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.
How can she protect herself from an enemy she can’t see?
Book Details:
Genre: Suspense Published by: Thomas Nelson Publication Date: October 6th 2020 Number of Pages: 352 ISBN: 0785228640 (ISBN13: 9780785228646) Purchase Links:Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook.com® | Goodreads
Everywhere to Hide is one fantastic suspense story dealing with current events that I knew little or nothing about. I was so intrigued throughout this entire story that sometimes all I could say was Wow! I learned a lot reading this book!
Whitney Garrison in an interesting character that I really enjoyed. She just wanted everyone to let her live her life, and leave her alone. But that wasn’t to be. Her ex-boyfriend made sure of that. There is so much going on in this story, so much tension flying around throughout most of it, it was impossible for me to put this book down. I just had to get to the end to find out who the bad guys were.
Among the interesting things in this story was a condition that Whitney has, keeping her from seeing the faces of humans. This was just so crazy, I had to look it up so I could better understand what Whitney faces every day. Other characters supporting Whitney were her landlord, whom I loved. Detective Leo Baroni was amazing, I love the way he was there for Whitney, especially in her most vulnerable times, the workers at the coffee shop. And there were some I wanted to just smack, especially the ex-boyfriend and total jerk. I never liked the FBI detective from the start. And I could go on about the amazing characters Ms. Mitchell creates to make her story come to life. But you need to read the book for yourself to find out. I only touched on a few things happening here. If you enjoy a really good clean suspense, Everywhere to Hide is a must! I encourage you to give this book a try. And this one is a Five plus Stars for me!
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.
Read an excerpt:
The door was difficult to open. The tropical storm had transformed the alley into a wind tunnel, funneling the muggy air from one side of the block to the other. I raised a hand to pull my hair off my face and turned into the wind to keep it there, quickly turning my ponytail into a bun. As I stepped away from the door, I was surprised to see someone sprawled on the pavement in front of me.
He was lying face up. A red puddle had formed a halo around his head.
He wasn’t— was he— he wasn’t— was he dead?
As I stood there trying to process what I was seeing, the wind sent a recycling crate skidding across the cracked pavement.
I jumped.
I glanced up the alley, then down. Nothing was there. Nothing but the wind. And a dead man staring up at the cloud- streaked sky.
Behind me, I heard something scrabble across the low, flat roof.
I pivoted and glanced up. Saw a form silhouetted against the sky. Shock gave way to panic as I realized he had a gun in his hand. As I realized that he had also seen me.
I should have lunged toward the door.
But a familiar numbness was spreading over me. The prickle on my scalp, the sudden dryness in my mouth. I was living my nightmares all over again.
As I had done too often in the past, I reverted to form. I froze.
Please. Please. Please.
My thoughts latched onto that one word and refused to let it go.
If I could just punch my code into the keypad, I could slip back inside and pull the door shut behind me.
But I couldn’t do anything at all.
My fingers wouldn’t work.
Please. Please. Please.
I willed them to function, but they had long ago learned that in a dangerous situation, the best thing to do was nothing. Any movement, any action on my part had always made things worse.
And so I just stood there as my thoughts stuttered.
Fragmented.
***
Excerpt from Everywhere to Hide by Siri Mitchell. Copyright 2020 by Siri Mitchell. Reproduced with permission from Thomas Nelson. All rights reserved.
Author Bio:
Siri Mitchell is the author of 16 novels. She has also written 2 novels under the pseudonym of Iris Anthony. She graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and has worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo.
This is a rafflecopter giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for Siri Mitchell. There will be 3 winners. Each winner will receive one (1) physical copy of Everywhere To Hide by Siri Mitchell (U.S. addresses only). The giveaway begins on October 1, 2020 and runs through November 2, 2020. Void where prohibited.
A girl with the best of intentions.
A heart set on Hollywood.
An empty pocketbook.
That’s all it takes for Ellis Eton to find herself working as a telephone operator for a look-alike friend. For Ellis, this job will provide not only acting practice but the funds to get her a start in the movies. She’s tired of always being a disappointment to her traditional Boston family, and though she can’t deny the way he makes her head spin, she knows she’s not good enough for Griffin Phillips, either. It’s simple: avoid Griff’s attentions, work, and get paid. But in typical Ellis fashion, her simple plan spirals out of control when she overhears a menacing phone call…with her very own Griff as the target.
With an endearing heroine as her lead, Siri Mitchell takes readers on a madcap tale of love and discovering one’s true desires!
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.
Endorsements
Quirky and fun, Love Comes Calling is fresh fiction that sparkles and shines with humor and heart, a delightfully dizzy romance brimming with smiles and chuckles from beginning to end.
