth’s new series, Missing in Alaska, and let me tell you, this is an awesome start of this gripping thriller series. If you love books with their thrills and chills, this is the book for you. If you haven’t read an Elizabeth Goddard book, you are missing an amazing treat. I really want to encourage you to check out Cold Light of Day. A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
“An exhilarating, page-turning race to the finish!”
Carrie Stuart Parks, bestselling author of Relative Silence
“Gripping and hard-hitting.”
James R. Hannibal, award-winning author of Elysium Tide
“Elizabeth Goddard has created a novel that immerses the reader in small-town Alaska. From the first page, it’s a race to stay alive and solve a number of ever-spiraling mysteries. I highly recommend this novel.”
“A simmering romantic suspense with an explosive ending. Once more Goddard proves she is a master storyteller and deserving of her place as one of the best Christian romantic suspense authors of our time.”
Elizabeth Goddard is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 50 novels, including Cold Light of Day and the Rocky Mountain Courage and Uncommon Justice series. Her books have sold nearly 1.5 million copies. She is a Carol Award and Reader’s Choice Award winner and a Daphne du Maurier Award finalist. When she’s not writing, she loves spending time with her family, traveling to find inspiration for her next book, and serving with her husband in ministry. For more information about her books, visit her website at www.ElizabethGoddard.com.
Book Title: The Last Thing She Said (A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery #3) by Lauren Carr Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 386 pages Genre: Mystery Publisher: Acorn Book Services Release date: July 22, 2019 Format available for review: ebook (MOBI, EPUB, PDF), audiobook (Audible download) Will send print books out: USA Tour dates: Feb 22 to Mar 31, 2023 Content Rating: PG-13 (Lauren Carr’s books are murder mysteries, so there are murders involved. Occasionally, a murder will happen on stage.
MY RATING: FIVE STARS
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Lauren Carr has done he Last Thing She Said again in this third book in this series, The Last Thing She Said. In this Cold Case, the Geezer Squad’s case is to find out what happened to Mercedes. Secrets will come to life as the Geezer’s dig more and more into this case. I love this group and the way they handle their cases. Carr does a phenomenal job writing this wonderful book. I have fell in love with many of these characters, but Sterling is at the top. I love this special furry friend! The characters are many, but they are so easy to keep up with because Ms. Carr includes an extensive list of all characters and a little bit about them.
I sure did enjoy this story, and I have already started reading the next one in the series and I love, love that one too! If you enjoy a good cozy mystery, this us your book. You will not be sorry you choose this book. I’m giving The Last Thing She Said Five Stars, and it deserves so much more!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Too many twists and turns to easily share about this book. Nevertheless, Carr has pulled off another “hit” that kept me reading in one setting until the clues were so well together that the villain fell into our laps…or Chris’s, LOL Carr has put a lot into the book beyond the mysteries this time…Characters enjoyed chocotinis, visited book stores…and even blundered into getting engaged (the ring had been purchased 4 months ago)… But, for me, a special thank you for the political spoof at a time when politics at the national level is devastating, gave me a laugh and lightened the load of it all!” – Review by Glenda Bixler, Book Reader’s Heaven
Book Description: “I’m working on the greatest mystery ever,” was the last thing noted mystery novelist Mercedes Livingston said to seven-year-old Chris Matheson before walking out of Hill House Hotel never to be seen again.
For decades, the writer’s fate remained a puzzling mystery until an autographed novel and a letter put a grown-up Chris Matheson on the trail of a cunning killer. With the help of a team of fellow retired law enforcement officers, each a specialist in their own field of investigation, Chris puts a flame to this cold case to uncover what had really happened that night Mercedes Livingston walked out of Hill House Hotel. Watch out! The clues are getting hot!
Selling over half a million books worldwide, Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, Thorny Rose, Chris Matheson Cold Case Mysteries, and Nikki Bryant Cozy Mysteries—thirty titles across five fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!
Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, crime fiction, police procedurals, romance, and humor.
The owner of Acorn Book Services and iRead Book Tours, Lauren is also a publishing manager, consultant, and virtual book tour coordinator for independent authors.
Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions.
She lives with her husband, and two spoiled rotten German shepherds on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.
Fool Her Once (A Novel) by Joanna Elm Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 416 pages Genre: Thriller Publisher: CamCat Books Release date: Feb, 2023 Format available for review: print-softback (USA), ebook (EPUB, PDF, Book Funnel download), and audiobook (Book Funnel download) Will send print books out: USA Tour dates: Feb 20 to March 20, 2023
Content Rating: PG-13 + M. There’s adultery, language, some sexual content, and violent crime, but no explicit descriptions of the crimes.
My Rating Five ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book Description: Some killers are born. Others are made.
As a rookie tabloid reporter, Jenna Sinclair made a tragic mistake when she outed Denny Dennison, the illegitimate son of an executed serial killer. So she hid behind her marriage and motherhood. Now, decades later, betrayed by her husband and resented by her teenage daughter, Jenna decides to resurrect her career—and returns to the city she loves.
When her former lover is brutally assaulted outside Jenna’s NYC apartment building, Jenna suspects that Denny has inherited his father’s psychopath gene and is out for revenge. She knows she must track him down before he can harm his next target, her daughter.
Meanwhile, her estranged husband, Zack, fears that her investigative reporting skills will unearth his own devastating secret he’d kept buried in the past.
From New York City to the remote North Fork of Long Island and the murky waters surrounding it, Jenna rushes to uncover the terrible truth about a psychopath and realizes her own investigation may save or destroy her family.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Joanna Elm is an author, journalist, blogger, and attorney. Before the publication of her first two suspense novels (Scandal, Tor/Forge 1996); (Delusion, Tor/Forge/1997), she was an investigative journalist on the London Evening News on Fleet Street in the U.K. She also wrote for British magazines like Woman’s Own.
Then, she moved to New York where she worked as a writer/producer for television news and tabloid TV programs like “A Current Affair.” She was also the researcher/writer for WNEW-TV’s Emmy-award-winning documentary “Irish Eyes.” In 1980, she joined the Star as a reporter, eventually becoming the magazine’s news editor and managing editor before moving to Philadelphia as editor of the news/features section of TV Guide.
After completing her first two novels while living in South Florida, (Nelson DeMille described Scandal as “fresh, original and unpredictable”) Joanna returned to New York, enrolled in law school, graduated summa cum laude, passed the NY Bar exam, and worked as a principal law clerk for an appellate division justice in the prestigious First Department. She has been married to her husband Joe for 35 years and has one son.
Clue meets Indiana Jones with a fiction-loving twist only Grace Percy can provide.
Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley have already experienced their fair-share of suspense, but when a honeymoon trip takes a detour to the mystical land of Egypt, not even Grace with her fiction-loving mind is prepared for the dangers in store. From an assortment of untrustworthy adventure-seekers to a newly discovered tomb with a murderous secret, Frederick and Grace must lean on each other to navigate their dangerous surroundings. As the suspects mount in an antiquities’ heist of ancient proportions, will Frederick and Grace’s attempts to solve the mystery lead to another death among the sands?
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
The Cairo Curse by Peppe by Pepper Basham is a fun and interesting Christian historical fiction. The story follows newlyweds Gracie and Lord Astley, and their honeymooning in Egypt. This was turning out to be quite the adventure, as well as a few thrills going on. I think author Pepper Basham does a fantastic job writing this book, and as well as her attention to detail. I know this book was a lot of fun to research! I so much enjoyed the brilliant way Ms. Basham takes her readers on this fabulous adventurous journey through the eyes of Grace.
Ms. Basham created her characters to perfectly tell this story so well. I was glued to my see just about the whole time I was reading this book. I was afraid I would miss something, though I knew I could go back and re-read parts of the story, as I did. I love Gracie. I could connect with her and her love for fiction. She was such a loving abd caring person, and her love and devotion to her husband was do realistic, I feel like I have a new friend in Gracie. If you enjoy a wonderful, clean historical book with sprinkles of mystery and suspense flowing throughout, you will love Pepper Basham’s The Cairo Curse. This is a book you definitely do not want to miss! I am giving The Cairo Curse Five Stars and it is well deserving for more.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Pepper Basham is an award-winning author who writes romance peppered with grace and humor with southern Appalachian flair. Both her historical and contemporary novels have garnered recognition in the Grace Awards, Inspys, and ACFW Carol Awards. Her historical romance, The Thorn Healer, was a finalist in the 2018 RT Awards. Her historical romance novels, My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge and The Red Ribbon, and her contemporary novels, the Mitchell’s Crossroads and Pleasant Gap series, showcase her Appalachian heritage, as well as her love for humor and family. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC where she is the mom of five great kids, a speech-language pathologist to about fifty more, and a lover of chocolate, jazz, hats, and Jesus.