Julie Lessman,
award-winning author of The Daughters of Boston and
Winds of Change series
Love Comes Calling is fast-paced, funny, and sweet–with enough action and wisdom to be irresistible. I loved it.
Mary Connealy,
bestselling author of Fired Up and The Kincaid Brides series
Sweet, fun, and thought-provoking, Love Comes Calling brings the Roaring Twenties to life. Step onto Siri Mitchell’s stage and watch the story of an impetuous, aspiring actress unfold. You’ll be swept away by the skillful blend of description, humor, and emotion.
Lorna Seilstad,
author of When Love Calls
THE AUTHOR
Siri Mitchell
Siri Mitchell has written nearly a dozen novels, three of which were named Christy Award finalists. A graduate of the University of Washington with a business degree, she has worked in many levels of government and lived on three continents. She and her family…
In Love Comes Calling, Mitchell pens a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud historical romance with love, misunderstandings, and an unforgettable cast of witty characters.
Hannah Sunderland felt content in her embrace of the Quaker faith . . . until her twin brother joined the Colonial cause and ended up in jail. She longs to bring some measure of comfort to him in the squalid prison, but her faith forbids it. The Friends believe that they are not to take sides, not to take up arms. She is not allowed to visit him, even if she were able to secure a pass.
Jeremiah Jones, a Colonial spy, needs access to the jail to help rescue men important to the cause. Upon meeting Hannah, a plan begins to develop. Who would suspect a pious Quaker visiting a loved one?
But Jeremiah is unprepared for Hannah, for her determination to do right, to not lie. How can one be a spy and not lie? Hannah, in turn, is surprised by Jeremiah…for the way he forces her to confront her own beliefs, for the sensitivity and concern that he shows her despite the wounds he still carries.
In a time of war, can two unlikely heroes find the courage to act?
THE AUTHOR
Siri Mitchell
Siri Mitchell has written nearly a dozen novels, three of which were named Christy Award finalists. A graduate of the University of Washington with a business degree, she has worked in many levels of government and lived on three continents. She and her family…
Hannah’s brother is in jail and she can’t help him, according to their Quaker faith, but what does she do. He’s her brother after all. Then comes Jeremiah, a Colonists spy. When he meets Hannah her realizes she can be a lot if help to him in releasing the guys from jail but she has always been taught to do right, not lie, so how can she do this?
This is a very interesting book. It has characters from the Quaker faith which o know nothing about. And I don’t think I want to know, I did find it interesting when Hannah’s faith was questioned, as well as her response. Author Siri Mitchell does an awesome job with creating characters that are believable and unique. I really liked Jeremiah and Hannah. They worked well together and they seemed to fit together, they were good for each other. There was a lot of tension at times, especially fr ok m the Quakers. And many of the character showed struggling as they we through difficult times. This is a Revolutionary War story, and I know many love reading stories about the war. If this is something you enjoy, I encourage you to pic up a copy of 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.
Other Reviews
This story of a strong-minded young Quaker woman and a quiet, reserved tavern owner will keep you turning the pages with anticipation. Alternating between these two narrators – Hannah Sunderland and Jeremiah Jones – this richly detailed, exciting story moves quickly through the action, and each chapter leaves you wanting to read another.
Set in British-occupied Philadelphia in 1778, this story reveals some unlikely heroes willing to risk their lives to do what is right for the patriots of the Revolutionary War. When Hannah’s twin brother ends up in jail, charged as a rebel against Britain, she is torn between following her religion, which strictly forbids getting involved in anything political, and giving in to her heart’s pull to care for her beloved brother. Jeremiah, a reluctant spy for the Colonists, finds that he needs Hannah’s help in a plot to rescue men from the same jail, so they agree to form an unlikely alliance.
As they begin to secretly work together, both struggle with internal conflicts of their own. Hannah’s involvement in this plan goes against her religious beliefs; while Jeremiah’s past wounds continue to trouble his mind and heart. Being strong-willed and determined, each begins to challenge the other to look at the world in new ways and evaluate what really matters to them. A well-written, enthralling historical novel, The Messenger will not disappoint.
Aimee Rasmussen
Portland Book Review, Aug 6, 2012
“Pros: Isn’t scared to give gritty details about this period of history; heavily researched; gentle and not overbearing romance and spiritual details; realistic protagonists
“Cons: Ending is rather abrupt and left me wanting more
“Our Review: 4.5 / 5 – Excellent
“Quaker Hannah Sunderland has strictly followed her faith’s decision to avoid taking sides or arms in the Revolutionary War, even when it means that her family are forced from their home when it is commandeered by the army. But when news reaches her that her twin brother, who joined to Colonial cause, is in prison, she cannot ignore his needs. Her desire to help her brother brings her into contact with Colonial spy, Jeremiah Jones, a war veteran who lost his arm in the Seven Years War. They couldn’t be more dissimilar in their beliefs and lifestyles, but the common ground of needing access to the local prison–for personal and political reasons–binds them together. Hannah soon finds herself acting as a spy and attempting to stage an escape from the prison, but must keep her actions secret so that she doesn’t upset her fellow Quakers. But no one can ignore the amount of time she is spending with Jeremiah, and even Hannah cannot claim that theirs is only a business arrangement. As Hannah becomes more involved in the Colonial cause and is made aware of the dire conditions that the soldiers are living in, she cannot help but think that those of her faith have made a mistake in choosing to ignore the needs of these men. Can she reconcile her Quaker faith with her desire to help her brother and his fellow soldiers?
“Recently I heard that popular Amish fiction author Suzanne Woods Fisher would be writing a historical series about the Quakers of Nantucket. In light of this discovery, and the recent release a romantic novella collection from Barbour, entitled Quakers of New Garden, I couldn’t help but wonder whether the Quakers would soon to be joining the quaint tales of Amish, Mennonites and Shakers (although the latter aren’t particularly quaint, in my opinion) that have become so popular in the last few years. Siri Mitchell’s novel does not join the ranks of these stories. The best way to describe The Messenger is to say that it’s a gritty historical novel; it does not shy away from the uncomfortable details of life in Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War, and doesn’t attempt to gloss over any unsavoury details that wouldn’t usually appear in a Christian historical romance. There’s nothing inappropriate or particularly graphic, but if you prefer your historical novels to present the brighter side of life, then perhaps a novel about a Quaker woman breaking soldiers out of the squalor and filth of a war prison isn’t the novel for you.
“The history in this book felt incredibly real, and I wasn’t surprised to read in the author’s note at the end of the novel that many of the events in The Messenger were based on true stories. I’ve always preferred my historical novels to be enriched by their historical detail, rather than peppered with a few brief references to historical-sounding items or clothing, but I’m also the first to admit that it’s hard to get the right blend of story-telling and history into a novel. On the one hand, if you focus too much on the plot, you risk ending up with a story which could honestly be set in any time period if it weren’t for a few references to chamber pots and a war gone by; on the other hand, you could alienate readers by overpowering your story with unnecessary details and retelling of contemporary events that mean absolutely nothing to the non-historian. Siri does it just right, intertwining the essential historical details with Hannah’s spiritual struggles and her budding relationship with Jeremiah. The story and its historical period naturally can’t be separated, but the details never come across as a history lesson either.
“Prior to reading The Messenger, I read a review from a friend who mentioned that the book didn’t have quite enough romance to satisfy them. Everyone has different levels of romance that they hope for in a novel, and for me, it often depends on who the characters are and what seems appropriate for their stage in life or the period they live in. I really didn’t know what to expect from a Quaker and a crippled war veteran who runs a pub, although I can assure you that I probably couldn’t have come up with a more unlikely couple if I’d tried. Ultimately, I thought that this novel had just the right amount of romance in it. Considering how reserved and standoffish Hannah could be, and Jeremiah’s insecurities about his ability to appeal to a woman in spite of his missing arm, the gentle growth of their relationship seemed entirely appropriate. This isn’t a novel full of passion and swooning, but there were some really touching scenes that showed how the characters had grown to care for each other without the need for any physical declarations of their love for each other. The development of Hannah’s faith was similarly displayed, never overtly preaching at the reader and gently intertwining her questions about her beliefs with the plot of the novel in a way that seemed entirely relevant.
“I recently read an online interview with Siri in which she stated that she likes to take a specific time period or historical event that people claim they’d never want to read a about, and write a compelling novel to convince them otherwise. Honestly, I never would have imagined a novel about a Quaker spy during the Revolutionary War, but she pulls it off. I can’t wait to see what Siri comes up with next. Ultimately, my only slight disappointment with The Messenger was in the ending. The book really sped up towards the conclusion, which made the open ending seem all the more abrupt. I turned the page expecting another chapter or at least an epilogue and felt a bit frustrated that the ending really was so open. It was optimistic, and not in an unrealistic manner considering all that the protagonists had been through, but ultimately it was up to the reader to decide where Hannah and Jeremiah’s relationship would go and what was going to happen to them next. While part of me wants to commend Siri for bravely giving her readers such an open ending, another part of me was just a little bit frustrated that the conclusion was so inconclusive.