Gunfire erupted from outside, sending Frederick Percy, Earl of Astley, leaping from his chair. The seat crashed against the floor behind him in time with another shot. What on earth! He grabbed the first weapon-like item he could find—his grandfather’s cane—and dashed toward the sound, nearly colliding with his butler moving in the same direction.
“Did you hear the gunfire, Brandon?”
The older gentleman’s brows rose as high as they could go without becoming part of his snowy hairline. “Indeed, my lord. From the south garden, if I guess correctly, sir.”
“My thoughts exactly.” Frederick tapped the cane against the floor and took a step in the direction of the garden door. Then stopped, a sudden sense of dread forming a lump in his stomach. His butler’s response was much too cavalier for an emergency. “Have you seen Lady Astley of late, Brandon?”
“Not since after breakfast, sir.”
“Well, then.” Frederick returned to his office for his own pistol and prayed whatever inspired a gunshot near his home would prove more benign than dangerous. After surviving several near-death experiences over the past Christmas season, Frederick was quite finished with drama for a while. Though drama seemed to follow his new bride in spades.
He met the butler back in the hallway.
“Might I offer an insight, sir?”
Frederick pivoted in his approach to the door and turned back to Brandon. “Insight?”
“Yes, sir.” The man released a deep sigh which pulled his pristine posture into a slight slump. He then sent Frederick a look which somehow inspired a grimace before Frederick even heard the man’s words. “Her ladyship was speaking with Mr. Blake after breakfast, sir.”
“Mr. Blake?” Frederick rolled his gaze heavenward, the tension in his jaw uncoiling into a slight annoyance that manifested in an ache over his right eyebrow. He loved his cousin. There was no man Frederick trusted more. But for some reason, the idea of Blake and Grace together followed by the sound of gunfire did not bode well.
For anyone.
“About pistols, my lord.”
And the answers emerged, along with an increased throbbing in Frederick’s head. “Thank you, Brandon.”
Setting a slower pace, he moved toward the south side of his manor house, another shot reverberating nearer. Within a month since Christmas, his American wife had learned how to drive the car and throw knives, two skills she appeared to excel in more than knowing the fashion of the season or how to address the complicated hierarchy of the aristocracy. His lips almost split into a grin as he recalled her stumbling over addressing the Duke of Westonbridge two weeks ago by calling him “Your Honorable Lord” and then in quick correction, “Your Grace, or at least I hope you are since I fumbled your title so atrociously.”
Of course the duke had fallen under Grace’s spell within five minutes, as everyone else who met her seemed to do since she’d moved to his crumbling Derbyshire estate two months earlier. Well, everyone except the villainess who’d tried to kill them just before Christmas. But that was hopefully a distant story, and their next chapter would be a lovely, peaceful belated honeymoon—he increased his steps at the idea—with a little surprise tagged on for his lovely Lady Astley.
Frederick nodded a good afternoon to the police officer inconspicuously posted near the house so that Frederick’s mother could work out her sentence of house arrest in connection with his father and brother’s deaths. He released a sigh. No, she was no murderess, unless glares and harsh words counted, but she’d harbored information that could have protected others. The law had been gracious with her due to her age and status, merely revoking her freedoms from leaving Havensbrook, so his mother’s life stayed very much as it had since Frederick’s father’s death; however, the added blemish of “criminal” to her reputation ensured she spent her days away from the public eye.
And if the police officer appeared in no great distress over the gunfire, Frederick knew all too well what must be happening.
Just around the edge of the house, a large garden opened to the south, its walls still well intact, though ivy-grown and tangled. Another shot reverberated through the damp air, followed quickly by laughter and his wife’s exuberant exclamation of “I hit it.”
Frederick’s lips pinched into a frown. Why he ever expected his cousin Blake to mind Frederick’s subtle requests was beyond him! The garden gate stood open, welcoming him forward into an even more tangled array of vines and twined greenery, the winter roses, a remnant of the garden’s healthier days, sleeping until spring.
He hadn’t had the means to make things right with Havensbrook before but, with Grace’s wealth and her generous heart, he could now. Another way to make amends for the past, he hoped, though
God had already bestowed on him much more than he deserved.
His cousin stood to the right, hands on the hips of his gray suit jacket, but Frederick’s gaze followed Blake’s focus to the woman in the center of the garden. Her bright auburn hair was twisted up beneath a deep purple hat that matched her coat, both in contrast to her pale skin. Her laughter echoed toward him, so filled with joy and hope. Two things he’d thought lost forever before he’d met her.
Yes, God had given him much more than he deserved, and sometimes, he wondered if God had given him more than he could manage.
splashesofjoy 