“Coming into the genre of Christian fiction a bit late in the day, I’ve sort of dived head first into the plethora of historical and Amish romance novels, grabbing wildly and often missing out on some of the genre’s best authors. When I finished this novel I found myself wondering how I could have been reading Christian historical fiction for two years and not yet discovered Siri Mitchell. The Messenger is an example of all that is good about this genre, and makes me proud to say that I endorse Christian novels. Believable characters, realistic spiritual journeys, heavily researched historical detail and a gentle and understated romance make The Messenger a novel I highly recommend to historical fiction fans.”
–Rachael Ropper, Christian Manifesto
“British forces have occupied Philadelphia, and Colonel Beckwith takes the liberty of occupying Hannah Sunderland’s home. The Sunderlands are Friends (Quakers), but their declaration of neutrality carries no weight with him–especially when the Colonel learns that Hannah’s twin brother has just been jailed after joining the rebels. Although Hannah’s parents abid the Friends’ plicy, Hannah is determined to somehow, secretly visit Robert in jail. This sets her on an extremely dangerous path, as her only chance of success is to get involved with the rebels herself. The suspense is immense, concerning both Hannah’s physical safety and whether she’ll compromise her religious beliefs. An author’s note provides the story’s historical foundation, and in another addendum she explains the Friends’ background and beliefs, plus insight into their present state. She also suggests questions for a discussion group. This engrossing novel is educational as well as a great story. Rating: 4+”
–DKW, Libraries Alive, Summer 2012
Lucy Kendall returns from a tour of the Continent, her luggage filled with the latest fashions and a mind fired by inspiration. After tasting Europe’s best confections, she’s sure she’ll come up with a recipe that will save her father’s struggling candy business and reverse their fortunes. But she soon discovers that their biggest competitor, the cheat who swindled her father out of his prize recipe, has now hired a promotions manager–a cocky, handsome out-of-towner who gets under Lucy’s skin.
Charlie Clarke’s new role at Standard Manufacturing is the chance of a lifetime. He can put some rough times behind him and reconnect with the father he’s never known. The one thing he never counted on, however, was tenacious Lucy Kendall. She’s making his work life miserable…and making herself impossible for him to forget.
Lucy wanted one thing, and that was to save her father’s candy busniess. Charlie Clark’s father wanted Charlie to do one thing, shut down Lucy’s fathers business. At first, each didn’t know who the other was, but when they found out, the fight began.
Unrivaled is Siri Mitchell at her best. I love this wonderful heartwarming story and I enjoyed reading it very much. The characters are well created and as I kept reading, I felt as though I was living the story right along with them. Charlie and Lucy both wanted to do the best at their job, and working against each other caused a lot of tension, which made the story even more interesting. This is the first story I’ve ever read that focused on a candy making business, and the insight into everything involved was interesting and knowledgeable. Ms. Mitchell sure did her research well and explained it all in a fun and interesting way.
Looking for a really good, unique read? Grab a copy of Unrivaled. You will not be disappointed!
SIRI MITCHELL
Siri Mitchell is the author of nearly a dozen novels, among them the critically acclaimed Christy Award finalists “Chateau of Echoes” and “The Cubicle Next Door”. A graduate of the University of Washington with a degree in business, she has worked in many different levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived in places as varied as Tokyo and Paris. Siri currently lives in the DC-metro area.
Celebrate Unrivaled with Siri Mitchell by entering to win a Kindle Fire and joining her on April 18th for a Facebook Author Chat Party! One “swooning” winner will receive:
A Kindle Fire
Vintage Candy Kit
Unrivaled by Siri Mitchell (one for you and one for a friend!)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 17th. Winner will be announced at the “Unrivaled” Author Chat Facebook Party on 4/18. Connect with Siri, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and chat with readers just like yourself. There will also be gift certificates, books, vintage candy kits, and more!
So grab your copy of Unrivaled and join Siri on the evening of the April 18th for a chance to connect with Siri and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)
Don’t miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 18th!
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Hannah Sunderland felt content in her embrace of the Quaker faith
…until her twin brother ran off and joined the army and ended up captured and in jail. Suddenly Hannah’s world turns on end. She longs to bring her brother some measure of comfort in the squalid, frigid prison where he remains. But the Quakers believe they are not to take sides, not to take up arms. Can she sit by and do nothing while he suffers?
Jeremiah Jones has an enormous task before him. Responsibility for a spy ring is now his, and he desperately needs access to the men in prison, whom they are seeking to free. A possible solution is to garner a pass for Hannah. But while she is fine to the eye, she holds only disdain for him–and agreeing would mean disobeying those she loves and abandoning a bedrock of her faith.
With skill and sensitivity, Mitchell tells a story of two unlikely heroes seeking God’s voice, finding the courage to act, and discovering the powerful embrace of love.
If you would like to read the first chapter of The Messenger, go HERE.
My Thoughts on this Book!
I will post a review in a few days when I finish reading this book!
splashesofjoy 